PARSIPPANY — On September 22, 2024, members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks volunteered at the annual Vet Fest, assisting with setup and presenting a donation of $4,000 to Operation Chill Out, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping homeless veterans with housing and providing winter clothing.
Home Blog
Morris County Vocational School District Art Exhibition at Lakeland Hills Family YMCA
MORRIS COUNTY – The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is hosting the grand opening of its new art gallery, designed to foster community relationships by creating a space for cultural exchange, dialogue, and collaboration among diverse members of the community.
The public is invited to an evening of art, culture, and community as Lakeland Hills YMCA unveils its inaugural exhibition featuring works from the design students of the Morris County Vocational School District on Wednesday, October 16, at 6:00 p.m. The YMCA is located at 100 Fanny Road in Mountain Lakes, at the intersection of Mountain Lakes, Parsippany, and Boonton. RSVPs are welcome by emailing Kelly Horvath at kellyh@lhymca.com or calling 973-507-7016.
This is an opportunity to meet the young design artists of Morris County Vocational-Technical High School located in Denville. In June, many of these artists painted a mural on an outdoor storage container used by the Y’s Summer Camp, transforming it into a colorful and eye-catching display.
Alejandro Martinez, Lakeland Hills’ President and CEO, stated, “If you are wondering about the purpose of an art gallery in a nonprofit organization and health and wellness facility, I’m happy to explain. It provides a space for community members to engage with visual arts, enriches the cultural landscape, and fosters a greater art appreciation. This will lead to increased community involvement and support for our mission.”
Martinez continued, “Our art gallery will host educational programs, workshops, and lectures, enhancing the educational offerings for our entire community. We will support local artists, organizations, and other nonprofits. These programs will cater to all age groups and provide learning opportunities in art history, appreciation, and creation. The only limit is one’s imagination!”
Lakeland Hills YMCA will rotate its art exhibitions quarterly and ask the community to nominate future works. Upcoming installations include area schools, senior art, art councils, organizations, art therapy students, and more. The gallery is not limited to specific types or methods.
Just as the artists and their families are invited to the grand opening on Wednesday, October 16, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., so is the public. Refreshments will be served.
Rosemary Linder Day, the YMCA’s Vice President of Marketing and Membership, remarked, “We are creating a welcoming environment and a gathering place for the community. It demonstrates a commitment to cultural and artistic values. Art is a powerful medium for raising awareness about social issues, highlighting important causes, and encouraging dialogue and action within the community.”
About Lakeland Hills Family YMCA
Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is dedicated to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our programs and services are designed to promote overall well-being and support individuals and families in achieving their fullest potential. No one serves the community as powerfully as the Y does every day.
JLL Brokers Multi-Million Dollar Deal for Parsippany’s Latest Logistics Hub
PARSIPPANY — Link Logistics recently acquired the site of a vacant office building at Two Hilton Court in Parsippany, which is set to be redeveloped into a 123,000-square-foot warehouse. The property, previously occupied by Daiichi Sankyo, remained under lease until December 2022 despite the company relocating in 2016. Onyx Equities purchased the site in 2020, and it is now in the final stages of demolition, with the debris being cleared to make way for the new warehouse.
JLL’s brokerage team, representing the seller, handled the sale of the 10.41-acre property located just off Route 10, near Interstates 80 and 287. The location, within an economic development district in Morris County, attracted interest from the Blackstone affiliate due to its accessibility and prime location.
The transaction was led by JLL senior managing directors Marc Duval and Jose Cruz, along with Managing Director Jordan Avanzato and directors Nicholas Stefans and Jason Lundy, on behalf of 2 Hilton Court LLC.
“The industrial market in northern New Jersey has performed well despite challenges in recent years, and locations offering accessibility and labor remain top priorities for developers,” said Duval.
The sale comes four years after a joint venture, led by Onyx Equities, acquired the site from Mack-Cali Realty Corp as part of a larger 10-building, 1.5 million-square-foot office portfolio. The site, currently home to a vacant 186,020-square-foot office building, offers proximity to major highways and is within 60 miles of three international airports.
JLL noted during a previous offering that the seller was seeking amended site plan approval to redevelop the property as an industrial building, a key factor in the deal’s success, according to Avanzato.
Link Logistics is a major player in the industrial real estate sector, specializing in last-mile logistics properties throughout the United States. Founded by Blackstone in 2019, the company now manages a portfolio that spans over 533 million square feet of logistics space, including warehouses and business parks. They serve a wide range of customers, from e-commerce giants to local businesses, with a focus on providing strategically located facilities for efficient distribution.
One of the core aspects of Link Logistics’ operations is its focus on sustainability and using data-driven insights to optimize the supply chain. Their commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices has been a significant part of their growth strategy. They also emphasize creating spaces that cater to modern logistical needs, helping their customers move goods quickly and efficiently across key U.S. markets.
The company has over 1,200 employees and operates out of 50 offices across the U.S., continuing to expand its footprint in high-growth areas like Parsippany, where they have been involved in recent acquisitions and redevelopments.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting Scheduled for October 8
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council has scheduled a meeting for Tuesday, October 8, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will occur in the Council Chambers at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard within the Parsippany Municipal Building.
Formal action may or may not be taken.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for the meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request an auxiliary aid.
Click here to download the agenda.
Click here for the 2024 calendar.
Mayor James Barberio
Council President Paul Carifi, Jr.
Council Vice President Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella
Councilman Matt McGrath
Councilwoman Judy Hernandez
Owner of Plato’s Closet in Roxbury Sentenced for Invasion of Privacy and Possession of Child Pornography
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Investigations Robert McNally, and Chief Dean Adone of the Roxbury Township Police Department confirmed the sentencing of Nicholas Zirpoli, 36, of Lincoln Park. Zirpoli is the owner and operator of Plato’s Closet, a clothing retail store in Roxbury Township.
On May 13, 2024, Zirpoli pled guilty to ten counts of third-degree Invasion of Privacy and one count of third-degree Possession of Child Pornography. On October 4, 2024, the Honorable Stephen J. Taylor, P.J.S.C., imposed a sentence of three years of probation with 364 days in the Morris County Correctional Facility. Zirpoli is not to have any contact with the victims or their families and continue to undergo psychotherapy.
During the period of late 2022 to the beginning of 2023, Zirpoli used a device to video record juvenile and adult employees, 11 in total, utilizing the restroom at Plato’s Closet at separate times.
Prosecutor Carroll recognizes the Roxbury Township Police Department and Morris County Prosecutor’s Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, who worked jointly on this investigation.
Our Lady of Mercy Hosts Eldercare Seminar Series: Navigating Assisted Living and Dementia Care
MORRIS COUNTY — The Our Lady of Mercy Health Ministry is hosting the first of a three-part Eldercare Seminar Series on Thursday, October 10th, at 7:00 p.m. at the Parish Center. The seminar, titled “When is Assisted Living or Nursing Care Appropriate for My Loved Ones?” will provide essential guidance on managing the challenges of aging and recognizing when to consider additional care options for loved ones.
Kim Klapper of Graceful Aging Services will lead a discussion on strategies for aging with dignity and grace.
Barbara Freda of Genesis Healthcare will focus on identifying signs of dementia and determining the appropriate time to seek further assistance, particularly for individuals living with Alzheimer’s. Both experts will provide valuable information and resources to help seniors and caregivers make informed eldercare decisions.
The series will continue with additional sessions on November 14th and January 9th, addressing other important aspects of eldercare. Whether you’re a senior exploring your rights and options or a caregiver seeking advice, these seminars are designed to equip you with the knowledge needed to plan confidently for the future.
RSVP is encouraged. To reserve your spot, email office@ourladyofmercyparish or call Kathy at (973).428-4996.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights from professionals and prepare for future eldercare needs.
Our Lady of Mercy is located at 90 Whippany Road, Whippany.
Parsippany Actor Nick Ferro Hosted Successful Fundraiser at Applebee’s, Prepares for IMTA Convention
PARSIPPANY — Nick Ferro, a rising young actor from Parsippany, along with his mother, Denise Ferro, hosted a highly successful Flapjack Fundraiser at Applebee’s this past Sunday, October 6, as they personally served breakfast to the many community members who came out in support of Nick’s acting journey. The fundraiser was held to help fund Nick’s participation in the prestigious International Modeling and Talent Association (IMTA) convention in Los Angeles in January 2025.
With the help of his mother, Nick served up pancakes, sausage, eggs, and beverages to the large crowd of supporters who gathered for the event. The community showed up in full force, and the overwhelming turnout ensured that Nick would be well-supported on his journey to IMTA, where he would have the opportunity to showcase his talent in front of top industry professionals.
“Having my mom by my side, serving breakfast to everyone who came out to support me, made the day even more special,” Nick shared. “We’re both incredibly grateful for the support from the community.”
Nick Ferro’s Journey and IMTA Preparation
Nick’s passion for acting began at the age of eight when he attended classes at Barbizon, a well-known modeling and acting school. Despite a brief pause in his acting endeavors, Nick refocused on his career after graduating from the County College of Morris (CCM). His professional training at LaGuardia Acting School under Joshua Nelson further honed his skills, leading to his first film role in Focus in November 2023, where he played Matt, a supporting character.
Now, with the IMTA convention in sight, Nick is ready to take his career to the next level. The funds raised at Applebee’s will help cover his expenses as he prepares to present his acting talent to agents, casting directors, and managers at the IMTA event.
The success of the fundraiser, along with Nick and Denise Ferro’s hands-on involvement, demonstrates the deep connection between the Ferro family and the Parsippany community, who are all rooting for Nick’s success.
Parsippany Firefighters will Depart for North Carolina to Aid in Hurricane Helene Relief, Donations Needed
PARSIPPANY — Firefighters from Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire District 5-Station 2 are preparing to leave at the end of this week for North Carolina to assist with relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Helene. These brave first responders are stepping up to support communities impacted by the storm and are seeking donations to bring with them.
Donations can be dropped off at Station 2, located at 200 South Beverwyck Road from Monday to Friday this week.
Items needed include:
- Water
- Non-perishable food
- Formula
- Diapers
The community is encouraged to contribute what they can to support both the firefighters and the families affected by Hurricane Helene. All donations are greatly appreciated, and the town sends its prayers to these dedicated men as they embark on this important mission.
Flu Shot: Essential Protection for People with Chronic Conditions Like HIV
MORRIS COUNTY — People with chronic conditions, such as HIV, are at higher risk for severe flu-related complications and should get a flu shot annually to help prevent serious illness, hospitalizations, and deaths. This is especially important for those with HIV who are not on antiretroviral therapy (ART), as untreated HIV weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections and certain cancers.
The flu shot offers the best protection against flu each season. People with HIV face an increased risk of not only contracting the flu but also developing other bacterial or viral infections, including pneumonia. With flu activity peaking in winter, the CDC recommends getting vaccinated early in the fall, ideally by the end of October, for maximum protection.
While it’s impossible to eliminate all flu risks, there are effective steps to reduce the chances of illness and flu-related complications:
- Get a Flu Shot: It’s never too late to get vaccinated, but early in flu season is best. High-risk groups, including people with HIV, should opt for the injectable flu shot, as the nasal spray is not recommended. Flu shots are widely available at no cost in locations such as doctors’ offices, clinics, pharmacies, and workplaces.
- Take Preventative Steps: Simple actions like frequent hand washing, avoiding face-touching, and staying away from sick individuals can help stop the spread of the flu. If you feel unwell, stay home to avoid infecting others.
- Consult Your HIV Care Provider if Symptoms Arise: If you think you have the flu or have been exposed to the virus, contact your HIV care provider immediately. Flu antivirals, when started early, can reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent complications. These medications are safe to take with HIV treatments, but always inform your provider about your current HIV medications to avoid potential interactions.
In addition to the flu shot, the CDC advises people with HIV to stay up to date with other vaccines, including COVID-19, Hepatitis A and B, HPV, Meningococcal, Pneumococcal, Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap), and Zoster (shingles). Discuss your vaccine needs with your HIV care provider to ensure you’re fully protected.
For more information or questions about HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, contact the New Jersey AIDS/HIV/STD Hotline, available 24/7, for free and confidential help. Healthcare providers can connect you with free sexual health services in New Jersey: 1-800-624-2377 or chat online.
Parsippany Police to Host Coffee with a Cop Event on October 10
PARSIPPANY — Residents of Parsippany will have the opportunity to engage with their local police department at the upcoming Coffee with a Cop event, scheduled for Thursday, October 10, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon. The event will take place at Valley Bank, located at 800 Route 46 West (Arlington Plaza).
Organized in partnership with Valley Bank, this event encourages community members to meet Parsippany police officers in a relaxed, informal setting. The goal is to provide an open forum where residents can discuss issues that are important to them, their families, and the broader community. Whether the topics involve public safety, neighborhood concerns, or simply getting to know the officers who serve the area, Coffee with a Cop provides an accessible environment for open dialogue.
RSVPs are required for the event. Residents interested in attending can confirm their participation by contacting Ildiko Peluso at (973) 263-0601 or via email at ipeluso@valley.com.
This national initiative is part of a broader effort to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Coffee with a Cop offers a unique opportunity to build relationships and foster understanding between officers and the public in a casual, conversational environment.
The Parsippany Police Department encourages all community members to attend, share their thoughts, and build stronger connections with their local law enforcement team.
4th Annual FUNdRAISER Breaks Record, Supporting Parsippany Families in Need
PARSIPPANY — The 4th Annual FUNdRAISER for the Parsippany Food Pantry marked a milestone for the community-driven initiative. This year’s fundraiser, spearheaded by nine-year-old Vivan Bhattacharya, raised a record $1,800, which was officially handed over to Michele Picone, Director of Health and Human Services at the Parsippany Food Pantry. Picone, clearly impressed by the young organizers’ efforts, stated, “This is a record,” underscoring the success of this year’s event.
For four consecutive years, Vivan has taken the lead in organizing the FUNdRAISER, demonstrating an impressive commitment to supporting the community’s most vulnerable. The initiative has gained momentum each year, with growing participation from local children and support from key community leaders like Mayor James R. Barberio and Councilman Frank Neglia. Both officials attended the event and encouraged the young volunteers, acknowledging the importance of cultivating a spirit of community service in Parsippany’s youngest generation.
One of the standout features of the fundraiser was the conversion of children’s artwork into greeting cards, which were sold to raise funds. This summer, kids from Parsippany, Hanover, and Hillsborough contributed their artistic talents and volunteered their time to support the cause. The two main events—one hosted in Vivan’s front yard and another at the Farmers Market in Veterans Park—served as the focal points for the campaign.
Selling the cards and communicating the mission of the fundraiser to strangers at the Farmers Market was no small feat for the young volunteers. However, their passion and resourcefulness were evident as they successfully attracted donations and explained the importance of supporting the Parsippany Food Pantry.
This year’s group of artists and volunteers included Joey Carson, Veer Sethi, Ryan and Kaitlyn Cooper, Vihaan Mishra, Avi and Arya Lad, Anhik Jena, Sathvikha and Sanjhana Bharanidharan, Amyra Rai, Ashneel and Eishan Kumar, Aishani Saha, Riana Elawadhi, Connor Kaczorowski, Ashmi Mazumder, Prashan Sreehariharan, Shrey Kumar, Kavanveer Singh, Vihaan Kushwaha, and Vivan Bhattacharya.
The event, which began as a fun, small-scale activity during the COVID-19 pandemic, has now become an annual highlight in the community, growing in size and impact each year. Vivan and the other children involved have demonstrated that age is no barrier to making a difference, especially with the support of generous Parsippany residents, as well as friends and family across the country. Their combined efforts are making a tangible impact on local families in need, with this year’s record-breaking donation serving as a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Letter to the Editor: Answer to Mr. Valenzano
Dear Editor:
Mr. Valenzano’s response to my letter titled “Mayor Barberio’s The Sky is Not Falling” would have you believe there is only one opinion as to whether suburban corporate campuses are a thing of the past. While I do not doubt that Professor Hughes who seems very well qualified and who is quoted in the article may believe he is correct in his beliefs, I am confident you could find other equally qualified professors and Real Estate professionals who would disagree with his theory.
As someone who was a Real Estate agent for several years what I found was that real estate markets tend to be cyclical. The fact is that many companies are now requiring their staff to attend work in person five days a week as was the norm prior to COVID-19. The impact of this is unknown at this moment, but it could very well make the area of Commercial Office buildings see a full-blown renaissance. That is why entering into extremely long-term PILOT programs as the township has recently done that depend heavily on warehouse industries is a risky venture. Locking yourself into one long-term real estate option is kind of like the old saying “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket”.
I again urge the city administration to press on with new invigorated methods to induce companies to establish their presence in Parsippany. We can be better than just a glorified truck stop along the major highways that run in and out of Parsippany. Let us see some of the Parsippany Pride we were once famous for and reach for better options for our town.
Richard Suarez
Letter to the Editor: Candidates Strickland, Sackett, and Ravitz Propose Sustainable Solutions to Address Flooding
Dear Editor,
A recent study ranked Morris County as one of the 15% most flood-prone counties in the nation. This is no surprise to some in Parsippany living in flood-prone areas and suffering through continued damage to homes and businesses. The problems have become persistent because of extreme weather events due to changing climate and development.
In this upcoming election commissioner candidates Strickland, Sackett, and Ravitz have proposed to address the issue head-on by helping mitigate the problem with smart and sustainable development.
Why smart and sustainable development? Because development is necessary for our economy. Growth and development that aims to meet the needs of the county without compromising the ability of future generations is essential. The candidates’ approach is centered on sustainable infrastructure, proactive flood mitigation, and collaboration with local, state, and federal agencies.
Strickland, Sackett, and Ravitz recognize that Morris County’s aging infrastructure plays a significant role in worsening flood events. They are committed to modernizing stormwater management systems that focus on upgrading drainage networks and expanding the capacity of culverts with green infrastructure, and introducing permeable surfaces in new developments. Investing in green infrastructure reduces surface runoff and allows the natural resources to absorb excess rainwater more effectively.
The candidates also prioritize proactive measures including the restoration of wetlands and floodplains that serve as natural buffers during heavy rainfall. They will adopt flood mitigation strategies based on data and predictive modeling, ensuring that at-risk areas receive the attention they need before disaster strikes. Their goal is to implement these measures in a fiscally responsible manner that protects property and lives. This is in line with New Jersey Protecting Against Climate Threats (NJ PACT), a partnership with municipalities and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to help both stave off the worst impacts of climate change and adapt to the unavoidable impacts already occurring across the State.
Strickland, Sackett, and Ravitz pledge to work closely with state and federal agencies, including the NJDEP and FEMA, to secure funding and technical assistance for flood mitigation projects. Their goal is to build a resiliency network throughout the county, ensuring that municipalities work together to address shared vulnerabilities.
In an era where climate change threatens the safety and stability of our communities, it is reassuring to see candidates like Strickland, Sackett, and Ravitz offering clear and actionable solutions. Their vision for Morris County is one where we no longer have to live in fear of the next big storm but can instead embrace a future of preparedness, sustainability, and resilience.
Flooding is a complex issue, but with the leadership of Strickland, Sackett, and Ravitz and a commitment to sustainable, long-term solutions, Morris County can become more resilient and better equipped to weather the storms ahead.
Sincerely,
Judy Hernandez
Evan Schwartz Honored for Academic Achievement and Proclaimed NJ Microsoft Office Specialist Champion
PARSIPPANY — At the Parsippany Town Council meeting on Tuesday, September 24th, Mayor James Barberio proudly presented a Proclamation to Evan Schwartz, a 15-year-old Parsippany resident, recognizing his academic excellence. Evan, an alumnus of Lake Hiawatha Elementary School and Central Middle School, is currently a sophomore at the Academy for Business Administration at Morris County School of Technology, located at Randolph High School.
Balancing a rigorous schedule, Evan attends classes both at Randolph High School and County College of Morris, where he is on track to graduate with a high school diploma and an Associate’s Degree in Business. As part of the Academy’s requirements, students must become certified in Microsoft Office, a challenge Evan exceeded with flying colors.
During his certification tests, Evan was notified by Pearson Testing and Microsoft that he had not only achieved a perfect score in Microsoft PowerPoint but had also completed the exam in the fastest time in New Jersey. This outstanding accomplishment earned him the title of New Jersey State Champion for Microsoft Office Specialist.
Representing New Jersey, Evan went on to compete at the Microsoft Office Specialist National Championships at Disney World in Orlando from June 17-19, where he faced off against champions from across the country, ranging in age from 14 to 22. His performance on the national stage was recognized by both the Morris County School of Technology and the County College of Morris, acknowledging his hard work and dedication.
Looking toward the future, Evan plans to continue his education as a Business Major after completing his current program. His achievement not only highlights his academic abilities but also serves as an inspiration to other students striving for excellence.
Parsippany Police Honor Officer Anderson’s Retirement
PARSIPPANY — On September 27th, the Parsippany Police Department gathered to celebrate the retirement of Patrolman Theodore Anderson after 23 years of distinguished service to the community.
Before joining the department, Officer Anderson served in the United States Army and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Throughout his career, he earned numerous accolades, including three Life-Saving Awards and two Exceptional Duty Awards.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Patrolman Anderson for his unwavering dedication to protecting and serving Parsippany, and we wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement!
One Dead, One Wounded in Double Shooting at Fairfield Ramada Inn
FAIRFIELD — A double shooting at the Ramada by Wyndham on Two Bridges Road in Fairfield on Friday left one person dead and another wounded, according to authorities.
A spokesperson from the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that the agency’s Homicide Task Force responded to the scene and discovered one victim deceased upon arrival. Further details regarding the victims or suspects were not immediately available.
The Fairfield Police Department released a statement at 1:00 p.m. alerting residents to a significant police presence near the Ramada Inn and Jose Tejas restaurant. They urged the public to avoid the area and refrain from calling police headquarters for information, emphasizing that all official updates would be provided through the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office and the Fairfield Police.
At 2:15 p.m., Fairfield Police issued an update, reassuring the community:
“As we continue this investigation, we can confirm there is no active shooter in Fairfield or the surrounding areas. Again, all accurate information will be posted here or through the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office as it becomes available.”
By 4:15 p.m., authorities confirmed there was no ongoing threat to the community, sharing that two individuals had been shot during the incident.
“It is confirmed that a shooting occurred today at the Ramada by Wyndham on Two Bridges Road,” police stated. “Two people were shot, with one confirmed deceased at the scene. The second victim is currently undergoing surgery at a local hospital. Additional information regarding a suspect will be shared as it becomes available. Again, there is no threat to the community.”
The deceased victim has been identified as Mohammad Sahariar, 28, of Fairfield.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office.
Driver Arrested for DUI After Collision on Cherry Hill Road
PARSIPPANY – On the afternoon of September 19, 2024, officers from the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department responded to the scene of a motor vehicle accident involving a black Mazda CX-3 on Cherry Hill Road, where the vehicle had veered off the roadway and collided with a utility pole. The driver, later identified as Patrick J. Sarnowski, 48, of Sparta, was arrested at the scene for driving under the influence of drugs.
Upon arrival at 205 Cherry Hill Road, Parsippany-Hills Police Sgt. Conklin and Officer William Stone observed Sarnowski’s vehicle off the roadway, its driver-side airbag deployed. Emergency medical personnel were already on the scene, attending to Sarnowski, who was conscious and alert but displayed signs of impairment. According to the police report, Sarnowski stated that an unidentified third vehicle had entered his lane, causing him to swerve off the road and crash into the pole.
However, while speaking with Sarnowski, Sgt. Conklin noted that the driver’s pupils were significantly dilated and he appeared to be sweating excessively despite the cool weather. These observations, combined with Sarnowski’s erratic explanation of the incident, led Sgt. Conklin to conduct field sobriety tests at the scene.
Sarnowski failed multiple field sobriety tests, including the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, the Walk and Turn test, and the One Leg Stand test. Due to his inability to perform these tasks, Sgt. Conklin placed Sarnowski under arrest for suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs and transported him to police headquarters for further testing.
At police headquarters, Patrolman Daniel Ross, a certified Drug Recognition Expert (DRE), conducted a thorough evaluation. Despite a 0.00% reading on the Alcotest breathalyzer, Ross’s evaluation confirmed that Sarnowski was under the influence of a controlled substance. Blood and urine samples were collected with Sarnowski’s consent and submitted for testing.
In addition to driving under the influence, Sarnowski was issued multiple summonses:
- DUI – Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs (39:4-50)
- Operating an unregistered vehicle (39:3-4)
- Operating a vehicle without insurance (39:6B-2)
- Reckless driving (39:4-96)
Sarnowski was processed and later transported to Morristown Medical Center, where medical personnel drew blood samples under police supervision. The investigation remains ongoing, pending the results of toxicology reports.
Editors 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 reasonable doubt.
Morris County Correctional Facility Receives Perfect Marks
MORRIS COUNTY — In August 2024, the Morris County Correctional Facility (MCCF) was subject to inspection by the New Jersey Department of Corrections (NJDOC). The inspection, which is conducted annually, examines the facility’s physical structure and ensures policies are being applied to the high standard required by the NJDOC. Recently, Sheriff James M. Gannon and the MCCF Administration were informed that the audit determined there was a 100% compliance rating in all NJDOC standards.
Christel Jackson-Lee of the NJDOC was the auditor conducting the inspection. She praised the staff for their high level of professionalism, the courtesy that was displayed when interacting with her, and the job knowledge she witnessed while touring the facility. She was also extremely impressed by the cleanliness and overall management of the jail.
Sheriff Gannon stated, “A 100% compliance rating is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all facility staff members. I would like to thank each of them for their continued efforts in making the MCCF one of the best in the country and would like to congratulate them on a job well done, all while working the toughest beat in Morris County.” The 2024 average daily population in the MCCF is 325 inmates. Year to August inmate management has seen 1,752 individual admissions and 1,656 individual discharges.
Uniting in Faith and Love for Animals: Join the Blessing Ceremony in Parsippany
PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, October 6, starting at 1:00 p.m., St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church, located at 480 S. Beverwyck Road, will host the first-ever joint Blessing of the Animals event in collaboration with St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church and Parsippany United Methodist Church.
This event marks a special occasion as three churches, belonging to the Interfaith Clergy Council, come together for this heartwarming ceremony. People of all denominations are invited to participate, and all animals are welcome to receive blessings.
Additionally, dog and cat food donations, paper towels, and cat litter will be accepted to support the Mount Pleasant Animal Shelter. This is a wonderful opportunity to unite as a community, honor our beloved pets, and support a great cause.
Stickley Museum Re-Opens with Ribbon-Cutting, Honoring 40 Years of dePierro’s Service
PARSIPPANY — The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms, the early 20th century historic home of Gustav Stickley, is celebrating its re-opening with a FREE Fall Open House on Saturday, October 26, 2024, that will include a ribbon-cutting and reception honoring Michael dePierro for forty years of public service to Parsippany. The museum’s re-opened space will feature the rebuilt Annex Visitor Pavilion, restored Log House Kitchen, and interpreted Log House Porch. The Annex will be the home of the museum’s Craftsman Shop.
Gustav Stickley was a designer, manufacturer, and the visionary behind Craftsman Farms. Stickley originally intended the Log House, which lies in the heart of the property, to serve as a clubhouse for Craftsman Farms. Completed in 1911, it evolved into the Stickley family home and today is a historic house museum.
The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms will re-open in a way that has not been possible since March 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the museum to close its in-person operations. This closure was compounded by a tropical storm that brought severe damage to the Annex; the structure adjacent to the Log House. Addressing this damage further delayed a full re-opening as the museum’s leadership worked on plans to fund, rebuild, and interpret the space. Facing repeated challenges, construction extended more than a year past the expected completion date.
“But now, the end of construction is in sight, and with it, the beginning of a new era. Although it is coming later than expected, in some ways, the timing could not be better,” explained the Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms’ Executive Director Vonda K. Givens. “The end of construction and our full re-opening will coincide with the museum’s 35th Anniversary celebration!”
After thirty-five years, visitors will for the first time experience the fully restored Log House Kitchen, along with the newly interpreted Log House Porch, both furnished to honor Stickley’s original vision during his tenure at Craftsman Farms. These spaces, which formerly served as The Craftsman Shop and an orientation space, will now further the historic narrative of the Log House. As for The Craftsman Shop, it is now located in the rebuilt Annex Visitor Pavilion, which also will serve as the museum’s main entrance.
The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms will kick off its re-opening FREE Fall Open House with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the presentation of the “Gustav Stickley Award,” honoring former
Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Michael dePierro for his dedication to saving and preserving Craftsman Farms and his invaluable support of the museum since its inception. With more than 40 years of dedicated public service and community involvement, dePierro has been instrumental in improving the quality of life for Parsippany residents. The museum is proud to honor his many years of leadership.
The re-opening FREE Fall Open House will take place on Saturday, October 26, 2024.
For more information about the reopening and upcoming events, please visit our website at www.stickleymuseum.org or follow us on social media.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus magazine, October 2024 issue. Click here to read the magazine.