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Morris County Officers Receive Scouting America’s Lifetime Achievement Awards

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Corporal Erica Valvano, Sheriff James Gannon, Warden Christopher Klein

MORRIS COUNTY — Scouting America, Patriots’ Path Council honored two Morris County Sheriff’s Office officers and other local citizens at the annual Morris County Lifetime Achievement Awards Dinner on Wednesday, June 18, in East Hanover.

Among this year’s Lifetime Achievement award honorees are Warden Christopher Klein of the Morris County Correctional Facility and Corporal Erica Valvano of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach and Planning Section’s Hope One team. The event was chaired by Jack Ambrose, a past Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Chief Warrant Officer, and Chief of the Patrol Division for Morris County’s Sheriff’s Office.

This event recognized outstanding citizens for their community service, as evidenced by their leadership and interests within the Morris County community, and for embodying the values of the century-old Scout Oath and Law in their personal and professional lives. Morris County is part of the Scouting America Patriots’ Path Council, along with the counties of Middlesex, Morris, Somerset, and Sussex. In the council, over 5,000 adult volunteers deliver the values of Scouting to over 12,000 Scouts. The program provided the following biographies.

Warden Christopher Klein began his career with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office/ Bureau of Corrections in September of 1999 as an Officer. Warden Klein worked in various areas of the Correctional Facility, including the Intake/Processing Unit and the Policy and Procedures Unit. In 2007, Warden Klein was promoted to the rank of Sergeant, where he managed the Policy and Procedures Unit, the New Jersey Department of Corrections State Inspection, and Accreditation through the American Correctional Association. In 2012, Warden Klein was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and was assigned the role of Administrative Lieutenant. As the Administrative Lieutenant, he managed the Training Unit, Fire Safety Unit, Medical Unit, Policy and Procedures Unit, and Quartermaster Unit. He has overseen the New Jersey Department of Corrections State Inspection and the Accreditation Department, where the Morris County Correctional Facility received its 4th accreditation from the American Correctional Association. In August of 2013, Warden Klein was promoted to his current position of Warden for the Morris County Correctional Facility. As Warden, he is responsible for the daily oversight of over 180 sworn and non-sworn members of the Bureau’s three divisions: Administrative Division, Support Services Division, and Security Division.

Corporal Erica Valvano is a motivated law enforcement professional with over 21 years of experience dedicated to maintaining her agency’s high level of professionalism by improving relationships with the community and developing innovative ways to address community issues. She found her passion for a career in law enforcement as a Boy Scouts of America Police Explorer sponsored by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. She continues to serve as the lead advisor with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Post youth program. Her career began in the Protective Services Division, where she was assigned to access control and later prisoner transportation. In 2010, Corporal Valvano was transferred to the Community Outreach and Planning Section to cover details of community services. The Project Lifesaver Program, CALEA, Crime Stoppers, and the development of policies and procedures. On April 3, 2017, Corporal Valvano assisted with launching the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Hope One mobile outreach vehicle for addiction, recovery, and mental health services. In October 2018, she applied for and received a Bureau of Justice grant to expand the Hope One Project with the launch of the Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative (PAARI). The Hope One Project received the 2019 IACP Michael Shanahan Leadership in Public/ Private Cooperation Award. In 2019, Corporal Valvano was honored to receive the “Community Impact Award” from New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement. She has assisted nine counties in replicating Hope One throughout New Jersey. These law enforcement diversion programs reflect her passion to help people in the community.

Sheriff James M. Gannon and Alan Robinson, Undersheriff for the Bureau of Corrections, recognized Warden Klein and Corporal Valvano. Sheriff Gannon said, “Warden Klein and Corporal Valvano are exceptional Morris County Sheriff’s Office representatives. Chris has professionalism and a demeanor perfect for running the best County Jail in the State. Erica has impacted many and made a difference in more lives than anyone I know. I am so proud of them and their work as officers of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.”

Ferring Pharmaceutical Opens Gene Therapy Manufacturing Facility in Parsippany

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Ferring Pharmaceuticals’ newly approved U.S. Operations Center at 100 Interpace Parkway in Parsippany expands local manufacturing, creates new opportunities for pharmaceutical professionals, and reinforces Ferring’s commitment to supporting the community.

PARSIPPANY — Ferring Pharmaceutical, a global life sciences company focused on reproductive medicine, uro-oncology, orthopaedics, and gastroenterology—including microbiome therapeutics—held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new 12,000-square-foot gene therapy manufacturing facility at its U.S. headquarters in Parsippany.

The new facility is dedicated to producing ADSTILADRIN, the first and only FDA-approved gene therapy administered directly to the bladder for the treatment of high-risk, non–muscle–invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). This therapy is intended for patients who no longer respond to Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG).

Unlike traditional gene therapies that are often single-dose treatments, ADSTILADRIN is delivered via catheter every three months. Bipin Dalmia, Senior Vice President and Global Head of the Uro-Oncology Franchise at Ferring, noted that the goal is to manage high-risk bladder cancer as a chronic disease. Cancer-free patients may continue receiving the therapy for three to five years. The drug’s Phase 3 clinical trials lasted five years.

Under Ferring’s global production strategy, the drug substance will be manufactured in Finland, while the Parsippany facility will serve as the worldwide hub for producing the final dosage form.

Although the cost of the Parsippany facility was not disclosed, Dalmia shared that Ferring has invested over $1 billion in ADSTILADRIN over the past decade, including nearly $500 million in manufacturing infrastructure.

“Our strategy is threefold,” Dalmia explained. “First, we’re preparing for global demand by ensuring sufficient capacity. Second, we’re managing risk by diversifying our manufacturing footprint with dual sources for both drug substance and product. And third, we aim to control costs that are typically high for gene therapies.”

ADSTILADRIN received FDA approval for patient use in December 2022, and the Parsippany plant was approved for production in April 2025. Regulatory filings for the therapy are underway in the European Union, Canada, and Israel, with additional submissions planned for four more countries this year. A Phase 3 trial is currently ongoing in Japan.

Currently, ADSTILADRIN is the only gene therapy produced at the Parsippany site, but Dalmia indicated the facility could support multiple products in the future.

The new facility currently employs 23 people, with plans to expand to 67. Ferring’s Parsippany headquarters, which opened in 2014 on a 25-acre campus, employs approximately 600 full-time and 200 contingent workers.

Ferring’s global headquarters are located in St. Prex, Switzerland. The company employs over 6,000 people worldwide and serves millions of patients in over 100 countries.

Goddard School Holds Heartwarming Pre-K Graduation Ceremony

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The proud Pre-K graduates included Kiaan Kadakia, Zaila Ryans, Raymond Mound, Kaira Patel, Manuel Cougil, Jr., Auat Adnan, Arjun Gindal, Abir Malgaonkar, and Atharv Jhakur.

PARSIPPANY The Goddard School celebrated its Annual Pre-K Graduation on Friday, June 20, at its campus at 311 Smith Road. The ceremony marked a significant milestone for nine students who completed their Pre-K program and are preparing to begin Kindergarten in September. The graduates included Kiaan Kadakia, Zaila Ryans, Raymond Mound, Kaira Patel, Manuel Cougil, Jr., Auat Adnan, Arjun Gindal, Abir Malgaonkar, and Atharv Jhakur.

After the flag salute, the graduates performed a selection of songs, including “Moving Up to Kindergarten,” “Boom Chicka Boom,” “On My Way,” and “Big Dreams,” before receiving their diplomas.

Pre-K Graduation: “Reach for the Stars.” Graduates included Kiaan Kadakia, Zaila Ryans, Raymond Mound, Kaira Patel, Manuel Cougil, Jr., Auat Adnan, Arjun Gindal, Abir Malgaonkar, and Atharv Jhakur as they celebrated their milestone with pride and excitement for the journey ahead.
And the best part of the celebration. The celebration cake for the Class of 2025 Graduates.

The Goddard School in Parsippany is a private preschool offering early childhood education programs for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and pre-kindergarten students. Known for its play-based learning approach, the school blends academic instruction with social and emotional development, creating a well-rounded foundation for lifelong learning.

The curriculum incorporates various subjects, including math, science, literacy, and the arts, all designed to stimulate young minds and instill a passion for discovery. Enrichment programs in physical fitness, music, and foreign languages enhance the educational experience.

The school prides itself on maintaining a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children are encouraged to thrive. Experienced and caring teachers provide personalized support, helping each child grow independently.

Parents value the school’s strong emphasis on communication and collaboration, which fosters a true partnership between families and educators. Throughout the year, the Goddard School organizes various events, with the Pre-K graduation serving as a joyful highlight—celebrating each child’s achievements as they prepare for the next exciting chapter in their educational journey.

Pre-Kindergarten Ceremony Program
The graduates’ “Certificate of Achievement”

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus magazine, July 2024. Click here to read the magazine.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education Meeting – June 18, 2025

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Members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education Meeting – June 18, 2025.

New Jersey Lawmakers Target Sweepstakes Casinos With Proposed Ban

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New Jersey lawmakers are moving ahead with bills to shut down sweepstakes casinos operating in the state. This represents a significant change in how Garden State has handled this fast-growing gaming sector. The proposed laws could completely reshape online gaming for residents.

Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese introduced Assembly Bill 5447, which would ban platforms that use virtual currency and give out cash prizes and create fresh penalties for unlawful gambling businesses. The bill sat without action for nearly eight weeks before it was unanimously approved by the Assembly’s Tourism, Gaming, and Arts Committee. The Division of Consumer Affairs and Gaming Enforcement would oversee compliance.

The sweepstakes casino business has grown tremendously across America. The market made around $3.1 billion in 2022. Experts think it will jump 31% annually and hit $6.9 billion by 2025. These sites let people play casino games with fake money instead of real cash. This lets them operate in states where traditional online gambling remains illegal.

Players who cannot access regular online casinos in their areas often look for other options. Some check out cryptocasino platforms that work with cryptocurrency transactions. These provide a different path for online gaming fans who want varied experiences outside the regulated market.

Stephan Finkel is the director of legislative affairs for the Attorney General’s office. He says New Jersey’s constitution requires voters to approve gambling activities. Since sweepstakes casino gaming never got voter approval through a referendum, he thinks it should be unconstitutional. Finkel also pointed out that these platforms are built to look different from what they are, which makes them unauthorized gambling operations.

The proposed laws specifically target the business model that sweepstakes casinos depend on. These platforms usually run two games simultaneously. One involves paid virtual coins with no cash payout, and the other uses sweepstakes coins that players can turn in for real prizes. The New Jersey bill would stop this dual-currency system by banning the purchase of coins or tokens that only allow sweepstakes entry.

The bills would also prevent sweepstakes winners from being picked based on sports events or contests. This would target platforms that mix sweepstakes mechanics with sports betting elements. This rule aims to close what lawmakers see as regulatory gaps that let operators circumvent existing gambling laws.

Industry representatives have had different reactions to these legislative developments. The Social and Promotional Games Association supported earlier regulatory efforts. They said clear regulations would help create transparent and responsible social gaming experiences. However, switching from regulation to prohibition has created uncertainty for operators serving New Jersey customers.

Governor Murphy formed New Jersey’s Responsible Gambling Task Force. The group recommended supporting legislative efforts to ban unregulated gambling, including sweepstakes casinos. The task force examined both regulated and unregulated gaming in the state. Their findings could strengthen the ban legislation.

The regulatory crackdown goes beyond New Jersey. New York has also moved to ban social casino sweepstakes models. The State Senate passed legislation prohibiting online sweepstakes games using dual-currency systems. This year, multiple states, including Connecticut, Louisiana, and Montana, have introduced similar prohibition bills.

Eric Scheffler from the Sports Betting Alliance said sweepstakes gaming represents a legal trick that lets operators copy online casino experiences while avoiding licensing, regulation, and taxation structures that state policymakers set up. He noted that without regulation, these platforms do not have to follow the advertising restrictions and responsible gambling measures that traditional operators must.

The timing of New Jersey’s legislative action matters because the state leads in regulated online gambling. New Jersey was one of the first states to legalize online casino gaming and brought substantial tax revenue from its regulated iGaming market. The proposed sweepstakes ban could protect this established regulatory framework from unregulated competition.

A separate bill, Senate Bill 4109, takes a different approach. It proposes to regulate sweepstakes casinos as internet gaming operators, requiring licensure and taxation within the existing framework. This alternative shows the ongoing debate about banning or regulating these platforms.

New Jersey’s decision on these bills will probably affect what other states do about sweepstakes casinos. Some states have already killed similar bills this year, but others are still working on them. How this turns out will shape the sweepstakes industry’s future.

If Bill 5447 passes, sweepstakes companies might leave New Jersey like they did in other states with bans. New Jersey wants tight control over gambling in the state, no matter how companies try to package it.

Parsippany-based Nuvvon Reports a Major Breakthrough in Solid-State Battery Scalability

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Advanced Glovebox Technology at Nuvvon’s Parsippany Laboratory: This specialized Vigor glovebox system enables precise, contamination-free handling of materials crucial for developing solid-state pouch cells. With cutting-edge equipment like this, Nuvvon continues to drive innovation in non-flammable, compressionless lithium battery technology, paving the way for a more sustainable energy future.

PARSIPPANY — Nuvvon, a leader in next-generation energy storage, is excited to report a breakthrough in solid-state battery scalability.

This fall, Nuvvon will release its first samples of 1Ah and 5Ah solid-state rechargeable lithium-ion pouch cells.

“This is a real breakthrough moment for Nuvvon,” notes Jonathan Lex, Chief Operating Officer of Nuvvon Inc. “While we’ve always maintained that our technology is inherently scalable and compatible with existing lithium-ion manufacturing infrastructure, we focused first on advancing our materials science. They have validated our approach by successfully producing larger format cells, paving the way for faster commercialization.”
The scaling from 72mAh to 1Ah and 5Ah pouch cells demonstrates that Nuvvon’s technology is moving beyond laboratory-scale prototypes.

Key performance characteristics of Nuvvon’s SPE technology include:
• 2000+ cycle life (1C/1C); NMC811 cathode
• Wide operating temperature range of -20°C to +60°C (-4°F to 140°F)
• Completely solid composition – no liquid electrolyte in any part of cell
• Passed all common safety tests (e.g. nail, thermal runaway)
• Operational at atmospheric pressure (No stack pressure)
• Made in the USA

Full performance data is available upon request.
“Progress has accelerated beyond expectations since the expanded team moved into our new, larger facility,” explains Dr. Simon Madgwick, Nuvvon CEO. “We know our product is unique – a substantial compressionless cell – and now it is available at commercial grade and made entirely on the existing Li-ion process. It has been a lot of hard work, and with some ongoing testing to finish, we will be ready to take orders for pilot samples.”

Nuvvon will begin with a baseline product that potential partners can request to order to test and evaluate. Simultaneously, Nuvvon will develop fast charge/discharge and extremely high/low temperature variants tailored to customer-specific applications. 10- 20Ah cells will be available upon request.

To evaluate Nuvvon’s cells or to explore collaboration opportunities, contact Jonathan Lex at [email protected].

Letter to the Editor: Unsafe Working Conditions

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Dear Editor:

I guess the Mayor believes the staff at the Lake Hiawatha Library does not need or deserve to have air conditioning in the summer. What other reason would there be for ignoring that the A/C stopped working at the end of the cooling season last year? Eight months later, the building still has no working A/C unit. I wonder if Mayor Barberio would subject his wife, daughter, mom, or any other family member to such outrageous working conditions. I THINK NOT!

I am sure the brain trust at City Hall will try to come up with some utterly lame excuse why nothing was done to make provisions so the staff would not put their health at risk while in the building. I suspect the response will be that they were planning on building a new library, so they decided not to repair a problem that is a life safety issue. If anyone in City Hall thought they could have a new building constructed in eight months, they were kidding themselves, the staff, and the residents who use the Library.

So please, Mr. Mayor, explain the game plan. As I understand it, you had a plan to build a new Library since you yourself said the current one is beyond repair. Is it true you planned to build a new facility on land you thought was available, only to find out it is Green Acres Land and, by law, cannot be developed? If I am misinformed, please tell me where the new building was to be constructed and why that plan was never brought to fruition.

Time and again, we see grand-scale mismanagement coming from City Hall. Issues are only addressed if they benefit the Mayor’s longtime best friend, forever John Inglesino.

And while we are at it, can the DPW see if the second parking lot light across the street from the library has been repaired? The parking area had no security lighting for 17 months, until I called JCPL and asked why the lights were in disrepair. They told me it was a city issue, so I went back and forth between the two until we managed to get all the parties there simultaneously. One light fixture was placed in service, but the other light is still not working because the underground conduit has failed and the wire has been pinched, causing a short circuit. And yes, it was and is a city issue all along. If it were not for a nice employee at JCPL named Candy who went out of her way for me, the lights would still be out.

So, tell me, Mayor, how much longer do you plan on subjecting the staff to conditions you would not tolerate in City Hall for a minute? I am certain all the residents who use the Lake Hiawatha branch would love to hear your explanation. I cannot imagine what Parsippany would look like should you win another term. Now is the time for the voters of Parsippany to put party loyalty aside and vote for a candidate for mayor who will work for the city and not special interests.

Democratic candidate for Mayor Pulkit Desai and his ticket, Matt Kavanagh and Diya Patel, for city council, would be a breath of fresh air in City Hall. I will trust them to do a far superior job than Barberio and company would.

Richard Suarez

Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter Waives Adoption Fees for Adult Animals

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MORRIS COUNTY — In a heartwarming effort to find loving homes for more pets, Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter is waiving adoption fees for all adult animals beginning Friday, June 20 through Sunday, June 22. During this special weekend event, adopters can take home any eligible adult cat or dog at absolutely no cost.

“Adult pets often wait longer than kittens and puppies despite being wonderful companions,” explained Lorri Coppola, Executive Director of Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter. “Our goal with this promotion is to remove financial barriers and match these loving, animals with caring families.”

Each adoption includes:

  • Spay/neuter surgery
  • Age‑appropriate vaccinations
  • Microchipping

While the adoption fee is waived, the shelter will still conduct standard adoption screening to ensure each animal is matched with the right home.

“We have so many incredible adult pets—snuggle seekers, adventure buddies, and quiet couch companions—all ready to bring joy to your home,” added Coppola.

Adoption Hours:

  • Weekdays: 12 PM – 4 PM
  • Weekend days: 12 PM – 5 PM

Visit Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter at 194 Route 10West, East Hanover, NJ, or browse adoptable pets at www.njshelter.org. Walk‑in visitors are warmly welcomed.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education Appoints Dr. Karen Chase as Superintendent of Schools

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Dr. Karen Chase, newly appointed Superintendent of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township School District, will officially begin her role on October 1, 2025.

PARSIPPANY—The Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education announced that Dr. Karen Chase has been appointed the new Superintendent of Schools. With more than 25 years of experience in public education, Dr. Chase will officially assume her role on October 1, 2025.

Grounded in the belief that effective leadership is about building strong systems, investing in people, and placing students at the center of every decision, Dr. Chase holds degrees in English Education and Educational Psychology and earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership, Management, and Policy.

“Our selection process cast a wide net and, ultimately, we met with eight highly qualified candidates. We narrowed the field down to two impressive finalists before selecting Dr. Chase,” the Board of Education said. “We congratulate Dr. Chase on her appointment, and we are confident that her extensive experience, deep knowledge of curriculum, management skills, and love of education will both nurture and expand the quality of education throughout the district. She possesses a realistic vision, a clear sense of priorities, and a strong advocacy for high expectations. We look forward to partnering with her as we collectively address challenges and embrace opportunities to continue providing the high-quality education that the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township School District has come to expect.”

Dr. Karen Chase, a distinguished educator and visionary leader, prepares to begin her tenure as Superintendent of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Schools on October 1, 2025.

Dr. Chase began her career as a classroom teacher in the Bridgewater-Raritan School District, where she worked with students of all abilities across elementary, middle, and high school levels.

She served as a supervisor of instruction in the Montville Township School District, assistant superintendent in the School District of the Chathams, and, most recently, as superintendent in the Branchburg Township School District.

Dr. Chase earned a Bachelor’s degree in English Education from Kean University, a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Connecticut at Storrs, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, Management, and Policy from Seton Hall University.

Parsippany PD: No Record of Officer Questioning Driver About Immigration

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Parsippany Police Department is located at 3339 Route 46.

PARSIPPANY — At the June 17, 2025, Township Council meeting, individuals raised concerns regarding an alleged incident in which a driver may have been questioned about her immigration status during a traffic stop in our township.

The Parsippany Police Department takes such allegations very seriously. In accordance with our Standards of Operation and the New Jersey State Attorney General Guidelines, our Internal Affairs conducted a thorough investigation that included reviewing CCTV footage, GPS, body-worn camera footage, state law enforcement databases, and all other avenues available to validate this complaint.

Despite our efforts, the investigation did not yield any evidence that any such motor vehicle stop occurred within our jurisdiction by any officer in our department.

The Parsippany Police Department strictly adheres to all guidelines issued by the State of New Jersey and the Office of the Attorney General, including those related to the treatment of immigrants and officer conduct during motor vehicle stops.

We remain committed to transparency, accountability, and fair treatment of all individuals, regardless of immigration status.

Any complaints regarding the Parsippany Police Department, please call our non-emergency number at (973) 263-4300 or visit www.parpolice.com

An Interview with AJ Wyman on his Upcoming Memoir, The Grace to Carry On

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Lindsey, Emma, and AJ Wyman standing together at a concert.

PARSIPPANY — When cancer steals, it almost always steals mercilessly. It can be a thief of physical liberty, a thief of mental acuity at any age, and, although often going unrecognized, it can be a callous thief of the patient’s caregiver—whose health may be compromised in the pursuit of caring for the ones they love.

In a heart-rending yet emotionally dynamic debut, AJ Wyman delivers a novel he never expected to write. For a book that started as a “therapeutic exercise” to deal with the repercussions of his infant daughter’s cancer diagnosis, Wyman has transmuted a collection of once-scattered musings into an evocative, full-length piece, delving into poignant themes of grief, mental turmoil, and turbulent recovery.

It all started a little over a decade ago when a couple, AJ and Lindsey Wyman, discovered that no parent ever wants to hear: Emma Marie, their daughter of barely over seven months, had been diagnosed with an aggressive undifferentiated sarcoma. The tumor, which had been spreading malignantly throughout her tiny body, was relentless—stopping her heart only thirty seconds into her first chemotherapy session and causing the young infant to go into a series of successive seizures and experience a brain-altering stroke before she had even turned one.

AJ Wyman and his daughter, Emma, as a newborn.

AJ and Lindsey, understandably, had no idea how their daughter would fare with her cancer treatment in the coming months. The life they had fought so hard to give Emma was now placed in immediate jeopardy, and the heat of that crossfire was too intense for AJ Wyman to bear.

“I didn’t initially cope well with everything,” Wyman tells the Focus. “My wife, Lindsey, she’s a bit more methodical. She talks things out. But during the experience, I was guarded, closed off, clammed up, and angry. So when I eventually had downtime, I wasn’t being healthy with it.”

As detailed in The Grace to Carry On, Wyman’s debut novel, forthcoming on September 1st, his bad habits slowly progressed into a seemingly inescapable substance addiction. For Wyman, after months of struggling with near-fatal drug abuse, being caught in the act was the only way out. “The novel’s a cautionary tale, really,” Wyman reveals. “You still have to care for yourself even when caring for others.”

Now, a decade removed from the experience and clean, Wyman has been able to reflect on his feelings more profoundly. While Emma has been cancer-free since February of 2016, it has taken AJ Wyman a little longer to process and unpack the agitation that had built up inside of him during that fateful summer. His memoir, thus, is the culmination of his newfound angle on his cancer-parent experience—Wyman’s way of releasing pent-up feelings and advising others on how not to repeat his mistakes.

“Writing this novel took a huge weight off my shoulders,” Wyman tells the Parsippany Focus. “I got a lot out there that I had never gotten out before, and it felt like a big sigh of relief.”

The roughly 85,000-word project, which is entirely written from Wyman’s perspective, is just as much a recounting of his daughter’s cancer experience as it is a vulnerable tale of a father’s foggy, disoriented lens. Wyman doesn’t shy away from the taboo—in fact, he embraces it, or rather, lets you feel it as unfiltered as he did. It’s raw, honest, and “intentionally open.”

“The goal is to get [the novel] in the hands of someone who could use it—like a social worker, oncologist, caregiver, or even a cancer patient,” Wyman elaborates. “I want to show the importance of communication, open dialogues, and not letting things get bottled up. In other words: ‘This is what happened to us. Don’t let it happen to you.’”

Although the experience has left its indelible marks—such as routine check-up visits for Emma to monitor her cancer remission status and addiction rehabilitation on AJ’s part—Wyman feels “lucky to be around and relatively unscathed.” Now, Emma’s Angels, a makeshift community Facebook group that formed around Emma following her life-threatening chemotherapy treatment, serves as a vessel to inform supporters about other families’ journeys with cancer.

“Lindsey and I are both very open to talking to those going through similar journeys, whether it be addiction, cancer, or any other hardships,” Wyman adds. Understanding the weight a cancer diagnosis has for everyone in the family, the couple is “always happy to help individuals in need.”

For more information regarding The Grace to Carry On, click the attached link to the publisher’s (Open Books) page. Once the book is launched on September 1st, it will be available online on Amazon and Barnes & Noble’s websites. You can pre-order The Grace to Carry On by scanning the QR code on the cover.

Video: Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – June 11, 2025

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Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – June 11, 2025.

Video: Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – June 17, 2025

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Newcomers Matthew McGrath and Judy Hernandez join returning Council mamber Paul Carifi, Jr.

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – June 17, 2025.

Click here to download the agenda.

Parsippany’s Evolving Entertainment Scene: From Local Theaters to Digital Platforms

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Parsippany-Troy Hills, a thriving township in New Jersey, has witnessed a striking shift in its entertainment culture over the decades. From the days of community-centric movie theaters and live shows to a present driven by digital streaming and online engagement, the landscape has experienced remarkable transformation. This article delves into each element of that evolution—laying out the statistics, names, and real-world implications of how Parsippany’s residents have navigated from analog charm to digital dynamism.

The Golden Era of Parsippany’s Local Theaters

For much of the 20th century, Parsippany’s social life orbited around its neighborhood theaters. One of the most beloved was the Parsippany Playhouse, a venue that seated over 150 and frequently hosted plays, recitals, and community productions. By the late 1980s, the town had three operational movie theaters within a ten-mile radius, with a collective seating capacity of 1,100. These venues were not just entertainment hubs—they were cultural centers, where families, students, and older residents gathered week after week.

Transition to Multiplexes and Regional Cinemas

As the 1990s approached, multiplexes in surrounding areas like Rockaway and East Hanover began to draw Parsippany residents. AMC Rockaway 16 opened in 1999, bringing in digital projection and surround sound, outclassing local theaters in both scale and tech. It featured 3,400 total seats and quickly became the go-to option for film premieres. By 2005, only one small-screen theater remained operational within Parsippany itself, prompting many to lament the disappearance of locally-owned cinema.

The Streaming Boom’s Impact on Viewing Habits

Netflix entered the scene in Parsippany households around 2009, and within five years, over 72% of homes with broadband had at least one streaming subscription. Hulu, Prime Video, and Disney+ followed, making in-home viewing the primary form of cinematic entertainment. A 2022 township survey found that 84% of adults under 40 in Parsippany now prefer watching new movie releases at home rather than in a theater, citing convenience and cost. This shift marks a definitive departure from the collective experience of moviegoing.

The Rise of Mobile Entertainment and App Integration

The 2010s ushered in an era where content consumption became 24/7. Parsippany residents averaged 3.7 hours of mobile screen time per day in 2023, up from just 1.9 hours a decade prior. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram became entertainment staples. More than 60% of teens in Parsippany report using mobile apps as their primary source for watching videos, overtaking TV by 2019. This explosion in mobile-based content reshaped not just what people watched, but how and when they consumed it.

Online Gaming and Virtual Socialization

Online gaming is another realm that has reshaped Parsippany’s entertainment landscape. Between 2018 and 2024, the number of households with at least one online gamer rose by 47%. Platforms like Xbox Live and PlayStation Network have turned gaming into a social activity. Games like Fortnite, Call of Duty, and Minecraft are now common topics among Parsippany youth, replacing conversations about sports or movies. A local 2023 high school poll showed 76% of students play multiplayer games weekly, illustrating just how embedded gaming has become.

The Integration of Digital Sports Betting

With the legalization of online sports betting in New Jersey in 2018, Parsippany saw an immediate uptick in participation. By 2024, more than 11% of adult residents placed bets online during major events like the Super Bowl and March Madness. As digital platforms gain popularity, many residents are exploring online entertainment options. For those interested in sports betting, utilizing a BetMGM bonus code can enhance the experience by offering promotional benefits to new users. Sports viewership increased by 38% locally during 2023, heavily influenced by interactive betting apps and personalized odds notifications.

Social Media’s Dominance in Daily Leisure

From Facebook groups to trending TikTok clips, social media is no longer a supplementary tool—it is central to Parsippany’s leisure. According to a township analytics report, over 89% of adults in Parsippany use at least two social platforms daily. Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts have become primary forms of entertainment for users under 35. Residents also credit platforms like Reddit and Discord for fostering hyperlocal communities centered around niche hobbies, television shows, and tech trends.

Virtual Events and Local Content Creators

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit 2020, Parsippany’s local arts community quickly adapted by hosting digital events. The Parsippany Arts Council saw over 5,000 virtual attendees across eight online showcases in 2021. Musicians, podcasters, and YouTubers emerged from the area with increasing digital clout. One example is Parsippany native Jason Liu, whose YouTube tech review channel surpassed 300,000 subscribers by late 2023. These local creators are shaping a new type of grassroots entertainment that blends accessibility with homegrown flair.

The Role of Subscription Services in Daily Routines

Over 67% of Parsippany households now pay for at least three entertainment subscriptions. Bundled packages like Hulu + Disney+ + ESPN+ have become the norm, offering content across genres from children’s programming to international sports. Spotify Premium and Apple Music are also prevalent, with township residents streaming an average of 14.5 hours of music weekly. This on-demand ecosystem has allowed residents to tailor their daily routines around personalized content without waiting for scheduled programming.

Economic and Cultural Implications

The evolution from local theaters to digital platforms has not come without consequences. The closure of community venues led to a 12% drop in part-time employment in the local arts sector between 2000 and 2020. At the same time, residents have gained access to global cinema, multilingual content, and real-time sports from international leagues. While this global integration expands cultural horizons, it also creates tension with preserving Parsippany’s local identity, especially for older residents accustomed to community-focused entertainment.

What the Future Holds for Parsippany Entertainment

Looking ahead, Parsippany appears poised for a hybrid entertainment future—one where community events merge with digital interactivity. Concepts like augmented reality art walks, drive-in movie reinventions, and mobile-based local scavenger hunts are being discussed by local officials and entrepreneurs. The township library is even exploring a VR program for seniors. This blend of innovation and accessibility could offer the next chapter in Parsippany’s dynamic entertainment evolution—one that respects the past while embracing the future.

This comprehensive look at Parsippany-Troy Hills’ entertainment evolution underscores a deeper narrative—one of adaptation, modernization, and communal reinvention. As digital platforms continue to grow, so too does the town’s appetite for progressive, tech-infused cultural experiences

Central Middle School Moving Up Ceremony

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PARSIPPANY — Central Middle School Moving Up Ceremony

Brooklawn Middle School Moving Up

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PARSIPPANY — Brooklawn Middle School Moving Up.

Parsippany High School’s Redstock Festival Unites Community with Fun and Purpose

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Parsippany High School's Key Club always brings family-friendly fun to Redstock with interactive games and activities that engage children and adults alike.

PARSIPPANY — Redstock is Parsippany High School’s annual community festival, bringing families, students, and local businesses together for a day of fun, connection, and school spirit. The event features various activities in the school’s parking lot, including sports, games, food vendors, temporary tattoos, face painting, and arts and crafts.

Three Parsippany High School alumni—now owners of Integrated Fitness—returned to support this year’s Redstock Festival, celebrating community spirit and giving back to their alma mater.

Each year, Redstock highlights the creativity and energy of student-run clubs through interactive booths. It also gives local businesses and organizations a platform to showcase their products and services in a festive vendor area. The event continues to grow in popularity, drawing residents from all walks of life.

More than just a celebration, Redstock fosters community unity by creating an inclusive space where neighbors can come together to support one another and build lasting connections.

Parsippany High School’s Key Club always brings family-friendly fun to Redstock with interactive games and activities that engage children and adults alike.
Lakeland Youth Symphony brought their musical talent to this year’s Redstock Festival, delighting attendees and showcasing the power of youth performance in our community celebration.
Parsippany High School’s robotics team, RedBot 12116, showcased their engineering skills at this year’s Redstock Festival, engaging attendees with hands-on demonstrations and interactive robotics displays.
“Bubbles,” the beloved mascot of The Learning Experience in Parsippany, made a special appearance at this year’s Redstock Festival—bringing smiles, high-fives, and plenty of photo ops for children and families alike.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Fire District 5 participated in this year’s Redstock Festival, engaging with the community and showcasing its fire safety equipment. Families and children had the opportunity to meet local firefighters, explore fire trucks, and learn important fire prevention tips. The department’s presence highlighted its ongoing commitment to community outreach and public education.
Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance Squad also joined this year’s Redstock Festival, offering families a chance to tour their ambulance and meet the dedicated EMTs who serve the community. Visitors learned about emergency medical services, received safety information, and engaged in hands-on demonstrations. Their participation increased the event’s focus on education, safety, and community connection.
School of Rock brought high-energy performances to this year’s Redstock Festival, entertaining the crowd with live music. Their set featured classic rock favorites and showcased the skills students have developed through the program. The performance added a vibrant and rhythmic element to the day, drawing cheers and applause from attendees of all ages.
The Parsippany Police Department participated in this year’s Redstock Festival, engaging with residents and promoting public safety in a fun and approachable setting.

Arrests Made in Connection with Morristown Homicide Investigation

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File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, New Jersey Transit Police Chief Christopher Trucillo, and Morristown Bureau of Police Chief Darnell Richardson confirmed the arrest of Enrique “Flaco” Vega, 33, and Cassandra West, 31, in connection with a June 13, homicide investigation in Morristown. Both Vega and West are homeless and known to frequent Morris County.

At approximately 9:14 a.m. on Friday, June 13, paramedics and Morristown Police responded to a report of an unresponsive individual found on Patriots Path, south of Cory Road near the railroad tracks in the vicinity of the Morristown substation. On arrival, they located a deceased man, later identified as Stanley M. Robinson, 65, of Dover. The victim was discovered on NJ TRANSIT property.

It is alleged that Vega and West were present during a physical dispute between Robinson and another individual, R.E., in the early-morning hours of June 13. It is alleged that after Robinson was severely injured, Vega and West did not seek medical assistance for the victim.

A postmortem examination by the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office revealed the cause of Robinson’s death to be blunt force trauma to the victim’s head, and the manner of death to be homicide.

At some point after leaving the area of the dispute, Vega and West went to the Red Carpet Inn in Hanover. It is alleged that on Saturday, June 14, Vega stole $2,500 from the cash register in the business office, while an employee had stepped away. It is further alleged that West acted as a lookout for the burglary and theft.

It is further alleged that on Saturday, June 14, Vega and West discovered R.E. deceased in an unoccupied residence on Ridgedale Avenue in Hanover. West is alleged to have tampered with this scene by discarding an empty heroin fold she located near R.E.’s body.

Police found R.E. deceased in the residence on the afternoon of Monday, June 16. Final results of the postmortem examination conducted by the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office are pending. There was no noted trauma to the deceased.

On Monday, June 16, West and Vega were apprehended at the Broad Street rail station in Newark, and transported to the Morristown Police Department.

On June 17, Vega and West were charged by complaint-warrant in connection with these incidents. With respect to the Morristown incident, Vega and West have been charged with Endangering an Injured Victim (a crime of the third degree) and Defiant Trespass (a petty disorderly persons offense). With respect to the incident at the Red Carpet Inn in Hanover, Vega has been charged with Conspiracy to Commit Burglary (a crime of the third degree), Burglary (a crime of the third degree), Theft (a crime of the third degree); and West has been charged with Conspiracy to Commit Burglary (a crime of the third degree) and Conspiracy to Commit Theft (a crime of the third degree).

With respect to the incident at Ridgedale Avenue in Hanover, Vega and West have been charged with Criminal Trespass (a disorderly persons offense) and West has been charged with Tampering with Evidence (a crime of the fourth degree).

Vega has been remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing. West remains in custody pending a detention hearing.

The investigation into the death of Stanley Robinson remains ongoing.

Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said, “Many thanks to our law enforcement agencies participating in this investigation – the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, Morristown Bureau of Police, NJ Transit Police, Hanover Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit and Special Operations Division – for their vital contributions to this investigation and which remains ongoing.”

New Jersey Transit Police Chief Christopher Trucillo, “The New Jersey Transit Police Department takes pride in working with local, state, and federal partners to ensure the safety and security of its riders and the public. We were pleased to participate in this multi-jurisdictional investigation, which resulted in the suspects’ apprehension.”

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at (973) 285-6200 or the Morristown Police Department at (973) 538-2200.

Editor’s Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Parsippany Student Honors Local Veterans Through Banner Project

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As part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project, Sanjana Medapati is honoring Parsippany veterans with personalized banners and patriotic displays, celebrating their service and sacrifice for our nation.

PARSIPPANY — Sanjana Medapati, a dedicated senior at The Academy for Mathematics, Science & Engineering, is turning her admiration for our nation’s service members into a heartfelt community initiative. Inspired by her brother attending the U.S. Military Academy, Sanjana has developed a deep respect for the commitment and sacrifices made by those in uniform.

As part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project, Sanjana is leading an effort to honor local veterans by creating and displaying banners celebrating their service. The banners will proudly feature each veteran’s name, branch of service, and years of duty as a lasting tribute to the brave individuals who have defended our country.

“These banners are a way to recognize the incredible sacrifices veterans have made,” said Sanjana. “It’s important that we, as a community, never forget their contributions and continue to honor their legacy.”

Sanjana is currently seeking submissions from the community. If you have a veteran in your family or know someone from Parsippany who deserves recognition, you can complete the form by clicking here.

“By sharing their stories, we can ensure that their dedication is remembered by all who see these banners,” she added.

Sanjana extends her gratitude to everyone supporting this initiative and invites residents to join her in showing appreciation for our veterans. With the community’s help, this project aims to provide public, meaningful recognition to those who have served.

For more information or to submit a veteran for recognition, click here to complete the form.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Primary Election Results – 2025

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Parsippany Municipal Building located at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard

PARSIPPANY — Voters in Parsippany-Troy Hills cast their ballots in the 2025 primary election to nominate candidates for two open seats on the Township Council. In a competitive race, Democratic candidates emerged with the highest vote totals, setting the stage for the general election in November.

Democratic Candidates – Top Vote-Getters:

  • Matt Kavanagh – 3,290 votes
  • Diya Patel – 3,255 votes

Republican Candidates:

  • Frank Neglia – 2,989 votes
  • Jigar Shah – 2,451 votes
  • John Bielen – 2,441 votes
  • Kaushik (Casey) Parikh – 2,233 votes

The top two candidates from each party will advance to the general election in November. Democrats Kavanagh and Patel will face Republicans Neglia and Shah.

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