MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio urged all New Jerseyans to join him in recognizing and celebrating the 75th anniversary of Indian independence on Monday, August 15.
“We would like to congratulate India as it celebrates 75 years of independence from colonial rule,” said Pennacchio (R-26). “We welcome our friendly relations with India, its support for democracy, and the role the nation has taken in urging peaceful solutions to conflict on the world stage.”
India became an independent nation on August 15, 1947 through the passage of the Indian Independence Act by the British Parliament.
Pennacchio said that India, with 1.4 billion people, is the world’s largest democracy and deserves the opportunity to play a greater role in the most important matters of international peace and security.
“As the world’s largest democracy and soon to be its most populous nation, India deserves a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council table,” said Pennacchio. “The occasion of India’s 75th anniversary of independence would be a great time to elevate the nation and recognize its increasingly important role in world affairs.”
The United Nations Security Council is currently composed of 15 members. The five permanent members include: China, France, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States. There are also 10 non-permanent members, with non consecutive two-year terms, that are elected on a regional basis.
Pennacchio sponsors SR-31, a legislative resolution urging the United Nations to seat India as a permanent member on the United Nations Security Council.
“New Jersey has a vibrant and strong Indian community, which has given us a great opportunity to learn about the wonderful people and rich culture of India,” added Pennacchio. “We look forward to strengthening those ties during the 75th-anniversary celebration and beyond.”
MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette issued a statewide drought watch as of August 9, 2022, and the Murphy Administration is urging residents and businesses to conserve water as persistent dry and hot conditions continue to stress water supplies throughout the state.
Residents and businesses are urged to conserve water as persistent dry and hot conditions continue to stress water supplies throughout the state.
The Commissioner’s declaration of a drought watch is the first stage in the State’s three-stage drought advisory system. The watch is intended to sow public awareness and appreciation of the stress upon water supply sources and encourage voluntary water conservation measures.
If conditions do not improve, declaration of a drought warning or a drought emergency with mandatory water use restrictions may become necessary. Voluntary conservation measures at the watch stage can help to avoid more serious and restrictive drought conditions.
The DEP is continuing to closely monitor drought indicators, which include precipitation, stream flows, reservoir levels, ground water levels, and water demand. DEP will continue to inform the public, local governments, and water systems of future actions to mitigate the risk of more severe conditions.
MORRIS COUNTY — Members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office will be participating in two programs, organized to collect and distribute backpacks filled with various school supplies to those in need. The first event, the Backpack Giveaway organized by Table of Hope, is scheduled for August 19 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the parking lot of The County College of Morris; and the second event, the Community Book-Bag Giveaway organized by Bethsaida Chapter 7, is on August 27
from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Bishop Nazery Way parking lot, located at 65 Spring Street, Morristown.
The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Police Benevolent Association Local #327 has graciously donated twenty backpacks and school supplies for both events, and made financial donations to both organizations to assist with their efforts.
Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said, “Members of our office consistently demonstrate acts of kindness and consideration for others, setting an example for all to follow.”
http:/https://morrisfocus.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/skate1.pngMORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Park Commission’s skating program at the Mennen Sports Arena is being honored by the national Learn to Skate USA organization, which has ranked it No. 1 in New Jersey.
Learn to Skate announced the ranking in an August 4, 2022 letter noting the Morris County skating program enrolled 1,242 skaters this year into the affiliated Mennen Learn to Skate program. The achievement will land the Mennen Arena program a highlight in the Winter Issue of the Learn to Skate USA Magazine and the October Issue of SKATING Magazine, where the Morris County program will be shared with all members of U.S. Figure Skating.
“To be acknowledged by Learn to Skate USA for the Arena’s Learn to Skate Program is a testament to the dedicated professional skate instructors, arena staff and the participants who will benefit from learning a skill that will allow for low impact physical activity for a lifetime,” said David Helmer, Executive Director of the Morris County Park Commission.
Learn to Skate USA is a world-recognized educational program that promotes skating nationally. It is supported by U.S. Figure Skating, USA Hockey and U.S. Speedskating, as well as the Special Olympics, the Professional Skaters Association and the U.S. Ice Rink Association.
Learn to Skate USA offers a standardized curriculum designed to help skaters of all ages and abilities master the basics of ice skating through specially formulated pathways for preschoolers, older children, adults and skaters with disabilities.
The William G. Mennen Sports Arena was built in 1973 on donated land in Morris Township and it was opened to the public on January 12, 1975 with only one ice surface and permanent seating for 2,500 spectators. In 1986, a second ice surface was completed and in 2002, a third ice surface was completed.
Mennen Sports Arena now receives over 1 million visitors annually, and has hosted everyone from National Hockey League players and Olympic champion skaters to world class tennis players and pop-music stars at the many events held in nearly 50 years of operations.
PARSIPPANY — On Monday, August 15 beginning at 7:00 p.m., the Morris County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit will be visiting the Parsippany Main Library.
A Sheriff’s Officer will be bringing their canine partners in for a special demonstration on how they help them solve crimes and what their day to day jobs are like.
Don’t miss out on this special program for all ages.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Main Library is located at 449 Halsey Road.
MORRIS COUNTY — Assemblyman Brian Bergen joined the U.S. Military Academy’s class of 2026 Monday on its 12-mile predawn March Back, the final leg of their six-week basic training called “Beast.” The cadets disembarked at 4:00 a.m. from Lake Frederick to the academy, where they will be officially accepted into the Corps of Cadets August 13.
Bergen, a 2001 West Point graduate and Apache helicopter pilot who served in Iraq, joined 180 alumni in this annual tradition.
Assemblyman Brian Bergen (R-Morris) joined the class of 2026 West Point cadets on their march back from Lake Frederick to the U.S. Military Academy Aug. 8, 2022. (Photo courtesy Brian Bergen)
“The nostalgia of course was overwhelming. The experience I had during my cadet basic training shaped who I am today,” Bergen (R-Morris) said. “The training is brutal and feels like it will never end while you’re in it, but it’s the bonds formed there that go on forever.”
Bergen marched back with cadets from his legislative district, Sathvik Medapati of Parsippany and Molly Webber of Morris Plains, daughter of Assemblyman Jay Webber and sister of Annie, a cadet at the U.S. Air Force Academy. They met up with two other cadets, Nick Taverone of Denville and Tyler Catapano of Parsippany, later in the march.
“These young men and women are the lifeblood of our republic. To be among them inspires me and gives me tremendous hope for our country’s future,” Bergen said.
Assemblyman Brian Bergen (R-Morris, center) is joined by Molly Webber, left, daughter of Assemblyman Jay Webber, and Sathvik Medapati, right, both of his legislative district, on their march back August 8, 2022. (Photo courtesy Brian Bergen)
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Police Department is looking to fill vacant substitute crossing guard positions. When needed, substitute crossing guards usually work 4 to 5 hours per day.
If you are interested in becoming a substitute crossing guard, please pick up an application at Town Hall or download one from by clicking here.
If you have any questions regarding the position, please contact the crossing guard coordinator Patrolman Jason Lubeck at jlubeck@parpolice.com
MORRIS COUNTY — Dee dePierro was named “2022 Woman of the Year” by Morris County Women’s Republican Club.
Dee and Michael moved to Parsippany in 1965 when Michael accepted a position with Bell Telephone Laboratories. Michael and Dee have three children: Richard, Jeanette and Theresa.
Dee graduated from Manhattan Medical and Dental school and served as a Lab Technician at New Rochelle Hospital.
After their three children were all in school, she worked for Rutgers Pharmacy. When the Pharmacist realized that all Medicare and Medicaid forms that she completed were all processed without errors, she was the only one allowed to process those forms. If she was home because of school vacation days or one of the children were sick, the Pharmacist sent the forms home to Dee to complete. She later worked for Dr. Schuster and then a Law firm.
Then she worked for St. Teresa Church in Summit for 18 years as an Office Manager.
The dePierro Family
As their three children moved through Elementary, Middle and High School, Dee participated in all school and classroom activities: PTA’s; tricky trays; bake sales; picnics; field trips; Football Boosters; Soccer Boosters; Field Hockey Boosters; Cheerleader Boosters; etc.
Dee is very involved with St. Ann Church, Parsippany: Eucharistic Minister, Door Hospitality Ministry, Prayer Group Ministry. Volunteer for all fundraisers: Baked Goods sales; Tricky Tray sales; Raffles; Golf outings; and food pantry donations. Dee also “Adopted Senior Citizens”, cooking dinners for them and reaching out to them during holidays.
At All Saints Academy she always supported Tricky Tray fundraisers; Donate Door Prizes; and encouraged many friends to join.
Dee was very involved in politics. She was Republican Committee Woman in District 36 for 40 years. Member of the Morris County Women’s Republican Club.
Dee volunteered in campaigns for President Reagan, Congressman Dean Gallo; Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen; State Senator Leanna Brown; Sheriff Ed Rochford, Sheriff Jim Gannon. Assemblyman Alex DeCroce; Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce; State Committee Woman Christina Ramirez, State Committeeman Larry Casha, also Larry Casha for Congress; Paul DeGroot for Congress; Michael dePierro for School Board; and Michael dePierro for Township Council; Served as a Legislative Aide for Senator Leanna Brown for eight years. Supported many candidates for freeholder; for the Township Council; and for the School Board, making Phone calls and walking door-to-door for the candidates.
Dee is a cancer survivor. She has volunteered in all Cancer Walk fundraisers: Baked Cupcakes and set up dinner tent for cancer survivors alongside Karen DeChristopher.
Her Cancer Doctor, Dr. Ken Adler referred many women to her and when they were told they had breast cancer. I mentored many women going through Breast Cancer: going with them to first Chemo; sharing with them my experiences; instilling in them a positive attitude.
On Saturday, August 6 the Morris County Women’s Republican Club held their “First Annual Woman of the Year” brunch in honor of Dee dePierro.
Morris County Women Republican Club President Phyllis Florek and Sharon Marshall BattaglinoMayor James Barberio hugs Dee dePierro after presenting her with a proclamation
Morris County Women Republican Club President Phyllis Florek welcomed the guest and introduced the speakers. Mayor James Barberio spoke and gave Dee a “Certificate of Recognition” from the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.
Dee dePierro and her daughter Theresa dePierro
Also speaking about Dee’s life and community involvement was her daughters, Jeanette dePierro-Blodgett and Theresa dePierro; Loretta Gragnani and BettyLou DeCroce.
Jeanette dePierro-Blodgett speaking about Dee’s accomplishmentsState Senator Joe Pennacchio with Dee dePierro
State Senator Joe Pennacchio presented a proclamation on behalf of himself and Districts 21, 24, 25 and 26.
Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi named “Dee County Clerk for a day” as well as Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling named her “Surrogate for a day,” and both presented Dee with a Proclamation. Morris County Sheriff James Gannon presented Dee with a plaque and gave Dee his badge.
Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling with Dee dePierroMorris County Sheriff James Gannon presented Dee with a plaque and gave Dee his badge.Morris County Commissioners Deborah Smith, Tayfun Selen; Dee dePierro, John Krickus and Tom Mastrangelo presented Dee with a proclamation. Doug Cabana; Kathryn DeFillippo; Stephen Shaw were not present.
Morris County Commissioners Tayfun Selen; John Krickus; Doug Cabana; Kathryn DeFillippo; Tom Mastrangelo; Stephen Shaw; and Deborah Smith presented Dee with a proclamation.
“Congratulations Dee, your never-ending and unconditional support for your family, for your community, for your personal friends and for your political friends without ever asking for anything in return has finally been recognized. Although all of this attention may be uncomfortable for you, enjoy your day. You are surrounded by people who love and respect you. Your loving husband,” said Michael dePierro.
“Congratulations on being named “Woman of the Year.” You are Woman of the Year every year to your family. We are proud of you and love you always,” said Richard dePierro.
The room was packed with family, friends and local politicians
Loretta Gragnani said “Dee brings leadership qualities, commitment and dedication to the entire Republican Party. She is a strong Republican woman who has volunteered her time and knowledge whether you were seeking a position in the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills or a higher political position in the county. Dee is well deserving of being selected as the First Woman of the Year by the MCWRC, congratulations Dee.”
“Therese dePierro said ” My mom is just simply amazing. Her attributes of integrity, compassion, dedication, loyalty, intelligence, strength and kindness are all wrapped up into a loving heart that supports her family, her friends and her community. She puts everyone before herself with a smile and never says no to helping others.”
“My mom is the definition of altruism. This is who she is. It’s how she was raised and it’s how she raised her children,” said Jeanette dePierro-Blodgett.
Dee dePierro said “I was so surprised when Phyllis Florek informed me that I was to be the recipient of the Morris County Women’s Republican Club 1st Annual “Woman of the Year” Award. As the arrangements were made and the invitations went out, the significance of this honor sank in. As many of you know, I am not one to crave the spotlight. So, accepting this award was very much out of the ordinary for me. The Brunch at the Smoke Rise Village in Kinnelon, on Saturday, August 6, 2022, will remain in my heart forever.”
“I have so many people to thank, starting with Phyllis Florek and the MCWRC Committee that selected me, and all of the MCWRC members who made this brunch such a success. I thank everyone who attended. I am grateful that so many of my Family and friends could be there. I would also like to thank all of the Presenters and Speakers.”
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Vice Chairman Dr. Bhagirath Maheta and Former Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce
Dee dePierro and Paul DeGroot, Candidate for US Congress - CD11
Jonathan Cohen, Dee dePierro and Olivia Cohen
Members of Morris County Republican Womans Club present Dee dePierro with an engraved serving platter
Former Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce and Sharon Battaglino
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Frank Neglia, Former Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Secretary Raj Dichpally, Dee dePierro, Rotary President Santosh Peddi, Michael dePierro and Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella and Dee dePierro
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment approved Application 21.63, Chick-fil-A, 1180 Route 46, Block 715, Lot 11.1, in B-2 Zone.
All members of the board voted yes, with the exception of Nancy Snyder, who was very vocal with her objections.
Chick-fil-A will be replacing four old dilapidated buildings build in the sixties, that are run down and lack tenants.
Drawing of proposed Chick-fil-A
The new building will be 5,338 square feet with 62 interior seats and 18 exterior seating. 81 total number of parking spaces, and eight electric charging stations. In addition the drive through will consist of two lanes with enough room to stack about 60 cars.
Chick-fil-A will be replacing four old dilapidated buildings build in the sixties, that are run down and lack tenants.
This property was slowly dying and required a new life. The property had only 30% occupancy and in last three years there were about six robberies, and there was evidence of people using this site at night time to abuse drugs. The property is an eyesore.
Colony Plaza - Route 46 West
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The old run down Colony Plaza will be replaced with a modern Chick-fil-A
The old run down Colony Plaza will be replaced with a modern Chick-fil-A
The old run down Colony Plaza will be replaced with a modern Chick-fil-A
The old run down Colony Plaza will be replaced with a modern Chick-fil-A
The old run down Colony Plaza will be replaced with a modern Chick-fil-A
The old run down Colony Plaza will be replaced with a modern Chick-fil-A
The old run down Colony Plaza will be replaced with a modern Chick-fil-A
The old run down Colony Plaza will be replaced with a modern Chick-fil-A
The old run down Colony Plaza will be replaced with a modern Chick-fil-A
The old run down Colony Plaza will be replaced with a modern Chick-fil-A
The property could have been developed with a 24-7, 365 day Wawa or QuickChek, however the landlord chose Chick-fil-A since it wasn’t a 24-7, 365 day business, and is also closed on Sunday. The property could also have been used by a Bolla, Supermarket, Auto Repair Shop, Pub, section 8 residentials and many other uses.
Chick-fil-A will employ approximately 80 local residents, with local residents having first opportunity.
“I would like to thank all the board members who supported the Chick-fil-A application. I also would like to Thank Chairman Robert Iracane for thinking out of box and having the vision for last 27 years to understand the need to improve our community. Thank you to all Township representatives and Joe O’Neill, Robert Garofalo attorney, and people supported the project,” stated the landlord of the property.”
PARSIPPANY — Positive Development will host an open house for families and professionals on Saturday, August 13 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at its clinic on 299 Cherry Hill Road, Suite 108, with a ribbon cutting ceremony during the event. The ribbon cutting will be held at 11:15 a.m. with Mayor James Barberio, members of the Township Council, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, members of the committee and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.
Positive Development provides comprehensive developmental therapy that treats children and teens on the autism spectrum. Their transdisciplinary, integrative approach includes occupational, speech, and mental health therapies as well as ongoing parent coaching and support, empowering parents as an essential member of their child’s care team. A better choice for many families, their evidence-based model meets the child where they are to build more meaningful connections and relationships.
“Through our comprehensive developmental therapy, we will help more children achieve the outcomes that are most relevant to themselves and their families as they achieve greater growth, independence, and joy,” says Positive Development CEO, Mike Suiters.
Clinical Director, Natalie Kitts, adds, “This is my dream come true, being the Clinical Director in NJ with an amazing team of therapists. Together, we plan to make developmental therapy accessible to as many families as possible.”
Bring the family and join to:
Learn more about developmental approaches in autism care
Tour the clinic and its sensory-friendly gym
Enjoy light refreshment and entertainment
Meet our Positive Development Staff
Experience and celebrate pure joy in progress
Please RSVP online here. For any other questions about this event and to keep informed on news and updates, schedule an assessment, or join the team, please reach out to Positive Development via the following options by clicking here, or call (862) 339-4379 or email info@positivedevelopment.com.
Residents and businesses are urged to conserve water as persistent dry and hot conditions continue to stress water supplies throughout the state.
mandatory water use restrictions may become necessary. Voluntary conservation measures at the watch stage can help to avoid more serious and restrictive drought conditions.
Learn to Skate USA is a world-recognized educational program that promotes skating nationally. It is supported by U.S. Figure Skating, USA Hockey and U.S. Speedskating, as well as the Special Olympics, the Professional Skaters Association and the U.S. Ice Rink Association.
