LIVINGSTON — On Tuesday, May 4, Team Barberio held its first $900 per-person fundraiser at Nero’s Grille in Livingston. The gathering featuring a prime rib dinner included Parsippany’s former Township Attorney John Inglesino, Ryan D. Graham, Director of Business Development for Fairview Insurance Agency, and dozens of other professionals who served the township under Barberio during his initial eight years as mayor. Fairview Insurance handled Parsippany’s Employee Benefits.
In the Republican Primary to be held on Tuesday, June 8, Team Barberio which includes Barberio for Mayor and council candidates Frank Neglia and Deborah Orme will face off against mayoral candidate Lou Valori and his team of council candidates Justin Musella and Gary Martin. Also running for council is former Council Vice President Robert Peluso.
In 2017, Peluso challenged Barberio in the primary and lost. Then in the general election, Barberio lost to the current Mayor Michael Soriano, by approximately 800 votes.
The winner of the Republican primary will face off Soriano and his council candidates Cori Herbig and Judy Hernandez during the General Election in November.
Since leaving office, Barberio was the Business Administrator in Englewood Cliffs. His reappointment was rejected in 2019 by the council, which was made up of five Democrats and just one Republican.
He then surfaced in Hunterdon County, where he is the administrator in two towns – Tewksbury and Lebanon. He splits his time between both. Ironically Justin Marchetta, of the law firm Inglesino, Webster, Wyciskala & Taylor was appointed Township Attorney in 2020.
As for the mayor’s race in general, former county freeholder John Cesaro was at one time considered a candidate. But that ended when Cesaro was charged by the state Attorney General’s Office with accepting bribes from a “cooperating witness” who wanted legal work if indeed Cesaro became mayor. That case remains pending.
Back in early February 2020 current Parsippany Mayor Michael Soriano gave his “state of the township” address. It wasn’t remarkably divisive, although the mayor did criticize the tax policies of Barberio. He said that when the GOP ran the show, property tax increases were avoided in 2013 and 2017, two election years. But this had nothing to do with fiscal prudence, just politics. Soriano asserted that artificially avoiding increases in election years just means the bill has to be paid later.
“Barberio held the first event as a mayoral candidate is a high-dollar fundraiser located in Essex County. It makes me wonder how passionate he is about taking this seat back from the Mayor he lost it to in 2017,” said Robert Blake in an email to Parsippany Focus. “Parsippany businesses are hurting as a result of the pandemic. We have a multitude of options right here in the township that would suit any type of political event. Hosting his kickoff event in Livingston is a slap in the face to the hardworking business owners of Parsippany who have been hanging by a thread for over a year now.”
Parsippany Focus reached out to Barberio but he didn’t answer our questions.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA proves every day that there is no age limit on eating healthy, getting active, and being social. May is Older Americans Month and the Y is emphasizing the importance of being active and involved, no matter where or when you are in life. All individuals are encouraged to develop behaviors that are crucial to healthy aging, including healthy eating, increasing physical activity, and social interaction – especially adults over age 50.
The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is a community organization focused on healthy living, social responsibility, and youth development. In fact, at the Y “older adults” are not called “seniors”, but rather are referred to as “active agers”. Adults 50 years and older currently make up more than 30 percent of the U.S. population, and will soon represent 45 percent of all Americans. Here in the Morris County area, adults 50 and older make up 41 percent of the population. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that adults 50 and older have a 70 percent chance of developing at least one chronic disease. While these numbers seem daunting, the good news is that making small lifestyle changes that include increasing physical activity, eating healthier, and staying active socially can help older adults live better.
“Due to COVID-19’s potential effect on our older members, we know that many have been staying home for their health. As the community reopens, we know that health is top of mind as people return to their regular routines,” said Alex Martinez, President, and CEO of the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA. “If you need help, support or just a place to get started, community-based organizations such as the Y provide the needed guidance to help older adults age well.”
The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA offers many ways for older adults to live healthier lives, including six evidence-based health initiatives as part of its Chronic Disease Prevention Program. One of them is Enhance® Fitness, a 16-week evidence-based physical activity program proven to increase the physical, mental, and social functioning of older adults – particularly those with arthritis.
According to the CDC, 52 million Americans have arthritis, including about half of all adults over age 65. Almost 23 million Americans report that arthritis limits their physical activity. Research has shown that low-intensity physical activity performed on a regular basis can reduce pain, improve functioning, elevate mood, and delay the onset of disability.
Participants in Enhance® Fitness attend three, one-hour classes per week taught by a certified Y instructor. Classes feature proven aerobic, strength training, balance, and flexibility exercises that are safe, effective, and modifiable for a variety of fitness levels. After four months, fitness assessments are conducted to track participants’ progress. In addition to physical benefits, the program provides a fun, social atmosphere that fosters relationships between program participants.
This program has been popular beyond anyone’s expectations. Those who have taken these classes were some of the first individuals back to the Y when doors re-opened last fall.
In addition to the arthritis program, the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA offers five additional Chronic Disease Prevention Programs. They are the Cardiac Care Maintenance Program for individuals who have recovered from a cardiac incident; Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program for individuals who
have Hypertension; the MS One-Step Program for individuals who have Multiple Sclerosis; the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Program for individuals with cancer or who are cancer survivors; and the Diabetes Prevention Program for individuals diagnosed with Prediabetes.
Most of the Chronic Disease Prevention Programs are offered at no or low cost, and most do not require a Y membership. For more information on these programs please visit the Y’s website at www.lakelandhillsymca.com or call Anthony Shovlowsky at (973) 507-7040.
You’re Invited: The Y is inviting everyone from the community to participate in their free outdoor “Senior” Health and Wellness event on Wednesday, May 26 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sponsored by Sunrise Senior Living at Mountain Lakes and Unicity Senior Advisors, the Y is putting the FUN in fitness. Blood pressure checks, fitness classes, memory games, and more! Additionally, an ice cream truck will be there with free ice cream, a 90th birthday celebration for Y members turning 90 years old, and enter to win a free Older Adult membership, whether you are a current member or guest!
While the CDC recommends that older adults get a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate exercise or strength training per day, less than one out of three American’s 65 and older meet these guidelines. Swimming and aquatic programs may reduce the risk of muscle loss as one age and reduce the risk of osteoporosis as well as improve cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, and mental well-being. The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA offers aquatic fitness classes in addition to their slate of lessons and programs.
For nearly 60 years, Older Americans Month has been observed to recognize older Americans and their contributions to our communities. Led by the Administration for Community Living’s Administration on Aging, every May offers the opportunity to hear from, support, and celebrate our nation’s elders. For more information on how your family can live a healthy, active life, visit www.lakelandhillsymca.com or call Rosemary Linder Day at rosemaryl@lhymca.com.
As always, no other organization can impact as many, as powerfully, as the Y does every day.
PARSIPPANY — Town hall announced that it will reopen its doors to the public on Monday, Monday, May 24 for regular business. Town Hall and all municipal buildings will be available to residents for in-person business beginning that same day. All visitors must continue to wear a mask, practice social distancing, avoid crowding in the hallways, and wash hands whenever possible.
This announcement comes as a response to the State of New Jersey’s announcement of the removal of gathering percentage limits for indoor business, outdoor business, and places of worship.
According to the Morris County Office of Emergency Management, any business, whether indoors or outdoors, that is subject to a percentage capacity limitation will instead be guided by the rule regarding six feet of distance between persons or groups of persons.
“I’m happy to welcome residents back to our buildings,” said Mayor Michael Soriano. “It’s been a long time coming. We’re 14 months into this pandemic, so we all know the drill. With the help of our residents continuing to be safe and smart, this is a major step in getting our township, our business, and our community back to normal.”
Previously, Town Hall and other municipal buildings were closed to the public, and only open to those with appointments. This will no longer be the case, and residents can access these buildings provided that residents continue to wear masks and practice social distancing while on the premises.
Town Hall is located at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard in Parsippany. For more information, please contact the Mayor’s Action Center at (973) 263-7262.
PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany will be holding a free food distribution on Saturday, May 15.
The goal of the effort, taking place from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Parsippany PAL Youth Center, 33 Baldwin Road, is to help relieve “the financial strain put on families during this pandemic,” said Laura Wohland, Club President.
They will be distributing over 100 boxes containing up to 45 pounds of canned food, fresh produce, and groceries. Kiwanis Club will be purchasing 40,000 pounds of food to be distributed throughout the area. Kiwanis Club raises funds to purchase the food.
“Our food distribution for the needy is focused on sustaining good nutrition, health, and -most of all – human dignity by providing a means for the individual to meet their full potential and to silence the pain hunger brings,” said New Jersey Kiwanis District 9 Lt. Gov. Frank Cahill.
At the food give-away, recipients will stay in their cars. “Drive up, and we will put the food right in the vehicle,” said Wohland, noting that all recipients will be required to register in advance to make sure we have a sufficient supply of food. Register at www.kiwanishelps.org.
Other area Kiwanis Clubs will also join in on the food distribution. Other locations include Roxbury, Rockaway, Dover, Boonton, Jefferson, South Orange, Maplewood, and Bridgewater.
“This process helps ensure the continued health and safety of our volunteers and makes the entire process efficient and effective during the distribution of food.”
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is made up of volunteers and does not have a paid staff. The members “are committed to providing an efficient and effective system for distributing food to alleviate hunger in our community, one family at a time,” said Cahill
The organization wants “to ensure that all children have the opportunity to lead healthy, successful lives,” Wohland said its members “believe that by helping one child,” you help the world.
For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Seasons 52, a fresh grill and wine bar, is opening in Hanover Township on Thursday, May 14. Featuring seasonal ingredients and an ever-changing menu, the restaurant offers guests the freedom to enjoy its balanced approach to food and wine.
The Seasons 52 kitchen specializes in oak-fire grilling and brick-oven roasting to be flavorful and light, with all dishes fewer than 595 calories. Menu items are handcrafted using 100 percent fresh, never frozen, whole produce, and carefully sourced meats and seafood. Simply prepared dishes to encourage guests to feel good about their choices at every course, with options including an assortment of flatbreads, such as Pesto Chicken and Lobster & Fresh Mozzarella, as well as freshly prepared entrees, like Cedar Plank-Roasted Salmon, Caramelized Grilled Sea Scallops and Wood-Grilled Filet Mignon. Mini Indulgence desserts offer the perfect amount to satisfy a sweet tooth, with selections including Cookies ‘N’ Cream and Raspberry Chocolate Chip Cannoli.
The restaurant’s menu changes four times a year to offer ingredients sourced at peak freshness and flavor. Upon opening, Seasons 52 on Dryden Way will feature its spring menu, with seasonally inspired offerings such as Kona-Crusted Lamb Loin, Buffalo Cauliflower Flatbread, and a Coconut Cream Pie Mini Indulgence.
The Wine Bar pours from an award-winning list designed to complement the menu and allow for discovery, with a service style that helps guests pair the right wines with their dining experience. Offerings include acclaimed labels by the bottle and glass in six and nine-ounce pours. Guests have the freedom to explore new styles with “Drink Them Before They’re Famous” – a collection of wines from up-and-coming producers. In addition, guests can enjoy seasonal rotating wine flights, currently highlighting pours by Paul Hobbs and the Caymus family of wines. The Wine Bar also serves cocktails made with fresh ingredients for exceptional taste. Signature cocktails include Cucumber Basil Smash and Rosé Lemonade, as well as the spring menu exclusive Strawberry Basil Martini. A lively Happy Hour offered Monday through Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. features $6.00 glasses of wine and $12.00 wine and flatbread pairings.
Seasons 52 Parsippany is located at 1402 Route 10 at Dryden Way. The new restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Sundays, Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Reservations are recommended, but not required. Indoor dining and outdoor seating are available, in addition to takeout.
The restaurant is hiring experienced hospitality professionals to staff the new restaurant. Roles to be filled include servers, bartenders, and hosts, among others. To find more information and submit an application click here.
More information about the restaurant’s safety commitments to guests is available on the Seasons 52 website.
ABOUT SEASONS 52 Seasons 52 is a comfortable and stylish fresh grill and wine bar offering a refreshingly balanced approach to dining where guests are free to enjoy, knowing any choice they make is one they’ll feel good about. The menu changes with the season to feature ingredients at their peak, from whole produce that arrives and is kept 100% fresh, never frozen, to carefully sourced meats and pristine seafood. Entrées are oak-fire grilled or brick oven-roasted, without a fryer insight, to be flavorful and naturally lighter, and the Wine Bar pours world-class wines by glass and signature cocktails. Lunch and dinner daily, happy hour Mondays to Thursdays. Click here for more information.
PARSIPPANY — Acting Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker announce the arrest of Jeremy Mayes, 30, of Parsippany Troy-Hills, by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement Unit/Narcotics Task Force.
On May 4, 2021, members of the Narcotics Task Force conducted an operation that resulted in the arrest of Mayes. In addition to the over 250 grams (1/4 kilogram) of cocaine recovered during this investigation, a loaded 9mm handgun, over $9,000 in US currency, hollow-point bullets, two high capacity magazines, and drug distribution paraphernalia were seized.
Mayes has been charged with:
Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) with the Intent to Distribute, in a quantity greater than five ounces, a crime of the first degree.
Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine), in a quantity greater than five ounces, a crime of the first degree.
2 counts – Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) with the Intent to Distribute, in a quantity greater than a one-half ounce or more but less than five ounces, a crime of the second degree.
Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine), in a quantity greater than one-half ounce or more but less than five ounces, a crime of the second degree.
2 counts – Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) with the Intent to Distribute, in a quantity less than one-half ounce, a crime of the third degree.
2 counts – Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine), in a quantity less than one-half ounce, a crime of the third degree.
2 counts – Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine), in a quantity less than one-half ounce, a crime of the third degree.
Possession of a Firearm (.9mm handgun) with a loaded magazine, while in the course of distributing a controlled dangerous substance, a crime of the second degree.
Financial Facilitation of criminal activity (money laundering), a crime of the third degree.
Possession, with the intent to distribute, drug paraphernalia, a crime of the fourth degree.
Acting Prosecutor Carroll commends the Parsippany Troy-Hills Police Department, Long Hill Police Department, Wharton Police Department, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office for assigning personnel to the Narcotics Task Force during this investigation. Additionally, the Morristown Bureau of Police and Morris County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit assisted in this investigation.
Acting Prosecutor Carroll said, “Our Narcotics Task Force has been successful in our covert and overt investigations into for-profit narcotics distributors thanks to the cooperative efforts of our chiefs of police and Sheriff James Gannon, who supply talented Task Force officers. The men and women of our Special Enforcement Unit continue to work through the dangers of handling illicit narcotics, high-risk operations, and the current public health crisis, in our ongoing effort to improve the quality of life in Morris County.”
Acting Prosecutor Carroll recognizes Captain Jan-Michael Monrad and Chief Assistant Prosecutor Bradford Seabury, who command the Special Operations Division, inclusive of the Narcotics Task Force. Assistant Prosecutor Noelle Fiorentino is representing the State in this prosecution.
Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
MORRIS COUNTY — Rotary International District 7475 will host a series of 4 walkathons bringing attention to mental health stigmas on Saturday, May 22.
Rotary has declared District 7475 to be stigma-free as of March 2021. The goal now is to eliminate the stigma associated with mental health and substance use disorders through education and creating public awareness.
Rotary seeks to create open working relationships with its towns and communities to help people overcome the resistance to seeking help and by eliminating the stigma that often makes people feel overwhelmed.
To learn more about how you can support stigma-free, register online and join one of the four, one- mile walks on Saturday, May 22. Free T-shirts to the first 150 who register online at njrotary.org
Locations for the May 22 walkathon are: Denville at Gardner Field from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon; Madison at Ambulance Corp from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon; Clinton at Red Mill Museum from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and Robbinsville at Gazebo at West Town Lake from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon/
PARSIPPANY — As you travel down the full 8/10ths of a mile of North Beverwyck Road, of what is downtown Lake Hiawatha, most people not familiar with the area would easily be deceived into thinking that there is no way that hidden among an unassuming, and quite frankly, an unimpressive row of sporadic little storefronts, there lies a myriad of ethnically diverse, high quality, family-owned culinary gems.
A myriad of ethnically diverse, high quality, family-owned culinary gems
This dining experience took me to the south end of that stretch to yet another relatively small, family-owned, store-front eatery that can easily be considered one of those hidden gems. Churrasco Grill, which has been a staple in Lake Hiawatha since 2005, is well known to many locals for serving delicious, authentic, unique, and flavorful cuisine originating from the beautiful Countries of Argentina and Peru.
Churrasco might be a little place in size but is big on flavor and individualized customer service and care; a genuinely welcoming and friendly venue, complete with a wood charcoal grill, imported from Argentina to maintain the tradition and authenticity of the dishes, as well as a rotisserie oven which together might be considered the stars of the restaurant.
Empanadas
The open kitchen atmosphere, which unfortunately is currently obstructed from full view due to COVID-related protective barriers, will hopefully be enjoyed again in the not-too-distant future; where you be able to watch, and smell, your steak, seafood, or other personal selection being cooked to your personal perfection. Churrasco Grill, snuggled within a row of other storefronts can be easy to pass by if you are unfamiliar with the area, but their eye-catching signage out front helps make it stand out and easy to locate. The interior is classy and nicely decorated, providing a relaxing Latin American ambiance; cozy, casual, warm, and inviting with colorful and attractive South American inspired original oil paintings, all created by the owner’s daughter, Claudia, (who was also our attentive and cordial server) adorning the walls throughout the restaurant. The light from the front windows keeps the interior bright, intimate, and airy, accentuating the limited but well-appointed tables. I should mention that Churrasco is immaculately clean, the tables are well separated, and they ensure that everything is in full compliance with all current health and safety protocols, and it is BYOB. There is a liquor store just a truly short walk away in case you forget to bring along your favorite bottle of vino. Street parking only for this establishment but there is plenty of available spots in that area.
For those hesitant about dining indoors, Churrasco does offer outdoor dining (comedor al aire libre) in a comfortable and nicely decorated enclosed courtyard in the rear of the restaurant. The Courtyard is available, weather permitting, and as of this writing is being thoughtfully decorated with additional tables, plantings, and other decorative items in preparation for our quickly arriving, comfortable outdoor conditions. An exceptionally large, colorful, floral wall mural, again painted by Claudia, highlights the exterior wall and certainly adds to the South American vibe.
Churrasco Grill is a true family affair in every sense of the word. Owner, Juan “Jose” Perez, who everyone knows simply as Jose, enjoys working with his two sons, Juan Jose Jr. and Christopher, and daughter, Claudia, together with running all day-to-day operations of the restaurant. Carmen Perez, Jose’s wife, also prepares all the delicious homemade desserts. It was clear to see Jose’s great pride in his family, and in his restaurant, as he walked me through a requested tour. He was sure to point out Claudia’s artwork, especially a painting called, “Line of Nazca” which hung above our table and is representative of Peruvian ancient culture. Jose also pointed out some intricate decorative cork that he obviously saved from hundreds, if not thousands, of wine bottles to painstakingly create a decorative touch to accentuate his walls. He obviously has a lot more patience than I do.
Shrimp IzaHouse Salad
Jose, a great host, and true gentleman, and a pleasure to talk to, recounted that he was born in the wine-rich province of Mendoza, Argentina, and arrived in American in 1971 speaking little to no English. As many exceptional restauranteurs do, he learned his craft and paid his culinary dues by experiencing and working at many jobs at various restaurants while honing his restaurant and management skills. As a busboy, waiter, short-order cook, he went from a French restaurant to Top of the Sixes, to Rockefeller Center, and even as a short-order cook in a fast-food steak eatery on 42nd Street, all in NYC in the ’70s and ’80s, finally making his way to Lake Hiawatha in 2005.
Ceviche
As our discussion continued, my group ordered some of Churrasco’s most popular appetizers; the Shrimp Iza, Ceviche, House Salad, and Empanadas. The Shrimp Iza; nicely prepared with good size sautéed shrimp with garlic served over a generous bed of baby spinach, along with sides of yuca that were soft and tender on the inside while light and crispy on the outside, exactly right. The 4 homemade baked Empanadas (beef, chicken, and mushroom), which is one serving, were deliciously crispy, crunchy, and loaded with savory, juicy, tasteful fillings. The House Salad offered a bright and fresh presentation of Romaine, cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, while the citrusy taste and spicy flavors of the fresh Ceviche, a true seafood treat, was certainly a star addition to the meal. The portion sizes of each dish were ample and more than adequate for our group to share and enjoy.
Mix Grill (flank steak, sausage, pork loin, chicken breast served with grilled potato and tomato onion salad)
Looking over the menu which offered a nice combination of Argentinian and Peruvian cuisine, it was a tough challenge to decide between the seafood and meat selections. We all eventually went carnivore this evening and ordered the Mix Grill (flank steak, sausage, pork loin, chicken breast served with grilled potato and tomato onion salad) and Churrasco (wood charcoal grilled skirt steak served with potato and vegetables). We all thoroughly enjoyed our meat dishes which were cooked perfectly to our individual and separate specifications; well-seasoned, nicely grilled, tender, moist, juicy, expertly marinated, and savory. Plus, this is a generously sized serving of meat so bring your appetite.
Churrasco (wood charcoal grilled skirt steak served with potato and vegetables)
Obviously, by now I was adequately stuffed but Carmen’s (Jose’s wife) homemade Argentinian and Peruvian desserts await. As we sipped on our Espresso and Cappuccino’s out came the Tiramisu and Alfajores, compliments of Jose. Alfajores, little cakes filled with Dulche de Leche (a thick caramel sauce-like filling) are petite, yet decadent, creamy, crumbly little treats that went particularly well with our coffees. Of course, the Tiramisu (ladyfingers soaked in espresso and rum and laced with creamy mascarpone) is always a winner.
Alfajores
Thanks to Jose and his family for the great meal and sincere hospitality. Nice size portions, reasonable prices, outstanding and friendly service, beautiful ambiance (inside and out). Churrasco should most definitely be on your must-try list of wonderful, local, family-owned and operated restaurants. I certainly would recommend giving it a try. I am confident you will be happy you did.
Tiramisu
As always, please remember to come out and show our support to all our small, independently owned local businesses
Churrasco Grill (Argentine & Peruvian Cuisine) is located at 137 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha. (973) 263-1590. churrascogrillnj.com; Eat-In – Take Out – Catering – Private Parties – B.Y.O.B. Closed Sunday and Monday. Tuesday – Saturday 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Republican Club will be holding a general meeting on Thursday, May 13 at 7:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at Parsippany Rescue and Recovery Building, 100 Centerton Drive. You can always reach out to Robert Quinn by email at raq0915@gmail.com or phone (973) 967-0080.
Annual dues are $15.00 for single; $20.00 for a couple, senior $5.00, and a senior couple $10.00.
MORRIS COUNTY — T.C. McCourt, A.J. Oliver, and Dina Mikulka announced the formation of their joint candidate committee, A Stronger Morris. The committee will be the primary fundraising and messaging vehicle for the Democratic candidates’ campaign for Morris County Commissioner.
T.C. McCourt
Candidates McCourt, Oliver, and Mikulka released the following joint statement:
“Campaigns cost money. A lot of money. And they require an army of volunteers. By forming this committee early, we will be able to maximize our fundraising potential and more effectively build the campaign infrastructure that we will need to win in November.”
“The three of us are running for County Commissioner for some pretty simple reasons. While our opponents think everything is perfect and that there is no room for improvement, we profoundly disagree. We believe Morris County can be better. We believe Morris County can be stronger. Over the course of the next six months, we intend to prove that to the people of Morris County, and give them the opportunity to make a change.”
A Stronger Morris is proud to have Leslye Moya serve as Campaign Chair. Moya is the Political Director of the Morris County Democratic Committee and Secretary of the Morris County Young Democrats. A resident of Butler, Moya previously led the field organization that helped to elect Dover’s first Black and first female Mayor in 2019.
Serving as Treasurer will be Austin Ashley. Ashley has been a resident of Mountain Lakes, where he lives with his wife Laura and their three children, since 2016. He is a former resident of the Borough of New Milford in Bergen County, where he served on the Borough Council from 2011 to 2015.
“We are so proud of the team we’ve assembled thus far. Through Leslye and Austin’s participation, we are two steps closer to victory in November. And as the team grows, so will our potential to win.”
A Stronger Morris is presently interviewing applicants for the position of Campaign Manager, which they intend to fill at the beginning of June.
The campaign will soon announce the details of its upcoming virtual kickoff event.
To find out about the candidates, sign up to volunteer, or make a donation click here. You can also follow A Stronger Morris on Facebook and Instagram.
