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Ryan Strotman Graduated from Champlain College

By
Frank Cahill
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FLORHAM PARK — Champlain College is pleased to announce that Ryan Strotman recently graduated from Champlain College after the fall 2021 semester.

Strotman was one of 273 students who completed their degree requirements and received their diplomas at this time. Strotman completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Cybersecurity.

Founded in 1878, Champlain College is a small, not-for-profit, private college in Burlington, Vermont, with additional campuses in Montreal, Canada, and Dublin, Ireland. From its beautiful campus overlooking Lake Champlain, the College offers an innovative academic experience and more than 100 residential and online programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates. Champlain’s distinctive career-driven approach to higher education embodies the notion that true learning occurs when information and experience come together to create knowledge.

For the sixth year in a row, Champlain was named a “Most Innovative School” in the North by U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Colleges” rankings and was listed among The Princeton Review’s “The Best 387 Colleges” in 2022. Champlain is also featured in the 2021 Fiske Guide to Colleges as one of the “best and most interesting schools” in the United States, Canada, and Great Britain and was recognized as a 2020 College of Distinction for its “Engagement, Teaching, Community, and Outcomes.”

For more information click here.

Morris County Welcomes NJ Labs Group

By
Frank Cahill
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Dr. Mehata of Mount Sinai, Dr, Bullard Zaman, M.D., Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James R. Barberio, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso and Executive Board Member Frank Cahill cutting the ribbon in celebration of the opening of NJ Clinical Labs Group

MORRIS COUNTY — NJ Labs Group celebrated a ribbon-cutting grand opening on Monday, January 31.

Navigating through this current pandemic has been difficult for all of us. NJ Lab Group believes that having access to fast and effective COVID-19 testing should be the least of our worries during such complicated times. Between no available appointments, long wait times, and delayed results, we’ve realized that many of our lives have been on pause and we are excited to offer the Parsippany community a chance to get fast, accurate test results from the comfort of your car!

Dr. Mehata of Mount Sinai, Dr, Bullard Zaman, M.D., Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James R. Barberio, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill and President Robert Peluso holds a plaque presented to Dr. Zaman, congratulating the new business on behalf of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Advisory Board.

Conveniently located off Route 46 East in Parsippany, NJ Lab Group has set up a uniquely innovative approach to providing this community with direct access to PCR COVID-19 testing FOR FREE. This drive-up testing facility also offers a solution to our patients from the convenience of their own car.

You can register for a test at www.njlabgroup.com. Please register before coming to the test site. Upon entering the parking lot, simply follow the signs through the lot and you will have your swab collected before you know it. Because our tests are processed locally, our patients will receive their results within 24-48 hours!

Dr. Bulland Zaman, a board-certified Family Physician has been working on the frontlines of this pandemic since March of 2020 and continues to work inpatient as well as outpatient medicine. With the blessings of Mayor Barberio, Dr. Zaman is proud to bring his medical services to this community of Parsippany and look forward to continuing to provide all healthcare needs.

NJ Labs Group is located at 1259 Route 46, Building 3, Suite 307, Parsippany. NJ Labs Group is a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2022. Click here to view article.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Advisory Board presented a plaque to the new business

Meet Christian Barranco: An Ambitious First-Generation Hispanic American

By
Frank Cahill
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Assemblyman Christian Barranco

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County’s newest Assemblyman Christian Barranco doesn’t just stand out for his stature (he’s 6 feet 5 inches tall), it’s his unwavering conservative values and disadvantaged background that show there is a real chance for change in Trenton.

A first-generation Hispanic American from a broken home, Barranco knows what it means to put in the work to create your own success. He is currently a union electrician with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 102 and worked as a project manager on many industrial and energy infrastructure projects in New Jersey.

Barranco says hoisting himself up by his bootstraps to become a middle-class provider from the private sector pushes him to make New Jersey a more affordable place to live for other hardworking families.

“The public sector economy is drowning New Jersey in taxes and regulations. It’s only worsening with Gov. Phil Murphy and the Democrat majority’s progressive policies,” he said. “Healthy and vibrant private enterprise – not more government – will champion jobs for New Jerseyans.”

He wants to make New Jersey a more attractive place to do business so that there are better opportunities for good paying jobs.

“We cannot all work for the government,” he added.

The Legislature has been dominated by Democrats, but the recent “red wave” this past election indicates people are tired of big government and out-of-touch career politicians. Barranco is one of 11 new Republican members in the Assembly.

“It’s important that we build bridges among business, labor, and political leaders to address social and economic issues. I have seen first-hand the innovation and change that happens when we can bring all the parties to the table,” Barranco said. “One-party and one-man rule is hurting our state. We need to get more people involved to be active participants in change.”

To that end, in 2013, he founded and directed the New Jersey Rough Riders Society, a PAC supporting Republican candidates and issues at all levels of the New Jersey government. Later, in 2019, he started “Square Deal for NJ,” a social media site dedicated to raising political awareness and driving public awareness.

He vows not to become a “Trenton insider,” but he is no stranger to politics. He sharpened his experience as councilman for the Pompton Lakes Borough from 2017 to 2019 and as a member of the Pompton Lakes Republican County Committee from 2014 to 2019.

“I work for the people of New Jersey, not backroom wheelers and dealers. It all comes down to fighting to make New Jersey better for the people I represent,” he said. “I’m not afraid of fighting for change and making sure my constituents are aware of the oppressive proposals in Trenton, so we can all push back.”

An active member of the community and a resident of Jefferson Township, he has his finger on the pulse of the issues affecting local families. He currently serves on the Northern New Jersey Council of the Boy Scouts of America executive board. He and his wife Pauline, and their three children, Natalia, Simone, and Emilio, are parishioners at St. Thomas the Apostle Roman Catholic Church in Oak Ridge.

“I got involved in local organizations and politics to make a difference. Political liberty, private-sector jobs, personal freedom, and affordability for working families are the causes that I will be advancing in Trenton. It’s time for a change,” he said.

Lyndsay Brauchle Graduates from The University of Tampa

By
Frank Cahill
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BOONTON — Lyndsay Brauchle, graduated from The University of Tampa on Friday, Dec. 17. Brauchle graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice BS.

The commencement ceremony included 1,063 undergraduate and graduate candidates. The ceremony included remarks by Lonnie Bryant, chair of the Department of Finance and professor of finance, and the student challenge speaker.

The University of Tampa is a private, comprehensive university located on 110 acres on the riverfront in downtown Tampa. Known for academic excellence, personal attention and real-world experience in its undergraduate and graduate programs, the University serves more than 10,000 students from 50 states and most of the world’s 195 countries.

$325 Million Program for Struggling Homeowners to Launch February 8

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — On February 8, the State of New Jersey will launch the Emergency Rescue Mortgage Assistance Program (ERMA), a federally financed program for homeowners who have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible homeowners may receive up to $35,000, plus free housing counseling services, to cover mortgage arrearages, delinquent property taxes, and other housing cost delinquencies.

This lifeline makes loss mitigation options, such as refinancing, a viable option.

ERMA, which is being administered by the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA), utilizes $325.9 million of federal Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) money under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

ERMA will also provide free housing counseling services to help New Jersey homeowners apply for this program, guide them through all available options, and even work with their loan servicers to achieve the best outcome available for their families. These counselors will also ensure that the process is accessible to those without access to the Internet or those having difficulties navigating the process.

Click here to review program eligibility guidelines and sign up for program updates.

To qualify for the ERMA program, homeowners must meet the following requirements:

  • Be a New Jersey homeowner with a demonstrated COVID-19-related financial hardship occurring after January 20, 2020
  • Own and occupy an eligible primary residence
  • Have an income below 150% of their Area Median Income (AMI).

NJHMFA will provide the centralized application intake platform, eligibility review, and payment of assistance, which will be made directly to the servicer.

Housing counselors are available to assist homeowners with applications or understand all available options. ERMA applications can be submitted using a personal computer, laptop, smartphone, or tablet, or call (855) 647-7700 to be put in touch with a housing counselor.

The ERMA application portal will open for applications click here on February 8, 2022, at 9:00 a.m.

NJHMFA will work to accommodate homeowners with disabilities as well as to assist applicants with limited English proficiency. The application portal is available in many languages. Applicants seeking accommodations should contact NJHMFA at (855) 647-7700 for assistance.

To receive updates and notifications on the program via email and/or text, visit the NJHMFA HAF page and complete the “Receive HAF Update Notifications” form by clicking here.

NEW JERSEY HOUSING AND MORTGAGE FINANCE AGENCY

NJHMFA, an independent agency of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, is a statewide and national leader in providing and advocating for affordable housing and homeownership. The Agency provides financing to developers to create quality homes and provides mortgage loans down payments and closing cost assistance to help homebuyers achieve their dream of homeownership. For more information about NJHMFA programs, click here.

Richard Marx Postpones Morristown Show Due To Omicron Surge

By
Frank Cahill
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Richard Marx

MORRIS COUNTY — Although New Jersey has shown signs of progress from the worst of the omicron wave, an artist slated to perform at the Mayo Performing Arts Center postponed shows because of the variant. Richard Marx’s February 22 show has been postponed to November 2 after the Grammy Award winner decided to push back his February concerts.

The Mayo Performing Arts Center will honor all tickets on the November date. People can contact the MPAC box office with any questions.

Marx tweeted the following Tuesday: “My friends: Due to the recent surge of Omicron and for the safety of my fans, the February shows have been rescheduled for this fall. All purchased tickets will be honored.

MPAC has been able to run most shows during the omicron wave, but the Morristown theater practices several precautions. The venue joined dozens of theaters in New Jersey last summer for the “Opening Night, Opening Right” safety campaign, which includes certain requirements for vaccination or negative testing among audience members.

All patrons 12 and older attending a performance must show proof of full vaccination or a recent negative test — a PCR or rapid antigen test administered by a medical professional or pharmacy. Click here to read complete MPAC guidelines.

Thomas ‘Ace’ Gallagher Joins the MCRC Executive Team

By
Frank Cahill
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Hanover Township Mayor Thomas "Ace" Gallagher

MORRIS COUNTY — Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, a prominent Hanover Township Committeeman has joined the MCRC Executive Team as Chair of the Morris County Teenage Republicans.

This is the perfect role for Ace as he is a strong voice advocating effective change that can bring positive solutions to issues concerning local communities on the county, state, and national levels.

The son of Terry & Michael Gallagher, “Ace” was born in Bayonne. His family moved to East Hanover Township where his mother taught music in the Hanover Township school district. Coming from a musical family, he inherited a rare talent. Ace was playing the drums at four and appearing on stage by the age of six. His passion follows him to this day – spanning a musical career of forty years on stage where he has played at some of the best venues and with some of the most impressive people. It was important for Ace to share his love and talent for the drums by teaching more than 18 years, two of which were spent teaching in Hanover Township schools.

Throughout Ace’s career in public and community service, he has accumulated numerous accomplishments, awards, and recognitions:

  • National recognition and award for One Day One School Beautification & Safety Initiative
  • Worked with the state of Massachusetts to create a One Day One School program for them
  • Created and coordinated the Hanover Township School & Park Traffic Safety Advisory Committee for which he received two recognitions from the County of Morris
  • 2011 elected to the Board of Education
  • 2012 Received black belt in Isshinryu Karate
  • 2013 re-elected to Board of Education
  • 2014 Sworn in as a member of Hanover Township Committee. Currently finishing the second term. Running uncontested for the third term.
  • NJ Green Achievement Award for Excellence in Forestry – Individual and group categories
  • NJ Forestry Association
  • NJ Urban Forestry Association
  • NJ DEP
  • NJ Shade Tree Federation
  • The SAGE Award from Livingston Township Committee
  • Set A Good Example Award- for his participation as a board member of Little League
  • Admired for his work with Bandit Industries, the second-largest manufacturer in forestry equipment. His recommendations have been incorporated into the equipment being used today.
  • Created the NJ Coalition 4 Education & Positive Choices and earned the NJ Governor’s Jefferson Award

One of Ace’s most notable achievements has been his creation of the NJ Coalition 4 Education & Positive Choices in which he has united educational leaders, law enforcement, and municipal leaders with residents of the community to increase awareness of the drug epidemic and foster a positive lifestyle for our youth.

Thomas “Ace” Gallagher resides in Whippany with his wife Sheila and two children where he continues to be a well-respected community leader.

Gallagher to Participate in NJ Coalition for Education & Positive Choices Seminar on Suicide Prevention

By
Frank Cahill
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Hanover Township Mayor Thomas "Ace" Gallagher

HANOVER — Deputy Mayor Thomas “Ace Gallagher will be participating in The NJ Coalition for Education & Positive Choices Suicide Prevention Seminar on the following dates:

Dates: Thursday, March 24 (Adults & Parents) and Thursday, March 31 (Teens)
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location:  Abundant Life Whippany, 43 South Jefferson Road, Whippany
Light refreshments will be served.

Suicide is a serious health concern and is the second leading cause of death among adolescents aged 15 – 24.  It is complicated and tragic but it is preventable.  Knowing the warning signs and how to get help saves lives.  How can members of communities work together to prevent suicide? In conjunction with the Mental Health Association, Abundant Life Whippany, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. The NJ Coalition for Education & Positive Choices (NJC4EPC) has worked to develop goals and strategies to increase awareness and prevent suicide. This high-powered group invites the public to attend these sessions to learn how to prevent suicide by learning the warning signs and risk factors. Learn how by asking non-judgmental questions you can get a child to share his or her thoughts with you.

The teen session will include a brief presentation focusing on what signs to look for in a friend who might be suicidal and provide some tips on what they can do. This will be followed by a peer-led discussion on teen mental health delivered in a safe, supportive space.

Hosted by:

Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, Deputy Mayor, Hanover Township
Mayor James R. Barberio, Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills
Mike Corcoran, Public Service Director, Town of Morristown
James Gannon, Morris County Sheriff
Mike Loock, Chief of Police, Hanover Township
Mental Health Association
Pastor Vernon Outlaw, Abundant Life Whippany
Mayor Joe Pannullo, East Hanover Township
Darnel Richardson, Chief of Police, Town of Morristown
Steven Shaw, Morris County Commissioner
Mayor Mark Taylor, Florham Park

For more information contact: [email protected]

The Morris County Republican Committee Leads the Way In Innovation by Announcing the First Political NFT Launch

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Republican Committee will be the first political party in the state to pilot an Non-Fungible Token

MORRIS COUNTY — Chairwoman Laura Marie Ali announced that the Morris County Republican Committee (MCRC) will be the first political party in the state of New Jersey to pilot an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) launch as part of its 2022 Digital Marketing Campaign and Fundraising Strategy. In fact, MCRC will be the first Republican organization in the country to do so.

“Morris County Republicans are committed to leading the way in innovation and technology that delivers results. We are excited that our initial launch will be three categories of NFTs at different price points as part of our 2022 digital marketing strategy this month. We are confident that this strategy will both attract new, engaged members and donors to our party”, Chairwoman Ali said.

“With more donors attracted to our organization through NFTs, we can raise the money needed to power our campaigns against the state’s deep-pocket Democrats. Republicans in New Jersey have to avail themselves of every opportunity to grow the party and win elections,” added the Chairwoman.

Ali said she believes the MCRC is the first Republican County organization in the nation to embrace fundraising through NFT’s. “The Morris County Republican Committee is uniquely positioned to implement this new way for people to engage with the Republican Party and the Morris County Republican brand. NFTs have exploded in the areas of art, games, and collectibles with over $24.9 billion worth of NFTs sold in 2021 with $5 billion sold in January of 2022 YTD so far”.

An NFT is a non-fungible token: non-fungible” meaning that it is unique and has a way of recording proof of ownership on a blockchain, giving the buyer confidence that what they are buying is authentic. It also provides provable scarcity and demand which gives NFTs their value. This one-of-a-kind digital asset can be bought and resold by the owner.

Owning one of this limited edition NFT Collectibles comes with special perks and benefits like admission to a party, VIP seating at conventions, and special offers.

The sale of the NFT’s will begin Thursday, January 27 when 39 Platinum level NFTs, 199 Gold, and 500 “Take Back NJ” digital buttons will be available. The Platinum NFTs will sell for $1,000 apiece; the Gold for $500 and the buttons will sell for $50 each. To get on the list to learn more about the NFTs and make a purchase go to nft.morrisgop.org.   The NFT can only be purchased with a credit card. The purchase of the tokens is compliant with New Jersey’s Election Law Enforcement Commission donor regulations.

Purchasers of the Platinum and Gold NFTs will receive certain benefits provided by the MCRC.

“We have been working with an exceptional partner on this project since the summer that has made the end-user buying experience easy. There is no need to own or understand cryptocurrency. They have been working hard to develop an ELEC-compliant front end to enable new users to purchase these one-of-a-kind NFTs. Buying one is easy with one-click signup and a credit card. All initial NFT purchasers will have special access to our next NFT launch this Spring to coincide with our annual convention”, said Chairwoman Ali. “Also, by putting your name on our contact list by clicking here, you will be entered into a free drawing for a free NFT.”

You can watch our explainer video and find out more information about the actual launch and benefits of NFT ownership by accessing the pre-launch webpage by clicking here.

Barranco Sworn In New Jersey General Assembly

By
Frank Cahill
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Barranco Sworn In New Jersey General Assembly

MORRIS COUNTY — Christian Barranco (R-Jefferson) was among the new Republican members of the New Jersey General Assembly to be sworn in on Tuesday, January 11 in Trenton as the Legislature begins the 2022–2023 session. He will receive an annual salary of $49,000/year.

Christian Barranco graduated from Don Bosco Technical High School in 1987. Barranco earned a B.A. in political science and government from Montclair State University in 2017. His career experience includes owning Flowers Right Now, LLC, and working as a project manager with McPhee Electric, a journeyman and wireman with IBEW Local 102, and a project manager with Beach Electric Company.

Christian Barranco (R-Jefferson)

Christian received 29.3% of the vote or a total of 45,224 votes.

Members of the New Jersey General Assembly serve two-year terms and are not subject to term limits. New Jersey legislators assume office at noon of the second Tuesday in January following the election.

His current term ends on January 9, 2024.

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Morris Focus was founded in 2017 and is published in print and online formats. Its mission is to provide timely and accurate news coverage to Morris County residents and promote community engagement and involvement. The newspaper covers various topics, including local government, education, business, and sports. We can be reached by calling (973) 559-6000—a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce.

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