PARSIPPANY — Last week, the Parsippany Board of Education published a false statement claiming that the township is ending the School Resource Officer (SRO) program, a shared service that provides police officers for Parsippany schools. The Township put out a statement correcting this false claim (Click here to read the article). Mayor Soriano is a strong supporter of the SRO program and is looking forward to continuing the agreement for years to come.
The Board’s blatant lie about the township’s position serves a single purpose: to further the Council campaign of Board President Frank Neglia.
Neglia clearly believes that his campaign is well-served by lying about the SRO program. Parsippany has seen this type of deception tried before; it’s no coincidence that Neglia is running on a ticket with former Mayor James Barberio, and intends to return the Inglesino-Barberio administration to office. However, using the safety of our students as political pawns is a new low.
“To be clear: I fully support renewing the SRO program and Class III officers,” said Mayor Michael Soriano. “The SROs are more than just police officers. They are trained in understanding teenagers and have built trust with the youth in this community. The program needs to be fully funded. The only conversation happening is how it will be funded between the Board of Education and Township of Parsippany Troy-Hills.”
Mayor Soriano continued, “Negotiating through the press is a childish and dangerous practice. I am calling on Board President Frank Neglia to stop using our students as political footballs, and start treating our schools and children’s safety with the seriousness it deserves.”
That the Board’s statement invokes tragedies such as Columbine, Sandy Hook, and Parkland to further Neglia’s political agenda is perhaps the most disgusting tactic ever used in the tortured history of Parsippany politics.
If Frank Neglia is unable to balance his position as Board President with his Council campaign, then he does not deserve to hold either office. Parsippany voters deserve honesty and accountability from their elected officials, not Inglesino-style politics. By using education resources to publish politically motivated lies, Neglia is setting a rotten example for our children from the Board of Education dais.
Editors Note: This article was submitted by Parsippany NJ 2021 Campaign which consists of Soriano For Mayor and Herbig and Hernandez for Council.
PARSIPPANY — Betty Lagitch, Co-Chair for Membership, installed new member Kathy Reilly on Monday, January 27 at the General Meeting of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills.
Kathy joins an enthusiastic group of volunteers brought together in fellowship and service to promote projects that produce positive outcomes in the areas of education, culture, and civic betterment of the community
New members are always welcome to join the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills, established in 1954. Our club is one of over 200 clubs that make up the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC.
NJSFWC is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. For more information call Marilyn at (973) 539-3703, e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com, check us out on the web by clicking here or follow the club on FACEBOOK.
It was a truly fun and entertaining learning experience deciding on how long to cook and prepare our chosen items
PARSIPPANY — If you were a Mongolian horseman 800-900 years ago, under the tutelage of Genghis Khan, cold, and hungry, you probably used your ornate iron and leather hardened helmet as a vessel to simmer some broth over an open fire, then threw in some chunks of meat, probably mutton or horse, to get fortified so you were ready to attack your next village. The origins of Hot Pot can be traced back to those roots and have since subsequently spread throughout China. In fact, if you happen to be walking down a street in some cities in China, or throughout Asia, you may find Hot Pot eateries as popular as our own fast-food burger joints.
Key Lin, Patrick Minutillo and Car Sun Lin
In the summer of 2016, Parsippany became the home to just such an eatery, offering Asian fusion cuisine with the opening of the V-YAN Hot Pot & BBQ, located in the Arlington Plaza right off Route 46 Westbound. V-Yan translates to “a party” according to our server. Some may remember that location as the old Blockbuster store. Although Hot Pot has its origins in China, the BBQ this restaurant offers refers to the popular Korean cuisine method of grilling meats, fish, chicken, pork, etc. at the dining table itself. I would guess the Korean barbecue (gogi-gui) origin story goes back as far as Hot Pot’s and is assuredly just as interesting, but it really only became popular in its current style, complete with plenty of Western influences, since the 1980s. If you are unfamiliar with Korean BBQ, it is quite dissimilar from the low and slow style of American BBQ you may be used to. Instead of large cuts of meat, like brisket and ribs, which are slowly smoked, Korean BBQ is centered around pieces of various meats and chicken that are skewered and grilled.
Since Hot Pot, sometimes called Steamboat, is a social, communal, interactive feast that is best experienced with friends and family, I invited a couple of foodie friends to join me for my first visit to this kind of cuisine, and I was looking forward to this new dining experience. And, although hot pot, steaming cuisine is traditionally enjoyed during the coldest months of winter, we chose to time our visit while in the middle of a summer heatwave. As it turns out, it did not matter, the restaurant was comfortably air-conditioned and we had a great time.
The interior was impressive, laid out thoughtfully with black counter comfortably separated tables, bright calming colors throughout, clusters of bright overhead hanging lamps, and soft acoustic music playing in the background
When you arrive, you are met with a very architecturally appealing, glass-front building, standing apart in the Arlington Plaza, and on entering you encounter a surprisingly spacious, modern, bright, and upscale vibe. A cordial, Key Lin, who was working the front counter, was immediately welcoming and ensured our group was immediately led to our table.The interior was impressive, laid out thoughtfully with black counter comfortably separated tables, bright calming colors throughout, clusters of bright overhead hanging lamps, and soft acoustic music playing in the background. There are also dining sections set apart along the sides of the dining room that appeared to be a little more private and perfect for a more intimate get-together. The ambiance was very cool, relaxed, comfortable, and casual.
Jenny bringing out a cart with all of the food items ordered
The tables are set up with individual heaters, that can be set from low to surprisingly high, for each diner to boil their own chosen Hot Pot broth (there is a variety of broths to choose from) as they like, and in the center of the table is a grill for the group to cook the BBQ. After a very brief training session from our helpful, patient, friendly, and attentive server, Jenny, we had it down like experts. LOL. As advertised, it was a hugely enjoyable, social get-together, where everyone at the table participated in the preparation of the food that we shared which included a large array of meats, fish, and vegetables that were there for our choosing.
Pat wastes no time in preparing a delicious dish
You can order individually either the Hot Pot or the BBQ, or you can order a combination of both, which I did on my visit. The combo dinner is $32.99 per person, but in my opinion, was well worth it considering the variety and a large amount of food that you can order. Did I mention you can order an unlimited amount of food and it is also a BYOB?
I made sure to bring along some Lucky Buddha beer, while my friend found a traditional Korean wine. Make note, your table must match the option picked by everyone in your group, but you can individually choose from a variety of soup bases. As usual, I went with the hot and spicy. Since the food is brought out for the entire table to share this policy does make sense.
Assorted seafood selections
There are literally multiple pages of mouthwatering food options to choose from, some for your now boiling hot pot soup base and others for barbecuing. My group was not hesitant to choose an ample amount of premium beef, lamb, pork, pork belly, sliced chicken, shrimp, squid, calamari, fish fillet, clam, crab meat sticks, mussels, oysters, dumplings, lobster ball, and Fuzhou Fish Balls, just to start. And do not forget the Udon and assorted other noodles to thicken your personalized hot pot broth. Nope, we were not shy about ordering, and reordering and our attentive servers continued to bring it out as quickly as we ordered it. It was a truly fun and entertaining learning experience deciding on how long to cook and prepare our chosen items. You will find that this cooking interaction is a big part of what really enhances this lively dining experience. Note: the cooking time is very quick in both the hot pot and on the grill, but you will figure it out very quickly.
The cooking interaction is a big part of what really enhances this lively dining experience
I found this a great venue to visit, and certainly enjoyed the entire dining experience. I was previously unfamiliar with Hot Pot, but it only took minutes to get comfortable and feel right at home, and the servers are more than willing to help guide you along with any questions or cooking suggestions. All the assorted meats, fish, chicken, and veggies were fresh, tasty, and of high quality.
Self-serve sauce bar
There is also a self-serve sauce bar available in the rear of the restaurant complete with a large variety of sauces, marinades, and herbs that you can mix and match to enhance your meal as you like. I found the hot chili sauce, along with some scallions, an excellent dipping selection. And, for a perfect ending to this feast, do not forget to serve yourself some cool, smooth, and delicious ice cream for dessert. It is included in the price and there is a large selection of flavors to choose from, and you can have all you want. Personally, I liked the pistachio. That is if you can still eat any more at that point. One of my guests could not.
Pistachio Ice Cream
If you have not yet tried this type of cuisine, I would recommend getting together with a friend or two, a group, your family, and giving it a try. Do not be hesitant to try something new. I think you will suddenly become a fan and will want to add this cuisine to your future outings. The food is flavorful and delicious, it is reasonably priced, and it is a lot of fun preparing your dinner together. Great for a family get-together, the kids will love it. Do not know what took me so long to get here!
As always, please continue to support all our local businesses and restaurants. 火鍋 고기구이
Large Parking Lot, BYOB, Dine-In, No Delivery, Vegan Options; Reservations for Large Groups
V-Yan Hot Pot & BBQ, 796 Route 46, Parsippany; Located in Arlington Plaza; (973) 299-8666. www.vhotpot.com
PARSIPPANY — A new business opened up today in the Troy Hills Shopping Center in the same strip mall where Target and Michaels are located. It’s called Berry Bowls, “Smoothie, and Salad Bar.”
Berry Bowls is located in the Troy Hills Shopping CenterBerry Verry Pitaya Bowl: Contains Granola, Mango, Strawberry, Kiwi, and Honey
They serve Acai Bowls, Pitaya Bowls, Coconut Bowls, Fruit/Vegetable Smoothies (100% Natural Juice), Protein Shakes, Signature Salads, Paninis, and Avocado Toast on Ciabatta, and Wraps. In addition, they serve Fresh Pressed Juices, Health Shots, and Bubble Tea.
Every menu item is under $10.00.
Parsippany Economic Development Committee Vice-Chairman Frank Cahill, along with ember Justin Musella and Mayor Michael Soriano presented a plaque welcoming Berry Bowls to Parsippany
Berry Bowls is located at 1113 Roue 46, Parsippany. They also deliver by Doordash, Grubhub and Uber Eats.
To learn more click here. The temporary opening hours for the restaurant are 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily.
They also own another location at 196 Mountain Avenue, Hackettstown.
Customers were waiting for the ribbon cutting of Berry BowlsThe staff eager to serve the customersParsippany Economic Development Committee Vice-Chairman Frank Cahill, along with ember Justin Musella and Mayor Michael Soriano presented a plaque welcoming Berry Bowls to Parsippany
NORTH JERSEY — A member of the Lucchese Crime Family was sentenced to 30 months in prison for planning and carrying out an aggravated assault on the husband of one of the former stars of the Bravo television show “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced.
John Perna, 44, of Cedar Grove, previously pleaded guilty by videoconference before U.S. District Judge Kevin McNulty to Count One of an indictment charging him with committing a violent crime in aid of racketeering activity. Judge McNulty imposed the sentence by videoconference. The indictment also charges Thomas Manzo, 56, of Franklin Lakes.
According to documents filed in his case and his statements made in court:
In the spring of 2015, Manzo, one of the owners of the Brownstone Restaurant in Paterson, and the ex-husband of the Bravo star hired Perna to assault his ex-wife’s new boyfriend (now husband) in exchange for a deeply discounted wedding reception to be held at Manzo’s upscale Passaic County venue.
Perna, who is a member of the Lucchese Crime Family, planned and carried out the assault on July 18, 2015, with the help of a member of his crew. Perna was armed with a “slapjack” during the assault. In exchange for committing the assault, Perna held a lavish wedding reception at Manzo’s restaurant a month later for a fraction of the price he would otherwise have paid. The reception was attended by over 330 guests, many of whom were members of the Lucchese Crime Family.
In addition to the prison term, Judge McNulty sentenced Perna to three years of supervised release and ordered him to pay $17,816 in restitution.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr. in Newark, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Senior Litigation Counsel V. Grady O’Malley and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kendall Randolph of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Unit in Newark.
The charges and allegations in the indictment remaining against Manzo are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
PARSIPPANY — Avis Budget Group Inc. which includes its wholly-owned brands Avis Car Rental, Budget Car Rental, and Payless Car Rental, will pay $10.1 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by overcharging the United States in connection with rental vehicles, said Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig.
Avis Budget Worldwide Headquarters is located at 6 Sylvan Way.
According to the contentions of the United States contained in the settlement agreement:
Avis Budget made false claims in connection with obtaining payments under an agreement with the United States managed by the Department of Defense Travel Management Office. From January 1, 2014, through December 31, 2019, Avis Budget submitted false claims and received payment from the United States for unallowable supplemental charges to car rentals, including collision damage waiver/loss damage waiver insurance; supplemental liability coverage/additional liability insurance; personal accident insurance; personal effects coverage/personal effects protection; and late turn-in fees. In addition to being unallowable, some of the fees Avis Budget charged were already included in the government rental rate.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty; Regional Agent in Charge for the New Jersey Resident Agency, Richard Monticello; Regional Agent in Charge for the St. Louis Resident Agency, Mitch Berry, and personnel of the Department of Defense, Defense Travel Management Office, under the direction of Director William R. Mansell Jr., with the investigation leading to the settlement.
The United States is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark C. Orlowski of the U.S. Attorney’s Government Fraud Unit in Newark.
The claims settled by this agreement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, June 6, the Parsippany Lacrosse Phoenix Boys 7/8 team won the 2021 North Jersey Junior Lacrosse League (NJJLL) Tier A Championship.
The program is only 8 years old and it is the fastest any program has been able to produce an NJJLL champion. They’re only the second Parsippany team to have qualified for the playoff tournament. They are the first Parsippany team to host and win a playoff game, let-alone win 3 to win the championship.
Parsippany Lacrosse Phoenix worked so hard and we would love for them to be recognized for this amazing achievement.
PARSIPPANY — During the Parsippany Board of Education meeting, held on Tuesday, June 10, the Board took aim at the Township’s move to end the shared services that provide for School Resource Officers and a Director of Security at Parsippany’s schools.
Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Barbara Sargent read the following statement at the Board of Education meeting:
The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township School District has enjoyed a positive relationship with the local Police Department for many years. Initially developed years ago through a shared services agreement with the Township, this arrangement provides School Resource Officers at the district’s two middle schools and two high schools and a Director of Security to oversee security measures throughout the district and liaise between the district and the police department.
These officers have become a part of the fabric of our school community. They engage with students on a daily basis, they are partners with our school administrators and teachers and represent community policing at its very best. Detectives Lenahan, Ortiz, Curving, and McCarthy are exceptional officers who care deeply about our students and staff and have partnered with our school principals to keep children safe. There have been many, many incidents addressed at an unofficial school level that were resolved before escalating to more official police channels. We are grateful for the work of these officers and proud of their involvement in our schools. From a fiscal perspective, Parsippany-Troy Hills Township School District has always shared in the cost of the salaries for the School Resource Officers and the district has honored that commitment, even when closed for several months due to COVID-19. Under recent “Handle With Care” mandates, our police department partners with our schools to ensure students who experience conflict in their home settings are treated with empathy and sensitivity. The district values its relationship with the Police Department and sincerely appreciates these officers’ service to our community.
Earlier this spring, the Township communicated that they would renew this agreement for a singular year. Last week, however, the Township communicated through their attorney that they would no longer continue this long-standing partnership past June. Whatever the Township’s financial status, the issue of student safety and school community policing should not be a political football to be bounced back and forth. It is inappropriate for the Township to so abruptly vacillate on this issue right before the close of schools, particularly when the agreement calls for discussions to begin no later than April 30th. The Township previously offered to extend for one year and it should honor that commitment.
Amidst the recent pandemic, this community should not forget tragedies such as Columbine, Sandy Hook, and Parkland. With recent news focusing on students’ social and emotional needs and planning for a safe return to school for all students in September, the Township’s decision to pull these officers is frustrating, to say the least. The Parsippany-Troy Hills School District is one of the few districts in the state to have opened on time, remained consistently open, and successfully transitioned to a full-day schedule. The Township’s decision to end the shared services agreement and remove School Resource Officers from our middle and high schools – with little notice – conflicts with our past positive relationship with the Township as well as the district’s commitment to keeping children safe and supporting their return to school in September.
The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township School District is committed to doing what’s best for our students and their families. We urge the Township to reconsider this decision and approve the shared services agreement that places School Resource Officers in our middle and high schools – and connects them with our students and staff for a safe and positive school year. We look forward to meeting with the Township attorney and officials to discuss this matter face to face and reinstate the School Resource Officers for the 2021-22 school year.
Click here to read ” The Township Responds to Board of Education’s False Statement”
PARSIPPANY — A public statement from the Parsippany Board of Education falsely stated that the Township wants to remove School Resource Officers from Parsippany schools.
There is no discussion about removing School Resource Officers or any police officers from our Township’s schools, full stop. Such an inference has not been made by any Township official in any capacity, and the suggestion of such is a non-starter.
The Township and the Board of Education are currently in discussion regarding contracts for Class III and SRO officers. The administration can negotiate contracts, but contracts can only be approved by the Township Council.
When it comes to protecting our children and our community, one thing must be abundantly clear – the safety of our children and our teachers must never be exploited for posturing.
The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills supports the Parsippany School Resource Officer Program unequivocally and will continue to do so. To suggest otherwise would not only be completely false and wholly without merit, but damaging to the integrity of the program itself. We will not allow that to happen, ever.
Click here to read a statement from the Board of Education.
PARSIPPANY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) testified in front of the House Committee on Appropriations to highlight the community projects she submitted on behalf of NJ-11 during the committee’s Member Day Hearing. Today’s testimony is a crucial step in Rep. Sherrill’s efforts to ensure these projects ultimately receive funding through legislation put forward by the Appropriations Committee later this year.
In this extremely competitive process, Rep. Sherrill was only able to submit 10 project requests. Those requests must have been from state or local governments, government-adjacent organizations, and nonprofits. The 10 projects submitted by Rep. Sherrill would each make a lasting impact on the lives, livelihoods, and resilience of those in the communities they serve.
Prepared remarks included here:
Thank you, Chairwoman DeLauro, Ranking Member Granger, and members of the Committee for providing me the opportunity to testify today. I also want to extend a special nod of thanks to my good friend and colleague from New Jersey Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman for her outstanding work to represent and support our state’s priorities on this Committee.
I want to speak today about a number of crucial projects I have submitted on behalf of my district and the communities and constituents I represent.
You’ve heard from and will continue to hear from a number of members today. Many, if not all, of us, will be highlighting the community projects we’ve submitted for consideration by this committee.
For this committee, it may seem tedious. I assure you, no matter the size, scale, or issue area that these projects fall under — they will be life-changing to the constituents we’re here advocating for.
For every community, the past year has been excruciatingly difficult. The pandemic, the economic fallout, the loss, the isolation, the change in daily routine. Kids learning remotely and families prevented from seeing each other in the most troubling times many of us have ever faced.
Every part of this nation was hit hard. But for New Jersey, we were hit hardest and hit first. The impact hasn’t been lost on those in my district. Whether it’s the trauma of loss or loneliness, the financial hardship of closed businesses or a lost job that threatens housing security, or the uncertainty of what awaits on the other side of this crisis — reopening and getting back to normal is going to be a challenge.
But we’re well on our way to making that reopening a reality, and now is the time to be making the types of investments that will make us better and stronger than before.
So, each of these projects requests that I’ve submitted was chosen because they will make a significant difference in people’s lives and livelihoods. That’s what we as Members of Congress need to be doing more than anything right now — finding ways to improve the lives of our constituents and the services in our communities to help ease our recovery and pave the way for a more resilient future.
I know that goal is at the heart of every one of you as well. And whether it’s the American Rescue Plan, the infrastructure package we’re negotiating, or these community projects I’m fighting for — our priorities have been in the right place. And I want to extend my thanks to this Committee and the Members on it for the role they’ve played in helping to make that the case.
Now with that goal in mind, let me name just a few of the projects I’ve submitted for consideration.
$3 million for Morris Habitat for Humanity’s largest affordable housing project to date in Randolph
Nearly $300,000 for Suicide Prevention Services through the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris County
$250,000 for a Park Improvements Project in West Orange, specifically designed to enhance ADA accessibility and provide exercise options for seniors
Nearly $650,000 in funding for the installation of new lights at a recreation complex in Totowa
$250,000 for the replacement of a water main in Stanhope
$3.1 million for the expansion of a collaborative childcare project through United Way of Northern New Jersey
More than $135,000 for traffic improvements in Morris Plains that provide safe access to public transportation for residents of affordable housing
$255,000 for the replacement of lead pipes and service lines in Bloomfield
$800,000 for a water system upgrade to improve the water system in Hopatcong
And finally, $500,000 for the preconstruction engineering efforts for a flood mitigation project on the Peckman River
Some of the benefits of these projects speak for themselves. Improvements for clean drinking water and the replacement of lead pipes, aid for a project designed to protect communities, homes, and businesses from flooding, or traffic improvements that will increase pedestrian safety and access to public transportation for an underserved population.
These aren’t the flashiest projects Congress has ever funded, but they are often the most impactful and there are always projects like these in our communities that need to be addressed.
And then there are those, whose importance may have reached a crisis level during the challenges of the past year. Aid to Habitat for Humanity, for example. In my district, they are housing those who may have lost everything during the pandemic. I had the honor of joining as a volunteer on one of their builds just last month. Or a project to expand childcare services that will help rebuild New Jersey’s early education and care sector when 71 percent of the family childcare providers in the state have been lost. Or, perhaps sadly the most life-saving, the expansion of suicide prevention services when we’re in the midst of a mental health crisis only exacerbated by the pandemic.
These are the types of projects we need to be funding right now and I’m proud to be fighting for them here today. Thank you all so much. Thank you, Chairwoman, and I yield back.
MORRIS COUNTY — Marley is about 2 – 3 years old, weighs about 44-45 pounds and she is super sweet! She is an energetic, sweet, smart, and sassy dog who enjoys being with people, kids, other dogs and she is even ok with cats. This affectionate pup likes to cuddle and be close to her family. When you pet Marley she will put her paws around your arms! It’s so cute! Marley is a happy-go-lucky pup with lots of energy with a tail that is always wagging. She would be a wonderful companion for an active family that likes to run or hike or throw a ball. And, a fence in the yard would be great. Marley really enjoys the great outdoors!
Marley knows basic commands such as sit, come, paw, down, and no. She is good in the car and she will eat and drink on command! She is pretty good on leash with the occasional redirection needed not to pull (she get excited and is ready to go). Marley is not a barker but will let you know when someone is at the door. When Marley is finished drinking, she lets you know. She will pick up her bowl and carry it around. It’s so funny! It’s all about toys and Treats for this dog!! Give Marley a treat and she will be your best new friend, Marley is a happy, loveable, and playful dog.Sadly, Marley’s family could no longer care for her, so due to no fault of her own, Marley is in search of a family or person to love her. Is it you?
PARSIPPANY — Morris County Acting Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Investigations Christoph Kimker announce the sentencing of Miguel Botero, 30, of Dumont. The sentence stems from a triple fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred in the early morning hours of October 18, 2019.
Accident on Route 80 during the early morning hours of October 18, 2019.
On November 5, 2020, Botero entered guilty pleas to two counts of second-degree Vehicular Homicide and one count of third-degree Strict Liability Vehicular Homicide before the Hon. Stephen J. Taylor, P.J.Cr. He also entered a guilty plea to the motor vehicle offense of Driving While Intoxicated.
Botero was sentenced by Judge Taylor today to an aggregate term of 17 years New Jersey State Prison, 12 years of which are subject to the parole ineligibility provisions of the No Early Release Act. Specifically, Botero was sentenced to six years New Jersey State Prison, subject to the No Early Release Act, on each of the second degree Vehicular Homicide charges, and five years New Jersey State Prison on the third degree Strict Liability Vehicular Homicide charge. All charges are to run consecutively.
The charges arise from a multi-vehicle motor vehicle crash that occurred in the area of milepost 45.2 on Route 80 Eastbound in Parsippany-Troy Hills. The investigation revealed that all three occupants of one of the vehicles struck by Botero died as a result of the crash. Further investigation revealed that Botero was intoxicated at the time of the crash and was driving his vehicle in the wrong direction on Route 80.
Acting Prosecutor Carroll acknowledges members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit and the members of the New Jersey State Police Fatal Accident Investigation Unit, in particular, MCPO Detective Jason Gould, and NJSP Detective Richard Hampp, who contributed to the successful investigation of this matter, and Assistant Prosecutor Tara Wang represented the State in this prosecution.
PARSIPPANY — Little Vikings Football registration is open for all Parsippany players this season! They are proud to announce this is the 25th Anniversary!
Little Vikings has been providing the opportunity to learn and play the great American game of football since 1996! The program proudly serves families with students in grades K-8 and is organized and run by dedicated volunteers, parents, and experienced coaches.
Players can join Little Vikings at any grade level. NO prior football experience is required. Players are divided into teams by age and weight. Our K-2nd grade teams play in the flag division. This form of instructional football teaches organized play without contact or the need for equipment. Players in 3rd-8th graders play tackle football. LVF provides players with a helmet, shoulder pads, practice pants, “girdle” pads, thigh pads, and knee pads.
This year practice for the fall season begins August 3 and game schedules will begin in early September. LVF offers family discounts for multiple kids and an early bird discount if you are registered before June 15.
PARSIPPANY — The year was 1920-21 and the 100-year Spanish flu Global Pandemic was raging…well, globally. As we all know how the lockdowns affect couples, some worried that humanity will be wiped off and some just wanna have fun.
Pascal and Florina D’Costa were no different; they procreated for humanity and Urbano Thomas D’Costa was born in Tolecanto, Goa, India on May 25, 1921. They did not have blue masks then, they wore green banana leaves. Urban was born into a cautious and thrifty world, which would greatly affect his life. As a child, after “Mama” and “Papa” his third word was “Sensex” (Bombay Stock Exchange).
Wedding Picture
His father was a seafarer and his mother practically brought him up as a single-parent. God smiled on Urban and asked His servant, Padre Tellis, to nurture him. Father Tellis took it on himself to educate Urban through his schooling days, through his college days, and then, in 1947, got him a scholarship to Fordham University, NY to complete his Masters in Bio-Chemistry…he also received his US Green card during this period. He was in NY when the infamous headline “Dewey defeats Truman” in 1948, hit the Chicago Daily Tribune. Urban has a picture of Governor Thomas Dewey handing him an award! Upon completing his Masters, he returned back to Bombay and was immediately snapped up by the most beautiful woman, Antoinette! Urban did not know what hit him. He started working in Glaxo, Bombay, and thus began his long and fruitful life.
Family Picture
The past Pandemic was still at the back of his mind, and for the sake of humanity, Urban fathered four children.
Anita married Sachin and had Pria; Sandra married Colin and had Andrew and Nicole; Glen married Natasha and had Dion, Tyra, and Darren; and finally, Lester married Vinette and had Alyssa and Dylan. As you can see the Global population was now safe for any Pandemic that we may have in the future!
The year is 2020…Another 100-year pandemic has hit the globe…May 25, 2021, and Urban has made it to 100, beating both the pandemics! His biggest regret in life is that he took the lump sum retirement plan from Glaxo and not the continuing pension plan…Glaxo would have to file for bankruptcy if he did!!! His worst day was November 18, 2018, when his soul mate Antoinette went ahead before him to prepare their mansion in heaven. His advice to all of us is that we should be kind to one another and use the Walker every day…the Johnny kind (Feni would be preferable, where available).
On May 25, 2021, the family went to Lake George, NY to celebrate his 100th birthday. The family gathered there except for Darren (Singapore) and Tyra (London)…lockdown reasons. They had a great time with family and fellowship, and of course seriously taking his advice with the Walkers.
The good Lord has blessed Urban immensely and has kept His promise in Ruth 4:14: “Blessed be the Lord, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel. And he shall be unto thee a Restorer of thy life and a Nourisher of thine old age.” And in Isaiah 46:4 “And I will still be carrying you when you are old. Your hair will turn grey, and I will still carry you. I made you, and I will carry you to safety.”
Thank you all for keeping Urban and our family in your prayers. We need your prayers and blessings on Urban as he prepares for this difficult transition to rejoin his bride Antoinette. God bless Urban and God bless you all. Let’s start counting down to 200.
Happy 100 year birthday Urban! May you live to be…a hundred and three !!!
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Republican Party nominated three candidates dedicated to bringing Parsippany backwards. Former Mayor Barberio, Frank Neglia, and Justin Musella are committed to returning our town to the irresponsible Inglesino-style politics of the past.
As Mayor of Parsippany, the most populous town in Morris County, Mayor Soriano has set the tone for good governance across the county. Along with Council running mates Cori Herbig and Judy Hernandez, this Democratic ticket brings the collective experience and expertise Parsippany residents are looking for. Soriano, Herbig, and Hernandez are leading a campaign that voters will be proud to support in November.
From stewarding our community through the COVID-19 pandemic to protecting Parsippany’s open space, Mayor Soriano, Herbig, and Hernandez are committed to keeping Parsippany moving forward for the next four years and planning for the next forty.
“Under the Barberio-Inglesino administration, fiscal mismanagement, overdevelopment, and gross incompetence were the hallmarks of the Parsippany government,” said campaign manager Elise McGovern. “Along with Frank Neglia and nine-month resident Justin Musella, electing the Barberio ticket would set Parsippany back years on the critical issues facing our community. Mayor Soriano, Cori Herbig, and Judy Hernandez look forward to engaging with all Parsippany residents on the important issues we collectively face and ensuring Parsippany is a welcoming community that works for everyone.”
PARSIPPANY — Mayor Michael Soriano and James Barberio appear set for a rematch of the 2021 mayoral election to be held on Tuesday, November 2.
The Republican council race is very close with newcomer Justin Musella and Board of Education President Frank Neglia in the lead. They will face off in the General Election against Democrats Cori Herbig and Judy Hernandez.
Mayoral Candidate
Votes
James Barberio
2,275
Louis Valori
2,013
Write-In
10
Total
4,298
Township Council Candidate
Votes
Justin Musella
1,763
Frank Neglia
1,758
Gary Martin
1,629
Deborah Orme
1,485
Robert Peluso
1,269
Write-In
10
Total
7,914
These numbers are unofficial and are subject to additional mail-in ballots. Final mail-in ballots were to be postmarked by Today, June 8 to be considered.
PARSIPPANY — Today, Mayor Soriano (Mayor of Parsippany-Troy Hills) cast his ballot in the Democratic Primary Election at Rockaway Meadow School in Parsippany-Troy Hills.
“I just voted today, and I want to thank the poll workers for providing us with a safe, secure, and efficient voting experience. As an American, it’s our duty to vote in every election we can. People have given their lives for our right to vote. We must honor them by exercising our right to vote,” said Mayor Michael Soriano, Mayor of Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ “No other election can have more effect on your daily lives than local elections. So, make a plan today and get out and vote.”
Mayor Soriano is running for his second term as Mayor of Parsippany-Troy Hills. He is running with Cori Herbig and Judy Hernandez, candidates for Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Council. Herbig will be voting later today with her two children at Lake Hiawatha Library and Hernandez was one of many New Jersey voters to vote by mail in this election.
“Mayor Soriano, Cori Herbig, and Judy Hernandez are leaders in this community and will continue to work for the residents of Parsippany-Troy Hills. They each bring invaluable experience and expertise to their roles” said campaign manager for Team Soriano 2021, Elise McGovern.
MORRIS COUNTY — Today is primary election day, and this year features a contest between Republican gubernatorial candidates: Jack Ciattarelli, Brian Levine, Hirsh Singh, and Phil Rizzo. Whoever wins, of course, will face Governor Phil Murphy in the General Election.
Incumbents, Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce and Assemblyman Jay Webber will compete with Tom Mastrangelo and Christian Barranco for two available Assembly seats.
In Parsippany, there is a Republican race for Mayor and Council. Former Mayor James Barberio and his running mates Board of Education President Frank Neglia, and Board Member Deborah Orme will face off former Council Vice President Dr. Louis Valori and his running mates Justin Musella and Gary Martin. In addition, former Council Vice President Robert Peluso is running for a council seat. The successful winners will face off Mayor Michael Soriano and his running mates, Judy Hernandez and Cori Herbig in the November general election.
If you didn’t read Parsippany Focus’s “Meet the Candidates” click here.
Here’s how you can vote:
In-person at the polls, between 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
In-person, by dropping off your ballot in a county dropbox before 8:00 p.m.
By mail, as long as it’s postmarked today
Click here to find out where you can vote in person.
The Township of Parsippany Troy-Hills has 39 elections districts located within 18 polling locations. Please see the list below for all the polling locations throughout the Township. Sample Ballots were mailed out on June 2, 2021, and your polling location will be on the sample ballot along with your district number.
Click here to find your district number. Use this guide for polling locations. (Do not use the guide on the state website as locations changed for this election)
District
Location
1, 4, 11, 13, 39
Brooklawn Middle School
Girls Aux Gym Room
250 Beachwood Road
Parsippany, NJ 07054
PARSIPPANY — Support our Police and Law Enforcement rally was held on Sunday, June in the Parking lot of 51 Gibraltar Drive.
Edward Mosberg addressing the crowd
The event was being led by Mr. Edward Mosberg, a Holocaust survivor and longtime Parsippany resident.
Also attending to show support were former Mayor Jamie Barberio, former Council President Lou Valori (both of whom are seeking the Mayor’s office this election season), Assemblyman Brian Bergen, Christian Barranco a candidate for State Assembly, and the Council candidates Justin Musella, Gary Martin, Frank Neglia, and Deborah Orme.
Mr. Mosberg addressed the crowd with the following speech:
My name is Edward Mosberg, I am a Holocaust Survivor and a proud American Jew.
I am a witness to the hatred that the Nazis had against all the people that were not like them, whether they were black, white, brown, Gypsies or others. The Nazis murdered millions upon millions of people that were not like them and we in the United States should ensure that this never happens again against any race because all people are created equal by God and they have to be protected by our Police officers.
We are gathered here today to show gratitude and appreciation to our Law Enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day to protect all of us.
We must RE-fund the Police by showing them our appreciation and make sure to support them in any way we can.
Police officers come from all races colors and backgrounds and they are the backbone of a functioning society, if not for their selfless dedication there would be total anarchy in our streets.
The past couple of years have been particularly difficult as you faced unrest, a pandemic, and a lack of proper funding.
As it was recently POLICE WEEK, we bow our heads in remembrance of those officers that were tragically killed in the line of duty. We should never forget them and may their memories be eternally blessed.
I am honored to have spoken at a number of Police academies and will continue to do so for as long as I can, I am 95 years young.
In conclusion, may God bless you and your families for their sacrifice, and once more may God bless the officers killed in the line of duty, and may God bless the United States of America!
PARSIPPANY — Councilmembers Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson made the following statement thanking the Murphy Administration for their assistance in providing special emergency funds to the Township.
“At the Finance Committee meeting on May 25, Parsippany Chief Financial Officer Juan Uribe announced that the $5 million loan that the Administration requested in early April was no longer necessary after receipt of the $2.7 million in American Rescue Funds.
Business Administrator Carr asked the Town Council on Tuesday to vacate the $5 million emergency borrowing resolution. While reducing the loan amount is good news, Parsippany still faces an estimated $2.8 million budget deficit in 2021. What actions the Administration will take to address this deficit are still pending.
Even though the State has supported Parsippany by approving special emergency borrowing, the Administration continues to take issue with the NJ State Division of Government Services for not properly understanding their own guidelines on emergency borrowing requirements and for providing what they say is inaccurate guidance.
For the record, any statement in recent reporting claiming the township’s $9 million deficit is related to the pandemic is inaccurate. The $9 million deficit is a result of years of reliance on transfers from the utility surplus. This will require diligent fiscal management for the foreseeable future to resolve. The task at hand now is to address the 2021 deficit and pass a budget that works for all residents. The Council is eager to review the proposed budget once submitted on June 15 during our next meeting.”
