PARSIPPANY — Jordan Simpson, a 2018 graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, has been named to the Caldwell University Dean’s List for the Fall 2020 Term. Her major is Psychology.
Full-time students who achieve a grade point average of 3.5 or higher at the end of the term are placed on the Dean’s List at the University. Caldwell University was founded as a Catholic liberal arts college by the Sisters of Saint Dominic.
The University offers thirteen graduate degree programs, along with a number of post-baccalaureate and post-masters’ programs. Caldwell University fields 15 NCAA Division II teams.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine – March 2021. Click here to view the complete magazine.
PARSIPPANY — AustinWhiteman a student at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Florham Campus in Madison, has been named to the Honors List for the Spring 2020 semester.
To qualify for the Honors List, a student must carry a 3.5 or better grade point average out of a possible 4.0 and be enrolled in a minimum of 12 letter-graded hours (four courses).
FDU’s Florham Campus is located on the former Vanderbilt-Twombly estate in suburban Morris County. Its focus is on providing outstanding on-campus and residential living opportunities, hands-on-learning experiences, strong graduate and professional school preparation, and customized educational options, all framed by a global perspective.
EAST HANOVER — Over the past few months, I have had the opportunity to visit and highlight several exceptional local Italian restaurants, along with their Chefs. As you travel just over the Parsippany border into neighboring East Hanover, we are fortunate to have yet another outstanding example of that food genre, and another stand-out Chef, to add to our list, Pucciarello’s Italian Kitchen.
Pucciarello’s is warm, cozy, and stylish
In 2017 Chef Anthony Pucciarello, together with the talented and personable Donna Fallon, decided to bring their combined extensive, culinary experience and talents to Pucciarello’s Italian Kitchen, located near the intersection of Route 10 West on Ridgedale Avenue in East Hanover. For 19 years prior to that, you may remember the location, as the former site of Breanna’s Italian Restaurant. I have dined at Pucciarello’s several times in the past, so I am basing this review, not only with this visit but with all those past experiences in mind.
The relaxing atmosphere is welcoming and elegant
Every great Chef I have ever met, who proved to be a passionate, creative, artist, also came along with a great backstory. It is no different from the impressive, likable, genuine, and energetic Chef Anthony Pucciarello. The Chef’s story starts in his Italian grandparent’s house on a dead-end street, in an Italian American enclave in Belleville, whereas a child, he would be surrounded with a sense of his Italian culture, family values, homemade pasta, wine, and plenty of delicious, traditional Italian food. At the early age of 9, with the support and encouragement of his family, he learned enough to be able to create some of his own meals. At age 10 he got a job at a local pizzeria where he was hired to fold pizza boxes for $10 a week. Then, at 17, he was hired, by circumstance, as a cook at a local neighborhood restaurant. It is not hard to see what this was leading to; cooking was obviously in young Anthony’s blood!
Pat Minutillo with owners Donna Fallon and Chef Anthony Pucciarello
More formal training followed, with a degree at the prestigious C.I.A. (Culinary Institute of America) and FDU, where he achieved a BS in Hotel/Restaurant Management. A stint as a Sous Chef at the Tropicana in Las Vegas followed, before returning home. After taking a couple of jobs at several highly rated Manhattan restaurants his extensive culinary and management knowledge and skills became evident, and his recognition as a top Chef continued to grow, especially during his tenure as Executive Chef at Papillion in Nutley, then Luce in Caldwell, and in 2012, his first restaurant, Cielo in Fairfield.
Of course, Chef Pucciarello continued to learn and hone his craft during these great experiences, all of which have led to Chef Pucciarello and Donna Fallon opening the doors to their new restaurant in 2017. Both owners take great pride in the fact that their restaurant is built on integrity, comfort, family values, customer service, and most of all on ‘respect for the ingredient’, and of course, the customer, many of whom are considered family. It would be remiss if I did not note that Pucciarello’s strives to serve only the finest fresh Italian food, utilizing the freshest seasonal and local ingredients available.
Veal Parm Twist
The ambiance of the inviting interior of Pucciarello’s is warm, cozy, and stylish. Providing a relaxing atmosphere that is welcoming and elegant, while still casual enough to be extremely comfortable. The décor throughout is bright, beautiful, and classy, with nicely separated tables, all expertly appointed and dressed in white linen tablecloths, sparkling glassware, and thoughtfully placed silverware. And, as must be noted, the restaurant appeared amazingly clean, with all current COVID health requirements being strictly adhered to. Immediately following our seating, our water glasses were filled, our BYOB wine was uncorked, and fresh, hot, crusty, bread, along with a complimentary Eggplant Caponata appeared; a delicious, sweet, and sour, mouthwatering, roasted eggplant spread, with garlic, onion, tomato and more, mixed in olive oil, that could serve as quite a meal on its own. The service was impeccable, prompt, friendly, attentive, and professional. The extensive, two-page, carefully prepared menu, which reflects both Northern and Southern authentic Italian dishes, listed one delectable choice after another, along with the Chef’s nightly specialties. Many creative, innovative, amazing dishes, as well as many of those wonderful, unpretentious, feel-good comfort foods that bring back fond, nostalgic memories.
Petite Filet Mignon Meatballs
Our appetizers included the Petite Filet Mignon Meatballs; juicy, tasty, perfectly prepared, and seasoned petite meatballs, served with Italian long hot peppers, house-made crispy potatoes chips, olive oil & garlic broth; Homemade Sweet Sausage; pan sauteed sausage, served with Italian long hot peppers, broccoli rabe, house-made potato chips, garlic, and olive oil; and Shrimp Beeps, a Jersey classic, which consisted of pan-seared shrimp served in a medium spicy marinara sauce. Ample-sized portions so we were all able to share and enjoy each of the selections.
Veal Medallions
For an entrée I decided on the Veal Medallions; tender, delectable, delicate, cuts of velvety-textured veal, pan-roasted, and topped with prosciutto di parma, placed on top of a bed of spinach, and topped with fresh, melted mozzarella & shallots, in a sherry wine sauce. The veal, which I could easily cut with my fork, was as moist, savory, and delicious as it looked. My friends decided on the Daily Specials. Garlic Shrimp: served with the Chef’s signature garlic sauce, served over a spring pea risotto; and the Veal Parm Twist; which consisted of breaded veal cutlets, topped with sausage, ricotta, mozzarella & marinara sauce. By all accounts, everyone thoroughly enjoyed their meals and found their individual dishes to be flavorful and satisfying.
Chocolate Peanut Swirl Brownie, topped with vanilla ice cream
Finished with a Cappuccino and a sweet, decadent, Banana Foster Cake, consisting of double layers of Banana Walnut Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. The combination of flavors was delicious, and how could you go wrong with a dessert made up of bananas, rum, and caramel. I have had traditional Banana Foster many times, but never as a cake.
I would not turn it down if offered again. Other desserts included the Tartufo, which came with chocolate, vanilla, and pumpkin hazelnut filling; and a Chocolate Peanut Swirl Brownie, topped with vanilla ice cream.
Warm Pound Cake with Strawberries
Thank you to Chef Anthony Pucciarello, Donna Fallon, and the staff at Pucciarello’s Italian Kitchen for a pleasant, satisfying, and delicious dining experience, and for taking the time to make us feel like part of the family. I would certainly recommend putting this one on your list of outstanding local area Italian restaurants.
And as always, please try to come out and help support all our local, small independent businesses in any way you can.
BYOB, Off-Road Parking Lot, Dine In, Take Out. Closed Monday.
Pucciarello’s Italian Kitchen is located at 34 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover. Phone: (973) 530-4100. Click here to view the website.
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will conduct its regularly scheduled council meeting Tuesday, March 2, 2021 at 7:00 p.m..
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the meeting will be held via a web conferencing program named WebEx. This program will allow the public to listen in to the meeting and to participate during the public portion session only. This program uses a “raise hand” button in the software to address those who wish to speak during the public portion.
Please be advised that in order for a member of the public to speak during the public portion, they will need to provide their first name, last name, email address, address and city accurately. Anyone not using their real name and address will not be allowed to speak during the public portion.
PARSIPPANY — Meet Piper! She is an 8-year old Pit Bull mix ready to show you how much love she has to offer!
She is the sweetest girl who just wants to be in your company! She loves to lay next to you on the couch and soak up your attention! She greets everyone she meets with a wagging tail and smile on her wrinkly face!
During the day, Piper is very content lounging in her bed or going on walks to check out the neighborhood. She walks perfectly on the leash!
She is very smart and treats motivated! She has mastered commands “sit”, “wait”, and “paw”. She is fully house trained and non-destructive when left alone. She is a quiet girl and rarely makes a peep!
Don’t be fooled by her age! Piper loves to play tug of war and spend time outside. Since she is approaching her golden years, she would do best with kids above the age of 12. She does well with other dogs but has never been around cats.
If you are looking for a calm love bug, apply to adopt Piper today!
If you are interested in adopting, please fill out an application by clicking here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy delivered his fourth annual budget address on Tuesday, outlining a responsible spending proposal for the Fiscal Year 2022 (FY2022) that includes critical investments to help New Jersey emerge from the pandemic stronger, fairer, and more resilient while making a full pension payment for the first time in more than a quarter of a century, providing the highest level of school funding in history, delivering direct tax rebates to over 760,000 middle-class families, and providing $200 million in relief for small businesses.
“This budget lives up to our stronger and fairer mission,” said Governor Murphy. “Stronger to come out of the pandemic with an economy that works for every New Jersey family. Fairer to help families and small businesses hit hard and left behind in the pandemic’s brutal wake. This budget will continue to stabilize property taxes for hardworking families. This budget will continue the hard work of moving forward – not only from the pandemic – but from years of neglect. Our problems weren’t created overnight and, frankly, they won’t be fixed overnight. But I know that brighter days lay ahead.”
The proposed FY2022 budget makes good on the Governor’s promise to public employees by including an additional $1.6 billion to meet the goal of contributing 100 percent of the Actuarially Determined Contribution (ADC) to New Jersey’s pension system a year earlier than initially planned. The proposed $6.4 billion pension payment, which includes contributions from the State lottery, would mark the first time the State has made a full contribution since FY1996.
The State has been on a 1/10 ramp-up plan as it works its way up to meeting the full pension contribution and was initially slated to contribute 90 percent of the full contribution this year. The Governor’s decision to make a 100 percent contribution a year early will substantially reduce the State’s obligation in the coming years, saving taxpayers $861 million over the next 30 years. The combined pension contributions by the Murphy Administration in four years will roughly total an unprecedented $18 billion, which is $9.4 billion more than the prior Governor contributed over two terms.
The $44.83 billion spending proposal assumes 2.4 percent growth in total revenue and includes a sizable surplus of $2.193 billion, just under five percent of budgeted appropriations and dwarfing the average of the previous administration. Revenue projections have improved in part due to record high stock markets, the federal stimulus that directly aided individuals and businesses, as well as what economists describe as a K-shaped recession, which has seen middle and high-income households recover more quickly while low-income households have continued to struggle.
The budget proposal aims to address these inequities by directing resources where they are needed most in order to build a stronger post-pandemic New Jersey. The Governor is committed to investing significant resources to ensure the State does not repeat the same mistakes made during the Great Recession when New Jersey was one of the last states to recover from the financial crisis after drastically cutting state aid.
As a result of last year’s millionaires’ tax enactment, the proposed FY2022 budget includes $319 million in direct tax relief for middle-class families, which will provide up to a $500 rebate to over 760,000 couples and individuals with qualified dependents. The budget also includes $1.25 billion in funding to support various property tax relief programs. Additionally, it includes funding to:
Expand the Veterans’ Property Tax Deduction to those who served in peacetime;
Make the Child and Dependent Care Credit refundable and expand eligibility to families making up to $150,000, more than doubling eligibility to aid 148,000 taxpayers; and
Expand eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit to roughly 70,000 senior citizens without dependents.
The proposed budget also includes a new multi-departmental economic growth initiative that will boost economic recovery in New Jersey communities, provide access to capital for minority-owned businesses, and help the government support sustainable economic growth. This roughly $200 million investment initiative includes:
$100 million allocated from the recently passed Economic Recovery Act Main Street Recovery Finance program ($50 million is available in FY2021 and an additional $50 million is proposed for FY2022);
$25 million for EDA’s lending programs such as Premier Lender and Microbusinesses;
$20 million for the NJRA’s Urban Site Acquisition Fund and Redevelopment Investment Fund, the first State investment in the NJRA since 2002;
$15 million for Permit Modernization across State departments and for local governments;
$13.5 million for the Department of Transportation’s Local Aid and Economic Development Grants, including the Transit Village, Safe Streets to Transit, and Bikeways programs;
$10 million for EDA’s Black and Latinx Seed Fund initiative;
$6.5 million for DCA’s Neighborhood Preservation Program and Main Street New Jersey, allowing each to expand to significantly more communities;
$5 million for the Department of State’s Business Marketing Initiative;
$3.2 million for the Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology;
$1 million for EDA’s NJ Ignite; and
$500,000 to double funding for EDA’s Small Businesses Bonding Readiness Assistance program
The proposed FY2022 budget furthers the Governor’s historic commitment to education by increasing formula aid by $578 million. Over the last four years, direct pre-K through grade 12 spending statewide has increased by nearly $1.5 billion, putting New Jersey on the path to fully funding the constitutional school funding formula. The Governor’s proposed budget will:
Expand the state investment in pre-K by $50 million, including $26 million for new programs.
Increase Extraordinary Special Education Aid by $25 million; and
Provide $50 million in Stabilization Aid,
Additionally, the proposed budget boldly strives to make higher education more attainable for more New Jersey students and further assist colleges by:
Allocating $50 million to fund The Garden State Guarantee, which provides two years of free tuition at four-year institutions for students with household incomes of less than $65,000;
Investing $27 million in the Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) program, which provides tuition-free community college for eligible students;
Increasing funding for the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) by $2.8 million for a total of $51.8 million, which will cover the identifiable undergraduate student capacity needs for the academic year for the first time; and
Increasing aid to community colleges by $5 million, aligned with an outcomes-based framework.
The budget proposal also includes significant quality of life investments to make New Jersey a healthier and more affordable place to live, including:
Investing an additional $25 million in NJ Health Plan Savings subsidies;
Launching the “Cover All Kids” initiative with the ultimate goal of ensuring affordable, accessible health coverage is available to nearly 88,000 children without coverage;
Raising the income threshold by $10,000 for the Pharmaceutical Assistance for the Aged and Disabled and Senior Gold programs, which will benefit over 20,000 seniors;
$19 million to support the new Reproductive Health Care Fund, which will cover costs for contraceptive, prenatal, labor, and delivery care for those without access to medical assistance;
$19.5 million for Family Planning Services, bringing the total the Governor will have provided over four years to nearly $74 million, after years of defunding by the prior administration;
$8.5 million to expand Medicaid coverage for 365 days postpartum and $2 million to create a new pilot program to support rental assistance for expecting mothers, both of which will advance the First Lady’s Nurture NJ initiative; and
$20 million for the Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency’s Down Payment Assistance program, providing nearly 2,000 mortgages for first-time homebuyers.
The Governor is also proposing significant direct appropriation investments, including $200 million for the Offshore Wind Port and $200 million for current Schools Development Authority (SDA) projects to reduce debt issuance; $75 million for the SDA’s Capital Maintenance and Emergent Needs Grant program; $60 million to support the continuation of the Drinking Water and Clean Water Infrastructure Fund; and $86.6 million for critical capital improvements, including emergent life safety and IT projects.
The FY2022 budget proposal also increases total resources for NJ TRANSIT to $2.65 billion, nine percent over FY2021 and 15 percent over FY2019. It also continues to reduce diversions from the agency’s capital fund for operating costs, marking the lowest transfer in 15 years, and for the fourth consecutive year, there will be no fare hike.
The proposed budget also continues to build on the progress the Murphy Administration has made to address the inequities in New Jersey’s criminal justice system by including funding to help lessen the burden on individuals seeking expungement of criminal records; equip local police officers with body-worn cameras; develop software to make law enforcement forfeiture actions more transparent; allow incarcerated individuals placed in isolated confinement to undergo daily examinations by health professionals, and support implementation of the “Earn Your Way Out” law.
Additionally, the proposed budget includes both new and increased investments for the Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC) and the Department of Corrections (DOC):
$5 million to improve internet infrastructure for DOC’s incarcerated population to access education, employment, and legal materials;
$4.2 million more for county Youth Services Commissions to reduce juvenile delinquency;
$3 million to help fund non-profits that facilitate re-entry;
$2.25 million for the Scholarship and Transformative Education in Prison Program; and
at least $2 million in support for a new career training program at JJC and an apprenticeship program and other career services for DOC inmates.
PARSIPPANY — Mayor Michael Soriano signed the Sustainable Jersey Gold Pledge in Energy joining 12 other mayors in the state to sign onto the pledge. Sponsored by Sustainable Jersey and the National League of Cities, the Gold Pledge hopes to solve the crisis of global warming through new green initiatives and modifying current practices. As part of the pledge, Sustainable Jersey will partner with the township to provide clear guidance and meaningful resources to help achieve sustainability goals.
“Our citizen Green Team, along with our administration has done tremendous work to bring the issues of sustainability and environmental protection to the forefront in Parsippany,” said Mayor Michael Soriano. “In pledging to continue our Township’s movement towards sustainable practices, Parsippany’s demonstrating its stature as a regional leader on these important issues.”
“Mayor Soriano signing the Gold Pledge emphasizes his forward-looking vision to protect the citizens of Parsippany and the environment for Parsippany and the surrounding areas,” said Matt Kavanagh, Co-Chair of the Parsippany Green Team. “His support and the support of the town council is enabling program success of the Parsippany Green Team’s objectives to recertify with Sustainable Jersey which is targeting Bronze in 2021.”
The Gold Star Standard in Energy is a challenging mix of concrete actions and performance standards. Municipalities that achieve the standards align with a clear trajectory to solving the climate crisis on a local level.
Among these initiatives, the Gold Pledge seeks to:
– Reduce municipal carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions.
– Increase renewable energy capabilities.
– Improve energy affordability.
– Decrease environmental waste output.
– Improve infrastructure repair and development.
– Improve the health of residents and the community as a whole by eliminating environmentally harmful activities and improving air quality.
New Jersey’s Global Warming Response Act calls for an 80% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from 2006 levels by the year 2050. To meet this target, New Jersey will have to reduce GHG emissions at a rate of 3.6% per year, every year. Aligning with Sustainable Jersey’s Gold Pledge in Energy will put Parsippany on the path toward meeting these expectations.
Division heads from departments throughout Parsippany spoke about the importance and impact the Gold standards will have on daily life in Parsippany, as well as how each will work to achieve these goals: Department of Public Works, Engineering, and Water & Sewer, to name a few.
In addition, The Parsippany Green Team discussed how they’ll assist in addressing the needs of residents, and act as a conduit for local input and civic engagement on the many benchmarks needed to achieve these goals in the township.
“The Gold Star in Energy is the highest credential in the Sustainable Jersey program and Parsippany is working hard to achieve this milestone by 2023 and to achieve net-zero carbon by 2030,” said Kavanagh. “Sustainable Jersey objectives benefit the residents and businesses of the town but also indirectly ensure a more sustainable environment for the surrounding areas and NJ at large.”
For more information on Sustainable Jersey and the Gold Pledge in Energy click here. To contact the Parsippany Green Team click here.
PARSIPPANY — A letter to all Parsippany Families from Dr. Barbara Sargent, Superintendent of Schools:
We have been monitoring daily attendance and the number of students in each school cohort for the past several weeks, and we are in a position to safely combine both cohorts for daily attendance every week. All criteria in the district’s Return to School Plan will still be in effect, including social distancing among staff and students, mask-wearing, Daily Health Screening forms, and safe hygiene practices.
At last evening’s Board of Education meeting, I announced a staggered start to this new attendance schedule.
• High school students currently attending Cohort A or Cohort B will begin weekly attendance, effective Monday, March 1. Virtual Friday will continue for all high school students.
• Middle school students currently attending as Cohort A or Cohort B will begin weekly (Monday through Friday) attendance, effective Tuesday, March 16.
• Only Northvail, Knollwood, and Troy Hills Schools will begin a combined cohort attendance on Monday, March 22. The remaining elementary school students currently attending as Cohort A or Cohort B will begin weekly (Monday through Friday) attendance, effective Monday, April 12. The low number of children attending in-person at Northvail, Knollwood, and Troy Hills Schools each week allows for an earlier transition date.
• Students who were already attending daily and weekly (Special Education, most English Language Learners, seniors at-risk for graduation, etc.) will continue their attendance pattern with no change.
• Parents of Fully Remote students will have specific deadlines for requesting in-person learning so as to allow for a controlled re-entry.
• Finally, the current instructional schedule will remain in effect for the time being.
High school families have already been notified of these adjustments. I spoke with several high school students earlier this week and they were very excited to have more students in the building and to be able to see their teachers in person daily. Middle and elementary school principals will provide additional information to parents next week. We are excited to welcome more students into school as this signals one more step toward a more normal school experience.
Families who wish for their children to remain Fully Remote may continue with this status through June. AM SKIP will reconvene on Monday, April 12th. To register for the AM program or any other questions, please phone the SKIP office at (862) 702-2023.
PARSIPPANY — The COVID-19 Vaccination Information hotline that the Department of Health has created to assist residents who want to be vaccinated, but who may not have access to the internet or a computer. The hotline can be reached at 855-568-0545. Vaccines and appointments are still in short supply, as demand for the vaccine continues to far exceed the current supply.
Register for your vaccination at the links below *while appointments/supplies last*
Morris County Mega Site Rockaway Townsquare Mall click here.
Shoprite Check availability click here.
CVS Check availability click here.
Walgreens Check availability click here.
New Jersey Vaccination Scheduling System Register click here.
PARSIPPANY — Assemblyman Jay Webber and Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce filed joint nominating petitions electronically with the State Division of Elections.
The early filing clearly shows the strong support that both Assemblyman Webber and Assemblywoman DeCroce enjoy throughout the district. The campaign will make supplemental filings as necessary.
Assemblyman Jay Webber
“I am grateful for the great confidence and support that so many friends and constituents have offered already. This campaign will prove strong and relentless into November, and I look forward to continuing my service in the General Assembly to put taxpayers first, protect our most vulnerable, and champion those who are too often forgotten: our constituents who play by the rules and ask only a fair shake from their government,” said Assemblyman Jay Webber.
Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce added, “I am humbled and energized by the early and overwhelming support I have received since announcing this campaign. As your Assemblywoman, I work hard every day to fight for you – our working families, seniors, and small business owners. I look forward to continuing my service in the General Assembly.”
MORRIS PLAINS — Weichert, Realtors, along with Be the Match and the Icla da Silva Foundation, will hold a drive-through bone marrow donor registry event at their company headquarters in Morris Plains, on Saturday, February 27, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The public is encouraged to participate. This drive is being held in honor of Jackie and Addison Erb, the twin granddaughters of Weichert’s Arlene Gonnella, who were recently diagnosed with JMML. A bone marrow or stem cell transplant is the only known cure for this rare form of leukemia.
“Weichert is a family company and what affects one of us affects all of us. Times like these are when families rally together to support each other,” said Denise Smith, president of Real Estate Services for Weichert. “That’s why we are calling on all our friends, colleagues, and customers in the area to come out Saturday and get tested to see if you are a match.”
Weichert and The Gonnella-Erb family have partnered with Be the Match and the Icla da Silva Foundation to conduct the registry event. Participants will not exit their vehicles at the screening, during which they will self-administer a cheek swab and fill out a digital application. COVID safety protocols will be observed. All residents aged 18-44, and generally in good health, are invited to help find potential matches for all patients in need of bone marrow donors. #JackieAddi
For those who want to participate but cannot attend, test kits are available for home delivery upon request from Be the Match. There are two ways to access a kit: 1) Click here and register. 2) Text JackieAddi (all one word) to 61474.
In-person screening is preferable. If you are unable to join the registry, but you still want to support the family, a Go Fund Me page has been set up for donations by clicking here.
MORRIS COUNTY — In an effort to address the massive backlog at New Jersey’s Motor Vehicle Commission agencies and hours-long wait times, the Assembly Appropriations Committee advanced legislation sponsored by Assemblywoman Aura Dunn to make the written portion of the driver’s license exam available online during the Covid-19 public health emergency.
The MVC reopened in July after a four-month shutdown and struggled to accommodate an overwhelming number of drivers who waited in long lines that snaked around buildings. Even as the second wave of the pandemic subsides, MVC agencies have been plagued by coronavirus-related shutdowns.
“My measure provides a practical solution to a big problem at the MVC,” said Dunn (R-Morris). “Some drivers have had to wait for weeks to get appointments during the pandemic. It makes no sense to force people into long lines or wait times when we live in a digital age and a vast majority of us are learning and working from home.”
Under Dunn’s bill (A4632), people taking driver’s license exams online would need to certify that they did not use any reference materials or receive assistance from another individual. Drivers under 18 would be required to have a parent or guardian present.
“We can and should move certain services online to protect people’s health and reduce the demand on in-person resources at the MVC,” said Dunn.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners unanimously introduced the county government’s 2021 Budget tonight, maintaining spending on critical infrastructure projects, human services, and public safety while building reserves for unforeseen impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, with no county tax increase for existing taxpayers.
Commissioner Deborah Smith
The proposed $320 million budget directs $38.6 million toward educational, cultural, and economic initiatives outlined by the Board of Commissioners to serve all Morris County municipalities, and includes a $35.8 million Capital Spending Plan.
“The pandemic has been straining family budgets in Morris County for almost a year. We were determined to bring in a county budget that did not increase the tax burden on our existing taxpayers. But we also remained focused on maintaining the programs, services.
Morris County’s new budget anticipates ending the year with and infrastructure improvements that our residents have come to rely upon in Morris County, and the result is this stable, fiscally responsible spending plan for 2021,” said Commissioner Deborah Smith, Chair of the Board’s Budget Committee.
Morris County’s new budget anticipates ending the year with a strong fund balance to ensure reserves are stable going into a year when the pandemic may cause uncertain economic trends.
Morris County Commissioner Kathy DeFillippo
“With rating agencies often recommending reserves equal to one or two months of operating expenses, the budget supports an expectation Morris County will be able to continue the AAA bond rating it has held for the past 45 years. Maintaining the highest rating for fiscal responsibility possible has enabled Morris County to borrow funding needed in the past for critical projects at rates that save millions of dollars for taxpayers,” said Commissioner Kathryn DeFillippo, a Budget Committee member.
“This is a structurally sound budget that allows us to continue our effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including our extensive operations at the Morris County Regional COVID-19 Vaccination Center while addressing our responsibility to maintain our infrastructure and serve the county’s public safety, human services, and educational needs,” said Commissioner John Krickus, another member of the Budget Committee.
Critical Community Investments
The County College of Morris, the Morris County Vocational School District, the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, and the Morris County Office of the Superintendent of Schools will be supported by $18.8 million in spending in the new budget. Other program investments include:
$13.4 million dedicated to the 20,100-acre Morris County Park Commission system.
$5.8M for the Morris County Library and Heritage Commission
$591K for Economic Development and Tourism
Capital Projects
The budget includes a $35.8 million Capital Spending Plan for 2021, offset by $11 million in grants, and it dedicates $4.9 million toward bridge and culvert projects, as well as $9.5 million for 28 miles of roadway resurfacing in 19 towns.
A few of the planned road improvement projects include:
Boonton Avenue in Montville Township
Green Pond Road in Rockaway Township
Lincoln Park Road/Oak Road in Pequannock Township
Bartley Road/Bartley Chester Road in Washington and Mt. Olive townships
To take advantage of favorable interest rates available in 2020, Morris County expedited the 9-1-1 Communications Center upgrades. The $26 million projects will upgrade and double the operating capacity of the county’s emergency radio network and infrastructure, which is used by all Morris County law enforcement, emergency management, and municipal first responders every day.
COVID-19 Pandemic
The 2021 Budget anticipates a continuation of Morris County’s dedicated response to the virus outbreak, including:
Operating a COVID-19 testing facility at the County College of Morris
Staffing and operating the Morris County COVID-19 Regional Vaccination Center at the Rockaway Townsquare Mall, where more than 2,400 vaccinations will be delivered per day when vaccine supplies increase in New Jersey
Expanding Emergency Management and Public Health resources to maintain Morris County’s response to an unpredictable virus outbreak
The Morris County Commissioners will consider the adoption of their operating budget at a public meeting to be held on March 24, 2021, at 7:05 p.m.
View PowerPoint presentations of the proposed 2021 operating and capital budgets click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Acting Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, and Town of Boonton Captain Stephen Jones announce the following update on an active investigation into the discovery of two bodies in a pond on February 23, 2021.
On Tuesday, February 23, Warda Syed, female, 35; and Uzair Ahmed, male, 11 were located deceased in a pond in the Upper Pond section of Grace Lord Park in Boonton.
An unattended male child, 6, was also located at the scene unharmed. The two juvenile males were determined to be Warda Syed’s children. All three individuals are Boonton residents.
The name of the 6-year old child will not be released.
This is an ongoing joint investigation being conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Boonton Police Department Detective Bureau and Boonton Fire Department Swiftwater Rescue Team.
BOONTON — Acting Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, and Town of Boonton Captain Stephen Jones announce an active investigation is underway following the discovery of two bodies in a pond on February 23, 2021.
On February 23, 2021, at approximately 5:39 p.m., law enforcement was dispatched to
the Upper Pond section of Grace Lord Park in Boonton on a report of an unattended child. While searching the area, law enforcement located the bodies of a 35-year-old female and an approximately 11-year-old child in the water.
The unattended child, age 6, was unharmed. At this time, the identity of these individuals will not be released and the investigation is ongoing.
This is an active and ongoing joint investigation being conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Boonton Police Department Detective Bureau and Boonton Fire Department Swiftwater Rescue Team.
PARSIPPANY — On Black Friday, November 27, 2020, in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Yellow Pepper, Peruvian Restaurant, decided to make a brave, bold, and risky move and open the doors to their new venture for the first time.
Personally, I am glad that they took that chance because unquestionably this authentic restaurant offers another culinary adventure to our already culturally rich community. I made it a point to be there on that day and thoroughly enjoyed the meal, the ambiance, and the genuinely friendly and accommodating service. I also had the opportunity at that time to meet with new owners, the friendly and personable, Victor and Damaris Arrese. (By the way, Mr. Yellow Pepper is a reference to the flavorful aji amarillo pepper, which is a staple ingredient in many Peruvian dishes). I knew it was about time for a return visit to this enjoyable restaurant, and a restaurant review.
The ambiance is casual, comfortable, cozy, and yet at the same time somewhat classy
As I entered, I was warmly welcomed and offered the table of my choice. As I remembered from my previous visit, the ambiance is casual, comfortable, cozy, and yet at the same time somewhat classy. On entering the restaurant, you immediately encounter an attractive, semi-circled, sparkling clean sports type bar. I personally liked the relaxing vibe. Tiled floors, comfortable lighting, several smaller two-person tables along the sides, three large screen televisions, sound off, above the bar. Great place to catch a game once restrictions are relaxed and that opportunity becomes available again. The attractive, spacious, interior of the restaurant is designed with two levels, the second level, complete with a fireplace, provides an extremely comfortable dining area, which surrounds the lower section. Slightly muted music in the background, brick, and wood accents throughout, provides diners with a cozy, warm feeling, with simple, nicely displayed artifacts and paintings on the walls. Decorative black tables and chairs complete the overall appearance offering a casual, upscale, classy, stylish look. The entire restaurant appeared spotless and well organized, and it was obvious that all recommended COVID-19 health precautions were being adhered to.
Damaris Arrese
I introduced myself to Damaris Arrese, who was my hostess this evening, and it was very humbling that she remembered me from my first visit in November. Even recalling where I sat, and what I ordered. I was obviously impressed. Unfortunately, Victor Arrese, was not in on this evening, but an extremely friendly and gracious Mrs. Arrese was more than willing to sit and talk with me about the restaurant and its diverse menu. Interestingly, Peruvian food, now widely recognized as one of the best cuisines in the world, is heavily influenced by Chinese, Japanese, and South East Asian cultures making it a formidable force in world gastronomy, all of which makes Peruvian food so distinctive and interesting.
Prior to opening Mr. Yellow Pepper, Mr. and Mrs. Arrese owned a small Peruvian restaurant in Passaic, Mar y Tierra, their first venture into the restaurant industry. When the opportunity arose to acquire the former Mule Tavern Bar & Grill on North Beverwyck Road, they saw it as a wonderful opportunity to bring their great Peruvian cuisine to the area in a much larger venue, despite the ongoing pandemic chaos. Residing in the area and having immediate family who live in Parsippany also helped move that decision along.
Causas de Pollo
Mr. Yellow Pepper take pride in the fact that they use only the finest, fresh ingredients in the preparation of their dishes and serve authentic Peruvian traditional fusion recipes, offering some of the best international cuisines from around the world. It is obvious that Mr. and Mrs. Arrese have significant pride in not only their food and service, but in what they bring to the community as well.
Lomo Saltado
During my first visit I also went very traditional in my selections. Causas de Pollo (Peruvian yellow pepper, lime & spices blended into a creamy potato mash served with a topping of your choice) for an appetizer; Peru’s second most popular dish, Lomo Saltado for my entree (Beef tenderloin strips, red onions, tomatoes, seasoned with soy sauce and flambeed in a fire wok).
Tried the traditional Pisco Sour (Peru’s most popular drink) to top off a great meal. Every bite was as delicious the last, delectable, and exciting flavors, and the portions were more than ample.
Pisco Sour
As much as I enjoyed those dishes that I tried that first night I was anxious to experience some, if not all, of the many other appealing selections on the menu. As soon as I sat down, my very amiable server, Paco, promptly arrived with hot rolls and butter, while I pondered over the diverse and appealing menu. When finally deciding on a short rib dish, (more about that later) to compliment my meal, I ordered a glass of Peruvian Tabernero Cabernet Sauvignon recommended by Mrs. Arrese, who was also serving as my hostess. I then focused on the Pulpo Anticuchero as my appetizer (Charcoal grilled octopus served with grinded rustic potatoes and unique Peruvian choclo corn, with a side of “Anticuchera Sauce”). Fantastic!
Pulpo Anticuchero
The very fresh Pulpo (Octopus) was beautifully plated and presented. It tasted so fresh and tender one would think they just caught it. Just looking at the tantalizing visual of this dish, in my mind I had already formulated what it was going to taste like. I was not disappointed! The Pulpo was tender, succulent, crispy on the outside and deliciously meaty inside, perfectly chewy, with a nice smokey flavor, and accompanied with side of tasty, flavor packed, golden yellow pepper Anticuchera sauce, that was perfect for dipping both the Pulpo and the potatoes. As I said, this was an appetizer, but it could have honestly been an entrée by itself.
Seco De Carne
For my entrée I decided to go with another traditional Peruvian dish, Seco De Carne C/Frijoles (Beef short ribs, cooked in traditional Northern Peruvian style w/rich cilantro and black beer sauce, served w/rice, beans and crilla salad). Mrs. Arrese informed me after I ordered it, that his was the second most ordered dish on their menu.
I love short ribs, and these were perfectly cooked; moist, succulent, with a savory umami deliciousness. The tender meat which fell off the bone at the touch of my fork, blended perfectly, and was enhanced with the accompanying sides and sauce, as well as with a separate side dish of nice, flaky white rice.
Patrick Minutillo
I was anxious to try the Crema Volteada De Lucuma (Lucuma flavored flan/custard) which I have heard is delicious, and quite different from the other style flans I am used to. But, being stuffed after devouring the generous sized portions of my other dishes I could not force another bite, so I guess that dessert will have to wait for another day.
As usual, I left Mr. Yellow Pepper with a full stomach and a smile on my face. Genuinely nice dining experience, delicious food and drink, beautiful restaurant, wonderful people, top-notch, friendly, accommodating, and professional service, and reasonable prices. What more can you want from a restaurant? Obviously, this is a restaurant that I would recommend giving a try.
As always, please try to come out and help support all our local, small independent businesses in any way you can.
Ample Parking, Take Out, Dine In, Delivery. Closed Monday.
Mr. Yellow Pepper Peruvian Restaurant is located at 450 North Beverwyck Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054. For more information call (973) 588-7254 or click here.
Some friends enjoying dinner.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine – March 2021
Dear Editor:
Nearly a year into the coronavirus pandemic shutting down the United States, it’s time for our leaders in Washington to put aside partisan bickering and do something to help. President Biden’s American Rescue Plan to stop coronavirus and deal with the pandemic’s impact on our nation does just that. And the American people agree.
Real American unity is more than about politicians agreeing on a piece of legislation – it’s about getting vaccines in arms, safely reopening schools for in-person instruction, giving every American a chance to survive the crises facing our nation, and preserve critical jobs and services in our states, cities and town.
And President Biden’s American Rescue Plan meets this moment. According to major polls, there is more bipartisan support for the American Rescue Plan than virtually anything in the last few years
Even West Virginia’s Republican Gov. Jim Justice said, “We need to go big, and if we waste some money now, well, we waste some money. But absolutely, we’ve got too many people hurting and the economy is going to sputter and we’ve got to get ourselves out of this mess.”
We need unity to get out of the coronavirus crisis. We need the American Rescue Plan.
PARSIPPANY — Forcing school children to take standardized tests this year would be an unnecessary burden heaped on students, parents and teachers, says Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, a member of the Joint Committee on Public Schools.
“I don’t know what of value would be gained by forcing students to take standardized tests when their class schedules have been disrupted for the past year and will continue to be disrupted because of the Covid-19 virus,” said DeCroce (R- Morris).
DeCroce joins state Sen. Declan O’Scanlon (R-Monmouth) who is supporting the New Jersey Education Association’s call for Gov. Phil Murphy to cancel standardized testing this year.
“I agree with Senator O’Scanlon’s position and that of the NJEA,” said DeCroce. “The stress and disruption that normally accompanies standardized tests is an unnecessary burden for all involved at this time. I don’t see a valid reason to put parents, students and teachers through the rigors of standardized test that is likely of little or no value.”
DeCroce said the time and energy put into conducting standardized tests should be directed to developing a statewide plan to reopen schools safely.
“We owe the students the quality education that they are guaranteed under our state constitution. We owe their parents the leadership and concern to deliver quality education in these extraordinary times,” added DeCroce.
The assemblywoman, who has served nine years on the joint education committee, said the state needs to show more leadership on developing a workable plan to get children back in the classrooms.
“Every year we hear people in the administration and elected officials in the legislature tell us how important education is. We need to put meaning to those words and work now to build a framework that will shape the reopening of schools in a safe and effective way,” added DeCroce.
The assemblywoman says she supports teachers being a priority for Covid-19 vaccinations.
“Teachers need to be protected if we expect them to go back to the classrooms,” said DeCroce. “Vaccinations are a first step in an overall school reopening plan that so far has not materialized.”
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Vocational School District, in partnership with County College of Morris (CCM), is offering a new Criminal Justine share-time program for Morris County high school students. The program is for students interested in law, public safety, corrections, and security.
Students will learn through college-level work and hands-on activities.
“We are thrilled to offer a new program for high school students who are interested in pursuing careers in criminal justice and public safety. We know many high school students will be excited to get a jump start in earning college credits in this subject area”, said Shari Castelli, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction at Morris County Vocational School District.
Coursework will include “Intro to Public Safety Careers,” “Criminology,” “Intro to Policing,” “Intro to Emergency Management,” “Juvenile Delinquency,” “Criminal Law and Procedure,” “Forensic Science,” and “Cultural Diversity.”
Castelli also stated the program would include strong private and public-sector program partners who offer work-based learning experiences through industry partnerships.
Upon completion of the two-year program, students will earn 36 credits from CCM with three possible pathways after graduation for career advancement:
1) Direct entry into the workforce with college credit
2) One-year completion of Associate Degree
3) Transfer with advanced standing to a four- year college or university
Students in 10th Grade may apply via online application by clicking here. The application deadline is March 26.
Learn more about the program and application process at an upcoming virtual information session on February 24 at 6:30 p.m. Register today for the Share Time Programs by clicking here.
The district’s share time programs provide half-day specialized career and technical education training as part of a student’s junior and senior year high school program. The programs prepare students for career-related employment and post-secondary placement.
The Morris County Vocational School District (www.mcvts.org) offers programs for Morris County high school students, including Career Academies, Share Time Programs, and Adult Education programs. For additional information, contact Gina DiDomenico, Student Recruitment & Community Relations Specialist at didomenicog@mcvts.org or call (973) 627-4600 ext. 277.
Of course, Chef Pucciarello continued to learn and hone his craft during these great experiences, all of which have led to Chef Pucciarello and Donna Fallon opening the doors to their new restaurant in 2017. Both owners take great pride in the fact that their restaurant is built on integrity, comfort, family values, customer service, and most of all on ‘respect for the ingredient’, and of course, the customer, many of whom are considered family. It would be remiss if I did not note that Pucciarello’s strives to serve only the finest fresh Italian food, utilizing the freshest seasonal and local ingredients available.
Dear Editor: