Families Enjoy Fun-filled Festivities at 2024 Law Enforcement Night

MORRIS COUNTY — The Annual Law Enforcement Night, jointly hosted by the 200 Club of Morris County, Morris County Sheriff’s Department, and the New Jersey Coalition 4 Education & Positive Choices, proved to be an outstanding success, drawing a crowd that filled the Mennan Arena.

Get Up Close with Law Enforcement Tech: Morris County Sheriff’s Department Exhibits at 2024 Night

With over 100 attendees, the event provided an opportunity to hear from and honor law enforcement representatives from local towns. Attendees had the chance to explore state-of-the-art vehicles, equipment, and an array of captivating merchandise. Both children and parents alike reveled in the festivities.

The NJ Coalition for Education and Positive Choices has gained recognition in Morris County for its numerous initiatives and the valuable information it provides to combat drug and alcohol abuse. The Coalition advocates for introducing children to new activities and promoting substance-free events to boost their self-esteem. Comprising elected officials, law enforcement personnel, educational leaders, and concerned citizens, the Coalition stays current with the latest trends and challenges affecting our children.

Law Enforcement Night brings together officers and police departments from across the state. It offered youngsters a firsthand look at how law enforcement officers positively impact our community.

The array of equipment on display at this event never fails to impress, even adults. Attendees can explore the Morris County Hope One Van, examine various ambulances and emergency vehicles, try on riot gear, handle handcuffs, and engage with the law enforcement community in a fun and engaging atmosphere.”

At the 2024 Law Enforcement Night, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Hanover Township Committeeman Ronald F. Francioli, and Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher unite for a powerful evening of community solidarity.
Florham Park resident Andrew Lanskey with Morris County Sheriff James Gannon
Bill Spadea, NJ101.5, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, and Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher unite for a powerful evening of community solidarity.

Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon and his team were present, engaging with attendees to discuss safety and heroism. Participating towns included Morristown, Madison, Parsippany, Hanover, Morris Plains, East Hanover, Florham Park, and many others. Displays from organizations such as Hope One, Morris County Prosecutors Office, and JBWS added to the event’s richness and diversity.

Morris Plains Patrolman Nicholas Grawehr, Patrolman Joseph Kohl, Morris Plains Chief of Police Michael M. Koroski, District Director Kelli Doucette, from Mikie Sherrill’s Office, and Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr
East Hanover Director of Fire and OEM John Centianni, Patrolman, Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, and Morris County Sheriff James Gannon
Hanover Township Police Officers Jake Crane and Sergeant Bryan Pilipie represent their community with pride at Law Enforcement Night 2024.
Morris County Prosecutors Officers Detective Jermaine Marbley and Detective Matthew Marino
Parsippany Police Officers Remo Delassandro and Paul Levi
Farrell Holleran, Jerry Rota, Suzanne Ceravolo, Joanne DeVito DePalma, and Anthony DePalma, members of the 200 Club of Morris County
Madison Police Department: Corporal Aqunio and Corporal DiRocco
Patrolman Matt Cerrato, Patrolman Joseph Berardinelli, and Patrolman Robert Zimmerman of East Hanover Township stand together in service at Law Enforcement Night 2024.
Florham Park resident Andrew Lansksey, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, and Lieutenant Daniel Bundschuh come together to support law enforcement at the 2024 Law Enforcement Night.
Members of the Morris County Prosecutors Office

This event has a history of fostering relationships and often opens up career possibilities for teenagers who may not have previously considered such a path. Typically, people only encounter law enforcement officers and first responders on their worst days, but this event provides a unique opportunity to interact with them on a very positive note.

Experience the Best: Parsippany Hills Boys Basketball Summer Camp Registration Open

PARSIPPANY — This summer, a Parsippany Hills Boys Basketball camp is set to run for boys in grades 4 through 9.

Scheduled from July 15th to July 19th, the camp takes place at Parsippany Hills High School, running daily from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Leading the camp is Mike Herzenberg, a seasoned 10-year Varsity Head Coach. Secure your spot by registering now by clicking here.

Morris County Budget Maintains Stable Tax Rate for 5th Straight Year

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners tonight introduced their 2024 Budget with no increase in the tax rate for a fifth consecutive year, due to another year of growing ratables and prudent fiscal management to overcome rising costs.

“Despite state mandates driving up costs and hikes in expenses that are out of our control, such as health care costs, Morris County is again introducing a thoughtful, fiscally responsible budget. It addresses our obligation as County Commissioners to provide the services our residents require and deserve. It makes the investments necessary to keep Morris County the premier county in New Jersey, and yet it still enables us to keep the tax rate flat,” said Commissioner Deborah Smith, Chair of the Commissioners’ Budget Committee.

The proposed $365.3 million spending plan was presented to the full board by the Budget Committee, including Commissioners Doug Cabana and John Krickus. The plan continues to prioritize investments in public safety, infrastructure, education, and economic development and expands services to veterans.

Highlights in the budget include:

  • A combined $77.8 million towards public safety.
  • More than $24 million to support education, including career training at the County College of Morris and the Morris County Vocational School District.
  • A record $900,000 was invested in Economic Development and Tourism, with $100,000 for planning Morris County’s celebration of the American Revolution.
  • $9 million to support the Morris County Park Commission, stewards of the largest county park system in New Jersey (20,455 acres of parkland)
  • Adding $300,000 to homeless services provided by the Office of Temporary Assistance, with a total of $38.1 million for Human Services and Health Services.

Click here to download the budget presentation.

“Public safety remains a paramount interest.  The 2024 Budget provides strong funding to our Sheriff’s Department, his Patrol Division, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, and our Department of Law & Public Safety,” said Commissioner Krickus, noting public safety spending is being increased by more than $3 million.

Prudent fiscal management and an 8.8 percent increase in ratables also helped Morris County to address growing expenses forced by mounting state mandates on operations at the Morris County Clerk’s Office and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.

“Our 2024 Budget also continues the Preservation Trust Fund investments that bolster the quality of life here and attract the people and businesses making Morris County the premier place to live, work, and raise a family,” said Commissioner Krickus. “To date, we have invested $169 million in farmland preservation, $295 million in open space preservation, $50 million into historic preservation, $100 million into flood mitigation, and $5 million in trail design and construction.”

The budget also focuses on the needs of veterans and families facing homelessness.

“We continue to expand our commitment to our veterans by funding a fourth Veterans Service Officer and a seasonal intern. We also are expanding our services to the growing homeless population,” said Commissioner Doug Cabana.

“We certainly are grateful to have nonprofit partners helping us to address the needs of our neighbors who find themselves seeking shelter. But it should be understood by everyone that the Morris County’s Human Services Department and its Office of Temporary Assistance serve the majority of our homeless population — and the most troubled individuals found in that population,” added Commissioner Cabana.

The 2024 Budget doubles to $300,000 a line item in emergency assistance funding to shelter and support people experiencing homelessness. The budget also allocates another $150,000 toward funding allocated to prevent people from becoming homeless.

The introduced 2024 Budget also includes the 2024 Capital Spending Plan initially presented in December, putting nearly $35 million toward many projects, among them road resurfacing, improving intersections replacing bridges in the county, and maintaining county facilities.

The Morris County Commissioners will consider the adoption of the 2024 Budget at their Wednesday, April 10, 2024, public meeting.

Creepy and Kooky: The Addams Family Haunts Parsippany High School Stage

PARSIPPANY — Don’t miss out as The Addams Family comes to Parsippany High School from Thursday, March 21 to Saturday, March 23! Join us for four spectacular performances of this beloved classic on the Parsippany High School stage.

Showtimes are at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 21, Friday, March 22, and Saturday, March 23, with a special matinee on Saturday at 2:00 p.m.

Tickets will be available at the door, and they accept cash or checks. Prices are $15.00 for adults and $5.00 for children. All Parsippany Troy Hills School District students enjoy free admission!

Bring your family and friends to experience the magic of the Parsippany High School Drama Club’s Spring 2024 musical!

PHHS Key Club Brightens Seniors’ Day with Memorable Dinner and Show Experience

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany area Senior Citizens gathered in the Parsippany Hills High School Cafeteria on Wednesday, March 13, and were treated to a delightful dinner courtesy of the Parsippany Hills High School Key Club. The dinner consisted of tossed salad, pasta, meatballs and bread. Afterward, coffee and cookies were served.

Following the meal, they were entertained by the 2024 PHHS Spring Musical, “Spongebob Musical.”

The Parsippany Hills High School Key Club Executive Board include Amogh Samaga, President; Ahil Tomy, Vice President; Poorva Munjal, Corresponding Secretary; Mahi Patel, Recording Secretary; Harini Talluri, Bulletin Editor; Princy Gade, Bulletin Editor; Pragna Mandava, Class Officer; Christian Ofrecia, Publicist, Sean Lumasag, Webmaster, Kristine Bushong, Advisor.

Key Club is an international, student-led organization that provides its members with opportunities to provide service, build character, and develop leadership.

Key Club is a growing organization with global reach. With 1000s of clubs in 45 countries, the impact of Key Club members can be felt all over the world.

High school student members of Key Club perform acts of service in their communities, such as cleaning up parks, collecting clothing and organizing food drives. They also learn leadership skills by running meetings, planning projects and holding elected leadership positions at the club, district and international levels.

The Parsippany Hills High School Key Club is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

“Radiating Joy: Parsippany Hills High School Key Club sophomores Aadya Muley and Bhavnoor Kavu share warm smiles as they serve a heartwarming dinner to honored guests before the eagerly anticipated ‘Spongebob Musical.”
Patchy the Pirate is one of the supporting characters and is the live-action host of SpongeBob SquarePants.
Cast members of ‘Spongebob Musical delight and entertain senior citizens before they enjoy a special performance of the show, spreading joy and laughter throughout the evening.
Spongebob Musical cast members captivate and amuse senior citizens before their exclusive performance, igniting an evening filled with happiness and laughter.
PHHS Key Club advisor Kristine Bushong alongside Key Club Zone Administrator Bonnie Strum.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, April 2024. Click here to view the magazine.

Hanover Township Organizes Planning Session for “Next 250 Celebration”

MORRIS COUNTY — Hanover Township is calling for volunteers interested in coordinating the upcoming “Next 250 Celebration,” scheduled for July 4, 2026. This event marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

The township aims to collaborate with East Hanover, Hanover, Mountain Lakes, and Parsippany, the municipalities that comprised Whippany during colonial times.

Interested volunteers are invited to attend a planning meeting on March 19th at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Hanover Township Municipal Building located at 1000 Route 10 West.

Parsippany Wrestling’s Pasta Fundraiser Raises Funds and Spirits in the Community

PARSIPPANY — The “Annual Pasta Fundraiser” hosted by Parsippany Wrestling took place on Saturday, February 24 at the Parsippany PAL Building, drawing a crowd of well over 300 supporters. The meal, generously donated and prepared by the Order Sons of Italy In America – Lodge 2561, was a hit among attendees.

The day began early at 7:30 a.m., with Joe Jannarone Jr. kicking off the preparations by making his renowned homemade sauce/gravy.

The day began early at 7:30 a.m., with Joe Jannarone Jr. kicking off the preparations by making his renowned homemade sauce/gravy. As 2:00 p.m. rolled around, the kitchen was abuzz with activity as members of the Sons of Italy worked tirelessly to ensure everything was ready for the anticipated influx of guests at 6:00 p.m.

Saucy Success: 14 Gallons of Tomato Sauce Spice Up Parsippany’s Pasta Fundraiser

The turnout exceeded expectations, with the large crowd enjoying an all-you-can-eat meal and participating in a tricky tray that encircled the room. In total, the kitchen crew prepared approximately 80 lbs. of penne pasta, 40 pounds of meatballs (equivalent to 640 meatballs), a variety of gluten-free pasta, 14 gallons of tomato sauce, and butter sauce. Donuts and cookies provided the perfect finishing touch to the feast.

While it may have been a long and labor-intensive day, the members of the Sons of Italy undoubtedly find fulfillment in coming together to support local charities.

Congratulations are for Parsippany Wrestling on the remarkable success of their event.

The meal, generously donated and prepared by the Order Sons of Italy In America – Lodge 2561, was a hit among attendees.
The Tricky Tray
Attendees on line waiting to be served
(Left side)Sandy Neglia, Delores dePierro, Frank Neglia, Michael dePierro, Amanda McGraft, Matt McGraft; (Right side) Loretta Gragnani, Paul Carifi, Jr., Debbie and Mayor James Barberio

Protect Your Privacy: Parsippany Hosts Shredding Day for Residents

PARSIPPANY — It’s time to do away with all those old documents cluttering your home!

The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is hosting a free Shredding Day on Saturday, April 20, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon at Town Hall, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. No weight limit! Rain or Shine!

Please call (973) 263-7273 for additional information. 

Parsippany Schools Secure Substantial Increase in Funding via New Jersey State Budget

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany residents and taxpayers rejoice following the recent endorsement of the New Jersey state budget, which pledges a substantial increase in education funding for the Parsippany school district. The district is slated to receive $12,069,785 for the 2024-25 academic year, signifying a remarkable 13.95 percent rise from the previous year’s allocation.

With these added resources, the school district is poised to enhance educational offerings, upgrade facilities, and provide vital support to its dedicated educators and staff, who are pivotal in shaping the community’s future.

“We’re elated by this funding increase for our schools and extend gratitude to state legislators and policymakers who prioritized education in the budget,” remarked Mayor Barberio. “We eagerly anticipate the Board of Education’s effective allocation of these funds and their ongoing efforts to ease the tax burden on our residents.”

This augmented funding underscores a shared dedication to educational excellence and affirms the belief that investing in education is an investment in Parsippany’s future. It stands as a testament to the collective advocacy of our community, tirelessly championing the best interests of our children.

Parsippany Police Union Reaches Milestone Agreement with Township Administration

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany recently completed the collective bargaining agreement with the Parsippany Police Benevolent Association (PBA) Local 131. This significant achievement, finalized on February 16th, reflects a harmonious collaboration between the Township Administration, led by Mayor James Barberio, and representatives from the PBA, including President John Kieling, along with the Superior Officers Association (SOA), represented by George Tsimpedes.

The recently approved contract underscores the mutual commitment of both parties to safeguarding the welfare of the Township’s law enforcement officers while also upholding fiscal responsibility and community accountability. Details of the contract were not released.

Mayor James Barberio expressed gratitude for the professionalism and dedication exhibited by the PBA and SOA throughout the negotiation process, remarking, “The signing of the PBA 131 contract reaffirms our collective dedication to the safety and prosperity of our community. I commend the diligence of all involved in reaching this agreement, which reflects our ongoing support for our diligent police force.”

John Kieling, President of PBA Local 131, highlighted the contract’s role in nurturing a positive rapport between the Township and its police department. “This agreement signifies a just and balanced outcome for our officers and the people of Parsippany,” stated Kieling. “We eagerly anticipate continuing our service to the community with professionalism and integrity.”

George Tsimpedes, representing the Superior Officers Association, echoed these sentiments, affirming, “The contract’s signing underscores the collaborative ethos between the Township and its law enforcement entities. We remain steadfast in upholding the highest service standards and professionalism as we collaborate to ensure Parsippany’s safety and security.”

The Township of Parsippany extends sincere appreciation to all parties involved in negotiating and ratifying the PBA 131 contract, acknowledging their dedication to fostering a secure and thriving community for all residents.