MOUNTAIN LAKES – The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is thrilled to announce Healthy Kids Day. This free community event inspires kids and families to stay active, eat healthily, and embrace learning. Join us on Saturday, April 26, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., for an afternoon packed with family-friendly activities that encourage outdoor fitness, healthy nutrition, STEM exploration, and creative crafts.

A Fun-Filled Day for Families
Healthy Kids Day is an exciting opportunity for families to engage in enriching activities promoting a healthy lifestyle. With hands-on experiences in fitness, nutrition, and creative arts, this event aims to foster healthy habits in children and adults alike.

Special Highlights Include:

• Outdoor fitness challenges and interactive games
• STEM activities and creative crafts
• Nutrition displays
• A special performance by Allegro Music Academy at 12:30 p.m.

Community Partners & Giveaways
We are honored to partner with local organizations committed to supporting family wellness. Special thanks to MHA, Chick-fil-A, Sunrise Senior Living, Delta Dental, and Saint Clare’s Hospital for their generous contributions.

• MHA is sponsoring a Mobile Gaming Truck, providing an exciting experience for kids of all ages.
• Chick-fil-A of Parsippany and Morris Plains donated grilled chicken wraps, available to the first 150 registered children.
• Every registered child will receive a FREE Y-bag with fun and healthy goodies!

How to Register
Participation is free, but registration is encouraged to ensure a fantastic experience. Families can sign up by visiting our website at www.lakelandhillsymca.com or our Community Engagement Manager, Kelly Horvath, at [email protected].

Join Us in Making Healthy Fun!

Sponsored nationally by Peanuts, Healthy Kids Day’s mission is to prepare families for a safe, healthy, and fun summer! We invite the community to unite, celebrate, and advance toward a healthier future.

For more information, visit www.lakelandhillsymca.com or follow us on social media for updates.

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Main Public Library patrons, located at 449 Halsey Road, can now enjoy a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. At the same time, they browse, study, or relax, thanks to the newly opened Coffee Nook, made possible through a generous donation from the Friends of the Library.

Located within the main library, the Coffee Nook offers a variety of hot beverages—including coffee, flavored lattes, tea, and hot chocolate—for just $2.00 per cup. The proceeds cover the cost of operation.

The project, nearly a year in the making, was the vision of Library Director Melissa Kuzma, who drew inspiration from similar amenities at other libraries. “Whether you’re looking for a pick-me-up during a long study session or craving a hot drink while enjoying one of our amazing programs, the Coffee Nook has you covered,” said Kuzma. “I am especially grateful to the Friends of the Library, whose generous donation made this project possible.”

For years, Parsippany residents have taken to social media expressing the desire for a “coffee place” where they could unwind—either with friends or alone. The Coffee Nook now fills that gap within the community’s central hub.

Friends of the Library members were quick to share their excitement. “It is a wonderful asset to the Library,” said Theresa Troiano. “What’s better than coffee and a book?”

Brenda Jackson, another active member, added, “I love the library Reading Parties, and it would be great to enjoy a cup of coffee with my novel.”

Even self-professed coffee connoisseurs were impressed. Membership Coordinator Praveena Grover said, “I am very picky about my coffee, but this was the best latte I have ever had from a machine.” New member Carol Meyer echoed her enthusiasm: “I was excited to have the first cup of coffee after the ribbon cutting. Lavazza Coffee is one of my favorite brands.”

Nicholas Jackson, Head of Information Services, summarized the staff’s sentiments, stating, “It is wonderful to be able to offer coffee and tea to our many customers who spend so much time studying and working in the Library.”

The Coffee Nook is open during regular library hours. Whether you are deep in research or simply savoring a good book, this cozy corner offers just the right blend of comfort and community.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, May 2025. Click here to view the entire magazine.

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills invite residents to an important seminar, “Learn How to Protect Your Assets as You Age,” presented by Robert A. Bernstein, Esq., on Wednesday, May 14, at 10:30 a.m. at the Parsippany Senior Center, located at 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha (Boonton if GPS-ing).

With over 35 years of experience in Elder Law, Estate Administration, Trusts and Estate Planning, and Special Needs Planning, Mr. Bernstein will address critical issues that arise with aging. His presentation will offer insight into protecting a healthy spouse when the other becomes ill, strategies for asset transfer, and the implications of outdated legal documents.

The seminar will cover:

• Steps to prevent asset erosion due to long-term illness or care
• Timing of asset transfers
• Importance of Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Health Care Proxies
• Guidance on Advance Medical Directives

This session is highly relevant for anyone concerned about preserving assets—for themselves or aging parents—amid growing healthcare and estate planning challenges.

PARSIPPANY — Get ready for an evening of excitement and tradition as the Sons of the American Legion Post 249 host a lively Kentucky Derby Party on Saturday, May 3, 2025. The event will occur at American Legion Post 249, 91 North Beverwyck Road in Lake Hiawatha.

Doors open at 4:00 p.m., and the evening will feature live music by Barry McArdle. This will add to the festive atmosphere as guests celebrate one of America’s most iconic horse races.

Food will be provided by Sons of Italy Lodge 2561, offering delicious Italian fare for all attendees.

Tickets are $25.00 each and can be purchased at the post. The event will include door prizes and a Kentucky Derby Hat Contest, so guests are encouraged to don their best derby attire.

Join the community for a fun-filled evening of food, music, and racing spirit, all supporting local veterans and programs sponsored by the Sons of the American Legion.

Dear Editor:

I’ve read recently on Facebook these stories regarding the Parsippany Mayoral election. since these folks like to refer to councilman Justin as Fredo, do they also support mayor Barberio as the GODFATHER of Parsippany? A “B” actor in mob movies supporting a failed mayor is not really vey impressive.

Actually, quite embarrassing for both parties.

This is a political election to lead our community, not a “B” MOVIE!

  Bob Scott

PARSIPPANY — The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms invites the public to roll up their sleeves and dive into creativity during its upcoming “Maker Day” on Saturday, May 10, from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The event will occur at the historic early 20th-century home of Gustav Stickley, a central figure in the American Arts and Crafts movement.

This special afternoon will feature hands-on workshops led by three local professional artists, allowing participants to explore various crafts and creative techniques. With the purchase of a ticket, attendees will enjoy:

• Stab Bound Book Making and Letterpress Printed Covers with Artist Kath Yarkosky
• Pysanky Egg Dying with Artist Wendy Hallstrom
• Ornamental Cement Sculpture with Artist Katie Truk

In the recently restored Log House Kitchen, visitors can attend “How It Was Made” Spotlight Talks to explore the artistry and craftsmanship behind items in the museum’s collection. These talks highlight the work of early 20th-century artists and provide insights into the era’s creative processes.

Guests will also receive a Makers’ Discount at The Craftsman Shop, which opened in 2024 and offers handmade items, including jewelry, pottery, prints, and lamps.

Please note: Maker Day is not an open house event. Access to the full Log House requires a guided tour, which will be offered at 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. during the event.

Admission Pricing:

• Members: $35 (or two tickets for $60)
• Non-members: $55
• New Member Special: $100 – Includes a one-year Individual Membership ($50 value) and two tickets ($110 value)

Admission includes all materials, activities, and spotlight talks.

To learn more about Maker Day or to purchase tickets, visit www.stickleymuseum.org or follow the museum on social media.

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Animal Control and Shelter is asking the community to open their hearts to Nina, a senior dog found abandoned, emaciated, and covered in bite wounds at a local apartment complex.

When Animal Control officers discovered her, Nina was limping, starving, and emotionally devastated. “We could tell her heart was broken, even after being abandoned by her person and suffering through the poor care she received from them,” shelter officials shared. “We gave her the name Nina, even though that’s likely not her name, but she seems happy with it.”

Veterinary care revealed that Nina suffers from several age-related, degenerative conditions, including hip dysplasia, knee issues, and arthritis. Despite her challenges, she is steadily improving, thanks to consistent medical treatment, pain management, and nutritious food.

Authorities have not yet released any details about who abandoned her or how long she was left alone.

Described as a low-maintenance companion, Nina wants affection, a warm bed, food, and regular potty breaks. Shelter staff describe her as deeply affectionate and eager to be near people. While she’s wary of cats and keeps her distance, she is not aggressive toward them. However, due to her discomfort around other dogs, it’s recommended that she be the only dog in her new home.

“Nina doesn’t belong in a shelter,” officials posted. “We are looking for an adopter or rescue to brighten her sad eyes. She will be spayed before adoption.”

Those interested in giving Nina the loving home she deserves are encouraged to submit an adoption application. The shelter will review applications and promptly arrange meet-and-greets with suitable adopters.

“We know finding what Nina needs is not easy,” the shelter added, “but we are hopeful she has an angel out there.”

For more information or to apply, click here and fill out the “Animal Control Adoption Application.”

PARSIPPANY — In a heartfelt effort to give back to those who have served our country, the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills has announced a community-wide donation drive to benefit the New Jersey Veterans Medical Center. The collection will take place from April 13 through April 26, 2025, and aims to provide comfort and creativity to veterans through donations of essential toiletries and art supplies.

Residents can drop off donations at the following two locations:

• Parsippany Senior Center, 1130 Knoll Road, Parsippany
• Parsippany Main Library, 449 Halsey Road, Parsippany

The Woman’s Club asks for new, unused items in two main categories. Toiletries such as body wash, deodorant, men’s razors, shaving cream, toothpaste, toothbrushes, lotion, and shampoo are in high demand. In addition, art supplies, including paints, paintbrushes, crayons, markers, adult coloring books, colored pencils, and canvas pads, will help provide therapeutic activities and creative outlets for veterans receiving care.

This donation drive is just one of many ongoing community service efforts by the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills, whose mission is to improve the lives of others through volunteer service.

MORRIS COUNTY — Homeless Solutions recently celebrated its 25th Annual Dream Builders’ Bash on Friday, March 28th.

The Bash is the non-profit’s most significant yearly fundraiser. It supports the shelter programs and services it offers to help people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless in Morris County regain their independence.

This year’s event, “Dream Big, Build Bigger,” celebrated the power of community and honorees who’ve shown extraordinary dedication to HSI. The evening was filled with beautiful tributes and touching stories and was also an introduction of Homeless Solutions’ new CEO Jaclyn Stoll to the steadfast supporters in attendance.

The evening’s honorees included Bob and Nancy Boye of The Boye Foundation, who were given our Dream Builder Award for their decades of philanthropic support to HSI. The Knights of Columbus #359 George Washington Council were awarded the Mary E. Van Kirk Volunteer Spirit Award for their years of dedicated volunteerism to the organization.

An inspirational part of the night came from our guest speaker, PG, a graduate of our Transitional Housing Program who told her story as a single working mother who lost her home to rising Morris County rents. This narrative is becoming all too familiar as we see the waitlist for affordable housing increase exponentially in our community.

She praised HSI’s staff for supporting her, including helping her access much-needed resources that she initially didn’t even know were available. Our THP graduate should also be commended for the intense effort she put forth to secure stability for her family. She took advantage of every opportunity, workshop, and program that she could to help her in her journey back to independence. As she said, “The HSI programs work if you do your part and never give up.”

The Bash guests enjoyed cocktails, dinner, dancing, raffles, silent and live auctions at The Westin Governor Morris in Morristown. HSI CEO Jaclyn Stoll had the pleasure of being joined by local dignitaries such as Senator Anthony Bucco, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Morris County Commissioner Christine Meyers, present and past HSI Board of Trustees, and 275 attendees who all came to support HSI’s critical mission of empowering those who are homeless or at risk to attain housing stability. Celebrating 25 years of support for the Dream Builders’ Bash was a beautiful evening, with over $5.3 million raised since its inception in 2000.

Homeless Solutions philosophy is “A Hand Up, not a Handout.” Homeless Solutions has been helping the homeless and at-risk in our community as a private, nonprofit organization since 1983. We are unique in what we do. It’s not just about providing a healthy meal and a place to sleep. They aim to give those we serve the tools and surroundings they need to rebuild their lives and become self-sufficient. What sets our nonprofit apart from others is our continuum of housing options, including our main shelter, Transitional Housing Program (THP) for families, Warming Center for street homeless in the winter, Mt. Kemble Home for senior women, Women’s Campus for single women in shared housing, and the Affordable Rental Housing units we own and operate – in all 136 units of affordable homes for Morris County residents.

For more information on how you can support Homeless Solutions, click here.

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is pleased to announce that Hear Here, LLC will manage the 2025 Parsippany Farmers Market, bringing a fresh approach to this long-standing community favorite.

The market will be held every Friday from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., beginning June 7 and running through September 12, at Veteran Memorial Park on Route 46 East.

Residents and visitors can expect a diverse mix of vendors offering fresh produce, artisan goods, specialty products, and more. The market provides a valuable opportunity to support local businesses while fostering a sense of community and connection.

Hear Here, LLC brings experience in event management and community engagement and is committed to enhancing the overall market experience for vendors and customers.

Vendor applications are currently open. Interested parties are encouraged to email [email protected] or apply directly online at www.hearhereevents.com.

For updates and information throughout the season, follow the Parsippany Farmers Market on social media or visit the above website.

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Senior Center will host a critical Medicare Overview seminar on Wednesday, April 23, at 10:00 a.m., offering valuable information for those navigating Medicare coverage options.

Presented by Morris County SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program), the seminar will provide a comprehensive look at Medicare Parts A & B, Medigap policies, Prescription Drug Plans, and Medicare Advantage Plans. Attendees will also learn about the NJ SAVE program, designed to help individuals lower costs related to Medicare premiums, drug plans, and general living expenses.

The event will be held at Parsippany Senior Center, 1130 Knoll Road.

Registration is required. Participants should contact the Office on Aging at (973) 263-7351 to reserve a spot.

Volunteer counselors and speakers will be available to offer guidance, though they do not provide legal advice or endorse specific insurance products. The program is designed to help individuals make informed decisions regarding their healthcare coverage.

This initiative is made possible through the efforts of NORWESCAP, AmeriCorps Seniors, and the New Jersey Department of Human Services, with support from the U.S. Administration for Community Living.

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Police Department invites the community to come together for coffee and conversation during their upcoming “Coffee With a Cop” event. The event will occur on Tuesday, April 22, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Unity Bank, 66 North Beverwyck Road in Lake Hiawatha.

“Coffee With a Cop” offers residents a unique opportunity to meet and connect with the officers who serve their neighborhoods. There’s no agenda or speeches—just a chance to ask questions, voice concerns, or say hello in a relaxed, informal setting.

The event aims to foster open communication between law enforcement and the public, strengthening community partnerships and enhancing public safety.

Free coffee will be provided for all attendees. Everyone is welcome to stop by and join in the conversation.

For more information, contact the Parsippany Police Department’s Community Relations Unit.