PARSIPPANY — Asish Bhuyan of Lake Hiawatha was selected to participate in this summer’s Adelphi University summer internship Jaggar Community Fellows program. A major in Global Business Management (MBA program), Bhuyan worked at the Center for Youth Dialogue.
The Jaggar Community Fellows Program, designed for continuing students, helps provide experience working for a nonprofit organization during the summer. Students in all fields of study are eligible to apply.
From June through August, fellows devote 30 hours a week for 10 weeks to a nonprofit organization to which they are assigned. For more than a decade, the program has been providing students with paid internships. See more about Adelphi’s distinctive Jaggar Community Fellows program.
Adelphi University, New York, is a highly awarded, nationally ranked, powerfully connected doctoral research university dedicated to transforming students’ lives through small classes with world-class faculty, hands-on learning, and innovative ways to support academic and career success. Adelphi offers exceptional liberal arts and sciences programs and professional training, with particular strength in our Core Four-Arts and Humanities, STEM and Social Sciences, the Business and Education Professions, and Health and Wellness.
Recognized as a Best College by U.S. News & World Report, Adelphi is Long Island’s oldest private coeducational university. It serves more than 7,500 students at its beautiful main campus in Garden City, New York — just 23 miles from New York City’s cultural and internship opportunities — and at dynamic learning hubs in Manhattan, the Hudson Valley, and Suffolk County, as well as online.
More than 118,000 Adelphi graduates have gained the skills to thrive professionally as active, engaged citizens, making their mark on the University, their communities, and the world.
PARSIPPANY — The honor and distinction of the Eagle Scout rank can only be achieved through hard work and commitment to the ideals of the Scouting movement. The achievement is so rare, that only 5% of Scouts earn the Eagle rank. Since its introduction in 1911, the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by more than two million Scouts.
Once a Scout advances to Eagle Scout, they will remain an Eagle for the rest of their life regardless of age or participation in Scouting. Eagle Scouts are expected to set an example for other Scouts and to become the leaders in life that they have demonstrated themselves to be in Scouting. As such, they have disproportionately represented in the military, service academy graduates, in higher education and academia, major professions, the clergy, business, and politics.
Eagle Scout of Honor
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The Vojta Family: John, Evan and Sandra
Evan Vojta placing a pin on his grandmother
Evan Vojta placing a pin on his grandfather
Evan Vojta placing a mother pin on his mother Sandra Vojta
Evan Vojta placing a father pin on his father John Vojta
Sandra Vojta places the Eagle Badge on Evan
Kyle placing the mother pin on his mother, Ann
Kyle placing the father pin on his father, Len
Ann Cipkins places the Eagle Badge on Kyle
Bruce Michaels, American Legion Post 249 with Kyle and Evan
Kyle, Bob Roberti, Sedgefield Civic Association and Evan
Kyle, Richard Kunz, and Mark Miller, VFW Post 10184 and Evan
Kyle, Carol Tiesi, Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany and Evan
Kyle, Frank Cahill, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and Evan
Kyle, Parsippany-Troy Hills Council member Paul Carifi, Jr., and Evan
Kyle, Parsippany-Troy Hill Superintendent of Schools Dr. Barbara Sargent, and Evan
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano, Kyle and Evan
Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw with Kyle and Evan
The Cipkins Family: Ann, Kyle, Len and Kali Cipkins
The pathway to Eagle can be described as a steep trail leading up to three peaks, the highest being that of Eagle Scout. Officially, the trail starts with the Tenderfoot rank and continues through Second and First Class ranks. Then, the mountain climbing begins. The path is marked with merit badges, leadership responsibilities, service projects, and the practice of Scouting skills and ideals. The first peak reached is that of Star Scout, the second is Life Scout, and, finally, Eagle Scout.
On Saturday, July 24, Parsippany welcomed two Scouts who advanced to Eagle Scout, Kyle Joseph Cipkins and Evan Thomas Vojta.
Scoutmaster Michael Catapano welcomed the guests to The Eagle Court of Honor. The invocation was by Deacon Al Frank, St. Ann’s Church with opening remarks, the Flag Salute, the Scout Oath, and Law was by Dylan Franz, Senior Patrol Leader. Troop Committee and Past Scoutmaster John Worthington certified the Eagle Candidates. John Worthington presented the Eagle Badge to Kyle and David Franz presented the Eagle Badge to Evan.
The Eagle Charge was presented by Howard Wolkow, benediction by Deacon Al Frank, St. Ann’s Church with the taps by Parsippany’s Anthony Paterno.
Kyle Joseph Cipkins
Kyle Joseph Cipkins
Kyle began his Scouting experience as a Tiger Scout with Pack #5 at Intervale School. His favorite activities in Cub Scouts were the Pinewood Derby, launching bottle rockets, and the week-long summer camp at Camp Wheeler. He earned the Arrow of Light and crossed over to Boy Scouts of America Troop 173 in 5th grade. In his first year in Scouting, he attended his first Boy Scout summer camp and participated in the Dan Beard program.
Throughout his experiences in the troop, Kyle has participated in countless campouts such as the National Jamboree, annual Turkey in a Can, and Big Trips. He has accumulated 91 total camping nights and has received the National Outdoors Award for camping. One of his favorite Big Trips was the visit to West Point in Virginia to watch the Army Vs Navy football game with the troop. He participated in the Iron Chef competitions every year, with his most memorable dish being spaghetti with spam and tomato sauce made with the help of his patrol. He loved the annual Klondike Derbies, improving his sled placing every year, winning second and first place in his final two years.
Kyle participated in and led several community service projects. He enjoyed assisting the Whippany River Watershed Action Committee, a non-profit organization specializing in environmental issues, performing outreach to communities, and assisting in yearly river cleanups. Through these service project opportunities, he completed a total of 60 community service hours by participating in Scouting for Food, clothing drives, and river cleanups. He earned the World Conservation Award for his service hours as well as the Environmental Science Merit Badge.
As a member of Troop 173, Kyle held 6 Positions of Responsibility including Den Chief, Instructor, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader, and Troop Guide under the guidance of his two Scoutmasters, Les Wu and Michael Catapano. Kyle enjoyed the Position of Senior Patrol Leader the most since it allowed him to inspire leadership and share knowledge with his fellow scouts.
Kyle was a Den Chief for two years assisting Pack 142 and achieved the Den Chief Service Award, helping the Cub Scouts learn important skills for when they cross over to Boy Scouts. He has also attended the National Youth Leadership Training Conference, where he learned valuable techniques to bring back and use to lead the troop. Kyle was elected into the Order of the Arrow and completed his Ordeal in 2019. The Order of the Arrow (OA) is a service organization and the national honor society of Scouts BSA.
Towards the end of his SPL tenure, the Covid-19 pandemic hit, shutting everything down, pausing all in-person meetings. There was no guidebook for virtual meetings, but with the help of his leadership team, he came up with the idea to hold troop meetings via Zoom. He held a virtual Patrol Leader Conference (PLC) every weekend and planned Friday meetings, engaging the scouts in activities such as Kahoot and Bingo. He was also able to plan and execute virtual campouts, having a Zoom meeting at the beginning, checking in halfway through, and a final Zoom leaving the scouts to go and camp in their own backyards. He incorporated activities such as a nature scavenger hunt and a virtual campfire with some entertaining campfire songs.
For Kyle’s Eagle Project, he led scouts while following strict Covid guidelines to install a sign at the entrance of Intervale Elementary School in Parsippany. He previously attended Intervale School and kept a strong relationship with the principal thereafter. After several meetings, they came up with the idea to install a sign at the entrance to create a safe environment for the students who walk home and attend the school. He appreciated the encouragement and guidance from his Eagle coach, John Worthington, Parsippany Town Officials, and help from fellow scouts and family.
Kyle has graduated from Parsippany Hills High School, where he played soccer for all four years and led the JV team as captain during his junior year. He will be attending the County College of Morris where he will be majoring in Criminal Justice to earn an associate’s degree and continuing on to achieve a bachelor’s degree.
Kyle hopes to continue to live by the Scout Oath and Law and always live by the lessons and leadership the Troop and Scouting have taught him. He plans to pass that on for generations to come.
Kyle earned 23 Merit Badges: Bird Study, Camping*, Citizenship in the Community*, Citizenship in the Nation*, Citizenship in the World*, Communications*, Cooking*, Cycling*, Emergency Preparedness*, Environmental Science*, Family Life*, Fingerprinting, First Aid*, Hiking*, Kayaking, Leatherwork, Personal Fitness*, Personal Management*, Pets, Rifle Shooting, Small-Boat Sailing, Soil and Water Conservation, and Swimming. (Note: *Eagle Required)
Evan Thomas Vojta
Evan Thomas Vojta
Evan began his Scouting journey in Pack 5, where he started as a Webelos Scout. He participated in activities such as the pinewood derby, camping trips, and outings with local Boy Scout troops. Evan earned his Arrow of Light and crossed over to Troop 173 in 5th grade. After attending summer camp with the troop and participating in the Dan Beard program, he decided Scouting was something he wanted to continue. Throughout his Scouting journey, Evan has been given guidance by Den Leader Charles Ferentinos and Scoutmasters Les Wu and Michael Catapano.
While in Troop 173, Evan served in many different leadership positions including Den Chief, Instructor, Troop Guide, Assistant Patrol Leader, and Patrol Leader. Evan enjoyed his time as a Troop Guide the most since he was able to help younger scouts complete requirements and advance in rank. During his scouting experience, Evan accumulated 73 camping nights and earned the National Outdoor Award for camping. He attended Troop 173 “Big Trips” and enjoyed participating in several Klondike derbies. He also completed 114 hours of community service through events such as Pedals for Progress, Scouting for Food, and assisting his fellow scouts on various Eagle Projects. In addition, Evan completed Catholic Scouting’s Pope Pius XII five-step unit program, and in March of 2018, he received the Pope Pius XII emblem from Bishop Serratelli. Evan also attended the National Youth Leadership Training held by the Patriot’s Path Council in the summer of 2018.
For his Eagle Project, Evan led friends, family, and members of his troop to remove an old, deteriorated bridge on his neighborhood association’s property and replace it with a walking path and culvert. The previous bridge, which was made using tree logs, was rotted, and the mulch that was put between the logs to create a flat walking path had eroded away, making it unsafe to cross. The new walking path and culvert have made the area safer to cross while still allowing water to flow through the area. Evan chose this project because he has been a part of the Glacier Hills Association for many years and wanted to give back to them.
Evan attended the Morris County School of Technology, Animal Science Academy, where he participated in the Peer Leadership Program his junior year. His senior year, he took classes at the County College of Morris however classes were mostly remote due to Covid-19 pandemic restrictions. He returned to his home school, Parsippany Hills High School, through all 4 years of high school to play trombone in the PHHS Vikings Marching Band and Jazz Band and was a member of the swim team. During his senior year, he held the position of section leader in the marching band and was appointed captain of the swim team. Evan has also been a member of the Glacier Hills Summer Swim team since 2013. He will be attending the University of New Haven in the fall where he will be studying Computer Science and participating in the Chargers Marching Band.
Evan is appreciative of all that he has gained through his years in Boy Scouts. He encourages younger scouts to take advantage of the opportunities and experiences they can acquire through scouting.
Evan earned 22 merit badges: Camping*, Citizenship in the Community*, Citizenship in the Nation*, Citizenship in the World*, Cooking*, Communication*, Electronics, Environmental Science, Family Life, Fingerprinting, First Aid*, Geology, Kayaking, Leatherwork, Lifesaving*, Metalwork, Personal Fitness*, Personal Management*, Shotgun Shooting, Space Exploration, Swimming* and Weather. (Note: *Eagle Required)
Troop 173 was chartered by the Sedgefield Civic Association in 1957. Yet from the beginning, Troop 173 has included boys from all over Morris County in its programs. While most of our members come from the area of Parsippany from Lake Parsippany to Powder Mill and across the Township, we have had members as far away as Succasunna and Randolph.
Boy Scouts of America Troop 173 Eagle Scout Honor Roll includes Norman Schofield, Jr., Michael Gottschalk, James Searing, Geoffrey Brown, John Chervenak, Guy Corbett, Tim Corbett, Robert Burney, Juan Correa, Richard Lauber, Tim Roche, Christopher Callahan, Thomas Cook, Stephan Pirylis, Brian Stewart, Patrick Roche, Edward Chiorazzi. Brian Pomarlen, Simon Healey, Keith Henderlong, David Chezem, Alex Lin, Robert Strechay, Jr., John Oleske, Daniel Strechay, Joseph Strechay, Kevin Smithers, Joseph Stevens, James Ward, Jason Viglione, Michael DeGuarde, Michael Smith, Tim Foster, Christopher Malcolm, Mark Viglione, Gary Hwang, William Barcliffe IV, Jonathan Cook, Daniel Aguanno, Anthony Valvano, Eric Kratz, David Kratz, Thomas Corigliano, David Kinskey-Lebeda, Ryan Diggle, Mike Fulton, Dan Fulton, Brian Galley, Shane Moravsik, Paul Rossnagel, Jesse Garbarino, Shay Grabinsky, Sean Galley, Matthew Breeman, Ryan Barwick, Dylan Grabinsky, John Stretavski, Brendan Barwick, Eric Galley, Bobby Ebel, Sean Michie, Michael Ludwig, Matthew Luther, Chris Gardner, Chris Worthington, Cameron Boone, Daniel Metcalf, Rishi Konkesa, Noah Munn, Erik Darling, Thomas Catapano, Daniel Corcoran, Colin Aguesseau, David Dodd III, Michael Gaudio, Galen Wu, Timothy Metcalf. David Albin, Ryan Porcelli, Jack Summa, Anthony Paterno, Chris Neumann, Alex Geddes, David Sinchi, Kyle Cipkins, Anli Liu, Joseph Messana, Evan Vojta, Matthew Sinchi, Sreemanth Meka, Dylan Franz, and Jacob Kaplan.
PARSIPPANY — Residents are invited to participate in the NJ Cornhole Festival on Saturday, August 14. The festival will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at 1515 Route 10 East.
MegaBite Events and Jersey Club Sports are combining both summer staples into one event. There will be over 14 food trucks, live music, activates for kids and adults … and the opportunity to put your cornhole skills to the test for cash and prizes.
Participation information:
Competitive Division: $90.00 per team (2 beer tickets included), $115.00 Day of Tournament
Backyard Division: $60.00 per team, $80.00 Day of Tournament
The Competitive Division will be playing for a prize pool of $2500. Guaranteed Payout for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place teams. (1st- $1500, 2nd- $600, 3rd- $400)
Double elimination tournament. Round robin pool play where teams are guaranteed 4 games to determine seeding into double-elimination bracket play.
Prizes for the Backyard Division will include 2 sets of the boards for 1st place and 2nd place will win two sets of bags.
Bring your lawn chair….your blanket and our 4-legged family members!
MORRIS COUNTY — Shaw, Smith, and John Krickus held a successful fundraiser at The Mansion in Mountain Lakes on Tuesday, August 10.
There was lots of great conversation, company, and fun, and many other friends at the “Summer Reception ’21” for the Keep Morris Strong campaign.
Summer Reception '21
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Olivia Cohen, Josh Cohen, Esq. and Town of Boonton Council Member Ward 3 Joseph Bock, Esq.
Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling and Morris County Commissioner Doug Cabana
State Senator Anthony Bucco and Ronald DeFilippis, CPA
Commissioner John Krickus, Michael Patrick Carroll, Commissioner Director Deborah Smith, Senator Anthony Bucco, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn and Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw
Laurie Bogart, Senator Anthony Bucco, and Grace Paris
Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen with Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi and Parsippany Council Candidate Justin Musella
Luke Ferrante with Morris County Sheriff James Gannon
Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling, Debra Casha and Barbara Dawson
Robert Tovo, Cynthia Shaw and Stephen Shaw
Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw, Commissioner John Krickus and Deputy Director Deborah Smith
Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen with Deputy Commissioner Deborah Smith
Stephen Shaw with Luke Ferrante
Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Michael dePierro, his wife Delores, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr.
Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi and Luke Ferrante
Stephen H. Shaw
Stephen H. Shaw is a lifelong resident of New Jersey and has lived in Morris County for more than five decades. He is serving his first term on the board and was elected by his peers on January 4, 2021, to be Commissioner Director for 2021.
He also chairs the county’s Capital Budget and Facilities Review Committee and the Strategic Planning Advisory Committee, which has been key to Morris County retaining its AAA financial rating throughout the pandemic. He is a voting member of the County College of Morris and Morris County School of Technology Boards of School Estimate and liaison to the County Public Works.
Commissioner Shaw moved back to his hometown of Mountain Lakes 22 years ago and became active in public service, was elected to the borough council for 12 years, and was selected by his peers as mayor for three of those years.
He was a member of the Mountain Lakes Planning Board for seven years and was named “Mountain Lakes Police Citizen of the Year” in 2012. He also served his community as a leader of the Vestry of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Mountain Lakes.
Commissioner Shaw was a member and Vice-Chair of the Morris County Open Space Trust Fund Committee, assisting in the preservation of the Giralda Farms Preserve at Loantaka Brook Reservation in Chatham Township with a $10 million Morris County Open Space grant.
Professionally, Commissioner Shaw owns and operates a small family contracting business and has been president of his local and state builder’s trade association.
He is a graduate of New Jersey Institute of Technology; Newark College of Engineering, with a BS in Civil Engineering; and in 2006 was named their “Outstanding Alumnus.” In addition, he is a licensed New Jersey real estate agent, a licensed private pilot, is married, and has two adult children and one grandchild.
Deborah Smith
Deborah Smith joined the board on January 3, 2016, and she is now serving her second, three-year term. She served as Director last year and was elected by her peers on January 4, 2021, to lead the board as Commissioner Deputy Director for a new year.
She also is chair of the County Budget Committee and is a voting member of the Insurance Fund Commission, and is a liaison to the County Administration and Finance departments.
Previously, Commissioner Smith served on the Denville Council for 20 years, with two years as Council President and two years as the Council’s Planning Board Member. She also served on the Denville Zoning Board before her Council tenure.
Commissioner Smith has long served her community, volunteering for many community activities. She was the Township Council’s liaison to the Denville Public Library, senior citizens’ organizations, the local historical society, fire department, and many other groups.
While serving on the Denville Council she cast the key vote that prevented potential development and led to the eventual acquisition and preservation of 420 pristine acres of former Jersey City watershed land, a site now named Jonathan Woods.
A graduate of Long Island University in Brooklyn, N.Y. with a BS in Mathematics and a Masters in Counseling, she received a Certified Financial Planning degree from Adelphi University, completed a Certificate in Municipal Government from Rutgers, and participated in the CTW Excellence in Public Service Series.
Commissioner Smith had careers in market and media research with AC Nielsen and Simmons Market Research Bureau, worked in financial markets as a stockbroker and commodity broker, and was an advertising director for a New Jersey rehabilitation magazine, before starting a 25-year-career with Dun & Bradstreet as a Key Accounts Manager. In November 2014, Commissioner Smith retired from D&B.
Commissioner Smith resides in Denville with her husband Steven, a small business owner in Randolph.
John Krickus
John Krickus is serving his second, three-year term on the board. He is a member of the Budget Committee and the Strategic Planning Advisory Committee that has been key to maintaining the County’s AAA finance rating during the pandemic. He also is a liaison to the Morris County Improvement Authority and a voting member of the County College of Morris and Morris County School of Technology Boards of School Estimate.
During his first term on the board, Commissioner Krickus served on the budget committee that reduced county property taxes and prioritized investing in county infrastructure, including doubling the mileage of county roads that were repaved annually.
Previously, he served on the Washington Township Committee for 12 years, including three years as Mayor.
While serving on the Washington Township Committee, he was active in preserving 4,000 acres of farmland and some 14,000 acres of open space, which helped maintain the rural and historic character of the Long Valley and Schooleys Mountain sections of Washington Township.
Commissioner Krickus served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves and is a graduate of Drew University with a BA in Economics and Political Science. He received his MBA from Lehigh University and was a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in New Jersey. He is employed as a product manager working in business information services.
Born and raised in Madison, he now lives in Long Valley with his wife Carolyn and daughters Kelly and Casey.
Vote for Shaw, Smith and Krickus on Tuesday, November 2.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany filmmaker Bob Messinger received multiple film and script awards at last week’s annual AOF Megafest. The weeklong, Las Vegas-based film festival combines 13 niche events in a single Megafest.
Messinger’s most recent project, a one-hour documentary about the emotional impact of COVID-19 and quarantine, won three awards, including best documentary at two of the events and best documentary editing in another. The film was also nominated for best overall film editing at AOF.
Titled “LOCKDOWN: The Emotional Impact of COVID-19 and Quarantine,” the film delves into the short- and long-term psychological consequences of the pandemic and resulting shelter-in-place orders.
“According to the Well Being Trust, an additional 75,000 people could die due to what they call coronavirus despair,” says Messinger. He believes that the emotional impact on individuals and families is an exceptionally under-reported aspect of the pandemic.
The film includes interviews with noted mental health professionals such as nationally recognized psychophysiology expert and TED speaker Dr. Kim Gorgens; president of the Eastern Psychological Association Dr. Amy Learmonth; and a host of people weathering the crisis.
Backed by an abundance of documented research and interviews, the film explores the categories of people who are most apt to be affected emotionally by the pandemic and quarantine. Not only does the film chronicle the anticipated emotional effects of the crisis, but it also provides professional recommendations on how to handle the resulting anxiety.
Messinger researched, wrote, and produced the film from his home office in the Lake Hiawatha section of Parsippany while in quarantine, conducting interviews over Zoom. The film has been screened at numerous festivals worldwide, including the Garden State Film Festival in March.
Screenplay and video wins Messinger’s short scripts, “Tiger Mom” and “Another Time, Another Place,” also took top honors in two Megafest screenwriting events.
“Tiger Mom” is the story of a mother and troubled teenage daughter who find a common bond during a hostage situation in a small-town comic book store, and it is scheduled to go into production later this year.
“Another Time, Another Place” is a political thriller in which past and present collide in the world of a young White House staffer. In his acceptance speech, Messinger described the script as a “cautionary tale of what almost came to pass on January 6.” The script was named “From the Heart Productions’ Hot Films in the Making List for 2020.”
Messinger’s music video, “Hey You,” also won the best music video award in another Megafest event. Written and performed by Lake Hopatcong singer-songwriter Jenni Spiro, the tune is the closing song in another Messinger film, “Over the Line,” which is currently completing its festival run.
About the AOF Megafest Now in its seventeenth year, the AOF Megafest has evolved into a weeklong festival of top-quality, independent films encompassing 13 different niches, including action, news, traditional Hollywood film, conquering disabilities, stunts, social and political impact, inspirational and new themes, international storytelling, inspirational stories, young storytellers and more.
The event has attracted personalities such as Daniel Baldwin (one of this year’s winners), Talia Shire, Mark Ruffalo, Ron Perlman, Michael Paré, and others.
Locally produced films In addition to his own projects with his production company, Where’s the Lake Productions, Messinger collaborates with other companies and producers. He currently serves as associate producer on director Cedric Hill’s feature, “Two Peas in a Pod.”
Most of Messinger’s work is shot in the Parsippany area. In fact, his short film, “Over the Line,” was shot entirely in his Lake Hiawatha home using green-screen technology, which was later transformed into an abandoned warehouse setting using computer-generated technology.
Where’s the Lake Productions got its name from Messinger’s location in Parsippany.
“People are always stopping to ask us where the lake is,” says Messinger.
PARSIPPANY — My last experience with Vietnamese cuisine dates to the late 60s, early 70s, at a time when I was able to indulge in that Country’s fine food thanks to a free, all-expense-paid trip, graciously provided courtesy of the US government. Thank you to the President, “Tricky Dick” Nixon, for that thoughtful consideration.
Patrick Minutillo enjoying dinner
A visit to Phở Bình Dương, located right off Route 46 West, in Parsippany’s Arlington Plaza Shopping Mall, formerly the site of Saigon Pho, seemed like just the place to reacquaint me with this once exotic cuisine, an integral part of the diverse and complicated culture that is Vietnam. The major influences on Vietnamese cuisine initially developed from neighboring countries, particularly China, as far back as the Han Dynasty, and more recently France, which colonized Vietnam in the late 1800s and remained there until the 1950s. Through it all, scarred by invasions and other hardships, Vietnam prevailed and now lays claim to some of the tastiest, most aromatic, complex, and healthiest food in the world.
Phở Bình Dương references Phở, a soup dish consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat or chicken, and considered Vietnam’s signature dish, and basically a street food; and Bình Dương, a relatively new, emerging, and modern city (Vietnam’s Shiny New City) situated in the Southern part of the Country and once home to owner Quang Tran. What is not unusual, like many Countries, regional cuisine can be quite different between the North, Central, and Southern Provinces of Vietnam.
The relatively newly owned Phở Bình Dương, which changed ownership in 2018, appears from the exterior, despite a welcoming façade, to be just another nondescript storefront business, hardly discernable from the various other similar storefronts lined up along the east side of a large shopping mall. On entry, after being genuinely welcomed at the check-in desk by a very congenial hostess, I found myself immediately seated in a very well-lighted, very clean, spacious, modern-looking, nicely designed, upscale dining room.
Roasted Quails (Chim Cút Rôti)
The ambiance was attractive throughout; warm, cozy, and comfortable, with multiple wooden tables thoughtfully arranged throughout the dining room, which can comfortably seat up to 130 diners. The decorative wooden beam ceiling, tasteful colorful décor, and stylish lighting feature surely enhance your dining experience. By the way, Phở Bình Dương is BYOB, and the prices are very reasonable. I brought along some Bia Saigon beer which went perfectly with the feast that was to come.
Pan Fried Crispy Crepe (Bánh Xèo)
The service was top-notch. Our waiter, Mike, was prompt, attentive, friendly, and helpful. It was clear to see that this restaurant puts an emphasis on customer satisfaction. After speaking with the owner, Quang Tran, I found that this is in fact his business philosophy. Mr. Tran, who I found to be an extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and pleasant man, was nice enough to join us at our table where he related that he came to America in 1979 as one of the “Vietnamese Boat People,” which refers to those who during a humanitarian crisis fled Vietnam by boat and ship following the chaotic end of the Vietnam War in 1975. He learned to speak English (perfectly I might add) and became a classically trained Chef, eventually bringing his culinary knowledge and skills to Bloomfield, where he was a partner in the first Phở Bình Dương restaurant. When I complimented his cooking skills, a modest Mr. Tran, wanted to make sure that his Executive Chef, Vu Cao, was credited with his masterful culinary skills as well. Judging by the food they make an outstanding team.
After looking over the wide-ranging menu, I and my guests chose a selection of appetizers to share, including the Fried Spring Rolls (Chả giò), Crispy Fried Squid (Mực chiên đòn), Pan Fried Crispy Crepe (Bánh Xèo), and Roasted Quails (Chim Cút Rôti). One dish was better than the other! The Spring Rolls were perfectly fried; crispy, juicy, sweet, and savory. The moist and juicy Quail were perfectly roasted and served with caramelized onions (even tried eating some of the small bones as is customary). Fried Squid was excellent, nice mouth-sized pieces of rich, buttery, battered, fried, and sautéed squid, served with a delicious dipping sauce of Thai sweet chili. Finally, the Pan-Fried Crepe, filled with shrimp, mung beans, and bean sprouts, which everyone agreed was delicious. The yin and yang of Asian cuisine were evident throughout with the brilliant balancing of all the different tastes, colors, and textures that were obvious in all the various dishes. I should also mention the appealing presentation of every dish certainly enhanced the entire experience.
Fried Spring Rolls (Chả giò)
A couple of us then started off with a traditional Phở, which is served in beef broth with a side of fresh bean sprouts, basil. I went with the Rare Eye of Round and Brisket Phở (Phở Tái Nạm). I also ordered the small bowl, which appeared to me to be a giant portion. The Phở could easily serve as a meal by itself. It came with a side of bean sprouts, basil, lime & jalapeno pepper, and other garnishings and sauces. Lots of fresh, herbs, vegetables, and other aromatics in this cuisine. The Phở was full of contrasting textures and flavors; the chewy rice noodles, mouth-watering beef, crispy sprouts, and other herbs and spices made for a truly delicious meal. I could see why Phở is so loved in Vietnam and is becoming so popular in America.
Grilled Pork Chop Pho
For an entrée, I ordered the spicy Sauté Beef with Lemongrass, Onion, and Bell Pepper (Bò Xào Sả Ớt), which came with steamed Jasmine white rice. Again, the beef was tender, tasty, savory, and perfectly blended in with the rest of the dish, and cooked in a house-made sweet/savory sate sauce. Plus, the portions here are large, so be prepared to take some home. This dish was a home run. By now, even though I was more than satiated, Mr. Tran brought out a complimentary serving of Shaken Beef Cubes, sautéed with onions, and deglazed with butter. An absolute mouth-watering taste sensation and definitely on my “must order” list for the next visit.
Sauté Beef with Lemongrass, Onion, and Bell Pepper (Bò Xào Sả Ớt)
Not wanting to leave without trying out one of their desserts we all had the Three Colors Dessert (Chè Ba Màu), a colorful treat with mung bean, red bean, jelly, coconut milk, and crushed ice. Cool, creamy, refreshing, and a delightful way to bring this fantastic meal to a conclusion. First time I ever had this, and I would not hesitate to order this spectacular dessert again.
From my visit, I learned that Vietnamese food is a lot more than Phở and spring rolls. The abundant variation and balance of tastes and textures in this cuisine are amazing. I was not aware of what I was missing. Thank you, Quang Tran, Vu Cao, Mike, and the staff at Phở Bình Dương for a great meal and a fun evening. For those of you who already enjoy Vietnamese cuisine, you want to try out Phở Bình Dương if you have not done so already, and for those of you who are looking for your next great dining adventure Phở Bình Dương just might be the place for you.
“The Italians and Spanish, the Chinese and Vietnamese see food as part of a larger, more essential and pleasurable part of daily life. Not as an experience to be collected or bragged about – or as a ritual like filling up a car – but as something else that gives pleasure, like sex or music, or a good nap in the afternoon.” Anthony Bourdain (1956-2018)
Phở Bình Dương Vietnamese Restaurant, 744 Route 46 West (in Arlington Plaza), Parsippany. Dine-In, Take Out, Delivery (Grubhub), BYOB. Closed on Monday. Ample Parking. (973) 794-6710 and (973) 794-6711. www.phobinhduong.com
The interior
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, August 2021. Click here to view.
PARSIPPANY — Yashi Kumar, Lake Hiawatha, has been honored as one of the brightest students in the world by The Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY).
Kumar, a student at Central Middle School, was honored for their exceptional performance on the SAT, ACT, or similar assessment taken as part of the CTY Talent Search. CTY uses above-grade-level testing to identify advanced students from around the world and provide a clear picture of their true academic abilities. Kumar was one of nearly 19,000 students from 84 countries who joined CTY in the 2020-21 Talent Search year.
Less than 20 percent of CTY Talent Search participants qualified for CTY High Honors Awards. Honorees also qualified for CTY’s online and summer programs, through which bright students can form a community of engaged learners with other bright students from around the world.
“We are thrilled to celebrate these students,” said Virginia Roach, CTY’s executive director. “In a year that was anything but ordinary, their love of learning shined through, and we are excited to help cultivate their growth as scholars and citizens throughout high school, college, and beyond.” There are more than 15,500 enrollments in CTY Online Programs courses each year. In addition, CTY’s in-person Summer Programs for bright students are offered at about 20 sites in the United States and Hong Kong.
About The Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth
A global leader in gifted education since 1979, CTY is focused on recognizing academic talent in exceptional K-12 students and supporting their growth with courses, services, and resources specifically designed to meet their needs. CTY draws students from 50 states and 84 countries worldwide. CTY provides more than $4 million in financial aid to students. For more information about the CTY Talent Search click here.
From my visit, I learned that Vietnamese food is a lot more than Phở and spring rolls. The abundant variation and balance of tastes and textures in this cuisine are amazing. I was not aware of what I was missing. Thank you, Quang Tran, Vu Cao, Mike, and the staff at Phở Bình Dương for a great meal and a fun evening. For those of you who already enjoy Vietnamese cuisine, you want to try out Phở Bình Dương if you have not done so already, and for those of you who are looking for your next great dining adventure Phở Bình Dương just might be the place for you.
