PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Police Athletic League (PAL) is teaming up with A-Money Basketball to offer Advanced Basketball Training this fall, designed for young athletes who are ready to elevate their game.
The program will run on Tuesdays from October 14 through November 18 at the PAL facility. Training sessions are divided by grade level, with students in grades 3–5 meeting from 5:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and grades 6–8 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.
Registration is $169.00 per player, with an additional $10 fee for nonresidents. Limited spots are available, and participants must have basic basketball fundamentals, as the training is recommended for intermediate and advanced players.
The six-week course will focus on:
Training athletes to play at a higher level
Developing all-around basketball skills
Building confidence, discipline, and teamwork on and off the court
“This program gives our young players the opportunity to push themselves, strengthen their fundamentals, and grow as athletes,” said a representative from A-Money Basketball. “It’s about preparing kids not just for games, but for success in the long run.”
The Parsippany PAL continues to provide programs that engage local youth in athletics, build community spirit, and encourage healthy competition.
Young musicians will take center stage at School of Rock Parsippany’s grand opening, showcasing the confidence and creativity that come from the school’s performance-based music education program.
PARSIPPANY — School of Rock, the leader in performance-based music education, is set to open its newest location in Parsippany on Sunday, September 7, with a grand celebration from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m. at 200 Route 46.
The event will feature live performances from School of Rock students, staff, and adult musicians, along with family-friendly attractions including face painting, a tie-dye shirt booth, and participation from local vendors. At 12:00 Noon, an official ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held with Mayor James Barberio, Township Council Members, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, and members of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.
The new school is owned by Robert Corbi, a lifelong music lover who was inspired by the power of music to connect and uplift communities. “At School of Rock Parsippany, we’re building confidence, creativity, and community,” said Corbi. “Watching our students grow as musicians and people is what makes our school so special. Nothing is more important to us than being a positive influence in Parsippany, and we can’t wait to give back.”
Corbi, a commercial real estate broker by profession, grew up playing guitar and falling in love with his parents’ Beatles and Beach Boys records. Now, as a father of two young children, he has seen firsthand the importance of exposing kids to art, music, and creative learning environments early in life.
“School of Rock’s unique approach doesn’t just teach kids to play, it gives them friendships, confidence, and a love for music that lasts a lifetime,” he added.
School of Rock Parsippany offers programs for all skill levels and age groups, from children as young as three to adults. Students receive weekly one-on-one instruction on guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, or vocals, and rehearse together in groups that culminate in live performances at real venues.
School of Rock Parsippany is preparing to welcome children, teens, and families for its grand opening celebration on Sunday, September 7, featuring live music, face painting, and fun activities.
“Robert’s passion for music, combined with his commitment to family and community, makes him an outstanding addition to the School of Rock family,” said Stacey Ryan, President of School of Rock. “We’re excited to see him bring our unique performance-based music education to Parsippany and create a space where students can build confidence, creativity, and lifelong friendships.”
Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill added, “We welcome School of Rock to Parsippany with open arms. This grand opening represents more than just a new business — it’s an investment in our children, our families, and the arts. Music brings people together, and School of Rock will strengthen the cultural heartbeat of our community.”
PARSIPPANY — The Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company, Parsippany Fire District Two, will host its 6th Annual Fall Plant Sale on Saturday, September 20, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 1 Rainbow Trail, Denville.
This much-anticipated community event brings together neighbors and supporters to celebrate the beauty of fall while raising funds for the dedicated volunteers who serve the Rainbow Lakes area. Visitors will find a wide variety of seasonal favorites, including mums, asters, peppers, cabbage, flowers, and pumpkins.
Set against the backdrop of autumn colors, the plant sale has become a local tradition, offering residents the chance to beautify their homes and gardens while supporting the fire company. Proceeds from the sale help the volunteers maintain their equipment, fund training, and continue to provide essential fire protection and emergency services.
With its welcoming atmosphere, colorful displays, and the spirit of community giving, the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company’s Fall Plant Sale offers something for everyone. Residents are encouraged to stop by, pick up their favorite fall plants, and show their support for the men and women who proudly serve Parsippany Fire District Two.
Unity Bank's newest branch located 265 Main Street, Madison
MORRIS COUNTY — Unity Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: UNTY), the parent company of Unity Bank, has been ranked 14th among the top 25 publicly traded banks in the United States, according to Bank Director’s 2025 Ranking Banking report, sponsored by Crowe LLP. The annual study analyzed 300 of the largest publicly traded banks nationwide, placing Unity Bancorp among the industry’s highest performers.
The RankingBanking report evaluated banks using four key metrics that reflect overall financial strength: core return on average equity, core return on average assets, the tangible common equity ratio, and the ratio of nonperforming assets to loans and other real estate owned. Data was sourced from S&P Global Market Intelligence and analyzed by investment bank Piper Sandler & Co., based on fiscal year 2024 results.
“This recognition reflects the continued strength of our business model and the commitment of our team to deliver value for customers and shareholders alike,” said James Hughes, President and Chief Executive Officer of Unity Bank. “To be named among the top 25 banks in the nation is a tremendous honor that validates our strategic focus and community banking approach.”
Unity Bancorp’s consistent performance in profitability, capital adequacy, and asset quality metrics contributed to its strong placement in the national ranking. The RankingBanking report is widely regarded as a benchmark for excellence in the banking industry.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Hills High School (PHHS) Boys Soccer Team will be rolling up their sleeves and grabbing the hoses for their upcoming Car Wash Fundraiser on Sunday, September 7.
The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the IHOP parking lot, located at 792 U.S. Highway 46, Parsippany. For just $10 per vehicle, community members can have their cars cleaned while directly supporting the Vikings boys soccer program.
In addition to car washes, the team is encouraging clean car owners to still stop by and contribute to the cause. Cash and Venmo will be accepted on-site the day of the event, with Venmo donations directed to @Katy-Ferrante.
The car wash not only helps raise vital funds for the team’s expenses throughout the season but also brings the community together to show their support for the young athletes representing Parsippany Hills on the soccer field.
So whether your car needs a shine or you simply want to cheer on the Vikings, be sure to stop by IHOP on September 7 and help support the PHHS Boys soccer team.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
PARSIPPANY — Acting Morris County Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Richard Pantina announce the implementation of a joint Driving While Intoxicated checkpoint in Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey for the weekend of September 6 and September 7, 2025.
Law enforcement personnel from the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department will be conducting the checkpoint.
DWI checkpoints are funded by grants received by the Prosecutor’s Office from the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety to conduct checkpoints in conjunction with municipal police departments throughout Morris County.
The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office has coordinated sobriety checks in the past throughout various municipalities in Morris County, and intends to continue to do so in the future with advance public notice.
MORRIS COUNTY — Macie and Mackley are just 8 months old—still babies, full of sweetness, innocence, and boundless love. But instead of knowing the joy of a warm bed, gentle hands, and a family’s embrace, their young lives began in heartbreak. Born in the South, they were cruelly dumped at a shelter, left unwanted and unseen.
Now their fate hangs in the balance. The shelter where they wait is a high-kill facility, and every day could be their last. These two siblings—playful, wiggly, and full of life—are on borrowed time. They have never truly experienced the world, never run free in a yard of their own, never curled up at night knowing they are safe.
Macie and Mackley adore everyone they meet. Their tails wag with hope, their eyes shine with trust, and they are desperate for the chance to love a family as deeply as only dogs can. We dream of seeing them adopted together, but they are also available individually—anything to save their precious lives.
They are healthy, up to date on vaccinations, and ready for the journey north if it means finding the forever home that will finally give them the life they deserve. With each passing day, the clock ticks louder. They need us.
Please—help us save Macie and Mackley before it’s too late.
To adopt, contact Heather Darling at [email protected], visit Facebook, or connect on Instagram @realheatherdarling.
Joining owners Saad Choudhry and Humzah Saleem for the celebration were Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Township Council Vice President Frank Neglia, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill.
PARSIPPANY — Zalim Hot Chicken & Burgers, located at 229 Littleton Road, hosted a Back to School Backpack Giveaway on Saturday, August 30, ensuring local children were prepared for the start of the school year.
Joining owners Saad Choudhry and Humzah Saleem for the celebration were Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Township Council Vice President Frank Neglia, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill. Dozens of children lined up with their families, receiving new backpacks just in time for the first day of school.
Zalim Hot Chicken & Burgers has quickly made its mark in Parsippany with its bold menu featuring smash burgers, crispy Nashville-style hot chicken, loaded fries, indulgent shakes, and vegan options — all made with halal-certified ingredients and fresh, daily preparation.
The Parsippany restaurant joins Zalim’s growing family of locations, including:
Englewood, NJ – 3 East Palisade Avenue
Brooklyn, NY – 7021 3rd Avenue
Parsippany, NJ – 229 Littleton Road
Co-owner Humzah Saleem shared, “At Zalim, we believe in giving back to the communities that support us. This backpack drive is our way of showing that we care about our neighbors, and we want local students to begin the school year with confidence.”
Council Vice President Frank Neglia praised the effort, saying, “This initiative is a perfect example of business and government working together — putting families and students first. I commend Zalim for stepping forward and supporting our community.”
Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill added, “When local businesses like Zalim invest in our children, it strengthens the entire community. Today’s event reflects the best of Parsippany’s spirit — neighbors helping neighbors.”
The event highlighted not only Zalim’s signature flavor and hospitality but also their commitment to becoming an active partner in the Parsippany community.
Dozens of children lined up with their families, receiving new backpacks filled with supplies just in time for the first day of school.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Hills High School Marching Band and Color Guard will be holding a Car Wash Fundraiser on Saturday, September 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Parsippany Elks Club, located at 230 Parsippany Road.
For just $5.00 per vehicle, community members can have their cars cleaned while supporting a great cause. All proceeds from the event will benefit the PHHS Marching Band and Color Guard, helping fund uniforms, equipment, and program expenses that keep the award-winning group performing at the highest level.
Organizers encourage residents to stop by, get their cars washed, and show their support for local students who dedicate countless hours to rehearsals, halftime shows, and community performances.
This family-friendly event offers an easy way for Parsippany residents to contribute while driving away with a sparkling clean car.
Mayor James Barberio, Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Chamber President Robert Peluso, and Board Members Ildiko Peluso and Nicolas Limanov joined owner Gopal Patel, along with family, friends, and customers, to celebrate the ribbon cutting of Comprehensive Orthopedic Physical Therapy, 745 Route 46, Parsippany.
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills celebrated the grand opening of Comprehensive Orthopedic Physical Therapy, located at 745 Route 46, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local leaders, family, customers, and friends.
Owners Gopal Patel and Poonam Patel was joined in the celebration by Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, and Chamber Board Members Ildiko Peluso and Nicolas Limanov. The event highlighted not only the opening of a new business but also the commitment to building a healthier, stronger community.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill presents a welcoming plaque to Comprehensive Orthopedic Physical Therapy owners Gopal Patel and Poonam Patel during the grand opening celebration at 745 Route 46, Parsippany, stating, “Together, we look forward to building a healthier community through care, strength, and healing.”
Chairman Cahill presented to the owners, Gopal Patel and Poonam Patel with a welcoming plaque, remarking, “Parsippany celebrates the arrival of Comprehensive Orthopedic Physical Therapy, offering modern rehabilitation and wellness programs. Together, we look forward to building a healthier community through care, strength, and healing.”
Comprehensive Services for the Community
Comprehensive Orthopedic Physical Therapy offers an extensive range of services designed to treat pain, restore mobility, and improve overall wellness. Conditions addressed include:
Back, neck, shoulder, hip, knee, foot, and ankle pain
Sciatica, arthritis, chronic pain, and TMJ dysfunction
Post-surgical and pre-surgical rehabilitation
Neurological conditions, stroke recovery, and balance disorders
Sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents, and work-related injuries
The clinic employs advanced treatment techniques such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, acupuncture, cupping, Kinesio Taping, and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (GRASTON-IASTM). Specialized programs include vestibular therapy for dizziness and vertigo, return-to-sports assessments, and sports performance optimization.
In addition, the facility features state-of-the-art tools like Alter-G, Game Ready, and Normatec systems to accelerate recovery. Patients benefit from personalized treatment plans, thorough evaluations, and ongoing education, empowering them to actively participate in their rehabilitation.
Accessible and Patient-Centered Care
The Parsippany location offers Direct Access, allowing patients to begin physical therapy without a physician referral, ensuring faster care. The clinic also provides flexible private-pay options for uninsured patients, accepts a wide range of insurance plans, and welcomes Medicare beneficiaries.
With a mission rooted in care, strength, and healing, Comprehensive Orthopedic Physical Therapy is positioned to make a lasting impact on the Parsippany community, helping residents live pain-free, active, and healthier lives.
Parsippany takes another step toward a greener future with the installation of new EV charging stations, giving residents and visitors more convenient options for sustainable travel.
PARSIPPANY – Encore Energy Group, a leading provider of turnkey energy infrastructure solutions, today announced the completion of six new public-access EV charging stations at 35 Waterview Boulevard. The chargers are publicly accessible and located just off I-287 at the prominent office complex adjacent to the new Waterview Marketplace shopping center on Route 46, providing a convenient charging option for area commuters, tenants and visitors. The project was funded through a combination of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) grants and JCP&L utility rebates, covering over 60 percent of the total project cost.
“This project is a strong example of how Encore navigates every available incentive to deliver solutions at an affordable cost,” said Bill Dato, CEO, Encore Energy Group. “Our team managed every step in-house, from design to installation to incentive filings, and ultimately capturing maximum savings with minimal effort for the customer. It’s that hands-on approach that unlocks the value of the incentives for building modernization.”
Through the NJDEP’s “It Pay$ to Plug In” program, the project qualified for a grant of up to $24,000 ($4,000 per plug). Additional make-ready rebates from JCP&L added approximately $6,700 per port, further reducing infrastructure costs. This approach is core to Encore’s model: identifying and stacking available funding streams, managing the paperwork and delivering compliant installations that maximize incentive eligibility. By doing so, Encore empowers more property owners to offer EV charging with minimal capital outlay.
“Encore made this project incredibly easy for us,” said Michael Basic, President, YMP Real Estate Management. “They handled everything, from design and permitting to managing the grant and rebate paperwork. Compared to dealing with multiple vendors, Encore’s full-service approach saved us time, avoided headaches and delivered real savings.”
The project site at 35 Waterview is less than 10 minutes from Encore’s Pine Brook headquarters, showcasing the company’s commitment to expanding sustainable infrastructure in its home region. The project demonstrates Encore’s expertise in delivering affordable, EV charging solutions through strategic incentive management, an increasingly vital service as demand for public-facing EV infrastructure grows.
About Encore Energy Group Encore Energy Group is the tri-state area’s leading full-service provider of turnkey EV charging and LED lighting solutions, including electrical contracting and construction management. Encore simplifies energy upgrades by managing every step from engineering and grant/rebate filings to installation and maintenance, ensuring ROI-first results and seamless execution for commercial, industrial and municipal clients.
Players are encouraged to sign up now for Parsippany's Fall Men’s Softball League, running September 2 through October 30, with games held Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Recreation is inviting local athletes to step up to the plate and join the Men’s Softball Free Agent Team for the upcoming fall season.
The season begins on Tuesday, September 2, and runs through Thursday, October 30, with all games scheduled at Smith Field E – Turf. This opportunity is open to players who are not currently affiliated with a team but still want to take part in the league.
“This is a great way for residents to stay active, meet new people, and enjoy the fun of competitive softball in our community,” said Justin Stanton of Parsippany Recreation.
Those interested can contact Justin directly at (973) 944-8336, call the Recreation Department at (973) 263-7257, or email [email protected]. Registration is also available online by clicking here.
Littleton Elementary School staff, students, parents, and community members gather in front of the school bus during the ‘Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive’ at Applebee’s
PARSIPPANY — The Littleton Elementary School community came together on Saturday, August 23rd for a pancake breakfast at Applebee’s in support of a “Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive.” Sponsored and hosted by Applebee’s, the event invited families, neighbors, and supporters to donate school supplies while enjoying a delicious breakfast.
Principal Brian Staples, Applebee’s General Manager Barbara Thompson, school staff, parents, and students greeted attendees with smiles as bags of notebooks, pencils, markers, backpacks, and other essentials filled collection bins. The event not only raised much-needed supplies for the upcoming school year but also fostered a strong sense of community spirit.
The school bus inside Applebee’s was filled to the brim with donated supplies during the Littleton Elementary ‘Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive.’
The “Stuff the Bus” initiative serves as an important reminder of the value of collaboration between schools, local businesses, and residents. By combining efforts, families ensured that students in need would begin the school year prepared and confident. Applebee’s, a long-standing gathering place for Parsippany residents, once again demonstrated its commitment to giving back by hosting an event that blended community service with family fun.
With the new school year right around the corner, the drive was marked by excitement, generosity, and the shared belief that every child deserves the tools they need to succeed.
Kids at the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA dive into fall with energy, creativity, and fun during youth programs open to both members and non-members.
MORRIS COUNTY — Fall is around the corner, and the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is ready to kick off a season full of energy, creativity, and community with the launch of Fall Registration for youth programs. Whether your child is eager to move, build, create, or explore, the Y has something for every age and interest—and best of all, programs are open to both members and non-members!
Here’s a sample of what is happening this fall:
Dance Academy: From beginner ballet to acro dance, we offer a complete range of dance classes for all skill levels. Whether your child is twirling for the first time or ready to take the stage, we’ve got the perfect class!
Dodgeball, Jr. & Sr. Parkour, and Homeschool Gym: Keep kids active and engaged with high-energy favorites designed to build physical strength, teamwork, and fun.
Science & Arts Lab: Dive into tech and creativity with classes like Scratch Coding, Tinkercad, App Creation, and Design Workshops. Whether your child is a budding engineer or artist, this is the place to spark new passions.
Pokémon Card Program: Got a Pokémon fan at home? This new offering gives kids a space to trade, play, and learn strategy in a welcoming environment.
Swim, Gym & Fun: For toddlers and preschoolers, our beloved prep-for-preschool program builds skills through active play and social interaction. Choose from 1- or 2-day options.
Kids Night Out: Parents, we’ve got you covered! Enjoy an evening to yourself while your kids have a blast in a safe, supervised setting at the Y.
Birthday Parties: Now Better Than Ever! We’ve revamped our birthday party packages to make celebrating easier than ever. With exciting themes and convenient add-ons like pizza and cake, the Y is your one-stop party place!
From sports and STEM to social clubs and skill-building, there’s something for everyone this season. Don’t wait—spots fill quickly!
About Lakeland Hills Family YMCA Rooted in community, the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA offers inclusive programs that support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our doors are open to all, and we work to ensure every child and family has the opportunity to thrive—regardless of membership status.
Morris County holds its sixth annual Overdose Awareness Day ceremony on August 28, at One Medical Drive, Parsippany. Families who lost loved ones to substance use or fentanyl poisoning were recognized.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County officials, families of overdose victims and service providers recognized the 24th International Overdose Awareness Day by gathering today on the lawn of the Morris County Central Avenue Complex, where they remembered lost lives and raised awareness of the worldwide opioid crisis.
The event, organized by the county Division of Community & Behavioral Health Services, marked the sixth consecutive year Morris County has observed Overdose Awareness Day, which is recognized annually on August 31. The ceremony also recognized Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Day, observed every July 14, and featured personal reflections from family members who have lost loved ones to overdose as well as individuals who shared their journeys of sobriety and recovery.
“Morris County has seen a steady decline in overdose tragedies since 2017, but it is important to stay vigilant, because behind every statistic is a son, a daughter, a friend or a loved one — and the fight to protect people from this crisis is never over,” said Commissioner Christine Myers. “The county has invested $820,000 in opioid settlement funds over the past two years to support prevention, Narcan training and recovery services. These efforts are saving lives.”
State Sen. Anthony Bucco, who sponsored legislation designating August 31 as Overdose Awareness Day in New Jersey in 2020, delivered opening remarks.
“Addiction does not have to end in tragedy. Help and hope are always possible,” said Sen. Bucco. “Morris County immediately jumped in after the legislation was passed, starting programs and bringing us back year after year to remember — and to work for a day when substance abuse is a thing of the past.”
Nationally, overdose deaths have declined in recent years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2024, 80,391 lives were lost to overdose, down 27 percent from 110,037 in 2023.
“Morris County has made progress, but human lives are precious and all are worth rescuing. Our work here is a life-saving mission, and we must continue to see a reduction in these tremendous losses,” said Sheriff James Gannon. “I am so proud of all our efforts, from Hope One to our many partnerships, but today I especially want to recognize Cpl. Erica Valvano, the ‘Mother of Hope One.’ Erica has saved many of the lives included in that progress. This is timely and coincidental today, as Erica works her last day here in Morris County — I want to thank her for the direct and incredible impact she has made!”
Carol Egan, Morris County Human Services Director, Kasey Errico, Commissioner, Christine Myers, and Sen. Anthony Bucco.
Morris County Chief Sheriff’s Officer Aaron Tomasini also spoke at the event, highlighting law enforcement’s ongoing efforts to address the opioid crisis. The county’s response is supported by partnerships among county departments, law enforcement agencies and more than 75 service providers. Key initiatives include the Sheriff’s Office Re-Entry Program, Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative (PAARI), Community Connections, the Hope One mobile unit, Hope Hub, Navigating Hope (a mobile outreach program run by the Morris County Department of Human Services and Family Promise of Morris County), the Mental Health Association of Morris County and the county’s Overdose Fatality Review Team.
Narcan, an over-the-counter drug that reverses opioid overdoses, has also played a critical role in saving lives. Since 2017, the Hope One team has distributed nearly 12,000 Narcan kits, with 185 reported uses to save or attempt to save lives. The program has made more than 1,800 referrals to recovery and support services, and its model has been replicated in ten other counties.
Law enforcement officials continue to face challenges from synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and xylazine. Fentanyl, which is increasingly mixed with xylazine — an animal tranquilizer resistant to Narcan — has become dominant in the illicit drug market.
“In New jersey, the crisis keeps evolving. Pills became heroin, heroin became fentanyl, and now we see fentanyl mixed with other poisons,” said Brad Seabury, Morris County Chief Assistant Prosecutor. “Just recently, about three-quarters of opioids seized here in Morris County contained xylazine.”
Seabury noted that Narcan has played a critical role in saving lives. Law enforcement officers reversed 162 overdoses in 2022, 144 in 2023, 96 in 2024 and 39 so far this year.
“The trend is encouraging,” he said. “It means lives are being saved, and fewer emergency calls are ending in tragedy.”
The ceremony concluded with a remembrance led by Carol Egan, founder of the Global Recovery Movement, who has been a leader in prevention efforts for more than three decades. An opening prayer was offered by Pastor Chuck Corradino of Butler Church of the Nazarene, and Rabbi Moshe Rudin of Adath Shalom in Parsippany closed the ceremony.
The annual ceremony serves as a solemn reminder of the ongoing struggle against addiction and the need for continued compassion, action and community support.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, in collaboration with Juventus Academy New Jersey, invites local families to take part in Juventus Open Days—a series of exciting, soccer-themed community events for children ages 3–10.
These free, public events offer families a great way to get active, make new connections, and experience the joy of soccer—regardless of skill level.
Each Juventus Open Day features:
Interactive soccer games and skill challenges
Meet-and-greets with Juventus Academy coaches and staff
YMCA giveaways
Insights into youth development and community wellness
Event Schedule
Montville / Pine Brook 📅 Saturday, September 20 🕘 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. 📍 Woodmont Elementary School, 39 Woodmont Road, Pine Brook, NJ 07058 ☔ Rain Date: Saturday, September 27
Parsippany-Troy Hills 📅 Sunday, November 2 🕙 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 📍 Central Park of Morris County – Field #1, 1 Governor Chris Christie Drive, Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ 07950 ☔ Rain or Shine
Bring your friends and join us for a fun-filled day of play, teamwork, and youth empowerment. Whether your child is new to soccer or already loves the game, there’s something for everyone.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President-Elect Bonnie Sturm, Key Club Lieutenant Governor of Division 17 Aashka Katapally, UNICEF Champion Anisha Mulinti, and New Jersey District of Kiwanis International Governor-Elect Frank Cahill.
PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany recently welcomed two inspiring student leaders whose passion for service and leadership resonated deeply with members. Aashka Katapally, Key Club Lieutenant Governor of Division 17, and Anisha Mulinti, a dedicated UNICEF Champion, visited the club to speak about their roles and how student leadership is shaping a brighter future locally and globally.
Aashka, who represents Division 17, serves as Lieutenant Governor for Boonton High School, Parsippany High School, Parsippany Hills High School, Mountain Lakes High School, Morristown High School, Montville Township High School, and the Academy of Saint Elizabeth. She spoke about her leadership responsibilities, which include mentoring student officers, organizing divisional service events, and serving as the liaison between Key Club International and local chapters.
“Leadership through service has changed my life,” Aashka shared. “And the support we receive from Kiwanis makes everything we do possible.”
Anisha Mulinti, known for her strong advocacy and public speaking, shared her journey as a UNICEF Champion—a role in which she raises awareness and leads action on issues such as child survival, education, clean water, and emergency relief. She emphasized the powerful partnership between Key Club and UNICEF and how students are empowered to create real impact.
“Being a UNICEF Champion has shown me that youth voices can be powerful tools for change,” Anisha said. “Every fundraiser and awareness campaign we run in our schools has global reach.”
Members of the Kiwanis Club were deeply impressed with the poise, dedication, and maturity of both student leaders. Bonnie Sturm, President-Elect of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, praised the young women, calling them “exceptional role models who exemplify the future of service leadership.”
Also in attendance was Frank Cahill, Governor-Elect of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International, who expressed his appreciation: “Aashka and Anisha are exactly the kind of leaders our world needs. They’re thoughtful, passionate, and already making a real difference.”
The visit was a powerful reminder of the strong and lasting bond between Kiwanis and Key Club, and of the transformative impact of service-driven youth leadership throughout the Parsippany area.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, September 2025. Click here to read the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — Among the more than 3,500 graduates celebrated at the University of Rhode Island’s 2025 Commencement was Parsippany’s own Jack Summa, who earned his Doctor of Pharmacy degree Summa Cum Laude, marking the highest level of academic distinction.
The ceremonies took place from Friday, May 16 through Sunday, May 18, on the university’s Kingston, Rhode Island campus. Nearly 3,600 undergraduate degrees and 600 graduate degrees were awarded, with Summa standing out for his academic excellence in the university’s highly regarded pharmacy program.
Graduating Summa Cum Laude requires a cumulative grade point average of 3.7 or higher, a mark of both academic rigor and consistent achievement. Summa’s success reflects his dedication to both scholarship and service—values that echo throughout the Parsippany-Troy Hills community.
A proud graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, Jack Summa’s accomplishments add to the town’s tradition of producing top-tier students who go on to make a difference in their fields.
To view highlights from the 2025 URI Commencement, please click here.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, September 2025. Click here to view the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — Post 249 American Legion will host its annual Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, September 28, from 8:00 a.m. to Noon at the Legion Hall, located at 91 N. Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha. The community is invited to enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring pancakes, bacon, sausage, fruit salad, coffee, tea, fruit juices, chocolate milk, and regular milk. Tickets are $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children ages 6 to 12, while children under 5 eat free.
In addition to the hearty breakfast, there will be games for children to play, making it a fun family outing.
Proceeds from the event will benefit local Legion projects, including Operation ChillOut, an all-volunteer mobile outreach program dedicated to serving homeless veterans.
Tickets can be reserved by calling (973) 335-9266 or by visiting the Legion Hall between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday (back bar entrance).
PARSIPPANY — The Lake Hiawatha Seniors are inviting the community to join them for a fun-filled bus trip to Wind Creek Casino on Monday, September 15, 2025.
The cost of the trip is $35 per person, which includes $25 back in casino slot money. The bus will depart from the Knoll Park parking lot, opposite the golf course, at 9:15 a.m. and return at approximately 5:00 p.m. Reservations must be paid by September 3. Checks should be made payable to the Lake Hiawatha Seniors.
This fundraiser supports the club’s mission of keeping local seniors active, engaged, and informed on current issues throughout the year. Anyone 18 or older is welcome to attend the trip.
The Lake Hiawatha Seniors meet on the first and third Wednesday of every month at noon, and membership is open to those 55 and older. The club provides opportunities for fellowship, social activities, and educational programs that enrich the lives of area seniors.
“Events like this not only bring people together for an enjoyable day, but they also help us continue offering programs and resources for our senior community,” said Vicki Rice, who is coordinating the trip.
For more information or to reserve your seat, contact Vicki Rice at (973) 402-6823
