Saturday, August 1, 2026
Home Blog Page 275

$12,000 in Scholarship Money Available to Morris County June Graduates

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Retirees Education Association Philanthropic Fund, Inc. (MCREAPF) is offering six scholarships to Morris County residents who are attending and will be graduated from a public high school. This scholarship is for students who plan to pursue a career in education and who will be attending an approved four-year accredited college or university offering a Bachelor’s Degree with an education major.

The scholarships are for $2,000. The recipients will be sent $2,000. after the chairperson receives a copy of the first-semester transcript which indicates enrollment in the field of education and a successful academic record.

The deadline for the receipt of applications is Friday, April 30, 2021. Scholarship applications are available at your high school guidance office or click here.

Morris Habitat for Humanity to Host Virtual Hearts & Hammers Gala

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris Habitat for Humanity announces its first-ever virtual Hearts & Hammers Gala on Thursday, February 25, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., in lieu of an in-person event. The fun-filled evening will raise funds for the organization’s largest project to date — a 25-unit condominium complex planned for Randolph. Registration is free and open to the public.

Tune in to the live-streaming event to learn more about Morris Habitat’s mission to provide affordable housing as well as its impact on local communities. Attendees will hear directly from Habitat homeowner families who will share their stories, as well as honorees, volunteers, and sponsors who have helped make Morris Habitat’s life-changing work possible. The 16th annual celebration, hosted by Toni Yates of WABC-TV, will also feature new construction projects, plans for the future, prize giveaways, and ways people can get involved–even during the pandemic.

“This has been a very challenging year, and the pandemic has put a spotlight on just how important safe, decent and affordable housing really is,” said Morris Habitat for Humanity CEO, Blair Schleicher Wilson. “While we would rather be gathering in person, the virtual gala will allow people to help build homes without ever leaving home.”

Corporate sponsors are stepping up to lend support to Morris Habitat’s vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live.  Major corporate sponsors to date include GAF, Bayer, Valley Bank, Lakeland Bank, and Schindler.

To learn more, register, or sponsor the virtual gala, click here or contact Stephanie Buonarota at (973) 349-7612.

Morris Habitat for Humanity is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization committed to building homes, communities, and hope. Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Morris Habitat builds new homes and provides home repair services to income-eligible families in Morris and Middlesex Counties as well as Fanwood, Plainfield, Scotch Plains, Green Brook, North Plainfield, and Watchung. Since 1985, Morris Habitat has served more than 650 households through homeownership opportunities, home preservation, and international home building programs. Proceeds from the ReStore have helped to fund construction while diverting almost 5,800 tons of useable material from local landfills.  For more information click here or call (973) 891-1934.

Judge Rules Overwhelmingly in Favor of Morris GOP

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Laura Ali

MORRIS COUNTY — Superior Court Judge Berdote Byrne has ruled in favor of the Morris County Republican Committee (MCRC).
In her decision, Judge Berdote Byrne denied the plaintiff’s claims, calling them “recklessly misleading” and “not supported by the factual evidence”. In this admonishment, she also ordered the plaintiffs to reimburse MCRC for all legal costs.

“We are pleased that the Judge affirmed what we already knew and are looking forward to our meeting on Saturday where the County Committee will finally have their voices heard”, said Chairwoman Laura Ali.

On Saturday, February 6, MCRC members will vote on a bylaw modification to adopt a county line in Morris. The proposed adoption will give Morris County Committee members the power to endorse candidates in a primary – a role that nearly every duly elected committee person in the state already holds.

Zagursky’s Bar & Grill: Where Everyone Knows Your Name

By
Patrick Minutillo
-
0
Zagursky’s Bar & Grill is located at43 Mount Pleasant Avenue, Whippany

HANOVER — Looking for a burger that is simply good enough, you will certainly have no problem finding one among the numerous fast-food, chain style, cookie-cutter burger places that dot Parsippany’s highways and byways. Likewise, if your preference leans towards a more creative, gourmet-style burger, Parsippany offers a diverse choice of gastro pubs and fine restaurants that would certainly meet your needs.  For me, I do not think you can do much better than finding that often elusive, tasty, fresh off the grill, crispy, juicy, savory, classic American burger. Not surprisingly, where better to find that classic American favorite than at a true, iconic, neighborhood American dive bar, often just referred to by its regulars as Z’s.

On Mount Pleasant Avenue in Whippany, right off Route 10 and basically a couple of miles from the border of Parsippany, you will find Zagursky’s Bar & Grill.  A simple, non-descript looking white house, family-owned and operated, long time, neighborhood watering hole and sports bar, Zagursky’s is a true throwback type bar and restaurant, with friendly and welcoming service, delicious food, cold beer, and a nice pour.  One of those “where everyone knows your name” places. Originally opened in 1945 by Anna and John Zagursky, and currently run by grandsons, Bobby “Stitch” Yannotta and Kevin “KP” Yannotta, this family tradition continues. The moment you walk in you can feel the high energy of this sports-style bar scene, filled with lots of laughter, good friends, and lively conversation.  After three generations of providing their most loyal and regular customers with great bar food you can be confident, they are doing something special.

I must admit, I have an affection for these no-frills, non-pretentious places that come with a great backstory.  They are getting harder and harder to find so it is a treat to visit them while you still can. Zagursky’s, for me, is reminiscent of a little shot and beer joint I owned in the late 70’s, but Z’s is so much better.  A lot of comforts sometimes, just to take a step back in time and smile; and it was a pleasure to meet and talk with the very personable, cordial, and amusing Yannotta brothers.

Zagursky’s burger with fresh toppings of lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles, all firmly held together with a sesame seed bun

I know I started this review highlighting the Zagursky’s burger since I think that is where Zargusky’s stands out from the pack, and I will get back to that later, but Z’s does have much more to offer than burgers on their menu.  Stitch’s reputation for creating delicious personal-sized bar pies was something we could not resist, so as a starter we decided to kick off this meal-sharing both sausage and a pepperoni-onion pie.  Delicious, crispy, thin-crust, and slightly well done, with a perfect little bit of char on the bottom and edges of the crust. The sauce was tangy and tasty with just the right amount of cheese and toppings.

Mozzarella Sticks

Excellent, properly prepared pies and we were off to a good start. Next, out came the onion rings, mozzarella sticks, and hot and spicy chicken wings.  Ample and satisfying bar food just as you would expect it. The onion rings were perfectly fried, crunchy, and tender, the mozzarella sticks were firm to the touch and filled with the nice chewy cheese, and the 12 wings, ordered hot and spicy, were surprisingly large and meaty, with just the right amount of heat and bite to awaken your taste buds.

Zagursky’s half-pound, bacon, cheeseburger had been rated among the best in New Jersey just a few years back, so I was anxiously looking forward to enjoying this savory treat, and it did not disappoint.

Crispy and crunchy on the outside, moist, and juicy inside, cooked to medium with fresh toppings of lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles, all firmly held together with a sesame seed bun.  While the others were deciding on their orders Stitch happened to mention that he had just made fresh Kielbasa that day, so by special request he came up with his first time ever, creative Kielbasa and sauerkraut slider.  Well, that slider is a keeper, moist, tender, and perfectly seasoned Kielbasa offset with the slightly sour, tangy bite of the sauerkraut.  After all this great food, accompanied by a very cold and fresh tasting tap beer, I could not eat another bite.  We all left with our stomachs full, a smile on our faces, and a promise to return very soon.

Delicious, crispy, thin crust and slightly well done, with a perfect little bit of char on the bottom and edges of the crust

If you have not been to Zagursky’s Bar & Grill I would recommend you give it a shot.  Great food, exceptionally clean, friendly atmosphere, and you are not going to break the bank here as the prices are very reasonable.  If you are looking for a good spot to just relax and catch a game, Zargusky’s has seven large-screen televisions conveniently located around their good-sized wooden bar; and if you are looking for something a little quieter, a family-friendly atmosphere, Zargusky’s does have a separate dining room detached from the bar area which will meet your needs.

And, as always, please come out and support all our small, independent local businesses in any way you can.

Take out, Delivery, Ample Parking

All COVID-19 Health Requirements Strictly Enforced

Zagursky’s Bar & Grill is located at43 Mount Pleasant Avenue, Whippany, N.J. 07981. For more information call (973) 386-1412.

Murphy Signs Legislation to Combat Human Trafficking

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0

MORRIS COUNTY — During National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation (A883) amending the “Human Trafficking Prevention, Protection, and Treatment Act” to direct the Commission on Human Trafficking to broaden its current mission of developing public awareness of human trafficking to also include awareness of victim remedies and services and trafficking prevention, including the creation of a public awareness sign. The Commission would develop and determine the language for the public awareness sign, which must contain the national, 24-hour toll-free hotline telephone service on human trafficking operated pursuant to federal law. 

“It is essential that we shine a light on the devastation of human trafficking and I am proud to enact legislation that will strengthen our mission to raise public awareness surrounding this pervasive issue,” said Governor Murphy. “We must remember that our battle against human trafficking extends far beyond this month as we commit to continuing the fight for fundamental human rights and freedoms.” 

The bill also requires the sign to be posted, to the extent practicable, in places that are clearly conspicuous and visible to employees, as well as members of the public, in such establishments as strip clubs or sexually-oriented businesses; places of business of employers of massage or bodywork therapists; bars, hotels, motels, and similar places of public accommodation; and in airports, rail and bus stations, truck stops, and service and safety rest areas located along interstate highways, as well as on all forms of public transportation, including railroad and passenger cars. A business or establishment that does not comply with the bill’s requirement for posting signs would be liable for a civil penalty of $300 for a first offense and $1000 for each subsequent offense.

Primary sponsors of the bill include Assemblymembers Thomas Giblin, Britnee Timberlake, Annette Quijano, and Senators Tom Kean and Nicholas Scutari. 

“The true prevalence of human trafficking cannot be confirmed by incomplete data,” said Assemblyman Tom Giblin. “As a result, we have to remain vigilant through public policy and committed to raising the level of public awareness.”

“Equipping people with the information to safely connect and refer a potential trafficking victim to the appropriate resources is crucial,” said Assemblywoman Britnee Timberlake. “We also have to do better to ensure there is no room for willful ignorance or complicity.”

“The trafficking hotline is one of the safest and most effective tools for victims to access emergency assistance,” said Assemblywoman Quijano. “Putting signage clearly displaying the hotline number all throughout our public spaces is, therefore, an incredibly important strategy to get those in crisis the help they need.”

“I am proud that this legislation will be enacted today, especially during Human Trafficking Awareness Month,” said Senate Minority Leader Tom Kean. “The more we raise awareness of human trafficking, including what it looks like, where it happens, and how to get help, the harder it will be for traffickers to get away with their despicable crimes.”

“Human trafficking is, unfortunately, more prevalent than people realize,” said Senator Nicholas Scutari. “Raising awareness about human trafficking is imperative and empowering the public to know the signs of someone in this scenario and how to report potential incidents will strengthen our efforts to combat this horrid practice.”

Morris County COVID-19 Vaccination Center and Morris County Testing Center Will Be Closed Tuesday, Feb. 2

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Sagar Kadakia, Emergency Medical Technician with the Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad, receives a vaccination

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Regional COVID-19 Vaccination Center in Rockaway Township and the Morris County COVID-19 Testing Center at the County College of Morris (CCM) will both be closed tomorrow, Tuesday, February 2, due to inclement weather.

All vaccination appointments scheduled for tomorrow, Tuesday, February 2, at the Regional COVID-19 Vaccination Center at the Rockaway Townsquare Mall are rescheduled for Thursday, February 4, and individuals will be able to receive their vaccinations at the same time as their original Tuesday appointment.

All vaccination appointments that were canceled for today, Monday, February 1, have been rescheduled for Wednesday, February 3, at the same time as their original Monday appointment.

Everyone who had an appointment for a COVID-19 test that was canceled today, Monday, and tomorrow, Tuesday, at the testing center at CCM is urged to reschedule an appointment by clicking here.

Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting for February 2

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani, Council President Michael dePierro, Councilwoman Emily Peterson, Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Councilwoman Janice McCarthy

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will conduct its regularly scheduled council meeting Tuesday, February 2 at 7:00 p.m.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the meeting will be held via a web conferencing program named WebEx. This program will allow the public to listen in to the meeting and to participate during the public portion session only. This program uses a “raise hand” button in the software to address those who wish to speak during the public portion.

Please be advised that in order for a member of the public to speak during the public portion, they will need to provide their first name, last name, email address, address and city accurately. Anyone not using their real name and address will not be allowed to speak during the public portion.

For more information, please contact the Township Clerk’s office at (973) 263-4351 or email [email protected].

  • Click here to download R2021-032 Solar Garden Support

Town Hall and Municipal Operation Closures Extended to Tuesday Due to Weather

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Hall is located at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard

PARSIPPANY — Due to the winter weather, and out of an abundance of caution, Town Hall and municipal operations will be suspended Tuesday, February 2, 2021.

*Tomorrow’s Township Council Meeting will continue, as it is a virtual meeting*

Closures include but are not limited to:

  • All Town Hall operations. Zoning and Construction appointments are canceled and will have to be rescheduled. We apologize for this inconvenience.
  • Garbage, Recycling & Sanitation routes. Please take garbage and recycling away from curbs and streets so that crews can plow roadways.
  • Recycling Center.
  • Community Shuttle/Bus.
  • Community Center.
  • Food Pantry.
  • Health Department.
  • COVID-19 Testing Facility.
  • Municipal Court.

Remember parking on the road is not allowed, and will be subject to tickets and/or towing.

Please be safe and keep transportation to a minimum. To report power outages call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877), go to www.firstenergycorp.com and click the “Report Outage” link, or text OUT to 544487.

A letter from Dr. Barbara Sargent, Superintendent of Schools

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Frank A. Calabria Education Center

PARSIPPANY — Dear Parsippany-Troy Hills School Community,

Thanks so much for a very smooth reopening last week. It was great having everyone back and seeing the buildings back to life again. It was evident that everyone was glad to see friends and colleagues, and the many students that bring meaning to our work.

With schools re-opened, we’ve focused again on keeping our students and staff safe. COVID-19 didn’t go away while we were in Fully Remote status and it is an unfortunate reality that positive cases will continue to occur over the next several months.  All of the protocols that were established in our Return to School Plan are still in place and we continually revise procedures as new NJ Department of Health guidelines are released.

With the winter season in full swing, the schools’ HVAC systems continue to play an important part in maintaining fresh air exchange in classrooms.  All schools have adequate ventilation, including operational heating and fresh air exchange.  Filter changes have been increased to quarterly which is more frequent than the manufacturer recommendations.  Temperatures are set to maintain inside air temperatures at 70-72 degrees. Our normal range as specified by State guideline A4097 would be 68-79 degrees for acceptable occupancy temperatures.  We never manually shut off any boilers or heating systems during the winter months. Several of our larger schools have automatic temperature setback capabilities, but this only reduces the indoor temperatures by 3-4 degrees and it would occur after normal building occupancy hours. Many staff members choose to open a window to increase fresh airflow in the classroom and this is certainly acceptable.

For those in our school community interested in health data, I encourage you to follow the data posted on the NJ Department of Health website by clicking here.   This is updated weekly and breaks out data by region.  We will not post a district data table.  With more than 40% of our students attending as Fully Remote and health information for these students inconsistently reported, this puts us in the position of presenting incomplete data right from the start.  We have reported cases of COVID at each impacted school since September and will continue to do so, as required by Governor Murphy’s Executive Order #192.

Here are a few additional informational points:

  • Friday, February 5 will be a ½ Afternoon Inservice Day.  Principals will communicate schedules next week.
  • A Progress Update on the 2020-21 District Goals was presented to the Board of Education last week and is available on the district website by clicking here.
  • An Open Letter to the Community from our Board of Education – “Impact Housing Developments will have on our Schools” – is also posted on the district website and can be viewed here.
  • We’re excited that all of our schools have opened their school libraries for book exchange.  Many schools are also hosting special literacy activities during the winter months to keep our readers connected to terrific stories.

Thank you for your continued patience and flexibility.  We are learning and adapting more and more as the weeks go by.  There are great things happening in our schools.  I am immensely proud of the teaching and learning occurring in this school community each day.

Sincerely,
Barbara Sargent, Ed.D.
​​​​​​​Superintendent of Schools

Local Students Named to New York Tech’s Presidential Honor List

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
New York Institute of Technology is a private, independent, nonprofit, non-sectarian, coeducational research university founded in 1955

PARSIPPANY — New York Institute of Technology congratulates more than 1,300 students who were named to the Fall 2020 Presidential Honor List. To qualify for the Presidential Honor List, a student must achieve a minimum semester GPA of 3.7 and complete at least 12 credit hours without any incomplete grades. Local students named include:

Mira Chothani
Krishnaben Jatinkumar Patel
Lipi Patel
Param Shukla
Jeet Vaishnav

New York Institute of Technology offers 90 undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in more than 50 fields of study, including computer science, data, and cybersecurity; biology and biomedical studies; architecture and design; engineering; health professions and medicine; IT and digital technologies; management; communications and marketing; education and counseling; and energy and sustainability. A nonprofit, independent, private, and nonsectarian institute of higher education, the New York Institute of Technology welcomes more than 9,000 students worldwide. The university has campuses in New York City (Manhattan) and Long Island (Old Westbury), New York; Jonesboro, Arkansas; and Vancouver, British Columbia, as well as programs around the world.

New York Institute of Technology embraces its mission to provide career-oriented professional education, give all qualified students access to opportunity, and support research and scholarship that benefit the larger world. More than 107,000 alumni comprise an engaged network of doers, makers, and innovators prepared to change the world, solve 21st-century challenges, and reinvent the future. For more information click here.

Progressive Insurance Commercial Filmed in Parsippany

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0

PARSIPPANY — Progressive Insurance Commercial Filmed at Tech Toys in Parsippany.

Montclair State University Congratulates Fall 2020 Dean’s List

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Nick Verducci was named to Montclair State University’s Fall Dean’s List. Verducci was among 7,000 named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List. Verducci is a junior studying Justice studies. Nick, a quarterback for Montclair Red Hawk’s, played in five games in 2019...made collegiate debut against Southern Virginia on September 7. Nick is a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School Class of 2018.

MORRIS COUNTY — Montclair State University congratulates Red Hawks named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List. Students residing in our readership area are:

Robert Manlapig of Parsippany

Fred Nagle of Morris Plains

Jewel Rankel of Morris Plains

Caroline Walz of Mount Tabor

Mike Ezpeleta of Lake Hiawatha

Dirgh Patel of Parsippany

Kathrina Ramirez of Parsippany

Gabrielle Barrese of Morris Plains

Bridget Murphy of Florham Park

Donato Casolaro of East Hanover

Natalie Koeber of Mountain Lakes

Brenna Gawley of Boonton

Roqaya Wafa of Parsippany

Jenna Kalynovych of Cedar Knolls

Courtney Calabrese of Parsippany

Alex Angulo of Parsippany

Abigail Fletcher of East Hanover

Kenny Slaman of Lake Hiawatha

Houda Sabeh of East Hanover

Sharanam Shah of Morris Plains

Farah Sheira of Lake Hiawatha

Lucia Lucarella of East Hanover

Disha Patel of Parsippany

Meaghan Debenedette of Parsippany

Jamie Bazaral of Parsippany

Ruby Murad of Madison

Kira Welenc of Morris Plains

Juan Gomez of Parsippany

Marissa Lawler of Parsippany

Gabriella Iacono of East Hanover

Justin Salluce of Parsippany

Remy Frost of Morris Plains

Michael Papaianni of East Hanover

Marcus Wan of Parsippany

Uzma Hasan of Parsippany

Ben Earl of Lake Hiawatha

Jenna Wear of Lake Hiawatha

Gianna Foti of East Hanover

Zinab Yaqoobi of Lake Hiawatha

Destiny Oridge of Parsippany

Phillip Metta of Lake Hiawatha

Neel Patel of Parsippany

Kayla Bush of Morris Plains

Patricia Vanderpool of Parsippany

Matt Chan of Parsippany

Yousof Mamoor of Parsippany

Juliana Barnhill of Morris Plains

Joyce David of Parsippany

Anabelen Delgado of Lake Hiawatha

Razan Akkad of Parsippany

Alex Pirl of Parsippany

Julia Leva of Boonton

Aesha Patel of Parsippany

Sakae Handerson of Boonton Twp

Leah Kashulines of Mountain Lakes

Uzair Ullah of Boonton

Nadya Almganhi of Parsippany

Miriam Aguirre of Parsippany

Gianna Hartigan of East Hanover

Robert Marciano of Mount Tabor

Sherilyn Ostlin of Morris Plains

Valerie Gargiulo of East Hanover

Christina Gillespie of Boonton

Jaydon Lynch of Boonton

Ally D’Addezio of East Hanover

John Lee of Parsippany

Robert Gillo of Morris Plains

Tori Freire of Parsippany

Ava Costa of East Hanover

Christina Proietto of Boonton

Connor Goodwin of Morris Plains

Nicholas Roepke of Parsippany

Kathy Lopez of Lake Hiawatha

Alfonse Napolitano of Morris Plains

Britt Ruggiero of East Hanover

Megan Leitner of Lake Hiawatha

Juan Ayala of Morris Plains

Rachel Klemovitch of Parsippany

Elizabeth Shivietz of Florham Park

Jack Keane of Morris Plains

Cassie Bodendorf of Boonton

Juliana DeAngelis of Morris Plains

Harrison Kraft of Boonton

Jeffrey Wear of Lake Hiawatha

Nicole Synnott of Parsippany

Timothy Rabel of Madison

Hamzah Turan of Parsippany

Lexi Becker of Boonton

Faith Mostillo of Parsippany

Suraj Makadia of Parsippany

Taylor Castelli of Morris Plains

Justin Green of Boonton

Julia Krevis of Boonton

Morgan Schaefer-Jones of Morris Plains

Kevin Cronin of East Hanover

Grace Keane of Morris Plains

Luz Martinez of Madison

Mareldi Denas of Parsippany

Emma Mendoza of Boonton

Nick Verducci of Parsippany

Jenna Corsi of East Hanover

Patrick Ferreira of Florham Park

Ashley Rosato of Florham Park

Michaela Tomanelli of Lake Hiawatha

Colette Murphy of Florham Park

Daniel Rodriguez of Parsippany

Ashley Loprete of East Hanover

Emma Wilcox of Cedar Knolls

Zoe Nolz of Parsippany

Giuliana Martinez of Boonton

David Fleitas-Guillen of Lake Hiawatha

Connor Dubeau of East Hanover

Megan Canzonieri of East Hanover

Andrea Delgado of Lake Hiawatha

Nikki-James Soto of Parsippany

Laila Tlack of Parsippany

Tran Chau of East Hanover

Melinda Cazimoski of Morris Plains

Giovanna Di Lauri of East Hanover

Deirdre Licciardi of Boonton Twp

Kaitlyn Sklow of Parsippany

Lydia Parker of Parsippany

Nami Patel of Parsippany

Gabriella Vazzano of Boonton

Sean DuBeau of East Hanover

Edwin Aguirre-Rosas of Parsippany

Ashley Perri of Boonton

Michael Rigillo of East Hanover

Bobby Ezzi of Boonton

Mariam Wali of Parsippany

Shalin Patel of Lake Hiawatha

Victoria Lupo of East Hanover

Alyssa Feola of Lake Hiawatha

Catalina Castelan of Lake Hiawatha

Nicole Davino of East Hanover

Gina Decroce of East Hanover

Sophia Castaneda of East Hanover

Lance Bancairen of Morris Plains

Michael Primamore of East Hanover

Kelly Coombs of Parsippany

Eric Wong of Parsippany

Bhoomika Vachhani of Parsippany

Jared Bazaral of Parsippany

Savannah Cerrato of Parsippany

Kashvi Rastogi of Morris Plains

John Trevisan of Parsippany

Sunah Choudhry of Boonton

Nabil Mamoor of Parsippany

Sarah Akrami of Parsippany

Amy Albin of Morris Plains

Samuel Pedersen of Parsippany

Manny Gonsalves of East Hanover

Alexis Cajas of Lake Hiawatha

Allison Hofmann of East Hanover

Morgan Villopoto of Parsippany

Larissa Salmeri of East Hanover

Nicholas Ezzi of Boonton

Fiona McCarthy of Morris Plains

Fatima Yaqoobi of Lake Hiawatha

Davin Budich of Parsippany

Ashley Johnson of Morris Plains

Jared Stock of Parsippany

Frankie Caruso of Florham Park

Devyn Reidy of Boonton Twp

Megha Patel of Parsippany

Eka Swamy of Lake Hiawatha

Connor Preston of Lake Hiawatha

Yasmine Ashour of Parsippany

Peter Jones of Parsippany

The Dean’s List, issued after the close of the Fall and Spring semesters by the academic deans, gives recognition to students with a 3.500 or higher semester GPA if a minimum of 12 credits is earned in courses that contribute to the GPA and if there are no IN (incomplete) grades for that semester.

Montclair State University is a research doctoral institution ranked in the top tier of national universities. Building on a distinguished history dating back to 1908, the University today has 11 colleges and schools that serve 21,000 undergraduate and graduate students with more than 300 doctoral, masters and baccalaureate programs. Situated on a beautiful, 252-acre suburban campus just 12 miles from New York City, Montclair State delivers the instructional and research resources of a large public university in a supportive, sophisticated, and diverse academic environment.

Onyx with the Cutest Little Grumpy Face wants a Furever Home

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0

MORRIS COUNTY — Introducing Onyx, a 3.5-year-old Puggle with the cutest little grumpy face!!

Don’t let his face fool you though, Onyx is a happy-go-lucky pup who loves to do just about everything! Time for a walk? Onyx is ready. Time for a snuggle? Onyx is ready. Looking for a hiking buddy? Onyx is ready!

Onyx came to us because his family was moving and did not want to take him. Now, he’s ready to find his forever family! Onyx’s ideal home is one with a fenced-in yard where he can play with an active family who likes to take walks and go out and about. While he does love a good cuddle, he is no couch potato!

Onyx is good with other dogs and children 6+. We are unsure how he’d be with cats. Onyx is potty trained and super friendly.

If you’re looking for a new cutie to brighten up to your life, apply to adopt Onyx!

If you are interested in adopting, please fill out an application by clicking here.

Follow on Instagram: instagram.com/wiseanimalrescue
Like on Facebook: facebook.com/wiseanimalrescue

Morris County Homeless Shelters Received over $2,000,000 in HUD Assistance Programs

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0

MORRIS COUNTY — The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded $2.5 billion to renew support to thousands of local homeless assistance programs across the nation. HUD’s Continuum of Care (CoC) grants will provide critically needed support to 6,597 local programs on the front lines of serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Morris County homeless shelters received over $2,000,000.

In New Jersey, HUD renewed its funding to 218 Continuums of Cares across the state.  Homeless services providers received $52,486,276 to assist homeless individuals and families, and all New Jerseyans at risk of becoming homeless.  COVID-19 presented new challenges to these grantees, and HUD aims to assist them in keeping our communities safe.

Due to the pandemic, the funding announced renews grants for existing programs. This process was dramatically streamlined because communities have been and will continue to be consumed with COVID-19 response and have limited capacity to participate in the traditional CoC competition.

“HUD wants to ensure that thousands of local homeless assistance providers continue to receive federal funds needed to provide stable housing for people experiencing homelessness during these trying times,” said Acting HUD Secretary Matt Ammon. “Renewing these grants not only offers relief to our local partners but it allows Continuums of Care to continue their work to end homelessness and help keep our most vulnerable neighbors off the streets.”

“We are excited about the opportunity to provide funding without diverting the attention of communities from the vital work of preventing, preparing for, and responding to the pandemic,” said James Arthur Jemison, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Community Planning and Development.

“HUD’s grantees that provide homelessness prevention and services are the frontline of day-to-day housing challenges, and HUD is committed to streamlining their funding process during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Justin Scheid, HUD Newark Field Office Director.  “Continuums of Care in the State are invaluable resources for those in need, and they are committed to keeping our communities safe.”

HUD’s Continuum of Care grant funding supports a broad array of interventions designed to assist individuals and families experiencing homelessness, particularly those living in places not meant for habitation, located in sheltering programs, or at imminent risk of experiencing homelessness. Each year, HUD serves more than a million people through emergency shelter, transitional, and permanent housing programs.

The organizations in Morris County receiving from this grant are as follows:

Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris Step Off the Street Outreach $42,633
Homeless Solutions, Inc. Transitional Housing Program $127,390
Jersey Battered Women’s Service, Inc. Transitional Living Program $156,321
NJ DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS 3AK,3AN, & 3AP CoC Renewal 2019 $306,990
Family Promise of Morris County Morris Leasing 2018 Renewal $61,989
New Jersey AIDS Services 2019 renewal PSH-1 $109,322
Family Promise of Morris County Keys to Housing Consolidated Program $347,543
First Call for Help dba NJ 211 Partnership No Wrong Door $51,020
New Jersey AIDS Services 2019 renewal PSH – 2 $97,623
First Call for Help dba NJ 211 Partnership No Wrong Door 2 $59,616
Jersey Battered Women’s Service, Inc. Rapid Re-Housing for Victims of Domestic Violence $176,286
Homeless Solutions, Inc. Permanent Supportive Housing for Safe Haven $217,791
New Jersey AIDS Services 2019 new – Youth Rapid Rehousing $111,488
Homeless Solutions, Inc. Permanent Supportive Housing at Ruth Davis Drive Women’s Campus $171,764
$2,037,776

26 inches and still coming down!

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Photo by Lora Rios McBride

PARSIPPANY — In sections of Parsippany, the snow is measuring at 26 inches and still snowing!  Send us your snow pictures to [email protected].

WINTER STORM WARNING NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 4 PM EST TUESDAY… Heavy snow. Additional snow accumulations of 7 to 10 inches. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph. WHERE…Portions of northern New Jersey and east central and northeast Pennsylvania. WHEN…Until 4 PM EST Tuesday.

IMPACTS…Travel could be very difficult. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS…The heaviest snow will end by late this evening. Periods of light snow accumulating snow will linger through Tuesday.

Fire in Detached Garage on Lake Shore Drive

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
All photos by Fireground Buff Network LLC

PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, January 31, at approximately 6:00 p.m., Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire Department District 5 and Lake Hiawatha Fire Department District 4 were called to a residence at 46 Lake Shore Drive, Lake Hiawatha on reports of heavy smoke coming from a detached garage. Boonton RIC Team was also requested to the scene.

Upon arrival, it was determined a heavy fire in the garage with a possible cause from a propane tank.

Parsippany Rescue and Recovery were requested to fill air tanks.

JCP#L and Parsippany Water Department was dispatched due to a water main break in the area.

Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance (Car 66) was also requested to the scene.

 

All photos by Fireground Buff Network LLC

Letter to the Editor: I Support Judy Hernandez for Township Council

By
Letters to the Editor
-
0

parsippany focusDear Editor:

I have gotten to know Judy Hernandez over the past few years. She is a great friend, amazing mom, and wife. She is highly active in helping the town – she sits on several boards and committees within the town and surrounding area – Planning Board (Board Member), Environmental Advisory Committee (Vice-Chair), Parsippany Child Day Care Center (Board Member), and Civics Committee (Chairwoman).

In her professional career, she is an Environmental Engineer. Much of what she brings to the town stems from her professional experience and passion – ensuring our town and beyond are thinking of smart and sustainable environmental and economic strategies, including addressing climate change. She’s active on the Parsippany Green Team and Sustainable NJ.

With all of these experiences, I know Judy can do a lot of good for the town of Parsippany and ensure a strong economic and environmental future for our town. In all these committees, she’s working with bi-partisan committees to move this town forward.

I fully support Judy Hernandez for Town Council. I encourage everyone to look into what she can bring to our town and make an educated vote for her on November 2, 2021.

Kendra Von Achen
Parsippany Resident

Murphy Declares State of Emergency In Response to Expected Winter Storm

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
File Photo: Snow covered the trees in Lake Parsippany

MORRIS COUNTY – Governor Phil Murphy declared that New Jersey will enter a state of emergency beginning Sunday, January 31, at 7:00 p.m. in response to the expected winter storm.

Snow accumulation for the storm began as of Sunday afternoon, with the heaviest snow expected to fall during the day on Monday, and hazardous conditions may continue through Tuesday morning. Executive Order No. 218 declares a state of emergency across all 21 counties in New Jersey, allowing resources to be deployed throughout the state during the duration of the storm.

State offices will be closed on Monday, February 1. This does not include weather-essential employees. Private companies and businesses should dismiss their employees at their own discretion. All six vaccine mega-sites will be closed on Monday, February 1 due to the storm.

All NJ TRANSIT buses, rail (except Atlantic City Rail Line), light rail, and Access Link service will be temporarily suspended systemwide for the entire service day on Monday, February 1 due to the significant expected impacts of the snowstorm.

“Heavy snow, coastal flooding, and high winds are expected in many parts of the state,” said Governor Murphy.“The safety of residents and workers is our utmost priority. Please follow all weather-related guidance and stay off the roads in order to allow access for emergency personnel.”

“The New Jersey Department of Transportation is coordinating with our regional and local transportation partners and the New Jersey State Police to ensure the most effective response to this storm,” said Department of Transportation Commissioner Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti. “We are grateful for the  public’s assistance by staying at home and allowing transportation agencies to safely and efficiently clear roadways of snow and ice.”

“Our State Emergency Operations Center has been activated to coordinate with our State Emergency Management Partners. Troopers throughout the state are ready to assist residents and drivers both on and off of the highways for the duration of this storm as needed,” said State Director of Emergency Management and Superintendent of the State Police Colonel Patrick Callahan. “However, we cannot do it without the help of our communities. Please use caution if you must travel, prepare emergency kits for use at home and in your vehicle, and check on your neighbors.”

“In anticipation of the snowstorm, the NJBPU has been in communication with the utilities and they are prepared for the weather emergency,” said New Jersey Board of Public Utilities President Joseph L. Fiordaliso. “We expect outages as a result of the storm and advise residents to charge their phones in advance, make necessary preparations and report any outages to their utility. As always, do not touch or go near any downed wires. We know that any outage is an inconvenience and we will be working with the utilities to ensure they restore all outages as safely and as quickly as possible.”

“NJOHSP coordinates with its partners and New Jersey’s critical infrastructure operators to prepare for all hazards such as this winter storm,” said Jared M. Maples, Director of the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness. “As we continue to monitor for other potential threats, we’re working with our partners to reduce the storm’s impact on residents and visitors. We encourage everyone to stay home and to please consider checking in on family and friends via phone, email, or social media.”

Parts of New Jersey are expected to experience heavy snow, coastal flooding, and blizzard-like conditions. To prepare for the winter storm, the New Jersey State Police has activated the State Emergency Operations Center in order to monitor the storm. The New Jersey Department of Transportation, New Jersey Turnpike Authority, and South Jersey Transportation Authority will also deploy over 3,900 plows and spreaders to keep roads and communities safe.

The Governor encourages New Jerseyans to visit ready.nj.gov for important weather updates and safety information. New Jersey residents should also pay attention to local forecasts, warnings, and watches.

For those living in Central and Southern New Jersey, visit the U.S. National Weather Service Philadelphia/Mount Holly click here

For those living in Northern New Jersey and the New York Metro area, visit the U.S. National Weather Service New York, N.Y. click here.

The Bergen, Burlington, and Gloucester County mega-site was pre-scheduled to be closed on Monday, February 1.  Anyone with appointments at the Atlantic, Middlesex, or Morris mega-sites will receive a call from the health care partner at that site and be rescheduled within the week.

  • Atlantic (AtlantiCare) and Middlesex (RWJBarnabas) will be rescheduled to Thursday
  • Morris (Atlantic Health) will be rescheduled to Wednesday
  • Health care partners will begin making calls after 2:00 p.m. today
  • The Vaccination Call Center will remain open through the storm: 855-568-0545

Important Tips to Remember When Preparing for Winter Weather: 

Secure loose items in your yard such as trash cans, children’s toys, and lawn decorations.

  • Build an emergency kit that includes supplies for the whole family, including pets. Due to COVID-19, there are a few updates to preparing for this winter season such as including hand soap, hand sanitizer, disinfectant supplies, and cloth face coverings in your emergency kits/go-bags.
  • Have cash on hand. If the power is out, so are the ATMs and credit card machines.
  • Know how to report a power outage to your utility company.
  • Know where your utility shut off valves (gas, electric, water) are and how to use them.
  • NEVER use a generator inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, sheds, or similar areas, even when using fans or opening doors and windows for ventilation. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide can quickly build up in these areas and can linger for hours, even after the generator has shut off.
  • Be sure to keep an adequate amount of gas in your car.
  • Be sure to check on friends and neighbors who have access or functional needs. Due to COVID-19, in-person visits may not be ideal under certain circumstances. Please adhere to social distancing guidelines and wear a mask. Use other means of communication such as phone, text, or video chat to check on neighbors and help prepare them.
  • Be sure to have extra medications on hand and keep them in a water-resistant container.
  • Get all of your vital records and insurance papers together now. Keep them in a water-resistant container. If you can, scan and email them to yourself so you have a copy of important numbers and policies, etc
  • Charge your cell phones and try not to use them if the power goes out.

 

A copy of Executive Order No. 218 can be found by clicking here.

High School Scholarships Sponsored by the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
File Photo

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany High and Parsippany Hills seniors are encouraged to apply for the $1,000 scholarships open to ALL graduating seniors. Multiple scholarships will be awarded. Apply through the school’s Guidance Department and follow their timeline and procedures.  Scholarships have been awarded to hundreds of students over 65 years thanks to the club’s successful Golf Classic held each July at the Knoll Country Club.

The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of NJSFWC, which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service.

Due to COVID-19, General Meetings are being held via Zoom the fourth Monday of each month September through April at 7:00 p.m.

If you would like to attend our next General Meeting call Marilyn at (973) 539-3703 or e-mail the club at [email protected].  Check us out on the web www.parsippanywomansclub.org .or follow the club on FACEBOOK.

 

North Beverwyck Road TD Bank to Close

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
The former TD Bank on North Beverwyck Road was robbed in 2017. File Photo

PARSIPPANY — TD Bank announced its plans to close 81 branches, including the branch at 430 North Beverwyck Road effective April 23.

In a statement, the Canadian-based bank with U.S. headquarters in Cherry Hill said plans to close 81 branches, including 13 locations in New Jersey.

TD Bank cited lower numbers of customers and transaction volumes, as well as proximity to other TD Bank branches in determining which location to close, according to the statement.

“We have already begun notifying impacted customers,” a spokeswoman said on behalf of TD Bank. “Our goal is to make this transition as smooth as possible for them.”

TD Bank branches closing in New Jersey include:

  • 430 North Beverwyck Road, Parsippany
  • 601 College Drive, Blackwood
  • 1506 Berlin Road, Cherry Hill
  • 351 Midland Avenue, Garfield
  • 1636 Route 38, Lumberton
  • 571 New York Avenue, Lyndhurst
  • 688 Paramus Road, Paramus
  • 5 State Highway 31, Pennington
  • 536 North Maple Avenue, Ridgewood
  • 129 South Black Horse Pike, Runnemede
  • 10 Mule Road, Toms River
  • 361 Union Boulevard, Totowa
  • 560 North Avenue East, Westfield

TD Bank, N.A., is an American national bank and subsidiary of the Canadian multinational Toronto-Dominion Bank. It operates primarily across the East Coast, in fifteen U.S. states and Washington, D.C. TD Bank is the seventh-largest U.S. bank by deposits and the 8th largest bank in the United States by total assets, resulting from many mergers and acquisitions.

The bank was sued in 2016 for allegations that their coin counting machines, “Penny Arcades,” were inaccurately counting coins. The lawsuit estimates that 26 cents out of every $100 were not counted, totaling $9 million.

The bank took its current name, TD Bank, N.A. on May 31, 2008, through the acquisition and renaming of Commerce Bank and its subsequent merger with TD Banknorth.

The North Beverwyck Road branch first opened as a Commerce Bank. Commerce Bancorp was a Cherry Hill, New Jersey-based bank created in 1973.

Commerce Bank was founded by fast-food restaurant franchise owner Vernon Hill, a graduate of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Hill sought to bring fast food convenience to banking and expanded Commerce from one location to over 435 in thirty-three years.

The federal Office of the Comptroller of Currency and the Federal Reserve’s investigation of insider dealing at Commerce (unrelated to the Philadelphia case) led to a settlement with the bank (no charges were filed) that included restrictions on the bank’s expansion. Hill then retired as chairman, president, and chief executive officer. Hill sued Commerce in 2008, saying he was fired without cause and was owed more than $57 million in severance and damages. In 2013, a federal court ruled that Commerce could not legally pay Hill because the bank had refused to “to certify it had no reason to believe Hill had committed fraud, breached his fiduciary duty or abused his insider privileges.”

Commerce Bank was called Mc-Bank because Vernon Hill used his knowledge of the fast-food chains he owned and applied it to the banking industry.

Commerce’s philosophy was that they were retailers, not bankers, and went so far as to call their various locations stores, not branches.

Features that Commerce offered its customers included:

  • “America’s most convenient bank”
  • Seven-day lobby or drive-thru hours, even in Center City Philadelphia and Manhattan, with the exception of branches in Paramus, (Bergen County law requires most businesses to be closed on Sunday)
  • Instant creation of ATM cards on the spot at the time of account opening
  • No overdraft fees on debit card usage
  • Free “penny arcade” coin counting machines for both customers and non-customers
  • No-fee Visa gift cards for customers
  • Lollipops and dog biscuits in the lobby and drive-thru
  • Foreign ATM fee reimbursement (if you maintain a daily balance of $2,500 through the statement cycle)
    “No Stupid Fees, No Stupid Hours”
1...274275276...707Page 275 of 707

EDITOR PICKS

POLICE AND FIRE

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

Parsippany Focus is a digital news organization that provides news coverage of Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey. The organization was founded in 1989 by Frank Cahill, who currently owns and operates the organization. Parsippany Focus covers local news, events, and community issues, and their content is primarily distributed through their website and social media channels. The organization has been serving as a trusted source of news and information for the Parsippany-Troy Hills community for over 37 years.

Submit Letters or Press Releases use drop down menu at top. We do not accept material by emails.

FOLLOW US

© 2025 Zoomus Marketing, LLC.

Translate »