PARSIPPANY — As my tenure as mayor of Parsippany draws to a close at the end of this month, I look back and reflect on what an honor it has been over these past four years to be your mayor. It’s been a privilege to lead the community I have called home for 20 years.
I look back on my time in the office with joy andaccomplishment. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic downturn, myadministration fed hundreds of families with food every week. I got to see the faces of appreciation, and know that the work we did made a difference in families’ lives.
For public safety, we outfitted our policedepartment with body cams, erected a state-of-the-art communication tower, and worked to get the force accredited.
For economic development and eco-responsibility, we completed the township’s first Master Plan since 1976. We re-entered the Highlands Council, and for the first time in township history, achieved bronze status in environmental stewardship through Sustainable Jersey. We implemented a plastic bag ban, which the state has now adopted, and we’re exploring new solar paneling and efficiency standards for our sewers and wastewater treatment.
We embraced Parsippany’s rich diversity through celebration. We raised the Indian flag in honor of Indian Independence Day, brought back the July 4th fireworks in 2021, raised the Italian flag for the Italian Food & Cultural Festival, and raised the pride flag for the entire month of June.
We looked to build the largest park in Parsippany with the nearly completed acquisition of the Kosut property and assisted in the groundbreaking of the Boonton Reservoir Trails project, both of which will open up incredible open space and passiverecreation opportunities for residents. We secured funds to beautify North Beverwyck Road and rebuild the Lake Hiawatha Library.
I will soon rejoin the ranks of a private citizen, and as such I wish my successor the best of luck in his term ahead. I hope he does everything he can to honor all Parsippany residents and is guided by doing what’s right for this community. Whatever political ideology you ascribe to, one thing we can all agree on: Parsippany truly is The Place To Be.
I will leave Town Hall with my head held high, reminded each and every day how many residents have touched my life, and how many memories I have made here. While this chapter may close, for now, I promise I will continue to be an activemember of our township. When I became an elected public servant, it changed me. The desire to help my neighbors live their best lives has become a deeply personal pursuit, and I hope each and every one of you can join me in that pursuit for all of us. When our community works together as a team, asneighbors, as friends, I believe that anything and everything is possible.
Ralph Waldo Emerson said “Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you and give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.”
Thank you, Parsippany. May God continue to bless you all.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, December 2020. Click here for the full version.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Italian American Police Society of NJ hosted a Holiday Party for hundreds of children and volunteers from Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Northern New Jersey at the Parsippany Police Athletic League. Santa and Mrs. Claus joined officers to provide toys, gifts, pizza, and gift cards to children in single-parent families.
The Society, founded in 1987, is comprised of more than four thousand local, county, state, and federal law enforcement officers of Italian ancestry. The Society holds several charitable and social events each year and is the state’s largest ethnic law enforcement organization.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany resident Judy Hernandez was one of the newest members to join the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. Club member Frank Cahill sponsored Judy into the club.
Club President Connie Keller said “Kiwanis is something so good that each of us loves to share it. What better way to show our love for our club and our community than to welcome a new member to our club? Today we’re very pleased to welcome Judy to our club. We welcome Judi to our global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.
Judy Hernandez is a 21-year resident of Parsippany living in Glacier Hills with her husband and two children. Her professional experience is as a civil and environmental engineer and environmental advocate. Judy has worked on projects from the proposal, contract, and planning stages to design and construction. She has also sat on Parsippany’s Open Space Committee. Currently, she serves as Vice-Chair on the Parsippany Environmental Advisory Committee and is a member of the Parsippany Green Team. Judy is also involved in her neighborhood association on the civic committee.
Kiwanis Lt. Governor Frank Cahill pins new member Judy Hernandez
The New Jersey District of Kiwanis International currently has 80 active Kiwanis Clubs, with a total of 1395 members. Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany has a total of 70 active members.
During the pandemic, Kiwanis ‘Feeding our Neighbors” has distributed over 358,400 pounds of food, to 8,980 families, over 17,000 children with a retail value of over $600,000. The next food distribution is scheduled for Saturday, January 22. Any resident that needs food can register at kiwanishelps.org. The registration is 100% confidential and is used to make sure we have enough food at each location. Other locations include Roxbury, Rockaway, Livingston, South Orange, and Maplewood.
“Kiwanis Feeding our Neighbors” was started in December 2019 by Kiwanis Club of Greater Roxbury President Cain Pope and has spread to many Morris County Kiwanis Club and other clubs in New Jersey as far away as Asbury Park, South Orange, Maplewood, Clifton, and Bridgewater.
Kiwanis does not ask for proof of income. The only thing we ask for is name, email address, the town of residence, and the number of children. The information is 100% confidential and is used to make sure we have a sufficient supply of food at each location and for informing the public of future food distributions. We are always looking for donations to support this operation. Click here to make a donation.
“Kiwanis club members believe in service,” said Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Connie Keller. “They care about children. They’re interested in the community around them because the community matters to them. They’re people like you. Friends. Neighbors. Volunteers who want to make a difference.”
Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. It is not religious-based or partisan in any way.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany supports ten K-Kids clubs, Lake Parsippany Elementary School, Eastlake Elementary School, Intervale School, Mt. Tabor Elementary School, Littleton Elementary School, Lake Hiawatha Elementary School, Troy Hills Elementary School, Northvail Elementary School, Knollwood School, and Rockaway Meadow Elementary School, two builders clubs, Central Middle School and Brooklawn Middle School; two Key Clubs, Parsippany Hills High School and Parsippany High School and one Aktion Club.
Interested in learning more about the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, contact President Connie Keller. Click here to view the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany website.
PARSIPPANY — Nikolajs Grinvalds of Lake Hiawatha has been named to the Elmira College Dean’s List for the Fall 2021 Term. Full-time undergraduate students registered for at least 12 computable credit hours and earning a term grade point average of 3.6 or higher at the end of Term I or Term II are placed on the Dean’s List at the College.
Founded in 1855, Elmira College is a private, residential, liberal arts college offering 35-plus majors, an honors program, 17 academic honor societies, and 20 Division III varsity teams. Located in the Southern Finger Lakes Region of New York, Elmira’s undergraduate and graduate student population hails from more than 20 states and nine countries. Elmira is a Phi Beta Kappa College and has been ranked a top college, nationally, for student internships.
The College is also home to the Center for Mark Twain Studies, one of four historically significant Twain heritage sites in the U.S., which attracts Twain scholars and educators from around the world for research on the famous literary icon. Proud of its history and tradition, the College is committed to the ideals of community service, and intellectual and individual growth.
PARSIPPANY — Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce’s bill to increase annual payments to blind and other wartime-service disabled veterans unanimously passed the full Assembly on Monday.
Under the bill (A2559), service members in programs for blind and paralyzed veterans would receive an annual assistance increase to $1,800 from $750.
“The amount given to disabled veterans through these programs has not changed in 40 to 50 years. They earned these annual payments by sacrificing life and limb in selfless service to our country. This increase recognizes their lives were forever changed during the war,” DeCroce (R-Morris) said.
Veterans, who sustained a total loss of sight, are permanently paralyzed in a part of their body, lost a limb through amputation, disease, or an accident as a result of service, and their surviving spouses, are currently entitled to an annual sum of $750, which is paid out monthly.
“Now is an especially appropriate time to pass this bill as consumers face rising costs of food, gas, and everyday goods,” DeCroce said. “It is a small way to extend our gratitude to service members and helps them make ends meet.”
As of March 2021, there were 185 blind and otherwise disabled veterans receiving an allowance under the Blind Veterans’ Allowance Program and the Paraplegic and Hemiplegic Veterans’ Allowance Program. Some veterans may be eligible for both allowance payments.
The last increase for blind veterans was in 1971. The payment under the program for paralyzed veterans has not changed since 1981.
PARSIPPANY — The Township Council presented a “Certificate of Appreciation” to outgoing Council members Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson.
Peterson and McCarthy did not seek re-election and their term ends on December 31, 2021.
They will be replaced by two Republicans, Justin Musella, and Frank Neglia.
The swearing-in of Negia and Musella along with Mayor-Elect James Barberio will be held on Saturday, January 1 at 12:00 Noon at the Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. The event is open to the public. Masks are required.
PARSIPPANY — In the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Chambers, on Monday, December 20, 2021, Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Captain James Carifi held a press conference after settling with the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills for 1 Million Dollars, in a case that was originally filed in 2011.
Christopher Deininger, Esq. congratulates Former Captain James Carifi on the One Million Dollar settlement
The sum of $550,000 was paid out through two Township insurance carriers, Morris County Municipal Joint Insurance Fund and Garden State Municipal Joint Fund. Approximately $368,000 for unused leave balances owed to Carifi, and the remaining (approximately) $82,000 was paid by the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.
Current Mayor Michael Soriano and former Mayor (and Mayor-elect) James Barberio did not attend the hearing. Prior to the hearing, in a closed-door meeting, Mayor Michael Soriano presented Carifi with a letter in good standing, a retirement badge, and a retirement ID card. Press was not permitted to attend the meeting.
In a 2011 whistleblower claim, Carifi claimed the Barberio Administration, along with then-Police Chief Michael Peckerman, had conspired against him because he reported improper activities within the department.
As a result, his lawsuit alleged, he was transferred and denied a promotion, resulting in his 2013 retirement.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council unanimously passed a Resolution (R2021-165) on November 23, 2021.
Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Captain James Carifi holding a letter in good standing, a retirement badge, and a retirement ID card.
“This is an important day for the township, for Captain James Carifi, and his family,” Soriano wrote. “I want to congratulate Captain Carifi on his career of service to our community. Our township owes him a debt of gratitude, and I’m happy to acknowledge the work he’s done for Parsippany. Thank you, Captain Carifi, and I wish you all the very best.”
Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Captain James Carifi delivered the following speech during the press conference:
Today’s announcement and delayed vindication demonstrate that truth and justice always prevail over corruption and coverups, even if it is nearly nine years later.
My good name has been cleared and my status as a law-abiding, law enforcement official is solidly in place through this settlement. I am relieved to be moving forward and putting an end to this difficult time in my life.
Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Captain James Carifi held a press conference after settling with the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills for 1 Million Dollars, in a case that was originally filed in 2011.
This settlement should serve as a strong message and stark warning to the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the incoming Barberio administration to stop their political witch-hunt campaigns of burying truthful reports of police corruption and punishing the honorable employees who report wrongdoing and do right by the community and taxpayers.
Had the MCPO acted ethically and taken action to investigate the wrongdoing I reported as opposed to burying information to protect political people, the taxpayers could have avoided this costly process.
During my long, arduous cases, the MCPO continuously buried substantiated information and looked the other way to misconduct within a police department. The MCPO buried information when they were made aware of a former Parsippany Police Chief who submitted a false certification to a Superior Court Judge that a Parsippany Police Officer was using the “Ashley Madison-Life is Short Have an Affair” website for political purposes, when in fact there was never an investigation into this website. The documents are here to prove it. (Click here to read related articles.)
But the audacity of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office doesn’t stop there. Prosecutors then tried to suppress a municipal judge’s probable cause finding against a former Parsippany Police Chief for Official Misconduct for withholding documents that were required to be released to the public. These documents would have shown specific cover-ups. Again, the MCPO went against their sworn duty to abide by the Court’s probable cause finding and looked the other way.
Next, two years after I retired, I was served on Christmas Eve with bogus disciplinary charges from the Parsippany Police Department under the direction of the Barberio administration. The Hearing Officer that was hired by the Township to hear this matter was told informally that he was not going to be paid unless he ruled in the Township’s favor. Thankfully the hearing officer did not succumb to this threat and ruled in my favor, based on the evidence. Several years later, after Barberio was voted out of office, the Hearing Officer wrote to Mayor Soriano asking to be paid for his services, which had been denied payment for almost two years by the Barberio Administration. Not only did the Barberio Administration threaten this Hearing Officer, but they also followed through with the threat by refusing to pay him. Again, when this information was brought to the MCPO they chose to bury it and take no action. (Click here to read document)
Moving forward, incoming and current Parsippany council members must stop tolerating a Mayor who abuses his or her power to wrongly prey upon principled employees who stand up for what is right.
To put into proper context the extent of the Morris County Prosecutors went into suppressing evidence and abandoning their sworn commitment to uphold the law, I have all of the supportive documentation for your review and reference.
With that being said, I am grateful to finally receive vindication for the attempts to smear my reputation, attempts to bring false charges against me, and attempts to prevent receipt of my pension. I want to thank the entire police pension board for unanimously voting in my favor and for their comments to the township attorney that he should be ashamed of himself for playing politics with my pension.
I can’t adequately thank my family enough for supporting me during this entire ordeal, especially my mother who did not live to see this day but now can rest in peace with this settlement outcome. Thanks to my entire legal team and some of the members of the Parsippany Police Department who maintained their integrity in spite of their fear of political retaliation and did not let that dissuade them from providing truthful testimony. I truly appreciate my loyal and dedicated friends who stood by me and encouraged me to continue to fight until justice prevailed.
As painstaking as this ordeal was, I hope my case serves as an inspiration to all dedicated employees elsewhere who stand up to corruption and do not give up no matter how ugly the journey gets. The truth will always prevail – this settlement and this badge prove it.
Carifi’s attorney Christopher Deininger, Esq., attended the press conference and answered questions of reporters
MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Murphy signed legislation (S-2559) that extends for the next two years the requirement adopted at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic that health benefits plans reimburse health care providers for telehealth and telemedicine services at the same rate as in-person services, with limited exceptions. At the same time, the legislation charges the Department of Health with conducting an in-depth study of the utilization of telehealth and telemedicine and its effects on patient outcomes, quality and satisfaction, and access to care in order to inform future decisions on payment structure for these services. This legislation will provide critical support to patients and providers while the State continues to address the challenges posed by the pandemic, and while the Department of Health evaluates how to best leverage payment and telemedicine to improve access to affordable care and maintain the highest quality of care possible.
“Telehealth and telemedicine services have been critical during the COVID-19 pandemic and will stay with us long after the pandemic is over,” said Governor Murphy. “New Jerseyans have greater access to the health care they need with the proliferation and expansion of these services, and with this legislation, we are ensuring that this new technology can remain viable as we emerge from the pandemic while also ensuring that New Jersey remains at the forefront of innovative health care policy that serves all New Jerseyans.”
“Throughout this pandemic, telemedicine has been a lifeline to vital health care services for many—especially those in underserved communities,” said Department of Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli.”The Department will thoroughly assess the impact of pay parity in telehealth and telemedicine services and make thoughtful recommendations for the future.”
“In response to the pandemic, the state put in place measures to increase access to telehealth to ensure patients could visit a doctor or other medical provider remotely to receive care,” said Department of Banking and Insurance Commissioner Marlene Caride. “Telehealth remains a vital access point for health care, and this law continues to provide that access to residents while creating a process for the state to assess how the policy is working and to allow for any needed changes. This is a meaningful change that will assist residents in getting the health care they need, with the flexibility to visit a health care provider remotely from their own homes.”
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood announce the hiring of Robert J. Gross, Jr. as Assistant Prosecutor for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
Assistant Prosecutor Gross was officially sworn in by First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood at the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office on December 20. Assistant Prosecutor Gross will be assigned to the Specialized Services Unit.
Assistant Prosecutor Gross began his legal career as a law clerk in 2019 for Judge Peter F. Bariso, Jr. at the Superior Court of New Jersey, 6th Vicinage in Jersey City. He served as an assistant prosecutor at the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Juvenile Unit from 2020 until starting with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. He has held internships and externships with the Exxon Mobil Corporation, Centre County Court of Common Pleas in Pennsylvania, Warren County Prosecutor’s Office, New Jersey Office of the Attorney General Division of Criminal Justice-Appellate Bureau, and the New York County District Attorney’s Office-Investigations Division-Rackets Bureau.
He also volunteered with the Penn State Law Veteran’s Clinic. Assistant Prosecutor Gross holds a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Pennsylvania State University, paralegal certification from Georgetown University, and a Juris Doctorate from Penn State Law. Prosecutor Carroll said, “I believe Assistant Prosecutor Gross will make a fine addition to our prosecutorial team.”
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Republican Chairwoman Laura Marie Ali applauded the Board of Commissioners for its selection of Tayfun Selen (Chatham Township) as Commission Director and John Krickus (Washington Township) as Deputy Director to lead the County in 2022.
“Tayfun Selen and John Krickus will be a dynamic, fiscally conservative leadership team for Morris County government over the next 12 months and will continue to hold the line on taxes, invest in infrastructure, and lead our county’s recovery from the pandemic. They represent the very best of our party,” said Chairwoman Ali. “Tayfun, in particular, has been a part of three straight budgets that avoided property tax increases at the local and county levels.”
Ali said that the 2022 leadership team was unanimously supported at the annual caucus, and Morris County Republican leadership has been integral in making Morris the state’s number one County and the best place to live in all of New Jersey. Last June, major financial rating agencies including Moody’s and S&P Global again awarded their highest-possible “AAA” rating to Morris County, continuing a legacy as one of the best financially-run counties in America.
Tayfun Selen is a proven fiscal conservative, experienced businessman, and American success story. Selen immigrated from Turkey with a degree in architecture in 1996, pumping gas and working entry-level jobs before earning an MBA and his CPA license. He earned his U.S. citizenship in 2008 and managed major corporate real estate operations leading over 100 employees and several hundred million dollar budgets. Today, he is an executive with a major national vocational school group.
Selen previously served as Chatham Township Mayor, and later filled a vacancy on the Morris County Commission and earned a full-term in 2020.
Tayfun is married with one daughter and has lived in Morris County for the past 23 years, including 19 years in the Chathams.
John Krickus will be starting his third three-year term on the board. He is a member of the Budget Committee producing three straight years of no county tax increase and the Strategic Planning Advisory Committee that has been key to maintaining the County’s AAA finance rating during the pandemic. He also is the liaison to the Morris County Improvement Authority, the County College of Morris and Morris County School of Technology, and the Chamber of Commerce/Economic Development.
Commissioner Krickus served as a Marine Corps veteran and a graduate of Drew University with a BA in Economics and Political Science. He received his MBA from Lehigh University and was a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in New Jersey.
Previously, he served on the Washington Township Committee for 12 years, including three years as Mayor. Born and raised in Madison, he now lives in Long Valley with his wife Carolyn.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners unveiled a $67,242,800 million capital spending plan that expands educational programs at the Morris County School of Technology, while aggressively investing in improvements to county roads, intersections, bridges, and culverts.
The board’s Capital Budget Committee, which includes Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw, Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo, and Commissioner Tayfun Selen, outlined the plan during a work session, additionally pointing to funds earmarked for public safety, public health, parks, and improving information technology.
“This capital plan contains $14 million to resurface 25.6 miles of roads in 15 towns, $2.8 million to improve key intersections and dedicates nearly $7 million so that Morris County will continue to lead the state with its bridge and culvert upgrades,” said Commissioner Director Shaw.
“This plan also makes good on the commitment our board made this past summer for a 30 percent expansion of the Morris County Vocational School with a new Career Technical Education Center, as well as an investment in the continuing expansions and improvements at the County College of Morris,” Shaw added.
The 2022 Capital Spending Highlights Include:
Improving our County Road Network
$2.8 in Intersection Upgrades, including:
Flanders Netcong Road and Main Street Intersection with Route 206, Mount Olive
Boonton Avenue at Taylortown Road, Montville Township
Guide Rail Upgrades and Installations throughout the County
$14.0 million for roadway resurfacing, including:
2.2 miles of Fairmount Road in Washington Township
2.2 miles of Green Pond Road in Rockaway and Jefferson Townships
2.5 miles of Park Avenue from Columbia Turnpike to Route 124 in Madison, Florham Park, and Morris Township
2.5 miles of Village Road in Harding Township
$6.83 million for bridge and culverts projects, including:
Dickson’s Mill Road Bridge in Harding Township
Pleasant Hill Road Bridge in Mount Olive
Commitment to Education:
$25.3 million for the School of Technology’s construction of its new Career Technical Education Center at the County College of Morris and Science Lab upgrades with $18.8 million coming from a State Grant
$5.2 million at the County College for facility accessibility upgrades and Academic Complex roof replacementHurd Street Bridge in Mine Hill Township
Other 2021 Capital Spending Highlights Include:
$1.9 million for Information Technology Upgrades and Improvements
$1.7 million for the Morris County Park System
$4.1 million for 451 new voting machines to comply with new voting laws
$1 million for Public Safety Enhancements
$550,000 for County Owned Railroad Upgrades
$366,000 for Health Management and Mosquito Control
The slide show presented by the Capital Budget Committee may be viewed by clicking here.
The $67.2 million plan reflects a commitment of $36,875,294 million by the county, which will be offset by an anticipated $30,367,506 million in grants.
Morris County government has a massive and diverse inventory of responsibilities, ranging from the Morris County Administration Building in Morristown to Human Services and Law & Public Safety complexes in Morris Township and Parsippany. The infrastructure includes:
287 miles of county roads in all 39 Morris County municipalities
1,000 bridges and culverts throughout all Morris County municipalities
3 Freight Railroads
1,185 vehicles and or pieces of equipment used by various county agencies
3.3 million square feet of buildings and structures
The County of Morris also is responsible for:
Maintaining all trees within county road rights-of-way
Facilities required by the Judiciary, Sheriff, Law and Public Safety
Mosquito Control services throughout all Morris County
MORRIS COUNTY — Melissa Florance-Lynch announced her candidacy for Morris County Commissioner as she will join the ticket with Commissioners Doug Cabana and Tom Mastrangelo.
“I am very excited to both announce my candidacy for Morris County Commissioner and to join the ticket with Commissioners Doug Cabana and Tom Mastrangelo. As a lifelong resident of Pequannock Township and as someone who has taken a very active role in our community, I know there is a lot of work that needs to be done to continue to maintain the high quality of living that Morris County residents have come to expect and enjoy. My promise to Morris County is to continue to fight to keep taxes low, improve our parks, preserve open space, and support our law enforcement community to keep our communities safe. I look forward to speaking with the voters of Morris County to earn your vote to serve as the next Morris County Commissioner,” said Florance-Lynch. Florance-Lynch brings significant experience to the Mastrangelo, Cabana, Florance-Lynch ticket as she has:
• Served 11 years on Pequannock Town Council and two years as Mayor
• Is a successful Broker Associate / Sales Manager of Local Real Estate Firm
• Serves on Multiple Township Committees and Boards as Council Liaison
• A Member of Pequannock Valley Rotary, Pequannock Chamber of Commerce, Suburban Woman’s Club of Pompton Plains
“Morris County is very fortunate to have someone that is of the caliber of Melissa Florance-Lynch seeking the opportunity to serve on the Morris County Board of Commissioners. She has been successful in stabilizing municipal taxes, making improvements to parks, has been instrumental with flood mitigation projects such as FEMA house elevations, and working to significantly advance critical water and sewer projects in Pequannock. Melissa’s love of public service is infectious, and we are very excited to both welcome and work with Melissa as our running mate as we begin our campaign for the Morris County Board of Commissioners,” stated Cabana and Mastrangelo.
MORRIS COUNTY — Commissioner Kathy DeFillippo, who has served on the Morris County Board of Commissioners since 2014, announced she will not seek re-election alongside her long-time running mates Doug Cabana and Tom Mastrangelo.
“After talking to Doug, Tom, and my family, I have decided to step back from elected office and to devote myself to my growing family and my other personal priorities,” DeFillippo explained. “It was not an easy decision. Serving the people of Morris County on the Board of Commissioners has been a great honor. I know I am leaving the Board in good hands with the exceptional leadership of the current Commissioners, including my running mates Doug Cabana and Tom Mastrangelo, who continue to have my support and warm regard. “I am most proud of leaving a legacy of strengthening the County’s Human Services, especially for seniors, veterans, and women and children in need,” DeFillippo said.
“At the same time, we were also successful in keeping taxes low, preserving open space, and ensuring Morris County remains an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family.” During her eight years on the County Commission, DeFillippo served as its Director for two years, in 2015 and 2016. She also serves as Chair of the Board of North Jersey Transportation Authority (NJTPA), where she has been a Board Member since 2014, representing Morris County. DeFillippo has also served on the Council and as Mayor of the Township of Roxbury.
“Kathy will be sorely missed. Both as a good friend and as a colleague on the Board. Her leadership, experience, and vision cannot be overstated. Kathy is the gold standard for public service. We thank Kathy for her service and wish her nothing but the very best now and into the future,” stated Commissioners Doug Cabana and Tom Mastrangelo.
PARSIPPANY — For a decade, the Friendship Club of Temple Beth Am, a seniors ages 50+ group, ran flawlessly. It met approximately 10 times per year with many different style programs such as in-house lunch/speaker groups, going to Duke Gardens, theater trips, museum visits, movies, going out to restaurants and so many more activities too numerous to mention. It was never difficult to participate because it was a happy, friendly group that enjoyed being together. Then, almost two years ago something unheard of happened – Covid. For almost two years, our biggest activity was trying to remain healthy.
Last June, a hopeful past Friendship Club President arranged a Zoom board meeting. Zoom…it took a few and a bit of time to get connected but a meeting began. Could we figure out a way in this present day and age to get the Friendship Club started again? Would the Friendship Club be able to resume? We all looked at each other on the screen. One of the first Presidents of the Friendship Club from over a decade ago raised her hand and said ” Will everyone on this board remain in office? I’ll take the presidency if you stay on.” The Friendship Club of Temple Beth Am now had a full board, and ideas and thoughts began flying across the computer screen. We knew we needed some advance notice to publicize an event, what could we do in this covid environment? With a strong board, they met the challenge like other businesses, Temples, churches, schools, and stores. The group cut the meetings to only five this year. Then they started the year in September with a lovely luncheon in the garden patio at The Villages Restaurant in Morris Plains. The weather was perfect for an outside lunch, and they had many attendees. They were able to get a meeting during November with a speaker on Zero Mostel followed by lunch. The Friendship Club has three future meetings for January, March, and June.
Friendship Club is so happy to be standing strong. For more information, contact Temple Beth Am at (973) 887-0046.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Crime Stoppers celebrated the 35th Anniversary at a dinner at the Birchwood Manor on Monday, December 13.
This Crime Stoppers Program began in 1986 in Morris County and not one person’s identity has ever been compromised. If you feel uncomfortable about reporting a crime, now you have methods where no one will ask your name or want to know who you are. Our new methods of reporting crime or threats include an anonymous phone application and a website submission form. These new methods meet the same privacy criteria that we have been using for over 35 years.
Morris County Crimestopper Commissioner Khaled Madin, Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Municipal Prosecutor Monica MadinMorris County Sheriff James Gannon receiving a plaque from Morris County Crime Stoppers Chairman John Sette
Honored for their achievements were the Morristown Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff’s department. Presenting the awards was Chairman of the Crime Stoppers, John Sette. Sheriff Jim Gannon gave a complimentary rich speech regarding the Morristown Police Department.
and Hanover Township Deputy Mayor Thomas “Ace” GallagherParsippany-Troy Hills Mayor-elect James Barberio with Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Clerk Khaled Madin. Madin is also a Commissioner for Morris County Crime StoppersParsippany-Troy Hills Councilman-elect Justin Musella, Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen, and Parsippany Republican Club Chairman Dr. Louis ValoriPar-Troy Little League East President Chris Mazzarella with Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr.Delores dePierro with Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Michael dePierro
PARSIPPANY — In recognition of academic performance, the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs at the University of the Cumberlands has announced the students named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2021 semester.
To be eligible for the Dean’s List, students must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours (a full course load), maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.50, and be in good academic standing.
Hailey Budney of Lake Hiawatha was named to the Dean’s List.
The University of the Cumberlands is one of the largest and most affordable private universities in Kentucky. Located in Williamsburg, Kentucky, Cumberlands is an institution of regional distinction offering quality undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and online degree programs. Learn more at ucumberlands.edu.
MORRIS COUNTY — A capacity crowd of countywide law enforcement officials, elected representatives, family, and friends, assembled at the Park Savoy Estates in Florham Park on December 14 where State Senator for New Jersey’s 25th District, Anthony M. Bucco, was awarded the prestigious, “Honorary Chief of the Morris County Police Chief’s Association” designation and plaque.
Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Senator Anthony Bucco, and Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. CarrollAnthony M. Bucco was awarded the prestigious, “Honorary Chief of the Morris County Police Chief’s Association” designation and plaque
The recipient of this annual honor is chosen only after thoughtful consideration, and as Sheriff Gannon stated, “it is not given out lightly.” Interestingly, the recipient of the Association’s first “Honorary Chief” award was the late Senator Anthony R. Bucco’s, Senator Anthony R. Bucco’s father.
Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn preceded the presentation with congratulatory comments recognizing the Senator’s achievements, the award was then presented by Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon; Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll; Commissioner Stephen H. Shaw; and Chief of Police Jeffrey Almer; currently the President of the Association.
Stephen Beecher with Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw
Bucco was highly praised for his ongoing commitment to law enforcement throughout his tenure both as an Assemblyman and Senator. The Senator’s acceptance speech was met with a lengthy standing ovation.
Also recognized during the ceremonies was the Association’s 2021 President and Chief of the Mount Olive Police Department, Stephen Beecher. The Chief, whose late father Stephen was also a police officer, was recognized for his continuous efforts towards building positive relationships within his community, as well as for his recognition of the historical problems associated with racial justice, his willingness to listen to innovative ideas, and his recognition of the need for reform and improvement when needed. During his acceptance speech, Beecher also recognized his Mayor and Council members, who were in attendance, and of course, his family, for all their cooperation and support during his tenure as Chief.
The ceremonial portion of the luncheon concluded with the installation of the Association’s new 2022 Executive Board.
Mendham Township Chief of Police Ross Johnson – Vice President
Mount Arlington Chief of Police Edward LaBruno – Sergeant at Arms
Wharton Borough Chief of Police David Young – Treasurer
Morris Plains Chief of Police Michael Koroski- Secretary
The Chiefs Association’s mission involves securing and improving unity of action in all public safety matters and elevating the standards of the police profession among its members and the greater law enforcement community. It also attempts to advance the skills, techniques, and training of its members and subordinates, promote greater efficiency and effectiveness in the law enforcement profession and ensure that efforts at preventing crime, detecting crime, and prosecuting crime are improved.
PARSIPPANY — Santa arrived at the Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire Department 5 on Sunday, December 12.
Parsippany Focus publisher Frank Cahill, Santa, Ildiko Peluso, and Robert PelusoAlessandra Umana, Camila Tasso, Rafaella Tasso and Daniel UmanaBrian Ricci, Santa and Nicole CalabreseRobert Peluso, Santa, Ildiko Peluso, and Robert PelusoMayor Elect James Barberio talks to SantaSanta
PARSIPPANY — Scouts BSA Troop 173 of Parsippany participated in the annual Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots toy drive.
Troop 173 collected over 120 toys that, along with others collected by Scouts in Patriots Path Council, will be distributed to needy children of all ages during the holiday season. Troop 173 has served youth in the Parsippany area since 1957, and participates in many community and conservation service projects.
In addition to participating in the Toys for Tots toy drive, the members of Troop 173 have recently held food drives, coat collections, built bat houses, helped clean up Troy Meadows, and served the community in many other activities.
The Township Council presented a “Certificate of Appreciation” to outgoing Council members Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson.
