Unity Bank Opens Doors in Parsippany-Troy Hills: Grand Opening Celebrated

Frank L. Cahill
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Unity Bank Opens Doors in Parsippany-Troy Hills: Grand Opening Celebrated

PARSIPPANY — On Tuesday, September 12, Parsippany-Troy Hills warmly greeted Unity Bank’s newest branch at its Grand Opening and ribbon-cutting event.

Situated at 66 North Beverwyck Road in Lake Hiawatha, this establishment stands where Blue Foundry Bank once operated. This marks Unity Bank’s pioneering foray into Morris County.

Unity Bank marked a new milestone with the grand opening of its latest branch located at 66 North Beverwyck Road in Lake Hiawatha. The celebration showcased the bank’s commitment to expanding its services and deepening its connection with the community. Residents and businesses in Lake Hiawatha can now look forward to a more accessible banking experience with Unity Bank’s renowned customer-centric approach.

Distinguished attendees included Mayor James R. Barberio, Council President Loretta Gragnani, Council Vice President Michael J. DePierro, Councilman Justin Musella, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and other local figures such as Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank L Cahill, Dr. Bhagirath Maheta, Raj Dichpally, Nick Rafanello and Robert Peluso, CEO of Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Highlighting the ceremony, Unity Bank representatives graciously donated $500 each to notable local organizations: Morris County Crimestoppers, Lake Hiawatha Fire District 4, and the Parsippany P.B.A.

Unity Bank’s Senior Vice President, Daniel Sharabba, handed over a check to Mayor James Barberio. This generous donation, presented in a ceremony earlier this week, is earmarked for the Parsippany PBA. The bank’s contribution underscores its commitment to fostering local initiatives and supporting vital community organizations. Mayor Barberio expressed his gratitude, noting the significant impact such donations have in bolstering local efforts.

James A. Hughes, Unity Bank’s President & CEO, commented on the bank’s expansion, noting their consistent involvement in Morris County. He emphasized the relevance of branch-level services, especially for small business proprietors, regardless of the digital banking era’s growth.

Occupying a generous 3,864-square-foot space, the Lake Hiawatha branch is set to feature dedicated parking, along with drive-up banking and ATM amenities.

In his address, Frank Cahill, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman, presented DJ with an acknowledgment plaque, expressing gratitude for choosing Parsippany as Unity’s new home and wishing them flourishing success.

In a special ceremony, Frank Cahill, Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development, took center stage to present Dhaval ‘DJ’ Bhatt, Area Manager of Unity Bank, with a plaque marking Unity Bank’s entry to Parsippany. As a token of the community’s appreciation and a symbol of warm welcome, the plaque signifies the township’s enthusiasm for the bank’s presence. Mayor James Barberio witnessed this significant moment as Unity Bank further acknowledged its relationship with the Parsippany community.

In line with its expansion, Unity Bank has also inaugurated branches in Fort Lee, Bergen County, and Lakewood, Ocean County, the latter being its debut in that county. Currently, Unity Bank boasts assets worth approximately $2.5 billion, with deposits rounding up to $1.8 billion.

Unity Bank is a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Unity Bank’s Senior Vice President Daniel Sharabba presents a check to Morris County Sheriff James Gannon as a donation to Morris County Crimestoppers

Unity Bank’s Senior Vice President Daniel Sharabba presents a check Lake Hiawatha Volunteer Fire Department

Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 Celebrates Annual Members/Recruitment Picnic

Frank L. Cahill
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Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 Celebrates Annual Members/Recruitment Picnic

PARSIPPANY  — Morris County’s Order Sons of Italy In America – Lodge 2561 recently hosted their eagerly awaited “2023 Annual Members/Recruitment Picnic” at Knoll Park in Lake Hiawatha on Sunday, September 17.

With ideal weather conditions setting the mood, around 100 guests reveled in an unforgettable day filled with genuine bonds and fellowship. The attendees were treated to an extensive spread of mouth-watering dishes, freshly prepared on-site by Brownstone Catering.

The Sons of Italy actively organizes numerous charitable and community-driven fundraisers annually, dedicating all proceeds directly to various charitable causes. This event stands out, serving as a special occasion for members, their loved ones, and potentially new faces to gather and commemorate.

Parsippany Hills Council Vice President Michael dePierro, Delores dePierro and Parsippany Hills Council President Loretta Gragnani

An enriching experience shared with both familiar and fresh faces alike. Kudos to the Sons of Italy for pulling off yet another memorable event!

For more information on Morris County’s Order Sons of Italy In America – Lodge 2561, click here.

Amidst the laughter, delicious food, and spirited conversations at the Sons of Italy picnic, Charlie Alfano stood out as a beacon of joy.
Brownstone Catering truly outdid themselves at the Sons of Italy gathering. As guests mingled and shared stories, they were drawn to the impressive spread that awaited them.

Morris County Schools to Receive $23 Million in State Funding for Critical Upgrades

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Schools to Receive $23 Million in State Funding for Critical Upgrades

MORRIS COUNTY – A significant financial windfall is headed towards Morris County schools, thanks to a new state-wide initiative. The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) and the New Jersey Schools Development Authority (SDA) have approved nearly $450 million in construction funding, of which Morris County schools are slated to receive approximately $23 million.

Governor Phil Murphy stated that the funding would invest in “hundreds of school projects” across New Jersey. The funds are designed to address various high-priority needs, such as HVAC systems, leaky roofs, and inefficient boilers. The NJDOE will administer the grants, determined by each school’s specific needs.

Morris County’s allocation comes primarily from the State’s Debt Defeasance and Prevention Fund. This strategy is set to save taxpayers approximately $350 million that would otherwise have been incurred through 30-year bonds at current interest rates.

Local districts including Dover Town, Florham Park, and Morris School District are among the beneficiaries. The grants represent at least 40% of eligible costs for these projects, addressing health and safety issues and other critical requirements.

“This funding is part of a state and local partnership that will invest in hundreds of school projects while saving a significant amount of taxpayer dollars,” said Governor Phil Murphy.

Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan, Acting Commissioner of Education, noted, “This funding will benefit countless students in hundreds of schools throughout New Jersey.”

Senate President Nicholas Scutari highlighted “Where we invest taxpayer money reflects our priorities and we will always put our kids first.”

The overall cost of these projects in Morris County exceeds $1 billion, including local contributions. This grant initiative not only improves local schools but also provides local tax relief.

The approved funds are a significant stride towards meeting the critical infrastructure needs of Morris County schools. It is a win-win situation that will benefit students, taxpayers, and educators alike by upgrading facilities and providing a better learning environment.

Liz Cheney to Headline Drew Forum at MPAC: A Deep Dive into Policy, Leadership, and Bipartisanship

Frank L. Cahill
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Liz Cheney to Headline Drew Forum at MPAC: A Deep Dive into Policy, Leadership, and Bipartisanship

MORRIS COUNTY — Liz Cheney is set to headline the inaugural Drew Forum event of the season at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, October 23, hosted at Morristown’s Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC).

Drew University’s recent president, Hilary L. Link, will guide the discussion.

Former U.S. Representative from Wyoming, Liz Cheney, is slated to delve deep into policy discussions, the essence of principled leadership, and prospects for bipartisanship.

In 2022, Cheney, in the company of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, was honored with the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library’s Profile in Courage Award. Cheney’s unwavering stand for democracy also earned her special recognition.

Together with her father, the former Vice President Dick Cheney, she penned “Exceptional: Why the World Needs a Powerful America.” Additionally, this December she’s set to unveil her new book, “Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning.”

This gathering is under the patronage of the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation.

For ticket information and more details, head to drew.edu/lizcheney. Tickets can be procured by phoning the MPAC box office at (973) 539-8008 or directly at 100 South Street, Morristown.

Department of Labor Intervention Results in Boston Market Employees Receiving $630,000 in Back Wages

Frank L. Cahill
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Department of Labor Intervention Results in Boston Market Employees Receiving $630,000 in Back Wages

MORRIS COUNTY— The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) has recovered over $630,000 in back wages for 314 Boston Market employees. The issue surfaced when Cathy Grimes, a manager in East Hanover, and her team went unpaid for two months. Despite this, many employees continued to work, hoping for state intervention. After Grimes contacted the NJDOL, more of unpaid employees started to speak up.

The Division of Wage and Hour Compliance at NJDOL led an investigation. This resulted in stop-work orders and the closure of 27 Boston Market locations. The investigation began after a complaint from a Hamilton Township-based employee in November. This triggered more complaints about unpaid wages at other locations.

The Department of Labor says it found multiple violations of workers’ rights, including more than $600,000 in back wages

The investigation led to the payment of back wages, allowing the Boston Market locations to reopen. Grimes thanked the NJDOL, stating that their involvement led to the owner paying the wages, which totaled around $15,000.

Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo pointed out that this case shows the importance of the department’s power to issue stop-work orders. He warned that non-payment of workers could lead to a shutdown of operations.

The findings were sent to the parent company, Boston Chicken of NJ, LLC, and to CEO Jignesh Pandya. The department may levy additional damages and fees. As a result, the NJDOL encourages workers to know their rights and directs them to MyWorkRights.nj.gov for more information.

At the time of publishing this article, the East Hanover Boston Market remains closed, although the stop work orders have been removed from the widows.

Mayor Barberio’s Fundraiser: A Gathering of Dignitaries & Strong Support

Frank L. Cahill
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Mayor Barberio’s Fundraiser: A Gathering of Dignitaries & Strong Support

PARSIPPANY  — A full house was evident on Thursday, September 14 at Mayor James Barberio’s Cocktail Fundraiser, held at Barka Mediterranean Seafood & Steak Restaurant in Mountain Lakes.

A prominent gathering of local dignitaries and friends graced the venue, indulging in a delightful evening of culinary treats, beverages, and camaraderie. The support for Mayor James R. Barberio was felt.

Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling, Morris County Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo, Parsippany Council Candidate Matt McGraft, Morris County Clerk. Ann Grossi, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, jr., Parsippany County Candidate Adam Kandil, and Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen.

Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., was present, along with his election squad for the forthcoming November 7 council race, consisting of Adam Kandil and Matt McGrath.

Kudos to the Barberio and Carifi Unite for the Parsippany team ✅ for orchestrating such a successful event. Best wishes!

Barberio is serving the second year of his third term and is up for re-election in 2025.

Jack Lipps, Parsippany’s Best Pizza owner Gianluca Fernicola, and Jeffrey Long, owner of Physiopros Performance Rehab
Mayor James Barberio and Santosh Peddi
Parsippany-Troy Hills showcased its leadership and prospective representatives in one formidable assembly. Township Council Candidate Matt McGrath, Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., and Township Council Candidate Adam Kandil all stood side by side, highlighting the unity and collaborative spirit that defines the township’s political landscape. Such gatherings reiterate the commitment of these individuals to the growth and welfare of the community they serve.
In a significant meeting of leadership, Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President Michael dePierro and Morris County Sheriff James Gannon came together. Their collaboration underscores the synergy between the township council and county law enforcement, highlighting the dedication and commitment both officials have toward ensuring the safety and progress of the community they represent.
In a display of cooperative governance, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio met with Police Chief Richard Patina. This union between the town’s chief executive and its top law enforcement officer emphasizes their shared vision and commitment to the safety, security, and overall well-being of the Parsippany-Troy Hills community.

Parsippany Comes Together to Support Viking Cross Country Team

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Comes Together to Support Viking Cross Country Team

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Hills Viking Cross Country Team, along with their parents and supporters, would like to extend a heartfelt ‘Thank You’ to the Parsippany community. After an initial setback with rain last weekend, Saturday September 16, provided an ideal sunny backdrop for our car wash fundraiser.

The team is immensely grateful to several local establishments and individuals who played pivotal roles in making our fundraiser a roaring success.

The Parsippany Police Department showed their support and drove away with gleaming vehicles after stopping by the Parsippany Hills Viking Cross Country Team’s car wash.

Firstly, a special mention to Sobhy Abdelhady from IHOP for generously hosting the car wash. His flexibility in rescheduling the wash due to weather and ensuring smooth operations today was invaluable. Edgar Ortega, IHOP’s General Manager, was instrumental in prepping for a hectic day. Their generosity did not stop there. Each car washed received a $5.00 gift certificate for IHOP, a wonderful gesture to encourage the community to support a local business.

Several local entities and individuals showed up in support, notably Parsippany’s Rockaway Neck Volunteer First Aid Squad, Saint Clare’s Health, and the Parsippany Police Department, who got their vehicles sparkling. They were also honored by a visit from Mayor James Barberio, an alumnus of Parsippany Viking. His support, both as an alum and as our Mayor, warmed our hearts.

Gianluca Fernicola, alongside his dedicated team at Parsippany’s Best Pizza, didn’t just serve slices – they served generosity and warmth. Stepping up to feed the bustling Parsippany Hills Viking Cross Country Team, they generously footed the bill, exemplifying the essence of community support. A heartfelt salute to them for their tasty offerings and their immense generosity.

After a morning of rigorous washing, our team was famished. Gianluca Fernicola and the team at Parsippany’s Best Pizza stepped in, feeding the energetic group. The cherry on top? They graciously covered our meal, showcasing their community spirit. A big thank you to them for their delicious food and big hearts.

To conclude, the team cherish and thank the Parsippany community for making the day successful. They urge everyone to continue patronizing Parsippany IHOP and Parsippany’s Best Pizza, exemplary businesses that truly care about their community. We are proud and thankful to call Parsippany home.

During their car wash fundraiser, the Parsippany Hills Viking Cross Country Team took a moment to strike a pose, capturing the spirit of teamwork and community service in one frame. A memorable snapshot of dedication, hard work, and community support.

Glacier Hills Pool Association Celebrates 60th Clambake, Honors Aviation Artist and Founder Keith Ferris

Frank L. Cahill
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Glacier Hills Pool Association Celebrates 60th Clambake, Honors Aviation Artist and Founder Keith Ferris

PARSIPPANY  — The Glacier Hills Pool Association recently celebrated its 60th Annual Clambake on September 2, at the Glacier Hills Parklands. Remarkably, this association stands as one of the few of its kind still active today, thriving largely due to the dedication of membership volunteers and its commitment to fostering community ties.

This year was particularly special, as the Association took the opportunity to honor one of its pioneers, Keith Ferris. Globally recognized as a distinguished aviation artist, Keith played an instrumental role in the inception of the Glacier Hills Pool Association over six decades ago. Alongside his neighbors, Keith embarked on an ambitious journey, selling bonds to secure the ten acres that now house the pool and its amenities.

The dedication of the early members was immense, with as many as ninety volunteers consistently turning up to contribute to the construction of the parklands and the Olympic-sized pool. Gail Brazicki, a former president of the association, took to the podium to pay tribute to Keith Ferris and to reminisce about the devoted members who made the pool’s existence possible.

Barranco Advocates for Parents at BOE Session, Questions School Code Modifications

Frank L. Cahill
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Barranco Advocates for Parents at BOE Session, Questions School Code Modifications

MORRIS COUNTY — During the public comment period of the New Jersey State Board of Education’s monthly meeting Wednesday afternoon, Assemblyman Christian Barranco espoused the importance of parental rights as the board attempts to backpedal recent changes to the equity code.“The raising and educating of our children does not take a village, it takes parents. It always has taken parents, and it always will,” Barranco (R-Morris) said.

The public testimony portion of the meeting at 2:00 p.m. was not broadcast like the 10:00 a.m. session, but lawmakers and the public spoke on the educational topic of their choice on record. Barranco spoke on the board’s amendments to Chapter 7, rules that school districts must follow to ensure equal access to educational activities and services.

“Many of us who take objection to the changes that this board creates within public education know the cause of all this. This is quite simply the long, arrogant arm of a certain faction of academia that has for generations insisted on trying to convince all of us that human society in its present form is all wrong and that we need to conform to a society that they’ve designed for us,” Barranco said.

In August, the board narrowly adopted changes to its equity code that eliminated gender-specific language and mandated schools solely recognize a student’s gender identity when separating sex education classes. In light of the backlash the board has received since, Andrew Mulvihill, the board’s vice president, noted Wednesday they have contacted the Attorney General’s Office to discuss possibly reexamining the changes it made to the code.

“Thankfully, for us, there is another arm of academia that does have the courage to oppose the actions of this board, Barranco said of the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons’ stance against gender-affirming care for minors, because of the lack of informed consent, and the unknown and irreversible consequences.”

“I’ll challenge this board and the administration to produce a paragraph in support of gender fluidity, in support of the elimination of the words male and female, in support of the expansion of sex education to include pornography in our schools and in support of keeping secrets from parents,” Barranco said. “Take that paragraph and put it on the ballot in November in the form of a referendum and let the voters of New Jersey tell you how they feel about what you’re doing.”

New Detective and Assistant Prosecutor Join Morris County Prosecutor’s Office

Frank L. Cahill
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New Detective and Assistant Prosecutor Join Morris County Prosecutor’s Office

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally confirmed the hiring of Christopher M. Cannon as Detective, Alyssa J. DiSturco as Assistant Prosecutor, and Erin Wisloff as Legal Assistant for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.

A swearing-in ceremony was held on September 11, 2023. Assistant Prosecutor DiSturco will be assigned to the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit within the Tactical Division. Assistant Prosecutor DiSturco previously served in the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office as an Assistant Prosecutor from 2016 through 2018, where she was assigned to the Special Operations Division, Special Enforcement Unit, and General Investigations Unit.

She was later hired by the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office as an Assistant Prosecutor for the Special Victims Unit and ultimately promoted to the supervisory Senior Assistant Prosecutor position. Prior to joining the MCPO, AP DiSturco was an Associate with a private law firm in Kearny, a Law Clerk for the Honorable Joseph V. Isabella, J.S.C., a Judicial Intern for the Honorable Susan J. Steele, P.J.Cr., and a Legal Intern for the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office. Assistant Prosecutor DiSturco earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers College and a Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University School of Law. Detective Cannon will be assigned to the General Investigations Unit within the Courts & Administration Division.

Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Det. Christopher Cannon, and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally

Detective Cannon previously served as a Police Officer with the Warren Township Police Department since 2016. Prior to joining Warren Township, he served as a Deputy Sheriff for the Essex County Sheriff’s Office from 2014 through 2015. Detective Cannon also worked as a Security Officer for a private security company in Cedar Knolls.

Detective Cannon served in the United States Air Force Reserve as a Senior Airman and a Specialist with the United States Army Reserve. He has earned the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, AF Basic Training Ribbon, Army Basic Training Ribbon, and an Armed Forces Reserves Medal with 1 “M” device for mobilization support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He also earned professional certifications and commendations.

He earned credit hours at the Community College of the Air Force, Joint Services Training, and the Essex County College Police Academy. Legal Assistant Wisloff will be assigned to the Appellate Unit within the Courts & Administration Division. Wisloff initially served as a Supervising Assistant Prosecutor with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office from 2007 through 2018 upon her retirement, supervising the Appellate Unit and Trial Team. Prior to being a Supervising Assistant Prosecutor, she was assigned to the Grand Jury Unit, Fraud Unit, and Trial Team from 1997-2007.

Prior to joining the MCPO, Wisloff was an Assistant Prosecutor for the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and Judicial Law Clerk for the Honorable Donald G. Collester, J.S.C. She earned her juris doctorate from Widener University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of North Carolina. Prosecutor Carroll said, “I welcome back AP DiSturco and Legal Assistant Wisloff, as their expertise will be an asset to our legal team. I also welcome Detective Cannon. We are pleased to have such a decorated officer joining our investigative staff.”

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