PARSIPPANY — During the Parsippany Town Council meeting on Tuesday, February 6th, Mayor James Barberio recognized Richard Onorevole, Esq., for his four decades of service in Lake Hiawatha with a Proclamation.
Frank Cahill, Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development, coordinated the tribute to Richard Onorevole, Esq.
Economic Development members Chairman Frank Cahill, Loretta Gragnani, Scott Donnelly, and Ray Dichpally presented Onorevole with a plaque—photo by Matthew O’Leary.
Economic Development members Chairman Frank Cahill, Loretta Gragnani, Scott Donnelly, and Ray Dichpally presented Onorevole with a plaque.
Cahill stated, “In appreciation of 40 years of dedicated legal service and steadfast commitment to the Parsippany community, we honor Richard M. Onorevole, Attorney at Law. His real estate, traffic law, and community leadership expertise, including his roles in the Parsippany Rotary Club and scouting, highlight his outstanding contributions to Lake Hiawatha and beyond. #PRIDEINPARSIPPANY. Thank you for being a valued member of our community!”
Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Paul Carifi Jr. issued a Certificate of Recognition for Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill. At the same time, former Council President Loretta Gragnani presented on behalf of Senator Pennachio and Assemblymen Jay Webber and Brian Bergen.
Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling presented a Proclamation to Richard Onorevole, Esq.—photo by Matthew O’Leary.
The event also featured the attendance of Morris County Commissioners Tom Mastrangelo and Tayfun Selen, representing the Morris County Commissioners, and Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling, who all presented Proclamations.
Mr. Onorevole’s Law Office, located at 101 North Beverwyck Road, has provided legal counsel on various matters, including wills, trusts, real estate transactions, and landlord/tenant disputes. He has even argued cases before the New Jersey Supreme Court. Mayor Barberio commended Mr. Onorevole’s longstanding service to the Parsippany community, highlighting his 33-year involvement in Rotary, work with the Boy Scouts, and dedication as a Public Defender, expressing gratitude for his commitment to the Township of Parsippany.
Richard Onorevole, Esq. addressing the audience—photo by Matthew O’Leary.Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio presenting a proclamation to Richard Onorevole, Esq.—photo by Matthew O’Leary.Morris County Commissioners Thomas Mastrangelo and Tayfun Selen presented a Proclamation on behalf of the Morris County Commissioners—photo by Matthew O’Leary.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Hope One van will visit multiple locations throughout Morris County in February.
Tuesday, February 13 – Morris County Police Academy 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Tuesday, February 13 – Parsippany High School 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Wednesday, February 14 – Pleasant View Village in Rockaway 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 15 – Pequannock Library; 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Friday, February 16 – Betsy Ross Diner in Jefferson; 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Tuesday, February 20 – Homeless Outreach Mission
Wednesday, February 21 – Mount Arlington Library; 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 22 – County College of Morris; 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Friday, February 23 – Church of Nazarene in Butler; 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Monday, February 26 – Trinity Soup Kitchen in Dover; 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Tuesday, February 27 – Calais School in Whippany; 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Wednesday, February 28 – Morristown Green in Morristown; 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 29 – Broadway in Denville; 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The HOPE ONE mobile recovery access vehicle offers vital support to individuals grappling with addiction, striving to prevent drug overdoses and fatalities and deliver essential mental health services.
Operating four times weekly, HOPE ONE navigates diverse locations across Morris County, reaching out to those in need. Staffed by a Sheriff’s officer, licensed mental health professional, and certified peer recovery specialist, each equipped with profound insights into addiction challenges, the vehicle streamlines access to services and provides Narcan training.
Previously employed in police tactical operations, the HOPE ONE vehicle now serves as a mobile recovery access unit. With trained personnel onboard, it furnishes individuals with resources on rehabilitation, detoxification, mental health assistance, and recovery services. Clad in protective masks and gear, the team also offers complimentary Narcan training, bolstering overdose prevention efforts.
Emblazoned with a purple ribbon symbolizing recovery, the van epitomizes a distinctive collaboration between law enforcement and social services, uniting to combat drug-related overdoses and fatalities effectively.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council met on Tuesday, February 6th, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will occur in the Council Chambers at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard within the Parsippany Municipal Building.
Formal action may or may not be taken.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for the meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request an auxiliary aid.
Mayor James Barberio Council President Paul Carifi, Jr. Council Vice President Frank Neglia Councilman Justin Musella Councilman Matt McGrath Councilwoman Judy Hernandez
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Commissioner Director Christine Myers gave a “State of the County” address at the Morris County Chamber of Commerce’s 103rd Annual Meeting yesterday, which drew about 500 attendees.
Director Myers recapped some of Morris County’s 2023 highlights, including the county earning a Triple-A bond rating for the 48th year, before shifting focus to the main subject of her message: the growing need for volunteerism in Morris County.
Morris County Commissioner Director Christine Myers presents the State of the County address.
“Over the last few years, we have seen a significant loss in the number of volunteers, which continues to decline. At some point, it won’t matter that we have a strong county government, because we are only the infrastructure, you are the heart. We need your help to turn this around,” said Commissioner Director Myers.
“This isn’t about companies doing a day of service. That is wonderful, but then you wait until next year. This is about adopting a mindset of service to others,” Myers added, noting that as a former telecommunications executive, she knows how busy work and life can be for us all.
The Chamber luncheon was held at the Hanover Marriot Hotel in Whippany to celebrate the success of individuals and businesses throughout the county.
Highlights of the Morris County Chamber 103rd Annual Meeting
The keynote speaker was Dr. Thierry Klein, president of Bell Labs Solutions Research, Nokia Bell Labs, who focused on some of the groundbreaking work Nokia Bell Labs is doing to build connectivity, security, and efficiency in an ever-evolving digital world. Klein leads a global multi-disciplinary team researching advanced sensing technologies, AI-based knowledge systems and machine learning, autonomous software, physical-digital fusion, and dynamic digital twins.
Keynote guest speaker: Dr. Thierry Klein, president of Bell Labs Solutions Research, Nokia Bell Labs.
In 2010, he was voted “Technologist of the Year” at the Total Telecom World Vendor Awards and received the 2016 Industrial Innovation award from the IEEE Communications Society.
Carole Rogers, founder of nonprofit Impact 100’s Garden State chapter, was honored with the Saint Clare’s Health William P. Huber Award for Outstanding Community Leadership. The award recognizes a person who displayed outstanding leadership to benefit the community during the previous year.
Founded in 2013, Impact 100 Garden State was inspired by a growing national trend in women’s collective giving, a model that enables the nonprofit to combine the donations of many women to award grants to local nonprofits. Rogers’s other recently launched nonprofit, SparkNJ, raises funds to provide financial support for Black-led charitable, community, and civic organizations in northern New Jersey.
Volunteerism a Major Focus at Chamber Luncheon
In her remarks, Director Myers emphasized that volunteerism does not need to be a major investment of one’s time and resources but instead inherent in the little acts we can do daily. Service-oriented people make better leaders, better team players, and better business partners who are happier, healthier, and more productive.
Myers said 2026 will offer an important opportunity for people to volunteer as the nation marks the 250th anniversary of America’s independence. She invited the community to participate in planning the events and activities that will make Morris County’s celebrations special. According to Myers, it’s an opportunity to coalesce around our shared American heritage.
For more information on how you can participate in Morris County’s 250th Anniversary, contact 250@morriscountyalliance.org. A planning committee is currently being organized through the Morris County Economic Development Alliance.
State of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce
Meghan Hunscher, President and CEO of the MCCC and Economic Development Committee, delivered a “State of the Chamber” address, thanking all the sponsors, local businesses, and community leaders who impact Morris County.
“In 2023, we had 792 members, 156 new members, and we kept our pace of holding 250 events, meetings, seminars, dinners, masterminds and roundtables, committee meetings, and networking events in person, virtual, and hybrid. The Morris Chamber is truly a regional chamber. We are proud to include businesses within the north-central region of New Jersey and beyond,” said Hunscher, encouraging guests to spread the word to anyone who can benefit from a membership.
She invited MCCC Board Advisory Chair Deirdre Wheatley-Liss, a principal of Porzio, Bromberg & Newman, who spoke on the significance of the three pillars of the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan for the Chamber: Innovation, Growth, and Community.
MORRIS COUNTY — At the inaugural meeting held on Wednesday, February 7, Patrick Minutillo commenced his service as a Commissioner on the Morris County CrimeStoppers board. “I am deeply grateful and humbled by this opportunity, and I express my heartfelt thanks to Morris County Sheriff James Gannon and CrimeStoppers Chairman John Sette for their unwavering support and confidence in my capacity to fulfill this vital role,” said Minutillo.
Established in 1986, Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers operates as a non-profit organization overseen by a board of commissioners and sustained through contributions from the business and private sectors. Our dedicated volunteer civilians on the board are committed to combatting crime, aiming to enhance safety and security throughout Morris County.
Their mission is to encourage the residents of Morris County to assist law enforcement in solving and reducing crimes within our communities. They provide a simple and anonymous platform for concerned individuals to report information related to criminal activity and offer cash rewards as incentives.
If you have information regarding crimes, criminal activity, or wanted persons (fugitives), don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers at (973) COP-CALL (973-267-2255) 1-800-SHERIFF (1-800-743-7433)
The lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
PARSIPPANY — As previously reported in Parsippany Focus, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council unanimously approved Ordinance 2023:34 during their meeting on Thursday, December 28.
Recently, permanent signs indicating “No Parking” were installed, and the Parsippany Police Department can issue summons.
The ordinance prohibits parking on both sides of Littleton Road, extending from Route 287 to Parsippany Boulevard.
Following a thorough investigation conducted by the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department and the Parsippany Engineering Department, it was determined that parking restrictions on both sides of the street should be enforced at all times.
PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, January 21, around 5:20 p.m., the Parsippany Police Headquarters received an urgent call from the Denville Police Department regarding a 2011 Beige Cadillac driving recklessly eastbound on Route 10. Subsequently, 911 calls flooded in, reporting the exact vehicle’s reckless behavior. Witnesses described the Cadillac as driving on the wrong side of the road before stopping at the Foxwood Drive and Tabor Road traffic light.
Officers Denis DeMuro and Sean Abrusci of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department promptly responded to the scene. Upon arrival, Officer Abrusci noticed two bystanders assisting the driver, later identified as Michelle Davis, in maintaining her balance.
Approaching Ms. Michelle Davis, 65, Officer Abrusci immediately detected the smell of alcohol emanating from her. Davis exhibited droopy eyelids and bloodshot eyes. When questioned about her alcohol consumption, she admitted to having consumed a few glasses of wine at her sister’s house in Dover. However, when asked for her driver’s license, Michelle stumbled back to her vehicle, using it for support.
Morris Plains Patrolman Grawher arrived on the scene to assist. Officer Abrusci conducted standard field sobriety tests, informing Davis of the procedures to ensure she was not driving under the influence. However, Davis’s response, stating, “I am drunk,” indicated her intoxicated state. Attempting the walk-and-turn test proved futile as Michelle was unable to comply due to her age, physical condition, and level of intoxication. Concerned for her safety, the officer opted to cease the test and placed Davis under arrest, escorting her to the patrol vehicle for transport to Parsippany Police Headquarters for processing. Meanwhile, Patrolman Grawher remained with Davis’s vehicle until it was impounded by C&L towing.
During processing, Davis attempted to provide breath samples for testing but failed to produce the required volume on four occasions. It became apparent that she could not complete the test correctly, leading to her refusal and subsequent issuance of a summons.
Davis expressed relief at being apprehended, acknowledging the potential danger she posed to herself and others on the road. She was released to her son’s custody pending further legal proceedings.
She was issued a summons for Driving while intoxicated (39:4-50), Consent to taking samples of breath (39:4-50.2), Refusal to submit to test (39:4-50.4), and Reckless driving (39:4-96).
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the individual(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — Mayor James R. Barberio and Chief of Police Richard Pantina presided over a Promotional Ceremony on February 7, 2024, promoting seven Parsippany Police Officers for their advancements.
Mayor James R. Barberio administers the Oath of Office to seven officers being promoted.Parsippany-Troy Hills Chief of Police Richard Pantina presided over a Promotional Ceremony on February 7, 2024
Captain Brian Dowd, holding badge number 382, ascended to Deputy Chief. Sergeant Brian Conover, badge number 443, advanced to the position of Lieutenant. Sergeant Sean Jasiecki, badge number 389, was promoted to Lieutenant. Sergeant Luke Costigan, badge number 425, was elevated to Lieutenant. Sergeant George Tsimpedes, badge number 447, was promoted to Lieutenant. Detective Jeffrey Papienuk, badge number 451, attained the rank of Sergeant. Officer Jason Ferreira, badge number 455, was also promoted to Sergeant.
Oath of OfficeMayor James Barberio officiates the Oath of Office ceremony for Deputy Chief Brian Dowd, identified by badge number 382.
Captain Brian Dowd was promoted to the rank of Deputy Chief. Deputy Chief Dowd has been a Parsippany Police Officer for 26 years while being a Captain for seven years. He has worked in the Investigative Division and Support Services Division and has been the Captain of the Patrol Division for the last five years. Deputy Chief Dowd has served as an Alcotest Operator and the School Safety Coordinator. Deputy Chief Dowd has a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from Seton Hall University.
Mayor James Barberio administers the Oath of Office to Lieutenant Brian Conover, identified by badge number 443.
Sergeant Brian Conover was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Lieutenant Conover has been a Parsippany Police Officer for 16½ years and Sergeant for the last five years. He has worked in the Patrol Division and, most recently, the Support Services Division. Lieutenant Conover serves as the Parsippany Police Department’s Public Information Officer. He has also been a Field Training Officer, Bicycle Patrol Officer, School Resource Officer, Rifle Team Member, a Crash Investigator, a Communications Certified Officer, and a CPR Instructor. Lieutenant Conover attended Saint Elizabeth University and earned his Bachelor’s in Justice Studies.
Mayor James Barberio administers the Oath of Office to Lieutenant Sean Jasiecki, identified by badge number 389.
Sergeant Sean Jasiecki was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Lt. Jasiecki has been a Parsippany Police Officer for over 24 years while serving as a Sergeant for 14 years. Lieutenant Jasiecki has primarily worked in the Patrol Division, serving many functions. He was a firearms coordinator, rifle coordinator, and field training officer. He is an ASP and OC instructor and is a rifle team member.
Mayor James Barberio administers the Oath of Office to Lieutenant Luke Costigan, identified by badge number 425.
Sergeant Luke Costigan was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Lieutenant Costigan has been a Parsippany Police Officer for over 19 years while serving nine years as a Sergeant. Lieutenant Costigan has worked in the Investigative Division as the School Safety Coordinator and is currently assigned to the Patrol Division. He attended the University of South Florida and earned two degrees: a Bachelor of Arts in Business and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.
Mayor James Barberio presides over the Oath of Office ceremony for Lieutenant George Tsimpedes, identified by badge number 447.
Sergeant George Tsimpedes was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Lieutenant Tsimpedes has been a Parsippany Police Officer for over 16 years while serving five years as a Sergeant. Lieutenant Tsimpedes has worked in the Patrol Division and is currently assigned to the Investigative Division, where he has supervised our Special Enforcement Unit members. Lieutenant Tsimpedes is an Alcotest Operator and School Resource Officer. Lieutenant Tsimpedes has a Master’s Degree in Administrative Science from Farleigh Dickinson University and a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from St. John’s University.
Mayor James Barberio administers the Oath of Office to Sergeant Jeffrey Papienuk, identified by badge number 451.
Detective Jeffrey Papienuk was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Sergeant Papienuk has been a Parsippany Police Officer for over 16 years. He has served in the Patrol Division and is currently in the Investigative Division, Internal Affairs Section. Sergeant Papienuk earned a Master’s Degree in Administrative Science and a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration from Farleigh Dickinson University; out of approximately 4,000 police officers who took the statewide New Jersey Civil Service Police Sergeant’s Exam, Sergeant Papienuk received the highest score in the state.
Mayor James Barberio administers the Oath of Office to Sergeant Jason Ferreira, identified by badge number 455.
Patrolman Jason Ferreira was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Sergeant Ferreira has been a Parsippany Police Officer for over 15 years. He has been primarily assigned to the Patrol Division but was previously assigned to the Investigative Division with a special assignment to the Drug Enforcement Agency. Sergeant Ferreira earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Montclair State University.
Joseph Jannarone, Jr. (right) congratulates Brian Dowd on his promotion to Parsippany’s Deputy Chief.During the promotion ceremony, Lieutenant Brian Conover stands proudly with his wife and three daughters.Friends, relatives, and members of the Parsippany Police Department gather at Town Hall to extend congratulations to the newly promoted officers.
MORRIS COUNTY — Through February 17, Chick-fil-A of Morris Plains is currently running a charitable initiative called “Cookies for a Cause,” where every purchase of cookies contributes $1.00 to Homeless Solutions.
Located at 1711 Route 10, Morris Plains, within the Briarcliff Commons Shopping Center, this campaign aims to support Homeless Solutions’ efforts in providing shelter, services, and supportive housing to the homeless and working poor in Morris County.
MORRIS COUNTY — World Heritage International Student Exchange Program (WH), a Non-Profit, Public Benefit Organization, seeks local families to welcome foreign exchange students into their homes for the upcoming school year. Our students hail from diverse countries such as Italy, Denmark, Spain, France, Germany, Ukraine, Japan, Australia, and many more. Aged between 15 and 18 years, these students are eager to immerse themselves in American culture, family life, school, sports, and more. They are equally enthusiastic about sharing their culture and language with their host families, creating a mutually enriching experience.
Host families may consist of single parents, couples, or single individuals. Our exchange students come fully equipped with pocket money for personal expenses and comprehensive health, accident, and liability insurance. They are carefully selected based on academic performance and personality traits, ensuring compatibility with their host families. Host families can choose students from various backgrounds, countries, and personal interests.
By opening your home to a foreign exchange student, you welcome a new member into your family and embark on a journey of cultural exchange and lifelong friendship. Join us in creating unforgettable experiences for our students and host families!”
For more information, contact Debra Garbon, World Heritage Program Director, at 1-800-888-9040 or email info@world-heritage.org.
