PARSIPPANY — Building Materials Manufacturing, based in Parsippany, has been added to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s (NJDOL) Workplace Accountability in Labor List (The WALL), effectively barring the company from obtaining any government contracts until it resolves outstanding tax liabilities.
According to a recent announcement by NJDOL, Building Materials Manufacturing owes $71,724.10 in unpaid liabilities under the New Jersey Gross Income Tax Act. The company was among eight newly added businesses this month to The WALL, a public list of employers prohibited from receiving state, county, or local contracts due to unresolved wage, benefit, or tax violations.
The WALL was established in 2020 through bipartisan legislation as part of the state’s initiative to combat wage theft, worker misclassification, and noncompliance with labor laws. Now in its second year, the program has listed 280 businesses that collectively owe more than $26 million.
“The WALL is a powerful enforcement tool that enables the department to publicly name companies that shortchange their workers and skip required contributions to programs such as unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation,” NJDOL stated.
Before a business is added to the list, it receives a warning and is granted a 20-day window to resolve any outstanding issues. Since its launch in September 2023, NJDOL has recovered over $650,000 from employers either placed on or warned about being listed on The WALL.
The WALL’s revamped online platform allows users to search for businesses by name, location, and listing date. The list is publicly available at nj.gov/labor/wall. State procurement officials are required to check The WALL, along with other accountability measures, before awarding any public contracts.
Building Materials Manufacturing LLC has now joined the ranks of businesses barred from performing public-sector work until their debts to the state are paid in full.
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce "Juice Up Your Morning"
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce will host its next Juice Up Your Morning Networking Event on Tuesday, July 22, at 8:30 a.m. at the Chamber’s office, located at 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 322.
Designed to foster meaningful business connections in a face-to-face setting, the event is open to professionals seeking to expand their network, promote their business, and engage with other local entrepreneurs. Known for its focused and effective format, Juice Up Your Morning is 100% networking.
Each month, the event features a “host spotlight,” offering one Chamber member a ten-minute segment to present their business. Additionally, every attendee is given a one-minute opportunity to introduce themselves and their services to the group.
“The goal is to support the development of professional networks and increase visibility for local businesses,” said Frank Cahill, Executive Board Member. “It’s a simple and productive way to connect with fellow professionals and share what you do.”
Registration is required, and attendees are encouraged to bring plenty of business cards. For more information or to register, visit www.parsippanychamber.org or call (973) 402-6400.
Councilman Justin Musella, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., and Councilman Matt McGrath
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – July 8, 2025.
Alison Cai and Prisha Bakshi at their virtual internships for Miriam's Heart and the Association of NJ Environmental respectively.
PARSIPPANY — Many high school students find themselves adrift by the time they exit their thirteenth year of mandated education. School can prepare you for a multitude of things—cramming the stages of DNA replication for some, or learning how to show up punctually enough times to avoid detention for others—but there is one experience that school fundamentally cannot prepare its students for: life without it.
It’s no secret that many students struggle with adjusting to their new post-graduate lifestyles. Leaving high school for a specialized career path, especially after orienting one’s entire life around strict bell schedules and stable online gradebooks, is hard. Bridging that transformative gap may be arguably harder. Still, for the past four years, high schools on both sides of Parsippany have been taking a different approach to prepare their students for life after graduation.
During the last five or six weeks of high school, seniors at Parsippany Hills High School and Parsippany High School have the opportunity to opt out of the standard education curriculum following the completion of their AP exams, instead participating in a regulated student internship experience under the guidance of an assigned local mentor. Internships may follow an on-site, hybrid, or virtual model, depending on the mentor’s availability and schedule, and require students to complete at least 80 to 90 hours of work experience over five to six weeks to remain in the program.
Shyanne Liu, salutatorian of the Parsippany Hills High School Class of 2025 and incoming freshman at Emory University, is at her internship at Greenhill Pharmacy.
The alternative provides an engaging and refreshing opportunity for students seeking interactive work experience. Seniors can assess whether the career path they hope to pursue holds substantial value for them and gain insight into the working lives they may soon lead in a few years. As the internship program operates on a first-come, first-served basis, all students who meet the attendance and disciplinary requirements are eligible to secure a spot, provided they are quick enough to find a mentor willing to take them under their wing.
This spring, the internship program has been more popular than ever, filling an unprecedented maximum of over one hundred spots across both high schools in Parsippany. The program, which was initially experimental and only open to a small group of students when it launched, has since grown exponentially, with word spreading swiftly through the grapevine among both students and local businesses.
This rapid growth has been spearheaded mainly by Parsippany business teachers Chrissy Russell and Elizabeth O’Boyle, both of whom kickstarted the program just one short year after the pandemic shut down thousands of businesses and activities across the state. “When Chrissy Russell and I launched the Senior Internship Program four years ago,” O’Boyle tells the Parsippany Focus, “we envisioned the positive impact it would have on our students’ futures. Thanks to the strong support from the PTHSD administration and the incredible response of local businesses, that vision has become a reality.”
O’Boyle adds that “over two hundred seniors” were mentored this spring in a variety of fields, including business, STEM, the arts, trades, education, and more.” These include internships in a variety of settings, ranging from hospitals to law firms, to media agencies, to public schools, and even the Parsippany Focus itself.
Aryan Masaldan, a recent graduate of Parsippany Hills High School and incoming freshman at Johns Hopkins University, is in his biomedical engineering internship at 3D Pets in Bloomingdale.
Aryan Masaldan, a recent graduate of the Parsippany Hills High School Class of 2025, was one of the over two hundred student interns this spring, and arguably, the intern with the furthest drive to work to and from. For his last five weekdays of school, Masaldan spent his time at the intersection of prosthetics and paw prints—3D Pets, a prosthetic device manufacturer for disabled animals based in Bloomingdale.
Masaldan, like many of the senior interns this spring, feels satisfied with his experience: “I’ve had such an incredible time, and I feel like I was able to get some real working experience to support my career goals,” Masaldan tells the Focus.
An incoming biomedical engineering student at Johns Hopkins University, Masaldan has found that “interning under 3D Pets has prepared [him] well for university and beyond,” and he feels “grateful to have had the experience and make a difference in the lives of some cute animals” as well.
Students from the other side of town also confirmed this sentiment.
Nikoloz Inashvili, a recent graduate of the Parsippany High School Class of 2025, found similar fulfillment in his internship experience. “The senior internship program allowed me to experience the career I aspire to have, truly,” Inashvili expresses. Inashvili, who will be attending Princeton University in the fall, says, “I was able to confirm my love for the law field, and I feel more confident about pursuing my studies in a subject area I was once uncertain about. I got to experience firsthand what it’s like to work in a law office, which is something other high school students—and some college students—don’t even have the chance to do.”
Nikoloz Inashvili, a Parsippany High School Class of 2025 graduate, reflects on the value of his senior internship experience, which affirmed his passion for law and helped solidify his decision to pursue legal studies at Princeton University this fall.
It’s no surprise, then, that many students, including Inashvili and Masaldan, have echoed the internship’s help in guiding and confirming their prospective career choices. Even students who didn’t have the opportunity to attend their internships physically, such as Parsippany Hills High School graduate Alison Cai, took something meaningful away from the experience. “Although I had a virtual internship where I was not required to be on the site of my organization, my mentor was great at communication and scheduled weekly check-ups where we could reflect on my experience,” Cai reflects. Throughout her internship—half of which she was required to do in the school library—she was forced to learn “how to not feel out of place despite being in a Zoom call with many experts,” including marketing professionals and even a New Jersey gubernatorial candidate. “Overall, I learned many skills applicable to both college and later in the future, ranging from setting my schedules to finding deadlines to follow,” Cai concludes. “At the end of the day, it was super fun and informative!”
Moving forward, senior internship directors Chrissy Russell and Elizabeth O’Boyle hope to pilot a full-year senior internship program as early as the next school year, allowing students to pursue their desired career paths while navigating their pivotal final year of high school. As the outgoing senior class prepares to embark on a new journey and the incoming senior class prepares to conclude an old one, Russell reflects on how the program has evolved since its inception in 2021. “It’s been truly inspiring to witness just how much the Senior Internship Program has positively affected so many of our Parsippany students,” Russell says. “As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue building and expanding the program, so even more Parsippany seniors can take advantage of these incredible, real-world learning opportunities. Our goal is to make this experience accessible to as many students as possible,” Russell proclaims, “and we’re confident that with continued community support—we can do just that.”
Parsippany Focus Intern, Raymond Trunk, the author of this article, also wanted to reflect on his own experience. The senior internship program, which officially concluded a little under a month ago, has been incredibly impactful and enriching for tons of my classmates—myself very much included. Without the vision of Mrs. Chrissy Russell and Mrs. Elizabeth O’Boyle and the support of the Board of Education, I wouldn’t have had the platform to write articles for the Parsippany Focus to begin with, let alone experience various community events and conduct interviews with a broad range of local leaders under the guidance of the Parsippany Focus’s editor-in-chief, Frank Cahill. I am incredibly grateful to anyone who has contributed their time and effort to bettering my articles, and I am thrilled to continue writing articles for the Parsippany Focus during the summer and beyond. Thank you so much for reading!
Raymond Trunk at my internship for Parsippany Focus with Frank Cahill. Parsippany High School interns Denys Ruchkin and Ashton Morey stand with Matthew O’Leary and other team members at A3 Digital Media.
From Parsippany to Denmark—Cassandra Cogan’s academic journey blooms with success.
PARSIPPANY — Cassandra Cogan, a distinguished alumna of Parsippany High School (Class of 2019) and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Class of 2023), recently defended her Master’s Thesis at Roskilde University in Denmark. This concluded her participation in the “European Master’s in Global Studies” (EMGS) program, which she began in 2023. Cassandra secured a fully funded Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) scholarship, which is financed by the European Union and awarded annually to the most competitive and gifted students worldwide. Cassandra was one of only two Americans in her cohort, alongside peers from Germany, Bangladesh, Lebanon, Azerbaijan, and many other countries around the globe.
Cassandra began the EMGS program at Wrocław University in Poland, where she took specialized courses in international security and gender studies. She then moved to Denmark, where she has spent her second and final program year at Roskilde University, conducting research and taking specialized courses in discourse analysis. Her Master’s Thesis investigated the construction of gendered narratives of violence and security in scripted television, examining how these narratives reflect hegemonic discourses on gender and politics in global security. Cassandra earned top marks for her thesis and defense at Roskilde University. Her research has already been accepted for participation and presentation at the “Popular Culture and World Politics” Conference, taking place this upcoming November in Lisbon, Portugal, which focuses on the intersection between political violence and popular culture.
Cassandra finished her studies in June of this year, completing her “European Master’s in Global Studies” degree, as well as an additional “Master of Science in Social Sciences” degree from Roskilde University. She plans to remain abroad and aspires to pursue a PhD related to her research interests shortly.
ChatGPT said:
A happy pup soaks up the love during a belly rub session—tail wags guaranteed!
MORRIS COUNTY — Eleventh Hour Rescue (EHR), a Morris County-based no-kill dog and cat rescue, has once again been selected as one of a select few tri-state area shelters to host a live, on-site fundraising event in partnership with national nonprofit Jordan’s Way. The high-energy event will be broadcast live on Facebook on Saturday, July 12, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at EHR’s Roxbury Mall Adoption Center.
In 2023, EHR raised over $50,000 in a single evening through this very fundraiser—and they’re aiming even higher this year.
Founded by New Jersey native Kris Rotonda in memory of his beloved rescue dog Jordan, Jordan’s Way has traveled to over 300 shelters across all 50 states, raising more than $12 million for animal rescues through interactive livestreams. A recent event in Wisconsin raised $137,000—an amount EHR hopes to surpass to lead the 50-State Tour and earn a bonus $25,000 for their animals.
During the three-hour livestream on www.Facebook.com/EleventhHourRescue, Rotonda will spotlight many of EHR’s long-term, senior, and special needs pets available for adoption. Volunteers and guests will take part in a variety of fun and spontaneous challenges to drive donations—from ice bucket and pie-in-the-face antics to sit-up contests, physical challenges, and “bail-out” games involving time in the puppy pen.
The evening promises excitement and surprise with the core question being: What are people willing to do to help the animals—and what will others pay to see it?
Supporters can participate by watching, sharing, and—most importantly—donating during the livestream. Local businesses are encouraged to commit to donation matches and may appear live on-air for special recognition. Community influencers are also invited to sign up for a half-hour “guest spot” to engage their followers in real time while participating in activities on camera.
“We’re thrilled to be chosen again—this event shines a spotlight on our long-term cats and dogs in a way that’s both meaningful and fun,” said Kennel Manager Alex Galdi. “Our Enrichment Coordinator, Nicole, and I have already committed to spending the night in a dog run if we hit $50,000. If we reach $75,000, some of our team members may even get tattoos!”
Expect surprise appearances, ice buckets, hair dye, head shaves, and plenty of laughs as the community rallies behind a cause that saves lives.
PARSIPPANY — The 8th Annual Layups 4 Life 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament is set to take place on Saturday, September 20, at the Parsippany PAL, located at 33 Baldwin Road. This inspiring event invites adult players of all skill levels to “take the courts in the fight against cancer,” with proceeds directly benefiting Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Participants must be 18 or older and may register as a team of 3 or 4 players. Coed teams are welcome, and all teams are guaranteed to play at least three games. The tournament begins with check-in at 10:00 a.m. and promises a day of spirited competition and community engagement for a meaningful cause.
The registration deadline is September 14, and spots are limited. Those interested can register by clicking here or by clicking here. For additional questions, contact [email protected].
Layups 4 Life is a nonprofit organization committed to raising funds and awareness for cancer research through sport and community involvement.
Join the movement, take your shot, and help make a difference in the fight against cancer.
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 — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills has officially opened registration for its popular Men’s Softball League, set to begin on Tuesday, September 2 and run through Thursday, October 30, 2025.
Games will take place every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., offering local athletes an exciting opportunity to enjoy competitive recreation under the lights this fall season.
Organized by the Parsippany Recreation Department, the league is open to individual players and full teams. Interested participants can register online by visiting www.pthreconline.com. Teams interested in registering should email the department directly at [email protected].
“This is always a great season filled with camaraderie, competition, and community spirit,” said a Recreation Department spokesperson. “Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to get back on the field, there’s a place for you in this league.”
Those with questions are encouraged to contact Justin at 973-944-8336 for more information.
Don’t miss out on the action—gather your teammates, dust off your glove, and get ready for a great season of fall softball in Parsippany!
The phenomenon of an “ignorant popular sovereignty” has seized the Republic, due to a political system that does not address real issues of a life possible in a real democracy of a “we the people” invested in a true common good. The recently passed “Big Beautiful Bill”, is a blueprint of the demise of government as intended, as a entity of evolving betterment for all. Instead, we have a “degeneration” into a financial corporate class of rulers’ alienation from the economic realities of wealth imbalance they have created for the rest of us. Corporate finance has infiltrated its way into US Politics to the degree that any hope of a common good or wholesomeness in caring for all peoples, and the very world of nature that sustains us, is a fantasy. The rejection of science, humanity, and common sense required for the times has been rejected, for Great Again. We are about to be Privatized by Project 2025, the Great Again.
Here are some pre-election news media. Donald Trump openly denies he was involved with the Project 2025 Neoliberal Corporate takeover planned by the Project 2025 behind his rise to power.
NPR August 2024 “They’ve been told officially, legally, in every way, that we have nothing to do with Project 25,” Trump said. “They know it, but they bring it up anyway. They bring up every single thing that you can bring up. Every one of them was false.” Despite Trump’s repeated distancing from the plan, many of its writers and architects worked in the Trump administration and would likely be on the shortlist for appointees in a second Trump term.
September 2024: Former President Donald Trump denied any connection to Project 2025, the handbook for a new conservative government written by the Heritage Foundation and several right-wing think tanks, in his Sept. 10 debate with Vice President Kamala Harris. “I have nothing to do with Project 2025,” Trump said in the ABC News Presidential Debate. “I haven’t read it. I don’t want to read it purposely. I’m not going to read it.”
Trump then, after one so-called debate, stated he would not debate again. “Who Needs to debate?” Let’s party—Trump Dances To ‘YMCA’ At His Campaign Rallies.
Here is the dupe we shall suffer now that Project 2025 is in play, thanks to lies, deceit, and intimidation, all with the help of corporate media and a corrupted corporate Supreme Court. Project 2025 represents a private corporate interest, superseding the public interest. A world turned upside down—a metaphorical return to a plantation model master-slave paradigm of constitutional originalism.
Over time in Western Society, the function of government grew toward an “adulthood” in which the “general welfare” of the community became its responsibility, behavior against a common good was monitored and prevented, particularly to ensure weaker members of society are protected.
“We do not have a choice between an ‘honest’ privatisation and a ‘dishonest’ one, because an honest privatisation means clear rules imposed by a strong state that can enforce its laws.
Ideas of small government are not in keeping with the times and circumstances we face, as a people and a Planet in these times..We need good government now more than ever as the means are proper.
A huge part of the problem is the Jeffersonian notion that” the government that governs best is the one that governs least”. While it is true regarding individual liberties, it is absolutely dangerous to think that way regarding the economy…
Trump’s supporters bringing the Project 2025 into existence amounts to the end of the republic, as the money power has replaced the reverence for life itself. In this, both political parties are guilty of disregarding the pursuit of a common good beyond market values, which benefits few at the expense of many.
What does the 2025 Musk, Trump, and this gangster administration mean by “efficiency” in reducing and destroying government? It is the efficiency that mocks the whole, the common good, as government is intended. The waste and inefficiency however lies in the billionaires, who hoard money rather than use it as a public utility, while they in debt us, as they rape the tax base.
At the very least, local republicans should separate themselves from MAGA Trump so-called republicans.
All programs scheduled at the Lake Hiawatha Branch Library for July have been canceled or postponed.
PARSIPPANY — In response to the recent extreme heat and to ensure the safety and comfort of both patrons and staff, the Lake Hiawatha Branch Library is temporarily closed. This closure allows preparations to begin for the installation of a new air conditioning system, as the current unit is no longer functional and has resulted in unsafe indoor temperatures.
Library and Township officials are working diligently to resolve the issue as quickly and efficiently as possible. A new AC unit has been ordered and will be installed to restore a safe and welcoming environment. If feasible, the library may reopen during the installation under limited, safe conditions. The branch is expected to reopen with limited hours on July 14, 2025.
All programs scheduled at the Lake Hiawatha Branch Library for July have been canceled or postponed. During the closure, patrons are encouraged to visit:
Parsippany Main Library, 449 Halsey Road
Mount Tabor Branch Library, 31 Trinity Place, Mount Tabor
Wieland Metal Services Signs Long-Term Renewal in Parsippany
PARSIPPANY — Wieland Metal Services, a division of AJ Oster LLC, a global operator and leading distributor of metal products, has renewed its lease for more than 85,000 square feet at 150 Lackawanna Avenue, brokers with CBRE announced in a press release.
The facility, totaling 85,100 square feet, serves as Wieland’s base of operations for the Northeast region. The long-term lease renewal ensures the company will continue to occupy the entire industrial building, which is owned by FAO Realty LLC.
According to CBRE, the property offers one of the most comprehensive selections of metal products in the industry.
The Saddle Brook-based CBRE team of Thomas Mallaney and Denise Kokulak represented Wieland in the transaction. Scott Perkins of NAI James E. Hanson represented the landlord. The 51-year-old building is strategically located within a 30-minute drive of Newark Liberty International Airport and Port Newark-Elizabeth.
“We worked closely with our colleagues from CBRE’s suburban Chicago office and reviewed several space options in the market that would fit our client’s specific requirements,” said Mallaney. “After a targeted analysis, Wieland elected to remain at 150 Lackawanna for a long-term leasehold and improve the existing space to better facilitate their occupancy.”
PARSIPPANY — Caldwell University senior bowler Lauren Marks has been named to the 2024-25 Academic All-America® Women’s Division II At-Large First Team as selected by College Sports Communicators (CSC), the organization announced today. Marks, a two-time CACC Bowler of the Year and NCTA Honorable Mention All-America, is a two-time Academic All-American, having earned Third Team honors in the 2024-25 season.
Marks was selected as one of 15 First Team selections nationwide in the At-Large category, which encompasses sports such as bowling, lacrosse, field hockey, skiing, crew/rowing, golf, beach volleyball, water polo, rifle, gymnastics, and others that do not have their own separate CSC Academic All-America category. Marks is the only bowler on the First Team and one of only two bowlers among the 45 combined Division II honorees among all three teams.
“We are extremely proud of Lauren’s accomplishments over the past four years at Caldwell University,” said Mark A. Corino, Caldwell University Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics. “She has raised the bar on both the academic and athletic side for not only our bowling program but for the entire department and the University. This honor is well-deserved, and we couldn’t be happier for her success.”
Marks, a Fine Arts major with a 3.95 GPA, was an All-CACC First team performer, three-time CACC All-Academic, and CSC Third Team Academic All-America performer in her senior season in 2024-25. She led the CACC individual scoring average (20.375 pins/frame overall, 20.189 in Baker, 20.632 in Traditional), almost a full pin more than the next competitor, frame fill percentage (86.5%), strike percentage (50.6%), spare percentage (92.2%) and pretty much every statistical category the league publishes.
In 2023-24, she earned the NTCA Strike Percentage Leader Award for Division II, achieving a 48.30% rate, and was a member of the organization’s All-Academic Team. She was also the CACC Student-Athlete of the Month for March 2024.
Marks is Caldwell’s 15th Academic All-American and first to earn First Team honors since softball standout Sydney Ponto and women’s basketball star Kristen Drogsler both earned the top distinction in 2017.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe officially opens its doors at 804 U.S. Route 46 in Parsippany, inviting the community to enjoy fresh smoothies and wholesome meals in a vibrant setting.
PARSIPPANY — Tropical Smoothie Cafe is now open in Parsippany. The community is invited to stop by during the soft opening starting on Tuesday, July 8, and enjoy a wide selection of smoothies, wraps, sandwiches, flatbreads, and more. The cafe offers a welcoming environment for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
The team at Tropical Smoothie Cafe is all smiles and ready to serve guests with friendly service and delicious offerings during the soft opening.
Location: 804 U.S. Route 46, Parsippany, (next to ShopRite) Phone: (908) 643-6815 Order Online:Click here
Available amenities and services include:
Online Ordering
Breakfast
Kids Menu
Free Wi-Fi
Delivery
In-Store Pickup
Hours of Operation:
Monday to Friday: 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
A Grand Opening Celebration is planned for the weekend of July 25–27. Additional details will be announced in the coming days.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe is excited to join the Parsippany community and looks forward to serving both residents and visitors.
Local band Overboard energizes the crowd with a lively performance during Parsippany’s annual Independence Day celebration at Parsippany Hills High School.
PARSIPPANY — Under a sky lit with fireworks and filled with patriotic spirit, more than 10,000 residents gathered at Parsippany Hills High School on a beautiful summer evening for the Township’s highly anticipated annual concert and fireworks celebration. The festive event brought together families, friends, and neighbors for an unforgettable night of music, memories, and community pride.
The celebration began as residents filled the fields with lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and coolers, ready to enjoy a night of entertainment. Food vendors lined the perimeter, offering a diverse range of options from classic American fare to refreshing treats, while children played and community groups distributed giveaways and information about local programs.
Kicking off the night’s entertainment was a high-energy performance by local favorite Overboard, whose vibrant set list featured crowd-pleasing hits that had attendees singing and dancing along. Their engaging stage presence and mix of rock and pop anthems set the tone for an evening filled with laughter and celebration.
Throughout the event, attendees were reminded of the true meaning of Independence Day.
Many paused to reflect on the courage and sacrifices of the men and women in the armed forces who protect our freedoms every day. Patriotic decorations and American flags waved proudly as families gathered under the stars to share in a collective appreciation of the nation’s history.
The Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Department shared information, answered questions, and gave residents a glimpse into what it’s like to be part of the RLVFC family.
Whether attendees were curious about volunteering, had questions about fire safety, or just wanted to meet their local firefighters, the team was happy to connect.
As darkness fell, the much-anticipated fireworks display began. The Parsippany sky erupted into a dazzling array of color and light, drawing cheers and applause from the crowd. Set to a soundtrack of patriotic music, the grand finale was a powerful conclusion to a night that celebrated unity, freedom, and community spirit.
The celebration was filled with smiling faces as children danced, families posed for photos, and neighbors reconnected. The fields surrounding Parsippany Hills High School buzzed with laughter, conversation, and the joyful sounds of summer. From food trucks to glow sticks, the event offered something for everyone, creating lasting memories under the stars.
The Township extends its heartfelt thanks to all who attended and made the evening such a success. Special appreciation goes to the dedicated staff, volunteers, police officers, firefighters, and first responders who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Fireworks light up the sky above Parsippany Hills High School, marking the grand finale of the Township’s annual Independence Day celebration.
Det. Captain Micheal Turkot, Chief Warrant Officer Jack Ambrose, Undersheriff Richard Rose, Chief Sheriff’s Officer Aaron Tomasini, Sheriff James Gannon, Undersheriff Mark Spitzer and Det. Captain Walter Rawa.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon officially swore in Chief Sheriff’s Officer Aaron D. Tomasini to lead the bureau of law enforcement during a ceremony held in the commissioners’ public meeting room at the Morris County Administration and Records Building, where officials, law enforcement colleagues, family and friends gathered to honor his distinguished career and leadership.
“The county of Morris is fortunate to have a leader like Aaron, whose integrity, expertise and leadership skills are certain to propel the Morris County Sheriff’s Office to new heights. His role as Chief Sheriff’s Officer will undoubtedly enhance community relations and promote a safer environment for all residents and the Sheriff’s Office,” said Sheriff Gannon.
Chief Tomasini began his law enforcement career with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in July 2005 after graduating from the Morris County Basic Police Academy, Class #66. He was initially assigned to the Protective Services Division before transferring to the K-9 Unit, where he spent the majority of his career.
Chief Sheriff’s Officer Aaron D. Tomasini
Within the special services division, Chief Tomasini served as a K-9 handler and trainer, bomb technician, and tactical operator with the Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team. Over the years, he worked with several K-9 partners, including Jax, Hydro, Sig, Kiara, and Po. He has also served with the New Jersey State Police’s Detect and Render Safe Task Force, where he has worked as both an explosives detection specialist and a bomb technician.
In addition to his tactical and training experience, Chief Tomasini has supervised units across the agency, including crime scene investigation, patrol, the newly formed emergency services unit and the marine police unit.
“One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that words mean little without action. When I think about the kind of chief I’d want, it’s someone who has my back. Someone who supports me, who empowers me, who sees and hears me, and who invests in my development because I matter. With that in mind, I pledge my full support to you; my time, my energy, and my focus, to meet your expectations and help you thrive,” said Chief Tomasini, who addressed attendees following the oath of office.
“To my fellow chiefs, law enforcement partners, and community stakeholders, if there’s one universal truth about leadership, it’s that it cannot exist without relationships. The partnerships we form and sustain are the foundation of our collective success. I’m reminded of the African proverb: ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’ I pledge to build strong bonds and meaningful collaborations.”
Chief Tomasini is a veteran of both Iraq and Afghanistan, having served more than two decades in the New Jersey Army National Guard, where he currently holds the rank of major. He is the Infantry Branch Chief for the Observer Coach/Trainer Group, also known as the “OPS Group Devil.” His extensive military education includes Ranger School, airborne and air assault courses, senior service, Command and General Staff College courses, and multiple leadership programs.
Academically, Chief Tomasini holds an associate degree in criminal justice from the County College of Morris, two bachelor’s degrees in psychology and sociology and a master’s in management from Thomas Edison State University, an MBA in human resources from William Paterson University, and a doctor of education in organizational leadership from Stockton University. He is also a member of multiple international honor societies and volunteers with several community organizations.
Sheriff Gannon closed the ceremony by thanking all for attending the event and wishing Chief Tomasini all the best as he embarks on this new role and continues his service to the people of Morris County.
PARSIPPANY — American Legion Post 249 Open House Celebrating 90 years serving Veterans and the Community. Location is 91 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha.
Enjoy dessert with the Veterans who have served our Country for the Freedom we have. Learn how you can become a member of the Service Organization, which includes Legion, SAL, and Auxiliary—12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., August 2.
Councilman Justin Musella, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., and Councilman Matt McGrath
PARSIPPANY — The Township Council of Parsippany-Troy Hills will convene for its July 8, 2025, agenda meeting at 7:00 p.m. at the municipal building, where several key redevelopment initiatives and capital purchases will headline the evening’s proceedings.
The Council will hold public hearings and final votes on three ordinances, including redevelopment plans for 169 Lackawanna Avenue and 4 Gatehall Drive, as well as an ordinance authorizing land acquisitions through the township’s Open Space, Recreation, and Farmland Preservation Program.
The consent agenda features approvals for the purchase of a new double-sided electronic sign, a John Deere wheel loader, and a change order for improvements at Well 21-R, a significant infrastructure project. The Council will also consider support for a Children’s Day fireworks display in Mt. Tabor and authorize a grant submission to the New Jersey Department of Transportation for improvements on Fanny Road and Intervale Road.
Another focal point is the Corrective Action Plan, linked to the township’s 2024 audit, which auditor Valerie Dolan will present.
In addition, the first reading will be held for an ordinance to amend handicapped parking regulations in residential areas.
On the non-consent agenda, the Council will vote on participation in the New Jersey Sustainable Energy Joint Meeting for purchasing electricity and natural gas, along with enabling measures for online energy contracting and the acceptance of a property contribution on Pomeroy Road related to affordable housing development.
As always, residents will have the opportunity to speak during the public session. The next regular Council meeting is scheduled for July 22 at 7:00 p.m.
Mayor James Barberio Council President Paul Carifi, Jr. Council Vice President Frank Neglia Councilman Justin Musella Councilman Matt McGrath Councilwoman Judy Hernandez
Final Phase of Emergency Department Project Completed at Morristown Medical Center
MORRIS COUNTY — Atlantic Health System’s Morristown Medical Center has completed the final phase of its $27 million Sameth Emergency Department expansion and modernization project. This milestone enhances access to emergency medical care in one of the busiest hospitals in New Jersey and the nation.
The newly renovated emergency department includes 12 new patient rooms, 12 low-acuity bays, three private triage rooms in the waiting area, an electrocardiogram room, and two additional nursing and physician stations. With the project now completed, the emergency department has grown from 78 treatment areas in early 2022 to 120 today.
In 2024 alone, Morristown Medical Center’s emergency department served more than 110,000 patients, reflecting the growing demand from the region’s expanding population. Despite the large-scale renovations, the hospital and emergency department remained fully operational throughout the multi-phase construction process.
“This project was designed to improve the experience of our patients and their families, while also supporting the needs of our growing community and our dedicated team,” said Trish O’Keefe, PhD, RN, President of Morristown Medical Center. “I am deeply grateful to our team members and physicians for their commitment, and to our patients for their patience during this time.”
In addition to modernized facilities and expanded capacity, the emergency department now features enhanced triage areas, a behavioral health space, and specialized treatment areas for adults and children.
The completed expansion is considered the final development on the current physical footprint of the hospital, pending future projects that require necessary approvals. Proposed plans include a new patient care pavilion, a medical specialty building, a larger parking garage, and two additional floors to the Goryeb Children’s Hospital.
“With sustained high volumes, additional beds and facilities are essential to meeting our mission of extraordinary care,” O’Keefe said. “We are focused on continuing to enhance our infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve.”
New Neurovascular Inpatient Unit Opens
Morristown Medical Center also recently opened a new 24-bed neurovascular inpatient unit in the main hospital building. Designed for medical, intermediate, and acute care patients, the unit features all private rooms, a dedicated family space, and upgraded monitoring technology. The project required a strategic relocation of several departments and careful phased planning.
Specialty Services Expand on Madison Avenue
As part of a broader initiative to optimize space, Atlantic Health System has also launched new clinical services across the street from the main hospital campus:
Atlantic Health Urgent Care (111 Madison Avenue) offers rapid diagnostic testing, x-rays, and treatment for mild to severe health concerns.
Atlantic Vascular (65 Madison Avenue): Provides advanced diagnostics and treatment for circulatory disorders.
Hersh Fetal Center (55 Madison Avenue): Serves women with high-risk pregnancies, providing integrated maternal-fetal care in one location.
About Atlantic Health System
Atlantic Health System is a leading nonprofit health care provider serving more than 7.5 million people across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York. It includes eight hospitals and over 550 care sites, with a workforce of 24,000 and more than 7,779 affiliated physicians. Atlantic Health offers a full continuum of care, from urgent care to rehabilitation, and is a founding member of the Healthcare Transformation Consortium. The system is also the official health care partner of the New York Jets and is affiliated with the Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University.
