Morris County Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo presents Jannarone with a Proclamation from the County of Morris
PARSIPPANY — In celebration of Arbor Day, Joe Jannarone, Sr., was the guest speaker at the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany on May 28.
Every year Joe gathers a group of teens to package pine tree seedlings
Joe told the club how the Arbor Day program has been continuing in the Township of Parsippany for 45 years. Every year Joe gathers a group of teens to package pine tree seedlings. Each tree seeding is carefully bagged with peat moss. The seedlings are then distributed to every second grader in the Parsippany school system on Arbor Day, May 29. Everyone in attendance at the meeting also received seedlings.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Connie Keller presents Joe Jannarone, Sr., a proclamation on behalf of Senator Joe Pennachio and the Assembly
Joe has dedicated his life to the beautification of Parsippany. He is the reason that Parsippany is one of only two cities in New Jersey that have been designated as a Tree City.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio presents Joe Jannarone, Sr., with a proclamation as Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Connie Keller looks on
Joe received proclamations for his dedication and significant contributions to Parsippany from Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Morris County Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo, and Senator Joe Pennacchio.
Morris County Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo presents Jannarone with a proclamation on behalf of the Morris County CommissionersKiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Connie Keller presents Joe Jannarone, Sr., a proclamation on behalf of Senator Joe Pennacchio and the AssemblyJoe Jannarone, Sr. with Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi
Jannarone has been a member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany since October 10, 1993.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Connie Keller, Joe Jannarone, Jr., Joe Jannarone, Sr., and Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio
PARSIPPANY — The Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company (Parsippany Fire District Two), in partnership with the Veterans of Rainbow Lakes, is pleased to announce the annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 28.
The parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Rainbow Lakes Firehouse, 1 Rainbow Trail, and end at the Rainbow Lakes ball field off Oakdale Road where a special memorial service honoring America’s fallen will be held.
We hope you mark your calendar to attend this time-honored event that has been around Rainbow for several decades. The parade and the Memorial Day ceremony and service will take place from 10:30 a.m to roughly 11:45 a.m.
Following the firehouse will host an open house with a lunch bbq. These events are open to all residents of fire district two. Thank you for your continued support of our fire company.
The Rainbow Lakes Fire Company members and the Veterans of Rainbow Lakes would look forward to seeing you and your family, in person, on May 28.
he Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River is one of the sights students and professors will enjoy on this CCM trip. Credit: John Soltes.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Parks Program, an interdisciplinary institute at County College of Morris (CCM), is venturing to Yellowstone National Park with its first-ever student group this month.
Seven CCM students were competitively selected for this once-in-a-lifetime, free opportunity to visit the national park from May 14 through May 19. They are sharing the experience with three CCM professors who are collaborating onsite to teach art history, biology, and storytelling in the amazing outdoor classroom.
“We’re very excited for this interdisciplinary trip to Yellowstone National Park that will serve as our learning laboratory,” says Dr. Brian Sahotsky, professor in the Art & Design department and one of the program organizers. “This trip in itself is not a program completion requirement but rather a capstone for students to investigate several disparate aspects of what makes the conservation of natural lands so great.”
The four-day journey begins with seeing the incredible magnitude of Yellowstone and learning the history of artists, naturalists, and explorers. Sahotsky will lead the group through Artists Point, Yellowstone Falls, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone providing opportunities for students to journal and sketch to capture the beautiful scenery.
Later that week, Professor John Soltes, an award-wining journalist teaching in the Communication department at CCM, will provide an overview of the cultural histories and discuss the major issues facing Yellowstone in the 21st Century. “We will also meet Dr. Shane Doyle, a member of the Crow Nation, and visit one of the tribe’s ancestral spots,” says Soltes.
The itinerary also includes looking for wildlife, such as bears, wolves, bison, elk, and moose, in Yellowstone’s Hayden Valley and Lamar Valley. CCM Biology Professor Samantha Gigliotti will use her many years of experience conducting educational sessions about wildlife conservation to delve into this topic in Wonderland.
“Yellowstone National Park is one of the few places left in the United States where you can still see large mammals that once roamed the majority of our country,” says Gigliotti. “Our students will be presented with this amazing opportunity to learn about these incredible animals’ biology and life history and immerse themselves in the landscapes that support them.”
This unique adventure wraps up with seeing the Yellowstone Caldera, the supervolcano that last erupted about 640,000 years ago creating a 30 x 45-mile landform, and also visiting a variety of geyser basins including Old Faithful.
“Ever since I was a child, I’ve always been an advocate for protecting the Earth’s diverse ecosystems,” says Peter Balluffi-Fry, an International Studies major from Mountain Lakes, who will be going on the trip. “Being able to explore and learn about the national park that inspired Americans to begin protecting our country’s natural environment is what ultimately motivated me to apply. “I’m looking forward to witnessing all of Yellowstone’s natural, majestic beauty first-hand, from the Grand Prismatic to the bison and bears that call Yellowstone home.
CCM students interested in going on the trip submitted an application with an essay explaining why they wanted to travel to Yellowstone. According to Sahotsky, “It was competitive with many more applicants than slots we had available.”
CCM is currently ranked #1 in New Jersey for best associate degrees and in the top 1.8 percent of the best community colleges nationwide by Intelligent. The college continues to maintain its #1 position in the state in PayScale’s “Best Community Colleges in New Jersey by Salary Potential,” a distinction it has held for five years in a row.
Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling hosted an Open House
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling hosted an Open House to show off her newly renovated office suite.
The open house was attended by Senator Anthony Bucco, a representative of Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Sheriff Jim Gannon, County Clerk Ann Grossi, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen, and County Administrator John Bonanni.
Surrogate Darling gave special thanks to the teams that brought the project to fruition, specifically Buildings & Grounds, Information Technology, the designer, and her Chief of Staff, Christina Ramirez.
Reverend Herman Scott opened the ceremony with a blessing for the new office. The Surrogate’s office was temporarily relocated to a small space for several months while the office suite was taken down to the outer walls and concrete floors.
It had been over 30 years since the suite was renovated and the work was mandated by the county with the caveat that Surrogate Darling be given time in the office before renovations in order to choose the most practical layout for the office now and into the foreseeable future.
“It was time to redesign and rework the office to create an efficient workflow with easy, welcoming access for the public to our office,” said Surrogate Darling. “We added a layer of safety and security for both the public and our staff based on the U.S. Marshall’s assessment for courthouse security.”
The renovation, part of the County’s overall infrastructure maintenance, also coincides with the overall modernization efforts Surrogate Darling has brought to the Surrogate’s Office since 2020 when she became Surrogate.
The Surrogate and her team’s overall goal is to offer the highest level of customer service and respond to the needs of the community by offering easy access and convenience.
The Surrogate’s Office is responsible for the probate of Wills, oversight of the administration of guardianships of incapacitated adults, and guardianships of minors, including money management for these guardianships. The Surrogate also oversees the adoption process in Morris County.
For more information on the Morris County Surrogate’s office click here.
Parsippany is the third Library in Morris County to enact this policy
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System will no longer charge overdue fines for items owned by Parsippany Libraries returned past their due date. In addition, all previously existing fines for the Main Library and/or Branch Libraries of items returned overdue will be waived.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library is proud to join the hundreds of libraries nationwide that are ensuring free and open access to library materials by going fine-free.
Parsippany is the third Library in Morris County to enact this policy.
Fines have been proven to discourage and decrease library use, and disproportionately affect low-income and minority communities. Libraries that have eliminated fines have seen library usage and material return rates increase.
Books, DVDs, and audiobooks owned by Parsippany libraries will no longer accrue fines if returned late. All previous overdue fines on Parsippany Library materials will be forgiven, so any customer who has overdue items at home can return those materials to the library, and all accumulated late fees or book replacement costs will be waived.
They encourage all Parsippany residents to use the library, and we are excited to welcome back the members of our community who have been unable to access library resources in the past due to overdue fines. For more information click here.
*Please note that this only applies to items owned by the Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System. Items belonging to other libraries may still accrue fines.
PARSIPPANY — 99 Everett Road is a single-family home and has four bedrooms and three bathrooms. This property has a lot size of 7,841 square feet. It was listed by Andrea Martone, Realty Executives Platinum. It was sold on March 1 for $805,000.
MORRIS COUNTY — On April 28, in recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week 2022, members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office joined leaders of the law enforcement and the victim advocate community and held a virtual conference to recognize crime victims.
Speakers included Anthony DeVincenzo, M.A., a retired lieutenant from the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office who is currently a Training Specialist with the Northeast Regional Children’s Advocacy Center; Commissioner Deputy Director John Krickus; and Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll. Additionally, a victim speaker recounted her domestic violence victimization experience in order that her story may provide courage for others who are dealing with similar situations.
The virtual conference can be viewed by clicking here to visit the Morris County NJ YouTube page.
Attendees included Diana Kurlander, Vice President, Client Services of JBWS Safety, Support & Solutions Abuse; Maria Lagattuta, Director of the Morris County Family Justice Center / JBWS; Maria Vinci Savettiere, Esq., Executive Director of Deirdre’s House, The Center for Morris County’s Child Victims; Mirella Diaz, Associate Director / MDT Coordinator / Clinician of Deirdre’s House, and Morris Plains Police Chief Michael Koroski.
Marking its 41st anniversary this year, Congress annually declares one week in April as Crime Victims’ Rights Week to honor and recognize crime victims. National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is being observed from April 24-30, 2022. The theme this year is “Rights, Access, and Equity for all Victims.” The theme underscores the importance of enforcing victim rights, expanding access to services, and ensuring equity and inclusion for all victims.
John Krickus
Commissioner Deputy Director Krickus presented the Proclamation recognizing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week approved by the Board of Commissioners.
In keeping with this year’s theme, Morris County Prosecutor Carroll dedicated a stepping stone near the victims’ tree as a symbol for victims taking the first step to healing. The victims’ tree was lit to serve as a beacon of hope during the week. In addition, a wreath adorned with a “2022 in Recognition and Remembrance” ribbon has been placed next to the tree.
Colonel Pat Callahan and Major Phillip Buck as well as other ranking Officers of the New Jersey State Police also attended and provided their support and commitment to the protection and expansion of victim’s rights efforts at all levels of law enforcement.
Morris County Sheriff James Gannon added his perspective that victim’s rights programs are critical in ensuring public trust in the criminal justice system and motivating and reassuring citizen-victims that they can have confidence in coming forward with evidence of crimes.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “Our goals and visions are to continue to expand services so that all victims can access such services and move forward with confidence in the criminal justice system. It bears noting that the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Victim Witness Program has been providing critical services for over 40 years, and has set the standard for victim assistance programs for other counties to follow. All victim witness services need support and funding from our county leadership. Morris County has been blessed with consistent support for these critical programs.”
Anthony DeVincenzo applauded the multi-disciplinary approach utilized in Morris County, “I’m consistently amazed by the passionate and dedicated people who are out there doing the work providing services for children and families. I’d be remiss if I didn’t say especially proud and overwhelmed by the work you’ve been doing in the last two years under what I can only imagine are the most trying of circumstances.”
“When you are bringing together a team of people, leveraging all of their expertise, knowledge, and skills, and providing a coordinated response to those victims and/or their circumstances, you are going to have better outcomes. I’ve seen that in my work in Morris County, and across the country. There will be better outcomes for victims and families.”
National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is intended to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services, highlight programs, celebrate progress achieved, and honor victims, the professionals, and the agencies who serve them.
Keo Ku Korean BBQ Restaurant (Keo Ku Jang) is located at 245 Route 46 East, Parsippany-Troy Hills
PARSIPPANY — If you are a true Korean food aficionado seeking out that exceptional Korean BBQ restaurant, you might want to take the 30–40-mile trip to Bergen County or NYC, where you will find some outstanding venues. Luckily, if you reside in the general Parsippany area, do yourself a favor and skip the trip, and the gas, as Keo Ku BBQ Restaurant, located in a small strip mall on Route 46 East, provides comparable dining and cultural adventure to those more renown locations.
General Manager/Part Owner Brian Kim
Keo Ku BBQ, the first Korean restaurant in Parsippany opened its doors in 1993, owned and operated by the same family for the past 29 years. Current General Manager/Part Owner Brian Kim told me that his father, Jin Kim, and two Uncles, Seung Min and Mun are the initial owners of the restaurant, and now he has joined them to continue this great family business.
On further inquiry, the extremely personable and humble Brian K. explained, “My purpose is to bring authentic Korean food to our guests, offering true, traditional, high quality, fresh, and wholesome food while trying to avoid fusion dishes, which are common in many places. Of course, we offer several creative new dishes to accommodate all our customer’s tastes.” From my point of view, he could not have done a better job of meeting his goals.
Banchan
The entire dinner, from our tantalizing appetizers, assorted banchan, sumptuous entrees, and a highly creative dessert, provided our entire foodie group with an exciting dining adventure. Our highly attentive and genial host, Brian K., took time from his busy day to patiently answer all our questions, explain each serving, and provide helpful recommendations on request. As well as being an exceptional meal, it proved to be an interesting and cultural educational experience enjoyed by everyone.
Keo Ku BBQ is situated on the side of a small strip mall off Route 46 East, just West of New Road. One must watch the easily visible, large red signage leading into the strip mall.
Once entering the attractive entrance, you are immediately impressed with the classy, casual, welcoming, and warm Asian atmosphere throughout the restaurant. It is immaculately clean and spacious, with beautifully arranged seating, decorative wooden partitions separating the rich-looking wooden tables, appointed with traditional Korean eating utensils called Sujeo (수저) (metal chopsticks and long-handled spoon). Unlike other Asian cultures, Koreans use metal chopsticks with squared ends, as opposed to the wooden ones we in the U.S. are familiar with. The interior is softly and comfortably lighted, with soothing-colored walls, furniture, floors, and adornments, perfectly complementing the thoughtfully laid out Korean décor and artifacts throughout the restaurant. You will even find a Koi Pond at the entrance to further enhance the cultural ambiance, along with an interior design reflective of an ethnic, traditional Korean atmosphere. A fun and friendly vibe permeate the entire dining area.
My group of six was comfortably seated in a rear section of the restaurant, set up with nice, large tables, with gas grills in the center of each table with an unobtrusive smoke vent overhead. Each table could easily accommodate 8 to 10 people.
Japchae Noodles
As we perused and discussed the menu, deciding on our appetizers and entrees, we ordered some Terra and Kloud Malt beer (Korean Beers are usually light lagers) while discussing Korean food, culture, etiquette, and history with our knowledgeable host. Eventually, for our shared appetizers we decided on Panjeon 파전 (Scallion and Kimchi Pancakes), Soy Garlic and Spicy Goghujang (spicy red pepper paste) Chicken Wings, Scrambled Egg Korean Style (Gyeranjjim), and Japchae (Sweet Potato Glass Noodles Stir-Fried with Vegetables). The diversity of the tastes, textures, presentation, and aroma of the tangy, salty, sweet, spicy, and flavorful assortment of dishes was mouth-watering and were a tantalizing prelude to what was still to come. It was interesting and exciting to indulge in this satisfying and pleasurable dining experience.
Kimchi
Next out was the Banchan. Traditional Korean meals boast abundant side dishes, called Banchan, a term referring collectively to side dishes in Korean cuisine. Banchan accompanies every meal in Korea and can change daily based on the season, or on the meat or noodle dish you order.
Pat Minutillo
As is tradition, our table was quickly presented with a generous assortment of those side dishes, which included Kimchi (김치), cabbage fermented in a brine of ginger, garlic, green onion, and chili pepper, and Korea’s National dish and served at nearly every Korean meal, assorted vegetables, pickled selections, seafood, bean sprouts, noodles, tofu, rice, dipping sauces and more, that are all part of banchan. Remember, banchan are not an appetizer, but small assorted dishes to complement the main meal.
While we were enjoying the apps and banchan, as well as the camaraderie of sharing this communal meal, our pleasant and accommodating server, Meerah Lee, began to oil and prepare the gas grill, located in the center of each table, for the continuing feast to come.
Meerah expertly prepared the Bulgogi, and accompanying vegetables (불고기). Bulgogi is thinly sliced lean and tender beef, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, sugar, green onions, and black pepper. Next came the Galbi (갈비), grilled beef short ribs, sliced a little thicker than bulgogi. Both meat selections were nicely marbled and were, tasty, juicy, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth savory. The balanced sweet and savory marinade enhanced each bite. As traditionally eaten, I wrapped the marinated meat, along with the gochugaru paste, in one of the large, fresh, crispy, lettuce leaves provided with the meal, and proceeded to eat them in one bite: Korean style. The crunchiness and toothsome texture of the lettuce, with the spicy bite of gochugaru, along with the umami savoriness of the marinated meat was delectable.
I should note that you can order and grill your own entrees if you prefer instead of allowing the Keo Ku staff to do it. I was informed that is the preference of some guests. As for our group, we were more than happy to let Meerah do her thing, and she did it well.
Gopdol Bibimbap
Not wanting to miss another popular Korean dish we ordered the Gopdol Bibimbap (비빔밥), mixed vegetables, ground beef, fried egg over crispy rice, and served in a hot stove bowl, and served with a dollop of chili pepper paste. Crunchy and luscious, spicy, and sweet, with pickled and fermented notes, delicious addition to the meal.
Despite being more than satiated, we could not pass on a special dessert prepared by our host and guide, Brian Kim. Koreans are particularly fond of chips, according to Mr. Kim, so with a little creativity came his Honey Buttered Chip Dessert, which went amazingly well when dipped into vanilla ice cream. Perfect ending to a perfect meal.
Buttered Chip Dessert with Vanilla Ice Cream
Korean food is not only delicious and full of flavor but also embedded in thousands of years of culture. Looking for your next dining adventure? Looking for an educational dining experience? Go no further than Keo Ku BBQ Restaurant.
Private Parking Lot – Free Wi-Fi – Full Bar – Closed Mondays
Also on the Menu: Jeongols (Hot Pots) & Tang-Jjigae (Sours & Stews)
Keo Ku BBQ also offers catering and can accommodate private parties in their Hak (Crane) Room, a private dining room that can seat up to thirty-two people.
The Keo Ku Corner Bar is a bright open space that can accommodate up to forty seats and fifty-plus people for standing room.
Keo Ku Korean BBQ Restaurant (Keo Ku Jang) is located at 245 Route 46 East, Parsippany-Troy Hills. (973) 244-0032. Menu: KoreanbbqNewJersey.com.
PARSIPPANY — It was a little blustery, and a bit chilly, for late April, but that did not detract in the slightest from the anxiously, and long-awaited, anticipated start of the Baseball/Softball season for Par-Try West Little League. You could feel the excitement and joy in the air as a large group of local youth, their parents, and many supporters came out to celebrate the day. It was rewarding and energizing to see all the genuine smiles and laughter on the faces of everyone in attendance as they prepared to kick off the season.
As Yogi Berra said, “Little League is a very good thing because it keeps the parents off the street.” Who can argue with Yogi?
Par-Troy West Little League President, Frank Neglia
The Par-Troy Little League Program was established in 1952, making this the 70th year this program has been serving the community. With an all-volunteer Board of Directors, PTWLL has proven to be an extraordinarily successful self-development, fun, and healthy opportunity for Parsippany’s local children to develop confidence, good friendships, learn life skills, and teamwork, while providing them with a safe environment to assemble and play. The League, which boasts 400+ participants, is appropriately divided into various age divisions into both softball and baseball teams for ages 4 through 15.
Par-Troy West Little League’s President, Frank Neglia, a local Councilman, and President of the Executive Board of Directors since 1996 exudes immense pride and personal satisfaction when asked about the program. Neglia, along with his wife Sandra who serves as a Player Agent, along with eighteen other board members clearly possess a personal passion for the program, and still shows the same exuberance as they did 26 years ago. I guess like Cal Ripken, Jr. said; “You could be a kid as long as you want when you play baseball.”
Neglia stated, “I would like to thank the Township of Parsippany, the Parsippany Recreation Department, Parks, and Forestry, and the Board of Education for their vital support in providing and maintaining the ballfields in town and at the schools during the season.” “That support helps ensure that all our Little Leaguers in both the Par-Troy West and Par-Troy East always have a safe place to play. We are looking forward to another exciting, fun-filled, safe season this year, and we look forward to seeing everyone out there supporting the kids and the League.”
Little Viking Cheerleading Squad
The ceremonies began with some introductory comments by Neglia, who acknowledged and thanked his Board of Directors, volunteers, and sponsors, followed by comments from Mayor James Barberio. Next was the parade of players, as team after team, starting with the youngest T-ball teams, began their trot onto the field to a medley of motivational music, and were cheered on by a special appearance of the Little Viking Cheerleading Squad, and the Parsippany Hill High School Baseball and Softball Team.
Parsippany Hill High School Baseball and Softball Team
Next, the crowd was treated to a beautiful rendition of our National Anthem, sung by Stephanie Chang, and a reading of The Little League Pledge by Ricki Rosetti, one of the League’s youthful players.
Stephanie Chang
Of course, there was that ceremonial first pitch by Parsippany’s Mayor James Barberio, who was enjoying himself as much as anyone in the stadium. After a few more closing comments and presentations it was time to get to the business at hand. Play ball!
Besides the mayor, some of the local dignitaries on hand included Councilman Michael dePierro, Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani, Councilman Paul Carifi, and Councilman Justin Musella.
All of whom also sponsored individual teams. Of course, there were many other local officials and individuals of note on hand as well.
Councilman Paul Carifi, Council President Michael dePierro, Superintendant of Schools Dr. Barbara Sargent, Mayor James Barberio, Neglia, Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani, and Councilman Justin Musellareading of The Little League Pledge by Ricki Rosetti
So, come on out and support and be proud of our local youth. There’s a good chance you are looking at some future major leaguers. You never know! And, to revisit Yogi; “If the people don’t wanna come out to the ballpark, nobody’s gonna stop ‘em.”
Par-Troy Little League West
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Mayor James Barberio with the team he sponsors "Barberio Bombers"
Council President Michael dePierro and his team, dePierro Defenders
Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani and the team she sponsors, Gragnani Gladiators
Councilman Paul Carifi and with the team he sponsors, Carifi Crusaders
Councilman Justin Musella and "Musella's Masters," the team he sponsors
PARSIPPANY — A Red Flag warning has been issued due to the enhanced threat of fire spreading to our area. We’ve been asked a few times….. “What does a Red Flag Warning mean?”A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly due to a combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and dry fuels. Any fires that develop may quickly get out of control and genome difficult to contain.
“So what does this mean for me?” When a Red Flag Warning is issued, everyone should refrain from any type of open flame or improperly discarding certain things. This includes refraining from campfires and fire pits and properly discarding hot coals from BBQs and cigarettes. Anything that has the potential to spark a small fire, should be looked at very closely.
Please make sure to do your part, and if you see a small fire, dial 9-1-1 immediately as the fire may spread and become out of control very quickly. — with Lake Hiawatha District 4 and Parsippany Troy-Hills Fire District 6 in Parsippany.
PARSIPPANY — Members of the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company (Parsippany District Two) conducted a multi-purpose training drill in the corporate park on Cranberry Road, on Monday, April 25.
Members of the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company conducted a multi-purpose training drill. Photo by Captain Keith Lefferts
This location is close to the Parsippany Jannarone Park Sports Fields. If you live near Clearview or Rustic Way you might have seen or heard them as they drilled on arriving quickly at an active fire scene, pumper and aerial ladder truck placement, hose deployment, and using aerial nozzles to supply elevated master streams of high-pressure water.
The techniques they practiced are often used to fight fires in Commercial or Industrial facilities. There are several Commercial and Industrial areas located within the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company fire district.
Four new members participated in the drill.
If you are interested in joining Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company please contact any member or stop by the firehouse, located at One Rainbow Trail, Denville. For non-emergency call (973) 627-0184 any Monday evening.
Members of the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company conducted a multi-purpose training drill. Photo by Captain Keith Lefferts
Jack Shuart from Tree City USA presenting the banner to The Township of Parsippany. File Photo
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio proudly announces that Parsippany has been named ‘Tree City’ for the 46th Year by the Arbor Day Foundation.
The Tree City USA program requires four components: forming a tree board or department, creating a tree-care ordinance, having an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance or proclamation. The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will hold an Arbor Day ceremony at Parsippany Town Hall, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard, starting at 10:00 a.m.
More than 100 New Jersey cities and towns have earned the designation. Some have been “Tree Cities” for decades and others only for a few years or less. Parsippany and Paramus are the only two New Jersey municipalities to earn the honor for 46 years — since the Arbor Day Foundation began awarding “Tree City” statuses in 1976.
“Tree City USA communities benefit from the positive effects that an urban tree canopy has year after year,” said Dan Lambe, the foundation’s chief executive. “The trees being planted and cared for by Parsippany-Troy Hills Township ensure that generations will enjoy a better quality of life.”
The 150th Arbor Day holiday is Friday, April 29. The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will hold an Arbor Day ceremony at Parsippany Town Hall, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard, starting at 10:00 a.m.
A free seedling giveaway will also begin at 12:00 Noon at Parsippany Parks & Forestry, One Knoll Drive, Lake Hiawatha. For more information call (973) 263-7254.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Market Street Mission will be hosting our annual National Day of Prayer event on Thursday, May 5. This year, the event will be held on the Morristown Green at noon. In case of inclement weather, we will meet in the Market Street Mission chapel at 9 Market Street in Morristown.
Please join us in person on the Green to hear from local pastors and leaders as we spend time in worship and lift up our country and community in prayer. If you cannot attend in person, you can find a live stream of the event on the Market Street Mission Facebook page by clicking here.
The National Day of Prayer was first signed into law by President Truman in 1952, and it stands as an annual event dedicated to intentional communal prayer.
This year’s national theme is “Exalt the Lord”, and we would love to have you join with the Market Street Mission to commemorate the day and pray for our nation and our neighbors in need. At the Mission, we believe in the power of prayer, and we see lives changed by God’s love every day. We could not do our work without your prayers and support!
Click here to download a 10-day prayer guide leading up to the National Day of Prayer event. You can also learn more on the National Day of Prayer website by clicking here.
The Market Street Mission is an experienced organization with a proven method of helping to fight alcoholism, substance abuse, hunger, and homelessness in northern New Jersey. As a private non-profit, they rely on the charitable support of compassionate donors to provide more than 110,000 meals and 30,000 nights of shelter per year among three locations.
For more information on their emergency services, free addiction recovery program, community counseling services, and thrift store click here
PARSIPPANY — The Department of Justice announced criminal charges against 21 defendants in nine federal districts across the United States for their alleged participation in various healthcare-related fraud schemes that exploited the COVID-19 pandemic. These cases allegedly resulted in over $149 million in COVID-19-related false billings to federal programs and theft from federally-funded pandemic assistance programs. In connection with the enforcement action, the department seized over $8 million in cash and other fraud proceeds.
“The Department of Justice’s Health Care Fraud Unit and our partners are dedicated to rooting out schemes that have exploited the pandemic,” Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division said.
“Billions of dollars have been spent by the federal government to help individuals and their companies with the economic impact of the COVID-19 epidemic,” U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger, District of New Jersey, said. “Unfortunately, unscrupulous people have stolen millions of dollars through a variety of schemes. We will continue to bring cases to fight this kind of fraud.”
“This COVID-19 health care fraud enforcement action involves extraordinary efforts to prosecute some of the largest and most wide-ranging pandemic frauds detected to date,” Director for COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Kevin Chambers said.
April 20, 2022, the announcement builds on the success of the May 2021 COVID-19 Enforcement Action and involves the prosecution of various COVID-19 health care fraud schemes.
Abid Syed, Taquir Din, Tamer Mohamed, Abdul Rauf, Tauquir Khan, and Nisim Davydov, all of New Jersey, are charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to violate the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute for their roles in an alleged scheme to defraud Medicare by paying illegal kickbacks and bribes of over $250,000 for laboratory tests for COVID-19 pathogen tests. Syed and Din owned and controlled Metpath, a clinical laboratory in Parsippany, which performed and billed Medicare for COVID-19 diagnostic testing. Khan, Mohamed, and Davydov were marketers who supplied thousands of COVID-19 diagnostic tests to Metpath and who received kickbacks and bribes from Syed and Din for doing so.
Metpath is located at 322 Route 46. Click here to download the complaint.
The complaint alleges that Metpath tried to conceal its kickback payments to the marketers through shell companies set up and controlled by Rauf.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney DeNae Thomas of the Health Care Fraud Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey.
The enforcement actions were led and coordinated by Assistant Chief Jacob Foster and Trial Attorney D. Keith Clouser of the National Rapid Response Strike Force, and Assistant Chief Justin Woodard of the Health Care Fraud Unit’s Gulf Coast Strike Force in the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section. The Fraud Section’s National Rapid Response Strike Force and the Health Care Fraud Unit’s Strike Forces (SF) in Brooklyn, the Gulf Coast, Miami, Los Angeles, and Newark, as well as the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Maryland, District of New Jersey, District of Utah, Northern District of California, and Western District of Tennessee are prosecuting these cases.
In addition to the FBI, HHS-OIG, and CPI/CMS, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Department of Defense Office of Inspector General; Department of the Interior Office of the Inspector General; Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General; Food and Drug Administration Office of the Inspector General; Homeland Security Investigations; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General; and other federal and local law enforcement agencies participated in the law enforcement action.
The Fraud Section leads the Health Care Fraud Strike Force. Since its inception in March 2007, the Health Care Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 15 strike forces operating in 24 federal districts, has charged more than 4,200 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for nearly $19 billion. In addition, the CMS, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, is taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across the government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts.
The Department of Justice needs the public’s assistance in remaining vigilant and reporting suspected fraudulent activity. To report suspected fraud, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) at (866) 720-5721 or file an online complaint by clicking here. Complaints filed will be reviewed at the NCDF and referred to federal, state, local, or international law enforcement or regulatory agencies for investigation.
An indictment, complaint, or information is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Parsippany High School Senior Joe Trimetidi signing the National Anthem
Debbie and Dan DeLio stands proudly in front of the sign on the field named in their honor. The field was dedicated on April 17, 2004.
PARSIPPANY — The Par-Troy East Little League celebrated its 60th year at the Saturday morning opening day celebration in Di Leo Field in the Par-Troy East Little League Complex.
The ceremony opened with Parsippany High School Senior Joe Trimetidi signing the National Anthem.
Chris Mazzarella, President Par-Troy Little League East.
“Before we begin I’d like to say thank you to a few people that helped us get here today. The weather rarely cooperates but somehow it comes together in the end for a good day. Without the following people this would never have happened today so thank you Dom Colasuanno, Kevin Hansberry, Paul Furfaro, Todd Finchler, Vin Gallo, John Corforte, Mike Wiznewski, Dave Deckert, John and Tiffany Hiltz, Tracy Gordon, Eric Hubner, Charlene Martin, Pete Bonfanti, Evan MacPhee and Brian Cooper, said Chris Mazzarella, President Par-Troy Little League East.
Mazzarella continued “There’s one more person I’d like to Acknowledge. For the last two or so years, there’s been a lot going on in our world and it’s been less than normal. This person has been the backbone of so many amazing things that Our Town has done in the face of Covid and not once looked for any type of recognition. He’s put in countless hours to help Support Our Town & League and continues to give of himself. I’d like to thank Rich Leitner for being a true friend and a Huge help to make today happen.”
Councilman (And PTW President) Frank Neglia, Councilman Paul Carifi Jr., Council President Mike dePierro, Mayor Jamie Barberio, and Councilman Justin Musella.
Special guests included Mayor Jamie Barberio, Council President Mike dePierro, Councilman Paul Carifi Jr., Councilman (and PTW President) Frank Neglia, and Councilman Justin Musella.
Susan and Joseph Plescia
As many may or not know in 2012 the twelve-year-old Par-Troy East Baseball team was the District, Section, State, and Mid Atlantic Champion and represented PTE at the Little League World Series in Williamsport PA. It’s one of the most difficult things to accomplish especially as a group of twelve-year-old kids dealing with that pressure. I remember first moving into our house and standing on the lawn with my son watching the parade roll by on Vail Rd and saying “Dylan this is something amazing to watch and that’s going to be the Little League you are going to play for.” I had no idea I’d one day be the President and be able to talk about that accomplishment. While we are planning a day later in the season to try and have ALL of the players back here this season and celebrate together we will recognize that team every time our players suit up and take the field. You will notice all of the uniforms being worn by our teams have a decal celebrating the 10-year anniversary of that amazing season and all of our players will where that decal with pride.
Mayor James Barberio addressing the audience
A lot of Blood Sweat and Tears went into that team not just for one season but for many seasons leading up to that season. It also wasn’t just the players that sacrificed time and effort for that success but it was the Parents, Families, Friends, PTE Board members, and of Course the Coaches that gave all they had to make that special season happen. Many of them took days off of work, Drove hours to make sure they had fans at the games supporting the team. Raised Money and scheduled bus trips back and forth so the team knew they weren’t alone and no matter how they did they were heroes. Many tried before and many have tried since but there has only been one.
A special thanks went to coach Ramon Mati (who could not be here today), Coach Ed Philips, and the Manager of the 2012 PTE Little League World Series Team Mike Ruggerio for an accomplishment this league will forever remember.
Parsippany High School
Mozzarella also said “I would like to thank the town leadership, Recreation Dept, Parks and Forestry, and Parsippany-Troy Hils Board of Education for the use of their fields and for all of the support they give our league and our kids to help keep the Complex a safe place to spend time at. Thank you to all of our sponsors without them it would be nearly impossible to maintain and improve the complex. Most of them are local but a few are from out of town. We have so many sponsors who have sponsored for many years that it would take hours to speak about them all. So as you walk around the complex and watch the games please have a look at the banners and team shirts and if possible frequent these establishments and thank them for their support of PTE.”
We’d like to thank the family of Joe Orlando (whom our Softball field is named after) They saw a Facebook message that we were looking for donations to help us purchase a new scoreboard and reached out to us to let us know they would like to purchase the board for us. Families like that keep PTE in their hearts and minds making our complex and town a great place to be!
A big Thank you, to the 2021 9/10 Softball & Baseball All-Star teams for organizing today. I’d like to thank Tracy Gordon, Diana Mazzarella, Charlene Martin, and Teresa Regan for taking the lead on the day and pulling it all together to make it successful as well as all of the parents and families that donated time and gifts for this day
Thank you also to the Kids of PTE because this would be nothing without you! Watching you on our fields laughing, smiling, and having fun is what it is all about.
Mayor James Barberio throwing
the first ball during opening day at Par-Troy Little League East Opening Day
Councilman Justin Musella throwing one of
the first balls during opening day at Par-Troy Little League East Opening Day
Councilman Paul Carifi throwing one of
the first balls during opening day at Par-Troy Little League East Opening Day
Council President Michael dePierro throwing one of
the first balls during opening day at Par-Troy Little League East Opening Day
Councilman Frank Neglia throwing one of
the first balls during opening day at Par-Troy Little League East Opening Day
“And the biggest thank you of all. To my wife Diana and My kids Dylan and Ava. Thank you for understanding the meetings and the time away from home while we are preparing and running the season. Most of all thank you for supporting me in every adventure or endeavor I decide to undertake and some that I decide not to!! I love you guys.”
The ceremony concluded with the recital of the “Little League Pledge”DiLeo field
Joe Jannarone, Sr, (JJ) on the field at Jannarone Park
PARSIPPANY — While most of us living in Parsippany today have visited one or more of the 31 parks maintained by the Township Parks and Forestry Department, very few of us appreciate, or know the history of when these parks were built and how this department was formed.
Fortunately, Mr. Joe Jannarone Sr. (referred to in this article as JJ) is the man that does know, and he has shared the following stories with me, that capture much of this history.
Prior to 1972, the Township of Parsippany did not have a Parks and Forestry Department. JJ, recalls the events and reasons for this department to be formed, how it grew, and the role it has played in helping make Parsippany one of the “best places to live in the country,” according to Money Magazine
In late 1960 the Township of Parsippany had depended on the “shade tree committee” to write the ordinances defining the procedures that property developers needed to follow in order to be issued permits for the removal and replacement of trees. It also stipulated that the work done, needed to be inspected to ensure they were in compliance before they could receive C O O.
Mr. Joe Jannarone Sr.
The ordinance also defined the types of trees that would and would NOT be permitted to be planted on Township property. Unfortunately, the Commission did not have the authority, nor resources needed to enforce this ordinance, so in 1972, Mayor Henry Luther created the position of Township Forrester, who would be responsible for enforcing the
ordinance. JJ was a member of the shade tree committee so the mayor offered him this position. JJ did not want to disappoint his current employer, so he did not immediately accept the offer, after some discussions with his wife Nicki, they agreed that it would be best for his family to have a job that offered retirement and health care benefits.
Shortly after becoming the first Township Forester in 1972, the “shade tree ordinance” was challenged, by a developer that sued the Township and JJ, because they refused to return his deposit because he planted Silver Maples which were one of the “not allowed” species. The developer’s attorney grilled JJ for two days in court, asking the same questions, in different ways, trying to trap JJ, this (did not work) so the judge finally dismissed the case, and the ordinance remains in force today.
After the ordinance was upheld, JJ proposed that a “tree survey” should be done, in order to identify and assess the viability of all the trees on township property. JJ was able to get a Rutgers University student, majoring in Forestry Management, that had been hired by the Recreation Department as a summer intern to help him complete this project. The survey reviled that there were over 600 dead trees and that the township might be liable if any of them fell down causing damage to property or personnel injury, and should therefore be cut down as soon as possible. During the next year’s budget process, JJ proposed adding a new employee to do tree trimming and removal in the township, and operate the bucket truck that was being sold by a tree trimming company in PA, which would cost only $5,000. Once the purchase was approved, JJ went to Pa. so he could personally drive the truck back to Parsippany. This truck was used by the Township for 12 years and then given to the Township of Boonton, what a great investment.
In 1960 the Bradford Callery Pear tree was recommended by the Shade Tree Committee and planted throughout the Sedgfiefld Development. These trees had attracted so many visitors to view their beautiful white blossoms every spring and grew so well, that the Forestry Department planted them in a number of additional areas of the Township. Unfortunately, even though very beautiful and fast-growing, it was discovered after about 20 years that the Bradford species, was the only Callery Pear that had a self-destructive “fatal flaw” because the branch crouches grew too close together. Sadly, today, there are few if any of the Bradford Callery Pear trees that have survived, but many other Callery Pear species have survived.
The National Arbor Society had a program where they distributed tree seedlings to communities around the country. In 1972, as the Township Forrester, JJ established a program where Township distributed seedlings to EVERY third-grade student in Parsippany. He contacted some tree growers and nursery suppliers and learned different types of evergreen/pine trees would be the most reliable, easiest for planting, and least expensive. JJ ordered seedlings from a grower in southern NJ, got plastic bags donated, plus going around and picked up discarded telephone wires from construction sites to tie the bags, and asked some local food stores if they could save some boxes He then had some Cub Scouts and their parents, volunteer to put soil, water, and the seedlings in the bags and then packed them standing up into the boxes, that were then delivered on Arbor Day to ALL the elementary schools in Parsippany. This program is still going on today and is credited with getting over 150,000 trees planted in Parsippany.
The gazebo at Veterans Memorial Park
During 1974 JJ noticed that a number of Township owned properties around town needed some manicuring, so JJ borrowed an older tractor from the Recreation Department and a lawnmower from the Board of Education, which he used on weekends to keep Township properties mowed and manicured.
In 1986 the Forestry and Parks and Recreation Departments were merged and JJ was appointed as the Director of this new department. A few weeks after the departments were merged, JJ recognized that while the parks were being well maintained, most of them did not have adequate playground equipment and were very underutilized by families and kids. To address this issue, merry-go-rounds, slides, swing sets, and bouncy spring animals were purchased and installed in some of the parks, and JJ was very pleased to see a dramatic increase in the number of children and families using the parks.
It was not long after that a woman came into JJ’s office with one of her children who had some disabilities, she asked where she could find a park or recreation areas that were handicap accessible and had playground equipment that they could use? When JJ contacted the companies that manufactured playground equipment, he was shocked to learn that NONE of them made any such equipment. JJ then contacted a medical supply company and discovered that they made a swing that a wheelchair could be put on as well as a bouncy spring animal that had backrests and harness. These two items and picnic tables that are wheelchair assessable were ordered by JJ. Special soft materials were placed on the ground at Knoll Park, and the equipment was installed, making it the first handicap assessable park in the state. The Star-Ledger ran a story about the park, which was picked up by the Associated Press, sparking interest in this issue and bringing national attention for Parsippany. Shortly after this, a gentleman from Bergen County came to see the park and asked JJ if he could help him design a similar park, that he was willing to fund it , and would be the first such facility in that county. JJ also received numerous calls from officials of both large and small cities around the country, it appears that Parsippany and JJ can be credited with starting this wonderful and much-needed initiative.
Another story JJ likes to tell is how the “Victory Garden” came to be. One day a lady called JJ and asked him if there was any place in one of the parks, where she could grow some crops. Unfortunately, this could not be done, but as fate would have it, the Township had just bought some property on Route 202 where they planned to have the Engineering department housed, and yes it had some garden area. JJ was able to expand this area by attaching his personal plow to a Township tractor and then tilling the soil. Paths were made to divide the area into separate plots so people could get to their plots without walking on other people’s. Street signs were made and installed, so residents could locate the plot they had been awarded. When it came time to dedicate the gardens, JJ proposed that they be called the “Victory Gardens”, which was a common name given to community gardens built during World War 2.
Another story JJ likes to tell is how they were able to get flag poles illuminated at Smith Field. JJ observed that the American flag was not being flown on a regular basis and when he asked why this was the case he was told because they were not able to be illuminated, so they had to be taken down every evening and it was too time-consuming to put them up every morning and take them down every evening. JJ negotiated with the electric company to install a new 220-volt electric box, so lights could be installed, that would shine on the flags and therefore could be displayed day and night.
As the Parks and Forestry Department grew, most of their equipment and supplies were stored at Smith Field, and offices for the staff were housed in a converted trailer on Baldwin Road. It was apparent that a facility was needed, where all the departments’ staff and equipment could be housed. JJ determined that the ideal location for such a structure was on the property next to the Knoll Park which was included as part of the Knoll Country Club, purchased by the Township. Unfortunately, this property had been purchased with funds from the State’s Green Acres Fund, which restricted any NEW structures being built. JJ pointed out to the State officials, that equipment and materials are required to maintain all of the parklands in Parsippany, and without a proper storage and maintenance facility, they might not be able to keep them in good condition. After getting approval to build a structure on this site from the State, JJ asked the Township Architect to design a building with offices for Management, a common area for staff, and another large area for equipment storage and maintenance. The Parks and Forestry Building located at 1 Knoll Road Lake Hiawatha was opened in 1990 and is still in use today. The Department manages and maintains a total of 31 Township parks, with the goal of having recreation within walking distance for all Parsippany residents. These parks encompass over 800 acres of land, which far surpasses the nationally accepted standard of one acre of parks for every 100 residents JJ is proud of the fact that 18 of these 31 parks were built and /or improved during the time he was the Director of Parks and Forestry Department. He is particularly proud that the newest park is named in his honor and that Parsippany hosts the largest soccer tournament in the N. E., thanks mainly because there are so many artificial turf fields, which were built under his leadership. While there is a story behind each park project and they all presented some challenges, it is great to see the look of joy on JJ’s face when he talks about the Reynolds Road soccer fields, construction of the bandstand (gazebo), and Memorial at Veterans Field, and Jannarone Park.
JJ is very modest and has always given credit for his accomplishments to the support he received from Township Mayors, Council Representative, Township Administrators, and members of his staff. He is quick to point out that he was fortunate to live in a community that had the resources to provide residents with such outstanding services and facilities. JJ also says that he was so blessed to have the job he had, when he had it, as he never had any budget or request for materials he made denied. I believe that it is the residents of Parsippany that are the fortunate ones to have had a Director of Parks and Forestry that saw things that needed to be done, and only did what he felt was best for us.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, April 2022. Click here to view the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — Mayor James Barberio, Councilman Justin Musella, Council President Michael dePierro, Councilman Frank Neglia, Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen. Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Clerk Khaled Madin joined the local Muslim community of Islamic Community Cultural Center (ICCC) for breaking the fast.
Iftar is one of the religious observances of Ramadan, and is often done as a community, with Muslim people gathering to break their fast together. The meal is taken just after the call to the Maghrib prayer, which is around sunset.
Parsippany is very lucky to call home to many diverse groups, each with their own unique cultures and traditions.
Ramadan began at sundown Saturday, April 2 – marking the annual month in which Muslims from around the world refrain from eating or drinking (yes – even water) from sunrise to sunset.
Because the Islamic year operates on a lunar calendar, Ramadan occurs at a different time each year. While different sects start their month of fasting at different times, this year, it will generally take place from April 2 to May 2. It concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a celebration to commemorate the end of fasting. The holiday is marked by special Eid prayers, gift exchanging, charity and, of course, a feast.
Ramadan is not just about fasting, though. It’s about strengthening one’s relationship with God, doing good for others and connecting with the community. For many Muslims, this year represents the first opportunity since the onset of the pandemic to return to mosque for evening prayers and to break their fast among family, friends and community.
Islamic Community Cultural Center (ICCC) is located at 879 South Beverwyck Road.
The Tidy Titans team of CCM students who won two of three prizes in a recent national data analytics competition, Angela Cavalli, Zach Herman, Maxwell Bilyk, Dylan Jay and Paul Cohen
MORRIS COUNTY — A group of students at County College of Morris, calling themselves the Tidy Titans, recently crushed the American Statistical Association (ASA) national Data Fest competition for community colleges, winning both Best in Show and Best Use of Statistical Analysis.
Coming up winners, earning two of three awards, were Dylan Jay, Mendham; Paul Cohen, Morris Plains; Angela Cavalli, Dover; Maxwell Bilyk, Lake Hopatcong; and Zach Herman, of Denville, all students in CCM’s Data Analytics Certificate Program.
In the weekend-long competition, the CCM team analyzed data provided by the Yale School of Medicine, consisting of 2 million rows and 131 columns, to determine how Elm City Stories – a game-based program that teaches adolescents about making good decisions and avoiding risky behavior – can identify at-risk students.
“Dylan led the team, plowing through the data dictionaries and figuring out what all the codes meant,” says Professor Kelly Fitzpatrick. “Paul spent time helping everyone better understand the games and did a great job demoing the games for the class. Max programmed the analysis in Python, while Angela and Zach worked in R. The team then spent five hours on Sunday finalizing their results. They choose to perform cluster analysis in Tableau after tiding the data in R/Python.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with such a talented team of students for this competition,” says Cavalli of her experience competing in Data Fest. “I have been learning R this semester in Professor Fitzpatrick’s Data Science class, which proved to be very useful to tidy the data we received and present a meaningful takeaway. The experience has motivated me to take my coding skills to the next level.”
Data Fest was founded in 2011 and has grown into a popular and intense competition for undergraduate students from around the nation. “We are so very proud of our students and the knowledge and the skills they have gained,” says Fitzpatrick.
CCM offers a credited certificate program in data analytics. Recognizing the high demand for data analysts, Fitzpatrick applied for and received a $235,000 National Science Foundation grant in 2020 to launch the program. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that data analytic jobs will grow 34 percent by 2026.
The CCM Data Analytics Certificate consists of five courses for a total of 16 credits that can be completed over the course of two semesters. Students in the program learn R, Tableau, Python, and SQL programming languages and are qualified to pursue immediate employment upon earning their certificate. No prior experience in statistics or computer programming is necessary as the program includes an entry-level course in Python and lower-level math pre-requisite statistics and data science courses. To learn more click here.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrolman Remo D'Alessandro, Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani and Patrolman Matthew Ruggier. File Photo
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department is taking back unwanted prescription drugs Saturday, April 30 between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. in front of the Harmon Face Values Store, 3189 Route 46, located in the Morris Hills Shopping Center.
The U.S. Department of Justice and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) coordinates Operation Take Back semi-annually. During Take Back Days, law enforcement at the state, county, and local levels run prescription-drug dropoff locations throughout the nation.
Other Morris County locations include:
Wegmans (34 Sylvan Way, Hanover)
ShopRite of Greater Morristown (178 East Hanover Avenue, Cedar Knolls)
Stop & Shop (245 Littleton Road, Morris Plains)
Ridgedale Middle School (71 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park)
CVS (471 Main Street, Chatham)
CVS (641 Shunpike Road, Chatham Township)
Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and Sheriff James M. Gannon praised Operation Take Back.
“This operation has proven to be extraordinarily successful in helping to prevent the misuse of addictive pharmaceutical drugs,” they said in a joint statement. “The partnership of the prosecutor’s and sheriff’s Offices, in coordination with our municipal police departments and local governments, have proven to be an effective team to lead this most worthy effort.”
In 1960 the Bradford Callery Pear tree was recommended by the Shade Tree Committee and planted throughout the Sedgfiefld Development. These trees had attracted so many visitors to view their beautiful white blossoms every spring and grew so well, that the Forestry Department planted them in a number of additional areas of the Township. Unfortunately, even though very beautiful and fast-growing, it was discovered after about 20 years that the Bradford species, was the only Callery Pear that had a self-destructive “fatal flaw” because the branch crouches grew too close together. Sadly, today, there are few if any of the Bradford Callery Pear trees that have survived, but many other Callery Pear species have survived.
