PARSIPPANY — Preliminary counts show Republicans Paul Carifi, Adam Kandil, and Matt McGrath ahead in the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council contest against Democrats Judy Hernandez, Bernard Clarkin, and Matt Kavanagh.
Party
Candidate
Votes
Republican
Paul Carifi, Jr.
4,464
Matt McGrath
4,403
Adam Kandil
4,353
Democrat
Judy Hernandez
4,233
Matt Kavanagh
4,140
Bernie Clarkin
4,101
•November 9 is the deadline for receipt by the County Board of Elections of Mail-in Ballots by delivery of the USPS that do not bear a postmark of delivery.
•November 13 is the deadline for receipt of timely mailed postmarked Mail-in Ballots to the County Board of Elections.
•November 18 is the deadline for receipt of Cure forms by the County Board of Elections.
•November 22 is the meeting of the Board of Canvassers.
•November 27 is the deadline for the County Clerk to transmit the Official General Election results to the Secretary of State.
Editors Note: Results are unofficial. Early Voting and Initial Mail-In Ballots Counted and await Final Mail-In and Provisional Ballot Results.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon swore in three Sheriff’s Officers Wednesday during a ceremony in the historic courtroom at the Morris County Courthouse.
The ceremony was attended by family, friends, Sheriff’s Office Administration, and other Morris County Sheriff’s Office members.
Officer Steven Bachmann was sworn in as a new Sheriff’s Officer. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Rutgers University, and before his employment with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, he worked for the Roxbury Township Police Department.
Officer Brian Weber holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology from The College of New Jersey. He joined the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in 2022 after graduating from the Ocean County Police Academy. Officer Weber is currently assigned to the Patrol Division. He has been afforded a title change from Sheriff’s Investigator to Sheriff’s Officer.
Officer Ryan Wood joined the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in 2022 and began his career assigned to the Protective Service Division. He is currently assigned to the Emergency Services Unit as a full-time member.
Officer Wood is committed to giving back to his community. He has been a volunteer firefighter of the Budd Lake Fire Department since 2015, serving as an Engineer and Lieutenant. Officer Wood is also a New Jersey National Guard member, serving as an Infantryman since 2015, and will be deployed next year. He has been afforded a title change from Sheriff’s Investigator to Sheriff’s Officer.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany’s Town Council is set to deliberate on three significant PILOT (Payment In Lieu of Taxes) redevelopment projects at tonight’s meeting. The proposed developments include large-scale apartment complexes at 2 and 3 Campus Drive, as well as warehouse space at 249 Pomeroy Road.
Details on the proposed projects and additional agenda items are available for public review by clicking here.
On the agenda is also an ordinance adopting 6 Sylvan Way as an area in need of Redevelopment.
Residents and interested parties are encouraged to attend the meeting, which will take place starting at 7:00 p.m. in the Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard.
This session presents an opportunity for community members to gain insights and provide input on the transformative projects poised to shape the future of Parsippany’s landscape.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County County Clerk Ann Grossi, Esq. (Republican) secured re-election with 56% of the votes, amounting to 58,482 of the 103,633 total votes cast. Her opponent, Caroline O’Brien, (Democrat) received 44,994 votes, equivalent to 44% of the vote.
As a Constitutional Officer in New Jersey, the Morris County Clerk serves a term of five years. Ann Grossi has been in office since January 2014 and is at the end of her tenth year. This re-election would mark the start of her third term.
Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi, a Parsippany native has already devoted ten years to the role. Her tenure as a Morris County freeholder and a councilwoman for Parsippany-Troy Hills has fortified her experience. Grossi’s campaign hinged on her dedication and her extensive legal and administrative background, which she believes are crucial to capably managing the County Clerk’s Office functions. She vows to tackle upcoming challenges with the same efficacy that has marked her past decade in office.
Grossi said she was also proud of the quality of services that her office provides.
“I receive compliments from the public all of the time, which reinforces my vision for the Clerk’s Office since it is a direct service provider to the public.
During her tenure, Ann Grossi has overseen the introduction of several programs and services aimed at enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of the Morris County Clerk’s Office.
Key initiatives include:
The launch of a free mobile app designed to streamline services for residents.
A property fraud alert system that offers free protection for property owners against fraudulent activities.
The establishment of free email subscription alerts to keep the community informed.
The maintenance of active social media platforms to engage with residents and provide timely updates.
Operation Give Back, a discount book for veterans with more than 300 local merchants participating. or Veteran.
Furthermore, Grossi’s office has modernized the process for handling passport applications by:
Passport department does allow walk-ins, or to help with better planning, appointments are available
Creating a comprehensive passport acceptance division, which also offers passport and visa photo services.
Providing specialized county identification cards, catering to military veterans, Gold Star Families, and seniors.
Offering Notary Public services to residents.
In addition to these services, her office has developed an election night reporting website, providing real-time updates and enhancing transparency around election results. These advancements reflect Grossi’s commitment to leveraging technology and innovative solutions to serve the residents of Morris County more effectively.
Editors Note: Results are unofficial. Early Voting and Initial Mail-In Ballots Counted and await Final Mail-In and Provisional Ballot Results.
MORRIS COUNTY — nourish.NJ recently celebrated the inauguration of its latest facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 347 South Salem Street in Victory Gardens.
The new facility is an 8,000-square-foot facility aimed at addressing food insecurity by providing fresh food, stable housing, and critical mental health support. A community hub offering a variety of services to assist with case management, financial stability, mental and physical health, and more, in one of the most densely populated and impoverished municipalities in New Jersey.
The Kitchen Cocina: The newly established kitchen allows for the preparation of thousands of wholesome meals weekly, emphasizing the use of fresh ingredients.
For nearly 40 years, nourish.NJ has constantly adapted to create dynamic, lasting solutions to the problems of hunger, homelessness, and poverty in Morris County. Formerly known as the Community Soup Kitchen, the Morristown-native organization operates 365 days a year, offering supportive services and carrying out its mission with the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion at the heart of its work. Their unique approach to fostering and maintaining an environment that is accepting, affirming, and empowering to all who engage with their organization sets them apart and enables their ability to offer maximum assistance.
Terry Connolly delivers a speech to the gathered crowd at nourish.nj
The last three years in particular have served as a time of dramatic growth and transformation for nourish.NJ. Consequently, their geographic and programmatic reach, as well as their community impact, have increased significantly, culminating with the grand opening of their new Community Hub on South Salem Street in Victory Gardens.
Terry Connolly, Senator Anthony Bucco, and James Collins, the Chief Development Officer, discuss the introduction of nourish.nj as a significant public service to the community.
This additional location features a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen, which will help the organization serve thousands more healthy, freshly prepared meals. Additionally, new office spaces for their Outreach Team will enable the offering of free, easily accessible case-management services for housing, mental and physical health, and financial stability support.
Mark Dinglasan, Executive Director Office of the Food Security Advocate. The Office of the Food Security Advocate coordinates the administration of the State’s food insecurity programs, advocates for the food insecure, and develops policy initiatives to combat hunger and facilitate greater access to food relief programs.Nancy Rudgers leads Assemblywoman Aura Dunn on a tour of the new facility.Gerardo Segovia showcases the contents of the Community Fridge, which offers a dependable source of nutritious food accessible to everyone daily, with no inquiries made.Community Closet: A resource providing essential household items to anyone in need, no questions asked.
PARSIPPANY — The Lake Parsippany Ladies Auxiliary is hosting its Annual Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, November 26, from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Enjoy delicious homemade pancakes, sausage, bagels, and more, along with coffee, tea, and orange juice.
Cost:
Adults: $10.00
Seniors (60 and older): $7.00
Children aged 2 to 8: $5.00
Children under two years old eat for free.
Don’t miss the chance to participate in a 50/50 raffle and a basket raffle at the Lake Parsippany Fire Department, located at 255 Halsey Road.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Focus reached out to all Board of Education candidates for the upcoming election. Here’s what Nicole DellaFave had to say.
Q. What is the role of the school board of education? What is the role of the Superintendent of Schools? (Please answer both parts):
A. The role of the board of education is to enforce current policies, be the voice of the constituents, and hold the school district accountable to represent the best interests of all students. They also hire the superintendent, which creates a domino effect for the rest of the district.
The superintendent is essentially the CEO of the school district. He or she sets the tone for how the district works. They hire and manage the administration, which effectively manages the rest of the staff. The superintendent is responsible for the direction in which the district trends.
Q. If you have not previously served on, or run for election to the Board of Education in the past, what motivated you to run at this time?
A. I was a teacher in Parsippany for 17 years. Being that I worked in the district I lived in, I could not run to be a board member. I have been out of the classroom for three years and would like to bring my voice – representing parents, teachers, and taxpayers, to the board. I see a need for fresh faces, new ideas, and positive energy!
Q. Between April 30, 2022, and April 30, 2023, how many Board of Education meetings have you attended?
A. I would say four meetings. I have two children whose activities often took me away – however, I always read the bulletins and minutes and corresponded with the board as I saw fit. I was also able to listen to meetings when they were conducted virtually – which was unfortunately taken away last year.
Q. Attending Bi-monthly meetings is only a fraction of the commitment needed by an elected board member. If you have attended less than three meetings during this time, how will you assure voters that you have the time and dedication to serve on the Board of Education?
A. Being a board member is indeed a huge commitment. Being a teacher for so many years, it is easy for me to commit to serving a purpose larger than myself. My family knows my passion for public education and the need to make a difference in our community. Being around people and the decision-makers that shape our student’s lives is of utmost importance. I am grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of this.
Q. If elected to the Board of Education, what would be your three top priorities in detail?
A. My priorities would be as follows:
Bring relevant and challenging educational programming to our schools. We should be actively researching initiatives throughout the state and country to see what inventive programs there are. We should look at all levels of our schooling and curriculum, survey the staff, see which areas are in need of a boost, and use that data to bring fresh programming.
Infrastructure. Our school buildings are old and in desperate need of updates and upkeep. I believe the board members need to go around to each and every building and take stock of major update priorities. This needs to be done in conjunction with expanding our schools and making sure we have the capacity needed for any and all new developments.
My third priority is to engage with the public – including our teachers, and to make the board a space free of any partisan feelings; a space that needs to be rational and logical. I would like to open the lines of communication and get down to the business of helping all of our students.
Q. Describe your plan to balance the needs/wants of your constituents, state and federal mandates, and your personal beliefs to ensure that school district policies are appropriate to these sometimes competing priorities.
A. My plan is simple. Think of the children first. As an educator, I am trained to think of that line first and foremost. No matter the policy – how will this affect the students? Will this be the best for the students? Does this meet the needs of all students? With those questions in mind, personal beliefs, federal and state mandates, needs, and wants of the constituents may fall away, because we can actually come together to serve the common goal.
Q. Describe your comfort level with fiscal responsibility and your ability to make difficult and sometimes unpopular decisions to maintain financial stability.
A. This is always a tough question. We would all like to wave a magic wand and make everything affordable and all decisions would be easy. I don’t believe there is an easy answer to this question. I understand holding to the 2% threshold is important, but it is also limiting. Again, we look to the logic. What options do we have that make the most sense, and would also be responsible for the future, and the taxpayers? This may mean making a cut, but adding a program that eliminates the need for something else. I’m ok with that, as long as the purpose always comes back to the students.
Q. As a publicly elected Board of Education member, you are a constant representation of the Parsippany Board of Education, including on social media platforms. Describe how you would balance your personal opinions with your sworn obligations to the board while using these platforms.
A. A social media presence can be a blessing and a curse! Considering one of my main ideals is to take away personal/partisan beliefs, I feel that posts on those platforms should refrain from political beliefs or affiliations. That is not to say that personal opinions shouldn’t be expressed – however, the public is entrusting board members to make decisions based on the well-being of the students in the district, not following a specific ideology. This must be separate.
Q. Having a family member employed by the school district or elected as a Board of Education Member creates a potential conflict of interest. If this situation pertains to you, how can you assure voters that, if elected, your decisions will be objective and in the best interest of the school district and not seen as nepotism?
A. While I don’t believe this directly applies to me, my only family member employed by the district is my aunt, who is a paraprofessional at Lake Hiawatha Elementary. As always, the kids should be at the forefront of our discussions and decisions.
MORRIS COUNTY — When an event garners an unexpectedly large turnout in support of a candidate, the situation at The Westin – Governor Morris Hotel’s ballroom is a prime example. It was bustling with attendees, prompting the hotel personnel to continually set up additional tables and chairs to seat the growing number of supporters.
The turnout for Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi’s 10th Annual “Get Out To Vote” campaign was a testament to its far-reaching support.
The turnout for Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi’s 10th Annual “Get Out To Vote” campaign was a testament to its far-reaching support. Distinguished guests included Senators, Assembly members, Commissioners, Mayors, Council members, Republican Committee Chairs and members, Republican Committee Club chairs and members, and candidates for various offices. The event drew not just a host of supporters but also representatives from all 39 municipalities of Morris County and even beyond, demonstrating a strong show of support for the County Clerk’s initiative.
County Clerk Ann Grossi, Esq., joined by Commissioner Tayfun Selen, demonstrates unity for the approaching election in Morris County.
Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi, a Parsippany native, is campaigning for re-election, having already devoted ten years to the role. Her tenure as a Morris County freeholder and a councilwoman for Parsippany-Troy Hills has fortified her experience. Facing competition from Caroline O’Brien of Towaco in the November 7 general election, Grossi has expressed her unwavering commitment to the Clerk’s office and the citizens it serves. Grossi’s re-election campaign hinges on her dedication and her extensive legal and administrative background, which she believes are crucial to capably managing the County Clerk’s Office functions. She vows to tackle upcoming challenges with the same efficacy that has marked her past decade in office.
Mayor Mark Taylor of Florham Park Expresses Support for Ann Grossi’s Bid for Morris County Clerk
Grossi said she was also proud of the quality of services that her office provides.
“I receive compliments from the public all of the time, which reinforces my vision for the Clerk’s Office since it is a direct service provider to the public.
During her tenure, Ann Grossi has overseen the introduction of several programs and services aimed at enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of the Morris County Clerk’s Office.
Key initiatives include:
The launch of a free mobile app designed to streamline services for residents.
A property fraud alert system that offers free protection for property owners against fraudulent activities.
The establishment of free email subscription alerts to keep the community informed.
The maintenance of active social media platforms to engage with residents and provide timely updates.
Operation Give Back, a discount book for veterans with more than 300 local merchants participating. or Veteran.
Furthermore, Grossi’s office has modernized the process for handling passport applications by:
Passport department does allow walk-ins, or to help with better planning, appointments are available
Creating a comprehensive passport acceptance division, which also offers passport and visa photo services.
Providing specialized county identification cards, catering to military veterans, Gold Star Families, and seniors.
Offering Notary Public services to residents.
In addition to these services, her office has developed an election night reporting website, providing real-time updates and enhancing transparency around election results. These advancements reflect Grossi’s commitment to leveraging technology and innovative solutions to serve the residents of Morris County more effectively.
Morris County Young Republican Chairman Christopher Paz, Parsippany resident Mario Fiorini and Matt Malat, Chief of Staff for Assemblyman Christian Barranco
Nick Grossi with Robert Quinn
Assemblyman Christian Barranco and Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella
Mrs. Amy Bucco and Senator Anthony M. Bucco
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Frank Neglia, Parsippany Council Candidate Adam Kandil, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Parsippany Council Candidate Matt McGrath and Thomas Mooney
Parsippany Township Council Candidate Adam Kandil and Rockaway Borough Mayor Thomas Mulligan
Amanda and Matthew McGrath
Pat Munitillo with Morris County Sheriff James Gannon
Parsippany Council Candidate Adam Kandil, Senator Joseph Pennchio, and Parsippany Council Candidate Matt McGrath
Ann Marie Ferrara and Enzo Ferrara Join Throngs at Morris County Clerk’s ‘Get Out To Vote’ Rally, Echoing Community’s Strong Support
PARSIPPANY — The 27th edition of the Kiwanis Club’s Wine Tasting Soirée was a magnificent gathering that attracted wine aficionados and community enthusiasts alike, offering a rich tapestry of fine vintages paired with Hanover Manor’s culinary delights.
The annual event held on Thursday, October 26 at the Hanover Manor, displayed over 40 wines and craft beers supplied by Joe Canal’s Discount Liquors, Parsippany.
The Hanover Manor buzzed with nearly 300 guests, all there to lend their support at the 27th Annual Wine Tasting extravaganza
The Hanover Manor buzzed with nearly 300 guests, all there to lend their support at the 27th Annual Wine Tasting extravaganza hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. The event was a vibrant affair, enhanced by the presence of the Sons of Italy and the Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter, adding layers of community engagement and shared passion for philanthropy.
Kiwanis member Frank Cahill and Unity Bank Vice President Area Manager Dhaval Bhatt (DJ).
Major sponsors of the event included Unity Bank, Morris Now APP, and Happy Daze Boutique.
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany proudly announces Cassara Grasso and Shaun Astorga of Happy Daze Boutique as silver sponsors for their 27th Annual Wine Tasting event, set for Thursday, October 26 at Hanover Manor.
The live auctions included 2-Round Trip Airtickets provided by Jet Blue, A Porsche for a weekend provided by Paul Miller Porsche, a 55-inch TV provided by Mayor James Barberio and Parsippany Township Council Members, and a Zamboni ride along with Two Tickets to Devils vs. Flyers Wednesday, December 19 provided by Gordon Meth.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Wine Tasting Event Chairman Michael Mulhaul displays the Zamboni Ride during the live auction
The 50 silent auction items up for grabs at the event piqued the interest of the attendees, creating an atmosphere of friendly competition and excitement. The diverse array of items ensured that there was something to catch everyone’s eye, contributing to a lively bidding war that was both entertaining and beneficial for the Kiwanis Club’s fundraising efforts.
An impressive list of donors for the Silent Auction included Mayor James Barberio, Parsippany Township Council, Eccola Italian Restaurant, Earth Friendly Products, Gourmet Cafe, Rockaway Red Barn, Touchstone Crystal, Parsippany Deli, Parsippany Sheraton Hotel, Longevity Veterinary Center, Envy Sports Club, Cerbo Lumber, IHOP Parsippany, Paul’s Diner, The Spa Restaurant, The Wellness Gala, Kabob Paradise, Nest Chiropractic, Shear Creations, Doreen Brennan (Mary Kay Products), Longhorn Restaurant, Plaza Nails, Baldwin Pizza, Fitness Kickboxing, Sweet Expressions, Lake Hiawatha Dairy, Paul Miller Porsche, Social Hub, Nicolas Limanov, Frank Cahill, Morris Now, Gordon Meth, Anthony Thomas, Cathy Cerbo, Parsippany Focus, James Carifi, Unity Bank, Happy Daze Boutique, Flow State Massage and Bodywork, Catherine McCall – Psychic Medium, Hogwash Car Wash, Weis Markets and Joe Canal’s Discount Outlet.
Earth Friendly Products’ participation in the Kiwanis 27th Annual Wine Tasting event with items made in Parsippany underscores a strong community tie. Their locally manufactured, eco-friendly products likely foster a sense of pride among residents, while also contributing to the local economy and the event’s success. Supporting such events aligns with their ethos of community involvement and environmental stewardship, offering residents the chance to win products that are both beneficial to their homes and the environment, and that also support local manufacturing.A 55-inch television was a sought-after item that would certainly help generate significant interest and competitive bidding at the event. Donations like this from Mayor James Barberio and the Township Council demonstrate their commitment to community events and causes, highlighting the support and dedication of local officials to raising funds for the Kiwanis Club’s charitable endeavors. Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover President Sergio Rodriquez, Frank Cahill, Laura Mulhaul, and Michael Mulhaul during the 27th Annual Wine TastingKiwanis Lt. Governor Division 9 Nicolas Limanov giving his support to the eventJersey Girl Brewing augmented the wine-tasting event with a selection of their finest craft beers, offering guests the chance to indulge in a variety of bold flavors and artisanal brews.The event was graced by the presence of distinguished guests including Kiwanis Club of Greater Drover President Sergio Rodriquez; Thomas S. Russo, Jr., the Town Manager of Newton; Anthony Scandariato and Megan Scandariato; Courtney Musella; Councilman Justin Musella; and Louis Valori. Their attendance signifies the support and commitment from various community leaders for the Kiwanis Club’s mission and activities.
If you missed the 27th Annual event, you will have a chance to attend next year. The event will be held at Hanover Manor, on Thursday, October 19. For more information click here.
With election day in Parsippany rapidly approaching, the stakes for Parsippany residents have never been higher. And yet Mr. Carifi, Mr. Kandil, and Mr. McGrath, as candidates for Town Council, refuse to go before the voters to share, debate, and defend their plans for Parsippany?
Why?
Is it because they do not have any plans other than to serve as rubber stamps for the wildly flailing and failing Mayor Barberio?
Is it because Carifi, Kandil, and McGrath hold Parsippany voters in such low esteem that they can’t be bothered to take the time to talk about their solutions to the financial and safety challenges facing Parsippany residents?
Is it because Carifi, Kendall, and McCarthy are simply afraid to debate Mr. Clarkin, Mr. Kavanaugh, and Ms. Hernandez?
Come on Paul, Adam, and Matt time is short and your silence is deafening…
