PARSIPPANY— Discovered: Yellow Lab! Located on the evening of August 29 near Ashwood Place in Lake Hiawatha. He has a collar but lacks tags or a microchip. If you know this dog, please reach out at (973) 263-7083!m
MORRIS COUNTY — Important dates you should know regarding the 2023 General Election.
September 23: Commencement of mailing of Mail-in ballots for the General Election.
October 17: Last day to register to vote for the General Election. (Click here for additional information.)
October 24: On or before this date, applications for appointment of Challengers for General Election shall be filed with the County Board of Elections. (Click here for additional information)
October 25: Mailing of Sample Ballots.
October 31: Last day to apply for a Mail-in Ballot application (formerly civilian absentee ballot) by mail for the General Election. (This is for those who have moved within Morris County, or did not receive a Mail-in ballot.) (Click here for complete information). Mail or deliver the application to Morris County Clerk’s Office, PO Box 315, 10 Court Street, Administration & Records Building, 1st Floor, Morristown, NJ 07963-0315.
October 28 – November 5: Early voting period for early In-Person Voting.
MORRIS COUNTY — Important dates you should know regarding the 2023 General Election.
September 23: Commencement of mailing of Mail-in ballots for the General Election.
October 17: Last day to register to vote for the General Election. (Click here for additional information.)
October 24: On or before this date, applications for appointment of Challengers for General Election shall be filed with the County Board of Elections. (Click here for additional information)
October 25: Mailing of Sample Ballots.
October 31: Last day to apply for a Mail-in Ballot application (formerly civilian absentee ballot) by mail for the General Election. (This is for those who have moved within Morris County, or did not receive a Mail-in ballot.) (Click here for complete information). Mail or deliver the application to Morris County Clerk’s Office, PO Box 315, 10 Court Street, Administration & Records Building, 1st Floor, Morristown, NJ 07963-0315.
October 28 – November 5: Early voting period for early In-Person Voting.
November 6 – by 3:00 pm: Last day to apply for a Mail-in Ballot application (formerly civilian absentee ballot) in person for the General Election. (This is for those who have moved within Morris County, or did not receive a Mail-in ballot.) (Click here to download an application). Voted Mail-In Ballots will not be accepted at your polling location. They must be mailed or deposited in one of the Drop Boxes located throughout Morris County. (Click here to find the nearest drop box). In-person Mail-in ballots must be returned to the Board of Elections or deposited in an Official Ballot Drop Box by 8:00 p.m
November 7: General Election Day. Polls are open from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Click here to find your polling place.)
Mail-in ballots sent by the United States Postal Service must be postmarked on or before Tuesday, November 7, and received by Monday, November 13.
PARSIPPANY — A 17-year-old girl from Parsippany was taking a left turn onto Route 10 West when she was unexpectedly hit by Ms. Se Ra Park, 53, of Staten Island, New York. Ms. Park had run a red light. The teen was behind the wheel of a 2016 Volkswagen Jetta, which, due to the impact, was later towed away by Eagle Towing.
While reporting the incident to Officer James Brennan of Parsippany-Troy Hills, the 17-year-old mentioned she was obeying a green light when her car was impacted on the passenger’s side, causing it to overturn.
Ms. Se Ra Park admitted to being on Route 10 West without stopping for the red light. This account was further validated by three eyewitnesses who confirmed seeing Ms. Park bypass the red light and hit the Volkswagen Jetta.
The subsequent police review corroborated the narratives presented by both parties, establishing that the collision was a direct result of Ms. Park’s disregard for the traffic signal. At the time of the incident, Ms. Park was driving a white 2011 Toyota Sienna, which was also removed from the site by Eagle Towing.
For her negligence, Ms. Park received a summons citing her for “Failure to observe the traffic control device (39:4-81).”
PARSIPPANY — Seton Hall University is pleased to announce the following students who qualified for the Spring 2023 Dean’s list and to congratulate them for their outstanding academic achievements.
The following local students made the list:
Venise Jan Castillon
Brian Deegan
Rujuta Deo
Joshua Goodreds
Brett Leech
Antonios Papayianis
Jordan Paris
Jordan Rabadi
Sumaiya Rehman
Richard Sevilla
Sara Siddiqui
Sumaiyah Siddiqui
Ashley Skladany
One of the country’s leading Catholic universities, Seton Hall University has been a catalyst for leadership – developing students in mind, heart, and spirit – since 1856. Home to nearly 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students and offering more than 80 rigorous majors, Seton Hall’s academic excellence has been singled out for distinction by The Princeton Review, US News & World Report, and Bloomberg BusinessWeek. Seton Hall, which embraces students of all religions, prepares its graduates to be exemplary servant leaders and caring global citizens. Its attractive main campus is located in suburban South Orange, New Jersey, and is only 14 miles by train, bus, or car to New York City, offering a wealth of employment, internship, cultural, and entertainment opportunities. The university’s nationally recognized School of Law is prominently located in downtown Newark. For more information click here.
PARSIPPANY — In an unexpected gesture, Mayor James R. Barberio celebrated Edward Hansberry, the owner of Parsippany Deli & Emerald Gifts, for his 55 years of dedicated service to the community. On Monday, August 28, the Mayor awarded Mr. Hansberry with a certificate of achievement and presented him with the prestigious Key to Parsippany.
A long-standing fixture in Parsippany, the family-owned deli is renowned for its delectable sandwiches and authentic Irish dishes. Beyond its culinary offerings, the establishment also sells exquisite Irish merchandise, including Claddagh rings and fine Irish china.
Recalling fond memories of the deli, Mayor Barberio said, “I remember frequenting this place with my buddies during my younger days in this neighborhood. Mr. Hansberry’s warm hospitality and delicious food have been constants here, and it’s evident why he’s been in business for over half a century. I foresee many more successful years ahead for him.”
Edward Hansberry’s contributions extend beyond his business. He’s a founding member of the Irish-American Association of North Jersey Feis. Additionally, he holds lifetime memberships in Fire District #6, the Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association, and Parsippany PBA Local 131.
For those wishing to visit, Parsippany Deli & Emerald Gifts can be found at 137 Parsippany Road.
Mayor James Barberio awarded Mr. Hansberry with a certificate of achievement.
MORRIS COUNTY — On his return home from a Jamaican vacation my friend was excited to relive his culinary adventures with me. As he raved on about the many delicious Jamaican dishes he experienced while in the West Indies, I realized a visit to an authentic Jamaican restaurant was in order. A quick search of Google surprisingly pointed to a local area eatery only a few miles from my home in Downtown Boonton. I say surprisingly as I must have driven past this quaint little storefront building a hundred times and never realized it was the home to what was going to turn into another wonderful dining adventure.
Eric and Donna Hewitt alongside Pat Minutillo: Celebrating Culinary Passion in Boonton.
Eric’s Jamaican Cuisine is located at 309 Main Street, at the far end of the business district near the Boonton Transit Station and Myrtle Avenue. Street parking in close proximity to the restaurant is usually available, and Eric’s is easy to find. Look for the brick-faced; glass-fronted building with the green striped awning with yellow lettering boldly announcing the restaurant’s name.
A novice to this cuisine, I was looking forward to what my research revealed. Based on the cultural history of the Caribbean, their food is an eclectic fusion of fresh, flavorful food, that encompasses cooking influences ranging from the Middle East to China, Africa, and every place in between. Yes, this cuisine is considered Caribbean food, with a strong African influence. My proclivity for spicy, properly spiced and seasoned, ethnically authentic dishes, made this style of cooking appear to be a perfect match for my palate. In fact, I ordered a wide sampling of dishes which not only met, but exceeded my expectations, but more about that later.
Succulent and spicy: the allure of authentic jerk chicken.
A culinary melting pot of cultures, Jamaica’s cuisine focuses on fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood. As stated, I enjoy spicy food, but Jamaican food, despite being known for being spicy, can be prepared and adapted to your taste, so don’t let that scare you away. This cuisine utilizes a unique and wide array of herbs and spices that provide a range of tastes from sweet, savory, spicy, and more, offering something to satisfy almost anyone’s particular taste buds. Whatever you order, be assured it will be a comforting, mouth-watering dish, full of distinctive flavors and color.
Eric Hewitt, along with wife Donna, are the owners and proprietors of Eric’s Jamaican Cuisine. A small, independently owned, mom-and-pop eatery that the couple opened in downtown Boonton in 2014. You would be hard-pressed to find a more congenial, warm, and friendly couple than Eric and Donna. Eric came to the USA in 1987, and he and Donna, who basically handles the counter while Eric cooks have been married for 31 years. Previously owning a similar eatery in Paterson, Eric and Donna decided to bring their talents to our area nine years ago, and we’re fortunate they did.
The dining area is adorned with about eight to ten pristine white-topped tables, each accommodating four guests. The interior design is understated yet impeccably neat, with the emphasis clearly on the culinary offerings rather than the elaborate decor. Warm hues of yellow and orange grace the walls, punctuated by striking Jamaican-themed artworks. Among these paintings are several tributes to the legendary Bob Marley, pieces Eric takes pride in, having been crafted by their family friend, Kevin Grant.
On entry, you are met with a tantalizing aroma that will stimulate your appetite as you are warmly greeted by a smiling and welcoming Eric or Donna, who are probably stationed at the counter at the head of the restaurant. The counter fronts a spotless, openly visible kitchen, where one can watch Eric working his magic. Immediately you feel at home in their cozy, comfortable, and casual dining room. The eatery itself offers approximately eight to ten white-topped tables, each of which seats four people. The décor is simple but very clean and organized. The focus here appears to be on the food and not fancy decorations or gimmicks. The soft yellow and orange walls are offset by a variety of tasteful original Jamaican-themed paintings, including several of Jamaican superstar Bob Marley, which Eric proudly told me, were all painted by Kevin Grant, a family friend. Most days you will hear soft Reggae music playing in the background. As I stated, the decor is simple, but the vibe and ambiance seem to blend nicely with the cuisine. Comfortable ambient lighting from the large storefront window is relaxing and highlights the white ceiling and wood panel flooring.
Eric stated that he learned all his cooking skills from his mother, and to this day still utilizes his mother’s traditional recipes in his restaurant. He assures me that every one of his dishes is as authentic as those he ate as a child sitting in his mother’s kitchen. As his wife Donna told me, “Eric puts his heart and soul into every dish.” She elaborated, “All their food is made with love.” Eric added, “Everything is made every day from scratch, we use only the freshest ingredients.” After sampling their food, I had no doubt about any of those comments.
Because of my, and my guests’, unfamiliarity with the menu we sought the assistance of Eric, who was more than pleased to prepare an assortment of authentic, traditional food that more than met our needs. Each dish was more tasteful than the next, and by the time we were done, we had received an introduction, and education, into Jamaican cuisine at its finest.
Golden pocket of flavor: The Jamaican beef patty.
Our meal, which we decided to share family style, consisted of Brown Stew Chicken, Oxtail, Curry Goat, Curry Chicken, Beef Curry, Jerk Pork, Jerk Chicken, Chicken, and Beef Patties, with sides consisting of a large platter of Rice and Peas and Jamaican Steamed Cabbage. We were confronted with enough food to feed a small army! To go along with our abundant meal, I brought along some Red Stripe (Jamaican Lager Beer), while my guests enjoyed their wine. Did I mention that Eric’s is a BYO? Cold drinks, including some of Jamaica’s most popular, like Ginger Beer and Pineapple Soda are available. On a side note, Jamaica’s national drink is Rum, (which is not available), and their most popular soft drink is Coca-Cola Classic. Their national dish is Ackee (a fruit native to tropical West Africa) and Codfish, which is traditionally eaten at breakfast and is served at Eric’s Jamaican Cuisine, which I’m also told is a must-try for an authentic Jamaican experience.
Curry Goat, with its blend of fragrant spices and tender meat, is indeed a beloved dish in Jamaican cuisine. The goat meat is slowly cooked until it’s tender and soaked up the flavors of the curry, garlic, ginger, and other spices. Its deep flavor profile with hints of sweetness, combined with the richness of the meat, offers a delectable experience that many find irresistible. The adjective “succulent” perfectly captures the essence of this dish, as it denotes something juicy, tender, and tasty. It’s no wonder the Curry Goat is a favorite for many, not just in Jamaica but also among fans of Caribbean cuisine worldwide.
Fall-off-the-bone tenderness is the way I would describe the moist, juicy, savory, perfectly cooked, and expertly seasoned dishes, whether it be the beef, pork, chicken, or oxtail; every bite offered bold and vibrant tastes that stimulated my palate. Jamaican food has just found a new fan! Be it the hint of smokey taste on the beautifully charred chicken, or the compelling sauce that complemented each dish, every bite was full of flavor, and new and exciting tastes. The Oxtail had a great texture, with a deep, rich, and strong beef taste that provided a satisfying, nice, unctuous mouth feel. The distinctive, sweet, and rich flavor of the Curry Goat was succulent. The Beef Curry was a rich dish that was spicy and warming. All sorts of different notes and savory flavors emanate from all these dishes; all a treat. The spicy, smokey, marinated, slow-cooked, and grilled Jerk Chicken was bold and aromatic, with a slightly sweet touch, and bursting with flavor.
The Oxtail delivered a deeply satisfying experience with its impeccable texture and robust beefy flavor, culminating in a sumptuously rich mouthfeel.
I should not forget to mention the sides that come with the entrees, The large serving of Jamaican Rice and Peas (beans) was a perfect complement to the meal, as was the highly flavorful Jamaican Steamed Cabbage; not to forget the fried, fresh, sweet Plantains. The homemade golden-tinted, flaky, Jamaican Patties (Beef, Curry Chicken, and Jerk Chicken) were fantastic. And should you want to add an additional kick to any of your dishes there is always a bottle of Jamaican Hot Pepper Sauce on the table. Not for everyone, but I loved it.
Summing up, Eric’s Jamaican Cuisine is the real thing. I can’t think of a better bang for your buck. Portions are generously sized, and prices are very reasonable. The food was high-quality and everything I had was cooked to perfection. One visit and I am now a Jamaican cuisine enthusiast. Thank you, Eric and Donna, for your cordial, friendly hospitality, and a wonderful dining experience. For those of you who have yet to try Jamaican cuisine, I would suggest you head over to the quaint downtown of Boonton, stop in, say hello to Eric and Donna, and have Eric cook up a meal you will remember. Eric’s Jamaican Cuisine, 309 Main Street, Boonton, NJ 07005. Phone: (973) 334-0102 Hours: Wednesday through Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Dine In – Takeout – Delivery – Catering – Special Orders (Call Ahead) – BYOB. Metered Street Parking.
Visit Eric’s Jamaican Cuisine on Facebook.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, September 2023. Click here to read the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — In a remarkable display of community engagement, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella recently embarked on a unique initiative that demonstrated his dedication to understanding and aiding local volunteer ambulance squads. Seeking to explore how government resources could be directed to bolster these essential community services, Musella spent a shift riding along with a Parsippany’s Volunteer Ambulance squad Saturday evening, gaining firsthand insights into their operations and challenges.
Musella remarked, “It was a great experience, I learned first-hand the incredible value our volunteers offer to our community along with some of their challenges.”
Councilman Musella’s ride-along offered a candid glimpse into the demanding and critical work performed by local volunteer ambulance squads. From responding to emergency calls and providing immediate medical assistance to patients, to navigating through traffic with precision, these volunteers showcased their unwavering commitment to saving lives. Musella, donning a volunteer uniform himself, observed the fast-paced and often intense nature of their tasks, gaining a newfound appreciation for the sacrifices they make to keep the community safe.
The dedication of volunteers in organizations like the Parsippany Ambulance Squad is invaluable. Serving our community for 81 years means generations of residents in Parsippany have been able to rely on their services in times of need.
Volunteer ambulance squads play a crucial role in emergency medical services. These selfless individuals dedicate their time and skills to ensure the safety and well-being of their neighbors and community members. Their commitment not only involves responding to emergency calls but also participating in continuous training and education to keep up with the latest medical protocols and techniques.
Jen Sikora and Mike Spillert, members of the Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad exemplified their dedication to providing life-saving medical assistance to the community. File Photo.
Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance is always looking for volunteers. If you are over the age of 18, fill out this Application Form and stop in at Parsippany Road.
Are you interested in joining PVAS, but aren’t 18 years of age yet? Not a problem! PVAS maintains a Junior Squad for anyone interested in riding who is at least 16 years of age.
PARSIPPANY — Nick De Gregorio, a U.S. Marine veteran from Bergen County who chose to serve because of the tragic events of September 11, will deliver the keynote speech at the upcoming Morris County 9/11 Memorial Ceremony, according to county officials.
This year’s remembrance is scheduled for September 10 at 6:00 p.m., located at the county’s memorial site on West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany-Troy Hills. The event is open to the general public.
Nick, moved to enlist after the attacks which he witnessed as a 16-year-old student, 12 miles away from his school in New Jersey. His service to the nation spanned nine years, which included four combat deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan.
The county’s 9/11 Memorial stands in honor of all the lives taken during the attacks, emphasizing the loss of 64 residents from Morris County. Ruby-colored paving stones, inscribed with the names of every victim, outline the memorial. Furthermore, brass plates atop the memorial’s inner wall bear the names of each Morris County resident lost on that fateful day.
Attendees are reminded that seating is restricted, so bringing lawn chairs is advisable. Parking provisions have been made at the Morris County Department of Human Services building on 340 West Hanover Ave. For those requiring aid, shuttle buses will operate to and from the memorial.
The county has extended an invitation to all local emergency services, permitting them to send one vehicle for the gathering. They’ll convene at 4:30 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Academy, situated at 500 West Hanover Ave., Parsippany-Troy Hills.
The circular design of the county memorial incorporates three steel beams from the World Trade Center, accessible for visitors to touch. Additionally, the memorial features remnants from the United Airlines Flight 93 crash in Shanksville, Pa., and soil from the Pentagon, marking the crash site of the hijacked American Flight 77.
PARSIPPANY — Residents of Parsippany have a new medical care option available. AFC Urgent Care, the latest medical facility, officially opened its doors to the community. The ceremonial ribbon was cut by Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Frank Neglia, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill marking the beginning of the facility’s operations. In addition, Economic Development Members Adam Kandl, Raj Dichpally, and Nick Rafanello Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, and Board Member lldiko Peluso joined the owners of the new medical facility.
Each treatment room is equipped with the latest medical technology. From the adjustable patient bed to the well-organized medical tools station, everything is kept within arm’s reach for medical professionals.
Situated at 1160 Route 46 West, this state-of-the-art urgent care facility stands on what was once a Re Max realty office. The AFC Urgent Care Center promises to offer a comprehensive range of medical services. Patients can expect family care, flu shots, physicals, allergy treatments, and many other medical provisions. They’ve also equipped the center with on-site imaging and labs, enhancing convenience and efficiency for patients and medical staff alike.
The inclusion of on-site X-ray services at Parsippany’s AFC Urgent Care is more than just a matter of convenience; it’s a testament to the facility’s commitment to providing comprehensive, efficient, and high-quality care.
“We’re pleased to offer this facility as an alternative for non-life-threatening medical treatments, reducing the need to visit an emergency room,” Mayor James Barberio mentioned in his statement. Highlighting the facility’s spacious exam rooms, well-equipped labs, and advanced imaging equipment, he added, “The soothing ambiance here is sure to comfort patients and make their visits less daunting.”
Each treatment room is equipped with the latest medical technology. From the adjustable patient bed to the well-organized medical tools station, everything is kept within arm’s reach for medical professionals.
“Congratulations on your grand opening! We want to express our gratitude for selecting Parsippany as the location for your business. We wish you success and prosperity in your new venture. Thank you for being a part of our community,” said Frank Cahill, Chairman Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee.
Situated at 1160 Route 46 West, this state-of-the-art urgent care facility stands on what was once a Re Max realty office.Each treatment room is equipped with the latest medical technology. From the adjustable patient bed to the well-organized medical tools station, everything is kept within arm’s reach for medical professionals. This ensures swift and efficient care, minimizing the patient’s time in discomfort or uncertainty.
The facility keeps its doors open for walk-ins, and for those who prefer scheduling their visits, appointments can be booked online. Operating hours are set from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekdays and from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays.
PARSIPPANY — Steve Conte, owner of Funny Books, welcomed a visit from the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee, accompanied by Video on the Go.
Funny Books is located at 98 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha.
Parsippany’s gem, Funny Books, shines on Public Access Channel 21. Join Mayor and the Economic Development Committee in the #SHOP LOCAL, #SHOP PARSIPPANY initiative. Keeping community and business intertwined!
In conjunction with Video on The Go Producer, Cinematographer, and Director Brian Satch, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill began working with local businesses within Parsippany to help publicize their business.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor said, “Parsippany businesses create job opportunities here in Parsippany. And add to the Township character. They also contribute to our charitable organizations. As Mayor of the Township Parsippany-Troy Hills, I ask you to #SHOP LOCAL, #SHOP PARSIPPANY.
The video will be aired on Public Access Channel 21 and included on the Township’s social media posts. In addition, Parsippany Focus will promote the videos as a free service to the Parsippany business community.
“In addition to working with the Administration on attracting new business to Parsippany, our committee is committed to working with current businesses and helping promote business within Parsippany,” said Cahill.
The service is free to any Parsippany business. Contact Frank Cahill at (973) 559-6000 for scheduling.
Funny Books is located at 98 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha.
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Summing up, Eric’s Jamaican Cuisine is the real thing. I can’t think of a better bang for your buck. Portions are generously sized, and prices are very reasonable. The food was high-quality and everything I had was cooked to perfection. One visit and I am now a Jamaican cuisine enthusiast. Thank you, Eric and Donna, for your cordial, friendly hospitality, and a wonderful dining experience. For those of you who have yet to try Jamaican cuisine, I would suggest you head over to the quaint downtown of Boonton, stop in, say hello to Eric and Donna, and have Eric cook up a meal you will remember.
