DeFillippo Announces She Will Not Seek Re-Election After Her Term Expires

MORRIS COUNTY — Commissioner Kathy DeFillippo, who has served on the Morris County Board of Commissioners since 2014, announced she will not seek re-election alongside her long-time running mates Doug Cabana and Tom Mastrangelo.

“After talking to Doug, Tom, and my family, I have decided to step back from elected office and to devote myself to my growing family and my other personal priorities,” DeFillippo explained. “It was not an easy decision. Serving the people of Morris County on the Board of Commissioners has been a great honor. I know I am leaving the Board in good hands with the exceptional leadership of the current Commissioners, including my running mates Doug Cabana and Tom Mastrangelo, who continue to have my support and warm regard. “I am most proud of leaving a legacy of strengthening the County’s Human Services, especially for seniors, veterans, and women and children in need,” DeFillippo said.

“At the same time, we were also successful in keeping taxes low, preserving open space, and ensuring Morris County remains an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family.” During her eight years on the County Commission, DeFillippo served as its Director for two years, in 2015 and 2016. She also serves as Chair of the Board of North Jersey Transportation Authority (NJTPA), where she has been a Board Member since 2014, representing Morris County. DeFillippo has also served on the Council and as Mayor of the Township of Roxbury.

“Kathy will be sorely missed. Both as a good friend and as a colleague on the Board. Her leadership, experience, and vision cannot be overstated. Kathy is the gold standard for public service. We thank Kathy for her service and wish her nothing but the very best now and into the future,” stated Commissioners Doug Cabana and Tom Mastrangelo.

Friendship Club Restarted at Temple Beth Am

PARSIPPANY — For a decade, the Friendship Club of Temple Beth Am, a seniors ages 50+ group, ran flawlessly. It met approximately 10 times per year with many different style programs such as in-house lunch/speaker groups, going to Duke Gardens, theater trips, museum visits, movies, going out to restaurants and so many more activities too numerous to mention. It was never difficult to participate because it was a happy, friendly group that enjoyed being together. Then, almost two years ago something unheard of happened – Covid. For almost two years, our biggest activity was trying to remain healthy.

Last June, a hopeful past Friendship Club President arranged a Zoom board meeting. Zoom…it took a few and a bit of time to get connected but a meeting began. Could we figure out a way in this present day and age to get the Friendship Club started again? Would the Friendship Club be able to resume? We all looked at each other on the screen. One of the first Presidents of the Friendship Club from over a decade ago raised her hand and said ” Will everyone on this board remain in office? I’ll take the presidency if you stay on.” The Friendship Club of Temple Beth Am now had a full board, and ideas and thoughts began flying across the computer screen. We knew we needed some advance notice to publicize an event, what could we do in this covid environment? With a strong board, they met the challenge like other businesses, Temples, churches, schools, and stores. The group cut the meetings to only five this year. Then they started the year in September with a lovely luncheon in the garden patio at The Villages Restaurant in Morris Plains. The weather was perfect for an outside lunch, and they had many attendees. They were able to get a meeting during November with a speaker on Zero Mostel followed by lunch. The Friendship Club has three future meetings for January, March, and June.

Morris County Crime Stoppers Celebrated 35th Anniversary

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Crime Stoppers celebrated the 35th Anniversary at a dinner at the Birchwood Manor on Monday, December 13.

This Crime Stoppers Program began in 1986 in Morris County and not one person’s identity has ever been compromised. If you feel uncomfortable about reporting a crime, now you have methods where no one will ask your name or want to know who you are. Our new methods of reporting crime or threats include an anonymous phone application and a website submission form. These new methods meet the same privacy criteria that we have been using for over 35 years.

Morris County Crimestopper Commissioner Khaled Madin, Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Municipal Prosecutor Monica Madin
Morris County Sheriff James Gannon receiving a plaque from Morris County Crime Stoppers Chairman John Sette

Honored for their achievements were the Morristown Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff’s department. Presenting the awards was Chairman of the Crime Stoppers, John Sette.  Sheriff Jim Gannon gave a complimentary rich speech regarding the Morristown Police Department.

and Hanover Township Deputy Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor-elect James Barberio with Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Clerk Khaled Madin. Madin is also a Commissioner for Morris County Crime Stoppers
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman-elect Justin Musella, Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen, and Parsippany Republican Club Chairman Dr. Louis Valori
Par-Troy Little League East President Chris Mazzarella with Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr.
Delores dePierro with Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Michael dePierro

 

 

Hailey Budney was Named to Dean’s List

PARSIPPANY — In recognition of academic performance, the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs at the University of the Cumberlands has announced the students named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2021 semester.

To be eligible for the Dean’s List, students must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours (a full course load), maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.50, and be in good academic standing.

Hailey Budney of Lake Hiawatha was named to the Dean’s List.

The University of the Cumberlands is one of the largest and most affordable private universities in Kentucky. Located in Williamsburg, Kentucky, Cumberlands is an institution of regional distinction offering quality undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and online degree programs. Learn more at ucumberlands.edu.

State Senator and Police Chief Honored at Morris County’s Annual Holiday Luncheon

MORRIS COUNTY — A capacity crowd of countywide law enforcement officials, elected representatives, family, and friends, assembled at the Park Savoy Estates in Florham Park on December 14 where State Senator for New Jersey’s 25th District, Anthony M. Bucco, was awarded the prestigious, “Honorary Chief of the Morris County Police Chief’s Association” designation and plaque.

Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Senator Anthony Bucco, and Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll
Anthony M. Bucco was awarded the prestigious, “Honorary Chief of the Morris County Police Chief’s Association” designation and plaque

The recipient of this annual honor is chosen only after thoughtful consideration, and as Sheriff Gannon stated, “it is not given out lightly.”  Interestingly, the recipient of the Association’s first “Honorary Chief” award was the late Senator Anthony R. Bucco’s, Senator Anthony R. Bucco’s father.

Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn preceded the presentation with congratulatory comments recognizing the Senator’s achievements, the award was then presented by Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon; Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll; Commissioner Stephen H. Shaw; and Chief of Police Jeffrey Almer; currently the President of the Association.

Stephen Beecher with Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw

Bucco was highly praised for his ongoing commitment to law enforcement throughout his tenure both as an Assemblyman and Senator. The Senator’s acceptance speech was met with a lengthy standing ovation.

Also recognized during the ceremonies was the Association’s 2021 President and Chief of the Mount Olive Police Department, Stephen Beecher. The Chief, whose late father Stephen was also a police officer, was recognized for his continuous efforts towards building positive relationships within his community, as well as for his recognition of the historical problems associated with racial justice, his willingness to listen to innovative ideas, and his recognition of the need for reform and improvement when needed. During his acceptance speech, Beecher also recognized his Mayor and Council members, who were in attendance, and of course, his family, for all their cooperation and support during his tenure as Chief.

The ceremonial portion of the luncheon concluded with the installation of the Association’s new 2022 Executive Board.

  • Mendham Township Chief of Police Ross Johnson – Vice President
  • Mount Arlington Chief of Police Edward LaBruno – Sergeant at Arms
  • Wharton Borough Chief of Police David Young – Treasurer
  • Morris Plains Chief of Police Michael Koroski- Secretary

The Chiefs Association’s mission involves securing and improving unity of action in all public safety matters and elevating the standards of the police profession among its members and the greater law enforcement community. It also attempts to advance the skills, techniques, and training of its members and subordinates, promote greater efficiency and effectiveness in the law enforcement profession and ensure that efforts at preventing crime, detecting crime, and prosecuting crime are improved.

Santa Arrives at District 5 Firehouse

PARSIPPANY — Santa arrived at the Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire Department 5 on Sunday, December 12.

Parsippany Focus publisher Frank Cahill, Santa, Ildiko Peluso, and Robert Peluso
Alessandra Umana, Camila Tasso, Rafaella Tasso and Daniel Umana
Brian Ricci, Santa and Nicole Calabrese
Robert Peluso, Santa, Ildiko Peluso, and Robert Peluso
Mayor Elect James Barberio talks to Santa
Santa

 

Scouts BSA Troop 173 Participates in Toys for Tots Toy Drive

PARSIPPANY — Scouts BSA Troop 173 of Parsippany participated in the annual Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots toy drive.

Troop 173 collected over 120 toys that, along with others collected by Scouts in Patriots Path Council, will be distributed to needy children of all ages during the holiday season.  Troop 173 has served youth in the Parsippany area since 1957, and participates in many community and conservation service projects.

In addition to participating in the Toys for Tots toy drive, the members of Troop 173 have recently held food drives, coat collections, built bat houses, helped clean up Troy Meadows, and served the community in many other activities.

Parsippany Recycling for Next Week

PARSIPPANY — Due to next week’s holiday, the Department of Public Works will observe several schedule changes that residents should be aware of. Please see below for changes to each district:

  • Wednesday, December 22: Garbage Districts 1, 2, 4 | Recycling District 3 | No Cardboard Pickup
  • Thursday, December 23: Garbage Districts 3, 5, 6 | Recycling Districts 4 & 5 | Recycling Center closed
  • Friday, December 24: Recycling Center Closed, | No Garbage or Recycling Pickup
  • Saturday, December 25: Recycling Center closed, | No Garbage or Recycling Pickup

For more information, please contact Township of Parsippany’s Department of Public Works at (973) 263-7273.

SportsMed Physical Therapy Celebrates Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting

PARSIPPANY — SportsMed Physical Therapy is a premier physical therapy company with 24 locations across NJ & CT. Our newest location is now open in Parsippany and we are excited to serve the Morris County area. Our mission is to set the standard in quality patient care, and we focus on serving and supporting our patients on their journeys to feeling & performing their best. In addition to state-of-the-art equipment and highly skilled doctors of physical therapy, many of our locations also offer chiropractic & acupuncture for a truly holistic wellness experience. No prescription is required to get started; simply contact our office and can verify your insurance for you and schedule an appointment at your convenience.

Kevin Bauman, PT, DPT, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Vice-Chair Frank Cahill, Chair Robert Peluso, and Jessica Simeooglou

Kevin Bauman, PT, DPT is a Physical Therapy and the Clinical Director of SportsMed Physical Therapy Parsippany. Kevin specializes in orthopedics and has extensive education and experience with manual therapy. As a former competitive athlete, he especially enjoys working with the athletic population, from school and professional athletes to weekend warriors.

Kevin says, “One of the most fulfilling things about my profession is seeing patients realize they are improving and starting to go back to their former selves prior to their injury. It is always satisfying to see a patient getting back to things they love to do, whether its sports or just being able to go for a walk or return to favorite hobbies.”

SportsMed Physical Therapy is located at 85 New Road, Parsippany. (973) 841-8437. www.spineandsportsmed.com.

Walmart Leases 90,000 Square Feet on Jefferson Road

PARSIPPANY — Walmart Store East has leased 90,000 square feet of warehouse space at 100 Jefferson Road.

According to a recent zoning permit filed with the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills, the operation will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The building which is under new ownership and management features approximately 550,000 square feet.  Easy access to I-287, I-80, I-280, and Routes 46, 10, and 24.

100 Jefferson Road