Parsippany First Team Kick-Off was a Huge Success

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Parsippany First Team Kick-Off was a Huge Success

PARSIPPANY — The team of “Parsippany First,” Dr. Louis Valori for Mayor, Justin Musella, and Gary Martin for Township Council, held a kick-off event on Thursday, April 22 at Elmas Turkish and Mediterranean Cuisine.

0The “Parsippany First” team is being challenged by Former Mayor James Barberio, Board of Education members Frank Neglia and Deborah Orme. Neglia and Orme are seeking the Republican Council bid along with former Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President Robert Peluso.

The winner in the Primary Election to be held on Tuesday, June 8 will challenge Mayor Michael Soriano and his Council candidates Judy Hernandez and Cori Herbig in the General Election on Tuesday, November 2.

Barberio, who lost to Democratic incumbent Michael Soriano in 2017, is seeking his old seat. So is former Council Vice President Robert Peluso, who lost his primary bid to unseat Barberio the same year.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Candidate Justin Musella

Justin Musella opened his speech to a sold-out crowd (unfortunately due to COVID-19 restrictions there was a limit on the number of guests) “I’m overwhelmed and deeply humbled at the outpouring of support I’ve witnessed tonight. We’re gathered here tonight for our kick-off. I am positive we will be gathered again on June 8 when we celebrate our primary victory! I greatly appreciate the unwavering support and your new friendships from all I’ve spoken to.”

“We’ve been working hard at this for some time now, and having spoken to hundreds of residents, I know three things to be true:

  1. People are tired of politics as usual. They want fighters who advocate for our residents and township as a whole, not just the connected special interest groups and entrenched individuals.
  2. The high hopes people had for the administration of four years ago have been shattered since Mayor Soriano’s failed policies are directly responsible for Parsippany’s problems of today.
  3. Residents want to see a fundamental change on Township Council with new blood, bold ideas, and innovative ways of thinking as to how we can better serve the public.”

We will stand up for what we believe will improve the Township at large and bring discipline and efficiency back to municipal government. And we aren’t waiting to be elected to serve; we are already raising awareness that residents have a clear option to re-establish Parsippany to be the great place it once was to live, play, and do business.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Candidate Gary Martin

Gary Martin ticked off some of his past heroes – Douglas MacArthur, JFK, Frank Sinatra. But now, he said, his only heroes are the people he wants to represent.

Martin said he is a former Democrat, which explains the JFK reference, and that it was the late Dean Gallo who convinced him to become a Republican.

Whatever happens in the June 8 primary, Valori said he will support the Republican ticket this fall. As he said, “This town really needs some major changes.”

Current Council members Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson declined to run for reelection. Soriano is running unopposed for reelection in the Democratic primary with new council candidates Cori Herbig and Judy Hernandez. Herbig and Hernandez ran unsuccessfully for Township Council in the 2019 election.

Musella standing next to one of the team’s campaign signs

Interview with Parsippany Football Club Player: Mahadye Paniahie

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Interview with Parsippany Football Club Player: Mahadye Paniahie

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Football Club Profiles: This month’s spotlight is on another Parsippany Local and Parsippany High Alumni: Mahadye Paniahie

1. What High School did you attend and what class?

A. Parsippany High School, Class of 2014. I only played one full year of Soccer (11th Grade).

Mahadye Paniahie

2. What college did you attend and what did you major in?

A. I went to County College of Morris and played for two years. I then went to William Paterson for one year and played football. I studied communications.

3. For what youth clubs did you play for?

A. I played for the Parsippany Soccer Club, Iron Bound, and NY Red Bulls Academy.

4. Most memorable moment as a player?

That’s difficult; I have many but that last free-kick I scored for our us (PFC) was probably one of my best free-kicks I’ve ever taken, it might be my favorite moment.

5. Your favorite player growing up?

A. Cristiano Ronaldo. Lives for big moments and when it’s time to deliver, he does, he believes in himself before others do.

6. What’s your hometown?

A. Parsippany is home for me and my family.

7. What national team would you play for if/when given the opportunity?

A. The USA. I think it would be great to play for a nation that’s building up its reputation and recognition around the world. The fact that we are a very diverse nation makes it even better because I’m Muslim, and I’m not sure if there are many Muslims on the national team yet.

8. How often did you train as a kid?

A. Not much. I didn’t play competitive soccer until 13. I played for a B team in Parsippany, then had a stint at Ironbound, and then went to NY Red Bull Academy. A whole new experience for me because I went from playing low level to the highest of levels as a youth player.

9. One thing you would tell your younger self?

A. I would tell my younger self to train and remain focused. As we get older, we don’t remain as determined & focused on our goals. And more weight lifting.

10. Favorite team?

A. None, I just enjoy sports overall.

11. Position and preferred number?

A. My natural position has been CAM and my favorite number is ten. I am a player that creates all game long.

12. Who is your biggest inspiration?

A. My Father. His work ethic, his ambition, to put his family in a better position. From leaving Afghanistan and being alone here, he never quit.

The Parsippany Football Club, and Parsippany Soccer – one of America’s most impactful soccer communities. Established in 2020 during one of the most devastating times in world history, PFC was born out of hope to bring back the spirit of ‘The Beautiful Game’ to the community and its people that dates all the way back to the 1970s. This is more than a Club, more than a Game. To find out more about PFC visit the website www.parsippanyfootballclub.com …and as always and forever, Keep on Kicking.

Morris County Acting Prosecutor Swears in New and Rejoined Staff

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Morris County Acting Prosecutor Swears in New and Rejoined Staff

MORRIS COUNTY — Acting Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker announce the hiring of Richard Calo as Detective and Dan Haber to rejoin the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office as Prosecutor’s Agent.

On Monday, April 19, 2021, Acting Prosecutor Carroll and Chief Kimker held a ceremony for the incoming Morris County Prosecutor’s Office staff members.

Detective Calo has been assigned to the General Investigations Unit within the Courts and Administration Division.

During his law enforcement career, Detective Calo has served as a state corrections officer for the New Jersey Department of Corrections, police officer and task force officer on loan to the Firearms Interdiction Team for the Newark Police Department, and security officer for the Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission. Having graduated from the United States Air Force and Naval Construction Battalion Center, he holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Thomas Edison State University.

Prosecutor’s Agent Haber has been assigned to the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit with the Tactical Division.

A former Detective Sergeant, Prosecutor’s Agent Haber served the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office for 16 years in such capacities as the Specialized Crimes Unit – Financial Crimes/Internal Affairs, Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, Major Crimes/Homicide Unit, Fugitive Unit, Missing Persons/Juvenile Unit, and Trial Unit. Prosecutor’s Agent Haber completed several professional development courses and holds various certifications, and has attended three law enforcement academies. He holds a Master of Science degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and a Bachelor of Arts from William Paterson University.

Acting Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Agent Dan Haber, and Chief of Detectives Chris Kimker

How The Pandemic Has Affected Insurance Prices In Parsippany

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
How The Pandemic Has Affected Insurance Prices In Parsippany

PARSIPPANY — The pandemic changed our lives forever in many ways. Throughout the past year, we’ve had to deal with a lot of loss and loneliness. Many have had to deal with job loss and financial issues. However, when not focusing on the pain, there is a lot we can learn about our civilization and society.

One of the fascinating things about the pandemic is how it has impacted industries that are usually quite predictable. The housing industry is one such example. While housing prices work on quite a direct supply/demand basis, it has been near impossible to predict which factors would make houses available and encourage people to buy. Thus, housing markets expected to crash have actually flourished.

Another industry that has proven incredibly complicated is the insurance industry. When it comes to pricing premiums, insurance is usually predictable. Increased risks mean increased premiums. But despite risk having increased dramatically in a number of areas, no types of insurance have seen the correlation you’d normally expect.

Let’s take a look at insurance prices in Parsippany to get an idea of why this is.

Life Insurance in Parsippany

Life insurance is a fascinating place to start. Obviously, the pandemic has increased the risk of death by quite a lot. This increased risk is unlikely to disappear altogether along with the pandemic. After all, thousands of more people are now suffering from chronic lung illnesses.

If insurance companies were dealing with a handful of people with increased risks, they would simply hike those individuals’ premiums. However, the risk has increased throughout Parsippany and the United States.

Hiking the premiums of every single Parsippany resident according to the extent of the risk would have been a form of self-sabotage for the industry. The reality is that many life insurance policies have lapsed due to loss of income and increased health expenses. While this does benefit the life insurance industry to an extent, as they won’t have to pay out those policies, the loss far outweighs it.

Insurance companies have therefore had to be careful with premium increases, as they cannot afford to lose more customers. Furthermore, they’ve had to pay out more insurance claims due to the pandemic, and are scrambling to make up ground. All of these factors have served to keep life insurance prices in Parsippany somewhat stable.

But what about health insurance?

Health Insurance in New Jersey

The health insurance industry has faced similar battles. They have had to pay out a lot of claims due to the pandemic. Many policies have lapsed due to loss of income and loss of jobs (especially for those companies that rely on policies sold to employers). Furthermore, the increased risk of illness on the horizon for the foreseeable future puts the industry at risk of a neverending increase in claims.

They cannot simply hike premiums to cover the risk, as that would only lead to more individuals having to let go of their health insurance. The general public is simply not solvent enough at the moment to ask too much more, even if there is an increased need for health insurance.

For these reasons, health insurance in NJ and Parsippany has remained as affordable (or unaffordable) as before the pandemic. That’s unlikely to change in the near future, but health insurance companies are sure to find a way to take advantage of consumers without losing their patronage.

Homeowners and Renters Insurance in New Jersey

One type of insurance that has mostly avoided the trials and tribulations of COVID-19 is homeowners and renters insurance in NJ. While it is true that customers have been lost to the virus and policies have lapsed due to the financial consequences of the pandemic, the need for property insurance and the risks have not changed much.

Homeowners insurance, in particular, has stayed stable, with very few homeowners willing to risk leaving their homes uninsured, even when they are battling financially. Renters insurance, which covers a renter’s possessions, is less of a sure thing. After all, many renters are battling against eviction, and paying rent is more of a priority than paying for insurance.

Renters insurance in Parsippany has therefore remained at the same prices (and even dropped in some cases). There is no increased risk due to the pandemic, but it is more difficult to pay for.

The insurance industry is usually fairly easy to predict, but the impact of the pandemic has changed that. Now, it remains to be seen how insurance companies will deal with the risks once the country has recovered financially.

New Jersey Right to Life PAC Endorses BettyLou DeCroce for Re-Election

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
New Jersey Right to Life PAC Endorses BettyLou DeCroce for Re-Election

PARSIPPANY — The New Jersey Right to Life (NJRTL) PAC announced today that they are endorsing State Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce for re-election in the 26th Legislative District, calling her one of the strongest pro-life leaders in Trenton for nearly a decade. Assemblywoman DeCroce has been a leading voice in the pro-life fight by:

• Opposing the so-called “Reproductive Freedom Act”, which would eliminate prosecution for infanticide, perhaps the most radical and grotesque pro-abortion bill ever
• Co-Sponsoring the “Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act”, which prohibits abortion after 20 weeks, a time at which medical studies have shown that unborn babies feel pain
• Pushing back against a radical decision by the Board of Medical Examiners to repeal rules that only allow doctors to perform abortions in hospitals or surgery centers
• Spearheaded, as a prime sponsor, the “Born Alive Survivor’s Act” to protect newborn babies who defy the odds and survive an attempted abortion.
• Backs the “Human Trafficking & Child Exploitation Prevention Act” to fight the scourge of the illegal, underground sex trade targeting young children all across the world

“Assemblywoman DeCroce has been a steadfast defender of the unborn and is one of the strongest pro-life voices in our state,” said Tasy, NJRTL PAC Executive Director. “BettyLou isn’t afraid of a fight and she never compromises her values. I urge all pro-life voters to return her to the State Assembly this year.” “As a mother, and a grandmother, I know firsthand that every life is precious and every baby is a gift from God,” said DeCroce. “The radical, pro-abortion movement sweeping the country – and being led by Governor Murphy and the radical liberals in Trenton – is out of control. Now, more than ever, we need people willing to stand up and stop this madness. I am proud to call myself pro-life and honored to have earned this endorsement.”

Letter to the Editor: I support Cori Herbig for Township Council

Letters to the Editor
-
0
Dear Editor:
parsippany focus
I have had the pleasure of being neighbors with Cori Herbig for many years, and I am happy to consider her a friend as well. I support her campaign for Parsippany Township Council.
Cori has dedicated her life to making the world a better place. From keeping families safe from illegal evictions to over a decade fighting animal cruelty at the ASPCA, to protecting our children from gun violence, Cori has always worked to support the world around her. In her current role as the US States Public Policy Director at Mars, she is working to make the planet more sustainable.
I have lived in Parsippany for many years now, choosing this town to raise my family in, and I believe Cori is one of the most qualified individuals to serve on the Town Council. She understands that helping people comes before politics and will always do the right thing, no matter what. Cori is always open to new ideas and will work with the mayor and the rest of the council to address the issue that affects our town. As a mother of two school-age children, I have complete confidence that Cori will do whatever she can to keep Parsippany the best town for my children, as well as every single resident who lives here.
Let’s make the right choice and pick Cori Herbig for Town Council!
Bernadette Berdetta

Letter to the Editor: Soriano’s Facebook Shenanigans

Letters to the Editor
-
0

parsippany focusDear Editor:

I am old enough to remember the controversy during the previous mayoral election that began with the misuse of government money by our former mayor, Jamie Barberio, and that ridiculous mailer sent out right before the election. The criticism that came from the Soriano camp was completely valid in that this kind of behavior was not just unethical, but possibly illegal. I agreed with Soriano then, which is why I am so dismayed to have seen our taxpayer-funded Township of Parsippany Facebook page morph into a propaganda tool by the current administration over the past few years. A cursory look down the Facebook feed of the township and you will find promotional videos of his council candidates and their various doings on in town, such as cleaning up the Troy-Meadows River. While the irony of Soriano and his administration taking its first steps to “clean up Parsippany” during an election year, three years after his election, is not lost on me, it is remarkable just how far he and his administration have fallen.

I also understand that Herbig and Hernandez are involved with our “Green Team” but those are appointed spots by guess-who, the Mayor. He should recognize the possible conflict of interest he has in making them the current focus of Township efforts to get the word out and show residents he is dissimilar from his predecessor. While I am sure what he is doing is not illegal, it is demonstrably unethical and in contrast to his promise of clean local government, and I hope the Township Council takes steps to prevent his misuse of township communications from occurring in the future. What was promised to us was a fresh new approach to local government that would keep our taxes relatively stable while making sure we still received the services that have made Parsippany a place of pride. Instead, it appears that we’re stuck with an elected representative who can only think of costly, innovative ways to hold on to power, no matter the damage.

P.S. Our water bill is out of control, please dedicate more time to ensuring that isn’t something that will force residents to leave.

Jigesh Patel

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – April 6, 2021

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – April 6, 2021

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – April 6, 2021.

High School and College Seniors Offered Vaccinations in Morris County

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
High School and College Seniors Offered Vaccinations in Morris County

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County and Atlantic Health System (AHS) launched an initiative today to encourage graduating high school and college seniors to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in time for in-person graduation ceremonies and family celebrations this spring.

High school and college seniors in Morris County are being urged to schedule appointments now at the Morris County Regional COVID-19 Vaccination Center at the Rockaway Townsquare Mall in Rockaway Township by clicking here, which leads to Atlantic Health System’s website.

“We are grateful for the fast work of our county professionals who organized this important initiative in just a few days. I also want to recognize the extensive expertise Atlantic Health System staff are bringing to the program as they insert appointments for these young men and women into the intricate operations at the busy vaccination center,” said Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw.

“Atlantic Health System is committed to building healthier communities and that includes helping ensure we can all enjoy life’s important moments safely and in good health,” said Kevin Lenahan, Chief Financial and Administrative Officer, Atlantic Health System. “We proudly join our partners in Morris County is strongly encouraging all eligible students to get vaccinated as soon as they can find an available appointment.”

Students can immediately schedule appointments that are available this week at the Vaccination Center, which has been issuing vaccines to about 4,000 people daily. The student appointments will not interfere with any other scheduled appointments. Students under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all vaccination appointments.

“Thanks to the efforts of our healthcare workers and educators, Morris County is a leader in the effort to get our schools reopened,” said Dr. Timothy Purnell, Morris County Executive County Superintendent. “This vaccine deployment is yet another effort to protect the health of our residents, and to get our children back to social interaction and human connection.”

The student vaccination initiative was proposed by John Krickus when he presented vaccination data to the board regarding Morris County, which is leading the state in per-capita inoculations through all the various facilities issuing vaccinations in the county.

Krickus said it is important to create opportunities for student inoculations. It will maximize the ability of educational institutions to resume public high school and college graduation ceremonies and it must be anticipated that friends and families of the graduates will be holding private gatherings.

“We want to give high school seniors and college grads the best chance at having as close to a normal graduation experience as possible. This effort not only protects the students, their families, and their friends during graduation celebrations that inevitably will be held, whether publicly or privately, it also will not affect the supply of vaccine for others in our community who very much need it,” said Commissioner Krickus.

The Commissioner noted the State of New Jersey had already authorized the inoculation of young people over age 16 as of April 19.

The Vaccination Center was opened on January 8 under a partnership with Morris County, Atlantic Health System, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and the State of New Jersey. It is operated by AHS medical professionals and staff from the Morris County law and public safety department, with the assistance of the sheriff’s office.

Help the Munoz Family with Medical Expenses

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Help the Munoz Family with Medical Expenses

PARSIPPANY — Louis Yuliano, Chief of Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, is organizing a GoFundMe to help with unexpected medical and funeral costs of Franco Munoz.

Franco was a hard worker, whose family came to this country from Chile for a better life and to live the American dream.

He was a true family man and would help anyone in need; no questions asked.

He was a dedicated servant, volunteering with Parsippany Rescue and Recovery for twenty years.  He helped so many, and now, he needs our help.

Click here to make a donation.

Rainbow Lakes Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Rainbow Lakes Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony

PARSIPPANY — The Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company (Parsippany Fire District Two), in partnership with the Veteran’s of Rainbow Lakes, is pleased to announce that the annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony will return on Saturday, May 29.

The parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Rainbow Lakes Firehouse, 1 Rainbow Trail, and end at the Rainbow Lakes ball field off Oakdale Road where a memorial service honoring America’s fallen will be held.

Mark your calendar and attend this time-honored event that has been around in Rainbow for several decades.

The parade and the service will go from 10:30 a.m. to roughly 11:45 a.m. The parade and memorial service will follow all current federal, state, and local guidelines regarding COVID-19.

All spectators in attendance are asked to please wear a mask and follow social distancing guidelines.

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 safety concerns, there will be no open house barbecue following the memorial ceremony.

The members of the Rainbow Lakes Fire Company and the Veterans of Rainbow Lakes would look forward to seeing you again, in person, on May 29!

Jump Start Your Future with a CCM Apprenticeship in Advanced Manufacturing

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Jump Start Your Future with a CCM Apprenticeship in Advanced Manufacturing

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) is offering individuals an opportunity to embark on a well-paying career path in advanced manufacturing by taking part in paid on-the-job training through its CareerAdvance USA apprenticeship program.

The first step to becoming an apprentice in the CareerAdvance USA program is to take part in a boot camp to learn the basic skills needed for employment in advanced manufacturing. The boot camp covers all the advanced manufacturing basics and gives students the opportunity to earn college credits over a six- to the nine-week timeframe. Training takes place in the college’s new Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Center, featuring the latest equipment in a high-tech environment.

While the apprenticeship program is offered at no cost, there is a $3,750 fee, plus the purchase of supplies, to take part in the boot camp. There are opportunities for scholarships, funding for those unemployed or underemployed, as well as structured payment options.

It is estimated that over the next decade advanced manufacturing will need to fill 3.4 million jobs with most of those positions being related to the pending retirement of baby boomers. Along with good job prospects, the field pays well with an average starting salary of $45,000 to $65,000 plus benefits after completing an apprenticeship.

If a career in advanced manufacturing interests you, join one of the Virtual Info Sessions to learn how to prepare for an apprenticeship. The sessions take place on Wednesdays. The upcoming sessions are:

  • April 21, 5:00 p.m.
  • May 5, 9:00 a.m.
  • May 26, 12:00 Noon
  • June 9, 5:00 p.m.
  • June 23, 2:00 p.m.
  • July 14, 2:00 p.m.
  • July 28, 5:00 p.m.
  • August 11, 12:00 Noon
  • August 25, 12:00 Noon

To learn more about CCM’s advanced manufacturing apprenticeship program and to register for an information session click here.

Murphy Signs Bills Strengthening How Law Enforcement Agencies Manage Sexual Assault Cases

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Murphy Signs Bills Strengthening How Law Enforcement Agencies Manage Sexual Assault Cases

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed a series of bills strengthening how law enforcement agencies handle sexual assault cases. These bills direct law enforcement agencies to allocate additional resources to sexual assault cases, increase training for prosecutors on how to manage these cases, and change reporting structures to ensure that survivors are properly notified about their cases. As part of this package of bills, Attorney General Gurbir Grewal will also be tasked with publishing an annual report detailing the scope of sexual assault incidents statewide.

“It is imperative that we take steps to make sure that survivors in New Jersey know they can seek justice,” said Governor Murphy. “Giving our law enforcement agencies clear directives and guidance on how to manage sexual assault cases will ensure that these cases are handled with survivors in mind. These long-overdue reforms will change how survivors interact with law enforcement agencies and provide additional information on the scope of these incidents. I am proud to sign these bills into law.”

Previously, Governor Murphy signed the Sexual Assault Victim’s Bill of Rights,  legislation to protect survivors and legislation to create a new commission on campus sexual assault. Attorney General Grewal also issued a directive to law enforcement in 2018 that created fourteen protocols prioritizing the needs and concerns of sexual assault victims in New Jersey and ensuring that victims are treated with respect and understanding by law enforcement in the days, weeks, and months after reporting an assault. Many of today’s actions codify and expand on that 2018 directive.

Governor Murphy signed the following legislation:

  • S3070/A4884 (Weinberg, Turner/Vainieri Huttle, McKnight, Reynolds-Jackson) Establishes “Sexual Violence Restorative Justice Pilot Program.”
  • S3071/4885 (Weinberg, Ruiz/Vainieri Huttle, Lopez, Reynolds-Jackson) Requires law enforcement to provide the victim of sexual assault with an initial incident report; provides the victim with an option to review the initial incident report and submit the corrective form.
  • S3072/A4886 – (Weinberg, Cunningham/Vainieri Huttle, Murphy, Reynolds-Jackson) Requires resources to be made available to victims of sexual assault.
  • S3073/A4887 – (Weinberg, Corrado/Vainieri Huttle, Jasey, Timberlake) Establishes right of victims to be notified of the county prosecutor’s charging decision in sexual assault cases.
  • S3074/A4888 – (Weinberg, Greenstein/Vainieri Huttle, Lopez) Requires the Office of the Attorney General to issue an annual report concerning sexual assault cases.
  • S3075/A4889 – (Weinberg, Pou/Vainieri Huttle, Quijano, Speight) Establishes sexual violence liaison officer in Division of State Police and local police departments.
  • S3076/A4890 – (Weinberg, Gill/Vainieri Huttle, McKnight, Reynolds-Jackson) Requires sexual assault training for prosecutors.

“This legislation codifies and in some instances expands upon the important steps our office has taken in the last several years to improve the way law enforcement officers and prosecutors engage with victims of sexual assault, with the goal of ensuring that survivors’ cases are handled in accordance with best practices by police and prosecutors,” said Attorney General Grewal. “With the signing of these bills into law, New Jersey stands as a model for improving survivor-focused case management and law enforcement training and reporting, so we can achieve justice while treating survivors of sex crimes.

“New Jersey adds to its portfolio of survivor-centered, trauma-informed laws and transforms how our state responds to the needs of survivors of sexual violence,” said Patricia Teffenhart, Executive Director of the New Jersey Coalition Against Sexual Assault (NJCASA). “The signing of this package of bills is a direct reflection of what kind of change is possible when we collectively center the lived experiences of survivors to inform necessary policy and practice reforms. NJCASA is thankful for the survivors, advocates, bill sponsors, and Governor Murphy who made this possible.”

Letter to the Editor: Parsippany’s Path Forward on Cannabis

Letters to the Editor
-
0
Letter to the Editor: Parsippany’s Path Forward on Cannabis

parsippany focusDear Editor:

In November 67% of NJ voters and 63% of Parsippany voters overwhelmingly supported cannabis legalization leaving behind decades of the cannabis culture wars. This is a new day and the choice in the next 180 days is to respect the will of the voters, put aside personal and/or political ideology and decide how we go about implementing new sources of cash flow for the township.

Cannabis is legal. The only question for the council now: does Parsippany pick up new operating revenue or leave it for our neighboring towns and rely on our residents to balance their budget or take the time to analyze the opportunities and issues to make decisions that best serve the town and respect the choice of the majority of our constituents.

The ordinance presented at the April 6th town council meeting opts out of all cannabis businesses on concerns related to retail establishments. Retail establishments are one (1) of six (6) cannabis business classes.

The six (6) business classes include cultivating, manufacturing, wholesale, distribution, and delivery services that are no different than other businesses presently operating in Parsippany and offer municipalities revenue opportunities that provide the town a maximum of 2% from each sale at each stage of the business process. The legislation also allows the township the ability to limit the number and type of businesses allowed, their location and operating hours.

In addition to producing meaningful revenue from cannabis business sales, they will fill empty buildings generating additional revenue rather than have developers acquire these sites and build more housing that puts money in the hands of developers instead of taxpayers, increases traffic, and negatively impacts our schools.

Opting out without further consideration will not mitigate concerns related to individual use and law enforcement issues since Parsippany residents could purchase cannabis products through retail establishments and delivery services from surrounding municipalities and counties and it does little to stop individuals traveling through Parsippany with cannabis products. In addition, legalization offers potential savings related to law enforcement as illegal cannabis operations decline.

Rather than opting out completely, we are looking to reach a fair-minded balance on a reasonable path forward that respects the will of our constituents and realizes the benefits that legalization presents for Parsippany residents.

Council members Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson

HUD Announces $5 Billion to Increase Affordable Housing to Address Homelessness

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
HUD Announces $5 Billion to Increase Affordable Housing to Address Homelessness

WASHINGTON —  U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Marcia L. Fudge, along with Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont and Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, held a Zoom call to discuss the nearly $5 billion in American Rescue Plan funds allocated by HUD to help communities across the country create affordable housing and services for people experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness.

The supplemental funding is allocated through the HOME Investment Partnerships Program to 651 grantees, including states, insular areas, and local governments.

“Homelessness in the United States was increasing even before COVID-19, and we know the pandemic has only made the crisis worse,” said Secretary Marcia L. Fudge. “HUD’s swift allocation of this $5 billion in American Rescue Plan funding reflects our commitment to addressing homelessness as a priority. With this strong funding, communities across the country will have the resources needed to give homes to the people who have had to endure the COVID-19 pandemic without one.”

“New Jersey will receive $130,874,863, HUD funding that will go a long way to alleviate homelessness in the Garden State,” said Justin Scheid, HUD Newark Field Office Director. “The Annual Homelessness Assessment Report to Congress shows that there were 9,662 homeless New Jerseyans before the pandemic, a number that has the potential to increase.  Children and families deserve a decent place to live and the HOME / ARP funding can begin to heal the lives affected by homelessness and the fear of becoming homeless.”

The $4.925 billion in HOME-ARP funding gives states the flexibility to best meet the needs of people experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness, including through the development of affordable housing, tenant-based rental assistance, supportive services, and acquisition and development of non-congregate shelter units. Funds must be spent by 2030.

The nearly $5 billion in HOME-ARP funding is the first of two homelessness-related funding opportunities from the American Rescue Plan that HUD will release. In the coming weeks, HUD will announce the allocation of funding for emergency vouchers for people experiencing and at-risk of homelessness.

While the nearly $5 billion in HOME-ARP funding will deliver near-term relief to people experiencing or at-risk of experiencing homelessness, President Biden’s American Jobs Plan would build on this relief with additional robust funding to bring the United States closer to ending homelessness and housing instability.

Past Chief of Parsippany Rescue and Recovery Has Passed Away

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Past Chief of Parsippany Rescue and Recovery Has Passed Away

PARSIPPANY — Past Chief of Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, Francisco Munoz, passed away on Thursday morning.

“It is with the deepest regret we have to announce the passing of life member and Past Chief Francisco Munoz. Franco passed peacefully this morning. He was a tremendous asset to the organization. Franco’s dedication to emergency services started in his native country of Chile as a firefighter. As an active rescue technician and public safety diver, he will be sorely missed by all. His personality was contagious.”

“Outside of Rescue, he was a true family man. He always had his camera capturing pictures of his beautiful wife and children. They traveled and loved to eat. He loved them. We thank the Munoz family for sharing Franco with us. Our condolences to the family” posted on Facebook.

“Francisco Munoz you were working hard towards completing this certification and we at Northeast Public Safety Divers didn’t want to see that go unfinished. Our deepest condolences to your friend, family, and team! We will miss you brother” said members of Northeast Public Safety Divers.

Treasurer Andrew Ludwig said “I am at a loss for words. A fellow foodie, traveler, teacher, and friend. You always put others first. Rappelling off buildings to diving with you was always an adventure. May you rest in the sweetest peace.”

“He was a gentleman and a great asset and member of our team Rip my Friend you will be missed,” said Joseph Bellardino.

Funeral services will be handled by Par-Troy Funeral Home.

Parsippany Rescue and Recovery is a 100% volunteer rescue department with an active membership of 25 fully trained first responders and heavy rescue. They operate out of two stations that are strategically placed in town which allows for the quickest response time.

The Unit has been serving the town since 1960 and provides heavy rescue, vehicle extrication, dive rescue/recovery, confined space rescue, elevator entrapment, downed tree and limb removal, board-ups, pump outs, emergency power generation, lighting, and special services to its residents.

Parsippany Rescue and Recovery provide mutual aid to six fire departments, two ambulance squads, and one EMS in our town. In addition, the Unit assists the fire departments and rescue squads of Denville, Mountain Lakes, Randolph, Morris Township, Morris Plains, Morristown, Hanover, East Hanover, Boonton, Montville, Fairfield, as well as any other requests from any other municipalities in the New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania area.

A Letter from Dr. Barbara Sargent

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
A Letter from Dr. Barbara Sargent

PARSIPPANY — A letter from Dr. Barbara Sargent, Parsippany-Troy Hills School Superintendent

Dear Parsippany-Troy Hills School Community,

It’s great to be back in school!  This week, all of our schools welcomed additional students for in-person learning and the energy in the classrooms is buzzing as students reconnect with friends old and new.  Most of our schools have 50% or more of their students attending in-person at this point, which is really terrific.

We are beginning the important work of planning for a full return to school in September.  The district will offer several summer programs that will give children a chance to see each other, play and learn with each other, and reclaim some normalcy.

  • Wide World of Summer and Wide World of Summer PLUS offer students lots of activities and special programs.   The new PLUS program is a ½ day offering with a special focus on Science, Literacy, and Mathematics.  Visit our district website by clicking here  to learn more.
  • The Summer Stepstones program will be offered again this year for students entering Grades 1-8 and Algebra.  More information about this free virtual program which provides lessons in Reading and Math will be available soon.
  • ESL Summer School is available for students entering Grades 1-9 and provides lots of virtual fun for students in Art, food, STEM, and Fitness while reinforcing important language skills.
  • A Summer Skills Boot Camp will be offered in person by invitation for students entering Grades 1-6 in need of targeted Reading and Math intervention.
  • We are launching a special HS Summer Acceleration opportunity for incoming 10th -12th Grade students in Geometry Honors and Personal Finance.  This hybrid program connects our students with our own district teachers and allows them to gain credit for these classes over the summer so they can open their schedules for other studies.
  • Finally, the Extended School Year program will provide specialized instruction and/or related services to students based on their IEP.  We are excited to run this program in person this summer with a virtual component for those who request it.

Whether it is academics, fitness, or cultural and performing arts, Parsippany-Troy Hills is working to provide students in-person and online opportunities to connect with friends and explore new activities.  Please watch the School Messenger announcements and my Friday letters for more information about these programs and our preparations for September.

Sincerely,
Barbara Sargent, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

PHHS Robotics Team Received $500 Grant from Exxon Mobil

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
PHHS Robotics Team Received $500 Grant from Exxon Mobil

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School is proud and excited to receive the $500 grant award from Exxon Mobil. These monies will be put to good use by the Robotics Team to purchase new parts for the building of competition robots.

Earth Day Cleanup Preview

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Earth Day Cleanup Preview

PARSIPPANY — With just over a week until Parsippany’s Earth Day Cleanup on April 24, it’s more important than ever to get involved with cleaning up our environment.

Parsippany resident Noah Lustig discusses the dangers of microplastics in the Boonton Reservoir and the impacts on the area’s wildlife from plastics, garbage, and debris that we’ll be cleaning up.
Sign up to volunteer now by clicking here.

Mt. Tabor 5th Grade Host Car Wash

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Mt. Tabor 5th Grade Host Car Wash

PARSIPPANY — Mount Tabor’s 5th Grade class will be holding a Car Wash at the Morris Plains VFW, located at 45 Tabor Road in Morris Plains on Saturday, April 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

For just $5.00, you can get your ride squeaky clean for the weekend, while donating to a great cause.

1...137138139...583Page 138 of 583