PARSIPPANY — Westmount Plaza – Arlington Plaza Joint Venture (Application No. 22:516) applied to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board (Minor Site Plan and Subdivision Committee) to construct a loading platform with an open canopy and loading docks at the former Kmart building, located at 808 Route 46.
The plan was approved unanimously.
The building will be subdivided into three retail units containing 25,623 square feet, 25,205 square feet, and 54,024 square feet.
The building has been vacant since the end of 2017 when over 200 Sears and Kmart locations closed.
There was no mention of who the tenants will be occupying the new spaces.
As detailed on January 6, 2020, Parsippany Master Plan, the owner had originally proposed to develop a total of 313 units, 63 of which will be affordable, in a new mixed-use building to replace a former K-Mart store.
Reprinted from Parsippany-Troy Hills Master Plan, dated January 6, 2020
Raequan Houston & Favio Jasso pictured with the Jobs Plus team
MORRIS COUNTY — Twenty-five young adults who’d left high school without graduating stood proud in their caps and gowns last night, all having earned their New Jersey high school diplomas through determination and support from NewBridge Jobs Plus.
About 100 relatives and friends cheered the graduates from Dover, East Hanover, Fairfield Jefferson, Kinnelon, Madison, Mine Hill, Morris Plains, Morristown, Mount Olive, Netcong, Randolph, Roxbury, and Wharton at a ceremony held at the Morristown Beard School.
“Taking that first step toward independence can be a struggle — these NewBridge Jobs Plus associates did that and more!” NewBridge CEO Michelle Borden said. “They sought help along the way and didn’t let challenges get in the way of their accomplishments. Their stories are examples of fortitude, determination, and now, celebration.”
Favio Jasso left Morris Hills High School in Rockaway because he’d missed too many classes to graduate on time. NewBridge Jobs Plus “helped me get ready for life, beyond the academics,” said the 18-year-old from Dover. Jasso was awarded a Parker Endowment Scholarship, funded by retired NewBridge CEO Robert L. Parker.
NewBridge Jobs Plus has helped young adults turn their lives around since 1983, longer than any other such program in Morris County. Participants learn at their own pace, receiving academic support, life and professional skills training, career and college coaching, and counseling to overcome emotional challenges. Located at the NewBridge Parsippany Center, the program is free to area young adults, and transportation is provided to Morris County residents.
Cassandra Reyes pictured addressing the 2022 graduates
Cassandra Reyes, a 2017 NewBridge Jobs Plus graduate, congratulated the Class of 2022 for their accomplishments and urged them to pursue higher education. “You’ve already put your foot in the water so you might as well swim!”
Reyes, the commencement keynote speaker, was a single mom when she graduated and studied biology at Montclair State University for three years. She revised her plans when she had a second child. Reyes is now a nursing student at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Florham Park and works full-time as an emergency room receptionist at Saint Clare’s Hospital in Denville.
“You are going to hit bumps in the road, and that’s OK,” the 23-year-old said. “Remember that life doesn’t have a timeline set in stone.”
Class of 2022 graduate Raequan Houston said the staff at NewBridge Jobs Plus not only helped him with math but taught him about personal finance. “That was a big help,” the 20-year-old said. Houston left St. Benedict’s Preparatory School in Newark as a junior, and got jobs at ShopRite and later FedEx.
Houston mostly kept to himself when he first arrived at NewBridge, but eventually warmed up. “I started to talk a lot more,” the Madison resident said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity NewBridge gave me,” said Houston, who received the Alumni Appreciation Scholarship Award. He intends to study music recording at the County College of Morris.
Jasso had been struggling with depression even before the onset of the pandemic. Sports and time with friends had helped him manage it, but when classes went remote and extracurricular activities were suspended, “I couldn’t take care of myself,” the 18-year-old said.
Jasso immersed himself in his job, creating online marketing content, but neglected other aspects of life, including school and his health. He enrolled in NewBridge Jobs Plus last August. He’d completed all the requirements within three months and earned his diploma.
“There’s a strong sense of community there, and they help you succeed with every aspect of your life,” said Jasso, who lost 30 pounds and launched a freelance business creating web content. Jasso will study business administration at CCM in the fall.
Other scholarship recipients were:
Angelina Spellmon, who received theJames Ryan Memorial Scholarship Award, created in honor of a NewBridge founder
Samantha Rolfes, awarded the Lakeland Bank Scholarship Award
Devin Ortiz, winner of a Parker Endowment Scholarship
“I am so proud of this graduating class, especially for their perseverance during these still uncertain times,” said NewBridge Jobs Plus Director Amy Sheppard. “We feel honored to have been a part of their journey.”
NewBridge Services is a leading provider of counseling services, housing, and educational programs in northern New Jersey, helping thousands of children, adults, and seniors each year. A 501c(3) nonprofit, NewBridge treats mental illnesses and addictions; teaches skills for coping with stress, grief, and challenging relationships; helps children who have been abused and neglected — and their families — heal; builds and manages affordable housing; offers school-based programs that teach children and adolescents resiliency skills for healthy emotional development; helps young adults succeed in their education and prepare for careers; and supports seniors so they can remain independent. Throughout its 59-year history, NewBridge has remained true to its mission of bringing balance to people’s lives by tracking shifts in communities’ needs and providing innovative, effective programs to meet them.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County ranked among “The 25 Healthiest Communities in America” in a new analysis of health and wellness in 3,000 communities across the United States released today by U.S. News & World Report in collaboration with CVS Health.
The “Healthiest Communities” report is the fifth annual analysis conducted by U.S. News & World Report with Morris County consistently ranking among the top. The new report ranked Morris County 16th nationwide and first in New Jersey, just after the county was ranked healthiest in New Jersey in a separate national study released in April by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
“This is wonderful news. Morris County is continuously ranking among the top healthiest places to live in America, and as these studies repeatedly underscore, there are important factors that contribute to these findings,” said Tayfun Selen, Director of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners.
“All of these studies cite our excellent economy and employment opportunities. They note the strength of our education system, our residents’ access to health care and healthy lifestyles, and our access to parks and green spaces. These are aspects of Morris County that all of us in the public and private sectors have worked over the decades to maintain and improve, and I believe these reports inspire us to continue our efforts to make Morris County the best place to live, work and raise a family,” Director Selen added.
The Healthiest Communities rankings from U.S. News & World Report evaluate 89 factors that fuel and form the health of residents across nearly 3,000 U.S. counties and county-equivalents. Counties were assessed on a 100-point scoring system tied to how they perform relative to one another across 10 health-related categories, ranging from education and the economy to community vitality, equity, infrastructure, and public safety. They receive a ranking based on their performance as well.
The broad framework of categories and subcategories was based on factors key to evaluating community health that was identified by the National Committee on Vital and Health Statistics – a policy advisory board to the head of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – as part of its Measurement Framework for Community Health and Well-Being. U.S. News adapted the NCVHS model in consultation with leading population health experts, resulting in most notably in the inclusion of an equity category.
Councilman Frank Neglia, Council President Michael dePierro, Scout Paul Lomelo IV, Councilman Justin Musella, Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Mayor James Barberio and Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani
PARSIPPANY — Paul Lomelo IV, a scout with Troop 173, attended the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council meeting on Tuesday, June 22 to earn his “Communication Badge.”
To earn a communication badge, the scout can select from a list of requirements. The scout can choose to attend a public meeting (city council, school board, debate) where several points of view are given on a single issue.
Paul attends Seton Hall Prep.
Practice active listening skills and take careful notes of each point of view. Then the scout had to prepare an objective report that includes all points of view that were expressed, and share this with their counselor.
Communication focuses on how people use messages to generate meanings within and across various contexts, cultures, channels, and media. The field of communication promotes the effective and ethical practice of human communication.
This badge is one of the many badges the scout must earn before earning Eagle Rank.
Troop 173 offers a wide range of activities and learning experiences for your child that focuses on their continued growth as they progress through the program. They strive to incorporate education, character building, growth, teamwork, and primarily FUN for our Scouts. They are a “Family Friendly” troop that encourages Moms or Dads to attend our meetings, special events, and camping trips so that everyone can experience the fun, together.
For more information on Boy Scout Troop 173, click here.
Dr. Joseph Weisberg and Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council President Michael dePierro
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio presented Dr. Joseph Weisberg with a proclamation and honor him as an extraordinary example of a man who dedicated his life to public service, in his township, state, and country.
Dr. Joseph Weisberg and Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio
Longtime friends gathered recently to wish a Happy 85th Birthday to Dr. Joseph Weisberg. As he is affectionately known, Dr. Joe has served Parsippany on the Board of Education, Township Council, and as Mayor. We all wish him many more happy years ahead!
PARSIPPANY — Mayor James Barberio declared June 3 as “National Gun Violence Awareness Day.”
In January 2013, Hadiya Pendleton was tragically shot and killed at the age of 15; on June 3, 2022, to recognize the 25th birthday of Hadiya Pendleton, people across the United States will recognize National Gun Violence Awareness Day and wear orange in tribute to Hadiya Pendleton and other victims of gun violence and the loved ones of those victims.
The idea was inspired by a group of Hadiya’s friends, who asked their classmates to commemorate her life by wearing orange; the color hunters wear to announce themselves to other hunters when out in the woods.
Anyone can join this campaign by pledging to wear orange on June 3, the first Friday in June in 2022, to help raise awareness about gun violence and renew our commitment to reducing gun violence, and pledge to do all we can to keep firearms out of the wrong hands, and encourage responsible gun ownership to help keep our children safe.
PARSIPPANY — The Community of St. Ann Church in Parsippany is seeking crafters and vendors to participate in our weekend Fall Festival, Ministry and Craft Fair.
This is the twelfth year for the event.
This year’s dates are Friday evening, November 11, 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Saturday, November 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Crafts and vendor products must be handmade or new. Free WiFi is available.
The Craft Fair is held indoors in the Parish Life Center and we have space for 44 tables. The cost is $60.00 (covers both days) for a regular table and $70.00 for a premium (perimeter of the room) table.
They supply a 30” x 72 table and two chairs.
For additional information and to register, contact Vince White at (917) 743-6509 or email stanncraftfair@gmail.com. The festival will also feature Tricky Trays, a Bake Sale, a 50 – 50 raffle, food, and more.
Overboard plays everything from alternative to oldies and adds their own interpretation. File Photo
PARSIPPANY — The township’s fireworks show will take place Monday, July 4 (rain date Tuesday, July 5) at Parsippany Hills High School. Hometown band Overboard will take the stage at about 7:30 p.m. Fireworks will start at dark, at approximately 9:30 p.m.
Parsippany Hills High School is located at 20 Rita Drive.
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills was scheduled to hold the first reading of the 2022 Township Budget at the Township Council meeting on Tuesday, June 21.
Upon receiving and publishing the agenda (Click here to read the related article), the budget was not mentioned as one of the items on the agenda.
Parsippany Focus sent an email to Mayor James Barberio and the Township council asking:
Why isn’t the budget on the agenda?
Will it be introduced? If not why?
“The budget can’t be introduced until it’s certified by the Township Auditor,” said Council President Michael dePierro. The auditor recommended changes to be incorporated into the budget and will be reviewed by the finance committee. The committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday and consists of Mayor James Barberio, Councilman Frank Neglia, Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani, Business Administrator Fred Carr, and Chief Financial Officer Juan Uribe. (Parsippany’s Chief Financial Officer Juan Uribe is on vacation in the Dominican Republic until July 5.)
“When I left office at the end of 2017, incoming Mayor Soriano inherited $23 million in surpluses. When I returned to the office on January 1 of this year, I was left with virtually no surpluses. Mayor Soriano’s fiscal mismanagement of our Township’s finances has set Parsippany way back – and it’s going to take some time to put our fiscal house back in order and that is why it has taken so long to introduce the budget,” said Mayor James Barberio.
“It was planned to be introduced at the June 21, 2022 meeting. After further review, I and the Township Auditor agreed to have one more Budget Committee meeting to strategize and put forth the best budget not only for 2022 but for the future budgets,” continued Mayor Barberio.
Councilman Justin Musella stated “Council President dePierro has indicated a budget that is not certified by our Township auditor will not be put on the agenda. Our Township auditor has not yet certified the budget proposed to them.”Musella said, “I’m hopeful that the administration will satisfy the objections of the auditor in order for a legal budget to be presented to us to review.”
Most likely the budget will not be heard until Chief Financial Officer Juan Uribe returns from vacation on July 5. The next regularly scheduled Council meeting is on Tuesday, July 5. The Council President can call for an emergency Council meeting so the budget can be heard once reviewed by the CFO.
Note: At the time this article was published we did not hear from Councilman Frank Neglia, Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., or Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Education Foundation is hosting the Tom Ladas Memorial 3v3 Youth Soccer Tournament on Saturday, July 30 at the Parsippany Hills High School Athletic Fields. There will be boys and girls divisions in 4 age groups (U10, U12, U14, and High School). The cost is $175.00 per team. Teams of three to six players can find more details and register online by clicking here. All teams will be guaranteed three 24-minute games. Come out for a fun day with friends supporting a very local cause!
This event is a fundraiser for the Parsippany Education Foundation which has provided over $400,000 in grants to Parsippany-Troy Hills’ 14 district schools over the past 25 years. PEF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1996 to enrich the opportunities and experiences of students in the Parsippany-Troy Hills School District.
Student volunteers are also welcome to help out with refereeing at this event. Letters acknowledging hours of service will be provided to all volunteers. If you are a rising 7th grader or older and have any level of soccer playing experience, you can volunteer to referee by filling out this form by clicking here.
MORRIS COuNTY — At the annual Morris County Bar Association Installation & Awards Dinner held on June 16, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood was honored with the MCBA’s 2022 Criminal Practice Award.
The Criminal Practice Award is given annually to an attorney member of the MCBA who has elevated the criminal practice by service to the practice, professionalism, and dedication to fostering the relationship between attorney practitioners and the bench.
Maggie Calderwood has served as the First Assistant Prosecutor to Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll since January 4, 2021.
She has been an attorney for thirty years and has served as an Assistant Prosecutor for twenty-eight, specifically with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office for the last twenty-five. She is recognized as a Certified Criminal Trial Attorney by the Supreme Court of New Jersey since 2011. Prior to her appointment as First Assistant Prosecutor, she held the title of Chief Assistant Prosecutor for five years and managed the Tactical Division, including the Major Crimes, Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment, and Domestic Violence Units, and the Courts & Administration of Division, including the General Investigations and Pretrial Services Units.
Prior to that, FAP Calderwood held the title of Executive Assistant Prosecutor for five years and managed the entire legal staff. During her career, she was also the Supervising Assistant Prosecutor of the Professional Standards Unit, the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, and the Trial Division.
FAP Calderwood handled numerous high-profile, complex jury trials involving Murder, Aggravated Manslaughter/Vehicular Homicide, and Aggravated Sexual Assault cases with adult and child victims. Since January 2020, FAP Calderwood has served as Co-Chair of the Morris County Bar Association’s Criminal Practice Committee.
She was honored by the Superior Court of New Jersey, Morris/Sussex Vicinage, and the Morris/Sussex County Bar Association for contributions to the justice system as part of the “Women Pioneers in the Law” exhibit displayed in the Morris County Courthouse in May of 2019.
FAP Calderwood has received numerous office commendations over the years for her following work: “Challenging and Arduous Task in Preparing for and Implementation of Criminal Justice Reform” (2017); “Successful Prosecution of Anthony Novellino Convicted of Brutally Murdering his Wife” (2014); “Irish Heritage Month Celebration Recognition for Accomplishments in the Field of Public Service” (2010); and “Recognition and Appreciation for her Contribution and Commitment to Strengthen the Community Response to Sexual Assault” (2005). In May of 2005, FAP Calderwood was honored by the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) and received the “Leadership Award: In Recognition of Leadership and Commitment to the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit”.
Throughout her prosecutorial career, FAP Calderwood has often lectured on various legal and law enforcement topics at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, local schools, and the community at large. Before joining the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in 1997, she began her legal career with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office in 1994. While there, she was assigned to Appellate, Juvenile, Predisposition Court, and the Trial Team in which she represented the State in numerous jury trials.
FAP Calderwood earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from Moravian College in 1988 and her Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University School of Law in 1992, where she received the Pro Bono Services Award from the Center of Social Justice while interning with the Essex County Public Defender’s Office. After graduating from law school, FAP Calderwood served as the judicial law clerk to the Honorable Stephen F. Smith, Presiding Criminal Judge of the Superior Court in Morris County. Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll said, “After my appointment, I reviewed the MCPO staffing and specifically was pleased to learn that our office had several supervisory prosecutors who have consistently demonstrated outstanding dedication, skills, and professionalism in their decades of service to Morris County citizens.
Maggie, however, was uniquely impressive due to the scope and importance of her skills and past assignments. Although incoming Prosecutors typically bring in new First Assistants, I believe it difficult to match Maggie’s qualifications, spirit, and institutional knowledge, all of which made her the perfect choice to be my First Assistant Prosecutor. Since her appointment, Maggie has been outstanding in my administration. I am proud that the Morris County Bar Association has recognized this fine lady for all she has given to the MCPO, the Bar, and our communities.”
First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood said, “It means so much to me to receive this award from the Bar Association. I am very fortunate to work with such dedicated and talented assistant prosecutors, defense attorneys, and judges. I am also honored to be Prosecutor Carroll’s First Assistant and learn from him daily. I am lucky to be able to continue my career practicing criminal law in Morris County under his leadership.”
Justin Carifi inside the giant bubble, bouncing around like beach balls, bouncing off his friends. File photo
PARSIPPANY — On behalf of the students, parents, and staff members involved with Project Graduation for the Class of 2022 they would like to thank the supporters for their continued support of this activity. All contributions are used to defray the costs of supplies, rental fees, and entertainment.
Because of your continued support, Project Graduation in Parsippany is a success. The parents, students, and staff of the Class of 2022 thank you for your continued support!
All Cyber-System Inc – Mr. Godfrey Church
Anthony and Sons
Applebee’s of Parsippany
Baldwin Bagels
Baldwin Pizzeria Group, Inc.
Bedding Shoppe
Brooklawn Middle School
Caggiano Orthodontics, LLC
Central Middle School
Christine Karpack
Dr. Randy A. Spector
Dunkin Donuts
Eastlake Elementary School
EL&N – RT. 10
Election Fund of Michael J. DePierro
Empirical Labs, Inc.
Family Medicine of Morris
Foodtown
Frank Neglia, Town Council
FRWD Logistics, LLC
Fuddruckers
GFWC Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills
Gourmet Café
Gripp Plumbing & Heating, LLC
Hills of Troy Neighborhood Association
I.B.E.W. Local Union No. 102
IHOP
Intervale Elementary School
Investor Savings
Irene & Thomas Morris
James N. Greenlees
Jerry & Kelly Lustig
Kathryn & William Masters
Kiwanis Club of Parsippany Foundation, Inc.
Lake Hiawatha Swim Club, Inc.
Little Vikings Football, Inc.
Littleton School PTA
Lake Hiawatha Elementary School
Lake Parsippany Elementary School
M&T Bank Parsippany
Michael Konner Corporation
Mt. Tabor Elementary School
Northvail Elementary School
Onyx Equities
Parsippany Municipal Alliance Council
Parsippany Foot & Ankle, LLC
Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge No. 2078
Patricia & Christopher Giro
Paul Miller Porsche
Pomptonian Food Services
Priola Funeral Service, Inc.
PTF Sports
Qin House, LLC
Rockaway Meadow Elementary School
Saint Peter the Apostle Church
Senthil Mahalingam and Kavipriya Senthil Kumar
Severna Operations, Inc.
Shoprite of Parsippany STARS
Starbucks of Parsippany
Stop & Shop of Morris Plains
Target
Troy Hills Elementary School
Veterans of Foreign Wars – Post 10184
Virginia Henrickson
Wegman’s
Councilman Justin Musella, Frank Neglia, Paul Carifi, Jr.
Council President Michael dePierro and Vice President Loretta Gragnani
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 21
Regular Township Council Meetings will commence at 7:00 p.m. All meetings will be held on Tuesday evenings. All meetings will be held in the Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard, Parsippany. Formal action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for a meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours prior to the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to make a request for an auxiliary aid.
Mayor James R Barberio
Councilman Paul Carifi Jr.
Councilman Frank Neglia
Council President Michael J. dePierro
Council Vice-President Loretta Gragnani
Councilman Justin Musella
PARSIPPANY — The honor and distinction of the Eagle Scout rank can only be achieved through hard work and commitment to the ideals of the Scouting movement. The achievement is so rare, that only 5% of Scouts earn the Eagle rank. Since its introduction in 1911, the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by more than two million Scouts.
Once a Scout advances to Eagle Scout, they will remain an Eagle for the rest of their life regardless of age or participation in Scouting. Eagle Scouts are expected to set an example for other Scouts and to become the leaders in life that they have demonstrated themselves to be in Scouting. As such, they have disproportionately represented in the military, service academy graduates, higher education and academia, major professions, the clergy, business, and politics.
On Sunday, June 12, Parsippany welcomed three Scouts who advanced to Eagle, Tyler Catapano, Andrew Modin, and Matthew Rankel.
The pathway to Eagle can be described as a steep trail leading up to three peaks, the highest being that of Eagle Scout. Officially, the trail starts with the Tenderfoot rank and continues through Second and First Class ranks. Then, mountain climbing begins. The path is marked by merit badges, leadership responsibilities, service projects, and the practice of Scouting skills and ideals. The first peak reached is that of Star Scout, the second is Life Scout, and, finally, Eagle Scout.
On Sunday, June 12, Parsippany welcomed three Scouts who advanced to Eagle, Tyler Catapano, Andrew Modin, and Matthew Rankel.
Senior Patrol Leader Nick Shatynski
Committee Chair Bruce Benson welcomed the guests to The Eagle Court of Honor. Opening remarks were presented by Senior Patrol Leader Nick Shatynski along with the Flag Salute, the Scout Oath. Special Community Presentations was presented by Assistant Senior Patrol Leader Jonah Lance. Advancement Chair Jaime Ackerman certified the Eagle Candidates.
Advancement Chair Jaime Ackerman certified the Eagle Candidates. Pictured are Tyler Catapano, Jaime Ackerman, Andrew Modin, and Matthew Rankel.
The Eagle Badge presentation was presented to Tyler Catapano, Andrew Modin, and Matthew Rankel by Tom Stearns.
The Eagle Charge was presented by Past Scoutmaster Les Wu, and the Scoutmasters Benediction by Dave Franz.
Eagle Scout Recognition Ceremony Honors Three
1 of 10
Rotary Club President BettyLou DeCroce, Andrew Modin and Rotary member Michael dePierro
Rotary Club President BettyLou DeCroce, Tyler Catapano and Rotary member Michael dePierro
Tyler Catapano, Richard Kunz and Andrew Modin
Tyler Catapano, Mary Ann Burke, Parsippany-Troy Hills Womans Club and Andrew Modin
Tyler Catapano, Ryan Porcelli representing Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge 2078 and Andrew Modin
Tyler Catapano, Michael Vitale, Parsippany Knights of Columbus and Andrew Modin
Tyler Catapano, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Andrew Modin, and Matthew Rankel
Tyler Catapano, Councilman Frank Neglia, Andrew Modin, Matthew Rankel and Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Michael dePierro
Tyler Catapano, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill, Andrew Modin, and Matthew Rankel
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Carol Tiesi,
Tyler Catapano, NJ District Kiwanis Lt. Governor Division 9 Frank Cahill, Andrew Modin, and Matthew Rankel
Matthew Rankel
Matthew started his journey through Scouting in Pack 142. He moved up to Troop 173 after receiving the Arrow of Light award. Matthew attended the National Jamboree in 2017, participating in BMX, mountain biking, and patch trading activities. He also attended Philmont this past summer, which was a 54-mile backpacking trek. He also attended many Troop 173 Big Trips such as Philadelphia, Rhode Island, and Washington D.C.
Matthew Rankel and his mom Christine
Matthew took his first position as an Instructor, teaching younger Scouts the skills they would need while camping. As Patrol Leader, he led a small group of Scouts; eventually becoming an Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, where he helped lead the entire troop. To improve his leadership skills, Matthew attended National Youth Leadership Training (NYL T) in 2018. He also returned to staff the program for two years. He has received the National Outdoor Award for camping, accumulating over 120 nights camping, and he has also received the Patriots Path Council Silver Community Service Award.
For Matthew’s Eagle Project, he led a restoration of the Glacier Hills Monument located on Route 10. This included painting the structure, repainting the letters on its side, repairing the retaining wall, and installing a traffic bollard to prevent damage to that wall. Matthew was led to a successful project by his Eagle Coach Tom Stearns.
Matthew is now a Senior at the Academy for Biotechnology at Mountain Lakes High School and plans on studying business at Clemson University.
Matthew is a Mountain Lakes Lacrosse team member that won the County and State Championships this year. He was also involved in the National Honor Society, the World Language Society, and the DECA Competitive Business Club. Matthew was a founding member of DECA at Mountain Lakes High School and held several key leadership positions including the Vice President of Career Development, the Vice President of Leadership, and President in his senior year. He received many regional awards, placed third in the NJ State Competition, and was a four-time National Qualifier. Overall, in Scouting, Matthew has learned to love nature through his many trips and adventures with his friends. He also enjoys camping, hiking, backpacking, sports, and skiing. Boy Scouts has taught Matthew a lot about himself and what he is able to accomplish with focus, drive, determination, and support from his friends and family. Matthew has earned 22 merit badges:
American Cultures Electricity, Camping*, Canoeing, Citizenship In Community*, Citizenship In The Nation*, Citizenship In World*, Communication*, Cooking*, Environmental Science*, Family Life*, Fingerprinting, First Aid*, Disabilities Awareness, Lifesaving*, Personal Fitness*, Personal Management*, Rifle Shooting, Metalwork, Swimming*, Wood Carving, and Shotgun Shooting.
Matthew Rankel
Andrew Modin
Andrew began his Scouting journey in Cub Scout Pack 5 where he earned the Arrow of Light award and crossed over to Troop 173 in Parsippany. He advanced and grew in his Scouting career under the guidance of Scoutmasters Les Wu, Mike Catapano, and David Franz. Andrew has attempted to give back to Scouting through his various leadership positions including Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader, Troop Guide, OA Representative, and Den Chief.
Andrew Modin with his parents, Christopher and Sara Modin
Andrew has been active in many of the Troop 173 trips through his attendance in multiple Big Trips to places like Washington D.C. and Rhode Island; the 2017 National Jamboree; and two separate Philmont treks in New Mexico. Andrew also participated in National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) in August of 2017 and is currently serving his fifth year on the NYL T staff as a Senior Patrol Leader of a June/July Troop. In addition, Andrew has accumulated 170 total camping nights; 285.5 total service hours; received four Gold and one Silver Camping National Outdoor Award; two 50 Miler awards; and the Den Chief Service Award. He has also earned the Patriots Path Council Gold Community Service Award.
For Andrew’s Eagle Scout project, he led several of his friends and fellow Scouts in the construction of a Rest Area at the Historical Parsippany Rock House under the mentorship of his Eagle Coach, Bob Moravsik. In this project, he cleared overgrowth and constructed a robust gravel area with benches and a table to allow anyone a place to admire the structure before enjoying the nearby hiking trails.
Andrew is currently a Senior at the Academy for Biotechnology in Mountain Lakes High School with ambitions to study chemical engineering in college. In school, he is involved with the track and field and cross-country teams while taking part in clubs like Key Club, National Honor Society, and DECA for which he earned three National Qualifications in Principles of Marketing, Food Marketing, and the Entrepreneurship Business Challenge. in Scouting, Andrew has learned to love the outdoors alongside friends through hiking, camping, and fishing with hopes to remain involved in the Scouting program in the future.
Andrew has earned 21 merit badges: American Cultures, Basketry, Camping*, Canoeing, Citizenship In Community*, Citizenship In Nation*, Citizenship In World*, Communication*, Cooking*, Environmental Science*, Family Life*, Fingerprinting, First Aid*, Leatherwork, Lifesaving*, Personal Fitness*, Personal Management*, Rifle Shooting, Small Boat Sailing, Swimming* and Wood Carving.
Andrew Modin
Tyler Catapano
Tyler began his Scouting experience in Cub Scout Pack 142, earning the Arrow of Light award. He joined Troop 173 in fifth grade and quickly advanced through the first few ranks with the help of Senior Patrol Leaders Rishi Konkesa and David Albin. He worked his way up the ranks starting as an Assistant Patrol Leader, soon after became a Patrol Leader, then Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and led the Troop as the Senior Patrol Leader.
Tyler Catapano, with his parents Michael and Kimberly
Over the years Tyler has been very active with Troop 173 attending Big Trips to Philadelphia, Rhode Island & Washington D.C., attending National Youth Leadership Training (NYL T), was a summer camp Senior Patrol Leader, and completed his ordeal to become a member of the Order of Arrow. In 2017, Tyler attended the BSA National Jamboree in West Virginia meeting and learned about Scouts from across the country. This past summer Tyler attended Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico where he was the Chaplains Aid for his Crew. During this capstone adventure, he was able to apply all the skills he learned throughout his time in Scouting. Tyler received the National Outdoor Award for camping accumulating over 120 nights camping. In addition, he has twice earned the Patriots Path Council Gold Service Award. For his Eagle project, Tyler worked with his Eagle coach and mentor, Tom Stearns, and worked with The Morris County Parks Commission where he constructed bird boxes for the American kestrel population of the Morris County Parks. The bird boxes were installed in parks across Morris County.
Tyler is currently a Senior at Delbarton School where he was the captain of the swim team, won the gold in the 200 Freestyle Relay at the Morris County Championships this year and earned all-conference recognition. Tyler was a part of the Golf team his junior year and was involved in a number of other activities. Outside of school and Scouting Tyler was an ocean lifeguard with the Beach Haven Beach Patrol for the past three summers, patrolling the beach and participating in lifeguard competitions for the Beach Haven Beach Patrol team. Over the past ten years, Tyler has been part of Games with Friends where he has been a peer leader for special needs children from kindergarten to 8th grade. Tyler enjoys camping, hiking, fishing, skiing, sports, and time with his family at the beach. He has gained an appreciation and love for the outdoors through Scouting. This fall Tyler will be attending the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he aspires to become an officer in the United States Army.
Tyler has earned 21 merit badges: Basketry, Camping*, Canoeing, Citizenship In Community*, Citizenship In Nation*, Citizenship In World*, Communication*, Cooking*,
Environmental Science*, Family Life*, Fingerprinting, First Aid*, Kayaking, Lifesaving*, Personal Fitness*, Personal Management*, Rifle Shooting, Shotgun Shooting, Small Boat Sailing, Swimming*, and Wood Carving.
Tyler Catapano
A reception was held afterward, both inside and outdoors, to congratulate them and their families.
Troop 173 was chartered by the Sedgefield Civic Association in 1957. Yet from the beginning, Troop 173 has included boys from all over Morris County in its programs. While most of our members come from the area of Parsippany from Lake Parsippany to Powder Mill and across the Township, we have had members as far away as Succasunna and Randolph.
Boy Scouts of America Troop 173 Eagle Scout Honor Roll includes Norman Schofield, Jr., Michael Gottschalk, James Searing, Geoffrey Brown, John Chervenak, Guy Corbett, Tim Corbett, Robert Burney, Juan Correa, Richard Lauber, Tim Roche, Christopher Callahan, Thomas Cook, Stephan Pirylis, Brian Stewart, Patrick Roche, Edward Chiorazzi. Brian Pomarlen, Simon Healey, Keith Henderlong, David Chezem, Alex Lin, Robert Strechay, Jr., John Oleske, Daniel Strechay, Joseph Strechay, Kevin Smithers, Joseph Stevens, James Ward, Jason Viglione, Michael DeGuarde, Michael Smith, Tim Foster, Christopher Malcolm, Mark Viglione, Gary Hwang, William Barcliffe IV, Jonathan Cook, Daniel Aguanno, Anthony Valvano, Eric Kratz, David Kratz, Thomas Corigliano, David Kinskey-Lebeda, Ryan Diggle, Mike Fulton, Dan Fulton, Brian Galley, Shane Moravsik, Paul Rossnagel, Jesse Garbarino, Shay Grabinsky, Sean Galley, Matthew Breeman, Ryan Barwick, Dylan Grabinsky, John Stretavski, Brendan Barwick, Eric Galley, Bobby Ebel, Sean Michie, Michael Ludwig, Matthew Luther, Chris Gardner, Chris Worthington, Cameron Boone, Daniel Metcalf, Rishi Konkesa, Noah Munn, Erik Darling, Thomas Catapano, Daniel Corcoran, Colin Aguesseau, David Dodd III, Michael Gaudio, Galen Wu, Timothy Metcalf. David Albin, Ryan Porcelli, Jack Summa, Anthony Paterno, Chris Neumann, Alex Geddes, David Sinchi, Kyle Cipkins, Anli Liu, Joseph Messana, Evan Vojta, Matthew Sinchi, Sreemanth Meka, Dylan Franz, Jacob Kaplan. Ethan Geddes, Andrew Modin, Matthew Rankel, and Tyler Catapano.
(*Eagle Required Badge)
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, July 2022.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio and Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Michael dePierro along with officials from PARQ attended the groundbreaking ceremony. In addition Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee Frank Cahill, from Vice-Chairman Dr. Bhagirath Maheta and member Michael Pulsinelli.
PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, June 15 Parsippany’s newest redevelopment broke ground for 500 Parq Lane, in the former Lanidex Plaza off Parsippany Road.
Artist’s rendering on PARQ Lane
Parq will be a unique multi-generational luxury community consisting of townhomes, multi-family residences, retail, outdoor trails, open space, and indoor amenities.
PARQ is a distinctive, emerging multi-generational community in Parsippany. This new, authentic neighborhood is welcoming and humble. Unique and timeless in every regard. Nestled in northern New Jersey, PARQ is ideally located near all major interstates. An upscale experience in a down-to-earth environment. At PARQ, the best is yet to come.
Upon entering the community, you will be greeted with tree-lined streets leading to our first residential building.
Located at 500 Parq Lane, the building will feature an elegant reception area and grand lobby with relaxing chairs, sofas, and a fireplace – perfect for curling up with a good book or listening to a podcast. When work calls, you don’t have to go far. This building offers onsite co-working spaces with plenty of seating and a plug-and-play environment. Looking for something more elaborate? The sports lounge offers the perfect prelude to a night well spent. Cap it all off with a dip in the courtyard’s crystal blue pool.
Demolition of the old office buildings in Lanidex Plaza to make room to build PARQDemolition of the old office buildings in Lanidex Plaza to make room to build PARQDemolition of the old office buildings in Lanidex Plaza to make room to build PARQ
MORRIS COUNTY — Members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office joined thousands of other members of law enforcement throughout New Jersey to participate in the annual fundraising and awareness event, Law Enforcement Torch Run For Special Olympics New Jersey, on June 10, 2022.
Every year, law enforcement personnel from agencies across New Jersey carry the “Flame of Hope” throughout the state and into the Special Olympics New Jersey Summer Games at the College of New Jersey in Ewing.
This year, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office members ran from Headquarters Plaza in Morristown into Morris Township on Mt. Kemble Ave. and past Harter Road, where the Torch was passed over to other participants waiting to continue the journey southward.
Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said, “The value that the Law Enforcement Torch Run contributes to its cause, in both public awareness and monetary terms, cannot be overstated. The participation in this event by members of this office and the countless other members in New Jersey law enforcement is simply another display of their commitment to those they serve and society as a whole.”
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker officially sworn in Sean Verbist as Detective for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, on June 13.
He has been assigned to the General Investigations Unit within the Courts and Administration Division.
Prior to joining the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Detective Verbist served as a Police officer for the Montclair Police Department, a Police Officer for the Randolph Police Department, and a Police Dispatcher for Montclair Township.
He has also served as a Park Ranger for Paramus, Substitute Security Person/Custodian for the Rockaway Township Public Schools, Camp Counselor for Paramus, and a Volunteer Police Reserve Officer for Paramus.
Detective Verbist has attended Ramapo College of New Jersey, Bergen Community College (BCC), and Montclair State University (MSU), earning an Associate’s Degree from BCC in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor’s Degree from MSU in Justice Studies.
In addition, he is a graduate of the Morris County Police Academy and has completed several professional training courses. Prosecutor Carroll said, “The addition of Detective Verbist to our ranks is the continuation of our plan to staff the office with personnel who bring a wide array of talent and experience, and we welcome him to our team.”
To earn a communication badge, the scout can select from a list of requirements. The scout can choose to attend a public meeting (city council, school board, debate) where several points of view are given on a single issue.
