Boiling Springs Savings Bank donates to Parsippany Food Pantry

PARSIPPANY — Silvia Cooper presented Michele Picone, Parsippany-Troy Hills Human Services Director a check for $3,500 to be used in purchasing food for the Parsippany Food Pantry.

Pictured (left to right) Boiling Springs Saving Bank teller James Kosakowski, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano, Michele Picone, Boiling Springs Savings Bank Manager Silvia Cooper, Marketing Sales Coordinator Leigh A. DelPorto, Kristen McGovern and Courtney Ammeraal.

Boiling Springs Saving Bank is located at 66 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha.

Ms. Cooper said “We are community bankers who are community driven. It’s not just something we say, it’s something we do, upon presenting the check to Picone.”

The Parsippany Emergency Food Pantry is located at the Parsippany Community Center at 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha and is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Donations of non-perishable food items are always needed. Any resident in need of supplemental food are invited to call ahead (973) 263-7163 or (973) 263-7351/52. Ready-made bags of basic food staples such as canned goods, cereal and dried food, are available through donations from individuals, schools, scouts and churches.

Kiwanis Club donates $6,000 to New Jersey Sharing Network

PARSIPPANY — Recently Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany donated $6,000 to New Jersey Sharing Network.

Presenting the check was Michael Mulhaul, Chairman of the Grand Tasting Committee to Michele Dabal of New Jersey Sharing Network. Kiwanis Club supports NJ Sharing Network’s efforts to save more lives through organ and tissue donation.

NJ Sharing Network is the non-profit organization responsible for the recovery and placement of donated organs and tissue for those in need of a life-saving transplant. Over 4,000 New Jersey residents are currently awaiting transplantation. They are also part of the national recovery system, which is in place for the more than 120,000 people on waiting lists.

NJ Sharing Network operates 24/7/365 with a team of over 150 highly trained and dedicated members on staff. The Governing and Foundation Boards are made up of a diverse group of individuals from both public and private sectors, across a variety of disciplines, and many of whom have been touched by donation including donor families and recipients. They bring great experience and insight to the important and life-saving work that we do.

Michael Mulhaul presented a check for $6,000 to Michele Dabal, New Jersey Sharing Network

The money donated was part of the proceeds raised during Kiwanis Club’s 21st Grand Tasting Event held on October 12, 2017 at the Hanover Manor.

This year wine selection was provided by Joe Canal’s Discount Liquor Outlet, 799 Route 46 East.  Joe Canal’s is known for sizable selection of discount wine, beer and spirits.

There is a very diverse selection of wines from all parts of the world with descriptions, recommendations and ratings available on display at Joe Canal’s.  This is super helpful and takes the intimidation of selecting wine a breeze for any novice.

Grand Tasting Chairman Michael Mulhaul said “We raised over $300,000 in the past twenty one years, in which Kiwanis Club was able to donate to other non-profit organizations, including Camp Nejeda, New Jersey Sharing Network, Lake Drive Program – Mountain Lakes School District, Morristown Memorial Hospital, Eliminate and Autism.

In addition to the NJ Sharing Network, Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation will donate $6,000 to Camp Nejeda, serving children with Type 1 Diabetes since 1958.

At Camp Nejeda youth with diabetes are given the opportunity to live, if only for one or two weeks, in a world where having diabetes is the norm and where there is no need to explain blood sugar testing, finger pricks, insulin injections, ketones, ‘lows’ (insulin reactions), boluses or ‘carb’ counting because everyone here already understands.

Camp Nejeda is fully licensed by the New Jersey Department of Health and accredited by the American Camp Association. ACA accredited camps meet up to 300 standards for health, food service, safety, and program quality.

Kiwanis Club President Frank Cahill presented Chairman Michael Mulhaul with a plaque and honored him for 21 years of a successful event. The plaque read “On behalf of The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, we congratulate you for 21 Successful Years as Chairman of “Grand Tasting Committee.” Your Volunteerism Brightens our Community; With your leadership Kiwanis Club has raised over $300,000 to help one child, one community at time.

Grand Tasting Chairman Michael Mulhaul said “We are already planning our 22nd Grand Tasting which will be held on October 25, 2018.”

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany honors three members

PARSIPPANY — Three members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany were honored with Kiwanis International recognition awards at its Annual Awards Dinner held at Hanover Manor.

Ron Orthwein, who joined Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany in 1996, was honored with the “Tablet of Honor.”

Dr. Susan Elbin and Betty (Elizabeth) Polen were presented with the George F. Hixon Award.

Past New Jersey District President and Past Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President, Michael Mulhaul had the honor of presenting Ron Orthwein with his award.

Michael Mulhaul presenting Ron Orthwein with the “Tablet of Honor” award

Throughout the long history of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, the dedication of its members has kept the goals and objects of our organization alive.  These men and women unselfishly give of their time and talents to create a better community and a better world.

In 1965, Kiwanis International Foundation established the Tablet of Honor as away to recognize those who have made a difference in this world.

Fran Orthwein places the “Tablet of Honor” pin on her husband Ron.

Michael Mulhaul said “Today we celebrate the presentation of this Tablet of Honor to Ron Orthwein.  This recognition was made possible by a contribution made to Kiwanis International Foundation, from which support the needs of children and the Kiwanis family.”

Orthwein was recognized because of his dedicated service to community, Kiwanis and the world.  This is a better place to live because of his service and commitment.

“We are pleased to present to you this beautiful plaque, pocket crest, pin and name patch for your club’s honor banner,” said Mulhaul as he presented the Tablet of Honor, the highest honor bestowed by the Kiwanis International Foundation, to Orthwein.

Ron Orthwein during his acceptance speech. Looking on is Michael Mulhaul, Frank Cahill and Fran Orthwein

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Frank Cahill then presented Betty Polen with a George F. Hixson Fellowship Award.

President-elect Karen DeChristopher placing the Hixon Award pin on Betty

George F. Hixon Fellowship Awards are given to Kiwanians who have contributed to the betterment of the club. The club is eligible to award a Hixon for each donation of $1,000 to the Kiwanis International Foundation. The Hixon award is named in honor of the first Kiwanis International president.

Since Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany’s inception 27 years ago, there have been 40 other club members who received this honor.  This year’s honorees will be the 41st and 42nd member to be honored with such award.

The procedure to choose the Hixon award is forming a committee of all past Hixon recipients. The committee met in December and was chaired by the immediate past honoree, Karen DeChristopher.

In choosing this years honoree, it was very easy to select once the members of the committee heard the accomplishments of  this years honoree.

The requirements for the Hixon award are:

  1. Consistently works for the club on projects and programs.
  2. Has been a member in good standing for at least 2 years.
  3. Attended 60% of the meetings or make ups for the past 2 years.
  4. Serves on a committee, participates in at least one service project.
  5. Worked on a District or International program or project that has brought recognition to our club.
  6. The recipient can be a non member that has served the club in an outstanding manner.

One of this year’s honorees is Betty Polen.

President Frank Cahill said “Betty Polen chaired the Human and Spiritual for many years with great success. She took care of the Holiday cards with St. Jude. She ran the Ecumenical Breakfast with great ease and kept great records, and currently she runs the Breakfast registration and keeps the records for the 50/50 with precise energy for many years. She participates in most of our functions. Betty doesn’t miss a meeting – having perfect attendance for nine years.  I am honored to award a George F. Hixon Fellowship Award to Betty Polen.”

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Frank Cahill, Betty and President-elect Karen DeChristopher

In making the presentation for the second Hixon Honoree, Karen DeChristopher said “As a winner of last year’s Hixson award, I have the extreme pleasure of announcing one of this year’s winners.”

So, too make this a little more entertaining, I have chosen a word that I think describes this person.  You have to determine the winner based on the clues I am giving you.

Here’s a hint – listen to the words (there are six) and think about the first letter of each.

This recipient is:

Benevolent – caring, compassionate, kindhearted – not only in Kiwanis life but in day to day living

Intelligent – not everyone achieves at this level – congrats to those who do

Reliable –  authentic and trustworthy

Director – steps up, takes charge and gets it done

Enthusiastic – enjoys being part of Kiwanis and giving back to the community

Responsive – jumps in to meet the current need.

No, I am not describing our next Eagle or Gold Award winner.!  Any ideas?

Dr. Susan Elbin, during her acceptance speech

I am talking about our very own “birder” Dr. Susan Elbin.

Not only is Dr. Elbin all of the things I just mentioned, there are so many other important things that she has contributed for the betterment of our club.

Dr. Susan Elbin has run Trivia night with husband Greg for many years.

She has volunteered for the Sunshine card project for several years.

Her attendance has been superb for the past 3-4 years, with perfect attendance for the past two years.

She cooks frequently for Homeless Solutions, has attended most of our functions.

She is our current Director of Human and Spiritual and Club Vice President.

“Dr. Susan Elbin, I am honored to present you with our second Hixon award.  Congratulations and thank you for your dedication and commitment to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany,” said Karen DeChristopher.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Frank Cahill congratulating Dr. Susan Elbin on her achievements
Greg Elbin, Dr. Susan Elbin, Frank Cahill and Karen DeChristopher
Hixon Award Hall of Fame
Tablet of Honor Hall of Fame
Members Joyce Garrow, Khaled Madin, Carol Tiesi, Karen DeChristopher and Frank Cahill at the Annual Awards Dinner. Al Goldberg (left) joins in the celebration

Dr. Barbara Sargent joins Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany

PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Frank Cahill had the honor of inducting Dr. Barbara Sargent into our organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is 60 members strong and growing.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany supports nine K-Kids clubs, Lake Parsippany Elementary School, Eastlake Elementary School, Mt. Tabor Elementary School, Littleton Elementary School, Lake Hiawatha Elementary School, Troy Hills Elementary School, Northvail Elementary School, Knollwood School and Rockaway Meadow Elementary School, two builders clubs, Central Middle School and Brooklawn Middle School; two Key Clubs, Parsippany Hills High School and Parsippany High School and one Aktion Club.

They also raise funds and donates to the Parsippany Food Pantry, Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library, Parsippany PAL Youth Center, Parsippany High School Scholarship Program, Parsippany Hills High School Scholarship Program, Parsippany Child Day Center, Prevent Child Abuse-New Jersey, Camp Nejeda, NJ Sharing Network, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of Parsippany, Parsippany Project Graduation, Jersey Battered Women’s Services, Family Promise of Morris County, Parsippany Little League West, Parsippany Little League East to name a few.

Kiwanis Secretary Karen Gajewski places the Kiwanis pin on Dr. Barbara Sargent’s lapel

If you are interested in joining Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany contact, Frank Cahill at (862) 213-2200 or email flcahill@parsippanykiwanis.org.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets every Thursday at 7:15 a.m. at the Empire Diner at 1315 Route 46.  New members are always welcome.

 

Kiwanis K-Kids support Hannah Cerullo’s fundraiser

PARSIPPANY — Littleton School K-Kids came out to support Hannah Cerullo at the Charity Basketball game held in Parsippany Hills High School.

Anthony Caponegro and Jesse Nazziola had the opportunity to meet Mayor Michael Soriano and Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., during the game against Brooklawn Middle School Teachers vs. the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. It was an exciting game, with Brooklawn Middle Teachers winning 45-44 in overtime. (Click here to see related article.)

Hannah, a sixth grade student at Brooklawn Middle School, is the 11 year old daughter of Michael Cerullo of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, is battling cancer.

 

Brooklawn Middle School Teachers win Basketball Charity Game for Hannah

PARSIPPANY — The Brooklawn Middle School Teachers and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office hosted a Charity Basketball Game on Wednesday, January 24 at the Parsippany Hills High School Gymnasium, 20 Rita Drive, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. All of the proceeds from the fundraiser will go to help the family Hannah Cerullo, who is battling cancer.

Hannah, a sixth grade student at Brooklawn Middle School, is the 11 year old daughter of Michael Cerullo of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office is battling cancer.

The Brooklawn Middle School Teachers won 45-44 in overtime.

Kiwanis Club is collecting Coats and Socks for the Homeless

PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, January 24, 2018, the National Point-In-Time Count of the Homeless took place.  The survey counts anyone who is not in a permanent home.  Last year, there were over 8,500 persons classified as homeless in New Jersey, with nearly 2,000 being under the age of 18.  Nearly 600 of the homeless in New Jersey were veterans.  Over 1,400 persons were classified as “unsheltered”, meaning they were living in parks, cars, abandoned buildings, or on the street.  The remainder were living in emergency shelters, transitional housing or as temporary guests of others.  Approximately half of these homeless individuals were living within a 20-mile radius of Parsippany-Troy Hills.  Click here for additional details.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is dedicated to helping all children reach their full potential.  The children that are impacted by homelessness tend to fall behind in school, as the stress of their home situation makes learning difficult.  This makes it extremely difficult for them to reach their full potential.  Consequently, combating homelessness has become a priority for the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.  Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany has supported several organizations dedicated to this cause in the past, including Family Promise of Morris County, Homeless Solutions, and Jersey Battered Women’s Service (JBWS).

In honor of the 2018 National-Point-In-Count of the Homeless, The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, in partnership with Transforming a Life and The Tangible More, will be distributing winter coats and socks to the homeless this year, and are planning to keep collecting them for the duration of the winter.

Transforming a Life was started in 2016 by Zaki and Loretta Mustafa in Los Angeles, California.  Primarily through Facebook donations, they have distributed over 6,500 jackets to the homeless in southern California since forming.  This year, they have spread to Oregon, Mississippi, and New Jersey.

The Tangible More was started in January, 2017 by Emily Mulhaul as a positive and non-controversial reaction to the Women’s March. The Women’s March attracted over 3 million people and the marches took place in areas with high populations of homelessness. Emily believed if in one day the Women’s March could attract over 3 million people, that individuals, clubs, and organizations could just as easily accumulate 3 million donations. In 2017, The Tangible More donated over 1,000 items to the homeless to remind them, “we did not forget you when we marched past you.” (Click here for more information)

Donations are welcome, and can be made at Parsippany IHOP Restaurant, 792 Route 46, Boiling Springs Bank, 66 North Beverwyck Road or Synergy Chiropractic, 125 Madison Street, Boonton.  New or gently used coats and new white socks only please.

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time.  It is not religious based or partisan in any way.  The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets every Thursday at 7:15 a.m. at the Empire Diner at 1315 Route 46.  We are 60 members strong and growing.  New members are always welcome. (Click here for more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany)

Y’s Annual Polar Plunge Has Special Guest – Olympian Ryan Murphy

MOUNTAIN LAKES — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA recently held the annual Swim Team Polar Plunge in Mountain Lakes and raised over $25,000 to benefit kids programs at the Y. Three-time Olympic Gold Medalist, Ryan Murphy, was a special guest, giving an inspirational talk to the kids at Mountain Lakes High School, signing autographs, before everyone headed to the lake for the plunge.

Keira Cruz, Head Swim Coach at the Y with Ryan

Registration is Open for Parsippany Phoenix Lacrosse

0

PARSIPPANY —  Come and be a part of the Parsippany Phoenix. Registration for the Spring 2018 season is now open. There are teams for boys in grades K-8th and for girls in grades 3-8th. The season starts late February or early March and runs into the middle of June.

Teams typically practice two or three times a week.

The goal is to give players a chance to learn the fundamentals of lacrosse and the positive impact of team work and good sportsmanship on and off the field through a fun, positive coaching environment. Get involved in the fastest growing sport in the country and be part of the fun the game of lacrosse offers!

For more information click here.

Tractor Trailer stuck against traffic signal

PARSIPPANY — Traffic along Littleton Road and Halsey Road was backed up during morning rush hour on Wednesday, January 24.

Michael Brown, 27, Sanford, Florida was attempting to turn right on Halsey Road from Littleton Road when his tractor trailer got stuck against a traffic signal, causing the trailer to become stuck at the intersection. A heavy duty tow truck from Powder Mill Towing arrived on the scene and was able to pull the vehicle off the curb.

The traffic signal sustained minimal damage. General Electric was notified to have someone check on the condition of the traffic signal. The tractor trailer is owned by C & S Trucking, Inc., Sanford, Florida.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Office Thomas Armenti was the investigating officer.

The trailer was driven from the scene, and no summons were issued.

The trailer trying to turn on Halsey Road from Littleton Road
Parsippany Police block the road and detour traffic around the truck
The traffic light resting against the trailer
The truck was owned by C & S Trucking
The traffic light resting against the trailer

American Legion Post 249 needs your help

PARSIPPANY — American Legion NJ Post 249 Parsippany was organized to support Veterans, and is the largest war time Veterans service organization committed to sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, and advocating Patriotism, and honor throughout our United States.

Last month the main heating and cooling unit failed and is no longer repairable. The unit is 35 years old. The building is located at 91 North Beverwyck Road.

The veterans started to receive quotes and will need to raise $20,000 to replace this unit.

The unit sits on the roof and it’s a difficult job.

This hall is rented throughout the year for private parties and other events serving our community. The Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts use this hall for their meetings.

This hall is by far the largest source of income for American Legion Post 249. They are asking for your support.

To make a donation, click here.

Parsippany Town Hall Council Meeting from (01/23/2018)

 Parsippany Town Hall Council Meeting from (01/23/2018)

29-Year-Old Man Charged With Aggravated Sexual Assault

MORRIS PLAINS — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Borough of Morris Plains Police Chief Jason A. Kohn announce that Luis M. Sanango-Lazo, 29, Morris Plains, has been charged with Aggravated Sexual Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2(a)7, a crime of the first degree; Sexual Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2(c)1, a crime of the second degree; Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(a), a crime of the third degree, and Criminal Sexual Contact in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(b), a crime of the fourth degree.

This 29 year old defendant is alleged to have sexually assaulted an adult female who was known to him after she fell asleep in the defendant’s residence in Morris Plains.  When the victim woke up the following morning, she reportedly felt vaginal discomfort.  She responded to the Morristown Medical Center and submitted to an examination by a Forensic Nurse Examiner who obtained evidence. Thereafter, scientific evidence was obtained that led to the filing of the criminal charges against this Defendant.

The defendant was charged and is currently lodged at the Morris County Correctional Facility in accordance with Criminal Justice Reform.

Prosecutor Knapp would like to thank the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, the Borough of Morris Plains Police Department, and the New Jersey State Police whose efforts contributed to the investigation of the matter.

Anyone with information relating to this incident is asked to call Sgt. Marshall Wang of the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200 or Det. Ryan McKay of the Morris Plains Police Department at (973) 538-2284.

Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

7-11 applies to Board of Adjustment to open at busy intersection

PARSIPPANY — 240 Littleton Road Parsippany, LLC., has applied to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment to develop the property with one building as a 7-11 and one building for an unnamed tenant. They are seeking “C”, “D”, Preliminary and Final Major Site Plan approvals from the Board of Adjustment on Wednesday, March 7.

The application will build a building with a total square footage of 5,303. 7-11 will occupy 2,838 square foot and an unnamed tenant will occupy 2,654 square foot. The plans outlines a total of 31 parking spots, and will face Littleton Road.

The property will have an entrance and exit onto Parsippany Boulevard as well as Littleton Road.

The property at the corner of Parsippany Boulevard and Littleton Road is owned by the County of Morris and is not included in this project.

The property is currently owned by Fulton Bank of New Jersey. Previously Fulton Bank was constructing a bank branch on the property. In 2012, Fulton Bank applied to the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance for “Application to establish a branch office to be located at 240 Littleton Road, Parsippany.” The application was approved. Shortly thereafter, Fulton Bank started closing branches throughout New Jersey and the plans to open the Parsippany branch were abandoned.

Fulton Bank has offices in Madison, Lake Hopatcong and Rockaway. They have a network of community banks throughout New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia.

Parsippany resident Pat Petracca has been requesting of the Township Council to pass an ordinance that would prohibit 24-hour businesses in residential area. 7-11 stores are open 24 hours a day.

Troy Garden Apartments borders two sides of the proposed location. It was built in 1960 and contains 112 Apartment Units, all two story buildings.

The red area marks the Block 297, Lot 8 area to be used
The dirt and tarred area is property owned by the County of Morris

7-Eleven is an American-Japanese international chain of convenience stores, headquartered in Irving, Texas, that operates, franchises, and licenses some 56,600 stores in eighteen countries.

The closest 7-11 to the proposed location is at 31 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha and 959 Route 53, Morris Plains. Both locations are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Ithaca College Students Named to Fall Semester Dean’s List

Lauren Astor

PARSIPPANY — Ithaca College congratulates students named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2017 semester.

Lauren Astor, a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School Class of 2015, a Emerging Media major, was named to the Dean’s List in the Roy H. Park School of Communications.

Annemarie Lillis, a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School Class of 2015, a Television-Radio major, was named to the Dean’s List in the Roy H. Park School of Communications.

From day one, Ithaca College prepares students for success through hands-on experience with internships, research and study abroad. Its integrative curriculum builds bridges across disciplines and uniquely blends liberal arts and professional study. Located in New York’s Finger Lakes region, the College is home to 6,100 undergraduate and 460 graduate students.

Letter to the editor: Knoll Golf Instructor on Town Payroll

parsippany focusDear Editor:

What can my Crystal Ball Transparency Committee Advisor tell me about this paid for “golf instructor” believe Councilman dePierro said $68,000 a year. Should not well off golfers hire their own instructors; why should we be paying a salary to allow the instructor to also make fees and tips on the side? This is ok, but filling the job of a ‘”qualified” forester for the Parks & Forestry department caused opposition from the same two council officials? 

Where is the job description, duties, responsibilities, pay for this created job position? Also how much more other town man hours go into Knoll Golf Course from Parks and other departments; including materials, supplies, fertilizers? What environmental impact does the knoll have on the River Sensitive Area it is enclosed in? Can improvements be made in this aspect? 

Golf courses are only for golfers, yet the Knoll was purchased with Green Acres Funds. Only in winter can others use the landscape for recreation. This purchase of a golf course with green acre funding, would not now be allowed for the here mentioned reasons. It is public money for a private interest golf. 

Nick Homyak
Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034

Family Trivia Night Fundraiser for PHS Band Boosters

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany High School Band Boosters will be hosting a Family Trivia Night fundraiser on Saturday, February 10 at the Parsippany PAL Youth Center, 33 Baldwin Road.

Teams of eight will compete to see who comes out on top with categories that span a broad range of topics. Gather your own team or we can team you up. All ages are welcome.

Doors open at 6:15 p.m., bring your own food and drinks (no alcohol permitted). Trivia will begin at 7:00 p.m. Mini tricky tray, 50/50, and more fun throughout the night!  Boosters will supply paper goods and dessert/tea/coffee.

Tickets before January 31 for the best pricing:

  • Adults $20.00
  • Children 8-18 years old: $12.00
  • Children seven and under are free
  • Save with a Family Pass – 2 adults and up to 4 children for $60 before 1/31/18

After Janaury 31 and pricing at the door:

  • Adults $25.00
  • Children 8-18 years old $15.00
  • Children seven and under are fee
  • NO Family pricing after February 1.

Click here to purchase tickets.  You can pay with credit cards or contact Betty Wyka by clicking here if you wish to pay by cash or check.

The mini tricky tray will have a limited number of higher value baskets, tickets will be sold at the event.

If you would like to advertise in the program, contact Betty Wyka by clicking here.

Rates are $30 for a quarter page, $50 for half page, $75 for a full page. Info/artwork due no later than January 31.

The PHS Band Boosters goal is to support the activities of the PHS Bands throughout the year. Funds raised go towards activity support and scholarships.

Target holding job fairs for Parsippany new store

PARSIPPANY — Target will begin hiring approximately 160 team members for its newest Parsippany small-format store, located at 1159 Route 46.

The store is located in the Troy Hills Shopping Center and is expected to open in April 2018. This new store will be Target’s second small-format store in New Jersey, joining the Closter location.

A third, in Haddon Township, will open in July. Target has prioritized opening small-format stores to serve guests in dense suburban neighborhoods and urban areas with assortments that are tailored to meet the needs of local guests.

Architect drawings of the front of the proposed Target Store

The Parsippany store will provide guests with a quick-trip shopping experience and offer a curated assortment of fresh groceries, apparel, home, beauty essentials and more. “We are building a talented team of 160 new team members who will help serve families and residents of Parsippany.

Target provides team members with meaningful opportunities to build and develop skills for their careers, and we look forward to growing our team to help serve the Parsippany community,” said MaryKate Geraghty, store team leader, Target. Target offers market competitive wages to our team members in cities across the country and recently increased its minimum hourly wage for all team members to $11.00, along with a commitment to increasing the minimum hourly wage to $15.00 by the end of 2020.

This investment in the team will allow Target to continue to recruit and retain strong team members and provide an elevated experience for its guests and in the communities it serves. Store leaders will conduct pre-scheduled interviews with applicants and discuss Target’s dynamic, team-oriented culture. Interested candidates are encouraged visit Target.com/careers to apply in advance of the job fair dates, and may also apply in person on those days.

Job fair event will be held:
January 31 from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
February 2 from 10:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
February 15 from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
February 16 from 10:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

The Job Fair will be held at Embassy Suites by Hilton, 909 Parsippany Boulevard
Parsippany.

A typical Target sign

Two Parsippany Students Named Music Students of the Month

PARSIPPANY — Students from Parsippany, Randolph, Morristown, Kinnelon, Mendham, Boonton, New Vernon, and Roxbury were honored as Mayo Performing Arts Center’s Music Students of the Month – Outstanding Percussionists — prior to the Saturday, January 20 performance by Recycled Percussion.

The students were recognized for their achievements on stage prior to the concert and had the opportunity to meet the band.

Students were nominated by their teachers and were chosen by the Theatre’s Education Department based on their commitment to and excellence in the performing arts. The Theatre will honor a group of students every month throughout the season and invites area teachers to nominate students for this honor. Students will be invited to perform at a year-end recital in June.

The 2017-2018 Music Student of the Month program is supported by The Walter F. and Alice Gorham Foundation, Inc.

Music Students of the Month are:

Romelo (RJ) Paguntalan
Grade 11, Parsippany High School; Parsippany; Nominated by Gregory Dalakian

RJ Paguntalan has been a dedicated member of our instrumental music program at PHS since his freshman year.  He has participated in Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Marching Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Pit Orchestra. He has also served as Marching Bass Drum captain for the past two years. RJ has grown immensely as a percussionist since entering high school. He is a great role model for his peers and always helps younger members improve their skills. He is always willing to volunteer whenever we need an extra percussionist on concert pieces or to help out the PHS Bands in any way. RJ is a highly motivated student who gives selflessly of his time and talents, and would be very deserving of this honor.

Rahul Nair
Grade 7, Brooklawn Middle School; Parsippany; Nominated by Joseph Stella

Rahul is a percussionist in our seventh grade band and has consistently been one of the strongest members of the percussion section since he started middle school last year. He has done very well learning the many types of percussion instruments including the mallet instruments. He has also successfully auditioned to play the drum set in our jazz band this year. I believe Rahul would be a fitting recipient of the Outstanding Percussionist recognition.

Ryan Borinski
Grade 8, Randolph Middle School; Randolph; Nominated by Tom Davidson

Ryan Borinski started out playing viola in fourth grade and switched to percussion in fifth grade.  Once at Randolph Middle School, he continued with percussion with great enthusiasm and success.  During sixth grade, Ryan was the only sixth grade student invited to join the RMS Percussion Ensemble, an ensemble typically consisting of seventh & eighth grade percussionists. Ryan has been accepted into honor bands including the North Jersey School Music Association, Elementary honors Band in sixth grade, NJSMA J. Region Band in seventh grade, and North Jersey Jr. Area Band in eighth grade.  At Randolph Middle School, Ryan is in his third  year of Percussion Ensemble, and in his first year of Jazz Ensemble. He has an excellent work ethic which will help him continue to succeed as a percussionist in the Randolph band program and in his other musical endeavors.

Joseph Caputo
Grade 12, Morristown High School; Morristown; Nominated by Michael Russo

Joseph has  been involved in all aspects of the Band Program and he has become a respected upperclassmen in the Music Department. Joseph is the Principal Percussionist in the Morristown HS Wind Ensemble, a Hornist in the MHS Symphonic Band and a Section Leader for the Marching band. He is a drummer with the Spectrum Jazz Ensemble and will also be performing in the Pit Orchestra. He also performs with the Mantra Youth Percussion Ensemble, the Rutgers Youth Percussion Ensemble and the Delbarton School Abbey Orchestra.  Joseph plans to study music in college.

Braeden Carroll
Grade 8, Pearl R. Miller Middle School; Kinnelon; Nominated by Brian Scanlon

Braeden has constantly demonstrated the desire to be a positive force in our school ensembles. This is evident in his participating in our audition only honor band, called A.M. Band. This audition only group is comprised of the best sixth through eighth grade students in our school music program. Braeden is now on his third year with this group. Braeden has also been a member of the North Jersey Area Band for 2016-2017 and will be back for 2017-2018. Braeden demonstrates well rounded percussionist as he has flourished in all areas, especially Timpani. Braeden is also a skilled mallet percussion player.  His respect for the craft if exemplified in his desire to explore the instruments outside the most popular aspect of percussion being drums.

Zachary Esposito
Grade 12, Morristown-Beard High School; Morristown; Nominated by Dr. John Girvin

Zachary has been an active participant in the Morristown-Beard School Performing Arts Department his entire high school career.  In that time, he has been an indispensable member of the MBS Jazz Ensemble, playing drum set with remarkable talent and intensity.  His high level of musicality has really enabled the band to swing wonderfully.  He has an innate sense of time, and is able to switch between styles and tempos in a professional manner.  Zach has been featured drum set soloist in many of the band’s selections, and is able to play both prepared and improvised solos with great ease.  In addition to his playing in the jazz idiom, Zach is a truly modern drummer, as best exemplified in his work with the MBS Contemporary Music Workshop Concerts.  These concerts of present-day rock and pop music are student-led and rehearsed, and he has been a tremendous leader.  Zach is also adept on mallets, and has been featured as a marimba soloist with the MBS Percussion Ensemble as well as with the Jazz Ensemble.  Finally, Zach has bene a fine mentor to the younger drummers in these ensembles, and he has been a terrific help in class getting these students up to speed.

Laura Fagan
Grade 8, Mountain View Middle School; Mendham Nominated by Leigh Carpenter

Laura Fagan has one of the most pure hearts for percussion I have ever seen.  From the moment she auditioned for our percussion section, she has no other objective in her mind than that she would play percussion.  Laura’s passion for the percussion only grew each year as she in fifth grade worked extra hard so that she could play in the seventh/eighth grade drum solo. She even went to a high school football game and got so excited that she has had plans for years now about which instrument she wants to play when she joins the Marching Band in high school.  Laura makes special notes in her music to help herself to master it. She pays attention to every detail in the music.  She gets excited about new mallets, sticks, gear, and new types of percussion music.  It is a breath of fresh air to have such a wonderful music student.

Joseph Hecht
Grade 10, Randolph High School; Randolph; Nominated by Carmine Fusaro

Joseph is an active member of the Percussion Ensemble, Marching Band, and Concert Band.  Joe fell in love with percussion when first joining the music program in sixth grade.  He expanded upon this passion for musicianship by performing in the middle school plays.  Last year Joseph had the honor of performing on a national level with the only New Jersey percussion ensemble invited to perform at Yamaha’s Music for All Festival in Indianapolis.  In his spare time he enjoys arranging music from video game soundtracks for the marimba and xylophone as well as composing marching band cadences.

Jack Liska
Grade 7, John Hill School; Boonton; Nominated by Yvonne Manca

Jack is a dedicated music student that excels in the area of percussion.  He has been playing the drums since he was a young child.  He is capable of reading extremely difficult rhythms with accuracy and precision. Jack also plays in the town band called Harmony and takes private lessons outside of school.

Gavin McGinn
Grade 8, Harding Township School; New Vernon; Nominated by Tim Alworth

Gavin is a wonderful young musician.  He is a fantastic percussionist and drum set player.  I’ve worked with Gavin for five years and he has been my first chair percussionist for three years and a featured soloist in the jazz band during that same time. He has a great feel for the pocket and groove which is rare for a young player. He is an enthusiastic player and exactly what a music teacher looks for in their students.

Jonah Nack
Grade 12, Roxbury High School; Roxbury; Nominated by Jeffrey Conrad

Jonah is a fine young man.  He was the marching band battery percussion section leader and is also the vibraphone soloist with our top jazz band.  He is an outstanding young musician who practices his craft daily. He is also always willing to help other students and our band program in any way he can. He acts as a peer tutor to help younger students who cannot afford to take private lessons. He also has an independent study in his schedule which allows him to come to the middle school and assist the middle school percussionists.  Students and staff alike admire not only his skill as a musician, but also his sense of humor, his kindness, and his generosity. We are fortunate to have him as such an integral part of our band program.

Matthew Vollmuth
Grade 12, West Morris Mendham High School; Mendham; Nominated by Timothy Beadle

Matt Vollmuth is one of the best student leaders I have ever taught. This year our drumline was the youngest, least experienced group of percussionists we had ever had in the marching band.  Knowing this, Matt began leading drumline-only rehearsals in April.   He met with younger students during lunch to practice.  He made sure everyone had their music before summer vacation and then started scheduling summer practices.  By the time the season began, the drumline already knew most of their music and Matt had them getting to every rehearsal an hour early to start working. As a student in symphonic band, concert band, advanced wind ensemble, jazz ensemble, and marching band, Matt has always handled his own music. He is always personally prepared and never backs down from challenging music.  What made the drumline so successful this year is that he instilled that same fearless work ethic into the other younger students.

Mayo Performing Arts Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, presents a wide range of programs that entertain, enrich, and educate the diverse population of the region and enhance the economic vitality of Northern New Jersey. The 2017-2018 season is made possible, in part, by a grant the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as support received from the F.M. Kirby Foundation and numerous corporations, foundations and individuals. The Mayo Performing Arts Center has been designated a Major Presenting Organization by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Mayo Performing Arts Center was named 2016 Outstanding Historic Theatre by the League of Historic American Theatres, and is ranked in the top 50 mid-sized performing arts centers by Pollstar Magazine.

Shake Shack to open in Waterview Marketplace

PARSIPPANY —  As reported on Parsippany Focus on November 27, (click here for full story) RD Management LLC, one of the nation’s largest privately held real-estate development and management organizations; JMF Properties; and Ripco Real Estate Corp. officially signed a lease with Shake Shack at their Waterview Marketplace, located at Route 46 and Waterview Boulevard. Shake Shack will occupy a 3,500-square-foot free standing site on the 16-acre property. The center is approximately 150,000 square feet and scheduled to open in late 2018.

“Known for its classic American menu options and lively experience, Shake Shack is sure to bring great energy to Waterview Marketplace and provide a community-gathering space for local residents and employees to eat and hangout,” said Richard Birdoff, principal and president of RD Management. “As we near completion of the center, we’re looking forward to announcing new businesses that will accompany Shake Shack and anchor tenant Whole Foods at this vibrant retail destination.”

Strategically located at the jug-handle intersection of Waterview Boulevard and Route 46 with nearby access to Routes 202, 80, and 287, Waterview Marketplace is in a high-density, high-income trade area, bordered by Mountain Lakes. It’s also surrounded by large office parks and complementary retail, with trees and lakes adjacent to the center. People from well beyond the Parsippany trade area will be able to enjoy Waterview and its shops, as it has easy access to several major highways in North Jersey.

“As a brand name restaurant with a loyal customer base, Shake Shack will be an excellent addition to the thriving mix of retail we are assembling here at Waterview Marketplace,” said Joseph M. Forgione, founder and principal of JMF Properties. “We are dedicated to the continued growth of the property and we look forward to delivering more shops, restaurants and other businesses of value to Morris County consumers.”

“We pursued Shake Shack for Waterview because they are an exciting restaurant operator on the scene right now that will generate traffic from both families and people that live and/or work in the trade area,” said Todd Cooper, co-founder of Ripco Real Estate Corp. “We are confident they will succeed at Waterview and help us create a well-rounded mix of merchants at the shopping center.”

RD Management owns 21 properties in New Jersey and has more than 150 properties in its national portfolio. Additional anchor opportunities and in-line spaces are available for lease at Waterview Marketplace. Those interested can contact Darren Sasso at (212) 265-6600 x354 or dsasso@rdmanagement.com.