Parsippany Focus was first released as a monthly printed newspaper on October 1, 1989, mailed to every resident of the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.
At that time, Parsippany Focus was named the “Official newspaper of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce (PACC).” Publisher Frank Cahill was named on the Board of Directors of PACC in 1989, eventually elected Vice President, and then President-elect (but due to commitments with Focus, did not continue as President, just remained on the Board of Directors.) He also created a Retail Committee to work with area businesses.
Parsippany Focus converted to a weekly newspaper serving the residents of Parsippany-Troy Hills in June 1991. Eventually, Parsippany Focus was named the legal newspaper of the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills. This was the first weekly newspaper in many years appointed to serve the needs of the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.
Due to the competition of newspapers in the late 90s and the change of advertising markets of major companies devoting their advertising dollars to major newspapers, the advertising revenues of Parsippany Focus decreased to a point where it was not profitable to publish. Focus ceased publication in 1996.
Since then, we have received many requests that Parsippany needs a “hometown” newspaper that covers Parsippany news and events.
Due to the technology of the internet, we have created this website for the people of Parsippany to publicize the events that involve their everyday life. Birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, business briefs, honor rolls, club news, community announcements, and school happenings (the same basic information the print version of Parsippany Focus featured from 1989 through the late 1990s). “All Local, All Parsippany.”
We are always looking for freelance writers to take on assignments. We also welcome letters to the editor, story ideas, community announcements, and story corrections. If you have anything that you want to publicize, send it to Parsippany Focus, 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 304, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054. Our email is news@parsippanyfocus.com. Don’t forget to include pictures! Our main office telephone number is (973) 559-6000.
Letters to the Editor: Do you have an opinion to express? Send letters to news@parsippanyfocus.com. Disclaimer: To be considered for publication, letters to the editor must include the writer’s full name, address, and daytime phone number. Letters may be condensed, although care is taken to preserve the writer’s comments (maximum 400 words). Copyright in material submitted to Parsippany Focus and accepted for publication remains with the author, but Parsippany Focus may freely reproduce it in print, electronic or other forms. We are unable to acknowledge receipt of letters. All political letters must be submitted by residents and/or candidates only. All political letters must be received before Noon on Sunday before the election to be considered.
Website Advertising — We have limited website advertising space available. Banner ads, links, and sidebar ads can be purchased monthly and displayed on selected website pages.
Parsippany Focus routinely publishes reports provided directly by municipal police and fire agencies under its Police-Fire category. Nothing in those reports should be construed as a finding of guilt, as they are a record of the actions these agencies took on a given day. Parsippany Focus policies regarding the use of these items are as follows:
Arrest reports, summonses, and any court determination are a matter of public record and can be published without the person’s permission. The newspaper has a right to publish such public information for the benefit of the public.
We do not generally publish the names of juveniles involved in incidents. However, if a juvenile suspect is tried in an adult court (rather than in Family Court), we may name the suspect. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
We will amend a police blotter item only if the person involved has dropped all charges related to the incident in question or if the person is found not guilty after a trial. This will be done if the matter is brought to the attention of Parsippany Focus or if the named party notifies us with accompanying legal documentation which would corroborate such a request.
Any posted content that is accurate will not be removed. We do not remove items if the person is granted a Pre-Trial Intervention (commonly called a PTI) or similar program since that is not a finding of “not guilty”. The incident occurred, and it would be wrong to alter the record of an incident in the community if there is no finding that it did not occur.
We will be willing to amend the record of an event if the information provided to us is deficient or wrong.
Corrections, Retractions, and Clarifications
If you would like to request a correction, retraction, or clarification of a news story posted on parsippanyfocus.com, please email flcahill@parsippanyfocus.com. Please include as much information as you can, including the link to the story, the date and headline of the story, and the specific portion or portions of the story you are requesting to be corrected, retracted or clarified.
If the information we report is inaccurate, we will provide a correction, clarification, or retraction, as necessary, at our discretion. We reserve the right to remove, delete or modify any news content on parsippanyfocus.com, as we see fit. But if a story posted on the Website is correct, we will not remove, delete or modify it. For example, when we report that someone is arrested, that information is still correct, even if the charges may have been dismissed later. Any news content posted about an accurate individual will not be removed.
The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills proclaimed October 1, 2014, as “Parsippany Focus Day.“
“ALL LOCAL, ALL PARSIPPANY™” is a registered trademark of Galleria Associates, LLC. Parsippany Focus and Zoomus Marketing, LLC copyright all photographs, stories, and videos.
Parsippany Focus acknowledges Cathy Haddon, Editor, for the hard work she contributed to Focus while publishing the printed version. Many thanks to Cathy.
Parsippany Focus published a printed 25th Anniversary Issue, which was distributed throughout Parsippany, on October 1, 2014.
Parsippany Focus 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 304 Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 (973) 559-6000 news@parsippanyfocus.com
PARSIPPANY — Par-Troy West Little League 2024 Season Opening was held on Friday, April 19. “This year marks the 72nd season that Par-Troy West has had the privilege of serving the children of Parsippany. That’s a lot of baseball and softball,” said President Frank Neglia.
“Through the 300+ children in the program combined in both baseball and softball. The Board of Directors continues to work hard and put in many volunteer hours to make sure that your child’s experience will be fun-filled and enjoyable,” continued President Frank Neglia.
“I love opening day,” declared Mayor Barberio. “Baseball has always been a passion of mine, and with baseball comes warm weather, time spent outside with family and friends, and the community coming together to cheer our kids on. Play ball!”
Throughout the evening, there were moments of triumph and moments of defeat, but through it all, the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship prevailed. Players cheered each other on, offering high-fives and words of encouragement, while coaches offered guidance and support from the sidelines.
Frank Neglia, President of Par-Troy West Little League, Throws Opening Day’s First Pitch”
“We would also like to thank the Township of Parsippany, The Parsippany Recreation Department, Parsippany Parks, and Forestry, and the Board of Education for the opportunity to use the ball field in town and at the schools during the season. Their support helps ensure that all Little Leaguers have a place to play.”
National Anthem
Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Michael dePierro and PAL Executive Director Thomas J. Bushnauskas
Par-Troy West Little League (“PTWLL”) is a non-profit IRS 501(C3) organization, established in 1952. The league is run by a Board of Directors, all of whom are volunteers.
The Par-Troy West Little League program includes divisions for all children, ages 4–16. In addition to practicing on-field fundamentals and the excitement of playing games in a competitive environment, Par-Troy West pridefully enlists the sport to strengthen its participants’ self-esteem and confidence.
As the crowd dispersed and families made their way home, the magic of Opening Day lingered in the air. For these young athletes, it was just the beginning of an incredible journey filled with endless possibilities and countless moments of joy.
Council members Judy Hernandez and Frank NegliaParsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella and Joseph RomanPAL Executive Director Executive Director Thomas J. Bushnauskas, Viv Santana, Past PTE President; Former Council President Michael dePierro, Councilman Justin Musella, Mayor James Barberio, Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi, Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, PTE President Frank Neglia, Parsippany Recreation Director Joseph Plescia, Councilman Matt McGraft and Nicolas Branzino.Play Ball! Mayor James Barberio throws out one of the first ballsMichael dePierro Throws the Ball with Precision and StyleCouncilman Justin Musella launching a fastballCouncilwoman Judith Hernandez Delivers a Pitch with PrecisionCouncilman Matthew McGrath Launches a Ball with PrecisionNick Grossi Throws a Ball in Honor of Wife, Morris County Clerk Ann GrossiParsippany-Troy Hills Recreation Director Joseph Plescia Contemplates the Ball Before Unleashing a FastballPAL Executive Director Thomas J. Bushnauskas takes the catcher off guard with his ballNicholas Bronzino Contemplates His Next Move with the Ball
PARSIPPANY — Members of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills (WCPTH) gathered at Bruno’s Bistro on Route 10, Parsippany, on Sunday, April 24, 2024, to celebrate 70 years of community service and camaraderie. The event welcomed 43 members and five distinguished guests, including Parsippany Mayor James Barberio, President of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Club (NJSFWC) Shirley Holly, President-Elect Barbara McCloskey, Highlands District Vice President Lynn Webb, and Frank Cahill, Publisher of Parsippany Focus and Morris Focus.
Mayor Barberio read a proclamation declaring April 21, 2024, as Woman’s Club of Parsippany Day.
As attendees entered the venue, they were treated to a beautiful display of club memorabilia, including pictures and pins. Mayor Barberio read a proclamation declaring April 21, 2024, as Woman’s Club of Parsippany Day.
Current and past club presidents presented a brief history of the club from 1954 to today. The club was chartered in 1954 and the first meeting was held at Fellowship Hall at the Parsippany Presbyterian Church on Route 46. In the 1960s the club spearheaded the drive for a public library and Day Care Center. In the 1970’s the club initiated, “The Source”, a drug abuse control center in conjunction with the Morris County Department of Drug Abuse. Throughout the years the club initiated many students awards starting with the Citizenship Award in 1955 given to a deserving 8th-grade boy and girl, high school scholarships began with Parsippany High in 1958, extended to Parsippany Hills when it opened in 1969 and expanded to Parsippany students attending Morris County Vocational School in 2023, Reading Awards for one 5th grader in each elementary school began in the 2000’s, and a Spelling Bee for 5th graders in was launched in 2016. This is a brief overview of what the club is about. We participate in town functions (Memorial Day Parade, Fall Festival, Trunk or Treat), and donate to local organizations like the library, food pantry, ambulance and police squads, JBWS, and many more. We also support projects sponsored by the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs such as the State Special Project, Operation Holiday Stocking, and Girl’s Career Institute.
Entertainment was provided by the very talented Parsippany Hills High School Viking Jazz Ensemble directed by Michael Iapicca. The ladies were dancing in their seats, enjoying a great musical treat from these gifted performers!
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC, which are the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the country/state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. New members are always welcome! For more information call Ginny at (973) 887-0336, e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com or visit www.parsippanywomansclub.org or follow the club on FACEBOOK, Twitter, or Instagram.
Parsippany Hills High School Viking Jazz Ensemble directed by Michael IapiccaThe 70th Anniversary Planning Committee: Diana Craig, Marilyn Zarzycki, Marilyn Marion, Betsy Lowry, Cathy Cerbo, Ginny Scala, and Janet Reilly.
On April 25th the Parsippany Board of Education met at Parsippany Hills High School to give out numerous awards to our students from our schools for their achievements and after a short recess, returned to conduct their normal business. There were three residents in attendance (including myself) and when the public comment portion of the meeting was opened no one opted to speak. The vote for the final adoption of the 2024-2025 budget of approximately $182 million passed unanimously. This budget stayed within the 2% cap without the need to cut services or programs to compensate the 1500+ staff (600+ of which are our teachers) and their benefits to serve the 7000+ students of the district.
This was a fiscally responsible budget. The district has a financial audit done every year and for the past six years, it has been a clean audit. This was all through COVID and the recent rise in inflation. I know about this since I served on the Board of Education during that time and the budget for the 2018-2019 school year was $150 million. That is only a $32 million increase or about 20% from that time.
Now there are some who think that there are opportunities where savings can occur and that the budget increases are significantly more than required. Where is it that is expected to be done? Discontinue an award-winning music program? Stop maintenance on one of the fourteen 50+ year old school buildings? Lay off large numbers of staff, many of whom live in Parsippany as well.
Over 75% of the budget is to pay staff and their benefits, and it is contractual. As a result, it does not allow for the significant cuts some may be proposing. Additionally, these budgets over time have allowed for capital improvements and more recently, an addition under construction at Littleton School, all without requiring a referendum that many other districts in New Jersey have had to do for projects such as door, window, and roof replacements. This is a testament to the fiscally responsible administration of the district.
I encourage you to watch Parsippany’s Video on the Go video “Beyond the Bell, Inside our District: Ep.1 School Budget” which was recently posted. It explains to the administration what goes into crafting this budget.
Matthew DeVitto Former Parsippany BOE member (2018-2023) Parsippany
PARSIPPANY — In a demonstration of its unwavering dedication to community involvement and member satisfaction, Garden Savings Federal Credit Union enthusiastically participated in the “Staples Small Business Showcase” hosted at the Parsippany location.
With a steadfast commitment to enhancing member experiences, Garden Savings Federal Credit Union eagerly seized the opportunity to exhibit its extensive array of financial solutions during this event on Thursday, April 25. From cutting-edge banking products to meticulously crafted lending services, the credit union proudly showcased its comprehensive offerings tailored to meet the unique requirements of local entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Moreover, Garden Savings Federal Credit Union’s active participation in the “Staples Small Business Showcase” was made possible through a strategic partnership with the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce. This collaboration further underscored the event’s significance as an exclusive opportunity for members. By leveraging this collaborative platform, the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to fostering local partnerships and empowering small businesses to flourish not only in the Parsippany community but also beyond its borders.
In an additional heartwarming note, PJ Parise had the exceptional opportunity to join his mother, Stephanie, during “Take Your Child to Work Day,” further emphasizing the credit union’s dedication to family values and community involvement. Stephanie is the branch manager of the Parsippany located at 129 Littleton Road.
Garden Savings Federal Credit Union currently has branches located in Parsippany, Dover, Newark, and South Orange.
For more information on “Staples Small Business Showcase” contact Frank Cahill, Executive Board Member, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, by calling (973) 559-6000.
MORRIS COUNTY — Rose House, a nonprofit organization that creates forever homes for people with developmental disabilities throughout Morris County, announces its 8th annual “Day of Dreams” golf event.
The outing will be held on Monday, July 8, 2024, at the Brooklake Country Club in Florham Park. Funds raised from this year’s event will be used to purchase a van to transport Rose House’s clients with special needs to medical appointments, day programs and other places their caregivers need to take them to.
“We’ll be celebrating two special occasions at this year’s golf event,” said Rose House CEO Tom Mitchell. “Proceeds will enable us to get a new transport van at our Parsippany Group Home. This is significant because all 13 vehicles in our fleet across all six locations will have been replaced. In addition, it will commence the celebration of our organization’s 25th anniversary, which will occur less than a month after the event.”
Transport vans for special needs individuals are more costly than typical vans because they must be wheelchair accessible and include specific safety features. Rose House does not receive assistance from The State of New Jersey or Medicaid, which is why fundraisers including the golf event are essential.
The Day of Dreams event will feature a golf tournament with contests and prizes, followed by a cocktail hour and luncheon which includes a silent auction and raffles. Check-in begins at 8:00 a.m. with the tournament starting at 8:30 a.m. Registration, which includes the luncheon, is $350 per golfer or $1,400 per foursome.
Registration for golfers, sponsorships, and general donations can be made at Rose House’s official golf event by clicking here.
Those who can’t make the event but still wish to support the cause can do so by clicking here. Donors can check to see if their employers will match the donation.
Items for silent auction baskets are needed as well. Please call (973) 984-0006, x121, or email contact@therosehouse.org for more information about this event.
“My office is constantly working to bring federal resources back to New Jersey to improve our quality of life and keep costs down for residents. Over the past three budgets, I am proud of the Community Project grants I’ve secured to address the most pressing issues of our district, such as mitigating flooding, upgrading aging infrastructure, combating auto thefts, workforce development, and more,” said Rep. Sherrill. “The Community Project funding program operates best when I work alongside community members to meet the needs of NJ-11 residents. I encourage local leaders to utilize our resource guide and submit a proposal for consideration.”
This year, each Member of Congress can submit up to fifteen requests to the House Appropriations Committee. Congressman Sherrill will fight hard for these projects but there is no guarantee that submissions will be included in the final Appropriations bill. These requests are all subject to review by the House Appropriations Committee and the Congressional budget process. To take effect, appropriations bills approved by the House Appropriations Committee must be agreed to by both houses of Congress and signed into law by the President.
If you have a Community Project proposal for the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations process or have questions about the selection process, please review our Community Project Funding Resource Guide. You can also call the Congresswoman’s District Office at (973) 526-5668.
To submit a Community Project request, please visit our website. Representative Sherrill and her team will carefully consider and evaluate each request. Please note the window to submit project proposals is shorter this year and the types of projects allowed have changed as a result of new restrictions put in place by House Republican leadership.
The deadline to submit an application is May 1, 2024 at 9:00 a.m.
This extremely tight deadline is driven by the guidelines of the Appropriations Committee just released yesterday and do not allow for flexibility. Submissions after the deadline will most likely not be able to be considered.
MORRIS COUNTY — Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) announced the launch of her resource guide and Community Project Funding application portal for the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations process.
“My office is constantly working to bring federal resources back to New Jersey to improve our quality of life and keep costs down for residents. Over the past three budgets, I am proud of the Community Project grants I’ve secured to address the most pressing issues of our district, such as mitigating flooding, upgrading aging infrastructure, combating auto thefts, workforce development, and more,” said Rep. Sherrill. “The Community Project funding program operates best when I work alongside community members to meet the needs of NJ-11 residents. I encourage local leaders to utilize our resource guide and submit a proposal for consideration.”
This year, each Member of Congress can submit up to fifteen requests to the House Appropriations Committee. Congressman Sherrill will fight hard for these projects but there is no guarantee that submissions will be included in the final Appropriations bill. These requests are all subject to review by the House Appropriations Committee and the Congressional budget process. To take effect, appropriations bills approved by the House Appropriations Committee must be agreed to by both houses of Congress and signed into law by the President.
If you have a Community Project proposal for the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations process or have questions about the selection process, please review our Community Project Funding Resource Guide. You can also call the Congresswoman’s District Office at (973) 526-5668.
To submit a Community Project request, please visit our website. Representative Sherrill and her team will carefully consider and evaluate each request. Please note the window to submit project proposals is shorter this year and the types of projects allowed have changed as a result of new restrictions put in place by House Republican leadership.
The deadline to submit an application is May 1, 2024 at 9:00 a.m.
This extremely tight deadline is driven by the guidelines of the Appropriations Committee just released yesterday and do not allow for flexibility. Submissions after the deadline will most likely not be able to be considered.
MORRIS COUNTY — Sons of Italy -Lodge 2561 continues to expand its presence in Morris County, where it is well known for its charitable endeavors. At the organization’s April General Membership meeting on April 24th, they were proud to swear in an additional nine new members.
This was in addition to the 11 new members who were sworn in at the previous month’s meeting. The well-attended meeting, with 65 members and guests in attendance, was conducted at Forte Pizzeria & Ristorante in Randolph. Lodge 2561 is now the third largest Lodge in the State of New Jersey and continues to grow in numbers regularly.
The Oath of Office for new members was conducted by Lodge President Joe Jannarone Jr., 1st V.P. Harry Mangiri, 2nd V.P. Mike Fazzio, Orator Phil Parziale, and Immediate Past Lodge President Bob Adamo. Each new member was presented with a membership packet, which included among other items an Official Certificate of Membership and Organization Lapel Pin.
New members included: Thomas Trapasso, Giancarlo Colosuanno, Richard Courtney, Louis Cuomo, Jeffrey Odee, Matt Fendler, Dan Cassidy, James Messina, and Ken Borruso.
The Sons of Italy is one of America’s largest and longest-standing Italian American organizations.
The Morris County Lodge – 2561 was founded as a non-profit organization that contributes thousands of dollars to worthwhile local charities and families. 100% of what the Lodge raises in various events goes directly back to local charities, including but not limited to the Parsippany Food Pantry, High School Scholarships, the Valerie Fund, The Shelter for Battered Women, Alzheimer’s, and many more.
Explore upcoming events hosted by the Sons of Italy at www.soi2561.org or on Facebook.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Economic Development Alliance (Alliance) and Morris County Economic Development Corporation are proud to announce the lineup of events planned for the 2024 Morris County Small Business Week, which will be observed from April 29 through May 3.
“Small Business Week in Morris County celebrates the heartbeat of our community – the businesses lining our town’s Main Streets as well as the innovative startups driving the future industry. Their vibrant entrepreneurial spirit fuels a local economy that is essential to the sustained prosperity and growth of our region,” said Commissioner Director Christine Myers.
The events will coincide with National Small Business Week, which has been a cornerstone celebration of America’s entrepreneurial spirit for over six decades, honoring the dedication and economic impact of small businesses.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our community, and Morris County Small Business Week is a testament to their resilience and innovation. We are excited to recognize their contributions and provide valuable resources to support their growth,” said Craig Schlosser, President & CEO of the Alliance.
The week’s agenda boasts a diverse array of in-person events, each designed to empower entrepreneurs and small business owners with knowledge and networking opportunities:
These complimentary events offer attendees a chance to gain insights into various aspects of business management, marketing strategies, funding opportunities, and essential resources available to small businesses in Morris County.
“Small Business Week is a great opportunity to highlight how our businesses are truly the economic engine driving progress and the quality of life in New Jersey,” stated Kelly Brozyna, State Director & Chief Executive Officer, New Jersey Small Business Development Centers.
Small Business Week is an invaluable opportunity for entrepreneurs and small business owners to connect, learn, and grow. Join us in celebrating their achievements and empowering their success. For more information and to register for events, visit Morris County Economic Development Alliance by clicking here.
Morris County Small Business Week is sponsored by First Bank and Morristown Airport (MMU). The Program is Presented in Partnership with the Morris County Economic Development Alliance, an affiliated 501c3 nonprofit organization of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce, Morris County Economic Development Corporation, a division of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce, New Jersey Small Business Development Center at Fairleigh Dickinson University, United States Small Business Administration, Madison Area Chamber of Commerce, Chatham Area Chamber of Commerce, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, Roxbury Area Chamber of Commerce, and Start-Up Move Up Morris.
PARSIPPANY — Tyler Geddes and Eashan Iyer were bestowed with the prestigious rank of Eagle during the Parsippany BSA Troop 173’s ceremony held on Sunday, April 13. The event was held at the Puddingstone Community Clubhouse.
The Eagle Scout rank holds immense significance within the Scouting movement, representing the highest achievement in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) program. It symbolizes honor and responsibility of the utmost degree.
The statistic highlighting that only 5% of Scouts attain the Eagle rank underscores the demanding criteria necessary to reach this pinnacle. To ascend to Eagle Scout status, a Scout must exhibit leadership prowess, accumulate a requisite number of merit badges spanning diverse interests, undertake a substantial community service project, and embody Scouting’s core principles and values.
Upon achieving Eagle rank, a Scout retains this distinction for life, irrespective of age or continued involvement in Scouting. This enduring designation serves as a testament to the exemplary character, unwavering dedication, and exemplary leadership qualities demonstrated by Eagle Scouts.
Eashan Iyer, Mayor James Barberio and Tyler Geddes
Eagle Scouts are encouraged to serve as paragons and mentors both within Scouting and their broader communities. As you rightly noted, many Eagle Scouts excel in various fields such as the military, academia, professions, clergy, business, and politics. The values and skills imbibed through the Scouting program often contribute significantly to their accomplishments in these spheres.
It’s important to recognize that while Eagle Scouts have achieved remarkable feats, not all follow identical paths. Some may discover success and leadership in alternative realms or industries, yet the principles and values instilled during their Eagle Scout journey continue to exert a positive influence on their lives.
Tyler Geddes
Tyler Geddes began his Scouting experience with Parsippany Cub Scout Pack 5 under the leadership of Mr. Ed Sheiffle. He was enthusiastic to join based on his brothers Alex and Ethan’s experience in Cub Scouts and his participation in their Pack meetings. Tyler completed all his achievements in Cub Scouts and earned the highest achievement in Cub Scouts, the Arrow of Light. During the Pack 5 Blue and Gold dinner in March 2017, he crossed over into Scout Troop 173.
Throughout Tyler’s time in Boy Scouts, he earned all the requirements to achieve all six Boy Scouts of America (BSA) ranks, including the highest rank of Eagle Scout. While progressing through the ranks, he took on the roles of instructor, patrol leader in Troop 173, and den chief in Pack 5. As a den chief, Tyler assisted Wolf Scouts as they ranked up into Bear Scouts over two years. As an instructor for Troop 173, Tyler taught and demonstrated new skills for incoming Boy Scouts. He valued the time in the patrol leader position as the most informative as he improved his leadership skills in guiding his patrol. His most important responsibility was to guide, lead, and ensure his patrol was prepared for each meeting and camping trip. Tyler is grateful to his Scoutmasters, Mr. Les Wu, Mr. Michael Catapano, Mr. David Franz, and Mr. Paul Lomelo, for the skills he learned along the way.
Eashan Iyer and Tyler Geddes with Mayor James Barberio
One of Tyler’s favorite memories in Troop 173 was during summer camp at Winnebago Scout Camp. While there, he enjoyed the fun aquatic activities and completed numerous merit badges. He also organized and participated in skits each night around the fire for his Communication merit badge. During the winter, Tyler enjoyed the Klondike camping trips where, as part of the senior sled team, they won 1st place.
Tyler achieved the rank of Eagle in October of 2023. Furthermore, Tyler earned 26 merit badges and the National Outdoor Award for Camping and completed 182 service hours assisting the troop and the community.
Tyler’s proudest accomplishment in Scouting was his Eagle project, where he assisted the Morris County Park Commission by building and installing four park benches at Tourne County Park in Denville. After getting his proposal approved, Tyler raised $600 for the materials he would need and led volunteers, including fellow Scouts, in constructing and installing the benches at four separate locations within the park. The new benches create a more comfortable park for visitors who come to bike, picnic, hike, etc. Bruce Benson, Tyler’s Eagle coach, was vital throughout the project as he shared his knowledge and understanding.
Tyler attends Morris Catholic High School in Denville and is on the varsity team in both winter and spring track. He participates in numerous honor societies, including the English Honor Society, the History Honor Society, and the National Honor Society. Tyler plans to attend Rowan University in the Fall of 2024 to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Former Council President Michael dePierro
Tyler earned 26 merit badges: Archery, Environmental Science, Art, Family Life,* Basketry, Fingerprinting, Camping,* First Aid,Canoeing, Communication, Forestry, Citizenship in the Community, Kayaking, Citizenship in the Nation, Metalwork, Citizenship in Society, Music, Citizenship in the World, Personal Fitness, Communication, Cooking,* Collections, Personal Management, Communication, Space Exploration, Swimming,* Emergency Preparedness,* and Wood Carving. (*Denotes Eagle Required)
Eashan Iyer
Eashan began his Scouting career as a Tiger Cub in Pack 142. As a budding scientist, he loved engineering his Pinewood Derby car to perfection. He earned his Arrow of Light and joined Troop 173 in March 2017.
As Eashan advanced in Scouting, he took on leadership roles through being an instructor and a patrol leader. Eashan is grateful for the help of past Scoutmasters Mr. Wu, Mr. Catapano, Mr. Franz, and present Scoutmaster Mr. Lomelo.
Eashan fondly remembers his time in Scouting. His favorites are playing sharks and minnows and basketball at meetings. He also has fond memories of playing manhunt at campouts. During a campout, he built a circuit that powered an LED and recalls this as an inspiring experience. Eashan also enjoyed the many annual Turkey in a Can Campouts.
As a member of Troop 173, Eashan contributed to his community by collecting food donations at St. Christopher’s Church and participating in the annual Scouting for Food drive. He has a total of 225 service hours. He has also earned the National Outdoor Award for Camping and has camped for a total of 25 nights, including at Camp Winnebago.
Growing up near the unique neighborhood of Mount Tabor, Eashan was within a few miles of streets lined with ornate Victorian homes, octagonal structures, and gathering spaces with stories to tell at every corner. He saw the opportunity to bridge the gap between modern technology and the neighborhood’s historical treasures and approached the Mount Tabor Historical Society with his idea. He put together a diverse team with volunteers from Mount Tabor, his high school, his Scout troop, and others to create webpages and install physical signs. Eashan wholeheartedly thanks Mr. Matthew Enslow for his assistance in sign production, Mr. Bruce Benson for his valuable mentorship as an Eagle project coach, and Mrs. Michelle Munn for her support on behalf of the Mount Tabor Historical Society, and donors for their valuable monetary support. His perseverance paid off as the self-guided tour was unveiled to the community in a decidedly old-school ribbon-cutting ceremony—a gathering of the community and elected officials. It was a moment of pride for the entire neighborhood.
Eashan is currently a senior at the Academy for Mathematics, Science, and Engineering. At school, he is a member of the golf team and co-president of the physics club. Outside of school, he is involved in scientific research and has co-authored a paper with Dr. Christian Ferko in theoretical high-energy physics titled “Quantization of the ModMax Oscillator.” He also is an intern with Pfizer’s smart factory team under Digital Manufacturing and Global Services, developing and testing virtual reality simulations that will be used to cost-effectively train shop floor workers. Eashan loves to ski with his family and the school ski club. Eashan is passionate about origami; he is doing an independent study in the mathematics of origami in school. He delivered a lecture about golden venture folding at MIT in November 2023. He will be attending Brown University in the fall of 2024 to pursue undergraduate studies in physics.
You can learn more about Eashan through his website by clicking here.
Eashan Iyer with Mount Tabor Historical Society President Michelle LaConto Munn outside the gated entrance of the historic Mount Tabor Neighborhood in Parsippany. Eashan is holding one of the signs placed throughout Mount Tabor.
Eashan earned 22 merit badges: American Cultures, Environmental Science,* Art Family Life,* Camping,* Fingerprinting, Chess, First Aid,* Citizenship in the Community,* Game Design, Citizenship in the Nation,* Hiking,* Citizenship in the World,* Music, Citizenship in Society,* Personal Fitness,* Communication,* Personal Management,* Cooking,* Programming, Emergency Preparedness,* and Scholarship. (*Denotes Eagle Required.)
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine – May 2024. Click here to read the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — On Tuesday, April 23 at 6:52 a.m. Mr. Bernard Kapuscinski, 56, was traveling west on Route 202 (Littleton Road) when his vehicle struck the curb on the passenger side, causing Mr. Kapuscinski to lose control of his vehicle, a 2013 Honda Pilot.
The 2013 Honda Pilo then ran off the roadway hitting the utility pole on the right side of the road which caused his vehicle to flip over and land on its roof.
Mr. Kapuscinski was removed from the vehicle with minor lacerations and back pain. Powder Mill Towing removed the vehicle from the scene.
Mr. Kapuscinski was transported by Parsippany Emergency Medical Services to Morristown Medical Center.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Elvin Giordano investigated the accident. At the time of this article, there were no summons issued.
