Murphy Signs Executive Order Allowing Outdoor Interstate Youth Sports Competitions

Frank L. Cahill
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Murphy Signs Executive Order Allowing Outdoor Interstate Youth Sports Competitions

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order 232, which will rescind the current prohibition on outdoor interstate youth competitions, effective 6:00 a.m. on Friday, March 19.

“As the weather begins to warm up and with outdoor sports, seasons looking to begin, I am pleased that we are able to take this step,” said Governor Murphy. “This has been a challenging year, and I am excited to know that our young athletes will soon be competing out on the field.”

Attendees at outdoor sports competitions will be limited to players, coaches, and officials, and up to two parents or guardians per participating athlete. No additional spectators or attendees will be allowed.

All persons in attendance at youth sports competitions must follow all health and safety protocols for sports activities, which require attendees to wear masks and social distance, and athletes to wear masks when not engaged in activity.

The prohibition on indoor sports competitions remains in effect.

Click here to download a copy of Executive Order #232.

Parsippany College Connect Offers Scholarships

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany College Connect Offers Scholarships

PARSIPPANY — Attention Parsippany High and Parsippany Hills seniors! Parsippany College Connect is awarding a scholarship to a senior at both the Hills and High who exemplify the values of our online platform, which serves as a forum for Parsippany high school students to learn from and connect with college students.

Awardees should demonstrate prior active involvement in our local community, a desire to engage with our community in college, and a willingness to be a role model for advocacy and leadership. Awardees will be judged blindly and selected by the Leadership Team of Parsippany College Connect and will be featured on our online platform, social media, and Parsippany Focus.

If you are interested or know a high school senior who you think would be a great fit for this award, click here for the application form. All application material must be submitted to parsippanycollegeconnect@gmail.com by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 16.

Click here for Parsippany College Connect Website

Click here for Parsippany College Connect Scholarship Application

Click here to email Parsippany College Connect Email (for inquiries/questions)

Click here to download Parsippany College Connect Scholarship Application

 

 

CCM Ranks in the Top 1.8 Percent of Community Colleges in the United States

Frank L. Cahill
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CCM Ranks in the Top 1.8 Percent of Community Colleges in the United States

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) is ranked among the top 50 Best Community Colleges in the nation in the 2021 Academic Influence rankings. CCM is consistently listed among the best in New Jersey and now among the top 1.8 percent in the country.

Academic Influence generates rankings through its unique Influence Ranking Engine, scanning the web to map the impact of a school’s thought leadership across a variety of disciplines. Academic Influence is part of the Education Access Group family of sites dedicated to lifelong learning and personal growth.

Options are endless at CCM. Along with degree and certificate programs, over 165 transfer agreements guide students towards a bachelor’s degree. CCM also offers extensive professional development programs as a springboard for those looking for a new career or to level up in an existing one.

CCM is a leader in the changing landscape for students pursuing a college education. Ranking among the best in the country for  “Community Colleges Whose Graduates Earn the Most Money” and maintaining the number one spot on the “Best Community Colleges in New Jersey by Salary Potential” for four years, CCM is an excellent choice to build a future.

To learn more about CCM’s degree, certificate, and professional development programs click here.

Sudhan Thomas Offered Plea Deal in “Pay to Play” Case

Frank L. Cahill
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Sudhan Thomas Offered Plea Deal in “Pay to Play” Case

MORRIS COUNTY — Former Jersey City Board of Education President Sudhan Thomas pleaded not guilty after being indicted by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office for allegedly soliciting $35,000 in cash bribes from a cooperating witness, who has since been identified as Matt O’Donnell.

Thomas, 45, was arraigned before Morris County Superior Court Judge Stephen Taylor on Monday and entered a not guilty plea.

Thomas faces a four-count indictment accusing him of official misconduct, a pattern of official misconduct, bribery in official and political matters, and acceptance or receipt of unlawful benefit by a public servant for official behavior.

Also at the hearing, the state placed to offer their initial post-indictment plea offer on the table: in exchange for Thomas’ guilty plea to second-degree official misconduct, the state would recommend five years in state prison without the possibility of parole.

Furthermore, he would forfeit $10,000 worth of illicit proceeds, face a lifetime ban on public employment, and forfeit his pension.

Thomas is represented by Matthew Troiano, a former Morris County chief assistant prosecutor, and his initial case disposition conference currently is scheduled for May 3 before Taylor.

He was previously charged by complaint-summons in December 2019, where Attorney General Gurbir Grewal alleged that Thomas was preparing to run for Jersey City councilman in 2021 at the time of his conduct. Cases are pending against former Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman and Morris Freeholder John Cesaro, former Mt. Arlington Councilman John Windish, and former state Assemblyman Jason O’Donnell (no relation to Matt O’Donnell) of Bayonne. (Click here to read related article). On March 25, 2020, Cesaro was offered five years, with two years of parole ineligibility. Additionally, he would have forfeited the alleged bribe monies, paid anti-corruption penalties, and been barred permanently from public office or public employment, said Peter Aseltine, a spokesman for Attorney General Gurbir Grewal.

Thomas was charged with accepting $35,000 in cash bribes from a cooperating witness, $10,000 delivered on one date, and $25,000 delivered on a second date, who has since been identified as Matt O’Donnell.

Thomas allegedly agreed, in return for the cash payments, to arrange for the cooperating witness to be hired as a special counsel for the Jersey City BOE – back when he was still the president of the board.

The remaining were indicted last month. Former Morris County Freeholder candidate Mary Dougherty last month pleaded to a downgraded charge of filing a false campaign report, in return for a recommended sentence of probation.

Attorney Elizabeth Valandingham

Matt O’Donnell law partner Elizabeth Valandingham faces state prosecution in an alleged scheme to dodge campaign finance laws to procure hefty municipal contracts.  Five of her relatives and friends also were charged as “straw donors” in that probe. (Click here to read related article). Also, click here to read the charges against the “straw donors.”

Breda’s Pizza and Grill Delivers Food to Seniors During COVID-19

Frank L. Cahill
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0
Breda’s Pizza and Grill Delivers Food to Seniors During COVID-19
Philippe Cardona

PARSIPPANY — When COVID-19 pandemic started in early 2020, the owners of Breda’s Pizza & Grill felt that there could be Senior Citizens and others that are impacted by the shutdown of services. 

Philippe Cardona flipping pizza dough

They reached out to the Parsippany Department of Health and Human Services who supplied a list of people with special needs. 

Since March 2020, the restaurant with the help of volunteers has delivered over 6,000 meals to the local community with all costs borne by the owner Veronique Breda.

Breda’s Pizza and Grill is located at 59 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034. They can be reached by calling (973) 331-9911.

For more information visit their website by clicking here. To donate through GoFundMe, click here.

18-year-old Nick Sherry made a video for Dave Portnoy and The Barstool fund to evaluate Breda’s Pizza in Parsippany NJ for the Barstool Fund to receive funding in helping this small business stay afloat.

Mikaila Ullal delivering food to area senior citizens
Some of the meals being prepared to be delivered to seniors and people with disabilities
Breda’s delivery employee 18-year-old Nick Sherry filmed a video for Dave Portnoy of The Barstool Fund

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Holds Free Food Distribution

Frank L. Cahill
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Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Holds Free Food Distribution

PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany held a free food distribution on Sunday, March 14 at Parsippany High School.

Varshini Chennupati, PHS Key Club Vice President.

Over the weekend Kiwanis members and volunteers gave out over 50,000 pounds of food feeding over 1250 families. Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, Kiwanis Club of Greater Roxbury, Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town, Kiwanis Club of Clifton, Kiwanis Club of South Orange Maplewood, and Kiwanis Club of Asbury Park all participated in the event.

In Parsippany, the Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School Key Club members along with their advisors, Amy Letsch, Lindsay Hulin and Kristine Bushong help organize the food, pack the boxes and place the food in vehicles as they pulled up to the school to receive food. Other Kiwanis members from Parsippany, Roxbury, and Tri-Town, along with community leaders help with the distribution of the food.

Landen Gilliard, a PHS Key Club member

The Parsippany High School Key Club student volunteers included Dea Ellis, Aesha Shah, Violette Hauge, Shagun Singh, Rhea Balani, Landen Gilliard, Varshini Chennupati, and Yukta Nyati.

The Parsippany Hills High School Key club student volunteers included Hannah Mow, Kierra Duffy, Melissa Trujillo, Lourdes Ignacio, and Ava Ignacio.

After the long line of vehicles ended, Frank Cahill and Cain Pope distributed some leftover food to Market Street Mission and Ms. Letsch and Ms. Hulin distributed some food to Loaves and Fishes, Boonton.

“The USDA estimates that in 2018, about 774,860 people, including 219,760 children, in New Jersey were food insecure. That means one in 11 individuals (8.7%) and one in nine children (11.3%) live in homes without consistent access to adequate food for everyone to live healthy, active lives,” said Frank Cahill, Lt. Governor Kiwanis Division 9.

“The economic damage wrought by mass layoffs and business closures is expected to persist long after vaccines become widely available and that means demand for food assistance will remain at the current high level for months or years to come,” said Laura Wohland, President Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

“These numbers have increased drastically with families struggling during the pandemic,” said Cain Pope, President of Kiwanis Club of Greater Roxbury, and coordinator of the food distribution program.

“It is amazing to see the Asbury Park community come together in a time of need. Asbury Park should be proud for rising to the occasion to #FeedAP during a global pandemic,” Lt. Gov-Elect [Division 5] and Club Secretary Martin Slezak, explained. “We look forward to continuing to serve our community on the move forward and we thank all who have donated and supported this initiative.”

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.

To view our recent YouTube video of previous Food Distributions click here.

Interested in learning more about the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, contact President Laura Wohland, by emailing law4pres@gmail.com. Click here to view the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany website.

For additional information on Food Distributions contact Frank Cahill at (862) 346-5100 or Project Coordinator Cain Pope at (201) 300-7654.

PHS Key Club members filling the boxes with food to distribute to people needing food at Parsippany High School. The free Food Distribution was sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany
Yukta Nyati, PHS Key Club President and Rhea Balaji, PHS Kew Club member
Yukta Nyati, PHS Key Club President, Rhea Balani, PHS Key Club member, and Shagun Singh, PHS Key Club member

‘New Jersey Foreclosure Prevention Act’ Now Law

Frank L. Cahill
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‘New Jersey Foreclosure Prevention Act’ Now Law

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed the New Jersey Foreclosure Prevention Act (A5130).

The New Jersey Foreclosure Prevention Act creates the ‘New Jersey Residential Foreclosure Prevention Program’, implementation of which will be led by the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) in furtherance of the agency’s commitment to affordable housing ownership and foreclosure mediation. This program empowers NJHMFA to address the rising number of foreclosures in New Jersey, not only helping to stabilize families’ homeownership but their neighborhood as well. By establishing public-private partnerships with nonprofits, NJHMFA will be able to undertake supportive interventions including bulk purchases of non-performing loans from institutional lenders, advancing recommendations set forth in the 2018 Report of the Housing Transition Advisory Committee.

“Combatting housing insecurity in New Jersey is essential during these extraordinarily trying times. We have an obligation to identify new and innovative ways to aid our state’s residents in this time of stress,”　said Governor Murphy.　”This bill provides pathways to help more New Jersey homeowners remain in their homes.”

Stable housing for New Jersey residents is a focal point of this administration. Prior to this legislation’s enactment, Governor Murphy directed NJHMFA in March of 2020 to expand its Foreclosure Mediation Assistance Program (FMAP) to include pre-foreclosure counseling to help homeowners avoid potential foreclosure, and to begin offering counseling assistance to renters. This expanded program has assisted approximately 2,163 families, comprising roughly 1,430 rental households and approximately 500 owner-occupied　households.

Stable housing is an economic, health, and community imperative.  The New Jersey Foreclosure Prevention Act is designed to help address the impacts of growing housing insecurity, from homeowners in need to communities confronting vacant and abandoned properties. By addressing these intersecting challenges, this legislation is a crucial step toward housing stability for families and communities across our state.

“The New Jersey Foreclosure Act acknowledges and seeks to assist struggling homeowners in New Jersey. It has proven prescient as that need has grown exponentially within the last year,” said Lt. Governor Oliver, who serves as New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Commissioner and NJHMFA board chair. “This Act and its ensuing　programs will work in tandem with the State’s existing programs to help prevent our most vulnerable residents from losing their homes.”

“This legislation will help New Jersey families keep their homes and ensure that foreclosed properties reenter the homeownership market, stabilizing neighborhoods and helping families become homeowners”, said Melanie R. Walter, Executive Director, New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency.”It facilitates crucial interventions including the expansion of NJHMFA’s partnerships with Community Development Financial Institutions, creation of new mortgage products, and establishment of a revenue stream to support housing stabilization in our state.”

“New Jersey has　made great strides in addressing the previous　foreclosure crisis, and we do not want to see history repeat itself when　the foreclosure moratorium is eventually lifted,” said　Senator Singleton. “With the pandemic decimating　the economy, countless people　around the state are on the brink of losing their homes. Now law, the New Jersey Foreclosure Prevention Act will help to stave off a wave of foreclosures, and more importantly, keep families in their homes.”

“New Jersey is in a housing crisis and has been for many years. There are many foreclosed vacant residential properties throughout the state that are undermining the health, safety, and economic vitality of neighborhoods. They depress neighboring property values, reducing revenues for municipalities,” said Assembly sponsors Mila Jasey, Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, and Benjie Wimberly.”The New Jersey Residential Foreclosure Prevention Program will assist struggling homeowners facing foreclosure and also help with the redevelopment of currently vacant properties due to foreclosures.”MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed the New Jersey Foreclosure Prevention Act (A5130).

The New Jersey Foreclosure Prevention Act creates the ‘New Jersey Residential Foreclosure Prevention Program’, implementation of which will be led by the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) in furtherance of the agency’s commitment to affordable housing ownership and foreclosure mediation. This program empowers NJHMFA to address the rising number of foreclosures in New Jersey, not only helping to stabilize families’ homeownership but their neighborhood as well. By establishing public-private partnerships with nonprofits, NJHMFA will be able to undertake supportive interventions including bulk purchases of non-performing loans from institutional lenders, advancing recommendations set forth in the 2018 Report of the Housing Transition Advisory Committee.

“Combatting housing insecurity in New Jersey is essential during these extraordinarily trying times. We have an obligation to identify new and innovative ways to aid our state’s residents in this time of stress,”　said Governor Murphy.　”This bill provides pathways to help more New Jersey homeowners remain in their homes.”

Stable housing for New Jersey residents is a focal point of this administration. Prior to this legislation’s enactment, Governor Murphy directed NJHMFA in March of 2020 to expand its Foreclosure Mediation Assistance Program (FMAP) to include pre-foreclosure counseling to help homeowners avoid potential foreclosure, and to begin offering counseling assistance to renters. This expanded program has assisted approximately 2,163 families, comprising roughly 1,430 rental households and approximately 500 owner-occupied　households.

Stable housing is an economic, health, and community imperative.  The New Jersey Foreclosure Prevention Act is designed to help address the impacts of growing housing insecurity, from homeowners in need to communities confronting vacant and abandoned properties. By addressing these intersecting challenges, this legislation is a crucial step toward housing stability for families and communities across our state.

“The New Jersey Foreclosure Act acknowledges and seeks to assist struggling homeowners in New Jersey. It has proven prescient as that need has grown exponentially within the last year,” said Lt. Governor Oliver, who serves as New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Commissioner and NJHMFA board chair. “This Act and its ensuing　programs will work in tandem with the State’s existing programs to help prevent our most vulnerable residents from losing their homes.”

“This legislation will help New Jersey families keep their homes and ensure that foreclosed properties reenter the homeownership market, stabilizing neighborhoods and helping families become homeowners”, said Melanie R. Walter, Executive Director, New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency.”It facilitates crucial interventions including the expansion of NJHMFA’s partnerships with Community Development Financial Institutions, creation of new mortgage products, and establishment of a revenue stream to support housing stabilization in our state.”

“New Jersey has　made great strides in addressing the previous　foreclosure crisis, and we do not want to see history repeat itself when　the foreclosure moratorium is eventually lifted,” said　Senator Singleton. “With the pandemic decimating　the economy, countless people　around the state are on the brink of losing their homes. Now law, the New Jersey Foreclosure Prevention Act will help to stave off a wave of foreclosures, and more importantly, keep families in their homes.”

“New Jersey is in a housing crisis and has been for many years. There are many foreclosed vacant residential properties throughout the state that are undermining the health, safety, and economic vitality of neighborhoods. They depress neighboring property values, reducing revenues for municipalities,” said Assembly sponsors Mila Jasey, Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, and Benjie Wimberly.”The New Jersey Residential Foreclosure Prevention Program will assist struggling homeowners facing foreclosure and also help with the redevelopment of currently vacant properties due to foreclosures.”

The Capital Grille Makes Its Debut In Parsippany

Frank L. Cahill
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0
The Capital Grille Makes Its Debut In Parsippany

PARSIPPANY — Known for dry-aged steaks, exceptional seafood, and a world-class wine list, The Capital Grille is introducing Parsippany to its take on fine dining. Opening Friday, April 9, the restaurant is also renowned for its attentive service in a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.

Dining area fo the new Capital Grille

The Capital Grille is best known for steaks dry-aged in-house for 18-24 days, a process that achieves incomparable flavor and tenderness. Steaks are hand-cut daily by the in-house butcher, with selections including Bone-in Kona Crusted Dry-Aged NY Strip with Shallot Butter; Porcini Rubbed Delmonico with 15-Year Aged Balsamic; and Sliced Filet Mignon with Cipollini Onions, Wild Mushrooms and Fig Essence, among others.

The restaurant is also popular for its blend of menu classics and twists on appetizers and sides, prepared using only the freshest ingredients. Signature dishes include Pan-Fried Calamari with Hot Cherry Peppers; Lobster Mac ‘N’ Cheese; and Seared Citrus Glazed Salmon. Dedicated to culinary excellence throughout its menu, a skilled pastry chef prepares desserts each morning from scratch, such as The Capital Grille Cheesecake, brûlée style, and Coconut Cream Pie.

The Capital Grille pours from a Wine Spectator-recognized list of more than 350 selections, featuring some of the most highly allocated and sought-after wines in the world. Through continuous wine and sommelier training, servers can make personalized recommendations for guests to make their perfect pairings. Additionally, 25 wines are offered by the glass from a global selection with an emphasis on California and Napa Valley, including such rarely offered labels as Faust and Caymus. For the aficionado, personalized wine lockers are available for lease with brass nameplates complete with specially curated wines. Guests may also sip from classic and signature cocktails, such as the Stoli Doli, the restaurant’s signature martini made with Stolichnaya Vodka infused with fresh pineapple, chilled and served straight up.

Kitchen

The Capital Grille in Parsippany is located at 10 Dryden Way. The new restaurant spans nearly 10,000 square feet, including private and semi-private space, as well as a spacious lounge. The dining room is open daily for dinner, with hours Sunday from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., as well as lunch Monday to Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Reservations are recommended but not required.

More information about The Capital Grille’s safety commitments to guests is available by clicking here.

For more information click here or Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

The Capital Grille is a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Passing of Deputy County Clerk John Wojtaszek

Frank L. Cahill
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Passing of Deputy County Clerk John Wojtaszek

MORRIS COUNTY — “It is with great sadness of the passing of Deputy County Clerk John Wojtaszek,” said Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi.

John was a diligent and tireless worker on behalf of the Morris County Clerk’s Office and the residents of Morris County. He was a visionary who introduced many new and innovative programs, focused an eagle eye on election details, foresaw and remedied issues, was at ease speaking with politicians at all levels, the press, and the public. Prior to becoming the Deputy County Clerk, John was an educator in the Rockaway Borough School District.

During his lifetime, John was an elected official, political mentor to many, possessed an acute political mind, with an encyclopedic knowledge of elections, and an expert in US and NJ History.

He was a gentle giant who always looked out for everyone and he will be missed. There is a saying that “anyone can be replaced”, but John is irreplaceable.

Our deepest condolences are extended to his family and his wife Bette.

Parsippany Community Update March 16, 2021

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Community Update March 16, 2021

PARSIPPANY — In Morris County, nearly 150 thousand residents have received their first shot. That’s almost one-third of the county.

We will continue to see increased availability of the three vaccines approved for emergency use in the weeks ahead.

Morris County COVID-19 Case Count: Click here
COVID-19 Dashboard: Click here​
Who is eligible for vaccination in New Jersey? Click here
​Where, how, and when can I get vaccinated? Click here
Register and make an appointment through the NJ Vaccine Scheduling System: Click here​
Make an appointment directly with a vaccination location: Click here

Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library Names Melissa Kuzma as New Director

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library Names Melissa Kuzma as New Director

PARSIPPANY — Melissa Kuzma has been chosen by the Parsippany-Troy Hills Library Board of Directors to serve as the new Library Directory. She starts on April 5, 2021.  Melissa is currently the Library Director at the East Brunswick Public Library system, since August 2020. According to her LinkedIn profile, she resides in Bound Brook.

Kuzma will replace Jayne Beline who retired from the Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library on October 1, 2020, after serving as Executive Director for the past 30 years.

Kuzma first joined East Brunswick Public Library as Assistant Director in 2016, but she has spent most of her career working in libraries. After graduating from Rutgers University with a degree in history, she worked at New York Public Library as a librarian trainee.

“I am very pleased about Parsippany’s new Library Director. This hiring is a long time coming, and they couldn’t have picked a better leader to take the reins. Our Township’s libraries have a lot of exciting developments in store in the months and years ahead, and it’s vitally important that we have somebody with a passion for knowledge and a focus on the community to help lead the way,” said Mayor Michael Soriano.

Kuzma earned her Master’s in Library Sciences at Rutgers, and she worked at New York Public Library and West Orange Public Library as a librarian.

Her career path eventually took her out of the library, working for companies that serve public, academic, and corporate libraries as a project manager for Baker & Taylor and as a product manager for R. R. Bowker. She also worked as the Summit Housing Authority’s Deputy Executive Director.

“I’m thrilled to be coming to the Parsippany Troy Hills Public Library. I feel lucky to be joining such a busy, dynamic library system in a vibrant and diverse community like Parsippany. I’m looking forward to meeting the library staff, getting to know the community, and embarking on the construction project for the new Lake Hiawatha Library. This is an amazing opportunity for the community and I am excited to be a part of it,” said Melissa.

Like any other library professional, Kuzma also has several book recommendations. Some of her favorite books this year have been The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead, The Vanishing Half by Britt Bennett, and Writers & Lovers by Lily King. She is currently reading Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

“The wealth of diversity in Ms. Kuzma’s professional history is an excellent addition to the leadership roles of the town. In her capable hands, the library enters a new era that, as a member of the council, I am in full support of, and as a member of the community, I am personally excited too!,” said Councilwoman Emily Peterson.

Former Library Director Jayne Beline said, “I am sure that Melissa will use her creativity and experience from the East Brunswick library to work with the Library Board and staff to provide great library service to the Parsippany community.”

“We are excited about all the changes going on at the Library and part of that is our new director, Melissa Kuzma. She comes to us from East Brunswick and has many of experience, not all in libraries, which give her a fresh perspective,” stated Ellen Waldman, President of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Library Board of Directors.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Library has three branches: Main branch – 449 Halsey Road – (973) 887-5150; Lake Hiwatha branch – 68 Nokomis Avenue, Lake Hiawatha – (973) 335-0952  and Mt. Tabor branch – 31 Trinity Park, Mount Tabor – (973) 627-9508. Click here to view the website.

To request a library card click here.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting for March 16

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting for March 16

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will conduct its regularly scheduled council meeting Tuesday, March 16, 2021, at 7:00 p.m.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the meeting will be held via a web conferencing program named WebEx. This program will allow the public to listen in to the meeting and to participate during the public portion session only. This program uses a “raise hand” button in the software to address those who wish to speak during the public portion.

Please be advised that in order for a member of the public to speak during the public portion, they will need to provide their first name, last name, email address, address and city accurately. Anyone not using their real name and address will not be allowed to speak during the public portion.

For more information, please contact the Township Clerk’s office at (973) 263-4351 or email pthclerk@parsippany.net.

Resolutions and Ordinances can be found below:

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – March 2, 2021

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – March 2, 2021

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – March 2, 2021.

Click here to download the agenda.

Cycling to Help Find a Cure for Type 1 Diabetes

Frank L. Cahill
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Cycling to Help Find a Cure for Type 1 Diabetes

PARSIPPANY — Once again, Lake Hiawatha resident Brian Donlin is helping to find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) through a fundraising effort for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Every year, hundreds of cyclists gather in different cities to ride in support of JDRF Research. Some are kids and adults with T1D, and some are the friends and family that support them. Sadly, last year’s events were canceled due to pandemic restrictions, but that didn’t stop Brian from surpassing his goal!

This year, he will be safety training for the 100-mile (century) ride at the Ramapo Rally in August later this year. Even if this event is canceled this year, he has plenty of options as a backup so he doesn’t miss out on his 100-mile challenge. Be on the lookout around the Lake Hiawatha and Montville areas for him!

Brian has known many people in his life that live with T1D, but it really hit home when the diagnosis came to his nephew Zach. Zach was diagnosed with T1D as he entered Kindergarten not long ago. It was initially extremely hard on him and his family, but through support and the research done through the JDRF, his life has been made just a little bit easier. Now 10, he has become accustomed to a life many of us would never understand. But leveraging current and new technologies along with advances in medicine, Zach just may be one of the first few to see T1D disappear altogether.

You can follow Brian’s progress on his personal site by clicking here.

You can also donate directly through his JDRF page by clicking here, or through his Facebook fundraiser. For more information on Brian or his fundraiser, please email him directly backyardcyclist@gmail.com.

The JDRF has been leading the fight against type 1 diabetes (T1D) by funding research, advocating for policies that accelerate access to new therapies, and providing a support network for millions of people around the world impacted by T1D. Every dollar donated goes directly to the JDRF to help everyone with T1D live healthier and longer, until this disease no longer exists.

Every mile pedaled is a mile closer to a cure. We can’t make it to the finish line without you!

BULLETIN: Sign up Now for Preschool Tuition Assistance

Frank L. Cahill
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BULLETIN: Sign up Now for Preschool Tuition Assistance

MORRIS COUNTY — Many local families have been impacted financially as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. Preschool Advantage is here to help and continues to accept applications for tuition assistance for children to attend its partner preschools for the school year beginning in September 2021. Children must be 3- or 4-years old by October 1, 2021.

April 3 is the next deadline for parents who qualify to receive financial help to place their child in a preschool classroom.

Preschool Advantage partners with 28 preschools in Morris and Somerset counties to provide a quality preschool education for families who could otherwise not afford it. We want to prepare children for a lifetime of learning that will create a better world for them, their families, and the community.

While there are federally funded programs to cover the cost of preschool for families living below the poverty line, many other families can’t afford early education due to the high cost of living in this region. Preschool Advantage is committed to giving children the opportunity to attend preschool and thus equalize the gap between lower-income families and affluent families.

To apply for assistance click here, call (973) 532-2501, or email program@preschooladvantge.org.

Who is Eligible for Vaccination?

Frank L. Cahill
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0
Who is Eligible for Vaccination?

MORRIS COUNTY —  New Jersey is rolling out COVID-19 vaccines step-by-step to serve all adults who live, work, or study in the state.

Who is eligible for vaccination at this time?

Currently, vaccines are available to the following groups:

        • Paid and unpaid healthcare workers
        • Residents and workers of long-term care and high-risk congregate-care facilities
        • First responders including sworn law enforcement and fire professionals
        • Individuals aged over 65
        • Individuals aged 16-64 that have certain medical conditions that increase the risk of severe illness from the virus
        • Pre-K to 12 educators and staff
        • Childcare workers in licensed and registered settings
        • Beginning March 15, the following groups will be eligible to book vaccine appointments:
        • Transportation workers
        • Additional public safety workers
        • Additional high-risk individuals
        • Beginning March 29, additional frontline essential workers will be eligible to book vaccine appointments.

      Healthcare Personnel (Phase 1A)Paid and unpaid persons serving in health care settings who have the potential for direct or indirect exposure to patients or infectious materials, including, but not limited to:

    • Licensed healthcare professionals like doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists
    • Staff like receptionists, janitors, mortuary services, laboratory technicians
    • Consultants, per diem, and contractors who are not directly employed by the facility
    • Unpaid workers like health professional students, trainees, volunteers, and essential caregivers
    • Community health workers, doulas, and public health professionals like Medical Reserve Corps
    • Personnel with variable venues like EMS, paramedics, funeral staff, and autopsy workers
    • All workers in acute, pediatric, and behavioral health hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers
    • All workers in health facilities like psychiatric facilities, Federally Qualified Health Centers, and rehabs
    • All workers in clinic-based settings like urgent care clinics, dialysis centers, and family planning sites
    • All workers in long-term care settings like nursing homes, assisted living facilities, group homes, and others
    • All workers in occupational-based healthcare settings like health clinics within workplaces, shelters, jails, colleges, and universities, and K-12 schools
    • All workers in community-based healthcare settings like PACE and Adult Living Community Nursing
    • All workers in home-based settings like hospice, home care, and visiting nurse services
    • All workers in office-based healthcare settings like physician and dental offices
    • All workers in public health settings like local health departments, LINCS agencies, harm reduction centers, and medicinal marijuana programs
    • All workers in retail, independent, and institutional pharmacies
    • Other paid or unpaid people who work in a healthcare setting, who may have direct or indirect contact with infectious persons or materials, and who cannot work from home.

Long-Term Care Residents and Staff (Phase 1A)

  • All residents and workers of long-term care and high-risk congregate-care facilities, including:
  • Skilled nursing facilities
  • Veterans homes
  • Assisted living facilities, continuing care retirement communities, and personal care homes
  • Group homes like residential care homes, adult family homes, adult foster homes, and intellectual and developmental disabilities group homes
  • HUD 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program residences
  • Institutional settings like psychiatric hospitals, correctional institutions, county jails, and juvenile detention facilities (for eligible minors, e.g. 16+ years of age may be eligible for Pfizer vaccine under the emergency use authorization)

 

    • Other vulnerable, congregate, long-term settings>First Responders (Phase 1B)Sworn law enforcement, firefighters, and other first responders, including:
    • New Jersey State Police troopers
    • Municipal and county police officers
    • Campus police officers
    • Detectives in prosecutors’ offices and state agencies
    • State agency/authority law enforcement officers (e.g. State Park Police and Conservation Officers,
    • Palisades Interstate Parkway Officers, Human Services police, and NJTransit police)
    • Investigator, Parole and Secured Facilities Officers
    • Aeronautical Operations Specialists
    • Sworn Federal Law Enforcement Officers and Special Agents
    • Bi-State law enforcement officers (e.g. Port Authority)
    • Court Security Officers
    • Paid and unpaid members of firefighting services (structural and wildland)
    • Paid and unpaid members of Search and Rescue Units including technical rescue units and HAZMAT teams
    • Paid and unpaid firefighters who provide emergency medical services
    • Paid and unpaid members of Industrial units that perform Fire, Rescue, and HAZMAT services
    • Members of State Fire Marshal’s Offices
    • Bi-State Fire Service Personnel (e.g. Port Authority)Individuals at High Risk (Phase 1B)Individuals aged 65 and older, and individuals ages 16-64 with medical conditions, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, that increase the risk of severe illness from the virus. These conditions include:
    • Cancer
    • Chronic kidney disease
    • COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
    • Down Syndrome
    • Heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies
    • Obesity (body mass index [BMI] of 30 kg/m2 or higher but < 40 kg/m2)
    • Severe Obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2)
    • Sickle cell disease
    • Smoking
    • Type 2 diabetes
    • mellitus
    • Note: Individuals who are pregnant and those in an immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from solid organ transplant are also eligible but should follow CDC guidance and first discuss vaccination with their medical provider before receiving the vaccine.Educators and Childcare Workers
    • Paid and unpaid people working in pre-K through 12th-grade settings, including teachers, staff, classroom aides, bus drivers, janitors, counselors, administration staff, cafeteria workers, and substitute teachers
    • Head Start and Early Head Start program staff Any other paid or unpaid persons working in schools serving that pre-K to grade 12
    • Paid and unpaid people working in licensed or registered childcare settings, including center-based and family childcare provider

Who is eligible for vaccination next?

    • Beginning Monday, March 15, the following categories are eligible for vaccination:

    • Public and local transportation workers, including bus, taxi, rideshare, and airport employees; NJ TRANSIT workers; and Motor Vehicle Commission staff;
    • Public safety workers who have not sworn law enforcement or fire professionals, including probation officers and fire safety inspectors;
    • Migrant farmworkers;
    • Members of tribal communities;
    • Individuals experiencing homelessness and those living in shelters, including domestic violence shelters.
    • In addition, on March 15, individuals with the following conditions that might be at increased risk for severe illness from the virus will be added to the list of individuals at high risk and eligible for vaccination:
    • Asthma (moderate-to-severe)
    • Cerebrovascular disease (affects blood vessels and blood supply to the brain)
    • Cystic fibrosis Hypertension or high blood pressure Neurologic conditions, such as dementia Liver disease
    • Overweight (BMI > 25 kg/m2, but < 30 kg/m2)
    • Pulmonary fibrosis (having damaged or scarred lung tissues)
    • Thalassemia (a type of blood disorder)
    • Type 1 diabetes mellitus
    • Note: Individuals who are in an immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from blood or bone marrow transplant, immune deficiencies, HIV, use of corticosteroids, or use of other immune weakening medicines are also eligible but should follow CDC guidance and first discuss vaccination with their medical provider before receiving the vaccine.Additionally, beginning on Monday, March 29, frontline essential workers in the following categories are also eligible for vaccination:
    • Food production, agriculture, and food distribution;
    • Eldercare and support;
    • Warehousing and logistics;
    • Social services support staff;
    • Elections personnel;
    • Hospitality;
    • Medical supply chain;
    • Postal and shipping services;
    • Clergy; and,
    • Judicial system.
    • NOTE: Vaccination phases are tentative and subject to change. The movement between vaccination eligibility phases is fluid. One phase may overlap with another. Not all individuals in one phase will be vaccinated before opening to additional groups. Announcements regarding vaccine eligibility for additional groups, including the general population, will be forthcoming.

Additional Information All New Jerseyans can register for the vaccine. Click here for more information on how to schedule a vaccination or register for the vaccine.COVID-19 vaccines will be made available to individuals regardless of insurance coverage status. Individuals won’t pay coinsurance, deductibles, or copayments. Click here for more information about insurance coverage and vaccines for uninsured individuals.

For more information on how vaccines work, vaccine trials, vaccine safety, click here.
Source: COVID-19 Briefings; DOH COVID-19 Vaccination Page

Expanded Capacity and Increased Gathering Sizes

Frank L. Cahill
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Expanded Capacity and Increased Gathering Sizes

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 230, which will increase indoor capacity limits for certain businesses and increase both the general indoor and outdoor gathering limit.

“We believe we can confidently take these steps today as our COVID-19 metrics continue to trend in the right direction,” said Governor Murphy.” However, our mask mandate and COVID-19 health and safety protocols remain in effect. I am hopeful that we’ll be able to take further steps in expanding capacity responsibly and incrementally guided by public health data.”

These changes will go into effect on Friday, March 19 at 6:00 a.m., aligned with increases in capacity in Connecticut and New York.

Executive Order No. 230 will effectuate the following changes:

Indoor Businesses

The following businesses may increase indoor capacity limits from 35 percent to 50 percent, excluding the employees of the establishment:

  • Indoor premises of restaurants, cafeterias, and food courts, with or without a liquor license, and bars;
  • Indoor recreation, amusement, and entertainment businesses (including casinos and gyms); and
  • Personal care services (barber shops, nail salons, and other personal care businesses).

These businesses must continue to abide by current health and safety protocols, including face covering and physical distancing requirements.

Indoor Gatherings

  • The general indoor gathering limit will increase from 10 people to 25 people.
  • Indoor gatherings that currently have a higher limit – religious services or ceremonies, political events, weddings, funerals, memorial services, or performances – will remain unchanged.

Outdoor Gatherings

  • The general outdoor gathering limit will increase from 25 people to 50 people.
  • Outdoor gatherings that are religious services or ceremonies, political events, weddings, funerals, or memorial services will remain unchanged by the Order.

Click here to download a copy of Executive Order No. 230.

Fatal Accident Involving Pedestrian on Route 46

Frank L. Cahill
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Fatal Accident Involving Pedestrian on Route 46

PARSIPPANY — Acting Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department Chief Andrew Miller confirm the investigation into a fatal accident involving a pedestrian on Wednesday, March 10 on Route 46 near Holiday Inn.

On March 10, 2021, at approximately 7:36 p.m., Parsippany-Troy Hills Police responded to the area of 690 Route 46 West on a report of a pedestrian who had been struck by a motor vehicle. First responders located a male in the roadway, who was subsequently pronounced dead at the scene. The operator of the vehicle involved was not injured. It was determined that the deceased male had been attempting to cross Route 46 while not in a designated crosswalk. The identities of these individuals will not be released at this time.

Members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigations Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit participated in the investigation. While the crash investigation remains ongoing, no criminal activity is suspected at this time.

Anyone with information about this incident may contact the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at (973) 285-6200.

Mayor Michael Soriano and Chief Andrew Miller Demand Parental Notification Rights Be Restored for Underage Cannabis and Alcohol Possession

Frank L. Cahill
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Mayor Michael Soriano and Chief Andrew Miller Demand Parental Notification Rights Be Restored for Underage Cannabis and Alcohol Possession

PARSIPPANY – Mayor Michael Soriano addressed New Jersey’s new marijuana laws today, criticizing language that will make it a criminal offense for police to notify parents of a minor’s use or possession of cannabis or alcohol in a first offense.

Mayor Soriano demanded that the law restore parental notification rights so that parents have the opportunity to address the behavior, and influence decision-making by their children in a positive way.

“Parents need to be involved in our community’s public safety process,” said Mayor Soriano. “I do not support removing the parents’ right to know. As a parent myself we should be given the opportunity to correct the behavior and keep our kids safe. I am in support of legislation to restore parental notification of first underage marijuana and alcohol offenses.”

In November 2020, a referendum on the general election ballot amending the Constitution to legalize a controlled form of marijuana called “cannabis” was approved by a nearly 2-1 vote. On February 22, 2021, Governor Murphy signed three bills into law: A21 which makes “regulated cannabis” legal, A1897 which decriminalizes marijuana possession, and S3454 which outlines rules and penalties for those under 21 caught with illegal substances.

“We value our partnership with parents, the school district, and the town in general in raising and keeping our children safe,” said Police Chief Andrew Miller. “We’ve got SROs working full-time in our schools and officers throughout our community working to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of our kids.”

An important message from the President of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association

Frank L. Cahill
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An important message from the President of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association

MORRIS COUNTY — On February 22, 2021, Governor Murphy signed legislation regarding marijuana laws in New Jersey. There has been a lot of attention on the aspect of the law that forbids police officers from contacting parents when they issue a warning to a minor for a marijuana or alcohol offense. A large number of constituents have reached out to their representatives to express their displeasure. As a result, there are bills being introduced to repeal this portion of the law and we are grateful for this.

There remains another aspect of the newly signed law that needs to be repealed. The legislation prohibits police officers from engaging in certain actions when investigating a person under 21 for possession of marijuana, hashish, cannabis, or alcohol. Importantly, officers who violate these provisions may be charged criminally with depriving the individual of their civil rights, regardless of whether the officer intended to do so.

The prohibited conduct includes:
• Officers shall not ask an individual under 21 for consent to search the person to determine a violation of that crime.
• The odor of marijuana, hashish, or alcohol no longer constitutes reasonable articulable suspicion to initiate a stop of an individual under the age of 21, nor does it provide probable cause to search the person’s personal property or vehicle to determine a violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:33-15(a)(l).
• The unconcealed possession of an alcoholic beverage, marijuana, hashish, or cannabis item in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:33-15(a)(l) that is observed in plain sight shall not constitute probable cause to initiate a search of an individual under the age of 21 or that individual’s personal property or vehicle to determine a violation of any law.
• An individual under the age of 21 who violates N.J.S.A. 2C:33-15(a)(l) shall not be arrested, detained, or otherwise taken into custody except to the extent required to issue a written warning or provide notice of a violation to a parent/guardian unless the person is being arrested, detained, or otherwise taken into custody for also committing another violation of the law for which that action is legally permitted or required.
• When responding to a violation or suspected violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:33-15(a)(l), law enforcement officers fail to activate their body-worn cameras, which must remain activated throughout the encounter.

If a police officer does any of the above they are subject to being charged criminally for a 3rrd degree crime; the penalty being 3-5 years in prison and up to a $15,000 fine. The penalties of this law for police officers are unreasonably harsh and compromises the ability of law enforcement to protect the health and safety of those underages who are breaking the law.

The ballot question which passed last November was to legalize the recreational use of marijuana for adults 21 and older. The legislation that was signed by Governor Murphy essentially eliminates consequences for all persons under 21 for possession of marijuana and alcohol. This is the legislature’s efforts to prevent police officers from investigating and seizing illegal marijuana and alcohol.

The Police Chiefs of the Morris County Association of Chiefs of Police are seriously concerned with this legislation and the impact it will have on our communities and our police officers’ ability to do their jobs. The Chiefs of Police strongly urge you to contact your representatives and urge them to repeal this portion of the legislation.

Stephen Beecher
Chief of Police-Mount Olive
President-Morris County Police Chiefs Association

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