Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46 during the beginning of COVID
NEW JERSEY — Governor Phil Murphy signed a new law this week that extends outdoor dining in New Jersey until November 2024.
“There are restaurants and bars and growing numbers of breweries that are still relying on the outdoor dining spaces they were allowed to create to get themselves back financially to where they were pre-pandemic,” Murphy said. “We want to see them succeed, period. We want them to continue serving their customers and employing their workers.”
Under the law, restaurants, bars, breweries and distilleries can use tents, umbrellas, tables and chairs outside their establishments to serve patrons.
It was something that Murphy said “started out of necessity” during the COVID-19 pandemic for establishments to survive. Many business owners have continued to offer outdoor dining.
Sen. Paul Sarlo (D – District 36) and Assemblyman Roy Freiman (D – District 16) are two of the five sponsors of the bill, S-2364. Not one lawmaker in Trenton voted against it.
“Outdoor dining is really cool,” Sarlo said. “It’s really cool to be outside, enjoy family and friends, enjoy a couple of drinks, enjoy some great food, and be part of the community.”
“I’m signing this bill today because of the ever-increasing numbers of patrons who have simply come to enjoy outdoor dining on its own, especially on a beautiful summer night or a bright weekend day,” Murphy said. “They’ve come to enjoy the new atmosphere, character and sense of place that outdoor dining has given to their neighborhoods and their downtowns and let me say this unequivocally, we want this to continue.”
The bill signing took place at Vesta Wood-Fired in East Rutherford, a restaurant that serves diners under a tent in the parking lot. The restaurant also received a grant from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, which was part of the state’s small business emergency assistance program to support New Jersey businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We have to as a state do what we can to help our small businesses,” Freiman said. “We got this legislation right.”
Before the bill signing, outdoor dining in New Jersey was set to expire in November 2022.
MORRIS COUNTY — The 200 Club of Morris County is proud to announce that it will be hosting a “First Responders Day,” on Saturday, September 24, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Whippany Park High School, 165 Whippany Road, Hanover.
This inaugural event will bring together first responders and families for a day of friendly competitions between Morris County public safety departments and residents.
Highlights of the day will include a corn hole and home run derby championship, food trucks and live entertainment from local bands.
“This inaugural First Responder Day on September 24 at Whippany Park High School is a way that The 200 Club of Morris County will say thank you to our dedicated first responders who protect us each and every day. We are inviting the general public to join us in this celebration which will include friendly competitions between first responders in Home Run Derby and Corn Hole. All attendees will enjoy live music, first responder demonstrations, food trucks, and activities for the children. Join us and come say thank you to our Morris County Heroes!” stated Robert D’Emidio, President of The 200 Club of Morris County.
Hanover Township Deputy Mayor and 200 Club Trustee, Tom “Ace” Gallagher had this to say about the 200 Club, “The vision and mission alone says it all, In its simplest form The 200 Club Of Morris County is here to support and help those of our heroes and their families that may unfortunately need it one day due to a tragic lose.
The 200 Club also recognizes those brave 1st responders that go above and beyond the call of duty during an emergency and sometimes put a life-saving mission above their own life and their own personal safety
God knows when we need Police, Fire, EMS, or OEM they are one phone call away. The 200 Club is there for when our first responders or their families may need a helping hand and The 200 Club of Morris County has been that way for the past 50 years”
The First Responders Day is open to the public and all are invited to attend.
able of Hope backpack distribution held at County College of Morris in 2021
MORRIS COUNTY — As parents start to plan for a new school year and address all the details involved, Table of Hope once again is helping to make things a bit easier with a free backpack distribution event at County College of Morris (CCM).
The Backpack Giveaway at CCM takes place Friday, August 19, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Parking Lot 1 on CCM’s campus at 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. Visitors are asked to use CCM’s Center Grove Road entrance.
CCM has hosted five previous events with Table of Hope to assist those in need. This latest distribution event will provide backpacks filled with school supplies – consisting of pencils, rulers, glue sticks, notebooks and more.
Shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic struck New Jersey, Table of Hope, a program run by the Spring Street Community Development Corporation, began operating weekly mobile food distribution programs in Morristown, Parsippany and Dover, along with other grocery supply events in Morris County communities. Its first event at CCM was held in June 2020. Serving as volunteers at that event were New Jersey First Lady Tammy Snyder Murphy, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, State Senator Anthony M. Bucco, County Commissioners John Krickus and Stephen Shaw and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.
To volunteer for the Backpack Giveaway or to make a donation, click here or email volunteer@springstreetcdc.org.
PARSIPPANY — On Friday, August 19, Senator Joe Pennacchio, Assemblyman Brian Bergen, Assemblyman Jay Webber and Mayor James Barberio will host the NJ MVC Mobile Unit. The visit by the Motor Vehicle Commission’s mobile unit will enable residents to access crucial motor vehicle services right here in Parsippany.
The unit will be stationed at the Parsippany Town Hall, 1001 Parsippany Boulevardand will run from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The MVC will give priority to the first 40 residents who are pre-registered, and all additional residents will be placed wait list should there be enough time. Those who are interested in Real ID should indicate such on the registration form and plan to arrive between 10:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.
Available services will include: driver’s license renewals, Real IDs (limitations), registration renewals, veteran/handicap/Purple Heart placards, permits, and non-driver IDs. Residents can also drop off their old license plates.
Because the Real ID process take additional time (approximately 30 minutes), the unit will only be able to assist limited number of people with obtaining Real IDs. Those who are interested in Real ID should indicate such at time of registration.
Customers will need their 6 Points of ID and must bring their social security card.
PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Call (973) 917-3420 or email asmwebber@njleg.org.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barbero proclaimed Sunday, July 31 to be Raoul Wallenberg Day. He encourages all citizens to foster the message of Courage and Compassion.
Raoul Gustaf Wallenberg (born August 4, 1912, disappeared January 17, 1945) was a Swedish architect, businessman, diplomat, and humanitarian. He is widely celebrated for saving tens of thousands of Jews in Nazi-occupied Hungary during the Holocaust from German Nazis and Hungarian Fascists during the later stages of World War II. While serving as Sweden’s special envoy in Budapest between July and December 1944, Wallenberg issued protective passports and sheltered Jews in buildings designated as Swedish territory.
During the ceremony Artist Edward Adams addressed the audience and explained how he was the fortunate artist chosen to fulfill the vision of the committee determined to pay homage to a man who helped save over 100,000 lives, Raoul Wallenberg. The design of the sculpture began as an idea and grew into a 12-inch model shown to the selection committee. Once commissioned, it matured into a thirteen foot fabricated bronze sculpture weighing over 1500 pounds. Today, Courage and Compassion is one of 31 Wallenberg monuments in twelve countries on five continents.
Raoul Wallenberg statue at the corner of Baldwin Road and Route 46 was originally dedicated in June 1998
“Over 20 years ago, it was the collaborative efforts of many people who possessed the foresight, wisdom, and dedication that made this sculpture become a reality; a sculpture that honors the deeds of a heroic man,” said Dr. Edward M. Adams.
Dr. Edward M. Adams
Adams stated “As I was imagining and designing this sculpture, I asked myself, “Do I design a sculpture that pays tribute to a particular man or do I design a sculpture that honors the human qualities that provoked him to accomplish extraordinary deeds? I chose to create a sculpture that pays tribute to the Courage and Compassion that inspired Raoul Wallenberg … a sculpture that celebrates the strength of this man’s character and the impact of his deeds. In truth, Raoul Wallenberg was an ordinary person. He was the same as you and I. Yet, he was compelled to act upon powerful qualities stirring inside his humanity, qualities that made a difference between life and death. In the face of indifference, in the midst of brutality, and standing in the center of profound suffering, Raoul Wallenberg confronted that suffering and acted to relieve it. So today we focus on a sculpture, and we honor a man who performed exceptional deeds. But in fact, we all stand in tribute to two human qualities inside each and every one of us, … Courage and Compassion. Are we any less challenged by the conditions in the world today? Are we less likely to be indifferent to the suffering of others? Are we any less vulnerable to be blamed, diminished of our dignity, or persecuted for our beliefs? I think the answer is no.”
This sculpture has value beyond aesthetics, it will be because every time you see it, play near it, drive by it, or read about it, you may feel uneasy inside. if you do, this uneasy feeling may be evoked by a question that poses a challenge inside your own heart and mind.
Dr. M. Ali Chaudry, President, Islamic Society of Basking Ridge
This question asks, “Do I have the courage to see and acknowledge suffering inside myself and others and if so, do I have the compassion to take small steps in everyday life or large steps like Raoul Wallenberg to relieve or eliminate that suffering?” The moment you ask that disquieted question and accept the challenge, this sculpture takes on meaning. It will do what only art can. It holds a mirror that reflects how deep our darkness can fall and how high our better angels can fly. For the sake of us all and generations to come, I hope the courage and compassion residing inside you, and me, and the persons standing all around us, … will prevail, said Adams.
MORRIS COUNTY — Today’s hottest profession is data analytics and at County College of Morris (CCM) students have multiple options to prepare for this in-demand, well-paying field in as little as six weeks or two semesters to gain immediate employment – regardless of their math ability.
“No prior experience in statistics or computer programming is needed in our programs, as our curriculum includes entry level courses in the most highly sought-after programming languages,” says Professor Kelly Fitzpatrick, who designed the college’s data analytics certificate offerings. “Our students are prepared for a wide range of career options, from data analysts and engineers, to data architects and statistical analysts, to report designers and business intelligent professionals, and more.”
The three options offered at the college are:
· A five-course, 16-credit Data Analytics Certificate, launched with a grant from the National Science Foundation in 2020, that can be earned in two semesters. Those credits can then be applied toward an associate degree. In this program, students learn R, Tableau, Python and SQL programing languages.
· A four-course, noncredit Data Visualization Certificate to prepare for the Tableau Specialist Desktop Exam, a highly recognized industry credential.
· A six-course, noncredit Data Analytics Certificate to learn R and Tableau programming, along with Business Analytics and Visual Basics in Excel.
The CCM programs have earned high recognition. Fitzpatrick was featured in Logical Operations’ Instructor Spotlight in May 2022 for her work on building the Data Visualization Certificate, which utilizes Logical Operations’ material. The college was selected as a community partner by the Educational Development Center and featured in its Mentoring New Data Pathways video, and its students have taken part in national conferences. Also, this past Spring Semester, several Data Analytics students crushed the American Statistical Association national Data Fest competition for community colleges, winning both Best in Show and Best Use of Statistical Analysis.
“Our collaborative, team-based learning environment allows students to work with others to analyze real-world data to solve problems and answer questions,” says Fitzpatrick. “All data science classes are taught using industry standard software in active learning environments, so students are prepared to pursue careers upon completion.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs in data science will grow by approximately 28 percent by 2026, equating to nearly 11.5 million new jobs. Such jobs also come with significant salaries. ZipRecruiter reports that the average starting salary in New Jersey is about $68,000 and experienced professionals earn an average of more than $110,000.
To learn about the credit program at CCM, click here. For information on the noncredit certificates offered through the college’s Center for Workforce Development, click here.
Also save the date for the Data Science Day the college will be holding on October 13 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners is inviting residents of Morris County and beyond to join them on Sunday, September 11, 6:00 p.m. to observe the 21th Anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
The annual remembrance ceremony will be held at the Morris County 9/11 Memorial on West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany-Troy Hills, with the keynote address to be provided by Fire Department of New York (FDNY) Firefighter Carl F. Asaro, Jr. He and three siblings joined the FDNY to honor their father, Carl Francis Asaro, Sr., one of 343 FDNY members killed while responding to the Twin Tower attacks.
<img class=”wp-image-15027 size-full” src=”https://morrisfocus.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Carl-Asaro-Jr..jpg” alt=”” width=”720″ height=”480″ /> Carl Asaro, Jr. carried a folded American flag during the 20th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony. His sister, Rebecca, is pictured behind him.
Carl, Jr., was the first of his siblings to join the FDNY after his father died. Carl Jr., now 34, was followed by his brother, Matthew, 33, and then his younger sister and brother — Rebecca, 30, and Marc, 28. Rebecca Asaro delivered the keynote address last year at Morris County’s 20th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony
“All of us were there when Rebecca spoke, the whole family, and I made a commitment to be there this year. It’s an honor to be a part of it,” said Carl, Jr.
Their father’s firehouse in Midtown Manhattan was the hardest hit on Sept. 11, 2001. Fifteen firefighters on Engine 54, Ladder 4, Battalion 9 – an entire shift – died as they responded to the devastation as it was unfolding at the Twin Towers.
Carl Jr. was 13 years old when he and his four siblings and mother, Heloiza, lost their father and husband.
“This is a very important remembrance ceremony for Morris County. We lost 64 of our friends and neighbors 21 years ago in the cowardly terrorist attacks in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington D.C. The entire community came together to build our 9/11 memorial in Parsippany. It is a memorial we have continued to maintain and restore over the years, and every year we come together at that location to remind the world, we will never forget,” said Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen.
The Morris County 9/11 Memorial on West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany-Troy Hills was constructed to pay tribute to all of the people killed in the attacks, nearly 3,000, with an emphasis on the 64 Morris County residents lost that day.
The names of all who died are engraved in ruby-colored paving stones set in the walkway surrounding the memorial, and the names of each of the 64 Morris County residents killed are additionally listed on individual, brass plates affixed atop of the memorial’s inner wall.
Circular in design, the memorial features three elevated pieces of steel from the World Trade Center, and a portion of the steel is within hand’s reach. The memorial also incorporates remnants of hijacked United Airlines Flight 93 that crashed in Shanksville, Pa., and soil from the Pentagon, the site of the crash of hijacked American Flight 77.
A pool of water encircles the memorial along with a walkway with benches for visitors to sit and reflect. The walkway also has four bridges leading across the water and toward the cemented, circle that encloses the steel.
As a plaque at the memorial explains, “The concrete blocks at the base of the steel represent the foundations of our lives: family, relationships and community. The recurring, circular forms on the site signify the continuance of life. The water surrounding the memorial symbolizes healing and rebirth. The island on which the steel beams stand and the connecting bridges suggest the blending of ethnic, cultural and spiritual differences. The flowers beneath the concrete blocks represent life and hope, reminding us that with the passing of time comes healing, peace and resolve.”
Seating at the memorial is limited, so the public is encouraged to bring lawn chairs to the outdoor observance. Parking will be available at the Morris County Department of Human Services building at 340 West Hanover Ave., on the Morris Township side of the street. Shuttle buses will be available to transport those in need the short distance to the memorial.
Councilman Justin Musella, Frank Neglia, Paul Carifi, Jr.
Council President Michael dePierro and Vice President Loretta Gragnani
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 2.
Regular Township Council Meetings will commence at 7:00 p.m. All meetings will be held on Tuesday evenings. All meetings will be held in the Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard, Parsippany. Formal action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for a meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours prior to the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to make a request for an auxiliary aid.
Mayor James R Barberio
Council President Michael J. dePierro
Council Vice-President Loretta Gragnani
Councilman Paul Carifi Jr.
Councilman Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella
MORRIS COuNTY — Assistant Morris County Administrator Deena Leary has been appointed Acting Administrator by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, placing her at the helm of county operations and ready to assume the post when long-time Administrator John Bonanni officially retires at year’s end.
Ms. Leary, who lives in Harding, began her career with Morris County as an intern in 1995 with the Division of Transportation Management. She worked through the ranks to become Director of Planning & Development in 2011, and was promoted in 2013 to lead a new combined department of Planning & Public Works before being appointed Assistant Morris County Administrator in August 2017.
“I know I speak for the entire board when I say there is no one else more suitable than Deena Leary to step in as our administrator. She literally has worked her way to the top, understanding first-hand the inner workings of our county government for almost 30 years. While John Bonanni will be sorely missed, Morris County could not be left in better hands when he leaves in the New Year,” said Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen.
The appointment, recommended by Mr. Bonanni, was made at last week’s Board of Commissioners meeting, where Commissioner Deborah Smith noted Ms. Leary had served as acting administrator recently when Mr. Bonanni was on medical leave.
“She did a phenomenal job. The beat kept going, and it was a smooth transition,” said Commissioner Smith. “I just want to commend her on her excellent work ethic and I know she will be an excellent leader for the county — and I also point out, as a diversity factor, she is the first female administrator in Morris County. I think that is terrific also.”
Bonanni, who plans to retire after the New Year, commended the board for Ms. Leary’s appointment.
“I want to congratulate Deena, but equally important, I want to thank this governing body for not making positions around here political, but functional – and Deena is a perfect example of that. This governing body looks at the qualifications of people, and I thank you for that,” said Bonanni.
Commissioner Douglas Cabana, who joined the board in 1997 and remains the longest serving Commissioner still on the board, cited Ms. Leary’s many years in leadership roles within county government.
“I’ve known Deena for many years, and she has the respect of local officials everywhere. She is usually found working well past the time most others have gone home for the day trying to solve problems and get things done for the residents of Morris County. She has been a go-to person for many of our local officials and is always deeply involved in developing our biggest projects, most recently our COVID-19 response and our Small Business Grant Program. We are fortunate to have her with us and willing to step into this key position,” said Commissioner Cabana.
Ms. Leary earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Rutgers University in 2018. Her undergraduate degree from Susquehanna University is in Environmental Science and Economics.
She became certified through the American Institute of Certified Planners in 2008 and has been a licensed Professional Planner in New Jersey since 2009.
Ms. Leary grew up and spent most of her life in Jefferson Township and became a Harding Township resident in 2018.
PARSIPPANY — Zachary Wilken has been named to the Champlain College President’s List for achieving a grade point average of 4.0 or higher for the spring semester.
Founded in 1878, Champlain College is a small, not-for-profit, private college in Burlington, Vermont, with additional campuses in Montreal, Canada, and Dublin, Ireland. From its beautiful campus overlooking Lake Champlain, the College offers an innovative academic experience and more than 100 residential and online programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates. Champlain’s distinctive career-driven approach to higher education embodies the notion that true learning occurs when information and experience come together to create knowledge.
For the sixth year in a row, Champlain was named a “Most Innovative School” in the North by U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Colleges” rankings, and was listed among The Princeton Review’s “The Best 387 Colleges” in 2022.
Champlain is also featured in the 2021 Fiske Guide to Colleges as one of the “best and most interesting schools” in the United States, Canada, and Great Britain and was recognized as a 2020 College of Distinction for its “Engagement, Teaching, Community, and Outcomes.” For more information, click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling presented the Morris County Surrogate’s 2021 Annual Report to the Morris County Commissioners recently.
The 2021 Annual report is the second of its kind ever for the Surrogate’s Office. “The year 2021, like 2020, was extraordinary with significant challenges; however, our team was able to accomplish our goals and exceed expectations as we introduced new services using technology to provide the people we serve with easy and convenient access to better serve their needs,” said Surrogate Darling.
This annual report highlights key accomplishments for the past year including new initiatives and financial results which defray County taxes. The Surrogate recognizes her team for their outstanding work in serving the residents of Morris County. Some highlights include the introduction of “The Personal Record” booklet for Morris County citizens, designed to help organize and record important personal information that may serve as a roadmap for family members in the event of an emergency, the service of taking credit cards as a form of payment and the ability to make an appointment on the Surrogate’s website. Surrogate Darling also serves as the Surrogate’s Section Chief and Secretary of the Constitutional Officers Association of New Jersey (COANJ).
The Surrogate also has continued her community outreach initiative, making herself available to talk with community organizations and businesses across Morris County. To book a speaking engagement or for a copy of the 2021 Annual Report contact the Morris County Surrogate at Surrogate@co.morris.nj.us.
The 2021 Annual Report is also available in downloadable format at the Surrogate’s website by clicking here.
MORRIS COUNTY — After a two week jury trial, a Ismael Lorenzo, Jr., 36, was convicted Thursday on Possession of a Weapon While Committing Certain Drug Crimes, Money Laundering, Possession With Intent to Distribute Controlled Dangerous Substances, and in a bifurcated proceeding following the jury’s verdict on the first three counts, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon by a Convicted Felon, in a case brought by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. Senior Assistant Prosecutor Erin Callahan and Assistant Prosecutor Matthew Kelly represented the State at trial before the Honorable Stephen J. Taylor.
The jury returned the guilty verdicts on July 28, after deliberating for approximately four hours. Lorenzo, Jr., remained in custody after the verdicts were announced and will be sentenced on August 25.
Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood and Chief of Detectives Chris Kimker thanked the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office’s Special Enforcement Unit/Narcotics Task Force, the New Jersey State Police, the Parsippany-Troy Hill Police Department, the Chatham Township Police Department, and the Rockaway Township Police Department for supplying personnel to the task force that participated in this investigation and prosecution. The Office also thanks the Morris County Sheriff’s Office’s K9 Unit, the Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team, and the Crime Scene Investigations Unit, whose efforts contributed to this successful prosecution.
The front entrance of Modera Parsippany by Mill Creek, at the grand opening. The complex is now The Mark
PARSIPPANY — The Mark Parsippany, 212-unit, four-story apartment community at 1715 Route 46 sold for $82.5 million, according to JLL Capital Markets, which represented the seller.
At The Mark Parsippany the rents aren’t cheap — $2,100 to $3,365 per month. A 451 square foot studio, with one bath rents for $2,100 to $2,120 per month; a one bedroom and one bath, 795 sq. ft., rents for $2,600 to $2,650; Two bedroom, two bath, 920 square foot units range from $2,845 to $2,915 per month.
2 Bed/2 Bath-C; $2,845 – $2,915 / month. 2 bed, 2 bath; 920 sq ft. Cable TV ready; Dishwasher; High-speed internet ready; Range; Refrigerator; Washer/dryer; Air conditioning; Patio/balcony
“Each unit offers stainless steel appliance packages, wood-look plank flooring, luxurious walk-in showers, chef-inspired kitchens outfitted with quartz countertops and elegant islands, high-end custom cabinetry, keyless entry and full-size washers and dryers,” said Tuesday’s announcement from JLL Capital Markets.
The reviews we found are all five star. One anonymous renter said “I recently moved in. I had an overall great experience. John was very helpful with accommodating all of my needs for moving in, and answered all of my emails/questions promptly. Everything went very smoothly, and I’m excited to be at The Mark.”
Another review by Brittany said “A great place to live! Decent quality appliances, fixtures, etc. Staff are all great and maintenance is very fast to respond. Walking distance park next door. Walls are pretty thick – we rarely hear the baby or dog next door, but we can often hear our upstairs and downstairs neighbors. If your apartment faces the courtyard, you’ll hear music and anyone outside, but it’s not bad especially if you don’t mind some background noise. No dog park and people drive really fast in the parking lot but given the park next door, not bad. Pool and lounge are pretty cool! Gym is nice. No pests of any kind in the apartment. Electric bill for 1000 square feet averages $80 a month and we use the heat and air significantly, no gas. Prices have gone up a lot since we moved in, but our rent has only gone up a bit each year. Very close to a bus stop, too. Has issues with package thieves, no cameras, but there is a local Amazon locker at Whole Foods we use. Overall we recommend this apartment! It’s a good find for around here. You won’t find this nice for any cheaper.”
The complex originally opened as Modera Parsippany opened in spring of 2018 was owned by Mill Creek Residential. In 2020 Mill Creek Residential sold the property to the joint venture of Harbor Group International and Maya Capital. The partnership reportedly paid $68 million for the complex.
To read more about Modera:
Construction is underway at Modera luxury apartments. Click here.
Modera luxury apartments coming to Parsippany. Click here.
Mill Creek Celebrates Opening of Modera Parsippany. Click here.
Shrimp with garlic sauce, a favorite at Bill & Harry Chinese Cuisine
MORRIS COUNTY — As usual, my hungry foodie group and I were in search mode for our next visit to one of the area’s great arrays of ethnic eateries. The consensus led us to the highly rated and well respected, Bill & Harry Chinese Cuisine in East Hanover. This small, unassuming, storefront, with a simple sign, is situated right on Route 10 East in one of those small highway strip malls which are scattered throughout New Jersey, right next to McDonald’s. I suggest you stay alert, or you might drive right by it without even noticing, and that would be a shame because you would be missing out on some of the best ethnic Chinese food in Morris County, if not in all of New Jersey.
Bill & Harry Chinese Cuisine is located at 319 Route 10 East, East Hanover
Considering the large population of people of Chinese descent in our area, not to forget the significant number of Chinese American commuters who work in and pass through our area on a regular basis, it seems only logical that it would not prove difficult to find some outstanding Chinese eateries. In Parsippany alone, the Chinese population numbers approximately 7 percent, the highest of any Morris County municipality. Bill & Harry fits the bill as one of those eateries. Originally opening in 1985 in Livingston, and shortly thereafter moving to East Hanover, two Chinese gentleman, who used their Americanized names, Bill, and Harry, created one of Morris County’s most admired authentic Chinese cuisine locations. Jason Long, the personable, current, and longtime proprietor was kind enough to sit down with me and discuss the establishments history. You cannot help but love these small, strip mall, independently and family-owned gems. New Jersey would not be New Jersey without them. And, in case you were wondering, this restaurant is not affiliated with the Bill & Harry’s in West Orange, Maplewood, or Livingston.
Bill & Harry Chinese Cuisine is located at 319 Route 10 East, East Hanover
A cute, clean, bright, simple, pleasant, low-key ambiance greets you as you enter the restaurant. We were warmly welcomed by Mr. Long and offered a table of our choice, as our prompt and friendly servers immediately addressed our needs. About fifteen tables were nicely spaced throughout the interior, covered neatly with white linen tablecloths, silverware, and embroidered red rose cloth napkins carefully placed at every seating. The interior is bright, warm, and well-lit with natural lighting for the daytime, and track lighting for the evening. The painted walls are a calming white color, adding to the sense of brightness, with simulated wood tile floors, and limited artwork, (original lithograph prints from the original Bill & Harry), adorning the walls, along with an Asian-themed wooden partition separating the dining room from the kitchen area. Light music plays in the background all creating a very casual, comfortable, and relaxing environment.
Scallion Pancakes
In fact, Bill and Harry have been recognized as one of the best Chinese restaurants in New Jersey by such notable publications as the New York Times, Daily Record, and NJ.com; as well as receiving accolades from several well-respected food critics, including northjersey.com’s Chinese Food Crawl, and the Star Ledger’s Peter Genovese.
The large, double-sided, paper menu is quite extensive and is divided into an array of selections of appetizers, soups, delectable meat, chicken, and seafood entrees, along with plenty of noodle and rice dishes. Hot and spicy selections are noted with a star, but they will be happy to alter your dish to your taste. There is also the option to choose from a section called Bill and Harry’s Gourmet, where you will find a tantalizing choice of traditional and authentic Chinese specialties, including a whole or half Peking Duck, and it is not necessary to order this in advance.
Egg Rolls
The menu also offers Sizzling Platters, Spa Platters (Steamed and Vegetable dishes), as well as other Side Orders. The Lunch Menu (Monday to Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.) also looked very appealing and reasonable but we were told it was only available as a takeout only option. Not for us that day, but something to consider. Finally, there is the Party Package (Take Out Only) which provides an ample meal for ten people at $150.00. If I did not mention it, Bill & Harry is BYOB.
Orange Chicken
Our group started with Hot and Sour Soup, along with a few shared appetizers, including Egg Rolls, Scallion Pancakes, and Fried Pork Dumplings. The generously sized, well filled Egg rolls were some of the tastiest I have had in quite some time. These deep-fried, savory, treats were a mouth-watering delight. The nicely seasoned, aromatic, brothy, Hot and Sour soup looked and smelled delicious. Our ample Scallion Pancake was crispy and flakey, and received rave reviews from the group. The contrasting taste and texture of our traditional well stuffed, and fluffy Fried Pork Dumplings made for the perfect selection for our shared appetizers. I would be remiss if I did not mention the accompanying choice of brown or white fluffy rice, and the assorted Duck, Mustard, and Hot Oil dipping sauces that perfectly complemented each appetizer. Personally, I would have liked to have tried their Barbequed Spareribs, but there were still entrees to be devoured, and I can only eat so much. So many great choices, next time!
Lake Tung Ting Shrimp
For an entrée, I went with the Lake Tung Ting Shrimp (jumbo shrimp, stir-fried with broccoli, snow peas, baby corn, and red peppers, in white wine sauce). This is one of their highly-rated dishes online and it lived up to expectations. A generous amount of large, and I mean large, shrimp, stir-fried together with fresh, crispy, and crunchy vegetables, in a wine sauce. Tasty as it sounds! The shrimp were firm, yet had a soft texture, cooked al dente. Perfectly prepared, delicious dish, and it could not have been fresher tasting! I would certainly order this again over and over.
Pork DumplingsHot and Sour Soup
Others in the group decided on Hot Spicy Jumbo Shrimp (jumbo shrimp, stir-fried with the chef’s hot, spicy red sauce, chopped fresh onions, and garnished with fresh broccoli). Orange Flavored Chicken, which can also be ordered with beef or shrimp (choice is deep fried and sauteed, with orange flavored, tangy brown sauce, and garnished with fresh broccoli. Hunan Pork (sliced pork, sauteed with seasonal vegetables in a hot spicy brown sauce). Beef Szechuan Style (sliced beef, sauteed with shredded carrots, celery, and scallions, in a hot spicy sauce), and finally Shrimp with Garlic Sauce (jumbo shrimp, stir-fried with broccoli, water chestnuts, green & red peppers, in a garlic flavored chili brown sauce. For Dessert, each person at our table received a Fortune Cookie. The consensus was that everyone thoroughly enjoyed all their selections.
We all left with our stomachs full, satisfied, and with a smile on our faces. Another great dining experience right here in our own backyard. If you have not been to Bill and Harry Chinese Cuisine, I would recommend putting it on your calendar. I am confident you will enjoy it as much as I did. Thank you to Jason Long, and his staff, for their wonderful hospitality.
Bill & Harry Chinese Cuisine is located at 319 Route 10 East, East Hanover, NJ 07936 (Next to McDonald’s) Phone: (973) 887-6001. www.BillandHarrytRt10.com
Dine In – Take Out – Delivery (Grubhub) – BYOB. Off Road Private Parking Lot (Front and Rear). Office & Home Party Catering
Mark your calendars and get ready to be a part of a grand celebration! Parsippany’s Fall Festival is back
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills announced the “19th Annual Fall Festival” will take place this year on Sunday, September 25 from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 p.m. on North Beverwyck Road.
The town-wide celebration not only provides an opportunity to highlight township programs, services, organizations and businesses, but also encourages community spirit.
The generosity of the business community has played a large role in the success of the past festivals. For those businesses and organizations wanting to participate click here to register. Please be sure to submit your forms as soon as possible.
Parsippany’s 19th Annual Fall Festival promises to be one of the most successful festivals yet. There will be entertainment, rides, and other attractions to help bring out people to the event.
The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is offering spaces on a first come first serve basis. Display spaces vary depending on location and intended use. Vendors that are selling food will be distributed along the entire area with priority given to local food vendors and local organizations selling food. North Beverwyck Road merchants have first preference on the space in front of their establishments as long as a completed registration form and the required fee are received at the Recreation Department by September 15.
For registration for non-profits and other groups click here
PARSIPPANY — Seven candidates have filed to run for three available seats on the Parsippany-Troy Hills School District’s Board of Education, according to the Morris County Clerk’s Office.
The following individuals have submitted their nominating petition to the Morris County Clerk:
Kendra Von Achen – Returning Member (term expires 12/31/2022)
Andrew Choffo – Returning Member (term expires 12/31/2022)
Alison C. Cogan – Returning Member (term expires 12/31/2022)
Michelle Shappell
Jack S. Raia
Yvonne Ferise
Falgun Bakhtarwala
The election for each seat will be held on November 8, 2022. Each seat will be held for three years.
The Board of Education is made up of nine members who are elected by registered voters of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township.
Members are elected to three-year terms. The Board President and Vice-President are elected by the majority vote of their fellow Board members.
Requirements for candidates running for the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education candidates are:
To Become a member of a local board of education in New Jersey, you must:
Be able to read and write
Hold citizenship and one year’s residency in the school district
Have no interest in any contract with, or claim against, the board
Not hold office as mayor or member of the municipal governing body
Be registered to vote in the district and not be disqualified as a voter under N.J.S.A. 19:4-1
Board members must undergo criminal history record checks through the New Jersey Department of Education within 30 days of election or appointment.
Serving on a School Board (From NJSBA)
As one member of the school board team, you will be expected to cooperate with administrators, educators and the community in order to fulfill certain basic responsibilities:
Providing responsible citizen leadership in determining community goals for public education.
Developing a philosophy of education that will become the basis for sound educational decisions on a wide range of issues.
Developing written operation policies to serve as guidelines for action and decision making.
Developing a community understanding of educational issues and school policies through the maintenance of effective communications systems.
Providing adequate financing for the present needs and future plans of the district.
Establishing conditions of the recruitment and evaluation of an excellent professional staff.
Evaluating the educational program of the schools in order to better meet the needs of the students.
Ensuring a quality education for all students by providing adequate facilities and equipment.
Providing the student services necessary for all the pupils of the district.
Engaging in self-improvement and inservice training programs for the purpose of providing intelligent, well-informed leadership.
You should also:
Understand that your responsibility is not to administer the schools, but to work with the board to see that the schools are well run.
Understand that education today is extremely complex.
Listen to opposing views and be able to defend the board’s philosophy and goals.
Be willing to invest the many hours necessary to meet your responsibilities.
Serve out of a sincere desire to benefit the community rather than for personal glory or to carry out personal objectives.
Bear in mind that, as a state official, you have a responsibility to all the children in the state, not solely to those in the local district.
PARSIPPANY — Turned out to be a nice evening, despite the brutal heat, for the Parsippany Republican Committee BBQ/Meeting at Veterans Memorial Park Pavilion. The meeting/BBQ was a great idea that will help set the groundwork for November election. It was a great turnout with plenty of burgers, dogs, sausage, etc. to keep everyone happy. Outstanding job by the grill master, Anthony DeSpirito.
Committee members gather for the bbq/meetingCommittee members gather for the bbq/meetingJustin Musella and Dee DePierroCommittee members gather for the bbq/meeting
During the meeting, the new chairwoman, Dee DePierro discussed some of her initiatives and introduced the Vice Chair, Justin Musella. She also appointed the Parliamentarian, BettyLou DeCroce.
The members of the Parsippany Republican Committee are elected to serve the district in which they live.
The Parsippany Republican Committee, through strong leadership, moral strength, and community involvement, strives to improve the overall quality of life for all of Parsippany’s residents.
“It was a pleasure to welcome the new Chair of the Parsippany Municipal Republican Committee, Dee DePierro, at our picnic today. I am honored to have been chosen to join you as Vice-Chair. Thank you to everybody who helped to make today a success,” said Justin Musella.
Raoul Gustaf Wallenberg (born August 4, 1912, disappeared January 17, 1945) was a Swedish architect, businessman, diplomat, and humanitarian. He is widely celebrated for saving tens of thousands of Jews in Nazi-occupied Hungary during the Holocaust from German Nazis and Hungarian Fascists during the later stages of World War II. While serving as Sweden’s special envoy in Budapest between July and December 1944, Wallenberg issued protective passports and sheltered Jews in buildings designated as Swedish territory.
