Joining owners Saad Choudhry and Humzah Saleem for the celebration were Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Township Council Vice President Frank Neglia, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill.
PARSIPPANY — Zalim Hot Chicken & Burgers, located at 229 Littleton Road, hosted a Back to School Backpack Giveaway on Saturday, August 30, ensuring local children were prepared for the start of the school year.
Joining owners Saad Choudhry and Humzah Saleem for the celebration were Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Township Council Vice President Frank Neglia, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill. Dozens of children lined up with their families, receiving new backpacks just in time for the first day of school.
Zalim Hot Chicken & Burgers has quickly made its mark in Parsippany with its bold menu featuring smash burgers, crispy Nashville-style hot chicken, loaded fries, indulgent shakes, and vegan options — all made with halal-certified ingredients and fresh, daily preparation.
The Parsippany restaurant joins Zalim’s growing family of locations, including:
Englewood, NJ – 3 East Palisade Avenue
Brooklyn, NY – 7021 3rd Avenue
Parsippany, NJ – 229 Littleton Road
Co-owner Humzah Saleem shared, “At Zalim, we believe in giving back to the communities that support us. This backpack drive is our way of showing that we care about our neighbors, and we want local students to begin the school year with confidence.”
Council Vice President Frank Neglia praised the effort, saying, “This initiative is a perfect example of business and government working together — putting families and students first. I commend Zalim for stepping forward and supporting our community.”
Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill added, “When local businesses like Zalim invest in our children, it strengthens the entire community. Today’s event reflects the best of Parsippany’s spirit — neighbors helping neighbors.”
The event highlighted not only Zalim’s signature flavor and hospitality but also their commitment to becoming an active partner in the Parsippany community.
Dozens of children lined up with their families, receiving new backpacks filled with supplies just in time for the first day of school.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Hills High School Marching Band and Color Guard will be holding a Car Wash Fundraiser on Saturday, September 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Parsippany Elks Club, located at 230 Parsippany Road.
For just $5.00 per vehicle, community members can have their cars cleaned while supporting a great cause. All proceeds from the event will benefit the PHHS Marching Band and Color Guard, helping fund uniforms, equipment, and program expenses that keep the award-winning group performing at the highest level.
Organizers encourage residents to stop by, get their cars washed, and show their support for local students who dedicate countless hours to rehearsals, halftime shows, and community performances.
This family-friendly event offers an easy way for Parsippany residents to contribute while driving away with a sparkling clean car.
Mayor James Barberio, Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Chamber President Robert Peluso, and Board Members Ildiko Peluso and Nicolas Limanov joined owner Gopal Patel, along with family, friends, and customers, to celebrate the ribbon cutting of Comprehensive Orthopedic Physical Therapy, 745 Route 46, Parsippany.
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills celebrated the grand opening of Comprehensive Orthopedic Physical Therapy, located at 745 Route 46, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local leaders, family, customers, and friends.
Owners Gopal Patel and Poonam Patel was joined in the celebration by Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, and Chamber Board Members Ildiko Peluso and Nicolas Limanov. The event highlighted not only the opening of a new business but also the commitment to building a healthier, stronger community.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill presents a welcoming plaque to Comprehensive Orthopedic Physical Therapy owners Gopal Patel and Poonam Patel during the grand opening celebration at 745 Route 46, Parsippany, stating, “Together, we look forward to building a healthier community through care, strength, and healing.”
Chairman Cahill presented to the owners, Gopal Patel and Poonam Patel with a welcoming plaque, remarking, “Parsippany celebrates the arrival of Comprehensive Orthopedic Physical Therapy, offering modern rehabilitation and wellness programs. Together, we look forward to building a healthier community through care, strength, and healing.”
Comprehensive Services for the Community
Comprehensive Orthopedic Physical Therapy offers an extensive range of services designed to treat pain, restore mobility, and improve overall wellness. Conditions addressed include:
Back, neck, shoulder, hip, knee, foot, and ankle pain
Sciatica, arthritis, chronic pain, and TMJ dysfunction
Post-surgical and pre-surgical rehabilitation
Neurological conditions, stroke recovery, and balance disorders
Sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents, and work-related injuries
The clinic employs advanced treatment techniques such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, acupuncture, cupping, Kinesio Taping, and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (GRASTON-IASTM). Specialized programs include vestibular therapy for dizziness and vertigo, return-to-sports assessments, and sports performance optimization.
In addition, the facility features state-of-the-art tools like Alter-G, Game Ready, and Normatec systems to accelerate recovery. Patients benefit from personalized treatment plans, thorough evaluations, and ongoing education, empowering them to actively participate in their rehabilitation.
Accessible and Patient-Centered Care
The Parsippany location offers Direct Access, allowing patients to begin physical therapy without a physician referral, ensuring faster care. The clinic also provides flexible private-pay options for uninsured patients, accepts a wide range of insurance plans, and welcomes Medicare beneficiaries.
With a mission rooted in care, strength, and healing, Comprehensive Orthopedic Physical Therapy is positioned to make a lasting impact on the Parsippany community, helping residents live pain-free, active, and healthier lives.
Parsippany takes another step toward a greener future with the installation of new EV charging stations, giving residents and visitors more convenient options for sustainable travel.
PARSIPPANY – Encore Energy Group, a leading provider of turnkey energy infrastructure solutions, today announced the completion of six new public-access EV charging stations at 35 Waterview Boulevard. The chargers are publicly accessible and located just off I-287 at the prominent office complex adjacent to the new Waterview Marketplace shopping center on Route 46, providing a convenient charging option for area commuters, tenants and visitors. The project was funded through a combination of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) grants and JCP&L utility rebates, covering over 60 percent of the total project cost.
“This project is a strong example of how Encore navigates every available incentive to deliver solutions at an affordable cost,” said Bill Dato, CEO, Encore Energy Group. “Our team managed every step in-house, from design to installation to incentive filings, and ultimately capturing maximum savings with minimal effort for the customer. It’s that hands-on approach that unlocks the value of the incentives for building modernization.”
Through the NJDEP’s “It Pay$ to Plug In” program, the project qualified for a grant of up to $24,000 ($4,000 per plug). Additional make-ready rebates from JCP&L added approximately $6,700 per port, further reducing infrastructure costs. This approach is core to Encore’s model: identifying and stacking available funding streams, managing the paperwork and delivering compliant installations that maximize incentive eligibility. By doing so, Encore empowers more property owners to offer EV charging with minimal capital outlay.
“Encore made this project incredibly easy for us,” said Michael Basic, President, YMP Real Estate Management. “They handled everything, from design and permitting to managing the grant and rebate paperwork. Compared to dealing with multiple vendors, Encore’s full-service approach saved us time, avoided headaches and delivered real savings.”
The project site at 35 Waterview is less than 10 minutes from Encore’s Pine Brook headquarters, showcasing the company’s commitment to expanding sustainable infrastructure in its home region. The project demonstrates Encore’s expertise in delivering affordable, EV charging solutions through strategic incentive management, an increasingly vital service as demand for public-facing EV infrastructure grows.
About Encore Energy Group Encore Energy Group is the tri-state area’s leading full-service provider of turnkey EV charging and LED lighting solutions, including electrical contracting and construction management. Encore simplifies energy upgrades by managing every step from engineering and grant/rebate filings to installation and maintenance, ensuring ROI-first results and seamless execution for commercial, industrial and municipal clients.
Players are encouraged to sign up now for Parsippany's Fall Men’s Softball League, running September 2 through October 30, with games held Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Recreation is inviting local athletes to step up to the plate and join the Men’s Softball Free Agent Team for the upcoming fall season.
The season begins on Tuesday, September 2, and runs through Thursday, October 30, with all games scheduled at Smith Field E – Turf. This opportunity is open to players who are not currently affiliated with a team but still want to take part in the league.
“This is a great way for residents to stay active, meet new people, and enjoy the fun of competitive softball in our community,” said Justin Stanton of Parsippany Recreation.
Those interested can contact Justin directly at (973) 944-8336, call the Recreation Department at (973) 263-7257, or email [email protected]. Registration is also available online by clicking here.
Littleton Elementary School staff, students, parents, and community members gather in front of the school bus during the ‘Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive’ at Applebee’s
PARSIPPANY — The Littleton Elementary School community came together on Saturday, August 23rd for a pancake breakfast at Applebee’s in support of a “Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive.” Sponsored and hosted by Applebee’s, the event invited families, neighbors, and supporters to donate school supplies while enjoying a delicious breakfast.
Principal Brian Staples, Applebee’s General Manager Barbara Thompson, school staff, parents, and students greeted attendees with smiles as bags of notebooks, pencils, markers, backpacks, and other essentials filled collection bins. The event not only raised much-needed supplies for the upcoming school year but also fostered a strong sense of community spirit.
The school bus inside Applebee’s was filled to the brim with donated supplies during the Littleton Elementary ‘Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive.’
The “Stuff the Bus” initiative serves as an important reminder of the value of collaboration between schools, local businesses, and residents. By combining efforts, families ensured that students in need would begin the school year prepared and confident. Applebee’s, a long-standing gathering place for Parsippany residents, once again demonstrated its commitment to giving back by hosting an event that blended community service with family fun.
With the new school year right around the corner, the drive was marked by excitement, generosity, and the shared belief that every child deserves the tools they need to succeed.
Kids at the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA dive into fall with energy, creativity, and fun during youth programs open to both members and non-members.
MORRIS COUNTY — Fall is around the corner, and the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is ready to kick off a season full of energy, creativity, and community with the launch of Fall Registration for youth programs. Whether your child is eager to move, build, create, or explore, the Y has something for every age and interest—and best of all, programs are open to both members and non-members!
Here’s a sample of what is happening this fall:
Dance Academy: From beginner ballet to acro dance, we offer a complete range of dance classes for all skill levels. Whether your child is twirling for the first time or ready to take the stage, we’ve got the perfect class!
Dodgeball, Jr. & Sr. Parkour, and Homeschool Gym: Keep kids active and engaged with high-energy favorites designed to build physical strength, teamwork, and fun.
Science & Arts Lab: Dive into tech and creativity with classes like Scratch Coding, Tinkercad, App Creation, and Design Workshops. Whether your child is a budding engineer or artist, this is the place to spark new passions.
Pokémon Card Program: Got a Pokémon fan at home? This new offering gives kids a space to trade, play, and learn strategy in a welcoming environment.
Swim, Gym & Fun: For toddlers and preschoolers, our beloved prep-for-preschool program builds skills through active play and social interaction. Choose from 1- or 2-day options.
Kids Night Out: Parents, we’ve got you covered! Enjoy an evening to yourself while your kids have a blast in a safe, supervised setting at the Y.
Birthday Parties: Now Better Than Ever! We’ve revamped our birthday party packages to make celebrating easier than ever. With exciting themes and convenient add-ons like pizza and cake, the Y is your one-stop party place!
From sports and STEM to social clubs and skill-building, there’s something for everyone this season. Don’t wait—spots fill quickly!
About Lakeland Hills Family YMCA Rooted in community, the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA offers inclusive programs that support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our doors are open to all, and we work to ensure every child and family has the opportunity to thrive—regardless of membership status.
Morris County holds its sixth annual Overdose Awareness Day ceremony on August 28, at One Medical Drive, Parsippany. Families who lost loved ones to substance use or fentanyl poisoning were recognized.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County officials, families of overdose victims and service providers recognized the 24th International Overdose Awareness Day by gathering today on the lawn of the Morris County Central Avenue Complex, where they remembered lost lives and raised awareness of the worldwide opioid crisis.
The event, organized by the county Division of Community & Behavioral Health Services, marked the sixth consecutive year Morris County has observed Overdose Awareness Day, which is recognized annually on August 31. The ceremony also recognized Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Day, observed every July 14, and featured personal reflections from family members who have lost loved ones to overdose as well as individuals who shared their journeys of sobriety and recovery.
“Morris County has seen a steady decline in overdose tragedies since 2017, but it is important to stay vigilant, because behind every statistic is a son, a daughter, a friend or a loved one — and the fight to protect people from this crisis is never over,” said Commissioner Christine Myers. “The county has invested $820,000 in opioid settlement funds over the past two years to support prevention, Narcan training and recovery services. These efforts are saving lives.”
State Sen. Anthony Bucco, who sponsored legislation designating August 31 as Overdose Awareness Day in New Jersey in 2020, delivered opening remarks.
“Addiction does not have to end in tragedy. Help and hope are always possible,” said Sen. Bucco. “Morris County immediately jumped in after the legislation was passed, starting programs and bringing us back year after year to remember — and to work for a day when substance abuse is a thing of the past.”
Nationally, overdose deaths have declined in recent years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2024, 80,391 lives were lost to overdose, down 27 percent from 110,037 in 2023.
“Morris County has made progress, but human lives are precious and all are worth rescuing. Our work here is a life-saving mission, and we must continue to see a reduction in these tremendous losses,” said Sheriff James Gannon. “I am so proud of all our efforts, from Hope One to our many partnerships, but today I especially want to recognize Cpl. Erica Valvano, the ‘Mother of Hope One.’ Erica has saved many of the lives included in that progress. This is timely and coincidental today, as Erica works her last day here in Morris County — I want to thank her for the direct and incredible impact she has made!”
Carol Egan, Morris County Human Services Director, Kasey Errico, Commissioner, Christine Myers, and Sen. Anthony Bucco.
Morris County Chief Sheriff’s Officer Aaron Tomasini also spoke at the event, highlighting law enforcement’s ongoing efforts to address the opioid crisis. The county’s response is supported by partnerships among county departments, law enforcement agencies and more than 75 service providers. Key initiatives include the Sheriff’s Office Re-Entry Program, Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative (PAARI), Community Connections, the Hope One mobile unit, Hope Hub, Navigating Hope (a mobile outreach program run by the Morris County Department of Human Services and Family Promise of Morris County), the Mental Health Association of Morris County and the county’s Overdose Fatality Review Team.
Narcan, an over-the-counter drug that reverses opioid overdoses, has also played a critical role in saving lives. Since 2017, the Hope One team has distributed nearly 12,000 Narcan kits, with 185 reported uses to save or attempt to save lives. The program has made more than 1,800 referrals to recovery and support services, and its model has been replicated in ten other counties.
Law enforcement officials continue to face challenges from synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and xylazine. Fentanyl, which is increasingly mixed with xylazine — an animal tranquilizer resistant to Narcan — has become dominant in the illicit drug market.
“In New jersey, the crisis keeps evolving. Pills became heroin, heroin became fentanyl, and now we see fentanyl mixed with other poisons,” said Brad Seabury, Morris County Chief Assistant Prosecutor. “Just recently, about three-quarters of opioids seized here in Morris County contained xylazine.”
Seabury noted that Narcan has played a critical role in saving lives. Law enforcement officers reversed 162 overdoses in 2022, 144 in 2023, 96 in 2024 and 39 so far this year.
“The trend is encouraging,” he said. “It means lives are being saved, and fewer emergency calls are ending in tragedy.”
The ceremony concluded with a remembrance led by Carol Egan, founder of the Global Recovery Movement, who has been a leader in prevention efforts for more than three decades. An opening prayer was offered by Pastor Chuck Corradino of Butler Church of the Nazarene, and Rabbi Moshe Rudin of Adath Shalom in Parsippany closed the ceremony.
The annual ceremony serves as a solemn reminder of the ongoing struggle against addiction and the need for continued compassion, action and community support.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, in collaboration with Juventus Academy New Jersey, invites local families to take part in Juventus Open Days—a series of exciting, soccer-themed community events for children ages 3–10.
These free, public events offer families a great way to get active, make new connections, and experience the joy of soccer—regardless of skill level.
Each Juventus Open Day features:
Interactive soccer games and skill challenges
Meet-and-greets with Juventus Academy coaches and staff
YMCA giveaways
Insights into youth development and community wellness
Event Schedule
Montville / Pine Brook 📅 Saturday, September 20 🕘 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. 📍 Woodmont Elementary School, 39 Woodmont Road, Pine Brook, NJ 07058 ☔ Rain Date: Saturday, September 27
Parsippany-Troy Hills 📅 Sunday, November 2 🕙 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 📍 Central Park of Morris County – Field #1, 1 Governor Chris Christie Drive, Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ 07950 ☔ Rain or Shine
Bring your friends and join us for a fun-filled day of play, teamwork, and youth empowerment. Whether your child is new to soccer or already loves the game, there’s something for everyone.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President-Elect Bonnie Sturm, Key Club Lieutenant Governor of Division 17 Aashka Katapally, UNICEF Champion Anisha Mulinti, and New Jersey District of Kiwanis International Governor-Elect Frank Cahill.
PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany recently welcomed two inspiring student leaders whose passion for service and leadership resonated deeply with members. Aashka Katapally, Key Club Lieutenant Governor of Division 17, and Anisha Mulinti, a dedicated UNICEF Champion, visited the club to speak about their roles and how student leadership is shaping a brighter future locally and globally.
Aashka, who represents Division 17, serves as Lieutenant Governor for Boonton High School, Parsippany High School, Parsippany Hills High School, Mountain Lakes High School, Morristown High School, Montville Township High School, and the Academy of Saint Elizabeth. She spoke about her leadership responsibilities, which include mentoring student officers, organizing divisional service events, and serving as the liaison between Key Club International and local chapters.
“Leadership through service has changed my life,” Aashka shared. “And the support we receive from Kiwanis makes everything we do possible.”
Anisha Mulinti, known for her strong advocacy and public speaking, shared her journey as a UNICEF Champion—a role in which she raises awareness and leads action on issues such as child survival, education, clean water, and emergency relief. She emphasized the powerful partnership between Key Club and UNICEF and how students are empowered to create real impact.
“Being a UNICEF Champion has shown me that youth voices can be powerful tools for change,” Anisha said. “Every fundraiser and awareness campaign we run in our schools has global reach.”
Members of the Kiwanis Club were deeply impressed with the poise, dedication, and maturity of both student leaders. Bonnie Sturm, President-Elect of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, praised the young women, calling them “exceptional role models who exemplify the future of service leadership.”
Also in attendance was Frank Cahill, Governor-Elect of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International, who expressed his appreciation: “Aashka and Anisha are exactly the kind of leaders our world needs. They’re thoughtful, passionate, and already making a real difference.”
The visit was a powerful reminder of the strong and lasting bond between Kiwanis and Key Club, and of the transformative impact of service-driven youth leadership throughout the Parsippany area.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, September 2025. Click here to read the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — Among the more than 3,500 graduates celebrated at the University of Rhode Island’s 2025 Commencement was Parsippany’s own Jack Summa, who earned his Doctor of Pharmacy degree Summa Cum Laude, marking the highest level of academic distinction.
The ceremonies took place from Friday, May 16 through Sunday, May 18, on the university’s Kingston, Rhode Island campus. Nearly 3,600 undergraduate degrees and 600 graduate degrees were awarded, with Summa standing out for his academic excellence in the university’s highly regarded pharmacy program.
Graduating Summa Cum Laude requires a cumulative grade point average of 3.7 or higher, a mark of both academic rigor and consistent achievement. Summa’s success reflects his dedication to both scholarship and service—values that echo throughout the Parsippany-Troy Hills community.
A proud graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, Jack Summa’s accomplishments add to the town’s tradition of producing top-tier students who go on to make a difference in their fields.
To view highlights from the 2025 URI Commencement, please click here.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, September 2025. Click here to view the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — Post 249 American Legion will host its annual Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, September 28, from 8:00 a.m. to Noon at the Legion Hall, located at 91 N. Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha. The community is invited to enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring pancakes, bacon, sausage, fruit salad, coffee, tea, fruit juices, chocolate milk, and regular milk. Tickets are $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children ages 6 to 12, while children under 5 eat free.
In addition to the hearty breakfast, there will be games for children to play, making it a fun family outing.
Proceeds from the event will benefit local Legion projects, including Operation ChillOut, an all-volunteer mobile outreach program dedicated to serving homeless veterans.
Tickets can be reserved by calling (973) 335-9266 or by visiting the Legion Hall between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday (back bar entrance).
PARSIPPANY — The Lake Hiawatha Seniors are inviting the community to join them for a fun-filled bus trip to Wind Creek Casino on Monday, September 15, 2025.
The cost of the trip is $35 per person, which includes $25 back in casino slot money. The bus will depart from the Knoll Park parking lot, opposite the golf course, at 9:15 a.m. and return at approximately 5:00 p.m. Reservations must be paid by September 3. Checks should be made payable to the Lake Hiawatha Seniors.
This fundraiser supports the club’s mission of keeping local seniors active, engaged, and informed on current issues throughout the year. Anyone 18 or older is welcome to attend the trip.
The Lake Hiawatha Seniors meet on the first and third Wednesday of every month at noon, and membership is open to those 55 and older. The club provides opportunities for fellowship, social activities, and educational programs that enrich the lives of area seniors.
“Events like this not only bring people together for an enjoyable day, but they also help us continue offering programs and resources for our senior community,” said Vicki Rice, who is coordinating the trip.
For more information or to reserve your seat, contact Vicki Rice at (973) 402-6823
Falafel, a gentle 9-year-old Havanese, is hoping to find her forever home. This sweet and sensitive small pup is ready to share her love with a caring family
PARSIPPANY — Falafel, a quiet and gentle Havanese, is hoping to find her forever home after being rescued from a life of neglect in a commercial puppy mill. Born on October 15, 2016, Falafel spent her early years as a breeding dog, never knowing the warmth of a loving home or the joy of being part of a family.
When her breeders decided she was no longer useful, they planned to discard her. Thankfully, WISE Animal Rescue stepped in, giving Falafel the chance to start a new chapter. Since coming into their care, she has been learning what it feels like to be safe, cared for, and loved.
Falafel is described as a sweet, sensitive soul who thrives in calm, quiet environments. She loves curling up in a soft bed, cozying in quiet corners, and being near her humans. While still a little nervous when picked up, once in your arms she relaxes and enjoys affection. A patient adopter willing to go at her pace will be the perfect match.
She does best with mellow dogs who give her space and would be most comfortable in a home with children ages 10 and older. Though her past was difficult, Falafel is a quick learner. She is doing well with potty training, has begun learning stairs, and continues to build confidence each day.
“Falafel is the perfect companion for someone looking for a quiet, low-energy, and deeply loving dog,” said representatives from WISE Animal Rescue. “With patience and love, she will continue to flourish and become the loyal companion she was always meant to be.”
Families interested in adopting Falafel can apply through WiseAnimalRescue.org
. WISE adopts to families in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Maine, Vermont, Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, Washington D.C., Rhode Island, and New Hampshire.
For those unable to adopt, donations in support of Falafel and other rescue dogs may also be made through the WISE website. WISE is entirely volunteer-run, and every dollar donated goes directly back to the animals in their care. By partnering with veterinary practices that support their mission, WISE is able to save animals’ lives and restore them to health. While some animals need only routine care, many others require extensive medical treatment or behavioral support to heal from years of neglect.
Adopting from WISE is not only about finding the right companion but also about sustaining a program that rescues dogs like Falafel from tragic situations. Regardless of which dog an applicant is interested in, WISE asks adopters to support their program with a minimum donation of $850. This contribution may not be applied solely to the dog being adopted but instead supports the rescue’s work for all animals. These donations ensure that WISE can continue its mission of rehabilitation and rescue, offering every animal in their care a second chance at life.
WISE representatives remind potential adopters to keep this commitment in mind before applying. “Every adoption helps fund our mission, and every donation directly impacts the lives of the animals we rescue,” the group noted. “It is through this partnership with adopters, donors, and our community that we can continue to save dogs like Falafel.”
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, September 2025. Click here to view the magazine.
Parsippany High School Redhawks Field Hockey team is serving up wings for a cause! 🏑🍗 Pre-order by August 31 to support athlete scholarships, then swing by 200 Mazdabrook Road on Wednesday, September 4, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. to pick up your wings. Sponsored by CareOne at Parsippany.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany High School Redhawks Field Hockey team is turning up the heat this fall—not just on the field, but in the kitchen. The team has launched a community-wide Chicken Wing Fundraiser, sponsored by CareOne at Parsippany, to help raise money for athletic scholarships.
Supporters can pre-order delicious wings—available both bone-in or boneless—in a variety of flavors including Buffalo, Mango Habanero, Memphis Dry Rub, BBQ, and Plain. Each dozen costs only $15.00, with all proceeds going directly to support Redhawks athletes and help fund scholarships for graduating seniors.
“This is a great way for the community to show support and enjoy a tasty treat at the same time,” said a team parent organizer. “Every order helps our student-athletes on and off the field.”
How to Order:
You’ll need to place orders in advance by clicking here. The deadline for all orders is Saturday, August 31, 2025.
Pick-Up Details:
Date: Wednesday, September 4.
Time: 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: 200 Mazdabrook Road, Parsippany (enter the building on the left)
The fundraiser is part of a growing tradition of community engagement by the Redhawks Field Hockey team, known for their competitive spirit and close-knit team culture.
For those looking to spice up their Wednesday afternoon and support local student-athletes, this fundraiser is a win-win.
Tutor Rohan Mruthik works one-on-one with campers during the Parsippany Cube Club Summer Camp, as students practice solving the 3×3 and other twisty puzzles in a collaborative, hands-on setting.
PARSIPPANY — In a spirited collaboration between Parsippany Focus and the Parsippany Cube Club, local students spent the week of August 18 through August 23 immersed in a fun, hands-on learning experience during the club’s Summer Camp, held at 90 East Halsey Road.
Each day from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., young cubers filled the room with excitement as they tackled the Ivy Cube, Pyraminx, and classic 3×3. Whether brand-new to cubing or seasoned with fast fingers, students were guided through every step of the journey with personalized instruction, team challenges, and plenty of encouragement.
Under the leadership of Parsippany Cube Club founder Anikait Sota, the camp emphasized more than just solving puzzles—it built confidence, focus, and friendships.
A standout among the instructors was tutor Rohan Mruthik, whose patience and teaching style earned praise from campers and parents alike. “It was amazing to see how engaged everyone was,” said Rohan. “They weren’t just learning algorithms—they were learning how to think critically, stay calm under pressure, and push themselves to improve.”
To cap off the week, the Cube Club hosted a celebratory pizza party where campers showed off their newly acquired skills and shared laughs with friends and instructors. come in just five days.
The Parsippany Cube Club continues to inspire curiosity and excellence among local youth, proving that with the right environment, learning can be both challenging and joyful.
For more information on future camps and workshops visit parsippanycubeclub.org follow Parsippany Focus for updates.
Lori LoManto, CEO of Global Motivational Counseling Center, joined by employees, Mayor James Barberio, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilman Justin Musella, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Raviram Medapati, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, and Board Member Nicolas Limanov, cut the ribbon to celebrate the center’s success and commitment to mental health services in Parsippany.
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee and the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Saturday, August 23, to celebrate the success and community impact of Global Motivational Counseling Center, located on Route 10 West in Parsippany.
Founded by Lori LoManto, CEO and licensed professional counselor with more than 25 years of experience, the center has been providing comprehensive mental and behavioral health services to Parsippany residents and surrounding communities.
Lori LoManto, CEO of Global Motivational Counseling Center, proudly celebrates the ribbon-cutting ceremony by holding the welcome plaque and ribbon-cutting scissors, marking a milestone moment for her team and the Parsippany community.
“It is truly an honor and a dream come true to open the doors of Global Motivational Counseling Center in the community I’ve proudly called home for over 25 years,” said LoManto. “Our mission is to provide compassionate, professional mental health services and to serve as a source of encouragement and support for individuals and families here in Parsippany. Today’s ribbon cutting is more than just a celebration of a new business—it’s a recognition of the importance of mental health and the strength we can all find when we come together.”
Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee, presents a welcome plaque to Lori LoManto, CEO of Global Motivational Counseling Center, during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “Global Motivational continues to uplift Parsippany through compassionate counseling, personal development, and mental wellness services. Your commitment empowers individuals and families to heal, grow, and thrive—creating lasting impact throughout our community,” Cahill said.
Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee and Executive Board Member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the significance of the moment. “Supporting businesses like Global Motivational Counseling Center is vital, not only for economic growth but also for the well-being of our residents. Their commitment to accessible mental health services strengthens Parsippany and enhances the quality of life for all who call our township home.”
Councilman Justin Musella also praised the new addition to the business community. “This center represents the kind of progress Parsippany needs—bringing valuable services directly to our residents while reinforcing the idea that mental health is a priority. I commend Lori and her team for their dedication and vision.”
The ribbon cutting was attended by Lori LoManto and employees of Global Motivational Counseling Center, Mayor James Barberio, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilman Justin Musella, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill and Raviram Medapati, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, and Board Member Nicolas Limanov.
“The services you provide are invaluable to many families in crisis, and they are a welcome addition to Parsippany,” said Mayor Barberio.
Guests enjoyed a spread of delicious food served during the Global Motivational Counseling Center ribbon cutting celebration, adding to the warm and festive atmosphere of the event.
Global Motivational Counseling Center offers both in-person and virtual counseling sessions, led by bilingual licensed therapists. Services are available in English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for adolescents, adults, seniors, couples, and families throughout Morris County. The center accepts most insurance carriers, including Medicare and Medicaid, making care more accessible than ever.
Mayor James Barberio, Lori LoManto, Frank Cahill, and Councilman Justin Musella proudly display LoManto’s newly released book Finding the Eyes to See during the Global Motivational Counseling Center ribbon cutting ceremony.
Lori LoManto Releases New Book “Finding the Eyes to See“
In addition to celebrating the ribbon cutting, Lori LoManto is also marking another milestone with the release of her new book, Finding the Eyes to See. In this compelling memoir, she shares her journey through childhood illness, trauma, and addiction, and how she ultimately found healing and renewal.
With honesty and courage, Lori details her path from suffering to recovery, offering hope and encouragement to those facing similar struggles. Today, with “new eyes to see,” she has come full circle — turning her past experiences into strength as a licensed therapist and community leader.
The book has been praised by professionals and readers alike. Dr. David Migliore, DDS, PhD, described it as “a must-read for anyone who has suffered from addiction, or has a family member or friend who has. The wisdom in this book is a product of a life that found a way to see beauty with new eyes.”
LoManto’s story not only inspires but also reflects the mission of Global Motivational Counseling Center: to empower individuals and families to heal, grow, and thrive through compassionate and accessible mental health care.
PARSIPPANY — Abel Mathukutty, 18, of Lake Hiawatha, has been indicted by a grand jury sitting in Ocean County in connection with a fatal crash that occurred on Route 37 in Toms River on Saturday, May 24, 2025.
Mathukutty faces charges of vehicular homicide, assault by auto, leaving the scene of a motor vehicle crash causing death, and leaving the scene of a motor vehicle crash causing serious bodily injury.
The Crash
At approximately 7:25 p.m., Toms River Police responded to reports of a crash near the easternmost portion of Route 37, close to the Aqua Blu restaurant. Officers discovered a white Mercedes sedan that had collided with a utility pole.
The driver, Deborah Barone, 59, of Toms River, and her husband, Michael Barone, 64, both sustained serious injuries. Deborah Barone was transported to Community Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries. Michael Barone was later transferred to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, treated for his injuries, and released.
Investigators determined that an Infiniti sedan struck the Mercedes on the driver’s side, forcing it into the utility pole. The Infiniti fled the scene, continuing eastbound over the Thomas A. Mathis Bridge.
Arrest in Seaside Park
A description of the suspect vehicle was broadcast, and shortly before 8 p.m., Seaside Park Police located a heavily damaged Infiniti sedan matching the description. Officers noted deployed airbags and significant passenger-side damage.
The driver was identified as Mathukutty, who was taken into custody at the scene without incident. He was transported to the Ocean County Jail and later released under New Jersey’s bail reform policies.
Speed a Factor
Further investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Vehicular Homicide Squad revealed that Mathukutty’s vehicle was traveling at 76 miles per hour in a 50 m.p.h. zone at the time of the crash.
The case will proceed in Ocean County Superior Court.
Jennifer pictured with her grandmother on her 100th birthday at the nursing home
PARSIPPANY — What began as a personal mission of compassion has blossomed into a community-driven effort to support local seniors in need. Jennifer Lembo and Dawn King, both Parsippany residents, have teamed up to expand their heartwarming initiative, “Adopt a Grandparent,” a program focused on helping elderly residents who are without families or financial support.
The origins of the program trace back to 2017, when Jennifer’s grandmother was in a nursing home. Seeing so many residents without visitors or family touched her deeply. For five years, Jennifer cooked meals for those residents, offering companionship along with nourishment. After experiencing personal loss in 2022, Jennifer felt a renewed calling to grow her mission.
Teaming up with her friend Dawn King, the two women formalized their efforts into “Adopt a Grandparent,” a program through which they provide services such as lawn care, snow removal, and heating oil assistance to seniors in need. Jennifer said, “We’re hoping to bring in more local businesses to help make an even bigger difference.”
One such partner is Anthony’s Landscaping and Design, which stepped up recently when a 92-year-old resident needed lawn care. Jennifer reached out, and Anthony agreed to provide bi-weekly service at a steep discount — around 50% — and Jennifer and Dawn covered the full cost out of pocket. It’s one of many examples of the team quietly stepping in to support elderly neighbors.
Jennifer also collects donations at her salon, where contributions go toward helping fill seniors’ oil tanks for the winter. With the holiday season approaching, they’ve also launched special donation efforts to spread extra cheer and provide additional support to seniors.
The program operates simply: if a senior needs help, they or a caregiver can contact Jennifer or Dawn directly. The two then coordinate with trusted local vendors to fulfill the request — with no strings attached.
Now, they’re inviting other Parsippany businesses to join their growing network of compassion. Whether it’s a landscaper, contractor, oil provider, or just a caring donor, every contribution helps ensure no senior is forgotten.
Donations can be dropped off at Jennifer Lembo’s salon, located at 55 Parsippany Road, in Whippany.
For those interested in becoming a business partner or supporter of the “Adopt a Grandparent” initiative, please reach out to Jennifer at (973) 723-1000. The Facebook group can be joined here – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1018525275759867
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, September 2025. Click here to view the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany High School was ranked the 102nd best high school in New Jersey in the U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best High Schools rankings. Nationally, Parsippany High placed 2,055th. The rankings evaluated nearly 24,000 eligible public high schools across the country, with close to 18,000 receiving state and national placement.
Parsippany Hills High School also earned recognition, ranking 76th in the state and 1,534th nationally.
The U.S. News rankings are based on a combination of academic performance, graduation rates, and college readiness. Parsippany High’s subject proficiency rates from the New Jersey Student Learning Assessments show:
Mathematics: 91%
Reading: 67%
Science: 43%
Graduation Rate: 93%
Local Rankings
Several neighboring public high schools also earned strong placements in the 2025 report:
Parsippany High School: #102 NJ / #2,055 National
Madison High School: #77 NJ / #1,550 National
Jefferson Township High School: #228 NJ / #7,003 National
Mountain Lakes High School: #34 NJ / #663 National
Morris Hills High School: #57 NJ / #1,198 National
Montville High School: #62 NJ / #1,361 National
Randolph High School: #73 NJ / #1,513 National
Parsippany Hills High School: #76 NJ / #1,534 National
Whippany Park High School: #84 NJ / #1,632 National
Morris Knolls High School: #90 NJ / #1,787 National
Hanover Park High School: #114 NJ / #2,194 National
Morristown High School: #134 NJ / #3,044 National
Why Rankings Matter
“Students and families need data to help them make one of the most important decisions of their academic journey. Our Best High Schools rankings provide the insights to help them identify schools that will prepare students for college success,” said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for education at U.S. News. “Access to information isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for planning a student’s future.”
