Burroughs Graduates from Susquehanna University

Frank L. Cahill
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Burroughs Graduates from Susquehanna University

PARSIPPANY — Ashley Burroughs, of Parsippany, graduated with a BA in Communications as Susquehanna University closed its 159th academic year with annual commencement exercises on May 17.

A 2013 graduate of Parsippany High School, Burroughs is the daughter of Don and Arletha Burroughs.

Susquehanna University is a selective, residential liberal arts college that provides a solid background in the liberal arts and sciences, as well as professional experiences. Students develop critical thinking, writing, teamwork and communication skills which, combined with internships and research opportunities, prepare them for a lifetime of personal and professional success. The university is recognized nationally for its commitment to off-campus study through the Global Opportunities program. Small classes enable faculty members to serve as mentors, as well as teachers. Ninety-six percent of Susquehanna students are employed or in graduate or professional school within six months of graduation.

The EDAM program, Engineering Design and Advanced Manufacturing

Frank L. Cahill
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The EDAM program, Engineering Design and Advanced Manufacturing

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School and Morris County School of Technology are proud to congratulate three graduating seniors, who will be the first students completing the EDAM program at the County College of Morris. The EDAM program, Engineering Design and Advanced Manufacturing, prepares students for an engineering career through computer applications, cutting edge technology, graphics, drafting, and prototyping.  Eli Davis, Robert Murphy, and Nathaniel Petricca represent Parsippany Hills High School, which happens to have the largest graduating class of the MCST/EDAM program of all the High Schools across Morris County. Parsippany Hills also has two more students representing the program as eleventh graders, Mark Maddox and Randall Rosado, for a total of five students in the program.

Shari Castelli, counselor at Morris County School of Technology reports, “The three students are in the first class to complete the program so they have been pioneers, willing to take a risk on something new. The students were on the ground floor of the NASA HUNCH program and have been able to both manufacture parts for the International Space Station and design objects to be used by astronauts on the International Space Station. These students were able to earn 32 college credits through the program, and possibly more.”

Nathaniel Petricca, “This was a great opportunity to get college experience, authentic working experiences, and exposure to different ways of being taught.”  The boys report that they are currently working on a variety of nuts, bolts, screws, sleeves, and hinges will be used as parts for more equipment on the International Space Station.

Parsippany High School Varsity Girls Softball team honored at town hall

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany High School Varsity Girls Softball team honored at town hall

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio presented the Parsippany High School Varsity Girls Softball team with certificates honoring their victory of 2017 Morris County Softball Champions.

The team had an outstanding record of 23-6 and is currently tied for first place with Hanover Park in the North West Athletic Conference.

Those players honored were Luisa Barone, Claudia Bennett, Caitlin Brennan, Julia Del Viscio, Michelle Ebel, Alyssa Feola, Victoria Freire, Gabriella Gennarelli, Carly Homler, Paige Kaiser, Megan Leitner, Alivia Mercuro, Lilianna Vidal, Julia Vincent and Sarah Waffenfeld. Also Head Coach Cleary and Assistant Coaches Steve Miller and Gionna Florey.

The team proudly holding their certificates
Their celebration cake

PHS Band Celebrates 60 years of music making

Frank L. Cahill
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PHS Band Celebrates 60 years of music making

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany High School Band held its 60th Anniversary celebration with a Spring Band Concert on Friday, May 19 and continued on Saturday, May 20, with a picnic at Veterans Memorial Park for all PHS Band Alumni and their family. This landmark reunion recognized 60 years of Bands at Parsippany High School. Many Band Directors and Band Members attended the event with food donated by Applebee’s and food catered by Texas Smoke Barbecue.

Welcome to the PHS Band Alumni
Craig Hunt (2016), Xue Ting Lin (2016) and Josh Lustig (2015) were the youngest Alumni’s at the picnic
Robbie Furman (1989) with his balloon creations
Band Director Greg Dalakian and Brian Stanton
Steve Klein (1985), Mary Giercyk Castillo (1986), Lionel “Lonnie” Roland (1986), Robbie Furman (1989) and Chris Marques (1988)
Tamar Fine Yarkoni (1989), Saxophone with Nancy Polen McAllister (1989) Drum Major
Calvin Dickens (2031) Nancy Dickens (Band Parent 1988-2000) and Miles Dickens (2028)

 

Balloon Artist Robbie Furman (1989)
William Min (1995) and Lew Kelly (1995)
Phil Hughes, Michele Hughes (1987), Steve Dickens and Nancy Dickens
Drum Majors and Band Directors – Joe Bernabe (1970), Ellen Klein (1979), Greg Dalakian (2004), Joe Stella, Adrienne Thaunberg Perez (2003), Chris Arnold and Nancy Polen McAllister (1989)
Leslie (Griswold) Silver (1979), Kathy (Eccles) O’Rourke (1979), Joe Bernabe (1970), Laura (Miguelez) Quay (1979), Ellen Klein (1979) and Terri (Thompson) Herold (1979)
Band Directors: Erin Neglio, Chris Arnold, Mike Russo, Joe Bernabe, Joe Stella and Greg Dalakian
The delicious celebration cake

Christie Administration announces $78.75 million in Municipal Aid grants to help control property taxes

Frank L. Cahill
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Christie Administration announces $78.75 million in Municipal Aid grants to help control property taxes

TRENTON — The Christie Administration today announced 373 Local Aid grants totaling $78.75 million to help municipalities advance a variety of transportation projects without burdening local property taxpayers.

“Most of the Municipal Aid grants will support road resurfacing or preservation projects, and will help towns make much needed repairs,” NJDOT Commissioner Richard T. Hammer said.   “These grants will help keep local roads in a state of good repair without burdening local property taxes.”

The competitive Municipal Aid grant program attracted 628 applications worth $287.3 million in work.  A total 373 municipalities applicants were awarded grants, which are funded through the New Jersey Transportation Trust Fund.

Under the Municipal Aid grant program, each county is apportioned a share of the total funding based on population and the number of local centerline miles.  Municipalities compete for portions of their county’s share.  Past performance in connection with timely award of projects and construction close-out factor into the evaluation of the Municipal Aid grant proposals. Of the $78.75 million, there is $5 million allotted for municipalities qualifying for Urban Aid under state law, with the awards determined by the Department of Community Affairs.

When evaluating municipal aid grant applications, NJDOT gives an additional point to municipalities that have adopted Complete Streets policies. At the time municipal aid applications were due there were 122 municipalities with complete streets policies, and all but eleven submitted applications.  Of them, 99 were recommended for grants totaling $21.4 million.

A total of 134 municipalities and eight counties now have adopted Complete Streets policies, which establishes guidelines that require consideration be given to pedestrians and bicyclists when local transportation projects are being planned, designed, and built.  NJDOT adopted its award-winning policy in December, 2009.

NJDOT provides 75 percent of a municipal aid grant when a town awards a contract and the remaining 25 percent upon completion of the project.

PHS holds assembly on the dangers of drinking and driving

Frank L. Cahill
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PHS holds assembly on the dangers of drinking and driving

PARSIPPANY — On Friday, May 26, Parsippany High School held their Sixth Annual Anti-Drunk Driving Program for seniors. This program was created to help raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving. Parsippany-Troy Hills law enforcement officials worked closely with school administrators, Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance Squad, Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad, Parsippany Fire Department District 5 and Atlantic Air Medical Unit and other community stakeholders, to help raise student awareness against drunk driving, especially at this time of the year with upcoming prom and graduation celebrations.

The program is so unique from year to year which adds to the impact that is left on the students.  The students created the video from beginning to end and take complete ownership of the project.  The actors, seniors Cristina Fernandez, Joseph Ruggiero, Jackson Wolfe, Yash Patel and Jennifer Mazo started planning this program in early October.

During the staged event, Senior Joseph Ruggerio was charged with Criminal Vehicular Manslaughter, DUI and Negligent homicide. Christina Fernandez was paralyzed from neck down and can never walk again. Jackson Wolfe died on impact. Yash Patel was paralyzed from waist down and Jennifer Mazo died at the scene.

Sarah Di Pippa and Divij Malkani, was the Director, Editor and Camera. Special thanks to Mr. Thomas Rizk, Detective Thomas Lenanhan, Detective Curving, Captain Wieners and Patrolman Levi.

The video was produced by Video on the Go.

CCM Holds 48th Commencement Ceremony

Frank L. Cahill
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CCM Holds 48th Commencement Ceremony

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) presented diplomas to the Class of 2017 during its 48th commencement ceremony on Friday, May 26.

Approximately 1,450 students – many who are transferring to top four-year institutions to earn their bachelor’s degrees – were eligible to receive diplomas in one of four degrees: Associate in Arts, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science. The five most popular programs CCM students received degrees in are Business Administration, Humanities Social Science (Liberal Arts), Nursing, Criminal Justice and Biology. The graduates completed their studies between August 2016 and May 2017.

More than 500 students from the Class of 2017 took part in this year’s commencement ceremony. Due to the number of students who participated in this year’s commencement, the ceremony was moved offsite to the Mennen Sports Arena.

Included among the top schools CCM graduates are transferring to are Emerson College, Johnson & Wales University, Penn State University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and the University of Texas, Arlington, along with New Jersey’s leading colleges and universities.

Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, who became CCM’s third president this past September, gave the commencement address.

”Today is a joyous occasion as we celebrate all the hard work, sacrifice and commitment that have brought you to this point of completion and new beginnings. Your education will open up doors of opportunity and set you on the path to a more fulfilling life,” said Iacono. But … I challenge you not to stop there. Instead, take what you have learned – and will continue to learn – and use it to open the doors of opportunity for others. As much as others have helped you to reach this milestone, be that help for others.”

Standing with tradition, this year’s County College of Morris Peace Prize recipient was recognized at commencement. The winner of the 2017 CCM Peace Prize is Jessica Ann Jones, of Hopatcong, for her video “Light.” Her video can be viewed by clicking here. Professor Laura Gabrielsen, from the Department of English and Philosophy, served as Jones’ mentor for the project.

The creator of the winning entry each year receives a $1,000 award, provided by the CCM Foundation. Jones also will have her name added to a permanent plaque of Peace Prize winners located in the Student Community Center.

This is the 15th year the college has awarded its Peace Prize, which is organized and administered by Professor Peter Maguire of the Department of English and Philosophy. Established in the fall of 2001, the Peace Prize competition provides students with the opportunity to apply their imagination and creativity to the design and production of a work that both commemorates the events of September 11, 2001 and makes a positive statement about the importance and pursuit of world peace.

Assemblywoman’s suit alleging challenger violated finance laws dismissed

Frank L. Cahill
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Assemblywoman’s suit alleging challenger violated finance laws dismissed

MORRISTOWN — A day after filing her lawsuit against Morris County Freeholder William “Hank” Lyon, a Morris County judge dismissed on Thursday Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce’s suit against her challenger in the June primary over alleged campaign finance violations. Assignment Judge Stuart Minkowitz, in an order obtained by NJ Advance Media, dismissed the suit for lack of…

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Letter to the editor: Support Hank Lyon for Assembly

Frank L. Cahill
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Letter to the editor: Support Hank Lyon for Assembly

Dear Editor:

As a taxpaying resident of the district, I am disgusted by the disregard that his opponent, Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, shows for the people she is supposed to represent. She collected an endorsement and a check from NJEA, the notorious teachers’ public union. Despite vocal objections from her constituents, DeCroce backstabbed them by voting for a massive gas tax increase last year, then twisted the dagger by saying that she is “proud” of the vote. She must be equally proud of avoiding her own tax hike as she pays for fuel out of her campaign funds. Between her six-digit public pension and a legislator’s salary, cannot she pay for her own gas?

Hank Lyon is everything BettyLou DeCroce’s is not: young, enthusiastic and conservative. As Freeholder, he actively worked to lower Morris County taxes and debt. To save money, he went as far as eliminating health benefits freeholders – himself including! Lyon brings a conservative vision that is so much needed in Trenton. Despite DeCroce’s dirty attacks, he has waged a clean, issues-based campaign.

I urge all my fellow Republicans to clean the house by voting for Hank Lyon in the June 6 primary.

Maxim Sapozhnikov
Montville

PHHS Key Club joins Kiwanis Club breakfast meeting

Frank L. Cahill
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PHHS Key Club joins Kiwanis Club breakfast meeting

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School Key Club joined the members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany breakfast meeting on Thursday, May 25. Joining the Key Clubbers was Club Advisor Bonnie Sturm. Also pictured with the students is PHHS liaison Davey Willans and Kiwanis Director of Sponsored Youth Ron Orthwein.

Key Club is in international student-led service organization that provides its members with opportunities to provide service, build character, and develop leadership. Members participate in various service activities such as raising money for UNICEF, creating care cards for patients at Children’s Specialized Hospital, our Annual Senior Citizen Dinner Theater, and supporting local food banks.

Earlier this month, members of New Jersey District of Key Club International attended the 71st Annual NJ District Key Club Convention in Long Branch. Attendees took part in leadership workshops, learned about fundraising and advocacy, heard from state officers and keynote speaker Ben Nemtin of MTV’s “The Buried Life”, listened to inspiring stories, and met fellow Key Clubbers who shared the same passion for volunteerism.

The 21 Parsippany Hills Key Clubbers who attended DCON this year did an outstanding job of representing PHHS Key Club in undoubtedly the most successful convention ever, placing in various contests and winning the coveted Spirit Stick Award for our division for their display of spirit! Congrats to the distinguished officers award recipients:

President: Asha Patel
Vice‑President: Karoline Xiong
Treasurer: Vishal Mansuria
Secretaries: Crystal Tran and Michael Tran
Bulletin Editors: Tara Srinivasan and Shreya Nair
Historians: Juliana Urbis and Thomas Shweh.

The PHHS Key Club recently attended and was honored for the following awards:

    • First place for non‑digital poster: Karoline Xiong
    • First place for club bulletin: Shreya Nair and Tara Srinivasan
    • Second Place in the Non‑traditional scrapbook category:  Juliana Urbis and Thomas Shweh
    • Second place in the Impromptu Essay contest: Tara Kakkaramadam
    • Distinguished Lieutenant Governor and Outstanding District Board Member: Vanessa Ting
    • Golden Member Award: Tara Kakkaramadam

An additional congratulations to Kaitlin Cirillo for becoming Lieutenant Governor of Division 21.

Parsippany Hills High School Key Club is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, click here.

Driver fails to keep right crashes into parked landscaping trailer

Frank L. Cahill
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Driver fails to keep right crashes into parked landscaping trailer

PARSIPPANY — Mr. Everton Scott, Parsippany, was traveling south on Old Chester Road, and failed to keep right, crossed the center of the roadway and struck a parked trailer owned by Cutting Edge Landscaping. Mr. Scott was driving a 2007 Acura RDX which sustained heavy damage to the front driver side of the vehicle. The trailer did not show any visible damage.

Mr. Scott’s Acura was towed from the scene by Ajaco Towing.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Marc Fernandez issued Mr. Scott a summons for Careless Driving and Probationary driver’s license.

The trailer was owned by Cutting Edge Landcaping
The 2007 Acura RDX sustained heavy front damage on the driver side of the vehicle
Pieces of the vehicle on the roadway

Warrior Yoga Event to Support Local Childhood Cancer Warrior

Frank L. Cahill
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Warrior Yoga Event to Support Local Childhood Cancer Warrior

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany resident Sean Ries is a brave 10-year-old warrior, waging a battle against pediatric brain cancer since 2012. After a two-phase surgery under the care of a team of doctors at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) and Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York City, Sean has received “active surveillance”, meaning MRIs at MSKCC every three months to watch for any changes.  Unfortunately, in February his family received the heartbreaking news that Sean’s cancer has returned, exactly five years after his initial diagnosis.

Sean once again faces surgery at MSKCC with his trusted team of doctors.  He also again has the support of the community, who is rallying around Sean and the Ries family through TEAM Sean (Together Everyone Achieves Miracles) and a series of fundraisers this June.  Proceeds from the fundraisers will help support Sean and his family with medical expenses as well as donated to the Children’s Brain Tumor Family Foundation, a registered 501(c)3.

Warrior Yoga, the next fundraiser, will be taking place on Sunday, June 4 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Parsippany PAL at 33 Baldwin Road. Enjoy a night of strength, focus, and relaxation led by Parsippany mom, Ankita Roelofs.

Additionally, participants can shop with local representatives from companies like Thirty-One, Rodan & Fields, Jazzercise, Young Living Essential Oils, Touchstone Crystals, LuLaRue and more.  All will be making donations back to TEAMSean.

Registration for the event is $20.00 and can be completed through by clicking here.  The event site can also process donations. Contact Ankita Roelofs at Amc927@yahoo.com for additional information.

36th Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic

Frank L. Cahill
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36th Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic
Area women intent on their game at the Social and Luncheon

PARSIPPANY — For over 35 years the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills (WCPTH) has held its Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic & Luncheon Social to benefit the club’s Scholarship and Education Fund.

All money raised goes back to Parsippany students (open to both male and female students) in educational programs such as scholarships to graduating high school seniors, Citizenship Awards to graduating eighth graders, fifth Grade Reading Awards, a Spelling Bee, Dr. Seuss Birthday events and  library donations.

In 2016, thirty-one students were honored by the club, including ten high school seniors who each received a scholarship. In addition, starting this year  we will make a significant monetary donation to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs’ Success for Survivors Scholarship which assists those impacted by intimate partner violence pursue higher education.

The event will be held on Tuesday, July 11 at the Knoll Country Club West.  The fundraiser includes a social and games or golf and for all attendees; a buffet lunch, Tricky Tray, 50/50 Raffle, Door Prizes and more!

Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills club member MaryAnn Coyne with her husband Bill admiring some of the great Tricy Tray Baskets.

The fee for the Social and Luncheon is $35.00 and includes Continental Breakfast, Cards, Games, Hot and Cold Buffet Luncheon, Door Prizes, Tricky Tray and 50/50 Raffle.  The Social and Games start at 10:00 a.m.

The fee for Golfers is $115.00 and includes Continental Breakfast, Hot and Cold Buffet Luncheon, Door Prizes, Tricky Tray and 50/50 Raffle.  The Golf Scramble Shotgun starts at 8:00 a.m.

Reservations are needed by June 29.

If you would like attend the 36th Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic & Luncheon Social, please contact Lois at (973) 887-6627 or WCPTH, Golf Outing, P.O. Box 98, Parsippany, NJ 07054.

Tricky Tray items included Baskets of Cheer, Yankee tickets, restaurant gift cards, show tickets and much more.

The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC (NJSFWC), which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service.  For club information call Cathy at (973) 984-0758, e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com  or click here to visit their website; or follow on FaceBook.

Parsippany MOMS Clubs Welcome New Members at Recent Open House

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany MOMS Clubs Welcome New Members at Recent Open House

PARSIPPANY — The MOMS Clubs of Parsippany East and West held a joint open house and children’s yoga class at the Parsippany Main Library on May 5.  Over thirty children and thirty adults were in attendance, with many of the younger guests participating in a lively yoga class conducted by Ankita Roelofs, herself a former member of the MOMS Club of Parsippany West.

Caregivers were able to connect over refreshments both before and after the class.

The MOMS Clubs of Parsippany East and West are chapters of the International MOMS Club, a non-profit organization focused on Moms Offering Moms Support.  Its mission is to offer support and enriching activities to both mothers and their children.  Activities include organized family friendly outings; various activity groups for both children and moms; moms’ nights out; and monthly service projects to benefit both children in need and the larger community.  Members represent a diverse group and all moms are welcome.

Didn’t make the open house but still want to learn about MOMS Club chapters in Parsippany?

If you live in Parsippany with children who attend or will attend Troy Hills, Lake Hiawatha, Northvail, Knollwood, or Rockaway Meadow schools, email parsippanymomsclubeast@gmail.com  or click here.

Those whose children attend or will attend Intervale, Mount Tabor, Lake Parsippany, Eastlake, and Littleton schools should email parsippanymomsclubwest@gmail.com or click here.

Both chapters can also be found on their public Facebook pages.

 

Letter to the editor: Reader praises Drayer Physical Therapy

Frank L. Cahill
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Letter to the editor: Reader praises Drayer Physical Therapy

Dear Editor:

I am writing this letter based on my experience with Drayer Physical Therapy, which opened recently on New Road in Parsippany.

I began treatment at their Flanders location and transferred to Parsippany when it opened in March, since I live in Parsippany.

The Center Manager, Jonathan Zaid, and his receptionist, Aishath, are absolutely incredible! They are both very warm and make you feel welcome the moment you step in the door. Both Jonathan and Aishath take a personal interest in your life and you know they mean it and are listening when they ask the question, “How are you?” 

Jonathan is incredibly knowledgeable and extremely dedicated to his patients. He gives out his personal cell phone and makes sure he is available for his patients at all times. I can’t even express how impressive this is as most people these days leave their work at the office, but not him.

You can tell he means it when he says call or text me anytime. A couple of weeks ago, I had severe pain on a Sunday afternoon. My roommate texted Jonathan and he immediately called to speak with me. I advised him of my symptoms and he walked me through different exercises until the pain calmed down. He even checked on me the next day!  

Drayer is a special kind of place. I have been to a number of physical therapy facilities over the years but have never been to a place like this. The employees truly care and make a difference! I strongly recommend Drayer Physical Therapy!

Jamie Savage

Three Parsippany students were recognized as outstanding Band members

Frank L. Cahill
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Three Parsippany students were recognized as outstanding Band members

PARSIPPANY — Three Parsippany students were recognized as outstanding Band members by the Mayo Performing Arts Center for their achievements on the stage.

Trevor Govelitz, Marvin LiGrade, and Mitchell Ryzuk were recognized for their talents. Students are nominated by teachers, and are chosen by MPAC’s theater education department based on “commitment to and excellence in the performing arts.” All students honored are invited to preform at a year-end recital in June.

Trevor Govelitz, a seventh grader at Brooklawn Middle School was nominated by Joseph Stella:

Trevor is a trumpet player in our 7th grade band and also plays trumpet in our jazz band and pit orchestra. He is a leader in his section and is always willing to play solos when asked. In addition to being a fine musician, he is a very friendly and respectful student.

Marvin LiGrade, a seventh grader at Brooklawn Middle School, was also nominated by Joseph Stella:

Marvin is a percussionist in our 7th grade band and was selected by audition to play the drum set part in this year’s pit orchestra for our school musical. He is always receptive to being challenged in his lessons with increasingly more difficult music. He has also done well with learning the many types of percussion instruments including the mallet instruments.

Mitchell Ryzuk, a senior at Parsippany High School was nominated by Gregory Dalakian:

Mitchell has been involved in every single facet of the PHS music program since his freshman year. He has served as the Snare Captain of the Drumline the last two years and the Drumline Section Leader this past year. He has also been our Jazz Band drummer all through high school and has played drum set for every high school and middle school pit orchestra since he was in middle school. Mitchell is a talented musician who always leads by example and gladly gives of his time and efforts in order for our band program to succeed. He is truly an outstanding band member with a true passion for music.

The 2016-2017 Music Student of the Month program is sponsored by The Provident Bank Foundation.

Parsippany woman busted for drugs in front of child

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany woman busted for drugs in front of child

PARSIPPANY — Bergen County Prosecutor Gurbir S. Grewal announced the arrest of Janis Giambertone, 41, on a charge of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The arrest is the result of a joint investigation conducted by members of the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office under the direction of Chief Robert Anzilotti, and the East Rutherford Police Department under the direction of Chief Larry Minda.

On May 11, the East Rutherford Police Department and Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office received information that a 12-year-old victim was present while Janis Giambertone possessed and ingested controlled dangerous substances in East Rutherford.

As a result of the investigation, Janis Giambertone was arrested on Thursday, May 18, in East Rutherford, and charged with one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4a, a third degree crime. After being processed, Janis Giambertone was released pending a first appearance at the Bergen County Central Judicial Court on Wednesday, May 31 at 9:00 a.m.

Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Judge denies probable cause in criminal charges against Barberio

Frank L. Cahill
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Judge denies probable cause in criminal charges against Barberio

PARSIPPANY — Pequannock Township Municipal Judge John A. Paparazzo failed to find probable cause on the criminal charges filed against Mayor James Barberio and Business Administrator Ellen Sandman, stating that Mr. Brennan should have filed a hearing with the Civil Service Commission.

“The judge exerted the truth regarding the criminal complaint. He wasn’t going to enforce it because he claims it should have been filed with the Civil Service Commission. They are watering down every check and balance citizens had in place to hold government officials accountable. Christ Christie controls the prosecutors, judges and attorney general, we need the system to be held accountable and enforceable,” said Bill Brennan.

He also said “John Inglesino is the ultimate target in the series of criminal charges that I commenced against Parsippany officials. Inglesino is a criminal and I invite him to sue me for slander, defamation and libel because I have said it, I have implied it and I have put it in writing. I welcome the subpoena power that such a lawsuit would confer upon me.”

Mayor James Barberio and Business Administrator Ellen Sandman did not attend the Monday hearing. Attorney Vij Pawar, representing the duo, addressed the court.

Previous, Parsippany Court Administrator Al Leal referred the probable cause hearing to Morristown Municipal Court. At that time, Parsippany Focus contacted Mr. Pawar, who refused to take our call, but we left a message with his secretary, reminding Mr. Pawar, that would be a conflict of interest to hold the hearing in Morristown Municipal Court, since his partner is the Morristown Prosecutor.  Mr. Pawar never returned our telephone call. The the hearing was sent to Lincoln Park Municipal Court, but the Judge also determined there was a conflict of interest, so the hearing was then sent to Pequannock Municipal Court.

The criminal charges were filed in Parsippany Municipal Court on Friday, April 7 by Democratic activist and candidate for governor Bill Brennan. The charges stem from two employees hired in violation of Parsippany’s White Collar Salary Ordinance.

Ramona J. Ortiz was hired on December 5, 2016 as a Keyboarding Clerk 1, at an annual salary of $54,000. The salary ordinance for white-collar workers, specifically Keyboarding Clerk 1, Ordinance 2016:22 states the salary is a minimum of $17,000 with a maximum of $48,000. She was hired at $6,000 more than the maximum amount allowed by Township Ordinance.

Eugene Natoli was hired on December 19, 2016 as a Keyboarding Clerk 1, at an annual salary of $50,000. The salary ordinance for white-collar workers, specifically Keyboarding Clerk 1, Ordinance 2016:22 states the salary is a minimum of $17,000 with a maximum of $48,000. He was hired at $2,000 more than the maximum amount allowed by Township Ordinance. 

Bill Brennan stated “My criminal charge in Parsippany has resulted in odd behavior by the municipal court system. Before sending the case to Morristown Municipal Court for a probable cause determination, the Parsippany Municipal Court set a first appearance for the defendants in Superior Court for April 19. This caused media inquiries to the Superior Court regarding status. In response the Superior Court was perplexed because no paperwork had been received from either Parsippany or Morristown.”

During the delay in hearing the probable cause, Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council scheduled an “special” meeting, on April 11, to pass an ordinance to change the White Color Salary Ordinance (Click here to read story: Cover Up Of A Crime? Salary Ordinance Revised; 3-2 Vote on First Reading). Council President Louis Valori, Councilman Michael dePierro and Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani approved the Ordinance on First Reading. Council Vice President Robert Peluso and Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr. voted against the ordinance.

The Ordinance was approved 3-2 on final reading at Regular Council meeting held on Tuesday, April 25.

The Ordinance, #2017:05, shall be retroactive to January 1, 2017 for all employees active on the date of introduction of this ordinance. The salary in this ordinance for Keyboarding Clerk 1 will have a minimum starting salary of $17,000 annually to $55,000 annually. (Note: A copy of the Ordinance was not available to the public during the special meeting, Parsippany Focus obtained a copy through Open Public Records Act (OPRA). Click here to see the complete White Collar Salary ranges.

“I find it kind-of comical that we had to have this special meeting, at the last second, right after this gentlemen who you claim files this bogus claim,” Councilman Paul Carifi told Parsippany Focus. “Again, the mayor hired these people at a higher rate than what the salary ordinance allows. That is a fact. This is a knee-jerk reaction, as usual, by the mayor.”

“I’m voting with my conscience, no,” Council Vice President Robert Peluso said.

Brennan said the municipal court did not give him satisfaction, he will file a new complaint that left out the civil service violation, a fourth-degree crime, and charge them with official misconduct.

“The judge didn’t do any favors for the defendants because he created a new paradigm in which fourth-degree crimes have to be processed by an administrative agency,” Brennan said. “But if he wants to do that, then all the elements of official misconduct are met by their charges, and I’m just going to go back and charge him with official misconduct for violating the municipal ordinance. I was trying to be decent to them. I didn’t want to put them in jail for five years. But if the judge doesn’t want this big fourth-degree crime, then he’s related them to a five-year mandatory minimum.”

CCM 2017 Graduation to Take Place at Mennen Sports Arena

Frank L. Cahill
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CCM 2017 Graduation to Take Place at Mennen Sports Arena

RANDOLPH — For the first time in its history, County College of Morris (CCM) will be holding its graduation ceremony off site this year due to the enthusiastic response of students who wish to participate in the ceremony.

The Class of 2017 totals more than 1,400 and it is expected that the number who will participate in commencement will exceed 500. The class includes graduates from August 2016 and January and May 2017.

Given the large number of expected participants, college officials have moved the 48th Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 26, to the Mennen Sports Arena in Morris Plains. The ceremony starts at 10 a.m.

“We’re delighted that so many CCM students want to take part in their graduation,” said Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, CCM president. “Moving the location not only will allow us to better accommodate all of our graduates, it also will allow them to invite more of their family and friends.”

With this commencement, CCM expects to reach a grand total of 50,000 graduates.

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Nicole Tagliente Inducted into the National Health Education Honor Society at Scranton

Frank L. Cahill
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Nicole Tagliente Inducted into the National Health Education Honor Society at Scranton
Nicole Tagliente

PARSIPPANY — Nicole Tagliente, a Parsippany Hills High School graduate, was among The University of Scranton students inducted into the national health education honor society (Eta Sigma Gamma).

The honor society is open to all community health education majors with a grade point average of 3.2 or higher in the major and a minimum overall grade point average of 3.0.

The University’s chapter of the honor society was established in 2012.

Tagliente is a senior majoring in community health education at the Jesuit University.

Founded in 1888, Scranton is a private Catholic and Jesuit university that is known for outstanding academic quality, a beautiful and technology-rich campus, and a sense of community that helps you feel right at home.

The University of Scranton was founded as Saint Thomas College by Most Reverend William G. O’Hara, D.D., the first Bishop of Scranton, who had always hoped to provide an opportunity for higher education in the Lackawanna Valley. In August 1888, with few resources at hand, he blessed a single block of granite as a cornerstone for his new college, which would admit its first students four years later. The cornerstone of Old Main is preserved in the wall of St. Thomas Hall.

The college was staffed by diocesan priests and seminarians until 1896 and then, for one year, by the Xaverian Brothers. From 1897 until 1942 the school, which was renamed The University of Scranton in 1938, was administered for the Diocese by the Christian Brothers. In the late summer of 1942, at the invitation of Most Reverend William Hafey, D.D., 19 Jesuits, led by Rev. Coleman Nevils, S.J., the newly appointed president, arrived on campus to administer the University.

The Jesuits restructured and strengthened Scranton’s traditional and pre-professional programs with an emphasis on the liberal arts, which are the foundation for every program at a Jesuit university. This emphasis is intended to give Scranton students an appreciation for all disciplines as they develop specific subject knowledge.

The University has flourished under the Jesuits, growing from a primarily commuter school with fewer than 1,000 students to a broadly regional, comprehensive university with a total enrollment of approximately 5,500 students in undergraduate, graduate and nontraditional programs.

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