St. Barnabas Medical Center Revised Visiting Guidelines

Frank L. Cahill
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St. Barnabas Medical Center Revised Visiting Guidelines

MORRIS COUNTY  — The safety and well-being of our patients, visitors and staff is our number one priority. Please be aware of the following newly revised guidelines before visiting one of our hospitals or healthcare facilities:

NO VISITORS WILL BE ALLOWED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE in every RWJBarnabas Health hospital and healthcare facility, including Behavioral Health and Outpatient facilities. For a full list of RWJBH hospitals and facilities please click here.

Exceptions may be made in certain circumstances:

  • Pediatric units (only ONE parent/guardian will be permitted)
  • Maternity and Labor & Delivery units (only ONE significant other/support person can visit)
  • Neonatal Intensive Care Units (TWO parents/support persons can visit)
  • Same Day Surgery or Ambulatory Procedures (only ONE person can visit)
  • Pediatric psychiatric patients (only ONE if/when a mutual agreement between the care team and the parents/guardian has been reached)

PLEASE NOTE: Extenuating circumstances (such as hospice) will also be considered based on the best interest and needs of the individual patient.

Emergency Department patients may be accompanied by ONE adult.

Outpatients may be accompanied by ONE adult (unless an aide or assistant is required).

Approved visitors will be screened for the following and may not be allowed to visit or stay based on:

  • Recent international travel history
  • Recent domestic travel to areas with widespread COVID-19 infection
  • Contact with individuals with known COVID-19
  • Cold or flu-like symptoms
  • In addition, all visitors should wash their hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer before and after visiting.

**Individuals 18 years of age and under will not be permitted.

While we are sensitive to the difficulties facing loved ones of hospitalized patients, our healthcare providers must keep patient and staff safety paramount at this unprecedented time.  We encourage family members and friends to use alternative ways to interact with their loved ones, including phone calls, Facetime, Skype and other means.

For the most up-to-date instructions and restrictions for visitation at an RWJBarnabas Health facility click here.

Parsippany Volunteer Firefighters and EMTs stand at the ready

Focus contributor
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Parsippany Volunteer Firefighters and EMTs stand at the ready

PARSIPPANY — Even before the COVID-19 pandemic reached the the world’s collective doorstep, first-responders and emergency medical technicians have stood on the frontlines, often putting their safety on the line to help others in need. Whether it’s virus response, heart attacks, or any other emergency, rescue units are a community’s first line of defense and care. With all that in mind, keeping their training current and front-of-mind is essential to providing the community with the best emergency response possible, especially in these trying times.

Members of the Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad show the use of the Lucas

Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad (Car 65), Parsippany Rescue & Recovery Unit (Car 69), and Rockaway Neck Volunteer First Aid Squad (Car 66) took part in an EMS joint training drill today to integrate the two ambulance squads and rescue unit. The annual training included an off-terrain patient care and extrication activity, skills stations, and fire scene rehab with the PATRIOT trailer on site.

EMTs and First Responders discuss procedure for properly lifting and training

“This [training] was set up before COVID-19,” said Louis Yuliano, Chief of Parsippany Rescue. “With the amount of calls we all handle together, it’s important that all the units are on the same page with equipment and protocols.”

“Its a joint effort,” said Paul Anderson Deputy Chief of Parsippany Rescue. “We all do cross-training on specialty equipment regularly, to know where everything is these emergency vehicles and how to use it.”

Over 40 dedicated volunteers from the three squads were given first-hand presentations on stretchers, stair chairs to take people up and down tight stair-accessible-only exits, the Lucas device – an automated CPR chest compression machine used in ambulances while en route to hospitals, and other life-saving devices.

Members of Parsippany Rescue prepare the vehicle for an off terrain patient

“Parsippany should be comforted knowing that our volunteer first responders are doing the continued training to keep our township safe.” Said Mayor Michael Soriano, in attendance at today’s training.

This joint drill takes place once per year, though the units and teams take part in other trainings regularly year-round. Other drills include auto extrication, rope and high-angle rescue, dive team, elevator rescue, confined space, swift water rescue in the summer, and ice rescue in the winter – both surface and sub-surface.

“We have a great relationship with all of our emergency responders,” Anderson said. “I can look at any of them and know we’re all on the same page. I can be using the Jaws of Life, and know that my counterpart is ready with the next piece of equipment needed without saying a word. That’s all a testament to the dedicated members around us. Everything is fluid.”

For more information on what Parsippany Rescue does and how to become a member click here or call (973) 263-0660.

Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills Celebrates Read Across America Day

Frank L. Cahill
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Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills Celebrates Read Across America Day

PARSIPPANY — Members of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills joined the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) to participate in Read Across America Day this March.  One of GFWC’s Seven Grand Initiatives for its 2018-2020 Administration is for clubs to donate Dr. Seuss books to children in need. March 2 is Read Across America Day, a nationwide observation that marks Dr. Seuss’ birthday and encourages children to celebrate reading. Promoting literacy can be traced back to GFWC’s roots. Read Across America is an opportunity for GFWC clubs to continue the legacy of sharing books and the love of reading with their community.

Parsippany members kicked off their “Week of Dr. Seuss” by partnering with the Lake Hiawatha branch of the Parsippany Library system on Saturday, February 29.  The club provided Dr. Seuss stickers and medals as a favor and raffled off Dr. Seuss books to children attending the story time.

On March 2, Read Across America Day, members dressed up like Cats in Hats and read to the children at the Parsippany Child Day Care Center. The club also provided an afternoon snack and a crayon/coloring book favor to the children.  Dr. Seuss books were donated to the school library.

Also on the 2nd, the club partnered with the main branch of the Parsippany Library for their daytime and evening story times.  The club provided favors and raffled off a free Dr. Seuss book to a child at each story time.  Club members joined in with Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano that evening who read to the children.  Jayne Beline, Parsippany Library Director, accepted Dr. Seuss books donated by the club to the library system.

Wrapping up the Dr. Seuss activities involved reading to the children at Head Start pre-school in Dover on March 11.  Those children also received the crayon/coloring book favor. Amy Tousley, Dover Head Start Education Manager, accepted books donated by the club to the school library.

Lastly, the club donated Dr. Seuss books to the General Federations of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) for distribution in the Washington, DC area, for children in underserved neighborhoods.

In total, 28 Dr. Seuss books were donated and well over 250 favors were given to children to foster their love of reading.  Crisp copies of Fox in Socks, Hop on Pop, In a People’s House, Go Dog Go, Maybe You Should Fly a Jet, etc. are at these local libraries just waiting to be read!

Proceeds for this, and other educational projects, are made possible by the funds raised at the club’s annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic Fundraiser. This year’s Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic & Luncheon will be held on Tuesday, July 14, at the Knoll Country Club West. Contact Marilyn Z., Tee Off for Education Chairperson, at (973) 539-3703 or wcpth.golf.outing@gmail.com for more information.

The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of NJSFWC, which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service.  General Meetings are held the fourth Monday of each month from September to April at 7:00 p.m. at the Lake Parsippany Rescue & Recovery, 100 Centerton Drive. For more information e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com, click here or follow the club on FACEBOOK.

 

A Night of Broadway With Grace Fields has been postponed

Frank L. Cahill
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A Night of Broadway With Grace Fields has been postponed

PARSIPPANY — Due to concerns about the coronavirus and the health and safety of our guests, performers, volunteers and other partners, Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany has decided to postpone “A Night of Broadway With Grace Fields,” which was originally scheduled for Saturday, March 28. The new event date will be announced once confirmed. All tickets purchased through Eventbrite have been refunded.

We thank you for your understanding during this time. Should you have any questions or concerns please contact Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Chairman Nicolas Limanov at (917) 499-7299 or President Frank Cahill at (862) 213-2200.

Freeholders Kickoff 2020 “Morris County Counts” Census Initiative

Frank L. Cahill
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Freeholders Kickoff 2020 “Morris County Counts” Census Initiative

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of Freeholders and community representatives from across the county yesterday issued a joint message to urge all county residents, from all communities, nationalities, religions, races, and ethnic groups, to complete the 2020 Census online, on the phone, or on paper forms in the coming weeks.

In kicking off the “Morris County Counts 2020” campaign, the freeholders and community leaders stressed the importance of getting a complete and accurate count of Morris County’s population to ensure the county gets its fair share of federal and state aid over the coming decade. It also determines New Jersey’s Congressional representation.

“It is vitally important to make sure we are fully counted, to be sure that Morris County is not shortchanged when it comes to getting federal dollars for key county programs over the coming decade,” said Freeholder Director Deborah Smith.

“If we are not fully counted, it has long-term negative ramifications for the amount of federal aid we will get for housing and childcare programs, education, senior and student meal programs, senior and disabled transportation, road and bridge projects, and schools, among many others,” added Freeholder Kathy DeFillippo, also a member of the Complete Count Committee.

Competition for federal dollars is fierce, said the freeholders and the county’s Census Complete Count Committee, headed by County Planning Board Vice Chair Isobel Olcott. The group stressed that federal funding through 2030 will be determined by the upcoming Census count.

Census-guided federal spending on programs in New Jersey is nearly $23 billion annually. About $2.7 billion is directed to Morris County, including $1.8 billion for Social Security benefits paid to county residents, and $600 million from the Department of Defense for programs at Picatinny Arsenal and defense contractors located throughout the county.

The remaining $300 million is distributed to public, private and nonprofit entities in the county. For example, the Morris County Housing Authority received about $9 million annually in federal dollars while the county Office of Community Development gets nearly $3 million annually to distribute for a variety of programs.

The joint message issued today comes as the federal government this week begins inviting New Jersey and Morris County residents to fill out the online version of the Census starting on or about March 12.

For those who don’t use the online method, traditional mailings will be sent to residents later in April, and Census takers in May will knock on doors of residents who have not filled out the Census.

Officials in Morris County, which has an estimated population of 494,228 per the 2018 Census estimate, stressed three key points about the Census: Filling out the Census is safe, easy and important.

  • Safety: Census data will be secure. Your data will not be shared. There is no citizenship question on the Census. You will not be asked for Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, or other very personal data;
  • Ease: You can fill out the Census online this year for the first time. You also can easily respond by mail. Also, the Census is available in many languages.
  • Importance: The Census count determines how much money the federal government allocates for programs in our state and county, and our representation in Congress.

Partners in the county’s 2020 Census effort stressed the importance of the Census.

Eva Turbiner, President & CEO of Zufall Health: “We are glad to collaborate with our community partners to make sure everyone in Morris County is counted for the 2020 census. We will facilitate completion of the census at all of our health center sites and assist community members who need it.’’

Dan McGuire, Executive Director of Homeless Solutions: “Too often, our homeless neighbors feel invisible in their communities. By engaging this hard-to-count population, Homeless Solutions can help Morris County obtain the most accurate Census data, which in turn can be used to attract and target vital resources for our most vulnerable persons.

United Way of Northern N.J. CEO Kiran Handa Gaudioso: “Ensuring an accurate Census count is especially critical to residents who are in poverty and face financial instability. Despite perceptions that New Jersey is a wealthy state, many families struggle paycheck to paycheck. A complete Census count can help these vulnerable families access vital assistance to afford quality child care, housing, health care and other supports.”

Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris, Executive Director Bob Davison: “Morris County understands that all its residents count, and they are going about the business of ensuring everyone is counted. We are proud to be a part of it.”

Key Facts:

  • More than 300 federal spending programs rely on data derived from the Census to guide the geographic distribution of funds to states, counties, cities, and households.
  • Programs that are vital to Morris County, such as Medicare, assistance to older residents and children, transportation and housing programs, community health and environmental programs, and bridge repairs and replacements, among others, are dependent on federal aid.
  • Business and industry use Census data to help determine where to locate their stores and franchises, bringing in new and important jobs.
  • Our state’s representation in Congress also is determined by the Census, with 435 seats in the House of Representatives determined by the Census.

Key Dates:

  • Beginning March 12: Invitations to complete the 2020 Census online will be mailed to residents.
  • April 1 is Census Day: When you respond to the Census, you will use this date to inform the Census where you reside.
  • Beginning April 18: Paper questionnaires will be sent to non-respondents of the online form.
  • May 5: Census enumerators will begin to knock on doors of county households that have not completed a questionnaire.

Have questions about the 2020 Census? Click here.

Morristown Medical Center Builds Triage Tent Adjacent to Emergency Department

Frank L. Cahill
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Morristown Medical Center Builds Triage Tent Adjacent to Emergency Department

MORRIS COUNTY — Morristown Medical Center, part of Atlantic Health System, in partnership with the Morris County Office of Emergency Management and the Morris County Office of Health Management, has announced that today they are building a self-contained, patient triage and assessment system that will be adjacent to the Emergency Department on its Madison Avenue campus.

“We have been proactive in planning for the potential increase in volume in our Emergency Department,” said Trish O’Keefe, President, Morristown Medical Center. “As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, we are well-prepared to take all the necessary precautions to continue to best serve our community.”

If the need should arise, the extension of the Emergency Department will be fully staffed and operational should the hospital experience an increase in volume of patients. The area will have dedicated space for patient evaluations and treatment by qualified medical professionals.

Atlantic Health System’s Morristown Medical Center, located in Morristown, NJ, is a nationally-ranked regional medical center and a recognized leader in cardiovascular medicine, orthopedics, gastroenterology, geriatrics, and nursing. The hospital is nationally and globally recognized for excellence and has been rated the number one hospital in the state of New Jersey by U.S. News & World Report, and first among the New Jersey hospitals in Newsweek’s 2020 “The World’s Best Hospitals 2020.”

NJ Supreme Court Chief Justice Orders Two-week Shutdown of Municipal Courts

Frank L. Cahill
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NJ Supreme Court Chief Justice Orders Two-week Shutdown of Municipal Courts

MORRIS COUNTY — The Chief Justice of New Jersey’s court system has announced a two-week suspension of municipal court sessions to mitigate public exposure to the coronavirus.

Chief Justice Stuart Rabner said Saturday that individuals scheduled to appear through March 27 before a municipal court to contest a traffic or parking ticket or for a minor local ordinance violation should await notice of a new court date.

Municipal courts will continue to handle some things such as applications for temporary restraining orders, hearings in which a defendant has been detained and matters that implicate public safety. Filings and payments will continue to be accepted except where a municipality has closed the municipal court building.

Rabner earlier announced an indefinite suspension in all new jury trials, criminal and civil, in New Jersey due to the coronavirus outbreak. The order Thursday said jury trials already underway will continue and grand jury proceedings will continue pending further communication with county prosecutors and the state attorney general.

NJMVC Extends Expiration Dates for Driver Licenses, Registrations, and Inspections

Frank L. Cahill
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NJMVC Extends Expiration Dates for Driver Licenses, Registrations, and Inspections

From the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission:

Governor Phil Murphy and New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Chief Administrator Sue Fulton have announced that due to the COVID-19 outbreak and to protect the public, the MVC will extend expiration dates for driver licenses, registrations, and inspection stickers.

Effective immediately, the NJMVC will grant a two-month extension for:

  • Driver licenses expiring in March, April, and May
  • Registrations expiring in March, April, and May
  • Inspection stickers expiring in March, April, and May

“All residents who have their driver’s licenses, auto registration, or vehicle inspection due for a renewal by May 31 will receive an automatic two-month extension,” said Governor Murphy. “Keeping New Jerseyans out of crowded Motor Vehicle agencies is another step we can take to limit exposure and hold the line against the spread of COVID-19.”

“Extending the expiration dates will reduce the numbers of customers who come through our agencies daily, helping us to reduce the risk to New Jerseyans,” said Motor Vehicle Commission Chief Administrator Sue Fulton. “We also strongly encourage customers to renew their licenses and registrations online if they are eligible.”

For expiration dates falling in March, the renewal deadline is extended to May; for expiration dates falling in April, the renewal deadline is extended to June; for expiration dates falling in May, the renewal deadline is extended to July.

By law, Chief Administrator Fulton has the authority to extend expiration dates when a State of Emergency has been declared. Governor Murphy declared a State of Emergency and Public Health Emergency on March 9 as part of the state’s coordinated response to limit the spread of COVID-19.

The NJMVC continues to encourage those customers who are eligible to conduct online transactions, including license renewals, vehicle registrations and change of address, to do so by clicking here.

Customers should click here for the latest information and updates.

PHHS Key Club hosts Dinner for Senior Citizens

Frank L. Cahill
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PHHS Key Club hosts Dinner for Senior Citizens

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School Key Club hosted a pasta and meatball dinner to local Senior Citizens before they had the opportunity to preview the Parsippany Hills Players of Parsippany Hills High School, 2019 Spring Musical: Newsies!

The students of PHHS, ranging from Freshmen to Seniors, have been hard at work since January rehearsing nearly every day to bring this Disney classic to life!

Agamya Rao was serving drinks and salads to the guests
Davey Willans, Loretta Gragnani, Adam Gragnani, Joe Jannarone, Sr., Dee dePierro and Michael dePierro
Kaitlin Cirillo and Chloe Vergel de Dios
PHHS Key Club Advisors Bonnie Sturm and Kristine Bushong
Amy Liu, Sobina Kim, Chloe Vergel de Dios and Eunice Kim

The cast of Newsies includes Anthony Paterno, Brianna Davies, Jack Raia, Caroline Berardo, Colin Smith, Rafaella Espinosa, Jake Murphy, Jade Schaffer, Brian Davies,  Nicole Narvaez, Scarlette Horvath, Jack Reppen, Stacey Ikhelson, Charlie Love, Jameson Snyder, Matt Memoli, Meghan Lalo, Vincent Paglucci, Davida Padi, Aiden Waters, Emma Ludvigsen, Ava Cohen, Julia Heller, Ava Ignacio, Adam Roman, Jia Datwani, Kalyna Yurchuk, Matt Bumanlag, Malda Gobena, Tara Bilgeshouse, William Lanza, Allison Paterno, Vanessa Iradi, Kira King, Mia Suarez, Dylan Franz, Bella Brisson, Ava Cohen, Julzi De Stefano, Rhaya Lau, Joyce Luo, Courtney Rizzo, Sanaya Singh, and Alexa Stringham.

Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company holds successful Fish Fry

Frank L. Cahill
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Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company holds successful Fish Fry

PARSIPPANY — The Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company District 2 held a Fish and Chips or Chicken and Chips fundraiser on Friday, March 6 at the firehouse.

The Fish and Chips were prepared by the famous Argyle Restaurant.

Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani, Adam Gragnani, Dee dePierro and Council President Michael dePierro
Mark Robson
The room was packed with guests enjoying the Fish Fry
Paul Carifi, Sr., and Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., and his twin sons Jonathan and Tyler
Doug Reighart and Joey Reeber, Sr.

The Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company District 2 is seeking volunteers. They have monthly meetings held on the first Friday of each month at the Firehouse, 1 Rainbow Trail, Denville. For more information please call (973) 627-7768 or email membership@rlvfc.org.

The volunteers of Parsippany District #2 providing fire protection to the Rainbow Lakes, Interpace Commercial Zone, Lower End of Park Road and the Parsippany Hills High School Area.

Parsippany Planning Board gets first look at PARQ

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Planning Board gets first look at PARQ

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board got its first look at the PARQ proposal on Monday, March 9 in a meeting that was the first of several scheduled in the coming weeks.

The plan is for an upscale mixed-use development encompassing 75 high end townhomes, 525 luxury apartments, 16,000 square feet of experiential retail, invigorating green spaces and state of the art facilities to be known as PARQ Parsippany.

It will also include athletic fields and recreational facilities that will be integrated into the community for public events, sports programs and open to Township residents.

PARQ Parsippany will usher in a new era of Lanidex Plaza, a suburban office complex built in the mid 1970’s to early 1980’s set on 45 acres with 450,000 square feet of commercial office space.

The transformation from Lanidex Plaza to PARQ Parsippany will meet the demand of the ever-changing needs of lifestyle for the next generation while reacclimating the property back into the fiber within Parsippany’s community.

Proposal includes 525 apartments located in Buildings 1 and 2 and 75 three-bedroom Townhomes. In addition Building 1 will contain approximately 2,600 square feet of retail (orange area) and Building 2 will contain approximately 8,140 square feet of retail (orange area).

The proposed development at Lanidex Plaza. Proposal includes 525 apartments located in Building 1 and 2 and 75 three-bedroom Townhomes
Building 1 will consist of 275 units in a six-story building with an attached six-story parking garage. The building will consist of 17 studio apartments, 134 one-bedroom apartments, 60 two-bedroom apartments and 4 three-bedroom apartments. In addition it will include 12 low to moderate income one-bedroom units, 36 low income to moderate two-bedroom units, and 12 three-bedroom low to moderate income housing.
Building 2 will consist of 250 units in a six-story building with an attached six-story parking garage. The building will consist of 26 studio apartments, 144 one-bedroom apartments, and 20 two-bedroom apartments. In addition it will include 12 low to moderate income one-bedroom units, 36 low to moderate income two-bedroom units, and 12 three-bedroom low to moderate income housing.
Typical Three-Bedroom Townhome

The Owners’ have carefully considered and listened to the Township to develop a vision that will reenergize the property and seamlessly integrate it with the design and planning to transcend expectations and compliment the community.

The pool area with spa and sun shelf including, lounge seating and shade structure. Adjacent area includes BBQ grills, billiards and ping pong and bar seating; Lounge seating with a fire pit.

The transformation of the property will commence with Phase I and II in Summer 2020 with anticipated completion in 2025.  The development plan was crafted to accommodate the existing tenants in the complex.

The residential component will include luxury apartments with elegant hotel style lobby, club suite, co-working alcoves, private event rooms, state-of-the-art fitness centers, resort-style pools with BBQ & lounge areas and townhomes which will feature contemporary farmhouse style architecture with a private clubhouse, outdoor pool and highly amenitized indoor & outdoor spaces.

Phase I includes the development of the 75 Townhomes. It is estimated that phase will take sixteen months to complete. Phase II includes Building 1, expected to take twenty months to complete. Phase III (Building 2) will start construction approximately twelve months after the completion of Phase II, and will take approximately twenty months to complete.

The next hearing will be Monday, April 6 at 7:30 p.m. at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard.

Click here to view the Planning Board Meeting of Monday, March 9.

Morris County Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Possession of Child Pornography

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Possession of Child Pornography

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Acting Chief of Investigations Chris Kimker announce that on Friday, March 13, Alexander Willadsen, 31, Rockaway, was sentenced to ten years in New Jersey State Prison by the Honorable David H. Ironson for Possession of Child Pornography.

Mr. Willadsen will also be subject to registration pursuant to Megan’s Law and Parole Supervision for Life.

On October 19, 2019, Mr. Willadsen pled guilty to Possession of Child Pornography and admitted that he utilized his home computer to upload over 1,000 images of child pornography between the dates of January 27, 2017 and November 9, 2018.

The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office was first alerted to the computer upload by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

The State was represented by Assistant Prosecutor Laura Magnone and the lead investigator was Detective / Supervisor Jazmin Munoz-Felder.

 

Community Update from the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills

Frank L. Cahill
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Community Update from the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills

PARSIPPANY —  Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano has released the following information:

The COVID-19 pandemic is changing how we congregate and celebrate how we live in Parsippany-Troy Hills. As has been stated in the past, this is not the time to panic, but it is the time to be prepared.

There have been many cancellations and postponements of events and programs in the area of which we should all be made aware. Below is the most up-to-date list of cancellations, closures, and postponements as of 6:30 p.m. on Friday, March 13:

Event Cancellations:

• Coffee With A Cop at Farmers Insurance March 24.
• Easter Bunny Celebration at the PAL on March 28.
• Crime Prevention Tips Public Seminar at the PAL April 16.

Closures:
• All Parsippany Schools will be closed Tuesday, March 17, until Friday, March 27.
• Parsippany Library will be closed Tuesday, March 17, until Friday, March 27.
• The Knoll Community Center is closed to the public for group activities and programs (unless noted below) until further notice. For more information please contact the Knoll Senior Community Center at (973) 263-7163.

Postponements:
• Parsippany Recreation Department: All events, sports, registrations, and travel programs.
• Parsippany Police Department: Any requests for Tours of Police Headquarters by schools or community groups cannot be entertained at this time. Additionally, any requests for Crime, Safety or Security Presentations for our corporate, neighborhood or religious organizations are also on hold until further notice. For more information, please contact the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department.
• PAL: All games, activities, events, and registrations are closed for the weekend. These will be revisited on Monday.
• Other community organizations, non-profit and religious groups have also postponed and or suspended activities. Please check with individual groups for more information.

Remaining Open & Operational:
Specific Knoll Senior Community Center Programs:
• All lunch meals and nutrition programs will be home delivered starting Monday, March 16.
• Tax preparation assistance will continue, and will be arranged with social distancing in mind.
• The food pantry will remain open.
• Transportation to doctor appointments and supermarkets will continue on a day-to-day basis.
• Transportation to doctors and supermarket will continue. For more info, contact the Knoll Senior Community Center at (973)263-7163.
• Health Department, Office on Aging, and EMS offices will remain open for business as usual, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information call the Health Department at (973) 263-7160, or the Office on Aging at (973) 263-7351.

Department of Public Works:
• Senior transit service will remain operational, however it will be re-evaluated on a day-to-day basis. For more info call (862) 325-7659.
• Knoll Golf Club: will remain open as of now. However check with the Knoll prior to traveling over there. They can be reached at (973) 263-7111.

Resources:
Please note, the situation is ever-changing and very fluid because it is a new virus, and it is important to check credible sources for the most accurate and beneficial information and guidance.

• New Jersey Department of Health – Click here.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Click here.
• As well as the Environmental Protection Agency – Click here.

We suggest that you routinely check in on these sites to get the latest information.

A hotline number has been dedicated for information on the COVID-19 virus and is available for questions and concerns: 1-800-222-1222.

Update: Superintendent of Schools Friday Update

Frank L. Cahill
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Update: Superintendent of Schools Friday Update

PARSIPPANY — Dr. Barbara Sargent, Superintendent of Schools, has issued the following statement:

I am writing to outline decisions regarding our school schedule for the next several weeks. The following actions are designed to slow the spread of COVID-19 and to protect the health and well-being of our community. I have communicated this plan to our Township Health Officer and our Board of Education.

    1. Effective Friday, March 13, the district will suspend activities that are not directly related to the essential educational functions of our schools. This includes:
  • All high-density gathering events (concerts, drama productions, etc.) are suspended until further notice;
  • All field trips and competitions are suspended until further notice;
  • Our school facilities will be closed to all outside groups with the exception of
    SKIP, which will offer Before Care on Monday, March 16 only. SKIP will not meet
    after that.
  • Interscholastic scrimmages and practices are cancelled until further notice.

2. We will continue with a Half Inservice Day on Monday, March 16. There will be a half-day of school and we will use the afternoon for instructional planning. This is important so families may pick up medication from the Nurse’s Office, students without access to technology at home can be assigned a Chromebook, long-term assignments/books can be picked up, and personal items can be brought home.

3. The district will be closed on Tuesday, March 17 and treated as a Snow Day. The district will remain closed through Friday, March 27. We will re-assess and communicate again at that time.

4. Distance Learning will begin on Wednesday, March 18. The district submitted a Health-Related Closure Plan (available on our district website) to the County Superintendent and our Board of Education. This plan allows our district to receive credit toward the 180-day state requirement. Parents will need to log into Genesis in the event that their children are ill and unable to do schoolwork from home.

5. Families eligible for Free and Reduced Meals will be able to pick up “Grab and Go” meals at the front entrance to Parsippany Hills High School (West side of town) and the front entrance to Parsippany High School (East side of town) between 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon beginning Wednesday, March 18.

6. Should Governor Murphy declare a mandatory closure, I will communicate a revised plan.

We are committed to the safety of our students, staff, and the community, as well as for continuing quality education for our students. Please know that our school principals and senior leadership will all be working and available for questions or concerns that may arise. We welcome your communication.

Governor Murphy and Health Commissioner Persichilli Hold Coronavirus Briefing

Frank L. Cahill
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Governor Murphy and Health Commissioner Persichilli Hold Coronavirus Briefing

Governor Phil Murphy and Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli hold a coronavirus briefing at the New Jersey Regional Operations & Intelligence Center in Ewing on March 13, 2020.

Parsippany PAL Temporarily Closes due to Coronavirus

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany PAL Temporarily Closes due to Coronavirus

PARSIPPANY — A message from Sam Yodice, Sam Yodice, Executive Director, Parsippany Police Athletic League:

After significant thought and consideration regarding the COVID-19 situation, I am writing with an update as to the precautionary steps the PAL is taking for the safety and well-being of our program participants, families and staff. PAL scheduled activities for this weekend would have brought the volume of residents well over 700 people on Saturday, March 14, with that volume would come an inability to properly disinfect the building throughout the day. Therefore, we have made the decision that ALL games/activities, day/night events from March 12 through March 15 will be been postponed or canceled. The PAL will revisit this closure on Monday, March 16; at that point, we will make a decision on activities on a week to week basis.

After many conversations and guidance from health officials, it is my decision that the PAL close this facility through the weekend. Residents are asked to be cautious about rumors and some less-than-accurate reports about this virus. Our responsibility is to keep informed by obtaining information from trusted and reliable sources, including the CDC, NJDOH, and not rely on certain media outlets and social media. Social distancing in all forms is the best method of controlling this outbreak. Community spread is low at this time, therefore social distancing techniques might have the greatest impact in keeping our community safe.

Please know that our respective staff members will do their best to reschedule programming at a later date. Our PAL continues to maintain our proactive approach to cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting our facility. As you can understand, these are difficult decisions to make. However, our number one priority is the health and safety of all. I respectfully ask for all of us to be mindful of our health as well as the health of the PAL families.

Once again, thank you for your continued patience and collaboration during this time. As always, please feel free to reach out to me with any questions.

CCM to Close Campus Early for Spring Break

Frank L. Cahill
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CCM to Close Campus Early for Spring Break

MORRIS COUNTY — As part of its efforts to best protect the health of its students, employees and the greater community against a COVID-19 outbreak, County College of Morris (CCM) has decided to close early for its Spring Break. All on-campus classes are canceled for Friday, March 13, and the campus will close at 1:00 p.m. Online and off-campus classes will be held as scheduled.

The college had announced on Wednesday that it had decided to close its campus in conjunction with its Spring Break, which starts Monday, March 16, to allow for a thorough deep cleaning and sanitizing process. The earlier closing has been implemented to provide an even higher level of protection.

Normal campus activities, including office hours and operations, will be suspended during Spring Break, which ends Sunday, March 22.

During Spring Break, individuals can continue to apply to the college, submit financial aid applications and register for classes online on the CCM website by clicking here.

Many of the events that were scheduled to take place at CCM this spring have been canceled, postponed or modified. For a list of those events and their status click here.

It is possible that the campus may remain closed beyond Spring Break. Updates regarding any additional campus closure will be provided by clicking here.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – March 9, 2020

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – March 9, 2020

Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – March 9, 2020

Click here for agenda.

2020 US Open International Taekwondo Championships

Frank L. Cahill
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2020 US Open International Taekwondo Championships

PARSIPPANY — Miracles USA Taekwondo celebrates the achievements of its elite competition team at the 2020 US Open International Taekwondo Championships held at ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando, FL from February 27 to March 1.  The competition team earned a total of nine medals in a variety of Taekwondo disciplines.

The following athletes were awarded medals:

Isaiah Gonsalves – World Class Freestyle Division – Individual
Magda Greco – World Class Freestyle Division – Individual

Bronze Medals
Lucas Jong, Lou-Fei Sung, Connie Lee – World Class Junior Division Poomsae – Team
Philip Jong, Joshua Lee, Jaden Mach – World Class Cadet Division Poomsae – Team

Joshua Aguirre – Dragon Division Poomsae – Individual

Miracles USA Taekwondo also thanks Master Kim’s Taekwondo Institute of Rochester, NY, and KIMA of Hershey, PA, for their collaboration with our Miracles team. Congratulations to their athletes for their medal-winning Poomsae performances with our team.

The Miracles USA Taekwondo competition team is now looking forward to participating in the 2020 USA Taekwondo National Championships.

Miracles USA Taekwondo is located at Parsippany Shopping Plaza, 374 Route 46, Parsippany.

Morris County Government Leading Response to Coronavirus

Frank L. Cahill
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0
Morris County Government Leading Response to Coronavirus

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of Freeholders is closely monitoring the situation regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) and has authorized county funding for needs related to this issue.  Morris County will employ an epidemiologist and a public health nurse, allowing for a more rapid response to local issues that arise in conjunction with coronavirus.

The Morris County Office of Emergency Management and Office of Health Management are coordinating regularly with officials in all 39 Morris County towns, school districts, and major healthcare providers.

“Morris County has proven time and time again that when the challenges are the greatest, it is the bond that we have fostered with our local governing bodies that will make us successful,” said Freeholder Director Deborah Smith.

Officials across the county are working in concert with the state Department of Health and federal agencies to ensure they have the latest information to best deal with the virus. In particular, county officials are working closely with Atlantic Health and Saint Clare’s Health.

Connections have also been made with the large network of nonprofits that serve Morris County.  It is vital that these providers are able to continue to provide the diverse and often essential support to the community.

“County residents should be assured that we are taking all necessary steps to be prepared to deal with this virus,’’ said Freeholder Tom Mastrangelo. “Significant coordination has occurred and will continue to occur so that resources may be shared in the most effective way.’’

  • Morris County is working with health and medical professionals to take extra precautions at county government facilities, including the Correctional Facility, Juvenile Detention Center, Youth Shelter, and 9-1-1 Communications Center;
  • The Morris County Sheriff’s Office is working in partnership with the Morris County OEM to support all operational activities.
  • The Morris County Communications (9-1-1) Center has implemented call screening tools for emergency medical calls to identify potential COVID-19 cases at the time of dispatch, so first responders can be aware of relevant information and take appropriate precautions;
  • Morris County OEM’s Mobile Ambulance Bus will have added equipment on board capable of assessing large numbers of patients in connection with COVID-19, if needed.
  • County OEM is encouraging EMS responders, physicians, and healthcare facilities operators to make early notifications to hospitals, allowing hospitals to be prepared for patient admission prior to arrival.

The following are tips provided by the Morris County Office of Health Management (consistent with CDC recommendations) to protect yourself and others from respiratory infections, including the coronavirus (COVID-19):

  • Stay home if you are sick;
  • Limit close contact with people who are sick;
  • Put distance between yourself and other people. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth;
  • Avoid handshakes. Try an elbow bump;
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds;
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol;
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces, such as door handles and cellphones;
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, use your sleeve (not your hands);
  • Get a flu shot to prevent the flu if you have not done so this season.

Residents are asked to avoid rumors and some less-than-accurate reports about this virus. Keep informed by obtaining information from trusted and reliable sources, including the CDC, NJDOH, and their local health departments:

Click here for CDC’s COVID-19 website.

Click here for N.J. Department of Health COVID-19 website:

NJ COVID-19 Information Public Call Center: 1-800-222-1222.

For your local health department, see the Morris County Office of Health Management click here.

 

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