MORRIS COUNTY – Democratic Morris County Commissioner candidates Justin Strickland, Jonathan Sackett, and William “Bud” Ravitz reject the outrageous lies in the mailer sent by the New Jersey Republican State Committee implying that the candidates do not back and support law enforcement.

Here’s the truth: As elected officials in their towns, all three candidates have consistently voted to fully fund the police, voted to hire additional officers, and have been out in the community showing their support of law enforcement.

Justin Strickland is a United States Army combat veteran who acutely understands the importance of public safety. As a Chatham Borough Councilman, Strickland voted this year to hire two additional police officers and purchase two additional police cars not originally in the planned budget. His dedication to public safety extends to school safety. Strickland was the leading councilperson to support Chatham Borough paying for the school police officers out of the municipal budget.

As Rockaway Township Councilman, Jonathan Sackett helped push Rockaway Township in partnership with the Board of Education to hire class three officers in the elementary schools. He voted to increase the police department every year for the six years he has been on the council. Sackett also teaches self-defense and safety as the owner of a martial arts school, and he is proud that his son interned with the Rockaway Township Police department and is now a member of the ROTC for the US Army.

As Morris Township Committeeman and former Deputy Mayor, Bud Ravitz is proud to say that their police department is recognized as one of the best in the county. He serves on the Police Standing Committee and has consistently voted to fully fund the police operating budget and purchase three new vehicles every year.

After decades of a one-party Morris County Board of Commissioners, Strickland, Sackett, and Ravitz are ready to revitalize the county with a focus on your voice: Voices that have been asking for a new strategy to combat overdevelopment and better government transparency.

This team of experienced elected officials will always show up for the community. They’ll prioritize community engagement, always seeking to save taxpayer dollars with an eye toward shared services. They know how to make improvements for more livable communities – they’ve done it in their towns and they can do it for the whole county.

Learn more about Strickland, Sackett, and Ravitz by clicking here.

PARSIPPANY — Attention, animal lovers! Pawfect Journey is a new, free resource dedicated to helping Parsippany residents provide exceptional care for their pets. From training tips to enrichment ideas, this website is designed for pet parents looking to make their furry companions’ lives more fulfilling.

On Pawfect Journey, you’ll find informative articles like “Dog Toys for High Energy Dogs,” “Questions to Ask Yourself Before Adopting a Cat,” and “Can Dogs Eat Salmon?” No matter your experience level, this resource provides valuable insights for every stage of pet ownership.

Discover ways to deepen your connection with your pets and explore essential pet care information by visiting www.pawfectjourney.com. For additional questions, reach out to info@pawfectjourney.com.

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling recently led an insightful seminar at the Morris County Library, focusing on estate planning and the serious implications of dying without a will. Special guest Jay Thomson, President of Benson Thomson Agency, Inc., provided valuable insights into surety bonds, enhancing the discussion for attendees.

“Around 40% of estate cases that come through the Morris County Surrogate’s Court are administrations, meaning someone passed without a will. These conversations are crucial to help families avoid unnecessary complications,” stated Surrogate Darling.

The seminar was accessible through multiple platforms, offering in-person attendance, webinar participation, and live streaming to allow residents to join in their preferred format. Surrogate Darling’s commitment to sharing important information through various channels reflects her dedication to serving Morris County residents and ensuring the Surrogate’s Office resources are easily accessible.

For more information about the Morris County Surrogate’s Office and upcoming events, please visit www.morrissurrogate.com.

PARSIPPANY — The Friends of the Parsippany Library are proudly celebrating their 40th anniversary in 2024! This all-volunteer group has spent decades supporting programs, events, and resources across Parsippany’s three library branches.

To commemorate this milestone, the Friends are inviting the community to get involved with special 40th-anniversary offerings:

• Discounted Membership: Sign up for a $10.00 annual membership (normally $15.00), valid through 2025, if you join by December 31, 2024.
• Heart Donation Program: Show your support by purchasing a $1.00 heart at any Parsippany library branch, where it will be displayed with your name.
• Book and Media Bag Sales: Find books and media at bargain prices, perfect for building a personal library for yourself or a loved one.
• Little Nook Bookshop: Discover recent, gift-quality books for $1–$2 each.
• Anniversary Celebration and Dedication: Join the Storytime Room Dedication and Anniversary Celebration at the Main Library on December 4 at 2:00 pm. Attendees can also browse the special Holiday Sale.

Celebrate this milestone by supporting the Friends’ mission to foster a love of reading and lifelong learning in the Parsippany community.

PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany recently took part in the lively Trunk or Treat event, bringing smiles, fun, and a focus on dental health to local families. Held at Smith Field Park, the event drew hundreds of children and parents, all dressed in creative costumes and ready for Halloween festivities. The Kiwanis Club, known for its dedication to community service, provided both sweet treats, toothpaste, and toothbrushes, ensuring that even during candy-filled celebrations, kids remember the importance of oral hygiene.

Adding to the excitement, this year’s event featured special guests, including New Jersey Governor-Elect Frank Cahill and Nick Sota, a Mountain Lakes High School Key Club member. Both were actively involved, distributing candy and toothbrushes while engaging with families throughout the day. Cahill, a long-time supporter of community events in Parsippany, took time to meet and greet attendees, sharing encouraging words with parents and kids alike. Meanwhile, Sota, representing the younger generation of community service, eagerly helped hand out goodies, showcasing the spirit of volunteerism fostered through the Key Club program.

The Kiwanis Club’s participation in Trunk or Treat is part of its broader mission to foster community well-being through engaging and educational events. “It’s all about making sure children have a fun and safe Halloween, while also reminding them to take care of their teeth,” a club representative remarked. The event was a resounding success, with a vibrant atmosphere, plenty of happy faces, and a shared message that balanced both treats and tooth health. The day ended on a high note, leaving families with lasting memories and a goodie bag filled with both candy and care.

This year’s Trunk or Treat event brought a frightfully fun day for children and families, filled with costumes, candy, and creativity. Children dressed in their best Halloween attire, bringing bags of factory-sealed candy as admission. The Pumpkin Patch was a special hit, with kids picking and painting pumpkins to celebrate the season.

Food trucks from local favorites, including ShopRite, Mr. Softee, Kona Ice, and Avellino’s Pizza, added flavor to the festivities. With trick-or-treating, creative pumpkin fun, and delicious treats, it was a Halloween celebration to remember in Parsippany!

PARSIPPANY — New Jersey Fire Weather Alert and Fireworks Safety Warning: New Jersey’s fire risk remains very high to extreme due to ongoing dry conditions and minimal rainfall, prompting the New Jersey Forest Fire Service to enforce Stage 3 fire restrictions. Recent brush fires in Rockaway, Denville, and Livingston have highlighted the current dangers, as dry landscapes make fires more likely to ignite and spread rapidly.

🚨 Fireworks Alert: All types of fireworks are highly discouraged as they can easily spark brush fires in these dry conditions.

Stage 3 Restrictions Include:

Charcoal fires are strictly prohibited.

Only propane, natural gas, gas, or electric stoves in elevated setups are permitted.

Please consider these conditions carefully while celebrating Diwali and stay safe.

PARSIPPANY — On October 23rd at the general membership meeting of the Sons of Italy, Morris County Lodge 2561, several organizations and citizens were recognized for the valuable, selfless, and caring services they provide to various in-need community groups, be it for safety, support, nourishment, or just their general overall well-being.  Lodge 2561, known for their long-standing and ongoing charitable endeavors, generously supports, and partners with, numerous community service organizations and individuals throughout the year, and is always ready and willing to reach out to help when needed.

Sizeable monetary donations were made to both the Jersey Battered Women’s Service (JBWS) and the Interfaith Food Pantry Network, while Parsippany PAL Wrestling was recognized for the important services, they provide supporting our younger generation. Eccola Italian Bistro’s, Jeff DiBlasi, was also recognized for his ongoing support of the Lodge.

Robin M. Hughes, DVS Manager, Crisis Response Team of JBWS, herself a domestic abuse victim, presented an impassioned, insightful, and grateful presentation to the assembled group. Ms. Hughes and her group’s work for abused victims is an essential, if not lifesaving, service that this County is extremely fortunate to have. If you need their services they can be reached at (973) 267-7520 ext. 229, at their helpline at 1-877.R.U.ABUSED, or at www.jbws.org. JBWS also accepts, in addition to monetary donations, such items as clothing, household goods, etc.

Carolyn Lake, Executive Director of the Interfaith Food Pantry, also educated the membership of the organization’s efforts over the past 25 years.  The Food Pantry’s mission of improving the health and well-being of Morris County residents in need by providing access to food, education, and other resources is certainly a challenging and worthwhile endeavor, and by taking a look at their 2023 numbers they are succeeding.  Last year 2,158,851 pounds of food was distributed, 1,962,591 meals were provided, 856,494 pounds of produce was distributed, and 39,302 household visits were made. Contributions are welcomed to help fund some, or all of their programs, and volunteers are always in need.  The Pantry is located at 2 Executive Drive, Morris Plains, and you can contact the Interfaith Food Pantry at (973) 538-8049. Their website is www.mcifp.org.

Kellie Andersen, Julia Wallace, and Shawn Cortese representing Parsippany PAL Wrestling were on hand to thank the Lodge for their assistance in always donating a delicious Italian-style dinner at their annual fundraising event. The Lodge’s ace cooking crew is always glad to come out and spend the day putting together a fantastic pasta and meatball dinner for the usually very large crowd. And, as usual, they have agreed to be there again to continue to create their magic in the kitchen. That date is still to be announced.

The Lodge also voted to provide substantial amounts in food gift cards to families of school-age children to ensure they have the opportunity for a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner. As they do every Thanksgiving, Lodge President Joe Jannarone Jr. and his crew will deliver full turkey dinners to needy members of the community.

Morris County’s Lodge, one of 29 Lodges in New Jersey, is a non-profit organization that proudly contributes thousands of dollars to worthwhile charities and families in need. The Lodge regularly purchases and dispenses gift cards to assist needy families. The Morris County Lodge currently consists of approximately 100 members and continues to grow. The Lodge is proud of the fact that almost every dollar that the organization acquires through donations, fundraisers, etc., goes directly back into the community through the various community groups and individuals in need.

Dear Editor:

Recent events surrounding the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education election have raised concerns about the direction of our educational leadership. A current board member and candidate for re-election recently apologized for her disruptive behavior at the September 10, 2024, Town Council Meeting. This incident, while troubling, is part of a larger pattern that deserves our attention.

Suzy Golderer is running alongside another current Board member, Sheethal Abraham, and former Board member, Matt DeVitto. All three have been endorsed by NJ Project, an organization affiliated with Moms for Liberty. It’s worth noting that NJ Project has been classified as an ‘anti-government’ hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center, a respected civil rights organization.

These candidates’ actions and affiliations raise questions about their ability to represent Parsippany’s diverse community fairly. Board of Education members swear an oath to represent ALL students, not just those whose families align with their personal beliefs. However, the voting record of these candidates suggests a narrow view of education that does not serve our entire student body.

A concerning example is their March 2022 vote against books recommended by district administration for the high school book club. These were not mandatory curriculum materials, but rather optional selections meant to reflect our diverse student population and broaden perspectives. The titles they rejected included A Good Neighborhood by Therese Anne Fowler, a story of neighboring families who clash over property lines, an oak tree, and their teenagers’ forbidden romance, exposing racial and class divides; and Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz, a coming of age story of a lonely teen struggling with his sexual identity. By rejecting these books, the candidates demonstrated a reluctance to expose students to a range of ideas and experiences – a crucial aspect of a well-rounded education. They also demonstrated an unwillingness to offer a sense of belonging and acceptance to students in our district who identify as LGBTQ+.

Parsippany is a vibrant, diverse, and accepting community. Our children deserve an education that prepares them to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. We need elected officials who will champion inclusive policies, embrace diversity, and ensure that all students have access to a rich, varied educational experience.

As we approach this election, I urge fellow residents to consider carefully whether these candidates truly represent the best interests of all our children. Parsippany deserves leaders who will broaden horizons, not limit them. Let’s choose representatives who will help our students grow into informed, empathetic, and successful citizens of our diverse world, and who will ensure that all our children feel included and accepted at school.

Cori Herbig

MORRIS COUNTY — Following the news that New Jersey is facing a severe structural budget gap, Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) released the following statement:

“In a time when New Jerseyans are dealing with an affordability crisis, Governor Murphy and Trenton Democrats continue to use taxpayers like a bottomless bank account to fund their pet-project wish list while leaving residents to pick up the slack. Take StayNJ for example, New Jersey taxpayers were promised a reduction in property taxes with the program but costs over $1 billion annually—where is that money coming from? Unfortunately, that may be the first program to be eliminated,” said Sen. Pennacchio.

“Republicans have warned for years that the bloated, wasteful spending we’ve seen from Trenton was bound to catch up with us and now there’s no denying that our state is in trouble. With the shocking 60 percent increase in state spending and overuse of one-shot revenue enhancers, it comes as no surprise that Governor Murphy and Trenton Democrats overplayed their hand when it comes to our budget which will inevitably lead to higher taxes,” Pennacchio continued.

According to NJ Spotlight, “Murphy and lawmakers may have to decide whether to hike taxes, roll back spending, or further deplete the surplus funds when they begin to craft the next state budget early next year.”

“If my colleagues across the aisle are serious about making the Garden State more affordable, they must cut the pork and accept Republican ideas for reform so we can get rid of the deficit, and provide tax relief now,” Pennacchio concluded.

Sen. Pennacchio has long been a critic of Murphy and the Democrats’ fiscal mismanagement, in June of 2023, he called out the flawed budget process.

PARSIPPANY — Get ready for a day of shopping, creativity, and community spirit as the American Legion Auxiliary hosts a Vendor/Craft Fair on Saturday, November 9. Taking place from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 91 N. Beverwyck Road in Lake Hiawatha, this event is set to showcase an exciting array of local vendors and crafters, offering something special for everyone.

Visitors will find a variety of handmade items, from cozy baby blankets and festive Christmas decor to beautiful jewelry and unique edible arrangements. This craft fair is a wonderful chance to support local artisans and pick up one-of-a-kind items, whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for gifts for friends and family as the holiday season approaches.

In addition to the shopping, food and beverages will be available for sale, providing a perfect opportunity to grab a bite to eat while browsing the different stalls. The event promises a festive, family-friendly atmosphere where attendees can enjoy the charm of local craftsmanship and community connections.

Make sure to mark your calendar for this delightful day at the American Legion Auxiliary’s Vendor/Craft Fair and join the Lake Hiawatha community in celebrating local talent and creativity.

PARSIPPANY — Members of the Indian community in Parsippany gathered on the lawn of Town Hall, joined by Mayor James Barberio and Council Vice President Frank Neglia, to unveil a “Happy Diwali” banner in honor of the upcoming “Festival of Lights.” The festive display celebrates the spirit of Diwali, a holiday observed by millions worldwide to mark the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.

During the gathering, Mayor Barberio extended his heartfelt wishes to the community, saying, “I wish all who celebrate a wonderful Diwali. I hope you have a meaningful five days as you celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.”

The banner and celebration mark Parsippany’s commitment to embracing its rich cultural diversity and supporting the traditions of its residents. As Diwali approaches, the community looks forward to a time of joy, reflection, and unity.

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Hills High School Wrestling Team is gearing up for a fun and festive fundraiser to support its athletes. On Saturday, November 2, the team will host a Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast at Applebee’s, located at 1057 Route 46 East, Parsippany, NJ. The event will run from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., and tickets are available for $15.00.

Attendees can enjoy a delicious breakfast that includes pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs, and coffee, juice, soda, or tea. In addition to the tasty meal, there will be a special holiday treat for all who attend – the opportunity to take pictures with Santa Claus!

This family-friendly event is a wonderful way to support the high school’s wrestling team while getting into the holiday spirit. The funds raised will go towards team expenses, helping ensure the wrestlers have the resources they need for a successful season.

Tickets can be purchased in advance via Venmo (@PHHSWrestling), cash, or check. Payments can be dropped off at 241 Allentown Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054. The Venmo handle for the event is @PHHSWrestling.

For those interested in attending, you can reach out to Anna McGinty at (973) 610-817 or via email at PHHSWrestlingTeam@gmail.com for more information or to secure your tickets.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy breakfast, take a photo with Santa, and support the Parsippany Hills Wrestling Team in their upcoming season!

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Lions Club, in collaboration with the Livingston Lions Club, invites you to Diwali Utsav – a celebration that promises to be both a Fundraiser and a Fun-Raiser! On Saturday, November 9, from 3:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the Livingston Community Center at 204 Hillside Ave will be transformed into a vibrant hub of joy, philanthropy, and cultural celebration. Join us to embrace the spirit of Diwali, indulge in festive delicacies, and support causes that make a difference.

As a cornerstone of Lions Clubs International’s century-long commitment to service, this Diwali Utsav will fund four key initiatives: Childhood Cancer, Diabetes, Hunger, and Youth Programs. Every dollar raised is a step toward changing lives, making this festival a celebration with a purpose.

What to Expect:

• Ramp Walk to Fight Childhood Cancer – Strut your stuff for a cause, with every step supporting young fighters.
• Live Performances – Move to the beat and celebrate youth empowerment.
• Food Stalls – Delight in a feast that fuels our mission to end hunger.
• Dance for Diabetes – Garba Night – Unwind and dance, twirling in style to support diabetes awareness.

Sponsors
We’re grateful for our sponsors who help fuel our mission:

• Platinum Sponsor: Patel Brothers
• Gold Sponsors: Arya Dance Academy, C2 Education, Kumon of Livingston, Vishwanatham Chikoti
• Silver Sponsors: Kalaaz, Megraen Financial, Namaste Heritage

Admission
Tickets are $15.00 per person (Early Bird) and $25.00 per person after November 1. Children under 12 enjoy free admission. Seats are limited, so bring family and friends to experience Diwali in its truest sense – through celebration and service.

Register now at Diwali Utsav 2024 Registration or visit Parsippany Lions Club for more details.

This Diwali, come together with the Parsippany Lions Club to celebrate the festival of lights and make a meaningful impact in our communities!