PARSIPPANY — Dr. Trivikrama Reddy, an Adjunct Professor at New Jersey Institute of Technology, Mechanical Engineering Department, at NJIT received “NJIT Excellence in Teaching Award” for 2021.
He teaches Machine Design, Stress Analysis, Mechanical system Design, and various other Mechanical Engineering courses at NJIT.
He is a top and highly rated professor from NJIT on his ranking on Rate My Professor. Click here to view.
In addition to teaching Dr. Trivikrama Reddy is a Staff Engineer in Research and Development Department working for Becton Dickinson Company, Franklin Lakes.
He designs and develops various drug delivery medical devices. He holds about seven patents for his designs. Please find attached his Patent information.
MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette today announced the launch of the state’s Water Infrastructure Investment Plan. This innovative effort aims to better understand and resolve water infrastructure challenges plaguing New Jersey communities and utilities through short- and long-term investments that will create good-paying jobs while delivering safe, reliable drinking water, reducing flooding, and improving the quality of New Jersey’s waterways.
Over the next three months, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank (I-Bank) will engage with a broad array of stakeholders in developing the Water Infrastructure Investment Plan (WIIP) parameters for the first of a five-year period. Direct engagement with communities and utilities about their water needs and challenges will enable DEP to set project priorities and establish the funding packages that will best support water system operators in upgrading drinking water, stormwater and wastewater infrastructure throughout the state.
The WIIP will be fueled by new federal funding under the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and continuing state appropriations championed by Governor Phil Murphy and the New Jersey Legislature.
“This Water Infrastructure Investment Plan reaffirms our commitment to modernize New Jersey’s aging water infrastructure and deliver safe drinking water to our residents,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “This once-in-a-generation opportunity allows New Jerseyans to participate in the planning process to shape and better their communities through these investments. I am grateful for the work of President Biden and our Congressional delegation to ensure that New Jersey receives billions of dollars for these critical water infrastructure projects while advancing environmental justice.”
DEP Commissioner LaTourette
“By coming together to shape the Wastewater Infrastructure Investment Plan, we can better deliver what New Jersey residents deserve and expect: safe drinking water when they turn on the tap, streets, and businesses not so easily overcome with floodwaters, and waterways that are clean and vibrant,” said DEP Commissioner LaTourette. “This is our moment to make once-in-a-generation investments that will create jobs improving our public and environmental health while motivating long-term term growth in communities that our infrastructure investments will uplift and support. My DEP colleagues and I are inviting every New Jersey community and water utility to join us in this exciting work.”
“Investing in New Jersey’s water infrastructure supports healthy, thriving communities while protecting the environment and creating good-paying jobs that cannot be outsourced,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides a historic opportunity to Build a Better America, especially for overburdened and underserved communities. The law provides the largest ever investment in water and I applaud Governor Murphy’s leadership in putting these dollars to work where they’re needed most. EPA encourages all communities to invest in long-term health protections through water infrastructure, and we look forward to continuing a strong partnership with New Jersey and all states to get this right.”
U.S. Senator Cory Booker.
“Modernizing New Jersey’s aging water infrastructure is not only critical to protecting the health of our families and our environment, but it also creates jobs and helps lay the foundation for future economic growth,” said U.S. Senator Cory Booker. “I was proud to support the bipartisan infrastructure bill that delivered this critical funding and applaud Governor Murphy and Commissioner LaTourette for their commitment to investing in New Jersey communities.”
“This historic investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help strengthen and modernize our state’s water infrastructure so that we can create new, good-paying jobs, ensure we are delivering safe drinking water to every home, and protect our coastal communities from the climate crisis,” said 6th District U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone. “As Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, I fought to ensure that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provided significant funding to remove toxic lead service lines and clean up PFAS contamination from our water. I look forward to seeing this in action as we work together to bolster economic growth and make sure that every household can trust the water coming from the tap.”
District U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr.
“Our communities here in New Jersey and across America will benefit tremendously from upgraded water infrastructure,” said 9th District U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. “For too long, outdated sewer and drinking water systems have posed a risk to public health and safety. Today’s massive investment will help our kids access clean and safe drinking water, improve the quality of our rivers, streams, and beaches, create union jobs in New Jersey and help alleviate what is an expensive burden on our local governments. This is all thanks to a Democratic Congress and Biden Administration focusing on bringing our nation’s water systems into the 21st century. I look forward to working with DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette and Governor Phil Murphy to ensure these federal funds will reach the intended communities and support upgrading our water infrastructure, especially in North Jersey. These resources will be put to good use to make our communities more resilient, bolster the Biden Boom. This environmental investment is incredible news for New Jersey and for our nation.”
Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill
“The bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is bringing federal dollars back to New Jersey and putting them directly to work in our communities,” said 11th District U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill. “Critical water infrastructure concerns around flooding, harmful algal bloom remediation, clean drinking water, and PFAS are top of mind for local officials in my district, and I appreciate that the NJDEP and the Governor have visited our communities with me to hear these concerns as well and are continuing this stakeholder engagement with the process outlined today. I look forward to offering any support I can to the development of the Water Infrastructure Investment Plan being launched today to ensure we translate this law into real, tangible change for New Jersey families, which will go an incredibly long way in ensuring that our region is safer and more resilient for decades to come.”
“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill is a big win for New Jersey, and I am proud to have played a key role in helping shape and pass this once-in-a-generation legislation. This investment will directly make progress on the concerns that I regularly hear from parents — that they are concerned about lead and other forever chemicals in their children’s drinking water. We cannot afford to take these risks with our children and students — the stakes are simply too high,” said 5th District U.S. Rep Josh Gottheimer. “Now, thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, we will finally have the critical resources we need to help ensure that we have clean drinking water all across our state.”
“I’m proud to have worked on and passed the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that is now funding these vital clean water projects that will bring relief to families across New Jersey said 3rd District U.S. Rep. Andy Kim. “My family and my neighbors know the challenge of being unable to trust the safety of the water coming out of the faucet. From lead pipe replacement to eliminating PFAS chemicals from our drinking water, I’m thrilled to see these funding opportunities coming together quickly. Not only will the projects create good paying local jobs, but they will secure our state’s water infrastructure, so families know the water coming into their home is safe.”
“My community’s way of life depends on efficient and effective water infrastructure,” said 2nd District U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew. “It is time for New Jersey and the United States to invest in critical infrastructure like water treatment and stormwater management systems. I will do everything I can to make sure we strengthen South Jersey through these investments.”
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is the single largest investment in our nation’s water infrastructure ever, providing New Jersey with $169 million this year for drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. This is the first of five years of investment through the law.
Further supported by corollary state investments, these funds will spur the construction of projects that better protect drinking water supplies, ensure the delivery of clean drinking water to all New Jersey communities, and reduce the risk of exposure to lead and synthetic chemicals that can impact the safety of our drinking water. The funding will also improve our communities resilience in the face of increasing precipitation, extreme weather, and flooding by right-sizing stormwater infrastructure. The funding will also improve the quality of New Jersey’s lakes, rivers, and streams through upgrades to wastewater infrastructure, including long-deferred improvements to combined sewer overflow systems, the pollution from which disproportionately impacts underserved communities.”
This funding will support federal and state priorities to help communities replace lead-containing water service lines, reduce pollution of waterways from combined sewer systems, harden critical infrastructure to climate change, adapt and modernize stormwater management systems to a changing climate, improve wastewater treatment plants and their collection systems, and help public water suppliers to install treatment systems to address threats from emerging contaminants such as per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
“This year’s budget included record investments in our communities, few of which will have a more profound impact on the people of this state and the places they call home,” said State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio. “Treasury stands ready to work with DEP to facilitate the funding needed to help our partners in local government deliver clean, safe drinking water, bolster our stormwater infrastructure, and improve our resiliency in the face of ever-increasing storm severity.”
“The quality of one’s water should never be a consequence of their location, vocation, or pigmentation. At a time where there is such division in our direction in terms of voting rights, police reform, student loan debt cancellation, and more, it’s refreshing that water can be a conduit for a consensus, said NJSC NAACP Environmental & Climate Justice Chairman Marcus Sibley. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is a declaration that water, free of lead and pfas is a right and an acknowledgment that until now far too many Americans have been wronged. This is a tremendous step towards us truly becoming a great country, for all.”
“Everyone – regardless of their income level or socioeconomic status – deserves the right to have access to clean drinking water,” said 7th Legislative District Senator Troy Singleton. “That is why over the past several years, I have worked tirelessly with my legislative colleagues and the Governor to promote environmental justice and upgrade, modernize and safeguard New Jersey’s water infrastructure. It is our hope that through the adoption of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, New Jersey will make significant investments in our state’s water infrastructure so every one of our residents will have access to safe drinking water.”
“For far too long, we have seen a critical need for investment in water infrastructure across the country,” said State Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz. “When considering the importance of collaborative planning and essential investment, it’s worth amplifying the example that our state set through supportive efforts on every level to aid Newark’s robust lead replacement line program. I applaud federal leadership for delivering on an over $50 billion investment for a nationwide overhaul of outdated and deteriorating service lines.”
“It’s no secret that New Jersey’s water infrastructure is outdated,” said 14th Legislative District State Senator Linda R. Greenstein. “We’ve taken great strides in the last few years to invest in our drinking and stormwater infrastructure, reduce exposure to lead and other pollutants, and protect the many bodies of water in this coastal state. But this cannot be done without a strong partnership between the federal government, the State, and the local communities impacted most. With the help of the Water Infrastructure Investment Plan, we will be able to replace lead service lines throughout the state, invest in the longevity of our water infrastructure, and ensure that drinking water will be safe for all New Jerseyans for decades to come.”
“Clean water is an essential right for every New Jerseyan. From replacing lead service lines to restoring our coastal estuaries, the BIL will make the most significant investment in water infrastructure in American history,” said 18th Legislative District Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak. “Our communities must be made safer and healthier by eliminating hazards like PFAs and controlling stormwater runoff. We are in a great position to leverage BIL funds through the NJ Infrastructure Bank, an essential component of the Water Infrastructure Investment Plan.”
The DEP is kicking off the WIIP development effort with a series of stakeholder sessions beginning January 24 that will gather input from interested parties on the broad goals of WIIP. The sessions will help the DEP develop criteria for prioritizing drinking water and clean water infrastructure projects to be funded through an initial investment of $169 million provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The process will culminate in the adoption of a WIIP for State Fiscal Year 2023/Federal Fiscal Year 2022.
For a series of introductory videos and other information click here.
The trillion-dollar Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, known more commonly as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, was signed by President Biden on November 15. This sweeping legislation provides federal funds to rebuild America’s roads, bridges, railroads, and water infrastructure while advancing environmental justice and tackling climate change – core principals of the Murphy Administration.
The DEP and the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank (I-Bank) work closely on innovative funding programs that provide low-interest but high-impact options for local communities and utilities to meet their drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater infrastructure needs. In Governor Murphy’s first term, the DEP/I-Bank program facilitated more than $2 billion in water infrastructure projects. This highly successful effort has made more than $7.6 billion in investments possible since 1987, saving ratepayers $2.76 billion in financing costs.
“This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for communities to invest in the health and economic well-being of their constituents for years to come,” said David Zimmer, Executive Director of the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank. “With the influx of federal funds into the DEP over the next five years combined with what are still historically low-interest rates, there has never been a better time for stakeholders to get engaged, to provide feedback on the State’s plans for these funds, and to participate in the DEP/I-Bank Financing Program. We look forward to working with our partners at the DEP to facilitate these informative WIIP sessions.”
“While a meaningful increase in low-cost financing for water infrastructure projects across New Jersey will be available shortly, strategic investment of new and existing funds is necessary given the overwhelming needs our communities have,” said Dan Kennedy, Senior Director for Environmental and Utility Operations with the Utility and Transportation Contractors Association. “New Jersey’s State Revolving Funds have evolved into a national model for success and are built to efficiently deliver from an administrative perspective. That said, DEP is rightly opening opportunities for the public to provide input on priorities so that this generational investment opportunity in clean water construction is targeted to projects and places that need it the most. I encourage all that have a stake in seeing our water infrastructure assets upgraded to meet the needs of the future to engage through these upcoming meetings and other public comment opportunities with clear, actionable input for DEP to consider.”
“This new funding has the potential to help every community turn the corner on intractable obstacles to affordable, safe drinking water, flood protection, and clean waterways,” said New Jersey Future Managing Director of Water and Policy Chris Sturm. “We urge all water stakeholders to get involved with the DEP’s Water Infrastructure Investment Plan and offer practical solutions to leverage funds, lower costs, and prioritize environmental justice. Ensuring clean water for all New Jerseyans is everyone’s responsibility, and we all have a stake in a healthier future.”
For 2022—the first of five allotments through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – New Jersey will receive:
$73.3 million for any eligible Clean Water State Revolving Fund project
$30.6 million for any eligible Drinking Water State Revolving Fund project
$48.3 million to address drinking water lead service line replacements
$12.9 million to address contaminants of emerging concern, such as PFAS in drinking water
$3.8 million to address contaminants of emerging concern in wastewater.
During the forthcoming engagement sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to share their water infrastructure needs and challenges and shape WIIP, criteria including project priority rankings, affordability criteria, funding packages, and project types that qualify for principal forgiveness. The sessions will also include discussions on the allocation of principal forgiveness and funding packages to address lead, PFAS, climate change, and sea-level rise.
The session schedule is as follows:
Elected officials, including mayors and county officials, on January 24 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Register here
Potential applicants, professional organizations, and other agencies, January 24, from 1:00 p.m. to 3;00 p.m. Register Here
Environmental Justice advocates, non-governmental organizations, and interested members of the public, January 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Register Here
The following is a letter to the editor submitted by the Parsippany-Troy Hills Education Association’s executive board, on behalf of its members.
An open letter to the Parsippany-Troy Hills community:
After much deliberation, the members of the Parsippany Troy-Hills Education Association (PTHEA) have decided to break their silence on the status of negotiations with the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education. The PTHEA has been working under an expired agreement since July 2021. For months, we chose to refrain from any public statements, as well as to exercise our right to pressure the Board and engage in any job actions, in the hopes that we could bargain amicably and successfully. PTHEA members understand the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, and we felt that all energies would be best served by strengthening the labor-management relationship as we returned to in-person instruction. We believe it takes all stakeholders to ensure a positive, successful educational experience for our students.
The PTHEA held out hope that the Board believed this, too. In an effort to have contract talks be one less stressor for all, the PTHEA in late 2020 offered the Board a full year of labor peace — with no contract demands or changes — and a salary adjustment at the current county average. While there were certainly contractual items we also wanted to address, PTHEA members were dedicated to maintaining a positive relationship, so we may all concentrate on doing the job we loved as we navigated the “new normal.” Unfortunately, the Board didn’t feel the same way: They delayed the first meeting by nearly three months beyond what is normal, rejected our one-year offer, and introduced a slate of contractual demands that go far and above what any of us have seen in decades.
To say we were disappointed is an understatement. For the last 18 months, we have done everything possible to maintain the quality educational experience our community has come to expect. However, we must insist that Board recognize our role in doing so. Across the state and throughout the nation, there is an educator shortage, which has only been compounded by the ongoing pandemic. If we are going to continue to have the best public schools in the nation, we must offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract and retain the best educators. This profession is rife with challenges and — once this pandemic is finally behind us — there are going to be additional obstacles ahead, and it will take the hard work of public school educators to maintain stability for all. Instead of publicly praising us while privately scoffing at our attempts to secure a contract that actually acknowledges our value to this school district, it’s time for the Parsippany Troy-Hills Board to come to the table with reasonable proposals. No more delays; no more games—we want their actions to finally support their words.
Until this is resolved, please be assured that all PTHEA members are committed to providing Parsippany Troy Hills’s students with nothing less than our best. In fact, we go above and beyond our contractual responsibilities for the students and school community every single day. However, we are equally as committed to standing up and demanding a fair and equitable settlement, and we hope you join us in that effort and call on the Board to offer one. Together, we can keep Parsippany Troy-Hills a place of pride for all.
Respectfully,
The Executive Board of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Education Association, on behalf of its members
Robert Iracane, Chairman Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment minutes after the vote was taken for the reappointment of Board Attorney Peter King, Esq.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment Chairman “exceeded his statutory authority” by sending Board Attorney Peter King, Esq. an email and then left a voice message stating “I tried to reach you by phone yesterday and left a message. As I explained, the council has decided to change attorneys for the coming year. We will be appointing William Johnson. I hope you will be able to complete any open items you might have. Please fee (sic) free to call me. Best regards, Bob Iracane.” (Click here to read the email and Click here to listen to the voice recording).
Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., said “The council does not get involved in who the BOA appoints as its attorney, that is up to BOA members. I don’t know who authorized the hiring of a new attorney; all I can say is it definitely wasn’t me.” Councilman Justin Musella said “No I do not know who on the council decided to change attorneys. I was not aware of any vote authorizing this change.”
“I was not aware of any plot to remove Peter King. Decisions of the BOA should remain impartial and independent of the Township Council,” said Councilman Justin Musella. Newly elected Councilman Frank Neglia said “It is my understanding that the BOA is an autonomous Board. The Council has little to do with it and they (BOA) make all their own decisions. I know nothing about the decision they make or the reasons why. ”
Requests for comments from other Council members went unanswered, as well as questions to Mr. Iracane.
Scott Joskowitz, (right) was sworn in by Board Attorney Peter king, Esq.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Ordinance, Chapter 225, Section IV, Subsection 225-19, Section A states “There is hereby established in the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills a Zoning Board of Adjustment consisting of seven regular members, who shall serve for terms of four years from January 1 of the year of their appointment, and two alternate members, who shall be residents of the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills appointed by the Township Council. Alternate members shall be designated at the time of appointment by the authority appointing them as “Alternate No. 1” and “Alternate No. 2.”
The members as of January 1, 2022, are Robert Iracane, Nancy Snyder, Bernard Berkowitz, Scott Joskowitz, Dave Kaplan, Sridath Reddy, Davey Willans, Casey Parikh (Alternate 1), and Chris Mazzarella (Alternate 2).
At the January 12 meeting, Robert Iracane was selected to be Chairman, and David Kaplan was selected to be Vice-Chairman, by the majority of the voting members. Since his previous term as Chairman expired on December 31, technically he was just a member of the Board of Adjustment at the time of his email and voice mail messages.
Subchapter 225:20-A states “The Board of Adjustment shall employ or contract an Attorney for the services of a Board of Adjustment,” thus not giving Robert Iracane, or the Township Council, the power of replacing Board Attorney Peter King, *until such time a vote is conducted by all of the members of the Board of Adjustment. That did not happen until Wednesday, January 12.
Peter King was then nominated and selected by David Kaplan, Scott Joskowitz, Sridath Reddy, and Nancy Snyder, thus the majority voted in favor of retaining Peter King, Esq. for another year. Prior to the current nomination, King was the Board Attorney for the past eight years.
Subsection B states “A member may, after public hearing if he requests it, be removed by the governing body for cause. A vacancy occurring otherwise than by expiration of term shall be filled for the unexpired term only.”
Mr. Iracane was so sure that Mr. Johnson was going to be appointed, he had the Board Secretary change the agenda’s to eliminate Mr. King and replace it with Mr. Johnson. (Click here to view the Reorganization Agenda, and Click here to view the regular Agenda).
Ai Sakae Asian Cuisine is located at 970B Tabor Road, Parsippany
PARSIPPANY — Have a craving for Asian food, but the family cannot agree on what kind? Someone wants Chinese, another wants Thai, and then someone else is really in the mood for Sushi. Dilemma solved!
Dine-In, Take-Out, Contact Free Delivery (Grubhub), BYOB, and Catering. Special Requests Taken for Food Allergies. Off-Street Parking Lot, Open 7 Days a Week.
Joining the eclectic Parsippany culinary scene this past November 29, despite all the unpredictable and challenging issues facing small businesses, was a very welcomed new addition to our community, Ai Sakae Asian Cuisine. Ai Sakae, an attractive, classy-looking, glass-fronted building nestled in the Tabor Road Plaza, a small strip mall on Tabor Road, also known as Route 53. Ai Sakae’s cordial manager, Lynnsie, who was kind enough to spend time answering my many questions, explained that the name comes from “Ai,” a Chinese word for love, and “Sakae” a Japanese word for prosperity. And despite its Morris Plains address, this great new venue is in fact situated in the Township of Parsippany.
The seating area at Ai Sakae Asian Cuisine
This family-owned and operated eatery, owned by Ken and Cindy Chen, is not an Asian fusion restaurant, nor is it strictly a sushi restaurant, even though their sushi and sashimi selections are excellent. Ai Sakae’s menu interestingly consists of a wide variety of authentic selections and modern interpretations of classic dishes from China, Japan, and Thailand. Not to forget a wide selection of sushi and sashimi choices artfully prepared and presented by the restaurant’s extraordinarily talented and skilled sushi chef, Ai Sakae’s owner Ken.
Ken Chen’s culinary journey includes many years in the restaurant industry, sharpening his skills and mastering the different food preparation styles, cooking techniques, and various nuances common to the three diverse cultures to ensure authentic dishes, before he and his wife, Cindy, opened their former restaurant, Mintea in Cedar Knolls, an Asian eatery utilizing the same multi-Asian menu concept that we now find in Ai Sakae.
For first-timers, or those not familiar with these cuisines, there are a lot of unfamiliar words, flavor combinations, and ingredients to wrap your head around, but no fear, the staff at Ai Sakae will be more than happy to answer any questions and/or offer recommendations if requested.
Ai Sakae is small in size, with only 10 or 12 tables and a standalone sushi bar with several seats, but it gives the impression of being welcoming, cozy, comfortably spacious, and airy once inside. Newly renovated (formerly part of a neighboring business) the atmosphere and ambiance provide a comfortable, casual (with a touch of semi-elegance), well lighted, and thoughtfully decorated dining room. The warm orange walls adorned with a few tasteful paintings, offset with brown leather wall accents, and tiled walls, all work well together to create the proper mood. Immaculately clean, small wood-grained laminated tables, soft black leather chairs, and well-appointed tables set with chopsticks, soy sauce, and Ai Sakae’s extensive menu, complete the initial introduction to Ai Sakae.
Pat Minutillo, Cindy Chen, Lynnsie and Chef Ken Chen
I arrived with several friends, and we were immediately greeted and seated by our attentive and well-humored waiter, Stanley. We never felt rushed and were able to enjoy some of our culturally appropriate BYOB while we perused the menu. Since Ai Sakae is a BYOB, I brought along some Orion, a Japanese lager with a bit of a punch and a depth of flavor. Mike F. went with Japan’s most popular beer, Sapporo, while Mike Z. went Thai with Chang, a full-flavored subtle lager. Dennis preferred a non-alcoholic house Thai Iced Tea. As a special treat, the restaurant sent over a well-appreciated complimentary plate of delicious sushi pizza, a crispy, yet chewy, fried rice patty topped with avocado, salmon, tuna, or crab meat, and drizzled with blended mayonnaise and wasabi mix. First time I have had it and it was a treat. Great start!
Our group decided to start off with some shared appetizers. First to arrive at our table was one of the Sakae Special Rolls, the Ridgedale Roll. Filled with crunchy spicy tuna, shrimp tempura, and cucumber with soy paper, topped with avocado, caviar rice, and crunchy yellowtail, and then topped with five diverse kinds of fish and special sauce. It was as good as it sounds.
Ridgedale Roll
For first-timers, or those not familiar with these cuisines, there are a lot of unfamiliar words, flavor combinations, and ingredients to wrap your head around, but no fear, the staff at Ai Sakae will be more than happy to answer any questions and/or offer recommendations if requested. Remember that while it is true that China, Japan, and Thailand share some ingredients, some methods, and some ideas about food (like using an abundance of fresh ingredients), their cuisines are distinctly different, and Asian cuisine is unique in comparison to various parts of the world.
Tempura Shrimp and Tempura Vegetables arrived next. The deep-fried tempura batter covering the elongated shrimp, and veggies, had a super crispy texture and was full of flavor, and perfectly complemented with an accompanying dipping sauce.
Love Boat
The “Love Boat” sailed in next. Ten pieces of sushi, six kinds of sashimi, and a love roll. The fish was so fresh it could have just come out of the Ocean. As we dabbed the wasabi with our chopsticks and quickly devoured the abundant assortment of spicy tuna, salmon, striped bass, yellowtail, roe, fluke, white fish, and more, we were beginning to wonder if our mouths were bigger than our stomachs, but we soldiered on.
Mike F. enjoyed an aromatic bowl of sour, salty, and spicy Tom Yum Seafood Soup as we pondered over our choice of entrees. This went on for a while, as one might expect based on the vast selection of mouth-watering choices listed on the menu.
Hunan Style Chicken; a favorite Chinese American stir fry made with juicy
I finally settled on Mongolian Beef, which came with a choice of white or brown rice (I went with brown), and a side of Miso Soup. The beef had a mild taste, as Mongolian beef should have, and came with those trademark green onions and sauce. Mongolian beef has a complicated sweet and spicy taste and can or cannot be spicy hot. The dish was scrumptious, but the next time I will ask them to punch up the heat index, as I tend to prefer very spicy food. The Miso Soup was savory with a nice umami flavor. You could taste the fresh ingredients in every bite.
Shrimp with Garlic Sauce
Others in the group, for their entrees, went with the Hunan Style Chicken; a favorite Chinese American stir fry made with juicy, thinly sliced chicken breasts and veggies, in a dynamic savory sauce; and the Teriyaki Chicken, grilled chicken lacquered with a sweet soy teriyaki sauce; and a specially made order of Shrimp with Garlic Sauce. You have to love the healthy and light appearance that dominates Japanese cuisine. I should mention that the presentation of every dish was artistic and tantalizing. You could clearly see the effort put into the careful preparation of every serving. As they say, “food presentation is the key to pulling all five senses into the experience of eating.” The consensus was that everyone thoroughly enjoyed their meals, as well as the sincerely warm hospitality and truly professional service by the entire restaurant team. Very pleasant culinary experience, but unfortunately, not one of us had any room left for their tempting, decadent desserts.
Teriyaki Chicken, grilled chicken lacquered with a sweet soy teriyaki sauce
So, when that craving for Asian food kicks in, I would highly recommend giving Ai Sakae a visit. I am confident you will enjoy it as much as I did. And please remember to continue to support all our local businesses. It is appreciated!
Quote from Ai Sakae Asian Cuisine’s Website:
“The key to our success is simple: providing quality consistent food that tastes great every single time,”
“I think it’s important to be open-minded and expand. Be adventurous with your palate and you’ll come across a lot of good people, good food, remarkably interesting cultures.” Vietnamese Chef, Vy Nguyen.
Dine-In, Take-Out, Contact Free Delivery (Grubhub), BYOB, and Catering. Special Requests Taken for Food Allergies. Off-Street Parking Lot, Open 7 Days a Week.
Ai Sakae Asian Cuisine is located at 970B Tabor Road, Parsippany. (Morris Plains, NJ 07050) – (973) 998-8818 www.aisakae.com
PARSIPPANY — Students from schools in Parsippany, Florham Park, Chester, Jefferson Township, Morristown, Whippany, Mt. Arlington, and Madison have been named as Mayo Performing Arts Center’s January 2022 Music Students of the Month – Outstanding Percussionists.
The students will receive a certificate for their honor from MPAC and will be featured on the Music Student of the Month page on the MPAC website.
Students were nominated by their teachers and were chosen by the Theatre’s Education Department based on their commitment to and excellence in the performing arts. The Theatre will honor a group of students every month throughout the season and invites area teachers to nominate students for this honor.
The 2021-2022 Music Student of the Month program is supported by The Walter F. and Alice Gorham Foundation, Inc.
Kendra Brooks
Grade 8, Ridgedale Middle School; Florham Park; Nominated by Michael Leone
Kendra is currently an 8th-grade percussionist at Ridgedale Middle School. She has been with us since sixth grade. March 2020, during her sixth-grade year, we closed our school building and went fully virtual. Our instrumental music program was fully virtual through the remainder of her sixth-grade year and her entire seventh-grade year. Despite these obvious and enormous challenges, Kendra has shown diligence and respect for her craft well beyond her years. She is a strong and reliable leader in our 7th/8th Grade Band and always strives to help others succeed, as well as lead by example. Our instrumental music program is very successfully beginning its climb back from more than an entire fully virtual school year, and Kendra Brooks is one of the reasons for that success.
Calyb Craig
Grade 8, Black River Middle School; Chester; Nominated by Dr. Kenneth Piascik
Calyb Craig is the definition of a well-rounded, dedicated, and talented musician. A “Complete” Percussionist! Mr. Craig joined our music department in the sixth grade and has continued to develop our program above and beyond. His energy, positive attitude, helpfulness, leadership, and passion inspire us all. Not only is Mr. Craig in the full band, but he also participates in our Honors Percussion Ensemble, “Encore” Jazz Ensemble, Theory Program, and is a top member of our “Music Level System.” Where there is music at Black River, you will find Mr. Craig close by. One of the great parts of being a teacher is listening to my students talk about their passions in life. This has given me the chance to experience some amazing people and achievements. Mr. Craig cares deeply about our world, other people’s feelings, and improving everyone’s quality of life. He extends this kindness to our community and the members of the band respect and consider him to be a great leader.Calyb Craig is without a doubt an “Outstanding Percussionist”, and I am very proud to be part of his musical journey.
Michael Dalessio
Grade 12, Jefferson Township High School; Oak Ridge; Nominated by Dan Gugger
Michael Dalessio is among the top percussion students I have worked with within my career. He has all the traits of someone who can enter a successful career in performance. He is a fantastic reader and player of battery percussion and drum kit. He recently made the rounds on social media playing quints upside down in our marching band. Mike is consistently accepted in external ensembles like County, Area, and Region Band. He is a section leader in every area of our music program and sets a great example for his peers. I highly recommend Mike Dalessio for Outstanding Percussionist!
Dean Dooley
Grade 9, Delbarton School; Morristown; Nominated by Andrew Lyman
Sean is a fantastic person and a highly skilled percussionist at a young age. At the start of the year, all students auditioned for seating in our music ensembles, and Sean became the principal percussionist in our High School Band. Throughout the past few months, Sean has been extremely reliable, trustworthy, and helpful. He works hard to learn his music as soon as possible and lends a helping hand to the other percussionists in his section. Sean is very confident in his playing and always strives to help make the other musicians around him better. He is a true leader and it is a pleasure to have him in our ensemble.
CJ Guarente
Grade 8, Mountain View Middle School; Florham Park; Nominated by Joseph Stella
Darian is an eighth-grade percussionist who has shown tremendous growth in concert band during the past two years making him one of our top players. In addition to building on his musical skills, he has really improved his attitude toward music. This year, he has also taken on the challenge of being the drum set player in our school’s jazz band. He would be a fitting recipient of the Outstanding Percussionist recognition.
Gerard Palmieri
Grade 7, Mount Arlington Public School; Mount Arlington; Nominated by Dr. Michael Aberback
Gerard Palmieri is an exceptional percussionist and band member. He has been a dedicated and enthusiastic member of my band program for the past four years. He currently plays in our school Concert Band and Percussion Ensemble. In order to participate in these ensembles, Gerard attends before-school morning rehearsals three times a week. He is never late for rehearsal, has not had a single unexcused absence this year, and he always arrived prepared and excited to play. Gerard is a well-rounded percussionist. He is an excellent drum set player as well as a talented mallet player. He has a very solid sense of tempo, a good ear, and strong technique. Gerard is hard-working, good-natured, and well-liked by his peers. He is a pleasure to work with the band. I think he would greatly enjoy as well as benefit from seeing the Stomp show at MPAC as we are currently working on a Stomp-style piece for garbage cans in a percussion ensemble. It is without hesitation that I nominate Gerard Palmieri for the Music Student of the Month Outstanding Percussionist award
Jimmy Scholz
Grade 12, Whippany Park High School; Whippany; Nominated by Carl Sabatino
Jimmy has shown continued growth from his time as a freshman until now. His passion for percussion as well as his drive to improve make him a fine student musician worthy of this honor. As a leader, he is determined to leave the percussion section better than he found it. He has both the patience to work with the younger students and the technique to teach the older ones. He is always the first person at every one of our rehearsals and is among the last to leave. He does everything that needs to be done so that the members of his section have the best chance to succeed. I highly recommend Jimmy Scholz.
Meredith Weiner
Grade 12, Madison High School; Madison; Nominated by Russ Batch
Meredith is one of the best percussion students I have had in 26 years of teaching. Not only does she take her own craft seriously, and rise to the occasion for all forms of percussion playing, but she takes her relationship with the other students in the section seriously as well. Meredith can often be seen helping those that need extra assistance with rhythms, or techniques. Students seek her out with questions about music or how to maintain instruments. Meredith, in addition to being our leader in Marching Band, Jazz Band, Wind Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, is also involved in an entire host of outside-of-school percussion activities that allow her to grow her skill and knowledge of the instruments.
Mayo Performing Arts Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, presents a wide range of programs that entertain, enrich, and educate the diverse population of the region and enhance the economic vitality of Northern New Jersey. The 2021-2022 season is made possible, in part, by a grant from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as support received from the F.M. Kirby Foundation, The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation and numerous corporations, foundations, and individuals. Mayo Performing Arts Center was named 2016 Outstanding Historic Theatre by the League of Historic American Theatre and is ranked in the top 50 mid-sized performing arts centers by Pollstar Magazine.
Parsippany resident Chris Mazzarella was appointed to the Board of Adjustment for a two-year term expiring December 31, 2024.Board Attorney Peter King, Esq. administered the "Oath of Office" to Mazzarella.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment held its reorganization meeting on Wednesday, January 12.
Parsippany resident Chris Mazzarella was appointed to the Board of Adjustment for a two-year term expiring December 31, 2024. He will serve as Alternate #2.
Parsippany resident Casey Parikh was reappointed to the Board of Adjustment for a two-year term expiring December 31, 2024. He will serve as Alternate #1. Board Attorney Peter King, Esq. administered the “Oath of Office” to Parikh.
Parsippany resident Casey Parikh was reappointed to the Board of Adjustment for a two-year term expiring December 31, 2024. He will serve as Alternate #1.
Scott Joskowitz, who was previously Alternate #1, was sworn in as a regular member, with a term expiring December 31, 2025. Board Attorney Peter King, Esq. administered the “Oath of Office” to Joskowitz.
Scott Joskowitz, who was previously Alternate #1, was sworn in as a regular member, with a term expiring December 31, 2025.
Board Attorney Peter King, Esq. administered the “Oath of Office” to Mazzarella, Parikh, and Joskowitz.
Robert Iracane was elected Chairman and David Kaplan was elected Vice-Chairman.
Board Attorney Peter King, Jr., was re-elected to serve as Board Attorney with the majority of votes, although Board Chairman nominated Bill Johnson, from Johnson & Johnson, to replace King.
Other re-appointments included John Chadwick as Planner and Chas Holloway as Engineer.
Other members of the board include Bernard Berkowitz, Dave Kaplan, Robert Iracane, Sridath Reddy, Nancy Snyder, Davey Willans.
Tom Dinsmore, Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board held its reorganization meeting on Monday, January 10.
John Von Achen Vice-Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board
Tom Dinsmore was elected to serve as Chairman and John Von Achen was elected to serve as Vice Chairman.
Nora O. Jolie was reaffirmed as Planning Board Secretary.
Daniel R. Lagana, Partner Cleary Giacobbe Alfieri Jacobs administered the Oath of Office to new incoming members Gordon Meth and Ted Stanziale.
In addition, Tom Dinsmore and Jennifer Vealey took the Oath of Office.
Jennifer Vealey was re-appointed by Mayor Barberio to serve as a Class II member for a term ending December 31, 2022.
Tom Dinsmore taking the oath of office
Tom Dinsmore was re-appointed by Mayor Barberio to serve as a Class IV member for a term ending December 31, 2025.
Gordon Meth taking the oath of office
Gordon Meth was appointed by Mayor Barberio as a Class IV member for a term ending December 31, 2025.
Ted Staniziale taking the oath of office
Ted Stanziale was appointed by Mayor Barberio as an Alternate Number 1 of the Planning Board for a term ending December 31, 2023.
In addition, John Von Achen was appointed Chairman of the Minor Site Plan and Subdivision Committee. Gordon Meth, Jennifer Vealey, Dominic Mele, and Anil Dadheeh were appointed to serve on the Committee.
PARSIPPANY — Andrea Martone, a top New Jersey Realtor® and the owner of Realty Executives Platinum Agents, has an unquenchable passion for real estate combined with compassion for her community… and both of those qualities are evident through her dedication to both her clients and community service.
Martone was raised in Parsippany, as was her partner, Paul Cristelli. She has called Rockaway home in the past and currently resides in Denville. Today, she proudly boasts that she has been a Morris County resident for over 45 years. To Martone, real estate is more than helping clients buy and sell homes – it is about cultivating thriving communities and forming relationships with thousands of neighbors that call these communities home.
Martone began her real estate career 21 years ago and immediately began sponsoring charity events to promote her new business and expand her contacts. Her participation in Morris County events quickly led to invites to food drives, fundraisers for animal shelters, and more. She discovered that charity events were a great way to authentically connect with various members of the community and saying ‘no’ was not an option. The deep ties Martone developed with the community helped her become a true neighborhood expert and advocate.
“I believe that when you put out positive, positive things come back. These communities have been so supportive of me, my family, and my business over the years; the communities trust us. I want to do anything and everything I can to reciprocate that,” says Martone.
While Martone’s career has evolved over the years from agent to top producer to brokerage owner, her commitment to growing the community has not waivered. She is a longtime active member of the Elks Club in Parsippany, participating in the Ladies Auxiliary. The auxiliary hosts fish fry dinners, garage sales, raffles, and social events to raise money for initiatives such as Camp Moore, a vacation away from home for children with special needs.
Recently, both Martone and Cristelli joined the Kiwanis Club of Denville. Their work with the club helps raise money for various children’s initiatives through awards dinners, pancake breakfasts, paper shreds, and more. They also participate in the Denville library’s trunk or treat, safe and fun activity for local children.
But Martone and Cristelli cannot stop with one or two clubs when there are more communities to serve. The team sponsors trick-or-treat trails in Boonton and Rockaway and volunteer in the Parsippany Food Truck Festival supporting Parsippany Kiwanis. They participate in the Denville Fall Festival benefitting the fire department, and Parsippany’s trunk or treat. They have become the local go-to Realtors® when it comes to service, filling nearly all their non-business hours with events to benefit the neighborhoods they love. “We have so much fun that time truly flies by at each of these outings. We love catching up with everyone, seeing their kids grow, and having a great time together,” says Martone.
The project nearest and dearest to Martone is the Pink Witches Night Out. This Denville-based fundraiser occurs annually in October and supports breast cancer awareness. Deemed “New Jersey’s best girls’ night out for a great cause,” this year’s event benefited a 29-year-old local woman with stage three breast cancer. Attendees don witch hats with pink ribbons to honor cancer survivors, current warriors, and family members.
“The importance of giving back to the communities where you live, work, and play cannot be understated,” says Patrick van den Bossche, president of Realty Executives International. “Our Executives are attracted to real estate because it provides a tremendous opportunity to serve others, especially beyond a transaction. The Martone Team recognizes and understands that charitable service strengthens the community from the inside out, making a lasting impact.”
Stay tuned for Martone’s upcoming community activities, including Platinum Agents’ fundraiser for a local food pantry, complete with pictures with Santa. To learn more, visit MartoneTeam.com or connect with her on Facebook.
A Note About Andrea Martone
Andrea Martone is a top-quality real estate professional who possesses a high level of integrity and knowledge of the community to serve all your real estate needs. Her market awareness, coupled with marketing savvy, effective negotiation skills, and personal guidance, are exactly what is needed to navigate the real estate market. Andrea provides top-quality customer service by putting her clients first. She keeps herself accessible, response to her client’s needs, is an effective communicator and is an excellent listener. She also provides real estate information and listings on her Twitter page and her Facebook page.
This “client first” philosophy has always been Andrea’s approach and requires her to continually improve her skills and ways of doing business. Additionally, she has found that the latest technologies enable her to provide efficient service to buyers and sellers.
Martone has earned the Circle of Excellence Award each year for the past 20 years and has achieved the Platinum Circle of Excellence Award, the pinnacle accolade for Realtors® in New Jersey, for the past four years. She has been in the top one percent of New Jersey Realtors® since 2005. For more information, visit martoneteam.com.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, January 2022. Click here to view the article.
PARSIPPANY – Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, and Parsippany Police Department Acting Chief Richard Pantina, announce the arrest of Earl L. Kelly, 36, of Hamilton.
Kelly has been charged with four counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2a(3) and N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2a(4), crimes of the First Degree; two counts of Sexual Assault, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2c(1) crimes of the Second Degree; two counts of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3a, crimes of the Third Degree; one count of Criminal Sexual Contact, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3b, a crime of the Fourth Degree; one count of Robbery, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1a(2), a crime of the First Degree; one count of Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5b, a crime of the Second Degree; Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4a, a crime of the Second Degree; Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(4), a crime of the Fourth Degree; and Criminal Restraint in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:13-2a, a crime of the Third Degree.
It is alleged that on December 24, 2021, the defendant sexually assaulted and robbed a 19-year-old victim while armed with a handgun at the Holiday Inn in Parsippany. Following an investigation, the defendant was apprehended by members of the Edison Police Department on January 7, 2022.
After the defendant’s arrest, he was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility, and is pending a court appearance scheduled for January 8, 2022.
Anyone with information relating to this case or any related incident is asked to call Detective Thomas Laird of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at 973-285-6245.
Prosecutor Carroll would like to thank the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office’s Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, the Parsippany Police Department, the Hamilton Township Police Division, and the Edison Police Department for their efforts in the investigation and arrest of this defendant.
Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Commissioners sworn in to new, three-year terms stand with Director Selen (center). (L-R) John Krickus, Deborah Smith and Stephen H. Shaw
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen, a former mayor of Chatham Township, was sworn in tonight as Director of the Board of County Commissioners after fellow board members Deborah Smith of Denville, John Krickus of Washington Township, and Stephen H. Shaw of Mountain Lakes were sworn in to new, three-year terms as Commissioners.
“I stand here as an American who appreciates everything this nation allowed me to achieve, and I want to continue paying America back through public service,” said Commissioner Director Selen, a Turkish immigrant who spoke tonight of moving to this nation 25-years ago.
Tayfun Selen of Chatham Township is sworn in by Sheriff James Gannon with Selen’s wife, Tulin
He came with no money, unable to speak English and his first job was pumping gas at a service station in Madison, less than five miles from where he was being sworn in. By 2008, when he took the oath as an American citizen, he was leading the new branch development program for a major financial institution and later became mayor of Chatham Township.
“I am thankful to be living in Morris County – the best community anywhere – and with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic again at our doorstep, I will continue to work with this board to protect our residents and our business owners,” Selen said.
The annual Morris County Reorganization Meeting was held virtually this year due to a spike in the COVID-19 pandemic. Three Commissioners tuned in remotely via Webex, four others separately made their remarks before cameras in the Commissioners’ public meeting room in Morristown and the public watched remotely via Webex.
“Under trying circumstances, Morris County has stayed calm and carried on,” said Commissioner Krickus, as he was sworn into a new three-year term as Commissioner and separately as Deputy Director.
“We have enhanced our quality of life by funding open space, trails, and our park system, which really came in handy during the pandemic. We have the financial and organizational strength to respond to every twist and turn in this pandemic. All accomplished while not increasing taxes, one of the few zero-percent inflation services you will find,” Krickus added.
Commissioner Shaw, the past-Director, was sworn into his second three-year term on the board by Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce as his wife, Cindy, held the bible. He congratulated Director Selen and, in place of his remarks, deferred to the video encapsulating serious highlights of the past year and a bit of levity.
“While our jobs are very serious, we cannot take ourselves too seriously,” said Commissioner Shaw. “I am a firm believer that, especially during these trying times, we must pause from time to time and take a moment to laugh. I tried to do that throughout the year.”
The video included the launch of the Morris County COVID-19 Regional Vaccination Center as well as the launch of new programs and expansion of existing programs by Morris County, despite the pandemic.
Deborah Smith, who had served as Director and Deputy Director in 2020 and 2021, respectively, looked back at the ability of Morris County to continue providing services and expand programs while tackling the pandemic.
“We have been able to address the pandemic these past two years while still meeting our annual goals for bridge replacements, road repaving, infrastructure improvements, preserving historic sites, creating new trails, and saving more open space,” Smith said. “We have continued to assist our most vulnerable citizens, helping seniors and maintaining all of our Human Services programs. We also have maintained our Triple-A financial rating.”
Commissioner Director Selen was accompanied by his wife, Tulin, as he was sworn in as Director by Sheriff James Gannon. The Sheriff also swore Commissioner Smith to her new term, as her husband, Stephen, stood with her.
John Krickus is sworn in as Deputy Director by Sen. Anthony M. Bucco with his wife, Carolyn; daughter, Kelly, and son-in-law, Garrett Lare
Commissioner Krickus was sworn to his new term by Assemblywoman Aura Dunn while accompanied by his wife, Carolyn; daughter, Kelly, and son-in-law, Garrett Lare. He was sworn in as Deputy Director by Sen. Anthony M. Bucco.
Participating in the swearing-in, in person, was Former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli. The invocation was provided, virtually, by The Reverend Rod Perez-Vega of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Dover.
Singing the National Anthem, virtually, was Sara Lepre, a member of MAYO Performing Arts Centre’s Performing Arts Company.
The Morris County Board of County Commissioners will hold their next work session and regular meeting on January 12, 2022. The work session begins at 4:30 p.m. and the regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. The meetings will be held virtually until further notice.
PARSIPPANY — Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company (RLVFC) would like to thank Joe Reeber, Sr., and Doug Reighard for serving as Chief and Deputy Chief respectfully this past year.
Doug served our community in fire company leadership roles for seven years, five as Chief and two as Deputy Chief. Doug got involved right after moving into our community.
Joe who grew up in the Rainbow Lakes Community has held many fire officer positions and has served as our Chief for a second time and held leadership roles in the Parsippany Joint Chiefs.
Under their leadership RLVFC obtained praise and respect from neighboring fire companies, residents, earned numerous awards at local fairs and competitions, and attracted new members. Both promised to remain active as firefighters.
For the 2022 calendar year the following people will serve as officers:
Chief – Russell Greuter
Captain – Jeff Pikor and Keith Lefferts
Lieutenant – Greg Robinson, Josh Lefferts, and Nolan Keena
The business officers:
President – Frank DeRienzo
Vice President – Jeff Pikor
Treasurer – George Appel
Secretary – Mark Rabson
Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company is located in Parsippany–Troy Hills and are located in Parsippany Fire District Two which is governed by an elected Board of Commissioners which includes Commissioners Donald Denise, James Murphy, George Appel, Chuck Iantosca, and Pete Deegan.
If you would like to help serve our community as a first responder please stop at the firehouse the first Friday evening of each month, most Monday evenings, or contact any member of the fire company.
MORRIS PLAINS — Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace in Morris Plains will open on January 14 at 11:00 a.m.
On that day, a grand opening will be held with live music, ribbon cutting, food samples, and more.
Whether you’re around the corner or across the country, you can now enjoy Uncle Giuseppe’s fresh Ravioli with your family any day of the year. Prepared fresh daily in their Marketplaces, our Fresh Pasta has so many cuts, shapes, and sizes, there’s no limit to your next delicious meal!
This is the market’s second location in New Jersey and it’s first in Morris County. The 42,000-square-foot space is occupying the former ShopRite, in Briarcliff Commons.
“We are thrilled to be opening our second New Jersey location in prestigious Briarcliff Commons,” said Philip DelPrete, Co-founder and President of Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace. “This property puts us at a premier location in Morris Plains where we will be able to introduce the community to our unique gourmet offerings and shopping experience.”
Uncle Giuseppe’s, a full-service supermarket featuring a gourmet Italian theme, will occupy more than 42,000 square feet. It will be the grocer’s second store in New Jersey, following the enormous success of its first New Jersey location in Ramsey. The new Uncle Giuseppe’s store brings this beloved brand to Morris County, offering key essentials as well as its unique selection of specialty items in a convenient location with ample parking.
Urban Edge Properties, the real estate trust that owns Briarcliff Commons, announced that Uncle Giuseppe had signed a lease with the property in the summer of 2020.
The location will showcase all Uncle Giuseppe’s favorites such as a full-service deli, specialty butcher, scratch-made bakery, as well as its famous viewing rooms where pasta and mozzarella are made fresh daily. In addition, the store includes a full grocery, dairy, and frozen food complement to ensure a complete shopping experience.
For added convenience, Uncle Giuseppe’s will also offer home delivery and curbside pickup for everyday grocery essentials.
“Briarcliff Commons is already the most visited shopping center in its market for everyday needs, and we expect the addition of Uncle Giuseppe’s will increase visits further while introducing a one-of-a-kind, specialty grocery experience unmatched in this market,” said Chris Weilminster, EVP and COO of Urban Edge Properties. “We are very pleased that our recent investment to renovate and redevelop this property, including the new retail lineup, has enhanced the offering for the community. It’s a win-win, and we look forward to welcoming Uncle Giuseppe’s.”
For more information about Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace click here.
Briarcliff Commons is located at 1711 State Route 10 east is at the intersection of Route 10 and Route 202. Other shops include Skechers, Wells Fargo, Terry’s Pet Depot, Massage Envy, Chiptole Mexican Grill, First Watch, Kohls, and Chick-fil-A.
Two other stores will be opening soon in the Briarcliff Commons: Chopt Creative Salad Company and Crumbl Cookies. (Click here to read the story).
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County’s Board of County Commissioners announced the county will resume no-cost, COVID-19 testing inside the Student Center at the County College of Morris (CCM) on Monday, January 10 to help meet soaring demand.
Testing is available by appointment only.No one will be permitted to walk into the facility without an appointment, and appointments must be scheduled online by clicking here.
The center will be open seven days per week and appointments will be available between 7:00 a.m. and 6:45 p.m., except for a half-hour between 12:30 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.
“We are meeting the increased demand of our residents for more testing facilities, and we want to take a tremendous burden off local hospitals where emergency room personnel have been overwhelmed by people walking in hoping to find tests,” said Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw.
Saint Clare’s Health and Morristown Medical Center/Atlantic Health System have noted that a Morris County testing center at CCM will relieve emergency department pressures.
“Our strategic planning committee had discussed the need for testing recently, and despite tight supplies and limited resources, we are pleased the county was able to launch this initiative. Hopefully, the sharp increases in cases are plateauing, and we will have as sharp a decline,” said Commissioner John Krickus, referring to the board’s COVID-19 Strategic Planning Advisory Committee, of which he is a member.
Testing Center Morris County and the County College of Morris will again collaborate with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office to operate the testing facility in the same Student Center location where the county-operated its testing center last year. Instead of a saliva test, the center will employ the LabQ Diagnostics nasal-swab PCR tests.
HQ Health, which is the new LabQ brand name for the company’s suite of comprehensive and complete healthcare services, opened a new, 100,000 square foot center in Mount Olive last May. Among other operations, the center will manage four other national data centers for LabQ and employ more than 1,000 people locally.
Because of the massive demand on testing throughout the nation, people looking to be tested are being advised that receiving results may take considerably longer than the usually advertised timetable of 24 hours to 48 hours.
People who schedule a test will not be charged for the service but will be asked to provide information about whether they have health insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, or no healthcare coverage. Individuals with symptoms or who have a known exposure to COVID-19 should follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for isolation or quarantine until they receive their test results.
Please monitor the COVID-19 information page on the Morris County website to learn of any changes in the testing schedule at CCM or updates on other testing programs and the pandemic.
“We’ve met the pandemic head-on since it began. Last year we set up the most successful vaccination center in the state at the Rockaway Townsquare Mall, as well as a testing center. With this recent rise in cases, we are launching the testing center again with the same vigor and level of tenacity as before,” said Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo, a liaison to the county Department of Law & Public Safety.
“The County College of Morris is always ready to support the county in any way, and we are willing and proud to assist with this endeavor,” said CCM President Anthony J. Iacono.
Directions and Precautions Parking at CCM for people with appointments will be reserved in Lot 6, where individuals using public transportation to and from CCM also may board or disembark from a bus. To find directions to CCM and learn more about public transportation options to and from the campus, please go to the CCM website.
Everyone arriving at the campus is required to wear a protective face covering or mask from the time of arrival in the parking lot to the moment of departure.
Sons of Italy Joe Jannarone with Robin Hughes, Crisis Response Team Manager, JBWS
PARSIPPANY — Son’s of Italy 2561 gave out approximately $3,000 of ShopRite and Walmart gift cards to local families, Parsippany Day Care Center, Jersey Battered Women’s Shelter, Interfaith, and Parsippany food pantries.
The Morris County of the Order of Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 is an affiliated member of the Order of the Sons of Italy In America Association, the largest and longest established Italian-American organization in the United States.
Morris County Lodge was founded as a non-profit organization, which contributes thousands of dollars to worthwhile local charities and families. The lodge is proud to be able to serve a small portion of needs to our local communities. Donations include, but are not limited to, The Parsippany Food Pantry, High School Scholarships, Gift cards to families in need, The Valerie Fund, Alzheimer’s, and many more.
For more information on how to join, please email John Ionero, President, at MorrisSOI2561@gmail.com.
MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Murphy announced that the New Jersey National Guard will be deploying to long-term care facilities throughout New Jersey to assist with COVID-19 response efforts and to augment facilities’ staffing. This is an extension of Joint Task Force COVID Guardian, which has provided coordinated assistance to numerous long-term care facilities since the first weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Time and time again, the New Jersey National Guard has stepped up to the plate throughout this pandemic,” said Governor Murphy. “This deployment will send members of our National Guard to long-term care facilities with staffing needs and will act to protect the health and safety of long-term-care residents while the Omicron variant surges throughout the nation.
“COVID-19 is still a threat to our New Jersey communities,” said Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Commissioner Brig. Gen. Lisa Hou, D.O.”The Soldiers and Airmen of the New Jersey National Guard are working hard every day to protect public health.”
“We are grateful to the National Guard for their assistance in caring for the residents of those facilities most in need,” said Department of Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli. “Throughout this pandemic, protecting our most vulnerable residents has been paramount. As we have seen in the community, COVID-19 cases and outbreaks have been rising for several weeks in our long-term care facilities. We continue to work closely with long-term care facilities throughout the state to ensure that they have the staff they need.”
Approximately 150 Soldiers and Airmen of the New Jersey National Guard are preparing to support staffing requirements of more than a dozen long-term care facilities around the state. Guard members will assist regular staff with a variety of tasks, including administrative and logistical support. Members are undergoing training and work is anticipated to start at their assigned locations on Monday, January 10.
Tasks that National Guard members will assist with will include:
Assist residents with getting from bed to chair, walking
Assistance in dressing and daily hygiene activities
Meal set-up and feeding
Routine assistance
Testing and screening staff, residents, and visitors
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council unanimously voted on Wednesday, January 5, to appoint Michael B. Lavery, Esq. as Parsippany’s newest Township Attorney. If appointed by the Council, Mr. Lavery started serving as the township immediately after the vote was conducted.
Michael B. Lavery is the founding partner of Lavery, Selvaggi. Abromitis and Cohen and the director of the firm’s Municipal Government Practice. Mr. Lavery is considered one of the state’s foremost attorneys in the area of municipal government law. He presently represents numerous governmental entities and serves as Special Counsel to the County of Warren for Open Space & Farmland Preservation.
Mr. Lavery has been appointed to be the Township Attorney for Hardwick, Lopatcong, Mansfield, Oxford, Greenwich, and Washington (Warren County) Townships, as well as Attorney for the Frelinghuysen Township Land Use Board, the Chester Township Zoning Board of Adjustment, the Warren County Soil Conservation District and Special Counsel to the County of Sussex.
Michael is also a seasoned land use attorney. He has represented many developers, corporations, and individuals in a variety of applications. He is recognized by land use boards throughout northern New Jersey and respected for his thorough understanding of the New Jersey Municipal Land Use Law and his professional approach when appearing before local and administrative boards. His knowledge of both land use law and local government law uniquely qualifies him as an excellent choice for those applications that demand a competent and thoughtful strategy.
Mr. Lavery is also an accomplished litigator having represented numerous clients in numerous civil and commercial matters in state and federal courts. He offers clients zealous representation tempered by a practical and sound approach to effectively resolving disputes.
Mr. Lavery is the former State Chairman for the New Jersey Republican Party and formerly served as General Counsel to the NJGOP from November 2017 – 2020. He was the Mayor of Hackettstown for two terms from 2005-2011. On June 25, 2015, he was appointed by Governor Chris Christie to serve as a Commissioner for the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission and a year later he was elected Chairman of the Commission. He has also served as Republican State Committeeman for Warren County and as Legislative Aide to then-Senator Leonard Lance (R-23), who formerly served as Congressman for the 7th District. These experiences enable him to assist those seeking to navigate the often confusing aspects of state and local government. His counsel is often sought by those trying to secure approvals from regulatory and administrative agencies in northern New Jersey and Trenton.
When not representing clients, Michael serves the community as a member of the Hackettstown Medical Center Advisors Board and is former President of the Hackettstown Medical Center Foundation Board. He also serves on the Centenary University Board of Trustees. Mr. Lavery is a past President of the Hackettstown Area Chamber of Commerce as well as a founding member of the Warren County Regional Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Lavery formerly served as Chairman of the District 13 Fee Arbitration Committee.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education will hold a VIRTUALmeeting on Thursday, January 6. Regular Session 6:30 p.m.
The members of the Public can click here to join the meeting. Passcode: M673bL
Members of the public will be given the opportunity for public comment during those times allocated on the agenda, and all comments must be in accordance with the procedures and time limits set forth in Board Policy 0167, which can be found in the District website by clicking here.
To request a chance to speak during the public portion, please raise your virtual hand.
The meeting will consist of:
Organization of the Board PersonnelAward of Bids PaymentofBills Transfer of Funds GeneralBusinessItems
To download a copy of the Superintendent’s Bulletin can be found by clicking here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Steven Oroho and Senator Joe Pennacchio have filed requests for public records related to the Murphy administration’s $53 million settlement for veterans’ home deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We’ve filed a request for public records related to the $53 million that apparently will be paid by New Jersey taxpayers to settle claims of negligence and incompetence made against the Murphy administration for deaths in State-run veterans’ homes,” said Oroho (R-24), the incoming Republican leader. “The documents we are seeking will help us to understand what went wrong at the start of the coronavirus pandemic so we can develop effective policies that better protect our seniors and veterans. This isn’t about playing ‘gotcha’ with the administration, we’re trying to save lives.”
Days before Christmas, the Murphy administration confirmed it will pay $52.9 million to settle claims with 119 families of veterans home residents whose deaths were attributed to the coronavirus at the start of the pandemic.
Since May of 2020, Senate Republicans have sought to understand how the Murphy administration’s response to the pandemic contributed to unnecessary deaths in New Jersey’s nursing homes and State-run veteran’s homes.
In a continuing attempt to understand the underlying facts as well as the administration’s rationale for settling claims related to veterans home deaths, Oroho and Pennacchio have filed new requests for government records under the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) with the Governor’s Office, Department of Health, Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and Department of Law & Public Safety as follows:
“Please provide a copy of any and all directives, policy statements, or other instructions or guidance, related to COVID-19, provided under the authority of the [named department], or any subdivision thereof, to any administrator, supervisor, or other staff or personnel, including volunteers, of a State-operated veterans nursing home in New Jersey between March 1, 2020, and the date on which this request is received.
“Additionally, please provide a copy of any settlement, mediation, arbitration or other agreement entered into by the State, or subdivision thereof, arising out of a lawsuit concerning the death, due to COVID-19, of a resident of any of the State-operated veterans nursing homes in New Jersey, as well as any government record relied upon to determine the terms of the settlement, mediation, arbitration, or other agreement.”
The Murphy administration denied a prior OPRA request from Senate Republicans seeking documents transmitted by the Department of Law & Public Safety to the Civil Rights Division of the United States Department of Justice pursuant to a federal investigation into pandemic-related nursing and veterans home deaths.
Pennacchio said he is hoping this new effort leads to a greater understanding of the impact of Murphy administration policies which forced the admission and prevented the testing of patients by nursing homes and State-run veterans home. Further, he hopes settlement-related documents can answer questions about the role of the New Jersey Department of Health and the State Epidemiologist in developing those policies and provide a clear timeline of discussions.
“At every turn, we’ve been stonewalled by the Murphy administration and denied access to public records that could provide critical insight to lawmakers,” said Pennacchio (R-26). “Their repeated denials will not deter us from continuing to seek important pandemic records that can inform our efforts to improve the health, safety, and economic well-being of New Jerseyans. Every OPRA request the Murphy administration denies only strengthens our case for convening a select committee with subpoena power to get the answers that lawmakers, victims, and families deserve.”
Senate Republicans have been calling for the formation of an investigative select committee since May of 2020 and have made multiple efforts to bring a resolution (SR-68) forming the committee up for a vote.
Following news of the $53 million settlement, the Senate Republican caucus sent a letter to Senate President Stephen Sweeney and Senate President-Designate Nicholas Scutari repeating calls for the formation of a Senate Select Committee on the Executive Branch’s Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic.