Saturday, August 17, 2024
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Board of Education Election Results

PARSIPPANY — Unofficial results for Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education. Winners are Alison Cogan, Kendra Von Achen and Andrew Choffo. All three seats are for a three year term.

1. Alison Cogan 5,038 28.16%
2. Kendra Von Achen 4,404 24.61%
3. Andrew Choffo 4,407 24.63%
4. Robert Quinn 3,991 22.30%

 

 

 

Updated: Parsippany GOP Candidates won Council Race

PARSIPPANY — Unconfirmed reports indicate that all three incumbents won re-election to Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council. Paul Carifi, Jr., Michael dePierro and Loretta Gragnani was re-elected to another four year term.

Michael dePierro 5,088 17.59% Republican
Loretta Gragnani 4,974 17.20% Republican
Paul Carifi, Jr. 4,921 17.01% Republican
Judy Hernandez 4,706 16.27% Democrat
Robert Kaminski 4,622 15.98% Democrat
Cori Herbig 4,600 15.90%  Democrat

Polls are open 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

PARSIPPANY — The following locations are polling places within the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.  Polls are open Tuesday, November 5, from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Polling Places in Parsippany-Troy Hills
Ward District Location
00 01 Adath Shalom
841 Mountain Way
Morris Plains
Lobby
GPS: 40.823040, -74.482365
00 02 Fire House – Powder Mill
60 South Powder Mill Road
Squad Room
GPS: 40.857957, -74.490975
00 03 Intervale School
60 Pitt Road
Gym
GPS: 40.8816981, -74.4225234
00 04 Adath Shalom
841 Mountain Way
Morris Plains
Lobby
GPS: 40.823040, -74.482365
00 05 Mt. Tabor Firehouse – Simpson
30 Simpson Avenue, Mt. Tabor
Engine Room
GPS: 40.871525, -74.421959
00 06 Littleton School
51 Brooklawn Drive, Morris Plains
Gym
GPS: 40.8551618, -74.4520948
00 07 Littleton School
51 Brooklawn Drive, Morris Plains
Gym
GPS: 40.8551618, -74.4520948
00 08 Intervale School
60 Pitt Road
Gym
GPS: 40.8816981, -74.4225234
00 09 Littleton School
51 Brooklawn Drive, Morris Plains
Gym
GPS: 40.8551618, -74.4520948
00 10 Lake Parsippany Fire House
255 Halsey Rd-Rear Entrance
Meeting Room
GPS: 40.852891, -74.445408
00 11 Brooklawn School
250 Beachwood Road
Girls Aux Gym Room
GPS: 40.8586795, -74.4496543
00 12 Lake Parsippany Fire House
255 Halsey Rd-Rear Entrance
Meeting Room
GPS: 40.852891, -74.445408
00 13 Brooklawn School
250 Beachwood Road
Girls Aux Gym Room
GPS: 40.8586795, -74.4496543
00 14 Eastlake School
40 Eba Road
Gym
GPS: 40.8634539, -74.4300744
00 15 Board of Education Building
292 Parsippany Road
Meeting Room
GPS: 40.856007, -74.426213
00 16 Board of Education Building
292 Parsippany Road
Meeting Room
GPS: 40.856007, -74.426213
00 17 Eastlake School
40 Eba Road
Gym
GPS: 40.8634539, -74.4300744
00 18 Intervale School
60 Pitt Road
Gym
GPS: 40.8816981, -74.4225234
00 19 Board of Education Building
292 Parsippany Road
Meeting Room
GPS: 40.856007, -74.426213
00 20 St. Ann’s Church
781 Smith Road
Hospitality Room
GPS: 40.8478867, -74.4070399
00 21 Northvail School
10 Eileen Court
Gym
GPS: 40.8716925, -74.3985828
00 22 Central Middle School
1620 Route 46 West
Old Gym
GPS: 40.8644141, -74.4021748
00 23 Central Middle School
1620 Route 46 West
Old Gym
GPS: 40.8644141, -74.4021748
00 24 Troy Hills School
509 S. Beverwyck Road
Gym
GPS: 40.851136, -74.3936021
00 25 Rockaway Meadow School
160 Edwards Road
Gym
GPS: 40.86682, -74.369877
00 26 Rockaway Neck Fire House
180 Old Bloomfield Avenue
Meeting Room
GPS: 40.860174, -74.353704
00 27 Troy Hills School
509 S. Beverwyck Road
Gym
GPS: 40.851136, -74.3936021
00 28 Northvail School
10 Eileen Court
Gym
GPS: 40.8716925, -74.3985828
00 29 Knollwood School
445 Knoll Drive, Lake Hiawatha
Gym
GPS: 40.887046, -74.3958604
00 30 Lake Hiawatha School
1 Lincoln Avenue, Lake Hiawatha
Gym
GPS: 40.8761403, -74.3859649
00 31 Lake Hiawatha School
1 Lincoln Avenue, Lake Hiawatha
Gym
GPS: 40.8761403, -74.3859649
00 32 Community Center
1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha
Meeting Room B
GPS: 40.8791694, -74.3947915
00 33 Lake Hiawatha Library
68 Nokomis Avenue, Lake Hiawatha
Lower Level Meeting Room
GPS: 40.881804, -74.381025
00 34 Lake Hiawatha Library
68 Nokomis Avenue, Lake Hiawatha
Lower Level Meeting Room
GPS: 40.881804, -74.381025
00 35 Rockaway Meadow School
160 Edwards Road
Gym
GPS: 40.86682, -74.369877
00 36 Rockaway Meadow School
160 Edwards Road
Gym
GPS: 40.86682, -74.369877
00 37 Littleton School
51 Brooklawn Drive, Morris Plains
Gym
GPS: 40.8551618, -74.4520948
00 38 Lake Hiawatha School
1 Lincoln Avenue, Lake Hiawatha
Gym
GPS: 40.8761403, -74.3859649
00 39 Adath Shalom
841 Mountain Way
Morris Plains
Lobby
GPS: 40.823040, -74.482365

The Greystone Invitational Top 20 Medal Winners for the Parsippany Express Cross Country team

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PARSIPPANY — Back Row Left to Right:                               Pace Per Mile   Final Time

Rocio Bilbao La Vieja Finished 14th with a time of 19:37.54 in the Girls 13/14 3970 Meter Run. Anina Mullan finished 17th in the Girls 9/10 2270 Meter run with a time of   10:23.74. Eesha Vavilala finished 13th also in the Girls 9/10 2270 Meter run with a time of 10:20.29.

Front Row Left to Right: Alexis McGee finished 12th in the Girls 6-8 1561 Meter run with a time of 7:36.63. Twin sister Kaitlyn McGee finished 17th  with a time of 7:45.29. Catherine Azares finished 7th in the Girls 6-8 as well with a time of 7:30.60. The Girls 6-8 team of Catherine, Alexis and Kaitlyn plus Emily Thormann and Gloria Harmon took first for the third consecutive week!

Also finishing with top twenty medals but not in the picture is Mason Kosovich who finished 20th in the boys 11/12 2977 Meter Run with a time of 13:32.60 and Olive Rhodes finished 14th  in the Girls 11/12 2977 Meter run with a time of 13:43.16.

Letter to the Editor: Cricket Field?

parsippany focusDear Editor:

I have been fortunate to live in Parsippany for over 30 years. As we all know, Parsippany has a large, taxpaying, South Asian population that has added to the cultural diversity of our township. For many years our township’s South Asian community members have been advocating for a cricket field. In fact, I remember the first push for a cricket field in the early 2000s when I used play cricket with my kids and their friends on a sidewalk in my old apartment complex.

I was encouraged to hear that Mayor Soriano and the town council voted for the creation of a cricket field. However, I was disheartened when I heard that the Republican-led council cut funding for the field’s maintenance. This would eventually leave the field in disrepair and with conditions unsafe for play.I believe that electing new voices to the town council will allow this cricket field to be built and maintained.  That is why on November 5th, I will be voting for Cori Herbig, Rob Kaminski & Judy Hernandez for Parsippany Town Council.

Mayank Parikh
Lake Parsippany

Letter to the Editor: Cleaning up Parsippany

parsippany focusDear Editor:

When Mayor Soriano ran in 2017, the theme of his campaign was “Cleaning up Parsippany.” This has been a continuing theme of his first term as mayor. Following this summer’s Town Council Ordinance banning single use plastic bags, he can check off another box on this theme thanks to the hard work of elected officials and residents of Parsippany.

But let’s first give credit where credit is due. Councilwoman Janice McCarthy, Environmental Committee Vice Chair and candidate for Council Judy Hernandez, Environmental Action Committee Chair Lisa Plevin, and others acted as the driving forces behind this ordinance. Their hard work was met with overwhelming support from Parsippany residents following more than a year of educating the public around town about the environmental and economic benefits of the ordinance.

We all remember the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle mantra started in the 1980’s and most of use have done a wonderful job of implanting this behavior into our homes. However, the complicated network used to properly transform our plastics into other usable products has started to become more costly and we need to revisit the neglected, yet most important part of the pyramid, Reduce. This plastic bag ban goes straight towards reducing our plastics usages and will save out town money in the disposal of these bags, not to mention the damages incurred from stray bags to our sewage infrastructure. This action will save our town considerable expense for years to come and helps us fulfill our obligation to protect the planet. Who says environmental policies can’t be win:win.

Although this new law may take some time for all of us to get used to, it goes without saying that Democratic leadership in town has proven that they want to work with residents with their future, and our town’s future, in mind. Without the efforts of the Democrats in power, this ordinance would not have even been brought to the table. Too often we have seen our entrenched leaders be content to deflect attention away from impactful issues and neglect our town’s resources by depriving the of necessary maintenance and investment. This is a refreshing change.

Democrats care about the issues at affect us all. They don’t neglect the town’s resources, or the responsibilities of their office and they don’t deflect attention away from difficult issues to protect their bid for re-election. Democrats get things done. If you want to continue to see our town progress further into the 21st century, please vote for the entire Democratic ticket in Parsippany.

John Von Achen

Halloween at the Hills was “scary and fun”

PARSIPPANY — Halloween reared its creepy head Wednesday night at the annual Halloween at the Hills event. This safe and controlled holiday effort is intended to be a safe trick-or-treat event for local elementary school kids.

The Kiwanis Key Club, Project Graduation, Asian American Club, Peer Buddies, Student Council were among some of the clubs participating in “Halloween at the Hills”.

The children dressed in costumes had fun playing games to win candy.  By the end of the evening all the children’s bags were full to the top.

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Nicole Berkman with her son Ben
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Guess who?
No clowning around.

Parsippany-Troy Hills holds Wellness Fair for it’s employees

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills and it’s Wellness Coach, Liz Morella, RYT, from Wellness Coaches, held a Wellness Fair on Wednesday, October 30. Employees attended the all-day event, at a time convenient to their working schedule, held at Parsippany PAL, 33 Baldwin Road, to learn what services are available from area companies.

Kim Polachek, Rebecca and Dante Leon from Care One
Kelli Olsen, Knoll Country Club
Jerson Santos and Santiago Molina, Blink Fitness, Parsippany
Dr. Swetha Kandula, Dermatology & Skincare Arts, Parsippany

 

Rama Jonnalagadda, Jai Ganesh Yoga Studio
Alicia Bozza, Alicia Helps,Parsippany
Jeanmarie Embler and Connie Bermudez, Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library
Anthony Shovlowsky, Rosemary Linder Day and Joann Fierro, Lakeland Hills YMCA
Marina Sky, HEAL Wellness Center and Spa, Boonton
Eric Graziano, Whole Foods Market and Sam Bartley, AeroFarms and Dream Greens
Sara Leach, Trinity Rehab, Parsippany

Wellness Coaches was formed in 2002 to provide workplace wellness solutions that consistently deliver large-scale engagement and company-wide health, nutrition, and injury related risk factor improvements. They have evolved to be the largest and most experienced onsite coaching provider in the workplace, including the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.  The outcomes clearly demonstrate that onsite coaching is the most effective way to help employees live their healthiest and safest lives possible.

They are committed to providing that needed help and support by engaging 80-90% of your employees in our onsite and technology supported coaching efforts to improve employee health, safety, and well-being. We believe people want to be healthy and injury free, but we understand it’s not easy to accomplish this on their own. Most will need one-on-one, professional support along the way.

Morris County Surrogate John Pecoraro Endorses Heather Darling as Successor

MORRIS COUNTY — In a letter received from Morris County Surrogate John Pecoraro it states:

Murphy Directs Flags to Fly at Half-Staff in Honor of U.S. Representative Bill Hughes

TRENTON — Governor Phil Murphy ordered that the U.S. and New Jersey flags be flown at half-staff at all state buildings and facilities on Monday, November 4, in recognition of the passing of U.S. Representative Bill Hughes. Hughes a Democratic congressman in a heavily Republican part of New Jersey and later served as U.S. Ambassador to Panama under President Bill Clinton, died at his home on Wednesday.  He was 87.

“Congressman Bill Hughes represented his South Jersey district for 20 years, but he was nothing less than a New Jersey icon,”said Governor Murphy. “He was a public school product and a Rutgers graduate two times over. As a prosecutor in Cape May, he fought to keep residents safe. As a respected Congressman, he fought to protect the Jersey Shore from polluters and the Pinelands from development. As U.S. Ambassador to Panama under President Clinton, he served our nation on the world stage.

“Tammy and I send our condolences to his children and their families, and to all who knew him and called him a friend. Congressman Hughes will continue to inspire future leaders through the work of the William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy at Stockton University, perhaps the most fitting tribute to his tremendous legacy.”

Click here to view Executive Order 90.

Ann Grossi presented Governor Kean with “Lifetime Achievement Award”

PARSIPPANY — Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi presented Thomas H. Kean, Sr., with an “Lifetime Achievement Award” at the Parsippany Sheraton Hotel on Sunday, November 3, during her Annual Pre-Election Breakfast.

Thomas Howard Kean Sr., 84, an American businessman, academic administrator and politician who served as the 48th Governor of New Jersey from 1982 to 1990. Kean is best known globally, however, for his 2002 appointment as Chairman of the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States, widely known as the 9/11 Commission, which was responsible for investigating the causes of the September 11, 2001 attacks and providing recommendations to prevent future terrorist attacks. He was appointed to this post by U.S. President George W. Bush.

Upon the completion of his second term as Governor, he served as the President of Drew University for fifteen years, until his retirement in 2005.

Freeholder Heather Darling, Governor Thomas H. Kean and Ray Tahan
Parsippany resident Patrick Minutillo and Governor Thomas Kean
Parisppany-Troy Hills Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Michael dePierro, Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi with Governor Thomas Kean
Morris County Freeholder Director Doug Cabana, Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi, Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Senator Anthony Bucco and Freeholder Tom Mastrangelo
Parsippany Focus Publisher Frank Cahill with Governor Thomas Kean
Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce and Governor Thomas Kean
Governor Thomas Kean and Freeholder Heather Darling
Governor Thomas Kean and Senator Anthony Bucco
Governor Thomas Kean and Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi

Kiwanis members cook at Homeless Solutions

PARSIPPANY —Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany cooked a homemade dinner at Homeless Solutions.

The Kiwanis Club has been providing meals to Homeless Solutions for the past 18 years and have served over 7,000 meals. Members volunteer their time to shop, cook and serve the dinner.

Members Bob Keller, Greg Elbin, Susan Elbin and Connie Keller recently cooked and served dinner for the clients of Homeless Solutions.

The group of volunteers meet at Homeless Solutions to start preparing dinner for the guests in the transitional housing program. The crew cut the fruits, tossed salad, baked ziti with meatballs and rolls and served vanilla cheesecake for dessert. They also served iced tea and coffee.

Other volunteer groups such as St. Ann’s Church, Kiwanis Club of Morristown, prepares dinner for the shelter on other days of the month. Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany has been providing meals to Homeless Solutions for the past eleven years.

Interested in learning more about the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, contact President Frank Cahill, by emailing flcahill@parsippanykiwanis.org.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets every Thursday at 7:15 a.m. at Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46. Join us for breakfast to learn more about our group of volunteers. Currently Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is the largest club in New Jersey.

The mission of Homeless Solutions is to offer shelter, services, and supportive housing to homeless and low-income people. For the homeless and working poor in our community, hope begins at Homeless Solutions, Inc. Homeless Solutions is a private, non-profit organization, helping those in need for past 30 years. In 2012, they served 267 people by providing emergency shelter and transitional housing. Their case managers offer the support needed to help the guests rebuild their lives and successfully return to independent living. They also develop permanent supportive housing that is energy efficient for very low, low, and moderate income families and individuals. They provided homes people can afford to 119 people in 2012. By supporting HSI through financial donations or volunteering, they are making a tangible difference in the lives of those most in need in our community. For more information on Homeless Solutions, click here.

Three Reason to Donate to Homeless Solutions:

When you donate to Homeless Solutions, you make a tangible difference in the life of someone in need in our community. Your donations –

Buy milk for children living in shelter.
Pay for childcare so a single parent can work.
Pay for gas for our shelter vans that take guests to public transportation to get to work and to medical appointments.

Click here to make a donation to Homeless Solutions.

Sons of Italy 5th Annual Beefsteak Dinner was a sold-out success

PARSIPPANY — Sons of Italy held another successful sold out Beefsteak Dinner on Saturday, November 2. The event included all you can eat beefsteak, salad, pasta, beer, wine, soda, coffee, tea and dessert.

Joining the Local Sons of Italy were Sons of Italy New Jersey State Officers who traveled a long way: Diane Santoro, 1st State V.P., Lou Santoro, N.J. Past State President, Steve Camiscioli, 2nd State V.P. and Ralph Cappaccio, Immediate Past State President.

Uncle Floyd

Entertaining the over 200 guests was Uncle Floyd. Floyd Vivino (born October 19, 1951), also known as Uncle Floyd, is an American television, film, and stage performer primarily known for his comedy/variety TV show The Uncle Floyd Show (1974–1998).

All proceeds for the event will go towards support of local charities and families in need.

The intense crowd watching Uncle Floyd

The Morris County of the Order of Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 is an affiliated member of the Order of the Sons of Italy In America Association, the largest and longest established Italian-American organization in the United States.

Amber Reilly with Nicolas Jannarone
June Madia and Pat Rocco
Susan and Joe Plescia
Isabella and Charlie Alfano

Our Morris County Lodge was founded as a non-profit organization, which contributes thousands of dollars to worthwhile local charities and families.  Our lodge is proud to be able to serve a small portion of needs to our local communities.

Donations include, but are not limited to, The Parsippany Food Pantry, High School Scholarships, Gift cards to families in need, The Valerie Fund, Alzheimer’s, and many more.

Members of the Morris County Sons of Italy lodge meet once a month at a local restaurant, typically on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Meetings commence at 6:30 p.m. with members discussing monthly lodge business, fundraising, and community charity events and needs in the Morris county area.

For more information on how to join,  email Lou Amato, President at  MorrisSOI2561@gmail.com.

Kiwanis Club invades the Beefsteak: Laura Wohland, Karen DeChristopher, Joe Janarone, Nick Limanov, Julie Carifi and Frank Cahill

Employment Horizons joins Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce

PARSIPPANY — Employment Horizons recently joined Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Through our business services like staffing, fulfillment (packaging/assembly/mailing) and commercial cleaning, Employment Horizons is the link for work opportunities for people with disabilities and commercial business or municipalities. Our staffing services help companies on board uniquely-talented and diverse applicants, while our fulfillment division helps companies large and small, with their outsourced packaging, kit making, mailing or assembly needs. The commercial cleaning side of our business is the first choice for the County of Morris, our commercial partners and local municipalities.

If you need the help the services we provide, why not contract with Employment Horizons and help create meaningful employment for a person with a disability in your own community?

Employment Horizons is located at 10 Ridgedale Avenue, Cedar Knolls. For more information click here.

Meet The 2019 Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Candidates

PARSIPPANY — All candidate running for the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council were asked a series of questions.  Answers are published in the order received by Parsippany Focus.

Paul Carifi, Jr., Michael dePierro and Loretta Gragnani terms expire December 31, 2019. All three candidates are seeking re-election.

Candidate Link to answers Ballot Position Party Affiliation
Michael dePierro Click here Row 1, Line 8 Republican
Paul Carifi, Jr. Click here Row 1, Line 9 Republican
Loretta Gragnani Click Here Row 1, Line 10 Republican

Cori A. Herbig Click Here Row 2, Line 8 Democrat
Robert Kaminski Click Here Row 2, Line 9 Democrat
Judy Hernandez Click Here Row 2, Line 10 Democrat

 

Robert Kaminski

1. What is your educational and volunteer background?
I graduated from Parsippany Hills High School and County College of Morris with a degree in Business Administration. For my entire life I have volunteered for Parsippany recreation. I have coached youth football and basketball, and volunteered at the PAL concession stand. I have also done volunteer electrical work at the PAL building. Additionally, I have built homes for Habitat for Humanity and officiated basketball games for Layups4Life which raises money for cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

2. Why did you choose to run for council?
I chose to run for council because I have served my community my entire life and I want to continue to serve at a higher level.

3. What do you feel is the biggest issue facing Parsippany today?
The single biggest issue that I see facing Parsippany today is that the council is ignoring their promises. Instead they play politics. A great example of this is the cricket field that was promised and budgeted for has not been built. Instead, the budget  to maintain it was cut.

4. Why did you decide to run now?
I decided to run now because I think it is time for Democratic leadership on the council. I believe that my running mates and I would be a positive addition to the council. It is time that the three of us bring modern ideas and real solutions to Parsippany’s problems. Cori, Judy and I are focused on Parsippany, not politics.

5. What specific skills will you bring to the table if elected?
As a union electrician and volunteer coach, I strongly value teamwork. That is not limited to just my colleagues on the council if I am elected. It also includes the residents of Parsippany. We need to consider everyone’s interests regardless of party affiliation to get smart things accomplished in Parsippany.

6. What new programs or initiatives would you like to start if elected?
I want to build a cricket field in Parsippany. With my background in recreation, I want to use this cricket field to build a stronger foundation between Town Hall and the Indian community in Parsippany than the one that already exists.

7. What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about my family and my community. They are two of the things that I love most. I have dedicated my life to serving both.

8. What is the best thing about Parsippany?
The best thing about Parsippany is its charm and diversity. We are one of the greatest towns in New Jersey and our schools are among the best in the state.

9. What are your hobbies/interests?
My hobbies center around spending time outdoors, specifically fishing in Lake Parsippany, boating on Lake Hopatcong and golfing at the Knoll Country Club. During the winter I referee youth and high school basketball.

10. What is your professional background?
I have been an electrician for 35 years and am proud to have been a member of organized labor for much of that time as well. Currently I sit on the Executive Board of IBEW Local 102, which is based in the heart of Parsippany. I plan on retiring in June 2020 which will enable me to focus my time on community service.

To return to original story, click here.

Cori A. Herbig

1. What is your educational and volunteer background?
I have a law degree and certificate in Environmental Law from Pace Law School and was the Managing Editor of the Pace Law Review. I graduated with high honors from Rutgers University with a degree in Philosophy and certificate in Criminology.

2. Why did you choose to run for council?
I chose to run for council because as a gun safety advocate, I am tired of seeing our leaders at all levels of government play political games when it comes to the important issues. I have worked tirelessly to ensure that our communities are safe from gun violence and that our children are safe in their schools. I want to be part of that solution, and I want to leave a lasting legacy by working with local law enforcement, school administrators, mental health experts, and the Board of Education to make sure that proper steps are taken to keep Parsippany’s schools safe.

3. What do you feel the biggest issue facing Parsippany today?
The biggest issue I see facing Parsippany today is that the current council members aren’t thinking about or listening to the people who live here. They aren’t asking the people who live here what they think about important issues like balancing development with the protection of natural resources, taxes, and school safety. And, they certainly aren’t listening to the community.

4. Why did you decide to run now?
I’ve watched from afar since moving to Parsippany in 2013 as our town council members fail to act in the best interest of Parsippany families time and time again. I’ve watched them squander taxpayer dollars on vendetta-driven lawsuits, work to divide our community instead of bringing us together, and throw blame at others instead of doing what they can and should do to move Parsippany forward. It’s time for new ideas and perspectives that will help bring Parsippany into the future in a way that unites us. I am committed to doing that.

5. What specific skills will you bring to the table if elected?
As a career legislative strategist, I know what it takes to build consensus and get things done. I understand every facet of governing, from drafting new laws to moving them through the legislative process, and I know how to build buy in in a way that leaves everyone feeling like they’ve accomplished something meaningful together.  As an advocate, I know how important it is for lawmakers to be transparent with and accountable to the people they were elected to serve.  It is time for the council to show all residents, regardless of age, gender, party affiliation, religion, or way of life, that they have an equal voice here in Parsippany.

6. What new programs or initiatives would you like to start if elected?
There are so many possibilities for programs to start if elected, that it’s hard to focus in on just one.  I think the one I’m most excited about is a program I’d like to introduce to engage our young people. So many kids don’t understand what civic engagement is, and even those that do aren’t always sure how to go about getting involved. I’d like to start a program that invites students from Parsippany’s schools to come before the council and propose an ordinance that they’d like to see the town adopt. I’m certain that we will get a ton of creative and inspiring ideas, in addition to helping to bring along the next generation of civic leaders in our town.

7. What are you passionate about?
I’m passionate about so many things – gun violence prevention, social justice, animal welfare… The list goes on. At its core though, most of my passions stem from a foundational belief in the value and importance of kindness and empathy. Too often we get caught up in the day to day and lose sight of each other’s humanity. If we keep our focus on people as individuals, and what our decisions mean to their daily lives, the rest falls into place much more easily. This is true at every level of engagement, from daily interactions with people in public places like stores and restaurants to the most heated interactions about controversial political topics. If we take a step back and see the humanity in each other, it’s much easier to see what we all have in common, rather than our differences.

8. What is the best thing about Parsippany?
The best thing about Parsippany without a doubt is the diversity and warm nature of its residents. I have met thousands of people from all walks of life around town, and I have been blown away by how kind everyone has been. If there’s one thing that knocking on so many doors has taught me, it’s that people in our town care! If you ask them what’s working and not working for them right now, they’ll tell you.

9. What are your hobbies/interests?
To be honest, I don’t have a lot of time for hobbies. I work full time, I’m running for office, and I have two young kids at home. Most of my “free” time is spent with my family at the kids’ activities. In the rare moments that I do have some personal time, I enjoy reading and catching up with childhood friends who I don’t see nearly often enough.

10. What is your professional background?
I currently work as the Director of State Government Affairs at Everytown for Gun Safety where I work every day to pass lifesaving gun violence prevention policies throughout the country. Before that, I worked at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) for 13 years, where I advocated for animal welfare. Immediately after graduating law school, I worked for a year as a Legal Services housing attorney, fighting to keep low income families from being unlawfully evicted from their homes.

To return to original story, click here.

Paul Carifi, Jr.

1.  What is your educational and volunteer background?
BA in Sociology with a concentration in criminal justice from East Stroudsburg University.
Graduate of the West Point Leadership and Command Program.
Volunteered for Midget Football Program as well as Little Baseball. I volunteered at the PAL and for the Parsippany Citizens Police Academy.

2.  Why did you choose to run for council?
I chose to run for council to give back to my community. I have lived in Parsippany for over 45 years. I want to protect the quality of life for all of our residence.

3.  What do you feel the biggest issue facing Parsippany today?
The biggest issues facing Parsippany today is the constant threat of massive tax increases and our town becoming a sanctuary city which as long as I am on the town council I will be against 1000 % and will do everything I can to prevent from happening.

4.  Why did you decide to run now?
I am running for re-election. I want to Continue to work as hard as I can for all of the residence in our town.

5.  What specific skills will you bring to the table if re-elected?
I have always done my due diligence in representing the people of our town. I meet with them on a regular basis and listen to all of their concerns.

6.  What new programs or initiatives would you like to start if re-elected?
Work in conjunction with Sheriff Gannon with educating people facing opioid addiction.

7.  What are you passionate about?
My boys and family.

8.  What is the best thing about Parsippany?
It’s diversity and everything it has to offer.

9.  What are your hobbies/interests?
Spending time with my boys, sports and working out.

10. What is your professional background?
25+ Years with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office as the Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team Commander (SERT), Head Physical Training Instructor and Range Master at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy.

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Halloween at the High was a smash

PARSIPPANY — The Hallways were packed with “Trick or Treaters” during Parsippany High School’s “Halloween at the High” on Monday, October 28.

The Shaughnessy Family: Owen,3; Shannon 2; John 5 and Lillian, 2.

This annual event was sponsored by Kiwanis Key Club, Red Cross Club and National Art Honor Society.

Students were dressed for Halloween and supervised the games, face painting, or just handed out candy to the children.

Key Club is the oldest and largest service program for high school students. It is a student-led organization that teaches leadership through service to others. Members of the Kiwanis International family, Key Club members build themselves as they build their schools and communities.

The PHS Key Club hosts Halloween at the High for local children, reads to Parsippany elementary school students in the SKIP program, assists at a local daycare center, and much more. This year the PHS Key Club is fundraising to support the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. Key Club meets on every other Tuesday in Cafe 2.

Key Club Advisors are Chelsey Grosso and Lindsay Hulin.

This year the officers of Key Club are President: Nick Lim; Vice President: Neil Khare Historian: Olivia Johnson; Secretaries: Sanjana Sure and Anjali Shah and Webmaster: Sahaj Patel.

The Parsippany High School Key Club is sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

The hallways were packed with children of all ages enjoying the games, and collecting candy from the students who decorated their classrooms and hallways.
Zombie Apocalypse was the major attraction at Halloween at the High
The Shaughnessy Family: Owen,3; Shannon 2; John 5 and Lillian, 2.
Ildiko, Robert and Little Robert Peluso
Fraidoon Pourooshasb and Derek Kaiser
Aarav Patel and Rebecca Lam
Jullian Goveas, Prathi Patel and Arshi Patel
Thanvi Nimmala, Nimeesha Hua and Sara Majid
Maurice Tobias, Angelina Chen, Hannah Vutuan and Isha Swarny
Members of Scare Theatre. This was the PG-13 version of the Haunted House
Shaf Bhat, Assistant General Manager and Joanne Verog, Buffalo Wild Wings

The Red Cross club welcomes any students looking for volunteer or community service opportunities. The club is a branch of a nationwide Red Cross association, fundraising for various causes throughout the year. The club also spreads awareness of health issues that can affect the student population. Class advisor is Diana Wong. Club officers consist of President: Anjali Ramesh; Vice President: Juliana Smith; Secretary: Neriah Nugara; Treasurer: Shiv Patel; Co-publicists: Eileen Zhang and Shreya Desai and Redhawk Representative: Mira Chothani.

National Art Honor Society prides themselves on being a part of the National Art Honors Society. The club goal is to come together and decipher ways in which we can represent art through out PHS. Every club member must submit pieces of their art to be reviewed in order to be accepted in the club. They will be taking part in various activities such as halloween at the high, and art appreciation week. Their main project goal is to create a mural in an approved area of the school. Class advisor is Laura Rizzo.

Recess Bar celebrates 1st Anniversary

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso and Executive Board Member Frank Cahill joined with Recess Bar Owner/CEO Jason Andrews cutting the ribbon to celebrate its one year anniversary.

Recess Bar is the perfect place to meet with friends or to meet new friends. Recess is designed with you in mind. Featuring a full bar, regulation 9′ billiard tables, shuffleboard, board games, and all the excitement of both new and classic console gaming. With hourly rates and monthly memberships available they’ve got pricing to fit everyone’s budget.

Recess Bar is located on 247 Route 46 East. Recess Bar is open Monday, Wednesday through Saturday from 4:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. and Sunday from 4:00 p.m. to 12 Midnight, and closed on Tuesday.

Click here for more information.

Frank Cahill, Vice Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee (left) presented Jason Andrews with a certificate honoring the business successes in Parsippany. Economic Development Chairman Robert Peluso and Mayor Michael Soriano join in the presentation.
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