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NJAIAW National Girls & Women in Sports Day Celebration

PARSIPPANY — Sydney Petzinger of Parsippany High School and Aneri Path of Parsippany Hills High School are 2021 High School Award Winners representatives for the National Girls and Women in Sports Day through the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA).

Cristina Fernandez was named NJAIAW Woman of the Year. (Click here for the article).

Since 1972, and the creation of Title IX there has been a 445% increase in women playing college sports and 990% increase in girls playing in high school sports.

It is evident that with the creation of Title IX, its impact is long term and far-reaching. Congratulate all of the outstanding accomplishments of the girls and women who represent Parsippany today. Let’s Lead Her Forward.

Cristina Fernandez named NJAIAW Woman of the Year

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany’s Cristina Fernandez, a senior at Seton Hall University, has been named New Jersey Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (NJAIAW) Woman of the Year.

The NJAIAW celebrates the women and girls of NJ and their contributions to the sport.

The group awards Woman of the Year accolades to outstanding female student-athletes throughout NJ for their significant contributions to their institution and community through athletic accomplishments, academic success, and community involvement. Not only is Cristina an excellent student and a fantastic cross-country athlete, but she is also a long-time volunteer at Saint Peter the Apostle’s food pantry, serving the community of Parsippany.

Cristina is a 2017 graduate of Parsippany High School.

Let Parents Watch Their Kids Play, says Dunn

MORRIS COUNTY — Assemblywoman Aura Dunn is urging Governor Phil Murphy to reconsider restrictions on spectators at indoor sports venues following Wednesday’s announcement of increased capacity and dining hours for restaurants and certain businesses.
“If casinos and entertainment venues can increase capacity, then parents should be permitted to watch their children play indoor sports under those same limits. Arbitrarily applying different rules for spectators at a sports game doesn’t make any sense,” said Dunn (R-Morris).
Currently, indoor practices and competitions are limited to ten people. However, if the number of individuals who are necessary for practice or competition, such as players, coaches, and referees, exceeds 10, the practice or competition may proceed provided no spectators are present.
“As long as there are safety protocols like social distancing and masks, I don’t understand why parents need to be subjected to different rules than if they were to go to the gym or theater,” said Dunn. “These student-athletes and parents are playing by the rules, but yet they are subjected to restrictions that defy logic. Parents deserve to supervise their children when they are participating in an activity. I would like the governor to reexamine the facts and help restore some sense of normalcy for these student-athletes and moms and dads.”
Earlier this week, Murphy announced restaurants, entertainment venues, and gyms could operate past 10:00 p.m. and increase capacity limits to 35 percent from 25, with a maximum of 150 people.

Letter to the Editor: Thank Township Workers For Job Well Done

parsippany focusDear Editor:

Following one of the biggest recent snowfalls, I would first like to recognize the members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Department of Public Works for a job well done. And our neighbors who helped local seniors and those with disabilities. As well those who cleared around their nearest fire hydrants.

It was great seeing Parsippany, the Empire Diner, and Mayor Soriano on WCBS TV2 and also on Channel 12 thanking the township workers and the members of the volunteer fire departments, many of who staffed the firehouses to ensure a quick response during the heavy snowfall.

Grateful to live in Parsippany and in the Rainbow Lakes Section of our township.

Mark Rabson

 

Letter to the Editor: Utility Budget Transfers to the General Account

parsippany focusDear Editor:

Every year, during discussions about the new budget, the subject of transferring money from the utility surpluses to the general budget inevitably comes up. The massive utility rate increases that were recently approved have strengthened the balance sheet on the utility side, but they have also made it easier to continue using transfers to subsidize the general budget. In my opinion, the administration and the council should take action this year to eliminate these transfers once and for all.

Two years ago, council members Peterson and McCarthy first proposed the simplest way to eliminate the transfers – that is, raise taxes by whatever amount is necessary. I now agree with them, but with one modification.

I estimate that an increase in taxes of 5½% above the 2% cap, or 7½% in total, would be sufficient to eliminate the entire utility transfer amount of $2.5 million. But I believe that the extra 5½% needed to eliminate the transfers can be assessed in a way that is actually revenue neutral to the taxpayer.

Once the utilities are freed from having to make these transfers, the revenue in the utility budgets will increase by $2.5 million. These are excess funds that the utilities really don’t need now, because of the recently approved utility rate increases of 39%. So, increasing general budget tax rates by a sufficient amount to eliminate the utility transfers can be made revenue neutral to the taxpayer by simultaneously decreasing part of the 39% utility rate increase by an amount equal to the transfers they no longer have to make.

As a bonus, by shifting some taxation from the utilities to the general budget, participants in the Senior Freeze Program will actually see their total tax bill reduced. Under the Senior Freeze, participants are shielded from any increases in the general budget because any tax increase over the freeze number is reimbursed by the state. In contrast, utility rate increases come directly out of pocket and are not reimbursed. For the record, I am not eligible for the Senior Freeze Program.

I believe that the council has a fiduciary obligation to the taxpayers, especially the ones who participate in the Senior Freeze Program, to adopt some form of this proposal.

Bob Venezia
Parsippany

Board of Adjustment Meeting Scheduled for February 10

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment has a meeting scheduled for Wednesday, February 10 at 7:30 p.m.

Click here to download the agenda.

Click here for access to the WebEx event.

The agenda includes the following applications:

Application No. 19:67, Francisco Mateo, 21 Farrand Drive, Block: 712 Lot: 25 Zone: R-3 ‘C’ Variance to legalize an existing pool, pool equipment and patio contrary to Sec. 430-35 Cols. 9 & 13.

Application No. 20:36, Vamsi Kolli, 35 Lake Drive, Block: 438 Lot: 1 Zone: R-3, “C’ Variance to legalize a shed on a concrete pad contrary to Sec. 430-10.C. (Side and Rear Yards).

Application 20:46, Michael Di Giuseppe, 19 Ogden Place, Block: 708 Lot: 4 Zone: R-3  ‘C’ Variance to construct an irregular inground swimming pool & patio and 6 ft. high fence contrary to Sec. 430-11.A. and Section 430-35 Col. 13.

Application 19:63 NY Renaissance, 1209 Littleton Road, Block: 199 Lot: 48.1 Zone: R-3 Preliminary and Final Major Site Plan/“C/D” Variance/Major Soil Move to construct a building for residential and commercial use. Carried from October 21, 2020

Application 20:41, Bobst North America, Inc., 10 Waterview Boulevard, Block: 421 Lot: 29.2. Zone: COD, ‘C’ Variance for signage.

Application 20:18, Jonnalagadda, 138 North Beverwyck Road, Block: 511 Lot: 2 Zone: B-5. Preliminary and Final Major Site Plan w/‘C’/‘D’ Variance for construction of a mixed-use building. Carried from December 2, 2020

 

Murphy Signs Executive Order Ending 10:00 p.m. Curfew on Restaurants

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 219, which increases indoor capacity limits from 25 percent to 35 percent for several businesses, including food and beverage establishments and entertainment and recreational businesses, effective Friday, February 5 at 8:00 a.m.

The Executive Order also lifts the 10:00 p.m. curfew for in-person indoor restaurant service, however, local officials may continue to regulate the hours of operation of indoor restaurant service and indoor operations of other non-essential businesses after 8:00 p.m., as they have been able to since November 12. The prohibition on seating at indoor bar areas remains in effect.

“Since the beginning of the pandemic, my Administration has used science, data, and facts to guide our decision-making process,” said Governor Murphy. “The downward trend of COVID-19 cases in our hospitals, coupled with the state’s decreasing rate of transmission, allows us to confidently expand our indoor capacity limits without leading to undue further stress on our health care systems. I am incredibly grateful to the millions of New Jerseyans who have been vigilant in practicing social distancing and wearing face coverings, and I urge everyone to continue their efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19.”

The Executive Order increases the following indoor capacity limits from 25 percent to 35 percent:

  • Food or beverage establishments, including restaurants, cafeterias, private non-profit clubs, and food courts, with or without a liquor license, and bars;
  • Entertainment and recreational businesses, including casinos and gyms; and
  • Personal care services, including barbershops and nail salons.

The Order will also rescind the previous statewide requirement that food and beverage establishments close their indoor areas to in-person service between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. each day.  Casinos and any other retail, recreational, or entertainment business open to the public may also resume indoor food and beverage service during those hours.

Municipalities and counties will still be permitted to impose hours of operation restrictions on non-essential businesses between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. each day. This includes restrictions on dining in restaurants, although they cannot restrict takeout or delivery services. Municipalities and counties have been able to impose these hours restrictions since November 12 of last year, when Governor Murphy signed Executive Order No. 195.

Religious ceremonies or services, political activities, wedding ceremonies, funerals, and memorial services that are currently limited to 25 percent of the room’s capacity up to 150 people will now be limited to 35 percent of the room’s capacity up to 150 people. Performances at entertainment centers, including movie theaters and performing arts centers, and concert venues, will similarly be capped at 35 percent up to a maximum of 150 people.  Indoor meetings of addiction groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, will also be limited to 35 percent up to 150 individuals.

The Order will take effect on Friday, February 5 at 8:00 a.m.

A copy of Executive Order No. 219 can be downloaded by clicking here.

$12,000 in Scholarship Money Available to Morris County June Graduates

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Retirees Education Association Philanthropic Fund, Inc. (MCREAPF) is offering six scholarships to Morris County residents who are attending and will be graduated from a public high school. This scholarship is for students who plan to pursue a career in education and who will be attending an approved four-year accredited college or university offering a Bachelor’s Degree with an education major.

The scholarships are for $2,000. The recipients will be sent $2,000. after the chairperson receives a copy of the first-semester transcript which indicates enrollment in the field of education and a successful academic record.

The deadline for the receipt of applications is Friday, April 30, 2021. Scholarship applications are available at your high school guidance office or click here.

Morris Habitat for Humanity to Host Virtual Hearts & Hammers Gala

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris Habitat for Humanity announces its first-ever virtual Hearts & Hammers Gala on Thursday, February 25, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., in lieu of an in-person event. The fun-filled evening will raise funds for the organization’s largest project to date — a 25-unit condominium complex planned for Randolph. Registration is free and open to the public.

Tune in to the live-streaming event to learn more about Morris Habitat’s mission to provide affordable housing as well as its impact on local communities. Attendees will hear directly from Habitat homeowner families who will share their stories, as well as honorees, volunteers, and sponsors who have helped make Morris Habitat’s life-changing work possible. The 16th annual celebration, hosted by Toni Yates of WABC-TV, will also feature new construction projects, plans for the future, prize giveaways, and ways people can get involved–even during the pandemic.

“This has been a very challenging year, and the pandemic has put a spotlight on just how important safe, decent and affordable housing really is,” said Morris Habitat for Humanity CEO, Blair Schleicher Wilson. “While we would rather be gathering in person, the virtual gala will allow people to help build homes without ever leaving home.”

Corporate sponsors are stepping up to lend support to Morris Habitat’s vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live.  Major corporate sponsors to date include GAF, Bayer, Valley Bank, Lakeland Bank, and Schindler.

To learn more, register, or sponsor the virtual gala, click here or contact Stephanie Buonarota at (973) 349-7612.

Morris Habitat for Humanity is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization committed to building homes, communities, and hope. Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Morris Habitat builds new homes and provides home repair services to income-eligible families in Morris and Middlesex Counties as well as Fanwood, Plainfield, Scotch Plains, Green Brook, North Plainfield, and Watchung. Since 1985, Morris Habitat has served more than 650 households through homeownership opportunities, home preservation, and international home building programs. Proceeds from the ReStore have helped to fund construction while diverting almost 5,800 tons of useable material from local landfills.  For more information click here or call (973) 891-1934.

Judge Rules Overwhelmingly in Favor of Morris GOP

MORRIS COUNTY — Superior Court Judge Berdote Byrne has ruled in favor of the Morris County Republican Committee (MCRC).
In her decision, Judge Berdote Byrne denied the plaintiff’s claims, calling them “recklessly misleading” and “not supported by the factual evidence”. In this admonishment, she also ordered the plaintiffs to reimburse MCRC for all legal costs.

“We are pleased that the Judge affirmed what we already knew and are looking forward to our meeting on Saturday where the County Committee will finally have their voices heard”, said Chairwoman Laura Ali.

On Saturday, February 6, MCRC members will vote on a bylaw modification to adopt a county line in Morris. The proposed adoption will give Morris County Committee members the power to endorse candidates in a primary – a role that nearly every duly elected committee person in the state already holds.

Zagursky’s Bar & Grill: Where Everyone Knows Your Name

HANOVER — Looking for a burger that is simply good enough, you will certainly have no problem finding one among the numerous fast-food, chain style, cookie-cutter burger places that dot Parsippany’s highways and byways. Likewise, if your preference leans towards a more creative, gourmet-style burger, Parsippany offers a diverse choice of gastro pubs and fine restaurants that would certainly meet your needs.  For me, I do not think you can do much better than finding that often elusive, tasty, fresh off the grill, crispy, juicy, savory, classic American burger. Not surprisingly, where better to find that classic American favorite than at a true, iconic, neighborhood American dive bar, often just referred to by its regulars as Z’s.

On Mount Pleasant Avenue in Whippany, right off Route 10 and basically a couple of miles from the border of Parsippany, you will find Zagursky’s Bar & Grill.  A simple, non-descript looking white house, family-owned and operated, long time, neighborhood watering hole and sports bar, Zagursky’s is a true throwback type bar and restaurant, with friendly and welcoming service, delicious food, cold beer, and a nice pour.  One of those “where everyone knows your name” places. Originally opened in 1945 by Anna and John Zagursky, and currently run by grandsons, Bobby “Stitch” Yannotta and Kevin “KP” Yannotta, this family tradition continues. The moment you walk in you can feel the high energy of this sports-style bar scene, filled with lots of laughter, good friends, and lively conversation.  After three generations of providing their most loyal and regular customers with great bar food you can be confident, they are doing something special.

I must admit, I have an affection for these no-frills, non-pretentious places that come with a great backstory.  They are getting harder and harder to find so it is a treat to visit them while you still can. Zagursky’s, for me, is reminiscent of a little shot and beer joint I owned in the late 70’s, but Z’s is so much better.  A lot of comforts sometimes, just to take a step back in time and smile; and it was a pleasure to meet and talk with the very personable, cordial, and amusing Yannotta brothers.

Zagursky’s burger with fresh toppings of lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles, all firmly held together with a sesame seed bun

I know I started this review highlighting the Zagursky’s burger since I think that is where Zargusky’s stands out from the pack, and I will get back to that later, but Z’s does have much more to offer than burgers on their menu.  Stitch’s reputation for creating delicious personal-sized bar pies was something we could not resist, so as a starter we decided to kick off this meal-sharing both sausage and a pepperoni-onion pie.  Delicious, crispy, thin-crust, and slightly well done, with a perfect little bit of char on the bottom and edges of the crust. The sauce was tangy and tasty with just the right amount of cheese and toppings.

Mozzarella Sticks

Excellent, properly prepared pies and we were off to a good start. Next, out came the onion rings, mozzarella sticks, and hot and spicy chicken wings.  Ample and satisfying bar food just as you would expect it. The onion rings were perfectly fried, crunchy, and tender, the mozzarella sticks were firm to the touch and filled with the nice chewy cheese, and the 12 wings, ordered hot and spicy, were surprisingly large and meaty, with just the right amount of heat and bite to awaken your taste buds.

Zagursky’s half-pound, bacon, cheeseburger had been rated among the best in New Jersey just a few years back, so I was anxiously looking forward to enjoying this savory treat, and it did not disappoint.

Crispy and crunchy on the outside, moist, and juicy inside, cooked to medium with fresh toppings of lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles, all firmly held together with a sesame seed bun.  While the others were deciding on their orders Stitch happened to mention that he had just made fresh Kielbasa that day, so by special request he came up with his first time ever, creative Kielbasa and sauerkraut slider.  Well, that slider is a keeper, moist, tender, and perfectly seasoned Kielbasa offset with the slightly sour, tangy bite of the sauerkraut.  After all this great food, accompanied by a very cold and fresh tasting tap beer, I could not eat another bite.  We all left with our stomachs full, a smile on our faces, and a promise to return very soon.

Delicious, crispy, thin crust and slightly well done, with a perfect little bit of char on the bottom and edges of the crust

If you have not been to Zagursky’s Bar & Grill I would recommend you give it a shot.  Great food, exceptionally clean, friendly atmosphere, and you are not going to break the bank here as the prices are very reasonable.  If you are looking for a good spot to just relax and catch a game, Zargusky’s has seven large-screen televisions conveniently located around their good-sized wooden bar; and if you are looking for something a little quieter, a family-friendly atmosphere, Zargusky’s does have a separate dining room detached from the bar area which will meet your needs.

And, as always, please come out and support all our small, independent local businesses in any way you can.

Take out, Delivery, Ample Parking

All COVID-19 Health Requirements Strictly Enforced

Zagursky’s Bar & Grill is located at43 Mount Pleasant Avenue, Whippany, N.J. 07981. For more information call (973) 386-1412.

Murphy Signs Legislation to Combat Human Trafficking

MORRIS COUNTY — During National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation (A883) amending the “Human Trafficking Prevention, Protection, and Treatment Act” to direct the Commission on Human Trafficking to broaden its current mission of developing public awareness of human trafficking to also include awareness of victim remedies and services and trafficking prevention, including the creation of a public awareness sign. The Commission would develop and determine the language for the public awareness sign, which must contain the national, 24-hour toll-free hotline telephone service on human trafficking operated pursuant to federal law. 

“It is essential that we shine a light on the devastation of human trafficking and I am proud to enact legislation that will strengthen our mission to raise public awareness surrounding this pervasive issue,” said Governor Murphy. “We must remember that our battle against human trafficking extends far beyond this month as we commit to continuing the fight for fundamental human rights and freedoms.” 

The bill also requires the sign to be posted, to the extent practicable, in places that are clearly conspicuous and visible to employees, as well as members of the public, in such establishments as strip clubs or sexually-oriented businesses; places of business of employers of massage or bodywork therapists; bars, hotels, motels, and similar places of public accommodation; and in airports, rail and bus stations, truck stops, and service and safety rest areas located along interstate highways, as well as on all forms of public transportation, including railroad and passenger cars. A business or establishment that does not comply with the bill’s requirement for posting signs would be liable for a civil penalty of $300 for a first offense and $1000 for each subsequent offense.

Primary sponsors of the bill include Assemblymembers Thomas Giblin, Britnee Timberlake, Annette Quijano, and Senators Tom Kean and Nicholas Scutari. 

“The true prevalence of human trafficking cannot be confirmed by incomplete data,” said Assemblyman Tom Giblin. “As a result, we have to remain vigilant through public policy and committed to raising the level of public awareness.”

“Equipping people with the information to safely connect and refer a potential trafficking victim to the appropriate resources is crucial,” said Assemblywoman Britnee Timberlake. “We also have to do better to ensure there is no room for willful ignorance or complicity.”

“The trafficking hotline is one of the safest and most effective tools for victims to access emergency assistance,” said Assemblywoman Quijano. “Putting signage clearly displaying the hotline number all throughout our public spaces is, therefore, an incredibly important strategy to get those in crisis the help they need.”

“I am proud that this legislation will be enacted today, especially during Human Trafficking Awareness Month,” said Senate Minority Leader Tom Kean. “The more we raise awareness of human trafficking, including what it looks like, where it happens, and how to get help, the harder it will be for traffickers to get away with their despicable crimes.”

“Human trafficking is, unfortunately, more prevalent than people realize,” said Senator Nicholas Scutari. “Raising awareness about human trafficking is imperative and empowering the public to know the signs of someone in this scenario and how to report potential incidents will strengthen our efforts to combat this horrid practice.”

Morris County COVID-19 Vaccination Center and Morris County Testing Center Will Be Closed Tuesday, Feb. 2

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Regional COVID-19 Vaccination Center in Rockaway Township and the Morris County COVID-19 Testing Center at the County College of Morris (CCM) will both be closed tomorrow, Tuesday, February 2, due to inclement weather.

All vaccination appointments scheduled for tomorrow, Tuesday, February 2, at the Regional COVID-19 Vaccination Center at the Rockaway Townsquare Mall are rescheduled for Thursday, February 4, and individuals will be able to receive their vaccinations at the same time as their original Tuesday appointment.

All vaccination appointments that were canceled for today, Monday, February 1, have been rescheduled for Wednesday, February 3, at the same time as their original Monday appointment.

Everyone who had an appointment for a COVID-19 test that was canceled today, Monday, and tomorrow, Tuesday, at the testing center at CCM is urged to reschedule an appointment by clicking here.

Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting for February 2

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will conduct its regularly scheduled council meeting Tuesday, February 2 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.

For more information, please contact the Township Clerk’s office at (973) 263-4351 or email pthclerk@parsippany.net.

  • Click here to download R2021-032 Solar Garden Support

Town Hall and Municipal Operation Closures Extended to Tuesday Due to Weather

PARSIPPANY — Due to the winter weather, and out of an abundance of caution, Town Hall and municipal operations will be suspended Tuesday, February 2, 2021.

*Tomorrow’s Township Council Meeting will continue, as it is a virtual meeting*

Closures include but are not limited to:

  • All Town Hall operations. Zoning and Construction appointments are canceled and will have to be rescheduled. We apologize for this inconvenience.
  • Garbage, Recycling & Sanitation routes. Please take garbage and recycling away from curbs and streets so that crews can plow roadways.
  • Recycling Center.
  • Community Shuttle/Bus.
  • Community Center.
  • Food Pantry.
  • Health Department.
  • COVID-19 Testing Facility.
  • Municipal Court.

Remember parking on the road is not allowed, and will be subject to tickets and/or towing.

Please be safe and keep transportation to a minimum. To report power outages call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877), go to www.firstenergycorp.com and click the “Report Outage” link, or text OUT to 544487.

A letter from Dr. Barbara Sargent, Superintendent of Schools

PARSIPPANY — Dear Parsippany-Troy Hills School Community,

Thanks so much for a very smooth reopening last week. It was great having everyone back and seeing the buildings back to life again. It was evident that everyone was glad to see friends and colleagues, and the many students that bring meaning to our work.

With schools re-opened, we’ve focused again on keeping our students and staff safe. COVID-19 didn’t go away while we were in Fully Remote status and it is an unfortunate reality that positive cases will continue to occur over the next several months.  All of the protocols that were established in our Return to School Plan are still in place and we continually revise procedures as new NJ Department of Health guidelines are released.

With the winter season in full swing, the schools’ HVAC systems continue to play an important part in maintaining fresh air exchange in classrooms.  All schools have adequate ventilation, including operational heating and fresh air exchange.  Filter changes have been increased to quarterly which is more frequent than the manufacturer recommendations.  Temperatures are set to maintain inside air temperatures at 70-72 degrees. Our normal range as specified by State guideline A4097 would be 68-79 degrees for acceptable occupancy temperatures.  We never manually shut off any boilers or heating systems during the winter months. Several of our larger schools have automatic temperature setback capabilities, but this only reduces the indoor temperatures by 3-4 degrees and it would occur after normal building occupancy hours. Many staff members choose to open a window to increase fresh airflow in the classroom and this is certainly acceptable.

For those in our school community interested in health data, I encourage you to follow the data posted on the NJ Department of Health website by clicking here.   This is updated weekly and breaks out data by region.  We will not post a district data table.  With more than 40% of our students attending as Fully Remote and health information for these students inconsistently reported, this puts us in the position of presenting incomplete data right from the start.  We have reported cases of COVID at each impacted school since September and will continue to do so, as required by Governor Murphy’s Executive Order #192.

Here are a few additional informational points:

  • Friday, February 5 will be a ½ Afternoon Inservice Day.  Principals will communicate schedules next week.
  • A Progress Update on the 2020-21 District Goals was presented to the Board of Education last week and is available on the district website by clicking here.
  • An Open Letter to the Community from our Board of Education – “Impact Housing Developments will have on our Schools” – is also posted on the district website and can be viewed here.
  • We’re excited that all of our schools have opened their school libraries for book exchange.  Many schools are also hosting special literacy activities during the winter months to keep our readers connected to terrific stories.

Thank you for your continued patience and flexibility.  We are learning and adapting more and more as the weeks go by.  There are great things happening in our schools.  I am immensely proud of the teaching and learning occurring in this school community each day.

Sincerely,
Barbara Sargent, Ed.D.
​​​​​​​Superintendent of Schools

Local Students Named to New York Tech’s Presidential Honor List

PARSIPPANY — New York Institute of Technology congratulates more than 1,300 students who were named to the Fall 2020 Presidential Honor List. To qualify for the Presidential Honor List, a student must achieve a minimum semester GPA of 3.7 and complete at least 12 credit hours without any incomplete grades. Local students named include:

Mira Chothani
Krishnaben Jatinkumar Patel
Lipi Patel
Param Shukla
Jeet Vaishnav

New York Institute of Technology offers 90 undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in more than 50 fields of study, including computer science, data, and cybersecurity; biology and biomedical studies; architecture and design; engineering; health professions and medicine; IT and digital technologies; management; communications and marketing; education and counseling; and energy and sustainability. A nonprofit, independent, private, and nonsectarian institute of higher education, the New York Institute of Technology welcomes more than 9,000 students worldwide. The university has campuses in New York City (Manhattan) and Long Island (Old Westbury), New York; Jonesboro, Arkansas; and Vancouver, British Columbia, as well as programs around the world.

New York Institute of Technology embraces its mission to provide career-oriented professional education, give all qualified students access to opportunity, and support research and scholarship that benefit the larger world. More than 107,000 alumni comprise an engaged network of doers, makers, and innovators prepared to change the world, solve 21st-century challenges, and reinvent the future. For more information click here.

Progressive Insurance Commercial Filmed in Parsippany

PARSIPPANY — Progressive Insurance Commercial Filmed at Tech Toys in Parsippany.

Montclair State University Congratulates Fall 2020 Dean’s List

MORRIS COUNTY — Montclair State University congratulates Red Hawks named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List. Students residing in our readership area are:

Robert Manlapig of Parsippany

Fred Nagle of Morris Plains

Jewel Rankel of Morris Plains

Caroline Walz of Mount Tabor

Mike Ezpeleta of Lake Hiawatha

Dirgh Patel of Parsippany

Kathrina Ramirez of Parsippany

Gabrielle Barrese of Morris Plains

Bridget Murphy of Florham Park

Donato Casolaro of East Hanover

Natalie Koeber of Mountain Lakes

Brenna Gawley of Boonton

Roqaya Wafa of Parsippany

Jenna Kalynovych of Cedar Knolls

Courtney Calabrese of Parsippany

Alex Angulo of Parsippany

Abigail Fletcher of East Hanover

Kenny Slaman of Lake Hiawatha

Houda Sabeh of East Hanover

Sharanam Shah of Morris Plains

Farah Sheira of Lake Hiawatha

Lucia Lucarella of East Hanover

Disha Patel of Parsippany

Meaghan Debenedette of Parsippany

Jamie Bazaral of Parsippany

Ruby Murad of Madison

Kira Welenc of Morris Plains

Juan Gomez of Parsippany

Marissa Lawler of Parsippany

Gabriella Iacono of East Hanover

Justin Salluce of Parsippany

Remy Frost of Morris Plains

Michael Papaianni of East Hanover

Marcus Wan of Parsippany

Uzma Hasan of Parsippany

Ben Earl of Lake Hiawatha

Jenna Wear of Lake Hiawatha

Gianna Foti of East Hanover

Zinab Yaqoobi of Lake Hiawatha

Destiny Oridge of Parsippany

Phillip Metta of Lake Hiawatha

Neel Patel of Parsippany

Kayla Bush of Morris Plains

Patricia Vanderpool of Parsippany

Matt Chan of Parsippany

Yousof Mamoor of Parsippany

Juliana Barnhill of Morris Plains

Joyce David of Parsippany

Anabelen Delgado of Lake Hiawatha

Razan Akkad of Parsippany

Alex Pirl of Parsippany

Julia Leva of Boonton

Aesha Patel of Parsippany

Sakae Handerson of Boonton Twp

Leah Kashulines of Mountain Lakes

Uzair Ullah of Boonton

Nadya Almganhi of Parsippany

Miriam Aguirre of Parsippany

Gianna Hartigan of East Hanover

Robert Marciano of Mount Tabor

Sherilyn Ostlin of Morris Plains

Valerie Gargiulo of East Hanover

Christina Gillespie of Boonton

Jaydon Lynch of Boonton

Ally D’Addezio of East Hanover

John Lee of Parsippany

Robert Gillo of Morris Plains

Tori Freire of Parsippany

Ava Costa of East Hanover

Christina Proietto of Boonton

Connor Goodwin of Morris Plains

Nicholas Roepke of Parsippany

Kathy Lopez of Lake Hiawatha

Alfonse Napolitano of Morris Plains

Britt Ruggiero of East Hanover

Megan Leitner of Lake Hiawatha

Juan Ayala of Morris Plains

Rachel Klemovitch of Parsippany

Elizabeth Shivietz of Florham Park

Jack Keane of Morris Plains

Cassie Bodendorf of Boonton

Juliana DeAngelis of Morris Plains

Harrison Kraft of Boonton

Jeffrey Wear of Lake Hiawatha

Nicole Synnott of Parsippany

Timothy Rabel of Madison

Hamzah Turan of Parsippany

Lexi Becker of Boonton

Faith Mostillo of Parsippany

Suraj Makadia of Parsippany

Taylor Castelli of Morris Plains

Justin Green of Boonton

Julia Krevis of Boonton

Morgan Schaefer-Jones of Morris Plains

Kevin Cronin of East Hanover

Grace Keane of Morris Plains

Luz Martinez of Madison

Mareldi Denas of Parsippany

Emma Mendoza of Boonton

Nick Verducci of Parsippany

Jenna Corsi of East Hanover

Patrick Ferreira of Florham Park

Ashley Rosato of Florham Park

Michaela Tomanelli of Lake Hiawatha

Colette Murphy of Florham Park

Daniel Rodriguez of Parsippany

Ashley Loprete of East Hanover

Emma Wilcox of Cedar Knolls

Zoe Nolz of Parsippany

Giuliana Martinez of Boonton

David Fleitas-Guillen of Lake Hiawatha

Connor Dubeau of East Hanover

Megan Canzonieri of East Hanover

Andrea Delgado of Lake Hiawatha

Nikki-James Soto of Parsippany

Laila Tlack of Parsippany

Tran Chau of East Hanover

Melinda Cazimoski of Morris Plains

Giovanna Di Lauri of East Hanover

Deirdre Licciardi of Boonton Twp

Kaitlyn Sklow of Parsippany

Lydia Parker of Parsippany

Nami Patel of Parsippany

Gabriella Vazzano of Boonton

Sean DuBeau of East Hanover

Edwin Aguirre-Rosas of Parsippany

Ashley Perri of Boonton

Michael Rigillo of East Hanover

Bobby Ezzi of Boonton

Mariam Wali of Parsippany

Shalin Patel of Lake Hiawatha

Victoria Lupo of East Hanover

Alyssa Feola of Lake Hiawatha

Catalina Castelan of Lake Hiawatha

Nicole Davino of East Hanover

Gina Decroce of East Hanover

Sophia Castaneda of East Hanover

Lance Bancairen of Morris Plains

Michael Primamore of East Hanover

Kelly Coombs of Parsippany

Eric Wong of Parsippany

Bhoomika Vachhani of Parsippany

Jared Bazaral of Parsippany

Savannah Cerrato of Parsippany

Kashvi Rastogi of Morris Plains

John Trevisan of Parsippany

Sunah Choudhry of Boonton

Nabil Mamoor of Parsippany

Sarah Akrami of Parsippany

Amy Albin of Morris Plains

Samuel Pedersen of Parsippany

Manny Gonsalves of East Hanover

Alexis Cajas of Lake Hiawatha

Allison Hofmann of East Hanover

Morgan Villopoto of Parsippany

Larissa Salmeri of East Hanover

Nicholas Ezzi of Boonton

Fiona McCarthy of Morris Plains

Fatima Yaqoobi of Lake Hiawatha

Davin Budich of Parsippany

Ashley Johnson of Morris Plains

Jared Stock of Parsippany

Frankie Caruso of Florham Park

Devyn Reidy of Boonton Twp

Megha Patel of Parsippany

Eka Swamy of Lake Hiawatha

Connor Preston of Lake Hiawatha

Yasmine Ashour of Parsippany

Peter Jones of Parsippany

The Dean’s List, issued after the close of the Fall and Spring semesters by the academic deans, gives recognition to students with a 3.500 or higher semester GPA if a minimum of 12 credits is earned in courses that contribute to the GPA and if there are no IN (incomplete) grades for that semester.

Montclair State University is a research doctoral institution ranked in the top tier of national universities. Building on a distinguished history dating back to 1908, the University today has 11 colleges and schools that serve 21,000 undergraduate and graduate students with more than 300 doctoral, masters and baccalaureate programs. Situated on a beautiful, 252-acre suburban campus just 12 miles from New York City, Montclair State delivers the instructional and research resources of a large public university in a supportive, sophisticated, and diverse academic environment.

Onyx with the Cutest Little Grumpy Face wants a Furever Home

MORRIS COUNTY — Introducing Onyx, a 3.5-year-old Puggle with the cutest little grumpy face!!

Don’t let his face fool you though, Onyx is a happy-go-lucky pup who loves to do just about everything! Time for a walk? Onyx is ready. Time for a snuggle? Onyx is ready. Looking for a hiking buddy? Onyx is ready!

Onyx came to us because his family was moving and did not want to take him. Now, he’s ready to find his forever family! Onyx’s ideal home is one with a fenced-in yard where he can play with an active family who likes to take walks and go out and about. While he does love a good cuddle, he is no couch potato!

Onyx is good with other dogs and children 6+. We are unsure how he’d be with cats. Onyx is potty trained and super friendly.

If you’re looking for a new cutie to brighten up to your life, apply to adopt Onyx!

If you are interested in adopting, please fill out an application by clicking here.

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