A Burtons Grill & Bar typically spans ~6,200 sq ft, seats ~200 guests inside and ~40 outside, combines an open, exhibition-style kitchen with a central bar, offers a blend of communal, booth, and private seating, and dedicates about one-third of its space to kitchen and service operations.
PARSIPPANY — District 15Fifteen has announced a slate of new retail and restaurant tenants set to open in 2025 or early 2026. Seven additional leases totaling over 15,000 square feet are nearing finalization. Retail opportunities ranging from 1,200 to 6,000 square feet remain available.
The development features 58,600 square feet of commercial space and quickly becomes a culinary and lifestyle hub. Confirmed tenants include:
Kura Revolving Sushi Bar – A tech-driven Japanese dining experience where fresh sushi arrives via conveyor belt and is served tableside.
Burtons Grill & Bar – A polished American restaurant with 22 locations nationwide, offering scratch-made dishes, allergy-friendly menus, and exceptional service.
Meximodo – A trendy Mexican concept from LeMalt Hospitality Group, famed for its Guinness World Record tequila collection.
Al-Basha – A Middle Eastern and Mediterranean restaurant previously recognized by USA Today.
Haraz Coffee House – A specialty coffee shop known for authentic Yemeni coffee and fresh, flavorful offerings.
Brunswick Burger House – A new burger and chicken concept from the Dream Big restaurant group.
Moxie Salon and Beauty Bar – New Jersey’s largest full-service salon and beauty destination.
With its strategic location and dynamic mix of tenants, District 15Fifteen continues to shape a new downtown for Parsippany.
Residents Urged to Take Precautions During Extreme Heat Warning
The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning through Wednesday June 24 until 8:00 p.m. with temperatures of up 100 degrees.
Stay safe from the heat by drinking plenty of water and staying indoors. If you see someone suffering from a heat emergency, call 911.
Signs and symptoms of heat-related illness include: high body temperature (103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher); hot, red, dry, or damp skin; a fast, strong pulse; a headache, dizziness, nausea and/or confusion, and losing consciousness.
The Morris County Office on Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming reminds senior citizens and vulnerable Morris County residents that the level of heat and humidity expected may cause heat stress during outdoor exertion or extended exposure.
Residents are encouraged to check on elderly family members and neighbors during this time. Please do not leave children, adults or pets in vehicles.
If you are having difficulty dealing with the heat, please check with your municipal Office of Emergency Management or police department in each of the county’s 39 towns to find a cooling shelter in your community. You also can call NJ 211.
The Morris County Office of Emergency Management will closely monitor the excessive heat advisory and coordinate with municipalities to offer any needed assistance over the next few days.
If you have not already done so, please take the time to register with Smart 911, a free emergency call service available to Morris County residents that provides first responders key information about you and your family members during an emergency.
PARSIPPANY — The Golden Age Club of Saint Peter Church is bringing the community together for an afternoon of music, food, and friendship at its upcoming “Summer Fun” celebration on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. The event will take place at the East Hanover Manor, located at 16 Eagle Rock Avenue, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Attendees can look forward to a delightful luncheon, one complimentary drink, and live entertainment provided by the talented Joe Zisa and Friends. Known for their engaging performances, Zisa and his band promise to bring energy and enjoyment to this special summer gathering.
Tickets are priced at $57.00 for members and $65.00 for non-members. All payments must be received by Monday, July 7. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged to ensure participation.
For reservations and more information, please contact Doris O’Rourke at [email protected].
This fun-filled event offers a wonderful opportunity for seniors and community members to connect, enjoy good food, and celebrate the season together.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany High School Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony was a dignified and heartfelt celebration, honoring the accomplishments of this year’s graduates. The program opened with a stirring performance of “Overture for Winds” by the Parsippany High School Combined Bands under the direction of Erin Neglio, followed by the traditional processional, “Pomp & Circumstance.” Student Council President Eva Schmieder led the Flag Salute and offered warm welcoming remarks, with the National Anthem beautifully performed by the Parsippany High School Choir, directed by Christine Wilson. The Alma Mater, sung by the graduating class, added a nostalgic touch. Salutatorian Ian Ali addressed his peers with thoughtful reflections, followed by greetings from Dr. Denis Mulroony and a special dedication from Board of Education member Michelle Shappell. Principal Melissa Carucci delivered her remarks before Valedictorian Lithra Sankari took the stage. The ceremony featured a touching dedication song, “Great Adventure,” performed by the school choir. Senior Class President Jaan Shahzad passed the senior gavel, symbolizing leadership transition, before Principal Carucci presented the graduates. Board of Education President Alison Cogan and member Timothy Berrios conferred the diplomas. The ceremony concluded with a formal recessional to “Mt. Healthy March,” conducted by Gregory Dalakian, bringing the memorable evening to a proud and celebratory close.
The event marked a significant milestone for the graduates preparing to embark on their next chapter. Below is the complete list of Parsippany High School’s Class of 2025 graduates, presented alphabetically by last name.
Vishwa R. Acharya, Wyatt Adams, Yamie Aguirre, Jawad Ahmadi, Isabel Sabrina Alameda, Ian Ali, Arshan Syed Ali, Thomas J. Allen, Carolyn Rose Allen, Bhavisha Alwani, Omar A. Amin, Sanjana Amudhan, Derek Costa Araujo, Addison Patricia Arcaro, Aashna Arora, Ali M. Asmaeilzadah, Yasemin Nazli Ayaz, Mohamed Said El Sayed Ibrahim Badr, Laila Sophia Bakhtiar, Sahana Anand Balamurali, Gianna K. Balani, Jenna Grace Beck, Ceyla Beg, Gabriella Nelida Bermudez, Aarjun Bodade, Zeshaan Ali Bokhari, Khalil Nasir Bonner, John Bottarini, Jared J. Brot, Tayla Bui and Gabriella Gela-Rose Bukwich.
Bryan David Cali, Margarete Joy Calkins, Brooklyn Alana Cameron, Fabricio Ariel Casco, Amelia Castro, Jadan P Centeno, Leila Jade Chaoub, Tirthraj R. Chauhan, Bhumika B. Chavan, Anisha Chhabra, Marisa Ann Christ, Karla Moreno Clavijo, Lucas Neal Coe, Thomas John Cogan, Nicole Marie Corcino, Alyssa Ann Corforte, Gabriel Gold Correa, Sofia Rodriguez Cruz, Anvi Ganesh Dalvi, Van Dang, Amanda Ann Dean, Samuel S. Gustin Diaz, Paul Thomas Lo Dico, Risha Marathe Dinesh, Mason Joseph Van Dunk, Camila Sierra Esquivel, Arpita Hitesh Goradia, Nicolas Robert Graziano, Lukas Grippo, Jonathan David Gubin, Sean Hansberry, Trey Lukas Hendershot, Michael Charles Henry, Samuel Hsiao, Martin Arjun Hudelmaier, Sidney Harold Huppert, Matthew Khang Huynh, and Khalea Chevonne Hyman.
Evangeline En-Yi Iman, Nikoloz Iveri Inashvili, Shreya Iyer, Shruti Iyer, Christopher Maurice Jackson, Ava Jimenez-Jacobus, Ariana Rose Johns, Manas Joshi, Kevin S. Regan Jr, Andrew Foster Smith, Jr., Georgia Athena Kachulis, Sarvajit Ashwin Karanth, Elisabeth Alexandra Karkanias, Aubrey Gianna Kaye, Olivia Kelley, Dana Joy Krulan, Shiva Lamichhane, Genevieve Li, Edward Dennis Limanov, Fidel Gregorio Lopez, Camryn Renee Lorencovitz, Kelly Lu, Ava Jane Macaluso, Tyler Burton Maloney, Simran Singh Manhas, Benjamin Thomas Mathew, Abel Mathukutty, Yaury Matos, Dennis E. Mesci, Averi R. Monochello, Kathryn V. Montecuollo, Jessenia Mora, Ashton Kennedy Morey, Sarina Mostatabi, Danny Moughrabi, Ryan Murphy, Amrita Nadathur, Yashasvi Nekkanti, Noah Nelson, and Shamili Nimmala.
Katherine Michelle Orellana, Rafael Osorio, William S. Paguay, Tanush Panuganti, Olivia Sondra Parenti, Matthew James Parker, Shriya S. Patel, Devin Parag Patel, Rishi Patel, Jash Patel, Anya U. Patel, Om Patel, Krish Rajesh Pipalia, Joshua J. Piperato, Sharan Pithwa, Ann Ofoliwa Portuphy, Rithwik Rakesh Pothumudi, Christopher Ever Quijandria, Laila Qureshi, Medina Rahmat, Prasad Ramaradj, Carlos Francisco Ramirez, Roma Rangaswamy, Isabel Monsalve Restrepo, Zachary Villiamaria Reyes, Isabella Grace Rivera, Jonathan Rojas, Yug J. Rojivadiya, Dhruv Roy, Denys Ruchkin, Vanessa Sanchez, Lithra Sankari, Eva Leigh Schmieder, Mallikaarjun Senthil-Kumar, Rishi A. Shah, Sohan Rakesh Shah, Karishma Shah, Suravi V. Shah, Angad Mohit Shah, Jaan A. Shahzad, Meghna Singh, Aanya R. Sinha, Arthur Smith, Emily Lynn Smith, Chandan Sreekumar, Cole James Stauffer, Jake Ryan Stauffer, Zachary Elijah Stockdale-Smith, Samantha Sunga, Bryan Carlo D. Sunga, Jason Robert Swartz, Emma Catherine Swenson, Angelica Marie Torres, Prisha Trivedi, Esma N. Turudu, Nazli Ucar, Denzel Okechi Uhuegbu, Isabella Morales Urina, Krish Vachhani, Jay Vaghela, Brian Cruz Vargas, Jaslyn Vargas, Milan Vega, Sanjeev Venkatachalamurthy, Michael George Vuolo, Mehak Wadhan, Xavier Mark Santos Ward, Sylene Monet Whittle, Hope Hannah-Marie Wiltshire, Ryan Joseph Wink, Dron A. Zaveri, Eric Zhang, Kevin Zheng, Haohang Zheng, Nicholas Gilpathis Zigman and Justin Anthony Zitelli.
MORRIS COUNTY – He authored landmark legislation known as “pass the trash,” signed into law in 2018, to keep sexual predators out of the classroom. Assemblyman Jay Webber wants to keep student athletes safe from predatory coaches.
On Thursday, the Assemblyman introduced a bill requiring anyone working with student athletes to undergo annual background checks.
“This isn’t the Saturday morning Little League of our childhood. This is a multi-billion-dollar industry, with the push to discover the next Shohei Ohtani or Caitlin Clark. The increasing demand for coaches and trainers and the popularity of travel teams has created more opportunities for our athletes while at the same time increasing their chances of being exposed to harm,” Webber (R-Morris) said. “Sadly, men and women who want to harm children find ways to work with children. And the lack of regulation and oversight within many youth sports makes it an attractive opportunity for predators.”
The bill comes on the heels of an explosive NJ.com investigation published this week that found more than 100 coaches, trainers, and sports complex owners have been accused of sex crimes against minors, 57 of those happening since 2020. Many were able to exploit the lack of background checks or inaccurate, out-of-date offender databases to gain access to victims.
A lack of uniform state law has allowed problematic coaches to avoid scrutiny and continue operating in the coaching realm. Despite thousands of youth sports teams across more than 20 sports, requirements for coaches vary drastically from league to league. Some require stringent background checks while others have none at all. The investigation found that some coaches with formal criminal charges are not on these lists. Some are on the list but still actively coaching.
The state sex offender registry, created under Megan’s Law in 1994, does little to deter offenders or prevent sex crimes, according to a 2009 study cited in the investigation. Seventy-two percent of that law’s offenders don’t appear on the registry. Only 14 of the 118 coaches accused of sex crimes since 2015 are registered sex offenders online.
Webber, a father of eight and a volunteer baseball, softball, and basketball coach, said he’s glad the NJ.com investigation has brought this critical issue to light.
“My children have been in every sport imaginable, and overall, sports have provided our kids with tremendous experiences and incredible opportunities. Parents perform their due diligence to keep their kids safe while they enjoy youth sports, but the tools are broken,” Webber said. “My bill will create uniform mandates for criminal background checks and tough penalties to encourage compliance for all youth sports coaches, trainers, and anyone working with our young athletes to keep predators away.”
PARSIPPANY — The Gandhian Society, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Parsippany and the Zakir Husain Study Circle, hosted a special “Meet and Greet” in Parsippany to honor Shri Vivek Tankha, a distinguished Member of India’s Parliament and committed Rotarian, for his extraordinary philanthropic and humanitarian service.
Mr. Tankha, a Senior Advocate in the Supreme Court of India and current Member of the Rajya Sabha, was recognized for his long-standing dedication to advancing healthcare, education, and development in rural regions across India. His leadership and advocacy have positioned him as a powerful symbol of service and justice.
Event organizer Rajender Dichpally of the Gandhian Society joined Rotary Club of Parsippany President Santosh Peddi in presenting Mr. Tankha with official citations of appreciation. Bhadra Butala, founder of the Gandhian Society, also presented a commemorative plaque alongside Mahesh Wani, Niren Choudhary, and Rajender Dichpally. Rotary members Santosh Peddi and Mahender Reddy honored Mr. Tankha with a Rotary pin and additional accolades.
The evening featured a vibrant cultural performance by local youth showcasing traditional Indian dance, adding a festive touch to the celebration. Guests were also excited to learn about the upcoming screening of Renaissance Man, a biopic on Mr. Tankha’s life and contributions. The film will be featured at the New York Film Festival on June 21, offering a cinematic tribute to his impactful work in uplifting underserved communities.
Mr. Tankha previously served as Additional Solicitor General of India and is widely respected for his contributions to public life through the lens of service, law, and advocacy.
The event highlighted the shared values of compassion, justice, and community leadership—core principles of both the Gandhian Society and Rotary International.
Parsippany Hills High School's Class of 2025 celebrates their graduation, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another for 248 proud Vikings.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School proudly celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2025 in a ceremony filled with tradition, pride, and excitement for the future.
The event began with a formal processional to Edward Elgar’s iconic “Pomp & Circumstance,” performed by the school’s talented band. Athon Ros led the Flag Salute, followed by a stirring performance of the National Anthem by the combined choir and band.
Shyanne Liu, the Class of 2025 Salutatorian, offered inspiring remarks, followed by Gianna Imperati’s heartfelt “History of the Class of 2025.” This year’s Valedictorian, Matthew Ho, addressed his peers with a message of perseverance and vision. Ho, who will attend Carnegie Mellon University, was recognized for his academic excellence, leadership, and dedication throughout his years at Parsippany Hills.
Principal Dr. Matthew J. Thompson led the presentation of graduates, with Superintendent Dr. Robert Sutter making the opening remarks. Board of Education President Mr. Jack Raia participated in the conferment of diplomas, representing the district’s pride in the graduating class.
The ceremony concluded with the Parsippany Hills High School Alma Mater singing and a grand recessional to the “Golden Celebration Overture” by Christopher Bemotas.
A total of 248 graduates from the Class of 2025 shared their post-secondary plans, ranging from top universities and career education to military service and full-time employment. The list reflects this exceptional group of students’ diverse paths and bright futures.
Congratulations to the Parsippany Hills High School Class of 2025!
Alexandra Maria Acevedo, Jaylenne Acosca, Gerar Aguirre-Tellez, Larissa Alasmar, Mursal Zahra Alizada, Muhammad Shahzeb Amir, Nola Anne Andersen, Marcin Angelov, Devin Appice, Anika Arora, Ishika Arrunategui, Keyla Gordillo Asitimbay, Sydney Rose Atwell, Prisha Bakshi, Xavier Tiburcio Socarras Ballesteros, Gavin John Barbrack, Andrew Pecer Baumann, Christopher Eric Becher, Sydney Ann Beehler, Joyce J. Bekiet, De’Marco D. Berry, Aaryan D. Bhatt, Shivanshi Bhatnagar, Ananya Bhargava, Mohammad Daniel Bhatti, Madeline Kathryn Bland, Grace Ann Bolcar, Gelia J. Brutus, Andrew A. Cafe, Alison Cai, Lilli Rose Calamita, Eleni Antonietta Calicchio, Joshua Vicente Camero, Louis Edward Caponegro, Nicole Gabrielle Carvajal, Ray Castillo, Abhik Chakraborty, Shamik Chakraborty, Omkar Chandane, Kira Ann Chebishev, Ivan Chen, Christian D. Chiu, Mahima Chowdhary, Daniel Mark Conway, Damian E. Corrales, Ilario Ricardo Cruz, and Jazier Cruz.
Anisha Das, Charmi Dave, Mariam Davituliani, Andrew Maynard Dehlin, Anthony James Dell, Esha Desai, Vikram Devulapally, Jia Dewnani, Sia Dewnani, Lilith Eve Dowd, Elizabeth Rose Duffy, Daniel Joseph Durso, Sri Maithreyi Edem, Justin Matthew Eisner, Ronald Ellerbee, Nadeen Elmorsy, Mazen M. Elsoukkary, Gabriela Sarah Farah, Simra Farhan, Manha Fatima, Nicholas Manuel Ferreira, Allison Elizabeth Flamio, Satya Samhitha Gabbita, Princy Gade, Jender Harley Garzon Galviz, Lucas Garcia, Owen Zachary Garcia, Sofia Cameron Garcia, Sofia Isabel Gaza, Carin J. Genovese, Danaisha A. Gibbs, Rishika V. Gohil, Yurly Goncharenko, Akshat Goyal, Lara A. Habib, Candace Elizabeth Hardy, Judy Mahmoud Helal, AJ Herre, Zachary Jefferson Holbert-Paszko, Brandon X. Huang, and Sophie Elaine Hutchinson.
Sophia N. Italiano, Deena Ramos Ignacio, Gianna Grace Imperati, Maxwell Egan Ingersoll, Suzanne Michele Irwin, Azmi Tai Istrefi, Shubhii G. Jatkar, Johan Johney, Connor Michael Johnson, Juliana Elise Jolley, Jada Danielle Jones, Nazaiah Elijah Jones, Pablo S. Juarez, Adele Rose Kasper, Isabelle Mae Kelson, Keshav Khandelwal, Parnika Khanna, Vricika Sai Kilaru, Kaylie Brooke Kornreich, Mason Drago Kosovich, Daksh Kotadia, Nathaniel Atcicus Krawchuk, Alexander Aryan Kumar, Acharva Kumar, Olivia Christine Kumburis, Rohan Harish Kurani, Clark Gabriel Laforteza, Maya Lau, Samuel Chung-Yin Lau, Natan Ian Leyzerov, Rafael Josiah Lindsay, Shyanne Liu, Swaci Sudheer Mahajan, Hemashree Mahesh, Cayden Stephen Mahon, Marwah Malik, Sri Naga Pragna Mandava, Addison Catherine Marcell, Amelia Grace Marotta, Aryan Masaldan, Aaron Mathew, Jacob John Mathew, Quinn Shea McNulcy, Valerie Mendez, Brian Thomas Metz, Meghan Riley Metz, Ossian Alejandro Miller, Faiqa Mir, Cooper Talladega Moffatt, Riley Kaelyn Mogan, Elijah Stephen Morris, Shaniya Mott, Zoe Muriente, Arjun J. Narkar, Aaron Victor Nathan, Sofia Nichols, Kaden Gregory Nicolaou, Jade Lucia Nieczkowski, Hazly Solano Nieto, and Ryan Edward Nolan.
Ali Amir Ozaltin, Palki Palki, Raina V. Parikh, Jeremy Park, Aman Patel, Ansh Patel, Deep Pankaj Patel, Dylan Amie Patel, Jiya Manish Patel, Jiya Parag Patel, Krishna A. Patel, Love Vimal Patel, Mahi Patel, Manav Patel, Nikki Patel, Pricci Patel, Shiv Sanjaykumar Patel, Thomas James Pawlusiak, Josie Faith Pellecchia, Nadir Ky’Shon Pettiway, Madeleine Lowri Phillips, Peyton Elizabeth Poff, Krystal Porcillo, Brandon Proctor, Isabella Grace Rabadi, Muhammad Ali Rabbani, Sameeksha Rajeev, Nader R. Rawshani, Vedant Ray, Hrishikesh Vaddi Reddy, Miguel Angel Medrano Reyes, Tyler Jeffrey Rhinesmith, Sean Allen Ries, Sarah Robinson, Isabella Bryanna Rodriguez, Emma Marie Roeder-Salcedo, Athon M. Ros, Daniella Rossec, Samir Saha, Thania Michel Salazar-Morales, Charles O. Saldarini, Marcos A. Santos, Alan Rohic Saravanan, Atilla Togan Savaci, Aadi Shah, Aarya Shah, Krisha Niravkumar Shah, Meshva H. Shah, Christie Shao, Vahishta Sheikh, Arya Mahesh Shewale, Vithun Sivaraj, Trevor James Snellings, Hetvi B. Sojitra, Yash Bhavik Sojitra, Alexander James Spada, Nicholas Robert Spada, Tatiana Sperling, Marcus Stamler, Stefan M. Stojkovic, Alexander M. Stringham, Santos Yair Suazo Joyas, and Sudarshan Surendranathan.
Harini Talluri, Hasini Talluri, Meehira R. Tarpara, Arsha Mirzakhani Fard Tehrani, Rosha Mirzakhani Fard Tehrani, Lidia Jo Terrell, Adison Thieleman, Sydnee Faith Kathleen Thom, Shambhavi Tiwari, Matthew Tortorici, Keegan Douglas Tracy, Do Nguyen My Tran, Jacob T. Tran, Harry Scott Trella, Raymond Trunk, Teesta Tulsyan, Benjamin Lucas Ucab, Kirubhaharan K. Uthanumallian, Devance Andreas Vargas, Diego Antonio Vargas-Paz, Jimena E. Mancia Vasquez, Gabrielle Guendulain Vega, Ava Grace Vicenzino, Shivam Bhagyesh Vyas, Tanish Vyas, Brielle Elizabeth Wallace, Sunny Shi-Rong Yang, Rebecca A. Yanni, Tabitha Danis Ysidro, Andrew Letian Zhang, and Jie Zheng.
PARSIPPANY — Jigisha Desai’s journey with kidney disease has never been easy, but the past several months have tested her resilience like never before. A Parsippany resident known for her community spirit and quiet strength, Jigisha has lived with chronic kidney disease for nearly two decades. Yet it wasn’t until last fall that the severity of her illness demanded a major, life-altering step.
In August 2024, her health began to deteriorate sharply. “I just started feeling sicker and weaker every day,” she recalled. “By October, it became clear that dialysis was no longer avoidable.”
After consultations with her medical team, Jigisha made the difficult decision to begin dialysis. The first step—placing a catheter—was delayed by both scheduling and healing time, a physically painful and emotionally draining wait. Once cleared, she opted for home dialysis, a path that offers some control but comes with its own intense challenges.
“Home dialysis isn’t just something you can jump into,” she explained. “It took months of training, trial, and adjustment just to get comfortable with the process.” Her home transformed into what she describes as “a mini-warehouse,” with boxes of sterile supplies stacked floor to ceiling and machines humming throughout the day and night.
But beyond the technical learning curve lies a harder reality: exhaustion. “It’s a full-time job,” Jigisha said. “Physically, I’m often wiped out. Mentally, it’s hard to keep up the fight every single day.” She experiences highs and lows, frequently battling fatigue and nausea while trying to maintain some normalcy in her family life.
Still, perhaps the greatest burden isn’t just the medical regimen, but the effect on her loved ones. “It’s not just my life that changed. My family has had to adapt too. We’ve all had to learn how to live differently,” she said. Her children navigate the emotional weight of seeing their mother in such a vulnerable state, while relatives provide daily support and encouragement.
Despite the hardship, Jigisha remains focused on one hope: a kidney transplant. She is currently listed at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston. Her transplant coordinator, Alyson Thorward, can be reached at (973) 322-5028. Jigisha’s blood type is O+, but St. Barnabas participates in the paired kidney exchange program—meaning donors of any blood type can potentially be matched through the national network.
Her story has already inspired many in Parsippany. Friends have organized awareness efforts, and neighbors continue to show support through messages, meals, and moral encouragement. Jigisha has become a symbol of perseverance—not through dramatic gestures, but through quiet, unwavering courage.
For now, the machines continue to whir in her living room, and the donor list still holds her name. But Jigisha Desai faces the future with resolve, reminding us all that even in the hardest chapters of life, hope endures.
Matthew Ho, Valedictorian of Parsippany Hills High School’s Class of 2025, will attend Carnegie Mellon University this fall.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School proudly celebrates the Class of 2025, with graduates pursuing various post-secondary paths that reflect their talents, ambitions, and diverse interests. Students have committed to programs nationwide, from prestigious institutions like Carnegie Mellon, Emory, Johns Hopkins, and NYU, to respected public universities including Rutgers, Penn State, and the University of Maryland. Many will continue their education at County College of Morris and other community colleges, while others are entering the workforce, the military, or taking a gap year. The comprehensive list of destinations showcases the academic excellence and preparedness of PHHS students as they take the next step in their personal and professional journeys.
Class of 2025 Profile:
4-Year College
77.78%
2 Year College
12.9%
Continued Education
1.25%
Career
5.65%
Gap Year
2.02%
Military
0.4%
Below is a complete list of where Parsippany Hills High School’s Class of 2025 is headed following graduation. A total of 248 graduates shared their post-secondary plans.
Lithra Sankari, the 2025 valedictorian of Parsippany High School, will attend Rutgers University–New Brunswick, where she has been accepted into the Honors College
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany High School’s Class of 2025 received their diplomas on Friday, June 20, marking the culmination of their high school journey and the beginning of exciting new chapters. The graduates head to various destinations, including prestigious universities, community colleges, military service, and professional careers. From institutions such as Princeton University, Cornell University, and the University of Michigan, to local schools like County College of Morris and Rutgers University, these students pursue diverse paths across the country and beyond. Below is a complete list of where the Class of 2025 is headed.
Class of 2025 Profile:
4-Year College
73.20%
2 Year College
14.10%
Employment
5.90%
Career
4.40%
Military
2.00%
Apprenticeship
0.50%
Below is a complete list of where Parsippany High School’s Class of 2025 is headed following graduation.
College
Graduate Name
Allegheny College
Andrew F Smith
Boston University
Shruti Iyer
Caldwell University
Sarina Mostatabi
Clemson University
Lukas Grippo
Coastal Carolina University
Addison Patricia Arcaro
Coastal Carolina University
Isabella Grace Rivera
Cornell University
Ian Ali
Cornell University
Roma Rangaswamy
County College of Morris
Wyatt Henry Adams
County College of Morris
Jawad Ahmadi
County College of Morris
Gabriella Nelida Bermudez
County College of Morris
Jared Joseph Brot
County College of Morris
Tayla Bui
County College of Morris
Tirthraj Rakesh Chauhan
County College of Morris
Nicole Marie Corcino
County College of Morris
Gabriel Gold Correa
County College of Morris
Yazmin Espinoza
County College of Morris
Erhan Ali Feldman
County College of Morris
Faith Marie Gilles
County College of Morris
Olivia Kelley
County College of Morris
Dana Joy Krulan
County College of Morris
Tyler Burton Maloney
County College of Morris
Abel Biju Mathukutty
County College of Morris
Averi Rowan Monochello
County College of Morris
Danny Moughrabi
County College of Morris
Rafael Osorio
County College of Morris
Matthew James Parker
County College of Morris
Jash Paresh Patel
County College of Morris
Joshua Joseph Piperato
County College of Morris
Jonathan Michael Rojas
County College of Morris
Yug Jaykumar Rojivadiya
County College of Morris
Denys Ruchkin
County College of Morris
Chandan Sreekumar
County College of Morris
Esma Nur Turudu
County College of Morris
Jaslyn Leigh Vargas
County College of Morris
Christopher E Quijandria
Drew University
Jessenia Mora
Drexel University
Shriya Patel
Drexel University
Krish Pipalia
Emory University
Kelly Lu
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus
Mohamed Said Badr
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus
Dennis Emir Mesci
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus
Laila Qureshi
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus
Nazli Ucar
Fashion Institute of Technology
Van Dang
Fashion Institute of Technology
Shamili Nimmala
Indiana University-Bloomington
Tanush Kumar Panuganti
Johnson & Wales University-Providence
Carolyn Rose Allen
Kean University
Krish Vachhani
Kean University
Sylene Monet Whittle
King’s College
Kevin Scott Regan
Louisiana State University
Christopher Maurice Jackson
Louisiana State University
Ryan Patrick Murphy
Montclair State University
Zeshaan Ali Bokhari
Montclair State University
Lucas Coe
Montclair State University
Enrick Das
Montclair State University
Manas Manish Joshi
Montclair State University
Brevin Koeck
Montclair State University
Alina Anne Kohut
Montclair State University
Genevieve Li
Montclair State University
Zachary V Reyes
Montclair State University
Jake Ryan Stauffer
Montclair State University
Denzel Okechi Uhuegbu
Montclair State University
Milan Evan Vega
New Jersey City University
David Russo Ferreira
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Vishwa Rushikesh Acharya
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Arshan Syed Ali
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Laila Bakhtiar
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Anvi Ganesh Dalvi
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Jivitesh Duddu
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Trey Lukas Hendershot
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Shiva Lamichhane
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Yashasvi Nekkanti
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Rishi Patel
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Sanjeev Venkatachalamurthy
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Eric Zhang
Northeastern University
Risha Dinesh
Northeastern University
Shreya Iyer
Northwood University
Rithwik Rakesh Pothumudi
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Main Campus
Ava Jane Macaluso
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Main Campus
Emma Catherine Swenson
Princeton University
Nikoloz Iveri Inashvili
Purdue University-Main Campus
Aarjun Bodade
Purdue University-Main Campus
Bryan David Cali
Purdue University-Main Campus
Sarvajit Ashwin Karanth
Purdue University-Main Campus
Benjamin T Mathew
Quinnipiac University
Devin Parag Patel
Ramapo College of New Jersey
Anisha Chhabra
Ramapo College of New Jersey
Marisa Christ
Rider University
Isabel Sabrina Alameda
Rider University
Cristina Isabella Garnica
Rochester Institute of Technology
Evangeline En-Yi Iman
Rowan University
Omar A Amin
Rowan University
Derek Araujo
Rowan University
Jadan Centeno
Rowan University
Sean Noah Deristin
Rowan University
Mohamed Fawzi Farag
Rowan University
Ava May Jimenez-Jacobus
Rowan University
Ashton Kennedy Morey
Rowan University
Noah Nelson
Rowan University
William Steven Paguay
Rowan University
Arthur Smith
Rowan University
Justin Anthony Zitelli
Montclair State University
Zeshaan Ali Bokhari
Montclair State University
Lucas Coe
Montclair State University
Enrick Das
Montclair State University
Manas Manish Joshi
Montclair State University
Brevin Koeck
Montclair State University
Alina Anne Kohut
Montclair State University
Genevieve Li
Montclair State University
Zachary V Reyes
Montclair State University
Jake Ryan Stauffer
Montclair State University
Denzel Okechi Uhuegbu
Montclair State University
Milan Evan Vega
New Jersey City University
David Russo Ferreira
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Vishwa Rushikesh Acharya
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Arshan Syed Ali
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Laila Bakhtiar
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Anvi Ganesh Dalvi
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Jivitesh Duddu
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Trey Lukas Hendershot
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Shiva Lamichhane
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Yashasvi Nekkanti
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Rishi Patel
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Sanjeev Venkatachalamurthy
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Eric Zhang
Northeastern University
Risha Dinesh
Northeastern University
Shreya Iyer
Northwood University
Rithwik Rakesh Pothumudi
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Main Campus
Ava Jane Macaluso
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Main Campus
Principal Melissa Carucci opened the Parsippany High School Senior Awards Ceremony with a warm and heartfelt welcome, setting the tone for an evening of celebration and recognition. Her words acknowledged the hard work, perseverance, and achievements of the Class of 2025, while also expressing gratitude to families, faculty, and community members for their continued support. As she concluded her introduction, the audience responded with enthusiastic applause, honoring her leadership and the remarkable accomplishments of the graduating seniors.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany High School recently held its annual Senior Awards ceremony, honoring outstanding members of the Class of 2025 for their academic achievements, leadership, service, and dedication. Colin Londergan and Allie Hiltz hosted the evening, during which students were recognized with scholarships and awards from local organizations, school departments, and community partners.
The event highlighted graduating seniors’ diverse talents and commitments, with accolades ranging from academic excellence and artistic contributions to athletic performance and community service. Awards were presented by groups including the Sons of Italy, American Legion 249, Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, PTA associations, and memorial foundations, reflecting strong community support for the school’s graduating class.
Award
Honoree
PHS Valedictorian Award
Lithra Sankari
PHS Salutatorian Award
Ian Ali
ADK-Mimi Veres Taylor Memorial Scholarship
Alyssa Corforte
American Legion 249
Emily Smith
Central Middle School Faculty Scholarship
Simran Manhas
Central PTA Alumni Scholarship
Christopher Jackson
Civics Award for Awareness
Nikloloz Insashvili
Dr. Frank A. Calabria Memorial Scholarship
Emily Smith
The Michael R. Codella Female/Male MVP Trophy
Amanda Dean
The Michael R. Codella Female/Male MVP Trophy
Francesco DeMary
Digital Designer Award
Lucas Coe
Dr. Mamdouh Kelaid Memorial Scholarship
Ian Ali
Dr. Mamdouh Kelaid Memorial Scholarship
Ariana Johns
Drumbeat Award
Roma Rangaswamy
The Ed Gattie Memorial Scholarship
Georgia Kachulis
Eddie Jackson Memorial Scholarship
Deric Yoon
Emil Johnson Award
Isabella Rivera
Essex Watercolor Art Award
Laila Bakhtiar
Essex Watercolor Art Award
Prisha Trivedi
Excellence in Biological Science
Ian Ali
Exceptional Ceramic Artist Award
Dana Krulan
Excellence in Chemistry
Lithra Sankari
Excellence in Computer Science
Vishwa Acharya
Excellence in Computer Science
Risha Dinesh
Excellence in Culinary Arts
Esma Turudu
Excellence in Environmental Science
Yashasvi Nekkanti
Excellence in French
Shreya Iyer
Excellence in Italian
Bryan Cali
Excellence in Math
Sarvajit Karanth
Excellence in Physics
Prisha Trivedi
Excellence in Social Studies Writing Award
Ian Ali
Excellence in Spanish
Prisha Trivedi
Fine Arts Awards
Samantha Sunga
Frederick Douglass Scholarship Award
Gianna Balani
Frederick Douglass Scholarship Award
Tayla Bui
Frederick Douglass Scholarship Award
Margarete Calkins
Frederick Douglass Scholarship Award
Faith Gilles
Frederick Douglass Scholarship Award
Chris Jackson
Frederick Douglass Scholarship Award
Rafael Osorio
Frederick Douglass Scholarship Award
Sylene Whittle
Frederick Douglass Scholarship Award
Hope Wiltshire
Gard and Anne O’Harra Scholarship
Vanessa Sanchez
Gary Vittorio Memorial Scholarship – (athletics)
Angad Shah
George Bohr Award
Sean Hansberry
George Bohr Award
Andrew Smith
George P. Johnson Memorial Scholarship
Emily Smith
Hawk Nest Awards
Amanda Dean
Hawk Nest Awards
Georgia Kachulis
High Note Award
Sarva Karanth
High Note Award
Aanya Sinha
Jace Larry Shollenberger Scholarship
Sean Hansberry
Jackie Scura ‘Chance for Success’ Scholarship
Ava Jimenez-Jacobus
Jackie Scura ‘Chance for Success’ Scholarship
Dhruv Roy
Jack Pruden Memorial Athletic Scholarship
Devin Patel
The Kanai Lal and Charu Bala Memorial Scholarship
Bhumika Chavan
The Kanai Lal and Charu Bala Memorial Scholarship
Ann Portuphy
The Kanai Lal and Charu Bala Memorial Scholarship
Lithra Sankari
The Kanai Lal and Charu Bala Memorial Scholarship
Aanya Sinha
Knollwood Alumni – Melvin Roth Memorial Scholarship
Christopher Jackson
Lake Hiawatha School Alumni Scholarship
Nikoloz Inashvili
Lake Hiawatha School Alumni Scholarship
Elisabeth Karkanias
The Love like Ashley Memorial Scholarship
Simran Manhas
The Love like Ashley Memorial Scholarship
Frank Mauriello
Mary Powles Art Award
Isabel Alameda
Mary Powles Art Award
Samantha Sunga
Math Students of the Year
Aashna Arora
Math Students of the Year
Prisha Trivedi
Math Team Award
Lithra Sankari
Mayor Barberio Award
Camryn Lorencovitz
Military Service Award
Amelia Castro
Military Service Award
Yaury Matos
Military Service Award
Rishi Shah
Montville Unico Italian Studies
Ariana Johns
MCPCA
Aanya Sinhas
Morris Cty College Fair Committee
Olivia Kelley
Morris County Secondary School Athletic Directors Scholar Athlete
Georgia Kachulis
Morris County Secondary School Athletic Directors Scholar Athlete
Bryan Sunga
Mt Tabor Outstanding Music Award
Ian Ali
National Merit Commended Students
Ian Ali
National Merit Commended Students
Sarvajit Karanth
National Merit Commended Students
Mallikaarjun Senthil Kumar
National Merit Commended Students
Rishi Shah
National Merit Commended Students
Aanya Sinha
NJAC Conference Award
Marisa Christ
NJAC Conference Award
Bryan Sunga
NJSIAA Scholar Athlete
Georgia Kachulis
Northvail School Alumni Scholarship
Sahana Balamurali
Outstanding Senior English Student Award
Nika Inashvili
Outstanding Painter Award
Emma Swenson
Outstanding Photographer
Nazli Ucar
Outstanding Physical Education Students of the Year
Gabriella Bukwich
Outstanding Physical Education Students of the Year
Ian Ali
Parent Teacher Student Association Scholarship
Ian Ali
Parent Teacher Student Association Scholarship
Sean Hansberry
Parent Teacher Student Association Scholarship
Georgia Kachulis
Parent Teacher Student Association Scholarship
Erin Kirk
Parent Teacher Student Association Scholarship
Camryn Lorencovitz
Parent Teacher Student Association Scholarship
Anya Patel
Parent Teacher Student Association Scholarship
Devin Patel
Parent Teacher Student Association Scholarship
Ann Portuphy
Parent Teacher Student Association Scholarship
Carlos Ramirez
Parent Teacher Student Association Scholarship
Roma Rangaswamy
Parent Teacher Student Association Scholarship
Lithra Sankari
Parent Teacher Student Association Scholarship
Emily Smith
Parents of the Gifted and Talented
Lithra Sanari
Parsippany Chamber of Commerce Scholarship
Jenna Beck
Parsippany Education Foundation, Joseph Windish Memorial Scholarship
Nicolas Iannucci of Parsippany, a junior majoring in Finance at Eastern Connecticut State University, earned a spot on the Spring 2025 Dean’s List for his academic excellence.
PARSIPPANY — Eastern Connecticut State University recently released its Dean’s List for the spring 2025 semester, in which 1,302 students were recognized for maintaining high GPAs.
Among them is Nicolas Iannucci, a full-time junior majoring in Finance. Iannucci graduated from Parsippany Hills High School, Class of 23.
Nicolas Iannucci of Parsippany, a junior majoring in Finance at Eastern Connecticut State University, earned a spot on the Spring 2025 Dean’s List for his academic excellence. A graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, Nicolas was a standout swimmer—serving as team captain his senior year, holding school records in all relays, earning team MVP honors in 2021–22, and receiving the YMCA MVP award in 2020–21. He also ranked in the top five in the conference for the 100 breaststroke and was recognized with academic honors all four years.
To qualify for the Dean’s List, full-time students must complete a minimum of 12 credits in letter-graded courses with an average GPA of 3.5 or higher in the semester. Part-time students are eligible if they’ve accumulated 15 or more credits of letter-graded coursework with an average GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Eastern Connecticut State University is the state of Connecticut’s public liberal arts university, serving upwards of 4,000 students annually on its Willimantic campus. A residential campus offering 41 majors and 68 minors, Eastern offers students a strong liberal arts foundation grounded in various applied learning opportunities. Ranked among the top 25 public institutions in the North by U.S. News & World Report in its 2024-25 Best Colleges ratings, Eastern has also been awarded ‘Green Campus’ status by the Princeton Review 15 years in a row. For more information, visit www.easternct.edu.
PARSIPPANY — Hofstra University has announced that Adrianna DiDomenico, a 2024 Graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, has been named to the Spring 2025 Dean’s List for her outstanding academic achievement. DiDomenico, majoring in Linguistics, earned a grade point average of at least 3.5 during the semester to qualify for this honor.
Hofstra University is dedicated to providing a high-quality education in an environment that fosters learning, collaboration, and personal growth. With small class sizes, committed faculty, and access to the resources of nearby New York City, Hofstra offers students the tools and support to achieve academic and professional success.
Corporal Erica Valvano, Sheriff James Gannon, Warden Christopher Klein
MORRIS COUNTY — Scouting America, Patriots’ Path Council honored two Morris County Sheriff’s Office officers and other local citizens at the annual Morris County Lifetime Achievement Awards Dinner on Wednesday, June 18, in East Hanover.
Among this year’s Lifetime Achievement award honorees are Warden Christopher Klein of the Morris County Correctional Facility and Corporal Erica Valvano of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach and Planning Section’s Hope One team. The event was chaired by Jack Ambrose, a past Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Chief Warrant Officer, and Chief of the Patrol Division for Morris County’s Sheriff’s Office.
This event recognized outstanding citizens for their community service, as evidenced by their leadership and interests within the Morris County community, and for embodying the values of the century-old Scout Oath and Law in their personal and professional lives. Morris County is part of the Scouting America Patriots’ Path Council, along with the counties of Middlesex, Morris, Somerset, and Sussex. In the council, over 5,000 adult volunteers deliver the values of Scouting to over 12,000 Scouts. The program provided the following biographies.
Warden Christopher Klein began his career with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office/ Bureau of Corrections in September of 1999 as an Officer. Warden Klein worked in various areas of the Correctional Facility, including the Intake/Processing Unit and the Policy and Procedures Unit. In 2007, Warden Klein was promoted to the rank of Sergeant, where he managed the Policy and Procedures Unit, the New Jersey Department of Corrections State Inspection, and Accreditation through the American Correctional Association. In 2012, Warden Klein was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and was assigned the role of Administrative Lieutenant. As the Administrative Lieutenant, he managed the Training Unit, Fire Safety Unit, Medical Unit, Policy and Procedures Unit, and Quartermaster Unit. He has overseen the New Jersey Department of Corrections State Inspection and the Accreditation Department, where the Morris County Correctional Facility received its 4th accreditation from the American Correctional Association. In August of 2013, Warden Klein was promoted to his current position of Warden for the Morris County Correctional Facility. As Warden, he is responsible for the daily oversight of over 180 sworn and non-sworn members of the Bureau’s three divisions: Administrative Division, Support Services Division, and Security Division.
Corporal Erica Valvano is a motivated law enforcement professional with over 21 years of experience dedicated to maintaining her agency’s high level of professionalism by improving relationships with the community and developing innovative ways to address community issues. She found her passion for a career in law enforcement as a Boy Scouts of America Police Explorer sponsored by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. She continues to serve as the lead advisor with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Post youth program. Her career began in the Protective Services Division, where she was assigned to access control and later prisoner transportation. In 2010, Corporal Valvano was transferred to the Community Outreach and Planning Section to cover details of community services. The Project Lifesaver Program, CALEA, Crime Stoppers, and the development of policies and procedures. On April 3, 2017, Corporal Valvano assisted with launching the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Hope One mobile outreach vehicle for addiction, recovery, and mental health services. In October 2018, she applied for and received a Bureau of Justice grant to expand the Hope One Project with the launch of the Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative (PAARI). The Hope One Project received the 2019 IACP Michael Shanahan Leadership in Public/ Private Cooperation Award. In 2019, Corporal Valvano was honored to receive the “Community Impact Award” from New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement. She has assisted nine counties in replicating Hope One throughout New Jersey. These law enforcement diversion programs reflect her passion to help people in the community.
Sheriff James M. Gannon and Alan Robinson, Undersheriff for the Bureau of Corrections, recognized Warden Klein and Corporal Valvano. Sheriff Gannon said, “Warden Klein and Corporal Valvano are exceptional Morris County Sheriff’s Office representatives. Chris has professionalism and a demeanor perfect for running the best County Jail in the State. Erica has impacted many and made a difference in more lives than anyone I know. I am so proud of them and their work as officers of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.”
Ferring Pharmaceuticals’ newly approved U.S. Operations Center at 100 Interpace Parkway in Parsippany expands local manufacturing, creates new opportunities for pharmaceutical professionals, and reinforces Ferring’s commitment to supporting the community.
PARSIPPANY — Ferring Pharmaceutical, a global life sciences company focused on reproductive medicine, uro-oncology, orthopaedics, and gastroenterology—including microbiome therapeutics—held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new 12,000-square-foot gene therapy manufacturing facility at its U.S. headquarters in Parsippany.
The new facility is dedicated to producing ADSTILADRIN, the first and only FDA-approved gene therapy administered directly to the bladder for the treatment of high-risk, non–muscle–invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). This therapy is intended for patients who no longer respond to Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG).
Unlike traditional gene therapies that are often single-dose treatments, ADSTILADRIN is delivered via catheter every three months. Bipin Dalmia, Senior Vice President and Global Head of the Uro-Oncology Franchise at Ferring, noted that the goal is to manage high-risk bladder cancer as a chronic disease. Cancer-free patients may continue receiving the therapy for three to five years. The drug’s Phase 3 clinical trials lasted five years.
Under Ferring’s global production strategy, the drug substance will be manufactured in Finland, while the Parsippany facility will serve as the worldwide hub for producing the final dosage form.
Although the cost of the Parsippany facility was not disclosed, Dalmia shared that Ferring has invested over $1 billion in ADSTILADRIN over the past decade, including nearly $500 million in manufacturing infrastructure.
“Our strategy is threefold,” Dalmia explained. “First, we’re preparing for global demand by ensuring sufficient capacity. Second, we’re managing risk by diversifying our manufacturing footprint with dual sources for both drug substance and product. And third, we aim to control costs that are typically high for gene therapies.”
ADSTILADRIN received FDA approval for patient use in December 2022, and the Parsippany plant was approved for production in April 2025. Regulatory filings for the therapy are underway in the European Union, Canada, and Israel, with additional submissions planned for four more countries this year. A Phase 3 trial is currently ongoing in Japan.
Currently, ADSTILADRIN is the only gene therapy produced at the Parsippany site, but Dalmia indicated the facility could support multiple products in the future.
The new facility currently employs 23 people, with plans to expand to 67. Ferring’s Parsippany headquarters, which opened in 2014 on a 25-acre campus, employs approximately 600 full-time and 200 contingent workers.
Ferring’s global headquarters are located in St. Prex, Switzerland. The company employs over 6,000 people worldwide and serves millions of patients in over 100 countries.
The proud Pre-K graduates included Kiaan Kadakia, Zaila Ryans, Raymond Mound, Kaira Patel, Manuel Cougil, Jr., Auat Adnan, Arjun Gindal, Abir Malgaonkar, and Atharv Jhakur.
PARSIPPANY — The Goddard School celebrated its Annual Pre-K Graduation on Friday, June 20, at its campus at 311 Smith Road. The ceremony marked a significant milestone for nine students who completed their Pre-K program and are preparing to begin Kindergarten in September. The graduates included Kiaan Kadakia, Zaila Ryans, Raymond Mound, Kaira Patel, Manuel Cougil, Jr., Auat Adnan, Arjun Gindal, Abir Malgaonkar, and Atharv Jhakur.
After the flag salute, the graduates performed a selection of songs, including “Moving Up to Kindergarten,” “Boom Chicka Boom,” “On My Way,” and “Big Dreams,” before receiving their diplomas.
Pre-K Graduation: “Reach for the Stars.” Graduates included Kiaan Kadakia, Zaila Ryans, Raymond Mound, Kaira Patel, Manuel Cougil, Jr., Auat Adnan, Arjun Gindal, Abir Malgaonkar, and Atharv Jhakur as they celebrated their milestone with pride and excitement for the journey ahead.And the best part of the celebration. The celebration cake for the Class of 2025 Graduates.
The Goddard School in Parsippany is a private preschool offering early childhood education programs for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and pre-kindergarten students. Known for its play-based learning approach, the school blends academic instruction with social and emotional development, creating a well-rounded foundation for lifelong learning.
The curriculum incorporates various subjects, including math, science, literacy, and the arts, all designed to stimulate young minds and instill a passion for discovery. Enrichment programs in physical fitness, music, and foreign languages enhance the educational experience.
The school prides itself on maintaining a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children are encouraged to thrive. Experienced and caring teachers provide personalized support, helping each child grow independently.
Parents value the school’s strong emphasis on communication and collaboration, which fosters a true partnership between families and educators. Throughout the year, the Goddard School organizes various events, with the Pre-K graduation serving as a joyful highlight—celebrating each child’s achievements as they prepare for the next exciting chapter in their educational journey.
Pre-Kindergarten Ceremony ProgramThe graduates’ “Certificate of Achievement”
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus magazine, July 2024. Click here to read the magazine.
New Jersey lawmakers are moving ahead with bills to shut down sweepstakes casinos operating in the state. This represents a significant change in how Garden State has handled this fast-growing gaming sector. The proposed laws could completely reshape online gaming for residents.
Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese introduced Assembly Bill 5447, which would ban platforms that use virtual currency and give out cash prizes and create fresh penalties for unlawful gambling businesses. The bill sat without action for nearly eight weeks before it was unanimously approved by the Assembly’s Tourism, Gaming, and Arts Committee. The Division of Consumer Affairs and Gaming Enforcement would oversee compliance.
The sweepstakes casino business has grown tremendously across America. The market made around $3.1 billion in 2022. Experts think it will jump 31% annually and hit $6.9 billion by 2025. These sites let people play casino games with fake money instead of real cash. This lets them operate in states where traditional online gambling remains illegal.
Players who cannot access regular online casinos in their areas often look for other options. Some check out cryptocasino platforms that work with cryptocurrency transactions. These provide a different path for online gaming fans who want varied experiences outside the regulated market.
Stephan Finkel is the director of legislative affairs for the Attorney General’s office. He says New Jersey’s constitution requires voters to approve gambling activities. Since sweepstakes casino gaming never got voter approval through a referendum, he thinks it should be unconstitutional. Finkel also pointed out that these platforms are built to look different from what they are, which makes them unauthorized gambling operations.
The proposed laws specifically target the business model that sweepstakes casinos depend on. These platforms usually run two games simultaneously. One involves paid virtual coins with no cash payout, and the other uses sweepstakes coins that players can turn in for real prizes. The New Jersey bill would stop this dual-currency system by banning the purchase of coins or tokens that only allow sweepstakes entry.
The bills would also prevent sweepstakes winners from being picked based on sports events or contests. This would target platforms that mix sweepstakes mechanics with sports betting elements. This rule aims to close what lawmakers see as regulatory gaps that let operators circumvent existing gambling laws.
Industry representatives have had different reactions to these legislative developments. The Social and Promotional Games Association supported earlier regulatory efforts. They said clear regulations would help create transparent and responsible social gaming experiences. However, switching from regulation to prohibition has created uncertainty for operators serving New Jersey customers.
Governor Murphy formed New Jersey’s Responsible Gambling Task Force. The group recommended supporting legislative efforts to ban unregulated gambling, including sweepstakes casinos. The task force examined both regulated and unregulated gaming in the state. Their findings could strengthen the ban legislation.
The regulatory crackdown goes beyond New Jersey. New York has also moved to ban social casino sweepstakes models. The State Senate passed legislation prohibiting online sweepstakes games using dual-currency systems. This year, multiple states, including Connecticut, Louisiana, and Montana, have introduced similar prohibition bills.
Eric Scheffler from the Sports Betting Alliance said sweepstakes gaming represents a legal trick that lets operators copy online casino experiences while avoiding licensing, regulation, and taxation structures that state policymakers set up. He noted that without regulation, these platforms do not have to follow the advertising restrictions and responsible gambling measures that traditional operators must.
The timing of New Jersey’s legislative action matters because the state leads in regulated online gambling. New Jersey was one of the first states to legalize online casino gaming and brought substantial tax revenue from its regulated iGaming market. The proposed sweepstakes ban could protect this established regulatory framework from unregulated competition.
A separate bill, Senate Bill 4109, takes a different approach. It proposes to regulate sweepstakes casinos as internet gaming operators, requiring licensure and taxation within the existing framework. This alternative shows the ongoing debate about banning or regulating these platforms.
New Jersey’s decision on these bills will probably affect what other states do about sweepstakes casinos. Some states have already killed similar bills this year, but others are still working on them. How this turns out will shape the sweepstakes industry’s future.
If Bill 5447 passes, sweepstakes companies might leave New Jersey like they did in other states with bans. New Jersey wants tight control over gambling in the state, no matter how companies try to package it.
