Chief of Police Richard Pantina Responds to Active Shooter Preparedness Concerns

Dear Editor:

On February 26 a letter, I wrote to the Editor of Parsippany Focus titled “Urgent Questions Arise On Parsippany’s Active Shooter Preparedness”, was published. Before submitting that letter, I also submitted three OPRA requests to the Parsippany Police Department requesting information about the weapons and training provided to the Parsippany Police Department in preparation for a potential active shooter event     

All three of the OPRA requests were denied “due to exemptions including Security Measures and Surveillance Techniques exemption, Emergency or Security Information or Procedures exemption, along with the Personnel File exemption for the long gun/rifle training for the officers”

The OPRA denial response to me, directed and approved by Chief of Police Richard Pantina, went on to state:

“However, I would like to assure you that we have a Standard Operation Procedure (SOP) that covers Active Attacks, along with responding to incidents involving schools.

As a Department, we are being as transparent as we can, without compromising the safety and security of our officers and the public since providing the information you wish to review would expose our tactics, specific training, and how many officers would respond carrying specific weapons types. 

Just to touch on the training our officers receive, besides computer-based training, in the last year alone, our officers have completed multiday training sessions with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on how to respond to active shooter-type events, along with Rescue Task Force training with the assistance of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and Morris County Office of Emergency Management. These trainings cover a litany of topics from response methods/tactics interoperability with other agencies, including Par-Troy EMS, along with a medical component so we can treat not only ourselves but others. Our Communications personnel as well have received training to better prepare them to handle such situations. We are being proactive as a department to keep our officers and communication personnel well informed, trained, and provided with the best tools to complete their duties daily.”     

While the above comments from the Parsippany Police Department are most welcome and comforting, I would urge the Town Council, led by former police officer Paul Carifi, to meet in Closed Session to review Police Director/Mayor Barberio’s go forward plans to ensure that the Parsippany Police Department has the resources it needs to complete their duties daily.

As President Reagan was fond of saying “Trust, but verify”       

Bob Crawford

Parsippany Police Issue Alert Regarding Newest Scam Targeting Residents

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department is warning residents about a new scam.

The Morris County Sheriff’s Office recently had several concerning calls from residents who were targeted in a phone scam. Callers posing as Sheriff’s Officers tell the would-be victim that they need to deliver money, or they will face immediate arrest. The scammers use actual Morris County Sheriff’s Officer names and the victim’s caller I.D. is manipulated to appear to be coming from the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

Chief Richard Pantina and Sheriff James M. Gannon want to remind you NEVER to provide sensitive personal information, money, or access to your assets to any unknown individual. Also, please discuss this scam with family members who may be vulnerable to this type of crime.

Please contact the Morris County Sheriff’s Office at (973) 285-6600, or the Parsippany Police Department at (973) 263-4300 with any questions.

Police Swift Action Recovers Stolen Car, Arrests Female Suspect

PARSIPPANY — On the morning of Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 7:27 a.m., Parsippany-Troy Hills Police were dispatched to a residence on Norman Avenue following a report from the homeowner that his 2015 Dodge Caravan, which had been idling in his driveway, was taken by a woman. The homeowner described the suspect as a woman clad in a black and blue jacket, sporting Crocs.

In their search for the suspect, officers found the missing vehicle at the intersection of Hopkins Court and Kelly Lane. Nearby, in a wooded area close to where the vehicle was recovered, they encountered a woman whose appearance matched the suspect’s description.

With the aid of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Section, a brief investigation confirmed her identity as the culprit—34-year-old Alexis A. Cap from Lake Hiawatha.

Cap was arrested and brought to the Police Station for processing. She was charged with one count of fourth-degree unlawful taking of a conveyance via a summons-complaint. Following the charges, Cap was released and awaits her court date.

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, this Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Police Quick Action Leads to Arrest in Parsippany Auto Burglary Case

PARSIPPANY — On the evening of Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at 7:43 p.m., Parsippany-Troy Hills Police were called to the scene of an ongoing auto burglary at the Morris Hills Shopping Center, situated at 3035-3189 Route 46.

The car owner reported catching a suspect inside his 2006 Ford Mustang, exploring the glove compartment while it was parked at the shopping center lot. Upon being confronted, the intruder fled on foot towards the Tivoli Gardens apartments located just behind the shopping complex. The suspect was described by the victim as a male between 5’10” and 6’00” tall, with a dark complexion and distinctive tattoos on his face and neck, wearing a maroon hooded sweatshirt and red sweatpants.

Shortly after the incident, Patrol Sergeant J. Magahan spotted an individual matching the suspect’s description running into the woods behind the Whole Foods Plaza on Waterview Boulevard. Officers quickly set up a perimeter and initiated a search of the area.

Patrol Officer D. Spadavecchia discovered the suspect, later identified as 28-year-old Avery C. Murch from Parsippany, hiding behind a tree in the wooded strip between 45 Waterview Boulevard and Route 46.

Murch was apprehended and taken to Police Headquarters for processing, where he was charged with one count of third-degree burglary. Following the charges, he was released on a summons complaint and is currently awaiting his court appearance.

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, this Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Radar Operation Catches Speeder with Active Warrant

PARSIPPANY — On Monday, March 4, 2024, at 11:46 a.m., during a radar enforcement operation on Edwards Road, Traffic Officer P. Levi noticed a 2018 Honda Accord speeding.

Following a vehicle stop and identification of the driver as 22-year-old Emmanuel Reyes-Ramirez from Parsippany, a check of his credentials revealed an outstanding $750 traffic warrant from the Madison Municipal Court.

Emmanuel was arrested and taken to the station for processing. After posting bail, he was released and is awaiting his court date.

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, this Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Suspect Flees After Armed Heist at Local Business; Police Seek Public’s Help

PARSIPPANY — On Friday, March 1, 2024, at 6:51 p.m., an armed robbery was reported at a business located at 1280 Route 46. Responding to the call, officers were informed by dispatch that the suspect had already left the scene. The individual was described as a tall, slender man dressed entirely in black, with a white trucker-style hat and white sneakers, and was armed with a handgun.

Upon reaching the location, a multi-unit building, officers promptly evacuated the people inside and searched both the inside and outside of the premises for the suspect, but were unable to find him. The Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Section, along with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, were called in to process the scene and assist in searching the area. Additionally, the description of the suspect was shared with the State Police and nearby agencies to aid in the search, although these efforts did not lead to the suspect’s capture.

Fortunately, there were no injuries reported during the incident, which remains under investigation. The Parsippany Police Department urges anyone with information to contact their Investigative Branch at (973) 263-4300.

Unexpected Wake-Up Call: Man Sleeping in Laundromat Faces Arrest

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officers were dispatched to The Laundry at 170 Parsippany Road on March 1 at 11:36 a.m., following reports of a man found sleeping inside the laundromat.

Upon their arrival, the officers awakened the man and ascertained that he was not engaged in any laundry activities.

During their interaction, the man initially provided several different names. However, after conducting a brief investigation, officers were able to confirm his identity as Joseph J. Norton, a 29-year-old resident of Parsippany.

Subsequent to a warrant check, it was discovered that Norton had an outstanding criminal warrant for $2,500 issued by the Parsippany Municipal Court. He was subsequently arrested and taken to Police Headquarters for processing.

After being processed, Norton was assigned a new court date and was released on his recognizance, with a court appearance pending.

Connect, Learn, and Dine: Attend the ‘Networking Business Bash’ at Ravello

MORRIS COUNTY — Experience an evening of professional networking, vendor presentations, and indulgence in a three-course Italian dinner at the upcoming “Networking Business Bash.” Hosted at Ravello, situated at 138 Eagle Rock Avenue, East Hanover, this event is scheduled for Wednesday, March 20, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Attendees are warmly welcomed to partake in this thoughtfully organized occasion aimed at nurturing connections among business professionals, fostering enduring relationships. Explore insights into holistic and integrative healing practices, thoughtfully tailored to enhance everyday life, courtesy of our esteemed vendors.

Anthony Spiaggia, associated with RetireMD, specializes in financial planning for individuals aged 20-40. Motivated by the financial challenges faced by his generation (Gen Z) and millennials, he entered the financial planning field. Recent reports indicate a surge in 30-40-year-olds applying for entry-level jobs, signaling potential difficulties for those neglecting retirement planning in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Spiaggia advocates for proactive financial solutions to alleviate these burdens.

Beyond finance, Spiaggia is passionate about health and wellness, maintaining a daily exercise routine and nutritious diet. While lacking formal certifications in health, he collaborates with certified partners. Spiaggia organizes networking events in partnership with the Wellness Gala, featured on News 12, aimed at fostering connections and sharing holistic wellness practices. These events serve to unite individuals for personal and business growth, emphasizing natural healing remedies.

Committed to community betterment, Spiaggia’s events facilitate opportunities for business connections, sponsorships, and collaborations. The focus lies not on RetireMD or himself but on creating meaningful experiences for all attendees. He extends an invitation to join the upcoming event, details of which are provided in the accompanying flyer. Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.

Parsippany Police Launch Search for Missing 29-Year-Old Jigar Prajapati

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department is currently seeking Jigar Prajapati, a 29-year-old individual who left his residence in the Lake Parsippany Section of town at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 13th, and has not returned.

His last known sighting occurred at the Hanover Marriott (Route 10) around 12:10 a.m., according to reports from the front desk staff. Jigar is without his cell phone or any credit cards.

He is described as a 5’7″ male with black hair, weighing approximately 160 pounds. He was last seen wearing a grey t-shirt, blue jeans, and black sandals.

If you have any information, please contact the Parsippany Police Department’s Communication Center at 973-263-4300 extension 0.

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Licensing and Vehicle Centers will be Closed on March 23

MORRIS COUNTY — Starting Monday, March 25, New Jersey will join the State-to-State (S2S) Verification Service to further strengthen the security of driver licenses and IDs issued in the Garden State.

By joining the program, New Jersey will finalize its compliance with the federal REAL ID Act.

“Ensuring one driver has one license is the goal of the State-to-State service,” said Latrecia Littles-Floyd, Acting Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC). “With New Jersey signing on to the program, the Motor Vehicle Commission will enhance the integrity of the licensing process here and in other states, leading to safer roads and better identity theft protections that benefit everyone.”

For additional information about S2S, including answers to frequently asked questions, visit the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) website. New Jersey will be the 40th state to join the S2S service.

To bring the S2S service online, required NJMVC system maintenance and updates will take place from Saturday, March 23, through Sunday, March 24.

This will result in the following NJMVC service impacts that weekend:

  • All NJMVC agencies (Licensing and Vehicle Centers) will be closed on Saturday, March 23. Appointments will not be scheduled, and no customers will be serviced at agencies that day.
  • State inspection stations will remain open and on normal operations Saturday, March 23.
  • From March 23 to 24, limited online services will be available at the Commission’s website, NJMVC.gov. Online license/ID transactions and changes of address will not be accessible. Some online vehicle transactions that do not require a change of address will be accessible.
  • State and law enforcement access to NJMVC systems will not be affected during the system upgrade.

All NJMVC online services will resume normal functionality by 8:00 p.m. Sunday, March 24, and all NJMVC agencies and facilities will resume normal operations on Monday, March 25.

For motor vehicle services, appointment scheduling, and more NJMVC information, visit NJMVC.gov.

Morristown Man Arrested for DUI After Being Found Asleep in Middle of Route 10

MORRIS COUNTY — A Morristown man was arrested on Monday night after he and his passenger were found asleep in the middle of Route 10 in Denville Township.

On March 11, around 11:46 p.m., police responded to a report of a motor vehicle stopped in the center lane on Route 10 eastbound, with the driver and passenger appearing to be asleep. Upon arrival, officers located the vehicle and found the driver and passenger asleep inside.

Following a brief investigation, the driver, identified as Milton Gonzalez, 21, of Morristown, was arrested for driving while intoxicated. Gonzalez faces charges of driving under the influence, reckless driving, careless driving, having open containers in a motor vehicle, and obstructing traffic.

He was released pending a court appearance.

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, this Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

CCM Dean Recognized for ‘S.H.I.N.E. Award’

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) Dean of the School of Health Professions and Natural Sciences, Dr. Maria Isaza, has been recognized as a S.H.I.N.E. (Serves, Helps, Inspires, Nurtures, and Excels) Award recipient by Child & Family Resources.

Dr. Isaza received the award for the S.H.I.N.E. Educator of the Year in the Higher Education category on Thursday, March 7 at the annual S.H.I.N.E. Educator of the Year Awards Gala.

High-Profile Gathering at Parsippany TownHall Signifies Start of Holy Month of Ramadan

PARSIPPANY — The cold and inclement weather may have pushed the ceremony inside, but Mayor Barberio was happy to welcome Parsippany’s Muslim Community to TownHall to mark the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan on Sunday, March 10th.

Ramadan is a holy month that is dedicated to fasting, prayer, quality time, reflection, and charity. Ramadan is the most important month in the Islamic calendar. It’s the month in which the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. During Ramadan, Muslims around the world fast from sunrise to sunset.

Also joining in the inspiring gathering were many of Morris County’s elected officials, such as Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Morris County Commissioners Deborah Smith and Tayfun Selen, Surrogate Heather Darling, Kellie Doucette from Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill’s office, Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President Frank Neglia and Parsippany Councilmen Matt McGrath and Justin Musella. Also, former Council President Michael dePierro was in attendance.

“This was such a joyful and motivational event,” said Mayor James Barberio. “We can all reflect on the message of doing good, doing for others, and striving to be a better person. I wish Ramadan Kareem, or blessed Ramadan, to all my Muslim friends and neighbors.”

The event was organized by The Islamic Culture Community Center (ICCC), the Muslim Professional Group (MPG), and the Muslim Community of Parsippany

Lamia Elharairi, founder and executive director of MPG, Muslims Professional Group
Ahmed Kandil

Photo Gallery On Display of Troy Meadows at Library

PARSIPPANY — A photo gallery of Troy Meadows is currently on exhibit for viewing at the Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library, located at 449 Halsey Road, until the end of March 2024.

This showcase features a collection of photographs all captured within the bounds of Troy Meadows Preserve in Parsippany. It represents a singular vision of the diverse plant and animal life, as well as the varied landscapes, that constitute one of Morris County’s remaining natural refuges.

Spanning 2,600 acres in Northern New Jersey, Troy Meadows is a vast tract of conserved land primarily overseen by Wildlife Preserves, Inc. It serves as a vital habitat for a broad spectrum of wildlife.

Photographs captured in Troy Meadows are part of the exhibit on display at the Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library.

Artist Profile Dave Blinder, an advocate for open spaces and a local nature photographer, has contributed his talents to this exhibit. Dave actively volunteers with Protect Our Wetlands and Woods, Denville Community Media, and the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, among other organizations.

The exhibit was Matted and Framed at Revelation Gallery located at 27 Broadway, Denville.

Dr. Robert Zufall, Leader in Healthcare Clinics, Dies at Age 99

MORRIS COUNTY — Fran Palm, President and CEO of Zufall Health, alongside the Board of Directors, sadly announce the sudden passing of our beloved Founder, Robert Zufall, MD, affectionately known as Dr. Bob. Dr. Bob peacefully departed this life surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, just three months short of his 100th birthday.

His loss is deeply felt by his family, the health center, and the entire community. Dr. Bob, predeceased by his cherished wife, Kay, is survived by his five children, nine grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

His legacy lives on through the countless colleagues, patients, and community members who have benefited from the care provided by the health center bearing his name. “Dr. Bob’s optimism and warmth persisted until his final moments,” stated Palm.

“We are committed to honoring his extraordinary legacy of service in every patient interaction.” Further details about Dr. Bob’s remarkable life will be shared in an upcoming obituary. We invite you to share your fondest memories of Dr. Bob below, celebrating his lifelong dedication to serving the community.

Donations in his memory can be made by clicking here.

Rain Can’t Quench St. Patrick’s Day Spirit in Morris County

MORRIS COUNTY — On Saturday, March 9, crowds lined South Street, Morristown Green, and Washington Street to celebrate a parade rich with Irish heritage, led by Morris Plains Grand Marshall Jack Haren.

As the parade drew nearer, laughter and excited chatter filled the parking lot behind Town Hall, undeterred by the moisture in the air. Although the event is alcohol-free, parade-goers were greeted with the cheerful offer of a free beer as they turned from South Street towards the Green.

🍀 Eileen and Jack Haren lead the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Morristown! 🎉

Jack Haren, a longtime resident of Morris Plains, was honored on February 17 by the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of Morris County. This marked the first-ever “publicity” parade in Morris Plains, celebrating Haren’s selection to lead the renowned St. Patrick’s Day parade in Morristown.

By 11:00 a.m., South Street was alive with 10,000 shades of green, from flags and hoodies to Lucky Charms t-shirts

By 11:00 a.m., South Street was alive with 10,000 shades of green, from flags and hoodies to Lucky Charms t-shirts, despite the cold, wet weather. Promptly at noon, the parade kicked off from the Morristown Municipal Building, winding its way around the Morristown Green and up Washington Street, passing by the Morris County courthouse before culminating at the high school.

Morris County Sheriff’s ’63 Chevy Impala

Among the participants, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon proudly marched in a kilt, while Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty and Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop shared an umbrella.

Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty and Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop joined the procession, marching alongside a jubilant crowd, embodying the camaraderie and unity of the occasion. 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♂️🎉
Morris County Commissioners Stephen Shaw, Deborah Smith, and Mountains Lakes Resident Chris Ilic

The spirit of the parade remained undeterred by the weather, as it has since its move from Wharton to Morristown in 1991. Organized by the Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick of Morris County and the Irish American Association of North West Jersey, the event continued to thrive.

☘️ The Sarina family was fully decked out for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade! 🌧️ Nothing could dampen their spirits, not even the rain! ☔️
Morris Plains Chick-fil-A proudly joined the festivities as one of the vibrant participants in the annual Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade, adding to the lively spirit of the celebration with their presence. 🍀🎉
Members of The Rory O’Moore School of Pipes and Drums, an educational organization dedicated to nurturing the art of the “Great Highland Bagpipe” and drums, proudly march in the parade. Their mission encompasses teaching and learning not only the bagpipe but also the intricacies of the snare, tenor, and bass drums, enriching the cultural fabric of the event with their musical prowess. 🎶🥁🍀
Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen shares his umbrella with Chris Ilic
🍀 The Market Street Mission proudly marched in the Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade! 🎉 Since 1889, they’ve been transforming the lives of the homeless, poor, and those battling addiction, fueled by the power of Christ and the unwavering support of our community. 🌟
Morris Plains Chick-fil-A proudly joined the festivities as one of the vibrant participants in the annual Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade, adding to the lively spirit of the celebration with their presence. 🍀🎉

🍀⚾ The Morristown Shamrocks Baseball team is out in full force! ⚾🍀
Morris County Democrats walking during the parade
Morris County Sheriff’s Department
🐾 Volunteers from the Morris County Seeing Eye walk with their pups! 🐶 The Seeing Eye organization breeds and raises puppies to become guide dogs, trains them to assist blind individuals, and educates both the dogs and their handlers. They also conduct vital research on canine health and development. 🌟

Unveiling The Perfect Moments To Wear Your Strawberry Perfume

The sweet and playful aroma of strawberries evokes images of sunny days, picnics in the park, and the irresistible allure of summer treats. Naturally, strawberry perfume is often categorized as a summer fragrance, embodying a carefree and vibrant spirit.

However, the versatility of a strawberry perfume extends far beyond the confines of summer, offering a delightful and unexpected twist to various occasions throughout the year. Let’s explore some of these moments when you can wear your favorite strawberry perfume.

Beyond The Summer Sun

While a fresh strawberry scent can refresh and uplift your spirits during the warmer months, its charm doesn’t fade with the falling leaves. Here are the best occasions to embrace the playful allure of your favorite strawberry perfume:

Spring Awakening

As spring awakens the world, a lighter strawberry scent with hints of citrus or floral notes can add a touch of playful sweetness to your spring wardrobe. Imagine a gentle blend of strawberry and bergamot, echoing the delicate blooms of the season.

Beyond The Beach

While a bold, fruity cocktail of strawberry notes can be perfect for a breezy beach day, explore the versatility of strawberry fragrance paired with other notes for cooler weather. A touch of warm vanilla or woody notes can create a cozy and inviting fragrance that is perfect for fall.

Festive Fun

The holiday season is often associated with rich, spicy scents, but a touch of strawberry can add a playful and unexpected twist. Imagine a unique blend of strawberry perfume with hints of cinnamon and cloves, creating a warm and festive aroma that stands out from the crowd.

Office Chic With A Twist

Contrary to popular belief, strawberry fragrances don’t have to be overly sweet or juvenile. Opt for a more sophisticated interpretation, perhaps with subtle hints of strawberry alongside elegant floral notes like rose or jasmine. This unexpected twist can add a touch of personality to your office attire.

Date Night Delights

Whether it’s a cozy dinner at your favorite restaurant or a night out on the town, a touch of strawberry fragrance can add a touch of playful sweetness and intrigue. Explore fragrances that combine strawberry perfume with subtle hints of musk or amber for a captivating and romantic aroma.

Understanding The Power Of Notes

The key to unlocking the versatility of strawberry perfumes lies in understanding the power of notes. While the core note remains the delicious fragrance of strawberries, the way perfumes blend it with other notes can significantly alter the character of the perfume, making it suitable for various occasions.

Fruity Fusion

Combining strawberry perfume with other fruits like citrus or pear can create a fresh and uplifting scent for warmer months.

Floral Fantasy

Blending strawberry perfume with delicate floral notes like rose or jasmine adds a touch of sophistication and elegance, making it suitable for spring or even office wear.

Warm Embrace

A touch of warm spices like cinnamon or cardamom alongside strawberry can create a cozy and inviting fragrance perfect for fall and winter.

Gourmand Delights

For adventurous souls, exploring gourmands like chocolate or vanilla paired with strawberry can create a playful and unique fragrance experience.

Understand The Context Of Occasion

While personal preference is paramount, the occasion’s context can further enhance your strawberry perfume’s impact. You should keep a couple of considerations in mind:

Daytime vs Evening

Opt for lighter, fresher interpretations of strawberry fragrances during the day. For evening wear, explore richer and more complex blends with notes like amber or musk, adding a touch of sophistication and intrigue.

Weather

Consider the weather when choosing your strawberry scent. While a lighter, citrusy blend can be ideal for humid summer days, a warmer, vanilla-infused strawberry fragrance can be more enjoyable in cooler weather.

Tips For Wearing Strawberry Scents

While exploring the versatility of strawberry perfumes, consider these tips for wearing them with confidence:

Consider The Intensity

Opt for lighter and fresher interpretations for warmer months and daytime wear while exploring richer and more complex blends for cooler weather and evening occasions.

Mindful Applications

Apply your perfume strategically to your pulse points, allowing the scent to unfold naturally. Moreover, avoid over-application, as it can become overwhelming.

Embrace Layering

Experiment with layering your strawberry perfume with other complementary scents. For example, pair it with a floral fragrance for a touch of sweetness or a woody scent for added depth and complexity.

Benefits Beyond Seasons

The versatility of strawberry perfumes extends beyond the typical seasonal categories. There are a few situations where it can add a delightful touch:

Confidence Catalyst

Fragrance plays a role in confidence and self-expression. If your favorite strawberry scent makes you feel confident and empowered, wear it whenever you need an extra dose of self-assurance, regardless of the occasion.

Signature Scent

Every individual has a unique scent profile, and finding a perfume that resonates with your personality can become your signature scent. If your favorite strawberry perfume reflects your personality and makes you feel like the best version of yourself, don’t be afraid to wear it year-round.

Wear Strawberry Perfume With Confidence

The decision of when to wear your favorite strawberry perfume is a personal one. Fragrance is a form of self-expression, and there are no right or wrong answers. So always experiment and learn to unlock new ways to express yourself and discover the unexpected ways a simple scent can enhance your life.

Patrick’s Day Celebration Attracts Over 400 Attendees

MORRIS COUNTY — There’s no debate that the Saint Patrick’s Day parade in Morristown has been a premiere event in Morris County for many years, but immediately after the parade has ended, and the crowds have dispersed, comes another long-standing event that many of us look forward to every year. The “Gannon Family Annual Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration,” still going strong after 58 years. 

Gannon Family Annual Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration

Despite some very gloomy weather throughout the day on March 9th, over 400 people weren’t about to let a little rain and chilly temps dampen their spirits. They came out in droves, to the meeting hall of the SS. Cyril & Methodius Church in Boonton, sporting their finest green attire, to share a relaxing, fun, and spirited afternoon, complete with an Irish American meal of all-you-could-eat corned beef, cabbage, and potatoes. As every year, all courtesy of the Gannon family. Of course, there were also plenty of desserts, Irish soda bread, and some cold brews to wash it all down. 

Irish American meal of all-you-could-eat corned beef, cabbage, and potatoes. As every year, all courtesy of the Gannon family.

Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, brother Kevin, as well as many other family members and friends, began the preparations days in advance (in actuality, this is an ongoing process starting the year before). The amount of food that had to be prepared had to be assembled in numerous large pots in the Sheriff’s daughter’s driveway and then delivered to the meeting hall. An unbelievable 305 pounds of corned beef, 100 pounds of potatoes, and 100 pounds of cabbage, and almost all of it went!  As much hard work as it took to put this amazing annual dinner together, you could hear the excitement and satisfaction in the Sheriff’s voice as he discussed how much he enjoyed and looked forward to carrying on this tradition year after year. A labor of love!

Morris County Commissioners Stephen Shaw, Doug Cabana, and Patrick Minutillo

 Of course, this celebration offers more than a great corned beef and cabbage dinner. The large crowd was also treated with a local group of young step dancers, Morris County Bag Pipers, John Fox Jr. and Dan McConnell, (after all, what would an Irish function be without bagpipers), and the ongoing live music from the McArdle Brothers Band. And it was evident the crowd loved it all, you could feel the energy in the room. Lots of laughter, community spirit, and camaraderie filled the room throughout the event.

Attendees included such dignitaries as Commissioners Doug Cabana, Steve Shaw, Tayfun Selen, Morris County Prosecutor, Robert J. Carroll, and  Morris County CrimeStoppers Chairman John Sette, among many other local business leaders, residents, and other supporters and friends.

As mentioned, this event is about more than just great food, and a fun time for Sheriff Gannon, and his family. The event is a celebration of life. On the walls of the hall are photos of family members, past and present, who this event is in memory of. Specifically, the family patriarch, NYPD Detective Edward F. Gannon, the Sheriff’s father and mentor, their mother, Genevieve, who before passing never missed this event, Judge Edward V. Gannon, as well as many other family members who are no longer with us. It is a joyous event and a fitting way to honor and remember those before us. As one person nicely stated on social media; “Events like these bring people together, create lasting memories, and contribute to the rich cultural fabric of the community.” I could not agree more. Slainte!

Lots of laughter, community spirit, and camaraderie filled the room throughout the event.

Community Hope Announces New Board Members

PARSIPPANY — Community Hope announces three new members to its Board of Directors: Ann Mohamadi, CEO, Sapphire Associates, Brent Ragans, President, Ferring US, and John Stritehoff, a US Navy Veteran and Senior Sales Consultant, JCS Consulting, Sales Director, aia Translations. 

“It is a great honor to add these exceptional individuals to the Board of Directors,” says John Iannetta, Community Hope Board President. Each of these individuals is dedicated to the work of Community Hope and the people we serve daily. It is an honor to have them as part of the leadership of this great organization. In addition, we are proud to announce that the Board has decided to elevate Carmine Deo, MBA, MSW, LCSW, Community Hope Executive Director to the title of Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Deo has demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities as Executive Director since 2018 and we are proud to extend this title to him.” 

The current Board of Directors are: 

John Iannetta, President 
Laurie Becker, Vice President 
Bruce Silver, Secretary 
Nicholas Lorusso, Treasurer 
Karen Campbell, Director 
Paul Cocja, Director 
Lucy C. Del Gaudio, Veteran Advisor 
Ann Mohamadi, Director 
Belinda Perichi, Director 
Brent Ragans, Director 
Todd Smith, Director 
John Stritehoff, USN (Ret.), Director 
Elias Tsepouridis, Director 
David Wissert, Esq., Director 
Jennifer Zimmer, Director 
Carmine V. Deo, MBA, MSW, LCSW – Chief Executive Officer 

Emeritus Board Members 

Eileen Griffith, Director and past President 
Carmela Lunt, Founder and past President 
Eugene C. Holloway, III, Esq., Director 
Jay Yarnis, DDS, Director 

Community Hope, a NJ non-profit organization, provides housing and support services to hundreds of veterans, veteran families, and people living with mental illness each year. Since 1985, our team of over 150 employees has provided clinical case management, housing (emergency, transitional, and affordable), and homeless prevention services enabling thousands to recover from mental illness, homelessness, substance use, and poverty. 

To learn more about Community Hope, visit communityhope-nj.org and follow us on Instagram: CommunityHope_NJ, Twitter @CommunityHopeNJ, and Facebook at facebook.com/CommunityHopeNJ 

Unity and Understanding Emphasized at Local Black History Celebration

PARSIPPANY — During February 2024, volunteers of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA (HSS) engaged with and honored African American community leaders to celebrate Black History Month. HSS chapters in North New Jersey, specifically Parsippany and Morris Plains Township, hosted distinguished African American figures for the event.

Pastor Loretta Hall of Progressive Faith Ministries, Towaco, was the chief guest. She highlighted the African American struggle through different eras, including the Reconstruction era, Civil Rights era, and contemporary times. Pastor Hall also spotlighted the significant contributions and achievements of the African American community to American society, encouraging everyone to draw inspiration from these stories.

The event featured a Q&A session, where HSS members engaged in discussions centered around the importance of understanding one’s history to foster a future marked by love, kindness, empathy, peace, and a sense of belonging for the entire community.

Pastor Loretta Hall thanked the local Hindu community for their warm reception, stressing the universal language of humanity.

About Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS): HSS is a voluntary non-profit cultural organization with over 230 chapters across the United States. It is dedicated to community service and outreach activities that promote discipline, teamwork, and selflessness, thereby building a strong Hindu-American community committed to civic responsibility and proud of its heritage. For more information, visit www.HSSUS.org.

Pastor Loretta Hall holds multiple pastoral roles, including at Progressive Faith Ministries and as the Executive Pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church. Professionally, she serves as the clinical research director at one of the leading medical centers in New Jersey.