Magician extraordinaire, John Stessel, proudly hails from the heart of New Jersey. With unwavering dedication, he has spent the last five years ascending the ladder of the entertainment industry, leaving his mark by enchanting Garden State legends such as Bon Jovi. Now, he's set to captivate audiences at the illustrious Dover Little Theatre.
MORRIS COUNTY — Prepare to be spellbound as the renowned magician, John Stessel, takes center stage at Dover Little Theatre for a one-night-only performance of his show, “The Magic.” This enchanting evening is set to dazzle on Saturday, January 20th at 8:00 p.m.
Tickets for this extraordinary event are available now at the price of $30.00.
John Stessel, a celebrity magician, has cultivated a distinctive fusion of mind-bending magic, mesmerizing cardistry, and a strong presence on social media. His impressive roster of previous spectators includes A-listers such as Neil Patrick Harris, 50 Cent, John Travolta, Jon Bon Jovi, MGK, along with esteemed corporate clients like Google and SoHo House.
Stessel’s magical prowess has graced screens on The Syfy Channel, ABC, and Bravo’s Million Dollar Listing NYC, adding a touch of enchantment to one of Ryan Serhant’s open houses. Notably, John has also crafted astounding magic tricks, some exclusive to his performances and others becoming best-sellers in the magic industry. He produced a viral magic video for TBS, seen by millions, which contributed to finding homes for a shelter full of dogs during the holiday season.
His captivating Instagram Reels series, “Life Lessons with John The Magician,” has garnered over 25 million views and earned recognition from media outlets like Buzzfeed and Yahoo.
John Stessel’s magic is a modern, refreshing, and, above all, fun experience. Even Elvis Duran from Z100, the nation’s top radio station, couldn’t contain his admiration, exclaiming on air: “John Stessel’s show is so amazing… he is such a great magician… he is so full of life… if John Stessel is ever performing near you, GO SEE HIM!”
Join the ranks of celebrities like 50 Cent, Future, Jon Bon Jovi, Madison Beer, Meek Mill, John Travolta, and countless others who have been left awestruck by John Stessel’s magical talents.
Don’t miss this chance to witness “The Magic” up close and personal. Secure your tickets now for an unforgettable evening of enchantment at Dover Little Theatre.
Dover Little Theatre is located at 69 Elliott Street, Dover.
Councilman Justin Musella, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., and Councilman Matt McGrath
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 16 has been canceled due to the inclement weather.
Mr. Isidor DiMaio was traveling westbound on Route 46, nearing Baldwin Road. As the traffic signal turned red, Mr. DiMaio came to a stop. However, a vehicle driven by Mr. Terrnce Sweeny from Mountain Lakes collided with the rear of Mr. DiMaio's vehicle
PARSIPPANY — On Monday, January 15, around 1:30 p.m., a vehicle operated by Mr. Isidoro DiMaio was traveling westbound on Route 46, nearing Baldwin Road. As the traffic signal turned red, Mr. DiMaio came to a stop. However, a vehicle driven by Mr. Terrence Sweeny from Mountain Lakes collided with the rear of Mr. DiMaio’s vehicle.
According to Mr. Sweeny’s statement to Parsippany Police Officer Pasquale Parisi, he was driving but became distracted, momentarily turning his head to the left and taking his eyes off the road, resulting in the collision with Mr. DiMaio.
Mr. DiMaio was behind the wheel of a 2022 Mercedes White Sprinter Cargo Van, while Mr. Sweeney was driving a 2016 Lexus RX2.
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, and Mr. Sweeney’s vehicle had to be towed from the scene.
No traffic citations were issued in this incident.
Mr. Isidor DiMaio was traveling westbound on Route 46, nearing Baldwin Road. As the traffic signal turned red, Mr. DiMaio came to a stop. However, a vehicle driven by Mr. Terrnce Sweeny from Mountain Lakes collided with the rear of Mr. DiMaio’s vehicleMr. DiMaio was behind the wheel of a 2022 Mercedes White Sprinter Cargo Van, while Mr. Sweeney was driving a 2016 Lexus RX2.
Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills Hosts the Highlands District Day of Service
PARSIPPANY — On January 15, 2024, which marked Martin Luther King Day, eight clubs affiliated with the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC) came together for a noble cause. They actively participated in the 2024 NJSFWC Day of Service held at the Parsippany PAL Building.
This year’s Day of Service was dedicated to aiding victims of domestic violence, highlighting the importance of addressing this pressing issue in society. Several prominent agencies joined hands to support this initiative, including Domestic Abuse & Sexual Assault Intervention Services (DASI) from Sussex County, Domestic Abuse & Sexual Assault Crisis Center (DASAAC) from Warren County, JBWS, and Homeless Solutions Morristown Family Shelter, all located in Morris County.
To facilitate their charitable efforts, each agency provided lists of essential items that the club members could donate. These generous contributions were brought to the Day of Service event, where forty-one dedicated members from various clubs worked diligently to sort and package over 875 items. These items were subsequently handed over to the respective agencies for distribution among their clients in need.
The event saw the presence of Diane Williams, CEO of JBWS, who expressed her gratitude to the participants for their invaluable support in assisting victims of domestic abuse. She reminded everyone of the significance of their efforts, emphasizing that each one of us may know someone in need of help in such challenging situations.
Jayne Murphy-Morris, JBWS Volunteer Coordinator, also attended the event, bringing additional personal hygiene items. These items were diligently packed by the ladies along with some of the donated items to create kits for new arrivals, who often come with nothing but the clothes on their backs.
In addition to their support for domestic violence victims, some of the ladies took the time to fill out greeting cards for the families of children suffering from cancer. These heartfelt cards will be given to the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation (ECF) for distribution to these families, spreading comfort and support.
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills, a part of both the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC), continues to play an active role in community service. These organizations are among the largest volunteer women’s service organizations in the country and the state. They provide opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. The club holds its General Meetings on the fourth Monday of each month from September through April at 7:00 p.m.
If you are interested in learning more about the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills and its community involvement, you can contact Ginny at (973) 887-0336. You can also find more information on their official website by clicking here, or reach out to them via email at womansclubofpth@gmail.com. Additionally, you can follow their activities and updates on Facebook and Instagram.
About the New Jersey State Federations of Women’s Clubs: The New Jersey State Federations of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC), a volunteer community service organization, was established in 1894 and is headquartered on the Douglass College campus in New Brunswick, NJ. The NJSFWC played a pivotal role in founding the New Jersey College for Women, now known as Douglass College (Rutgers), in 1918. In the year 2020, the organization, with a membership exceeding 5800, reported almost 16,963 community service projects involving over 320,119 volunteer hours and $2.3 million in cash and in-kind donations. The NJSFWC is an esteemed member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC), headquartered in Washington, DC, which stands as the world’s largest and oldest women’s volunteer community service organization.
For further information regarding the NJSFWC and details about joining a local club, please call (732) 249-5474 or visit their official website by clicking here.
PARSIPPANY — Miami University has bestowed the honor of Dean’s List recognition upon those students who achieved academic excellence in the Fall semester of 2023 by ranking in the top twenty percent of their respective divisions. Among these accomplished scholars is Carly Gladstone.
Miami University, a publicly acclaimed institution, is situated in Oxford, Ohio. Boasting a robust student body of nearly 19,000 individuals, Miami University uniquely blends a diverse array of robust academic programs with a dedicated faculty renowned for their passion for teaching, delivering the kind of personalized attention typically associated with smaller educational institutions.
MORRIS COUNTY — The National Weather Service has released a Winter Weather Advisory for the surrounding region, which will be in effect from 7:00 p.m. on January 15 until 4:00 p.m. on January 16. The forecast anticipates the onset of snowfall after 2:00 a.m. with a potential accumulation of 1-2 inches. Snowfall is expected to persist through Tuesday, with the possibility of new snow accumulating between 1 to 3 inches, according to the weather experts.
Please be prepared for potentially slippery road conditions, as these hazardous weather conditions could impact both the morning and evening commutes.
PARSIPPANY — Hanover Township Police Officer Brian Morrisroe apprehended two individuals, Dennis Lake, 48, Lake Hiawatha, and Adele Todd, 41, residing at the Red Carpet Inn in Cedar Knolls, on charges related to assault.
Officer Morrisroe received a call regarding a shoplifting incident in progress at Walmart on Thursday, December 21.
Upon arriving at the scene, he discovered the suspected shoplifters in the process of loading merchandise into their vehicle. He issued orders for them to cease their activities and place their hands on the vehicle. However, they refused to comply and began resisting arrest. Given the active resistance and assault on the officers, additional law enforcement personnel were called in for assistance.
After a brief altercation, both Lake and Todd were apprehended and subsequently taken to the Hanover Township Police Headquarters for processing. They were formally charged with shoplifting goods exceeding $1,800 in value, conspiracy, obstruction, harassment, and resisting arrest. Dennis Lake faced additional charges, including disorderly conduct, and received motor vehicle summonses for various violations such as expired inspection, obstructed view, cracked windshield, and operating an unsafe vehicle.
Adele Todd was also charged with aggravated assault, being under the influence, and hindering law enforcement. During her time in custody, she intentionally obstructed the toilet in the holding cell, leading to an additional charge of criminal mischief. Dennis Lake was released, pending his court date, while Adele Todd was transported to Morris County Correctional Facility, where she will await her court date.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the individual(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Grand Marshall Jack Haren (right) with his immediate predecessor Ryan Dawson
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee is thrilled to announce that Jack Haren, a distinguished resident of Morris Plains, has been chosen as the Grand Marshal for the 2024 St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Haren, a first-generation Irish American, grew up in upper Manhattan, with his roots tracing back to County Kerry and County Clare through his parents. He graduated from Fordham University in 1969 and served two years on active duty as a Signal Corps Lieutenant in the United States Army. His commitment to supporting veterans is evident through his membership in the American Legion Post 59 in Morristown. Additionally, he serves as the site coordinator for Wreaths Across America, a program that honors veterans by placing wreaths on their graves in over 2,200 cemeteries across the United States.
Jack Haren
“We’re very excited to have Jack lead us down South Street this year,” exclaimed Publicity Director Michael Leavy. “His profound passion for Irish history and culture makes him an outstanding representative of the Irish-American experience.”
For six decades, Skellig Michael, a remote Irish island once inhabited by medieval monks, has held a special place in the imagination of Grand Marshal Jack Haren.
Haren’s fascination with Skellig Michael began at the age of 16 when he first glimpsed the island’s rugged outline, located roughly seven miles off the coast of County Kerry. Once home to reclusive monks living in beehive huts, Skellig Michael has now attained the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was during an adult visit to the island that Haren had a profound experience that has remained with him throughout his life.
Skellig Michael now finds its place on Haren’s Grand Marshal Pin, a design collaboration between him and the Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee. This pin has complemented the official St. Patrick’s Day Parade Pin for over two decades, serving as a symbol to promote this beloved annual event. The formal unveiling of Haren’s pin took place on December 7 at Grasshopper Off the Green in Morristown, attracting more than 100 parade enthusiasts. The event featured captivating performances by the Coffin Ships, Heritage Irish Dance Company, and Rory O’Moore Pipes and Drums. However, the highlight of the evening was Haren’s poignant talk about the significance of Skellig Michael.
More than one hundred people attended the formal unveiling of Haren’s pin
Drawing upon his profound knowledge of Irish history and culture, Haren shared his journey as a 16-year-old to his mother’s family farm in Waterville, County Kerry. In those days, rural Ireland had yet to be connected by power lines, leading Haren to spend his days fishing and his evenings gathered around the fireplace, listening to stories.
He recounted, “On my daily bicycle ride into the village—because the only way to get there was on a bicycle—I would look out into the Atlantic Ocean. Way out in the Atlantic, I would see two jagged isles that were about six or seven miles out. I’m talking about Skellig Michael and its companion, Little Skellig. They were the focus of my Uncle Paddy, who would tell and retell stories about those two isles almost every evening as we sat around the fireplace.”
Parade Committee members Tom and Liz Hand were among the event organizers.
Uncle Paddy’s stories painted vivid pictures of the monks who inhabited the islands, their solitary existence due to the rocky terrain’s limitations, Viking raids, and the practices of the Irish Church before the influence of the Church of Rome.
This childhood experience left an indelible mark on Haren, although he wouldn’t have the chance to visit Skellig Michael until a family trip in 1995 when he was 48 years old. Haren and his brother chartered a fishing trawler captain to brave the rough seas and land them on the island, which lacked proper piers and docks.
During this visit, Haren took a photograph that would become the basis for his Grand Marshal Pin.
He vividly recalled the experience, saying, “We hiked 656 steps to the top, which is about 750 feet. That’s about 60 percent of the height of the Empire State Building. The winds up there were really howling, which is what you’d expect, and of course there were no guardrails. From that view, you could see Antiquity.”
The view included six stone beehive huts where monks had lived for centuries in search of solitude and a connection with God. For Haren, this moment on Skellig Michael was a profound fusion of his Irish heritage and his spirituality, set against the backdrop of County Kerry, his mother’s homeland.
“It has stayed with me in my forever consciousness,” he said. Now, this special moment is available to everyone through Haren’s Grand Marshal Pin.
The 2024 St. Patrick’s Day Parade of Morris County is set to kick off on South Street at noon on Saturday, March 9, at 12:00 Noon. Those interested in supporting the parade are encouraged to become Parade Patrons.
MORRIS COUNTY — In an inspiring display of unity and compassion, Mutual Morris, a community organization dedicated to making a positive impact, has announced a heartfelt call to action. They are rallying the Morris County community to support their efforts in aiding the annual Point in Time survey of homelessness. With a strong desire to bring warmth and relief to those in need, Mutual Morris is actively seeking donations and volunteers to join their cause.
Mutual Morris is requesting donations of essential items that can make a significant difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness. Warm blankets, clothing, non-perishable food, and hygiene products are among the items needed to provide comfort and support during the survey.
Items in need: •Socks •Phone chargers •Large Ziploc bags •Snacks that are easy to carry and eat •Water •Reusable water bottles •Small packages of toiletries like deodorant, moisturizer, lip balm, baby wipes, facial tissues, feminine hygiene
Additionally, Mutual Morris is extending an invitation to the community, urging all to come together on January 16 and 22 at the Morris County Library. On these dates, volunteers are encouraged to join the organization in sorting and packing the collected items into individual bags. It’s an opportunity not only to contribute to a meaningful cause but also to connect with fellow community members.
The event promises a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose, fostering a strong sense of community spirit. An event page has been set up on Facebook, where interested individuals can find more details and RSVP: Event Page Link.
Mutual Morris, through its dedicated members and supporters, aims to make a positive impact on the lives of those experiencing homelessness in Morris County. Their call to action reflects the power of community unity and the collective goodwill of individuals coming together to support a cause that transcends boundaries.
Drop off at 37 Beverly Road, Madison, or 104 Fox Hill Road, Parsippany.
PARSIPPANY — Your community needs you! By staffing a polling location, you will:
Earn $300 for working on Election Day and $21.44 per hour on in-person Early Voting days.
See our great democracy in action, firsthand, and enjoy the feeling that comes with contributing to your local community, your state, and your country.
Be a part of your democracy – become a Poll Worker! Poll Workers are trained to aid voters on Election Day, guide them through the voting process, and answer any questions voters have. They are a vital part of every election!
Residents of all ages, including college and High School students, are encouraged to apply.
Qualifications
Must be a registered voter in Morris County
Must be able to read and speak the English language
Must be able to work a full day. No half-day schedules
Training Requirements
New Poll Workers must attend training provided by the Board of Elections
All Poll Workers must attend training classes at least once every two years
When new Laws are introduced, mandatory training may be required for all
Training Classes are hands-on and approximately three and a half hours long. They are held 3 – 4 weeks before the Primary and General Elections.
Application Procedure
Complete this Poll Worker Application
You will be contacted eight weeks before the next election with the training class schedule.
PARSIPPANY — All Saints Academy is excited to announce its Annual Tricky Tray event, which will take place on Friday, February 9, at 189 Baldwin Road. Tickets are still available but selling quickly. To secure your tickets, please reach out to the school directly at (973) 334-4704.
All Saints Academy is extending an invitation to businesses in the surrounding areas to consider participating by contributing items, services, gift certificates, or by becoming a sponsor. The school serves students not only from Parsippany but also from Montville, Boonton, Denville, and beyond. In appreciation of your support, the names of donors will be acknowledged in the event program and featured on the event’s Facebook page, “All Saints Academy Annual Tricky Tray,” as space allows.
This event serves as the school’s largest fundraiser, and the funds raised play a pivotal role in providing current and future students with the necessary academic resources to excel. If you or your business would like to contribute, please contact Laura Febbi at LFebbi@gmail.com or call (973) 214-7520 for additional information.
All Saints Academy is a dynamic and diverse school community rooted in Catholic faith and tradition. The school offers a comprehensive education spanning from Preschool to Grade 8. Their mission is to foster the holistic development of each child and prepare students to evolve into self-assured, resourceful learners who embody responsibility, faith, and global citizenship. For more details or to schedule a tour, please call (973) 334-4704 or click here.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany High and Parsippany Hills seniors are encouraged to apply for multiple $1,000 scholarships open to ALL graduating seniors.
Scholarships will be awarded to students pursuing further education in a College, Trade/Technical school, or Nursing Program. Parsippany residents attending the Morris County School of Technology are eligible to apply for the Technical/Trade Scholarship. Apply through your school counselor and follow their timeline and procedures.
Scholarships have been awarded to hundreds of students over 65 years thanks to the club’s many successful fundraisers.
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC), which are the largest volunteer women’s service organizations in the country/state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. General Meetings are held on the fourth Monday of each month September through April at 7:00 p.m.
To learn more about our upcoming General Meeting and our organization’s activities, you can get in touch with Ginny at (973) 887-0336, visit our website by clicking here, reach out via email at womansclubofpth@gmail.com, or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Mayor Barberio expressed his appreciation, saying, "You have served this community for over 40 years and can count multiple generations of families as your patients. We appreciate you being a member of our community and look forward to many more years of your attentive care."
PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, January 3, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, along with Senator Joe Pennacchio, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, Frank Cahill, Chairman of Parsippany Economic Development Committee, Vice Chair Dr. Maheta, Member Scott Donnelly, Jigar Shah, former Council President Loretta Gragnani, former Council Vice President Michael dePierro and Councilmember Judy Hernandez gathered to extend a warm welcome to Dr. Sheldon Greenspan, Dr. Lizzi, Dr. Smithgall-Brown, and their staff at the new location of Greenspan Family Eyecare.
When it comes to choosing eyeglass frames, there are indeed hundreds of options available to suit various preferences, face shapes, and style preferences. Eyeglass frames come in different materials, shapes, sizes, and colors.
The new facility, situated at 1055 Parsippany Boulevard, Suite 104, represents a state-of-the-art establishment that upholds the Greenspan Family Eyecare legacy of delivering high-quality eye care services to Parsippany and its surrounding areas.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Mayor Barberio expressed his appreciation, saying, “You have served this community for over 40 years and can count multiple generations of families as your patients. We appreciate you being a member of our community and look forward to many more years of your attentive care.”
While presenting a plaque to Dr. Greenspan, Chairman Frank Cahill expressed his gratitude, stating, “We highly value your decision to maintain Greenspan Family Eye Care within Parsippany.
While presenting a plaque to Dr. Greenspan, Chairman Frank Cahill expressed his gratitude, stating, “We highly value your decision to maintain Greenspan Family Eye Care within Parsippany. With a remarkable four decades of dedicated service in our community, your commitment to fulfilling eyecare needs has remained unwavering. Your extensive range of services encompasses the treatment and management of eye diseases and disorders, comprehensive eye examinations, as well as the provision of eyeglasses and contact lenses. Notably, Dr. Greenspan holds the esteemed position of being a member of the State Board of Optometry, appointed by the Governor of New Jersey. #PRIDEINPARSIPPANY. We sincerely thank you for your continued presence in our community!”
Frank Cahill expresses gratitude to Dr. Greenspan for his ongoing service to the Parsippany community.Greenspan Eye Care boasts state-of-the-art equipment, a crucial component in delivering top-notch eye examinations and treatments. Employing cutting-edge technology not only elevates the precision of diagnoses but also enhances patient comfort, resulting in the provision of optimal eye care services.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2024. Click here to view the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — On Thursday, January 11, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police were called to a home on Paris Place following a reported burglary. Initial findings revealed that an unidentified suspect(s) had unlawfully entered the residence between Tuesday, January 9, and January 11, by forcing their way in through the rear of the house and subsequently searching through its interior.
The investigation into this matter remains active, and individuals with any pertinent information are urged to reach out to the Parsippany Investigative Division at (973) 263-4300.
PARSIPPANY — On January 9, 2024, officers responded to a business on Edwards Road for a stolen vehicle. The victim advised officers that on December 23, 2023, a 2024 Freightliner M2 was stolen from their property. The truck was valued at approximately $150,000 by the victim.
The investigation into this incident is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Parsippany Investigative Division at (973) 263-4300.
PARSIPPANY — A fire broke out in Room 227 of the Days Inn located at 3159 Route 46 on Friday, December 12, around 7:15 p.m. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries.
Multiple fire departments, including the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Department District 1, Parsippany District 5 Fire Department, Parsippany-Troy Hills Fire District 6, and Boonton Fire Department, swiftly responded to the incident.
Initial reports indicated that the fire had started on the second floor, leading to the evacuation of the building, which was filled with dense smoke. Thanks to the prompt response of the firefighters, the fire was rapidly extinguished. Subsequently, a fire investigator and fire prevention personnel were requested to the scene.
Aaria Nair from Mt. Tabor Elementary School secured the First Place position, followed by Riya Patel from Northvail Elementary School in Second Place, and Vtkarsh Agajwal from Northvail Elementary School in Third Place, at the Eighth Annual Spelling Bee.
PARSIPPANY — The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills (WCPTH) hosted its Eighth Annual Spelling Bee at the Parsippany Hills High School auditorium on Friday, January 12.
Twenty-five fifth-grade students, representing all ten Parsippany Elementary Schools, participated in this exciting Spelling Bee event. Enthusiastic parents, family members, and teachers eagerly watched as the students took to the microphone to spell each word. The judging panel consisted of Melissa Kuzma, Director of Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System, William Westhoven, a Gannett NJ Daily Record reporter, and Dr. Matthew Thompson, Parsippany Hills High School Principal. Mary Ann Coyne, a WCPTH club member and chairperson of the Eighth Annual Spelling Bee, served as the Moderator, while Marianne Burke, another club member, was the Pronouncer.
After thrilling nailbiting rounds, a winner was finally declared, Aaria Nair from Mt. Tabor Elementary School secured the First Place position, followed by Riya Patel from Northvail Elementary School in Second Place, and Vtkarsh Agajwal from Northvail Elementary School in Third Place. All three winners have been invited to participate in the New Jersey State Federated Women’s Club (NJSFWC) Highlands District Spelling Bee scheduled for Saturday, February 24, in Rockaway. The regional winners will further compete in the State Championship at the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC (NJSFWC) Headquarters on Saturday, April 20, in New Brunswick.
Events like these are made possible through the various fundraising activities conducted by the Woman’s Club throughout the year. They encourage everyone to consider supporting the club’s efforts, enabling them to continue supporting various community organizations.
Mary Ann Coyne, a WCPTH club member and chairperson of the Eighth Annual Spelling Bee, served as the Moderator,
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a proud member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC. These organizations are the largest volunteer women’s service organizations in the country/state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. New members are always welcome, so if you’re interested, attend the next General Meeting on Monday, January 22, to see if the club is the right fit for you.
For more information, you can contact Ginny at (973) 887-0336, email the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com, visit their website at www.parsippanywomansclub.org, or follow the club on FACEBOOK, Twitter, or Instagram.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2024. Click here to view the magazine.
MORRIS COUNTY — Jigisha Desai, a 55-year-old woman, in Rockaway, had been grappling with the harsh reality of chronic kidney disease (CKD) for two long decades. Her encounter with this relentless condition was entirely by chance, as it was discovered while she underwent surgery for a separate health issue.
CKD brought with it a relentless barrage of symptoms and challenges that would test the limits of Jigisha’s determination. She faced a multitude of health issues, financial hardships, emotional turmoil, and physical limitations, all while shouldering the responsibility of raising her two children and dealing with the loss of her family’s business. In the face of these overwhelming obstacles, Jigisha’s unwavering spirit propelled her forward.
Jigisha Desai
Around the age of 36, chronic arthritis set in, primarily targeting her knees. The pain became excruciating, and the need for a knee replacement became evident. However, her pre-existing kidney disease complicated matters further. Doctors, fearing the impact of painkillers on her already compromised kidneys, advised against surgery. Consequently, Jigisha found herself living with unrelenting pain and enduring extreme fatigue, both of which took a toll not only on her but also on her family.
Determined to delay the relentless progression of CKD, Jigisha embarked on a journey of dietary transformation. She embraced a whole-food, plant-based diet, rigorously avoiding high-sodium, high-protein, high-potassium, and high-phosphorus foods. Her diligent research led her to this dietary shift, driven by the hope of reducing the strain on her kidneys. Indeed, this lifestyle change proved beneficial in slowing down the progression of her condition. However, after two decades of relentless struggle, Jigisha stood at a critical juncture in her life.
Her only chance for a better life now hinged on the prospect of finding a living kidney donor and undergoing a kidney transplant. Jigisha’s pursuit of this lifeline led her to St. Barnabas in Livingston, where Allison Moorman, her transplant coordinator, worked tirelessly to facilitate the process. Jigisha’s blood type was O+, but she held onto hope, knowing that St. Barnabas participated in the paired exchange program, broadening her possibilities.
With unwavering courage, Jigisha appealed to the compassion of those who could make a difference. She earnestly implored potential donors to complete the living donor referral form, specifying their intention to donate to Jigisha Desai. It was a plea for a second chance at life, an opportunity to surmount the adversities that had defined her life for far too long.
In the face of daunting challenges, Jigisha Desai remained resolute, a symbol of the human spirit’s strength and the resilience born from hope. Her journey was far from over, and she clung to the belief that, with the support of compassionate donors, she could triumph over chronic kidney disease. It was a quest to rewrite the narrative of her life with the gift of a life-saving transplant.
She is listed at St. Barnabas in Livingston and her transplant coordinator is Allison Moorman at (973) 322-5082. Her blood type is O+, but it doesn’t matter because St. Barnabas does participate in the paired exchange program. Please fill out the living donor referral form and include the donor for Jigisha Desai.
PARSIPPANY — Provenir, headquartered at 1 Upper Pond Road, Parsippany, a prominent global leader in AI-driven risk decisioning software, has announced the appointment of Lori Copeland as their new Chief People Officer.
In her new role, Copeland will take charge of formulating and implementing the human resource strategy aligned with the organization’s overall business plan and strategic direction. She will provide leadership and guidance across all HR functions and devise recruitment strategies to attract fresh talent, further expanding Provenir’s workforce, which currently spans 25 countries worldwide.
Lori Copeland, a seasoned senior human resources executive with over two decades of experience, has a proven track record of engaging key stakeholders, achieving tangible results, and driving initiatives in complex global matrix organizations.
Before joining Provenir, Copeland served as the Global Vice President of Human Resources at LGC, a global life science technology company under private equity ownership. Before this role, she held the position of Global Human Resources Leader at General Electric Digital, a startup focused on the Internet of Things (IoT) within General Electric.
Larry Smith, the founder and CEO of Provenir, expressed his confidence in Copeland’s capabilities, stating, “Lori brings an impressive background in human resources and organizational development to our leadership team. Her leadership will play a crucial role in supporting our people operations and nurturing a high-impact workforce as we continue to expand.”
Copeland herself expressed enthusiasm about joining Provenir during its global expansion and its commitment to investing in its employees to deliver innovative solutions to the financial services market. She said, “As Provenir continues to provide technology that empowers financial institutions and fintech companies worldwide, I eagerly anticipate contributing to the growth and development of the company’s most valuable asset — its people.”
MORRIS COUNTY — As a volunteer tax preparer for United Way of Northern New Jersey’s free tax preparation program earlier this year, Sharareh relished helping clients save hundreds in tax preparer fees and perhaps receive a refund. She knew firsthand what it was like to struggle financially and receive some much-needed relief.
“I’ve been in that situation before,” said Sharareh, who years earlier found herself a client of United Way’s free tax preparation program. When the timing was right, she didn’t hesitate to give back and become a volunteer.
“It just makes me happy that I’m doing something and helping someone,” said Sharareh. “It’s joyful.”
United Way has launched its recruitment campaign for volunteer tax preparers to have trained volunteers across its five-county footprint of Morris, Suburban Essex, Somerset, Sussex, and Warren counties.
Like Sharareh, area residents can make a difference by signing up as volunteer tax preparers for the upcoming tax season. Volunteers help ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) and households in poverty throughout the northern New Jersey region avoid the high cost of preparation fees.
“Becoming a volunteer tax preparer is a tangible way to make a difference in the lives of those struggling to afford life’s basics,” said United Way of Northern New Jersey CEO Kiran Handa Gaudioso. “By helping ALICE avoid high preparation fees and receive tax credits for which they are eligible, much-needed funds are put back into their wallets and the local economy.”
Like volunteers before her, Sharareh learned that not having an accounting background or any prior experience wasn’t an issue. A free training course taught her what she needed to know, and fellow volunteers and United Way staff were always on hand to answer any questions and review her work.
During the last tax season, Sharareh was among the 200 volunteers who helped United Way of Northern New Jersey and its partners — Norwescap, Greater Providence Missionary Baptist Church, and the IRS — file an estimated 5,000 returns for free. This collaboration saved struggling families $1.5 million in tax preparation costs.
“What you accomplish at the end is worth it,” Sharareh said.
For more information about becoming a volunteer tax preparer, email Monica.Conover@UnitedWayNNJ.org, call (973) 993-1160 x529 or click here.
