Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany held sold-out “Comedy Show”

Frank L. Cahill
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Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany held sold-out “Comedy Show”

PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany hosted their first “Comedy Night” Fundraiser on Friday, December 8.

Jackie Byrne, hosted the event featuring Don Michaloski, Bob Gonzo and Stephanie Holmes. The feature headliner was KC Arora.

Event Chairman Gordon Meth said “The Comedy Night Fundraiser that I chaired for my Kiwanis Club was a large success. It was well attended, and everyone laughed all night. We also had more non-Kiwanians in attendance than Kiwanians. All the comedians were really funny, but the headliner, KC Arora, was hilarious! My kids, Kyle and Jake, were laughing hysterically through his whole set. We also netted around $1,000 to help us continue serving our community.” He continued “Special thanks go out to Jackie Byrne, Bob Gonzo, Stephanie Holmes, KC Arora, and the organizer/comedian Don Michalowski for putting together a great show; Connie Keller for working the door, Frank Cahill for arranging the facility, helping with the planning, and taking care of so many little things, Nick Limanov for getting coffee, helping with the planning, and helping set up and cleanup, Carol Tiesi and Karen DeChristopher for helping set up and cleanup, Lindsay Jawar, Laura Donnelly, Casey Parikh for helping plan the event and selling so many tickets, Don Michalowski for planning the session and arranging a good group of comedians based on the specifications we discussed, and my kids, Parsippany High School Key Club members Kyle and Jake for selling concessions and helping clean up.”

KC Arora is a New York-based comedian that should definitely be on your radar. His biting observational humor and sarcastic charm had the audience doubled over with laughter.

When KC isn’t performing across the U.S., you can find him hanging out in comedy clubs around New York City or Twitter (@KCGotIdeas).

KC made his first national, non-court related TV appearance on Laughs on FOX in 2015, and has been on the rise ever since. After making almost a dozen appearances on Laughs on Fox, he was seen on SeeSo’s New York’s Funniest. TruTV’s Late Night Snack and was a semi-finalist in NBC’s Standup for Diversity. KC made it to the final four of Caroline’s March Madness competition.

The event was held at Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, 100 Centerton Road.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets at the Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46 every Thursday morning at 7:15 a.m.  If you are interested in joining our dedicated volunteers, join us for breakfast. For additional information you can email Frank Cahill at flcahill@parsippanykiwanis.org.

Photos by Joanne Rich

West Caldwell Pack 9 holds Flapjack Fundraiser at Applebee’s

Frank L. Cahill
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West Caldwell Pack 9 holds Flapjack Fundraiser at Applebee’s

PARSIPPANY — West Caldwell Pack 9 holds a Flapjack Fundraiser at Applebee’s, 1057 Route 46.

Parents, residents, children and friends came out on Sunday morning, December 10 to support the cub scouts.

Santa arrived in time for the children to tell him what they wanted for Christmas. Santa was also checking his list to make sure the children were good all year.

The breakfast consisted of pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs, coffee, tea or orange juice.

Applebee’s offers the “Flapjack” fundraiser to qualified organizations. For more information click here.

Toys for Tots delivers joy, smiles

Frank L. Cahill
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Toys for Tots delivers joy, smiles

PARSIPPANY — The United States Marine Corps has an unofficial ethos of work hard, play hard. When Maj. Bill Hendricks was unable to find a place where his wife could donate a Raggedy Ann doll at Christmas in 1947, he initiated work and play with the formation of a charitable effort in Los Angeles.

During that first year, a group of local Marines placed bins outside Warner Bros. movie theaters and collected nearly 5,000 toys. Their efforts were so successful that, in 1948, Toys for Tots was launched as a national campaign with a primary goal to deliver a message of hope to youth that will assist them in becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens.

Since that time, the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program has grown to touch the lives of around seven million less fortunate children each year at Christmas. American Legion chapters are active across the nation in supporting the annual toy drive.

On Sunday, December 10, residents gathered at the American Legion Post 249, 91 North Beverwcyk Road to continue the tradition.

Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived to take pictures with all the children.  Families donated a toy for Toys for Tots and volunteers from American Legion cooked hot dogs, chicken nuggets and macaroni and cheese. If you didn’t come with a toy, then you had to donate $5.00 to the cause.

“It’s just fantastic to see groups like this step up in the community,” said Vice President of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Robert Peluso. “I’m just proud to be a resident of Parsippany. My neighbors are my heroes. These groups are pulling together and doing the right thing for everyone.”

Although Toys for Tots is designed to be a program for local children in the United States, the program went international on three occasions. The first followed the catastrophic typhoon that devastated the city of Nagoya, Japan, in 1959. The other two occasions were to the Republic of Panama following the invasion in 1988 and to the Caribbean following Hurricane Hugo in 1989.

Parsippanong Post 249 American Legion was chartered on August 13, 1935, and has grown considerably to include the more than 160 members today. They serve the Township of Parsippany Troy-Hills and the surrounding area in Morris County. The post is located in the Lake Hiawatha section of town.

Post 249 is both a veterans’ organization and an involved community member. We provide a variety of services, programs and awards. Our affiliated American Legion Auxiliary Unit 249 and our Sons of the American Legion Squadron 249 provide additional programs.

Phoenix is looking for a new home: He is a 10-month old male Lab Pit mix

Frank L. Cahill
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Phoenix is looking for a new home: He is a 10-month old male Lab Pit mix

PARSIPPANY — Meet Phoenix! Phoenix is a stunning 10-month old male Lab Pit mix. He is a big boy at 65 pounds but with an even bigger heart! He always aims to please and is very loyal. Phoenix is a sweetheart and would be very content cuddling on the couch with you! Especially if it involves a belly rub or two. He has the sweetest personality that can bring a smile to anyone’s face. Phoenix loves being the center of attention and has never met a person he hasn’t liked!

Phoenix would like to go home with you and sleep in a nice warm house

In his foster home, he has already mastered commands sit, come, focus, wait, and is working on roll over and down! Phoenix has even worked with a professional trainer and has done wonderfully! She says he is very smart and highly trainable. Phoenix is potty trained and crate trained, and walks perfectly on leash! Phoenix loves other dogs and enjoys the company of his foster sister, Piper. He also goes to playgroup every day and makes lots of new friends. You could say he is quite the social butterfly! Because he is a big, young pup, it would be best if he goes into a home with children above the age of 16.

You could not ask for a more perfect puppy! Phoenix was rescued from a shelter in Newark where he was found alone and scared for the future. Now that he is out of harm’s way, Phoenix is so excited to find a forever home!

If you are interested in adopting Phoenix, please fill out an application by clicking here.

Follow Wise Animal Rescue on Instagram by clicking here.
Like Wise Animal Rescue on Facebook by clicking here.

Wise Animal Rescue’s goal is to find the perfect family dynamic and place our dogs in a loving, safe and permanent home. All of our dogs available for adoption are spayed/neutered, up-to-date on shots and microchipped.

Our adoption process starts with filling an application, home visit, meet and greet and then finalizing with an adoption contract and fee.

Adoption fees range from about $200.00 to $500.00. These fees help defray costs of veterinary and foster care and are tax deductible.

The snow arrived in time for “Lake Hiawatha Snowflake Festival”

Frank L. Cahill
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The snow arrived in time for “Lake Hiawatha Snowflake Festival”

PARSIPPANY — The Friends of Lake Hiawatha held their annual “Lake Hiawatha Snowflake Festival” on Saturday, December 9 along North Beverwyck Road by the Gazebo.

The snow was still falling as the Brownie’s, Daisy and Girl Scouts were signing the Christmas favorite songs. Jingle Bell Rock, Deck The Halls, Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, Snow Days and more.

Everyone was served hot chocolate, cookies and candy canes as Santa arrived by Firetruck.

Santa greeted all the children and parents were taking pictures of their children.

Santa arrives by firetruck at Applebee’s; in time for Toys for Tots fundraiser

Frank L. Cahill
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Santa arrives by firetruck at Applebee’s; in time for Toys for Tots fundraiser

PARSIPPANY — Applebee’s located at 1157 Route 46, Troy Hills Shopping Center – as well as those across the state – held a Breakfast with Santa fundraiser on Saturday, December 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. to support the U.S. Marines Corps Toys for Tots program.

In addition to food, guests received toys donated by Sons of Italy and pictures with Santa.

All of the proceeds from the breakfast and donated toys were given to Toys for Tots.

“We are proud to continue our partnership with Toys for Tots for the 2017 holiday season,” said Doherty Enterprises Chief Executive Officer Ed Doherty. “The holidays are such a special time to give back to our local communities. We love interacting with our guests at every level to provide a fun-filled morning for all to enjoy the spirit of the season. We are thrilled to be able to support this amazing organization and encourage everyone to come out for a fantastic day of holiday cheer and charitable giving.”

PHHS is accepting Hall of Fame nominations

Frank L. Cahill
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PHHS is accepting Hall of Fame nominations

james barberioPARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School is accepting nominations for its Hall of Fame.  The PHHS Hall of Fame recognizes and honors PHHS graduates and staff members who have distinguished themselves during their time at PHHS and/or in their careers in their fields of work or service.  Recognition will be given but not limited to accomplishment in the fields of: Music, School Services, Fine Arts, Medicine, Business, Journalism, Politics, Athletics, Education, Science, Armed Forces, Community Service.

In the case of a staff member, the nominee must have been a member of the professional staff (including non-teacher coaches and activity advisors), who has retired or left the employ of Parsippany Hills High School.

The person being nominated DOES NOT have to be a college graduate. Posthumous nominations WILL BE accepted. (Click here for complete nomination information)

Inductees are selected from five categories:

Academic and/or Career
Recognized as a respected leader in his or her profession who has demonstrated unique talents and/or career accomplishments and has helped improve the quality of life.

Athletic
Recognized for outstanding athletic accomplishments while attending Parsippany Hills High School.

Cultural/Performing Arts
Recognized for achievements in the cultural, visual, performing arts and/or for contributions to the promotion of cultural activities on a local, state and/or national level.

Major Contributions to Parsippany Hills High School
Recognized for promoting Parsippany Hills High School and, by example or by sustained contribution, serving as a major influence in the lives of PHHS students.

Special Honorary Achievement
Recognized for special contributions and service to Parsippany Hills High School and to the community, although not necessarily a graduate.

The nominees to be inducted into the Parsippany Hills Hall of Fame will be honored at an annual ceremony. Recipients will receive an engraved memento and will be recognized on a plaque in the hall of Parsippany Hills High School.

The Parsippany Hills High School Hall of Fame was established to honor graduates and faculty of Parsippany Hills high School who have demonstrated exceptional achievements in their field or made unique contributions to their community.

The committee evaluates each nominee on three criteria:

1.  Recognized excellence in one’s field/profession

2.  Service and dedication to Parsippany Hills High School

3.  Contributions to professional and civic organizations

Nomination forms can be found by clicking here. Be sure to include all requested information. Letter of nomination; Resume of the nominee’s accomplishments (not to exceed three pages) and any additional supporting documentation (not to exceed three pages).

All forms are due by January 31 and must be mailed to Susan A. Bonnet, Parsippany Hills High School, 20 Rita Drive, Morris Plains, N.J. 07950 or e-mail to sbonnet@pthsd.net.

Breakfast with Santa at Parsippany Child Day Care Center

Frank L. Cahill
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Breakfast with Santa at Parsippany Child Day Care Center

PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, December 9 the children at Parsippany Child Day Care Center enjoyed a breakfast and a visit from Santa sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

Nicolas Limanov, co-director of Young Children Priority One, and Joe Jannarone, Jr., President of Sons of Italy volunteered and prepared the breakfast which consisted of scrambled eggs, turkey sausage, pancakes, bagels and muffins.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany invites Santa and cooks up a breakfast and supplies gifts for the children every year.

Kiwanis is a worldwide service organization in over 96 nations. The major emphasis is serving the children of the world.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany picks service projects that need attention. The Club is all local people that volunteer time and talents to make our community a better place to live. We, like you, are busy with making a living, church, family, and many other activities.

The children received wooden puzzles, coloring books and crayons from Santa as well as a goodie bag.

The Parsippany Child Day Care Center was incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1968. They opened with 20 children and expanded to meet the growing need for quality child care in our community. In 1980, they moved into a new building specifically designed for child care and owned by the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills. During the 1990s, the building was renovated with two additions to the building, which made room for infants and young toddlers. They are governed by a Board of Trustees, who are volunteers from our community.

The facility was designed specifically for the care of children, and was built with HUD funding. The center has a total of seven classrooms, a large multipurpose room, a full service kitchen, offices, adult and children’s lavatories.

The center is comprised of a diverse population of families and staff. They come from a variety of backgrounds and speak multiple languages from all over the globe.

A very unique relationship exists between the center and Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills. Parsippany built the original building and owns it. A self-renewing contract allows for joint responsibility for repairs and building upkeep. Primarily the center maintains the building and the town maintains the property. They also have strong ties with civic organizations within Parsippany, including but not limited to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills and the Sons of Italy.

Parsippany Child Day Care Center is located at 300 Baldwin Road. For more information, click here.

Parsippany wrestlers attend Virginia National Duals Wrestling tournament

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany wrestlers attend Virginia National Duals Wrestling tournament

PARSIPPANY — Three wrestlers are representing Parsippany at the Virginia National Duals Wrestling tournament in Virginia Beach this weekend.

The Virginia Challenge Holiday Duals is a National Level Competition Event that is Sanctioned by USA Wrestling. Each year it is the endeavor to bring in quality, national caliber teams/clubs and wrestlers to one site and compete for the prestigious National Holiday Duals Championships.

60 Elementary and 60 Middle School Teams. Every team gets 10 matches.
 Elementary is K-6 (no 7th grade, not born before 2004) 3 – 90 sec periods
Official Elementary Weights- 45, 50, 55, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 140 (+1) and
Middle School is 6-8 grades (no 9th grade not born before 2002) 3 – 90 sec periods
Official Middle School Weights- 70, 75, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100, 105, 112, 119, 126, 135, 150, 180, 230 (+1)

 

From left to right, Mario Fornini, Adrian DeJesus and Cross Wasilewki

Merry Christmas from Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Department

Frank L. Cahill
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Merry Christmas from Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Department

PARSIPPANY —Santa arrived at Lake Parsippany firehouse on Saturday, December 9 to greet the children, take pictures, find out their wish list and give gifts.

Ten-month old Brielle Hedden and Stefanie Serpico with Santa
Eleven-month old Hannah and three-year old Leo Shipon with Santa
Parsippany resident Connie Keller and Santa

Santa stays in the firehouse rather than going around on the fire trucks because it’s safer for the children and gives him the opportunity to talk with each child to hear those special Christmas wishes.

Other fire districts in Parsippany will drive Santa around to the neighborhoods and gave out treats.

Write to Santa; Receive a response back from North Pole

Frank L. Cahill
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NORTH POLE — Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus — and the U.S. Postal Service can help you prove it when Santa replies to your child’s letter — complete with a North Pole postmark.

Here are the steps for your child to get a letter back from Santa:

  • Have your child write a letter to Santa and place it in an envelope addressed to: Santa Claus, North Pole.
  • Later, when alone, open the envelope and write a personalized response.
  • Insert the response letter into an envelope and address it to the child.
  • Add the return address: SANTA, NORTH POLE, to the envelope.
  • Affix a First-Class Mail stamp, such as a new Christmas Carols Forever stamp to the envelope.
  • Place the complete envelope into a larger envelope — preferably a Priority Mail Flat Rate envelope — with appropriate postage and address it to:

North Pole Postmark
Postmaster
4141 Postmark Drive
Anchorage, AK 99530-9998

“Letters from Santa” must be received by the Anchorage, AK, postmaster no later than December 15. Santa’s helpers at the Postal Service will take care of the rest.

Be sure to share the experience on social media using #LettersFromSanta.

Tips

  • To save paper, write Santa’s response on the back of your child’s letter. If you keep them together, your child will also be able to recall what he or she wrote.
  • When responding as Santa, make the response as personal as possible by highlighting your child’s accomplishments over the past year, for example, helping around the house, receiving good grades in a particular subject at school or participating in community service activities.
  • This is a great activity to do at Thanksgiving that the whole family can enjoy, including parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and other caregivers.

The Letters from Santa program adds to the excitement of Christmas and is ideal for interesting youngsters in letter writing, stamps and penmanship.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

Pennacchio Reiterates Call for Elimination of $10k Property Tax Deduction Cap

Frank L. Cahill
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Pennacchio Reiterates Call for Elimination of $10k Property Tax Deduction Cap
Senator Joe Pennacchio

MORRIS COUNTY — During a New Jersey Senate session on Thursday, December 7, Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-Essex, Morris, Passaic) reiterated his proposal to abolish New Jersey’s $10,000 property tax deduction limit. He made the following statement on the Senate floor:

“I, too, want to lend my name to the chorus of opposition to the removal of SALT deductions from our Federal tax returns. But at this point, it seems all we are doing is complaining. However, we do have comparable issues with non-deductibility of Federal taxes from our State returns. There are a myriad of deductions that New Jersey does not allow, such as charitable deductions, capital gains, and 401(k) contributions.

“The U.S. House of Representatives version of tax reform allows a $10,000 deduction for property taxes. Currently, there is no maximum. Unfortunately, there is a maximum on what our state allows us to deduct. New Jersey’s tax burden, I may add, is the highest in the nation. That deduction is no different than what Congress is proposing – a $10,000 maximum!

“It is not within the State Legislature’s direct power to change Federal tax reform. However, it is within our power to change New Jersey tax policies. Let’s be honest and consistent with the citizens of our state. You cannot complain about Federal tax policy when we have it within our power to change the same policy on the State level. Let’s soften the blow of those Federal SALT eliminations.

“My bill, S-3598, would lift the maximum deduction allowed by the state and in doing so slightly reduce the burden on New Jersey Taxpayers. Let’s not just complain about our suffocating taxes. Let’s do something about it.”

Parsippany Police Officers Raise $2,500 for Cancer Research

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Police Officers Raise $2,500 for Cancer Research

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police and the Parsippany PBA #131 raised over $2,5000 for cancer research during No-Shave November.

For the first time, Parsippany police officers stopped shaving during November to raise money for Zero: The End of Prostate Cancer.

Thanks to public and department donations, they were able to raise $2,500.

In October, the department raised $1,000 for breast cancer research.

To learn more about the charity, click here.

Parsippany resident Michael Soriano joins Kiwanis Club

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany resident Michael Soriano joins Kiwanis Club

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany resident Michael Anthony Soriano joins Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Frank Cahill had the honor of inducting Soriano into the club.

Cahill encourages all members to learn all you can about Kiwanis, and to strengthen your own leadership and communication skills by actively participating in the activities of the club, including attending weekly meetings, social events, and service projects.

“Kiwanis is something so good that each of us loves to share it. What better way to show our love for our club and our community than to welcome a new member into our club? Today we’re very pleased to welcome Michael Soriano to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany,” said President Frank Cahill.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is holding its first Comedy Night on Friday, December 8 to a sold out crowd.

On Saturday, December 9, members of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany will be preparing breakfast with Santa at the Parsippany Child Day Care Center.

In addition, Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is collecting children’s socks, underwear and winter hats to donate to children domestic violence at Jersey Battered Women’s Service (JBWS).

Karen DeChristopher, Co-Director Young Children Priority One, said between now and December 13 Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is seeking donations of children’s socks, underwear and winter hats for ages three to sixteen, both male and female. Items can be dropped off at IHOP, 792 Route 46 or Boiling Springs Saving Bank, 66 North Beverwyck Road.

Jersey Battered Women’s Service in Morris County is a full-service domestic violence and domestic abuse prevention agency with volunteer opportunities. The services include a 24-hour hotline; counseling; safe house; transitional living; children’s services; life skills education; vocational counseling; batterers’ intervention; legal assistance; teen dating violence services; and professional training, education and youth prevention programs.

A new member for our club means new ideas, new enthusiasm, greater fellowship—and greater service.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets at the Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46 every Thursday morning at 7:15 a.m.  If you are interested in joining our dedicated volunteers, join us for breakfast. For additional information you can email Frank Cahill at flcahill@parsippanykiwanis.org.

 

A Special Homecoming for the Governor’s Home Club Visit

Frank L. Cahill
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A Special Homecoming for the Governor’s Home Club Visit

PARSIPPANY — Forty-seven clubs to visit, but she actually made forty-six visits before Rotary District Governor Peggy Mader returned to her home club on December 6. She traveled from Hackettstown to Belleville with towns in between starting in July.

The celebration was held at Il Villaggio Restaurant located on Gibraltar Drive, at the Wednesday 12:15 meeting of the Parsippany Club. Peggy’s message with “Rotary: Making A Difference” will continue to be her theme for the balance of the Rotary 2017-2018 year.

Rotary District 7470 is 47 local Rotary Clubs serving, Essex, Morris, Sussex, Warren Counties and Bernardsville.

Rotary Theme “Rotary: Making A Difference”
A Special Homecoming for the Governor’s Home Club Visit at Il Villagio on Wednesday, December 6

While the Governor’s Visit to his or her home club is always a celebratory event, this meeting had special significance, since Peggy and her husband Maurie, who she met at Rotary, were Governors of District 7470.

The purpose of the visits is:

  • To allow the District Governor to communicate directly with all Rotarians in our District.
  • To listen to the Club Leadership and gain better understanding of their club. To provide helpful and friendly advice to club officers as requested and to answer questions about Rotary International and the District.
  • To serve as a catalyst to help strengthen the programs of Rotary.
  • To meet the requirements that Rotary International sets for serving in the office of District Governor.

Peggy’s Visitation Schedule:

July 18 Tuesday Denville Sunrise 7:47
July  19 Wednesday Mendham 6:30
July  25 Tuesday Belvidere 6:30
July  28 Friday West Orange 12:15
Aug 1 Tuesday Caldwell 12:00
Aug 9 Wednesday Montville 7:30
Aug 10 Thursday Wharton 12:15
Aug 14 Monday Washington 6:15
Aug 15 Tuesday Fairfield 7:47
Aug 16 Wednesday Pequannock 12:15
Aug 17 Thursday Belleville 12:15
Aug 18 Friday Morris Plains 7:47
Aug 22 Tuesday Hackettstown 12:15
Aug 22 Tuesday Irvington 6:00
Aug 23 Wednesday Phillipsburg 12:15
Aug 24 Thursday Lake Hopatcong 12:15
Aug 29 Tuesday Randolph 7:47
Aug 29 Tuesday Vernon 7:00
Aug 30 Wednesday Rockaway 12:15
Aug 31 Thursday Bloomfield / Glen Ridge 12:00
Sept 6 Wednesday Newton 12:15
Sept 7 Thursday Roxbury 12:15
Sept 8 Friday Branchville 12:15
Sept 11 Monday Dover 12:15
Sept 12 Tuesday Bernardsville 7:47
Sept 13 Wednesday Jefferson 12:15
Sept 14 Thursday Denville 12:15
Sept 15 Friday Hanover 7:30
Sept 19 Tuesday Chatham 6:30
Sept 20 Wednesday Morristown 12:15
Sept 21 Thursday South Orange 12:30
Sept 26 Tuesday Livingston 12:15
Sept 27 Wednesday Cedar Grove 6:15
Sept 28 Thursday Chester/Long Valley 11:45
Sept 29 Friday Florham Park 7:47
Oct  3 Tuesday Mountain Lakes/Boonton 12:15
Oct  5 Thursday Madison 12:15
Oct  12 Thursday Nutley 12:15
Oct  12 Tuesday Blairstown 7:00
Oct  16 Monday East Orange 6:00
Oct  17 Tuesday Newark 12:15
Oct  24 Tuesday Livingston Sunrise 7:47
Oct  24 Tuesday Maplewood 6:30
Oct  26 Thursday Wallkill Valley 12:15
Oct  31 Tuesday Montclair 12:00
Nov 2 Thursday Netcong Stanhope 12:15

 

Peggy Mader has been a member of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Rotary since 1988, joining while she was a banker. Peggy admits she probably joined for the wrong reasons but she quickly went from Member of a Rotary Club to a true Rotarian. Since the first Peggy has been involved including serving in all offices in her home club, Governor’s Rep, District Secretary twice, Conference Chair twice, and Assistant Governor. She has also served on or chaired several committees including running the District Golf Outing several times, and hosted a long term exchange from France. Her husband Maurie, who she met a Rotary, served as Governor of District 7470 in 2010-11, so Peggy was very busy in a support role for him.  A graduate of the Rotary Leadership Institute Peggy now facilitates several times per year. She has also served as a facilitator at PETS for years.

Professionally Peggy has been a banker, worked with Maurie in his Advertising Specialties business and most recently as the Planning Board Secretary for Parsippany. All of these positions included management, working with the public and setting up meetings and communicating with board members.

In Parsippany, Peggy has served on the Knoll Country Club Advisory Committee and is currently on the Board of Directors of the Parsippany Child Day Care Center where two thirds of the children are there on stipends from various agencies.

Peggy and Maurie have enjoyed the opportunities of making-up at meetings when they traveled. She was the first female Rotarian to make up at the new Budapest Rotary in 1990, and they have made up frequently in Bermuda where she is lucky enough to have family.

They have been married for 24 years and Maurie has three children spread out across the country, in Boston, Jackson Hole and California, and four grandchildren. One highlight was taking their exchange student to both Jackson Hole and Bermuda for visits.

At the International Institute for Maurie’s year Peggy was able to really appreciate the Internationality of Rotary and is overjoyed at being able to continue her Rotary career.

The current President of the Par-Troy Rotary is Maurie Mader. To reach Maurie you can send an email by clicking here.

Supporting Story-Writing in Young Writers

Frank L. Cahill
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Supporting Story-Writing in Young Writers

Nearly every school in New Jersey has increased the amount of writing students are doing – from informational writing (what we older folks knew as “reports”) to memoir/“small moment” stories to literary essay.   This may cause us to question whether we are providing our young writers with the proper expanse of experiences upon which to write.  Not to worry.  Just like published authors, children write about what they know.

Famed author Gary Paulsen of Hatchet, Dogsong, Brian’s Winter and other Young Adult novels, is an outdoorsman who has first-hand experience with hunting and trapping.  His books reflect these experiences.  Similarly, John Grisham channels his background as an attorney into his legal thrillers.  Children, too, write about what they know, and their stories are all the richer for it.

Take, for example, the writing produced by primary grade students after Hurricane Sandy in October 2012.  A first grader in my school prepared a “How to Get Ready for a Hurricane” list by writing “Get a junarater.”  A kindergartner shared her story “I Lost Pawowr” with her classmates.

One of my all-time favorites is the story written by a first grader about shopping for boots with her mother.  “I lokt in avye sto.  I konot fob tm.  hhh!!!”  (Translation:  I looked in every store.  I could not find them.  Sigh!)  I love the developmentally appropriate writing, the emerging writer’s voice, and the fabulous way this young lady has captured the exasperation of the female quest for shoes.

Then, there is my son Tyler’s story about when “Grandma tried to put the oven fire on.  Grandma O. almost blew up the whole house pulling on the hot or cold switch.”  Tyler was 7-years-old at the time, and this comical experience of watching his grandmother trying to navigate the switches on a new stove provided the inspiration for a story that we framed and have teased Grandma O. about quite often.

What do these pieces have in common?  The children have written about everyday topics in ways that reflect their childish perceptions and outlook.  It doesn’t take fancy trips to provide a young writer with inspiration.  Rather, it takes adults and caregivers who talk with their children and give voice to the experiences in their lives.  A trip to the grocery story, a campout with Cub Scouts, having a little brother or sister, or losing power in a storm all have the potential to become stories for our student writers.

How can we best support our young writers?  Think of the stories in our own lives.

  • What stories from my childhood do I keep coming back to?
  • What funny or unusual event happened today that I can retell to my child?
  • What personal stories do I tell my children at bedtime or other quiet moments?

By sharing those wonderfully ordinary, everyday observations with our children, we help them to see that they have their own stories to tell.  So, before our children move into the world of essays and persuasive/informational writing, encourage and marvel at the beautifully simple stories they have to tell.  It truly is the gateway to bigger and better writing.

Dr. Barbara Sargent is the Superintendent of Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Schools

New Jersey Allstate agency owners support domestic violence nonprofits by hosting donation drive

Frank L. Cahill
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New Jersey Allstate agency owners support domestic violence nonprofits by hosting donation drive

PARSIPPANY — Allstate agency owners from across New Jersey are coming together to host a supply drive to benefit the New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence (NJCEDV). The donations will support the nonprofit’s mission to provide services to help end domestic violence and financial abuse throughout the state. The supply drive is part of a multi-state Allstate Foundation Purple Purse® donation effort that will benefit domestic violence shelters throughout Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C. and West Virginia. Ben Michalik, 342 Parsippany Road, Parsippany is your local Allstate agency supporting the New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence (NJCEDV).

Now through December 11, the public can participate by donating new winter coats, hats, gloves and scarves for women, boys and girls. A complete list of most-needed supplies can be found by clicking here.

Through their volunteer efforts, each participating Allstate agency owner will secure a $1,000 Allstate Foundation Helping Hands® grant. The National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) will accept the grants and distribute the funding to local domestic violence nonprofits. The dates of the donation drives align with the 16 days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which NNEDV supports.

“As small business owners and community leaders, Allstate agency owners see firsthand the opportunities and challenges facing the communities they serve,” said New Jersey Region Allstate spokesperson, Joyce Buford. “Giving back is core to who they are as agency owners, which is why they’re proud to volunteer and raise funds to support survivors of domestic violence and their families across New Jersey.” 

Items are being collected at the following Morris County Allstate locations including Parsippany’s Ben Michalik: 342 Parsippany Road:

·        Mina Dimetry, 261 Comly Road., Lincoln Park

·        Kevin Keller, 1243 Sussex Turnpike, #2, Randolph

·        Venkat Mallad, 123 Morris Street, Morristown

The National Network to End Domestic Violence and NJCEDV are among thousands of organizations this year to receive Allstate Foundation Helping Hands grants secured by Allstate agency owners and financial specialists for their volunteer efforts. The grants support organizations addressing domestic violence, youth empowerment, disaster preparedness, hunger and other causes.

The Allstate Foundation Helping Hands grants are one example of The Allstate Foundation’s legacy of service and giving for communities and nonprofits across the U.S. Each October, domestic violence nonprofits across the country participate in the Purple Purse Challenge to raise funds for financial empowerment programs for domestic violence survivors. This year, more than 220 domestic violence nonprofits participated. Along with the Allstate Foundation grants awarded, more than $4.18 million was raised during the Purple Purse Challenge. To learn more and donate, click here.

Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people’s well-being and prosperity. With a focus on building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, empowering youth and celebrating the charitable community involvement of Allstate agency owners and employees, The Allstate Foundation works to bring out the good in people’s lives. For more information click here.

 

Rainbow Lakes Fire Company holds extensive training on secured buildings

Frank L. Cahill
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Rainbow Lakes Fire Company holds extensive training on secured buildings

PARSIPPANY — Nineteen members of our Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company held an extensive training session on best methods of quickly entering locked and secured structures. The three hour training course was conducted at the Rainbow Lakes Firehouse, on Monday, December 4.

The firefighters and officers practiced and reinforced skills learned at the fire academy using forcible-entry door simulators. This is the same state of the art equipment which is used to often train firefighters in major cities like New York, Jersey City and Newark. The Rainbow Lakes volunteers then used the equipment which is carried on each of the three fire trucks in teams to practice opening locked exterior and interior-doors often encountered in firefighting.

Rainbow Lakes Fire Chief Doug Reighard said “practicing and reinforcing forcible entry skills is important as the quicker a door gets opened the faster the firefighters can make entry to save lives and property.”

The training was observed by several of the other Parsippany Fire Companies who may be interested providing on site training to their departments. With increased security and heavy duty burglar resistant doors training sessions like this become more important. This training was provided by John Riker of Firefighter University LLC. John is a retired Deputy Fire Chief with the Newark Fire Department.

Private Swim Lessons at the Y for Kids 3-13 Years

Frank L. Cahill
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Private Swim Lessons at the Y for Kids 3-13 Years

MOUNTAIN LAKES — If you would like the individual attention of one-on-one private swimming instruction with one of the Y’s top instructors, sign up for 30-minute Private Swim Lessons that will take place during the week of December 18-22 on Monday through Friday only at 4:00, 4:30, and 5:00 p.m.

Lessons are available for ages three (and potty trained) through age 13.

Y membership is not required. Lessons are $20 per half-hour for members; non-members pay $35. Register now!

Limited spots available so sign up early. (Same instructors are not guaranteed.) Diving board lessons are not available. For more information, contact Aquatic Director, Ed Soder at (973) 334-2820, or email at eds@lhymca.com Parents of children with Special Needs should contact Ed prior to registering.

 

Mike Ilic Earns Spot on WPI Wrestling Roster

Frank L. Cahill
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Mike Ilic Earns Spot on WPI Wrestling Roster

PARSIPPANY —  Mike Ilic has earned a spot on the 2017-2018 Worcester Polytechnic Institute Wrestling team.

Mike is a graduate of Parsippany High School Class of 2017.

Founded in 1865 in Worcester, Mass., WPI is one of the nation’s first engineering and technology universities. Its 14 academic departments offer more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in science, engineering, technology, business, the social sciences, and the humanities and arts, leading to bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. WPI’s talented faculty work with students on interdisciplinary research that seeks solutions to important and socially relevant problems in fields as diverse as the life sciences and bioengineering, energy, information security, materials processing, and robotics. Students also have the opportunity to make a difference to communities and organizations around the world through the university’s innovative Global Projects Program. There are more than 40 WPI project centers throughout the Americas, Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Europe.

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