PARSIPPANY — Embracing the delightful tradition of enchanting North Beverwyck Road, the warm-hearted business owners gathered to adorn the exteriors of their establishments with whimsical fall decorations.

Smiling scarecrows, cozy haystacks, swaying corn stalks, radiant mums, and an array of other endearing embellishments came together to joyfully celebrate the arrival of the enchanting autumn season.

As daylight waned and the stars began to twinkle, these charming decorations whispered tales of friendly gatherings, where laughter echoed in the crisp autumn air, and the spirit of togetherness flourished in the heartwarming season.

As you embark on a twilight journey along the enchanting North Beverwyck Road, whether you’re indulging in a delightful scoop of pumpkin ice cream at the Dairy of Lake Hiawatha, savoring the exquisite flavors of Afghanistan at Kabab Paradise, entrusting your locks to the talented hands of Parsippany Cuts, or exploring the floral wonders of Landmark Florist, an array of exciting experiences awaits you.

Amidst this captivating parade of wonders, don’t let the bewitching Unity Bank elude your gaze. Within its newly remodeled branch, secrets of grandeur and mystique await discovery, as their decorations weave a spellbinding tale that beckons you to linger in the enchanting realm of Lake Hiawatha.

Established in April 2011, “The Friends of Lake Hiawatha” emerged as a non-profit organization driven by a singular mission: to elevate the aesthetics of the Lake Hiawatha business area and foster a stronger sense of community within the neighborhood.

One of the hallmark events orchestrated by “The Friends of Lake Hiawatha” is the highly anticipated Winterfest, a cherished gathering held annually on Saturday, December 9. This event has garnered widespread popularity among both children and parents alike. Santa Claus himself makes a grand entrance, arriving in splendid style aboard the Lake Hiawatha fire truck, graciously aided by volunteer firefighters.

Once Santa takes his seat in the charming Gazebo, children are treated to a heartwarming visit. Thanks to Santa’s diligent elves, each child receives a sweet candy cane and a ticket to participate in the organization’s annual raffle. While eagerly awaiting their turn with Santa, the little ones savor hot chocolate and cookies while being serenaded by the festive sounds of holiday music. As the evening draws to a close, “The Friends of Lake Hiawatha” host a thrilling raffle, awarding ten-inch girls’ and boys’ bicycles to two fortunate winners, adding an extra dose of excitement to the festivities.

The present custodians of this noble organization, Antoinette Piccolo-Simmons, and John Pascarella, remain dedicated to the ongoing enhancement of Beverwyck Road and the provision of community-oriented activities. Their commitment ensures that the spirit of camaraderie and the beautification of the neighborhood continue to flourish.

PARSIPPANY  — Kelly Lustig passed on October 11, 2023, at the age of 84.

She was born on September 25, 1939, to Dr. Mitchell and Sybil Shack. Though her legal name is Roberta Nancy Shack, in her teens she went by Nancy; but to most people, for most of her life she was known as Kelly. We like to think that’s why she had such a big bright personality. Kelly grew up in Newark and spent her summers at Camp Weequahic in Northeastern Pennsylvania. It was there that she met her husband, Jerry Lustig. The two were captains of the first camp-wide Olympics competition and were directors of the camp for most of their adult lives.

Kelly went to Weequahic High School in Newark, attended Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, New York, and got her Master’s Degree at Rutgers University. She and Jerry got married on June 23, 1963.

In addition to her work at Weequahic, Kelly taught elementary school in Parsippany until she gave birth to her children Jodi and Steven. She very proudly became a Bat Mitzvah at her older age, singing her haftarah beautifully after long nights practicing with her beloved tuneful dog, Jax. She worked tirelessly for the Mount Pleasant Animal Shelter, sang in Congregation Agudeth Israel’s choir, and was an avid fan of her grandchildren’s football and lacrosse games. The Twin Boro Bears, New York Giants, and Michigan Wolverines have lost a most cheesetastic fan!

Kelly Lustig was a member of the Mount Pleasant Animal Shelter Board for more than 20 years and served as President, Vice President, and Secretary in addition to serving on the Development and Finance Committees. Kelly would often say that her greatest joy was doing Pet Therapy visits with her MPAS adoptees Jax and Dani. Kelly’s thoughtful nature brought smiles to the faces of those whose lives she made better.

She was a long-time member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany joining the organization in 1994.

Kelly was the beloved wife of Gerald Lustig for 60 years, the loving mother of Jodi Lustig (Adam Wattstein) and Steven Lustig (Kim Lustig), devoted grandmother of Austin, Mason, and Colton.

A funeral service for Kelly will be held Sunday, October 15, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at Bernheim-Apter-Kreitzman Suburban Funeral Chapel, 68 Old Short Hills Road, Livingston, New Jersey. Following the funeral service will be a burial at 2:15 PM at Mount Lebanon Cemetery, 189 Gill Lane, Iselin, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, please consider giving a gift to Kelly’s favorite charity: the Mount Pleasant Animal Shelter, 194 Route 10, East Hanover, New Jersey 07936.

PARSIPPANY  — The Parsippany Historical and Preservation Society invites you to a presentation at Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library, 449 Halsey Road, Parsippany, entitled “Stories from Beverwyck: Lives Bought and Sold,” Wednesday, October 18, at 6:30 p.m.

Come listen to the story of Aunt Peggy, an enslaved person who lived and worked at Beverwyck, the large farm plantation once located at the current site of the NJ Transit Bus Stop at Beverwyck and Route 46.

PARSIPPANY — Join the Wellness Gala on Sunday, November 12, from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Sheraton Hotel, 199 Smith Road. Parsippany for “An Unprecedented Day of Insight.”

Experience a gathering of globally acclaimed Intuitives and healers ready to share their wisdom on a range of topics. The event will feature an interactive Q&A session, addressing questions on love, career, spirituality, and beyond.

Delve deeper with healing sessions, engaging mini-workshops, wine tastings, food, and exclusive vendor exhibits.

Support the Humane Society through the silent auction.

Don’t miss the keynote speaker, Mas Sajady, presenting “Change your Frequency, Change your Life”, followed by hands-on healing and meditation at 5:00 p.m.

Enjoy a VIP exclusive opportunity to meet and interact with panel members and our celebrity guest, Concetta Bertoldi; a renowned psychic medium and NYTimes best-selling author.

For tickets and more details, click here.

Also, catch ‘Balance Your Life’ TV show every Saturday at 10:30 a.m. in the NY metro area on Optimum channel 61 and Fios 530. Or watch anytime on YouTube: by clicking here.”

MORRIS COUNTY — Senators Joe Pennacchio and Bob Singer condemned the terrorist attacks launched by Hamas into Israel over the weekend and called on New Jersey legislators to immediately return to Trenton to pass a resolution supporting Israel and the Jewish people.

“Israel is the home for all Jewish people throughout the world. It breaks my heart to see the senseless violence that has erupted in Israel after visiting the country just a few weeks ago. We must condemn the unjust violence against Israel and offer our unwavering support for our Jewish communities during this difficult time,” said Pennacchio (R-26). “The atrocities being committed by Hamas Terrorists against innocent women and children are horrible. Everyone has a right to exist in peace. The Senate should return to Trenton immediately to pass a resolution to show that we stand in solidarity with Israel and the Jewish People.”

Senator Pennacchio and Senator Singer announced that they would be drafting a resolution that shows support for Israel in the wake of ongoing terrorist attacks in the Middle Eastern nation.

“As the representative for the largest Jewish community in the State, I find the terrorist attacks in Israel to be incredibly abhorrent. The Jewish community deserves the Legislature’s unwavering support in the wake of this horrific violence,” said Singer (R-30). “My heart breaks for the families impacted by this global atrocity. It is necessary now, more than ever, for the Legislature to stand in solidarity with our Jewish communities. The Senate must reconvene in Trenton to pass our resolution and condemn Hamas for their violence against Israel.”

PARSIPPANY — The Immunization Clinic for Dogs and Cats will be held on Saturday, November 18, at the Office of Emergency building, at the Recycling Center, 1 Pumphouse Road.

Dogs and Cats

• No charge for dogs and cats (11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.)
• Dogs must be restrained on a leash and accompanied by an adult
• Cats must be restrained in carriers or similar carrying devices

Any questions please call the health department at (973) 263-7160.

PARSIPPANY — Representatives Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) and Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the bipartisan Strengthening Communities through the Summer Employment Act. This legislation will provide funding to Summer Youth Employment Programs to expand job opportunities for youth and to develop innovative programs that improve economic and criminal justice outcomes for young people in New Jersey and across the country. These evidence-based job programs have a proven track record of reducing crime rates. Particularly at a time when criminal organizations are recruiting minors to commit auto thefts and other crimes in New Jersey, this legislation will give young people economic opportunities that will help keep them out of the justice system and strengthen the safety of our communities.

“I saw firsthand as a former Outreach and Reentry Coordinator at the U.S Attorney’s Office that job training programs not only help people get ahead but can also significantly reduce crime and improve public safety. I’ve heard similar feedback from mayors, law enforcement, and community leaders across New Jersey,” said Rep. Mikie Sherrill. “That’s why I’m taking action with legislation that will offer thousands of young New Jerseyans an opportunity to build important career skills and enter the workforce, which will set them up for success later in life and make our communities stronger and safer for the long-term.”<

“My college summer job as a snack vendor at Yankee Stadium gave me invaluable work experience and enabled me to hone my time management skills. By providing youth with meaningful employment opportunities, we not only empower them to develop essential skills, but we also instill a sense of purpose and responsibility,” said Rep. Mike Lawler. “For these reasons, I’m proud to join Rep. Mikie Sherrill in introducing The Strengthening Communities through Summer Employment Act, which would create a grant program to help fund Summer Youth Employment Programs and improve economic and criminal justice outcomes for youths. Jobs serve as a powerful deterrent, redirecting the energy and aspirations of our young population toward building promising futures. I look forward to working with my colleagues to get this bipartisan bill passed.”<

The Strengthening Communities through Summer Employment Act has been endorsed by the National Troopers Coalition, International Union of Police Associations, New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, New Jersey Business and Industry Association, Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris, andNewBridge Services. Original cosponsors of the bill include Reps. Don Davis (NC-01), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Andy Kim (NJ-03), Kathy Manning (NC-06), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), and David Trone (MD-06).

“The National Troopers Coalition is pleased to endorse the Strengthening Communities through Summer Employment Act introduced by Reps. Mikie Sherrill and Mike Lawler. Our leadership, as well as our membership of approximately 47,000 state troopers across 43 member states, appreciate the leadership of Congresswoman Sherrill in working to address systemic youth unemployment,” said Nathan S. Johnson, Chairman of the National Troopers Coalition. “We know through experience that our communities are safer when young people have the opportunity for productive activities throughout the year. We believe this legislation represents an important investment in providing young people with productive summer opportunities, increasing their skills, improving their economic opportunities, and helping to strengthen our communities.”

“The International Union of Police Associations is proud to announce our support of the Strengthening Communities Through Summer Employment Act. The act will provide subsidized employment opportunities for our youth and, as we have seen, have a major impact on juvenile crime rates,” said Sam Cabral, President of the International Union of Police Associations. Many of our youth have little access to jobs, leaving them without worthwhile activities and the opportunity to build their self-esteem and learn job skills. The programs have been shown to significantly reduce juvenile crimes where it has been available in Chicago, New York, and Boston. We look forward to an expansion of this program and the positive results it will have on the safety of our communities and the future of our young.”

“Whenever we can engage with youth, investing in their ongoing education, emotional well-being, and leadership opportunities, there is a beneficial impact. Law enforcement firmly believes that positive and ongoing engagement with youth directly correlates to a reduction in criminal activity,” said Rockaway Borough Police Chief and New Jersey State Chiefs of Police Legislative Committee Chair Conrad Pepperman. “Statistics routinely show that summer youth employment programs drastically reduce crime and interactions with police. The New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police strongly supports this bill and appreciates the Congresswoman’s efforts to create subsidized jobs for teens. It is impactful legislation that deserves widespread support.”

“Preparing our youth for the workforce is a top priority for the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce – and our Foundation – and it is never too early to begin that critical work. By providing summer employment opportunities in communities where they are not always available, we are helping students to build the necessary skills to enable them to succeed long-term in college or at future jobs,” said Thomas Bracken, President & CEO of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce. “We applaud Rep. Mikie Sherrill for recognizing the importance of this issue – and especially for introducing the Strengthening Communities Through Summer Employment Act which aims to benefit those youngsters from challenging and often disadvantaged backgrounds.”

“NJBIA joins Reps. Sherrill and Lawler in strong support of the Summer Employment Act. As we helped create and advance into law a bill that would expand teen worker hours in New Jersey, we understand the great need to help employers find more youth workers, allow them more opportunities for more hours and more pay, and also help New Jersey residents and visitors receive better service at their favorite destinations, retailers and stores,” said Michele Siekerka, President and CEO of the New Jersey Business and Industry Association. “Improving criminal justice outcomes through enhancement of existing employment programs, or the creation of new ones where needed, makes this bill a win-win-win for employers, employees, and the public.”

“I am excited to see Congresswoman Sherrill’s new legislation ‘The Strengthening Communities through Summer Employment Act’ introduced today,” said Senator Linda Greenstein (LD-14). “These programs not only help young adults get started in the workforce, but they allow them to gain truly invaluable career skills and life experience. New Jersey – and the nation – will be well-served by this legislation.”

“Our Annual Summer Youth Employment Program provides high school and college age residents with opportunities to gain valuable experience that will help prepare them for the workforce and their future,” said Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.“Congresswoman Sherrill’s Strengthening Communities Through Summer Employment Act legislation represents a greater investment in the future of our young adults and will help put our next generation on a path to success.”

“Summer youth employment programs have been a great source of support for young students to obtain much-needed funds to assist them in the following school year,” said Essex County Prosecutor Ted Stephens. “Entities like the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office would certainly compete for these funds because, we believe, a summer with our office can provide the unique opportunity to develop great mentor/mentee relationships while helping dispel negative community images about law enforcement and the careers it can offer.”<

Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said in support, “The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, and New Jersey law enforcement through recent juvenile justice reforms, strive to help young people avoid involvement in criminal conduct. Subsidized jobs, made possible through the proposed Act, could be one such method for connecting youth with meaningful employment, and potentially avoiding an unacceptable escalation of misconduct. In addition to income, our young people can gain career skills and mentorship, which enable them to grow into stable, adult citizens.”

“Keeping our children engaged in meaningful productive activities is essential to their success as students and human beings. Programs, such as these, keep our children engaged in positive initiatives which reduce crime and give our youth purpose and experience that will assist them not only as children but for their professional and public life,” said Essex County Sheriff Armando Fontoura.

“This is a great initiative that provides community engagement and outreach to juveniles. From a criminal justice standpoint, it helps divert juveniles away from criminal paths and mentors them to become productive members of the community. From an economic perspective, it will help fill staffing shortages within our community businesses and help underprivileged families earn extra income. This bill will integrate juveniles with the community and will instill a sense of pride, which will ultimately help to reduce juvenile crime rates,” said Chief George Ricci, Bloomfield Police Department.

“For many young people, the best Summer program is a job. The best mental health program is a job. The best criminal justice diversion program is a job. The best violence prevention program is a job. Keeping our young people engaged in civic and economic life is essential to their well-being, as well as great preparation for adulthood. A job is the perfect vehicle to accompany the majority of our youth through the storms of adolescence, and ensure they remain healthy,” said Robert N. Davison, MA, LPC, CEO of the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris.

“An investment in young people is an investment in our future and to strengthen New Jersey communities. That’s why NewBridge has been providing career-building services to out-of-school youth for more than 40 years,” said Michelle Borden, CEO of NewBridge Services. “Summer employment opportunities have been proven to change lives and reduce criminal activity among youths. Congresswoman Sherrill’s legislation is forward-thinking, sets kids up for success, and will help break down barriers and inequities for kids who need it most.”

The Strengthening Communities through Summer Employment Act will create a new competitive grant program within the Department of Labor to fund Summer Youth Employment Program operators. Funded programs will be required to match participating young people with an employer based on the needs of the employers and skills and interests of the youth; provide coaching and mentoring services and job readiness supports such as career counseling and digital literacy training to youth participants; and partner with a research organization to conduct a rigorous evaluation of the program.

This legislation will also provide competitive grants to Summer Youth Employment Program operators to develop and implement innovative approaches to subsidized summer employment that are not already used by existing programs but show promise in improving economic and criminal justice outcomes for youths, such as individualized and high-dosage mentoring; job training, resume development, and financial literacy classes; and mental health and substance abuse supports where needed.

Summer Youth Employment Programs have been successfully implemented in a number of cities and towns across New Jersey. Essex County and Morris County both operate youth employment programs to help young people gain workforce skills, while Newark’s program has been significantly scaled up in recent years to serve over 3,000 young people annually.

Nationwide, Summer Youth Employment Programs have demonstrated significant promise in reducing violent crimes across several rigorous evaluations:

• Chicago’s youth summer jobs program reduced violent crime arrests among participants by 45%, leading to a benefit-cost ratio of as much as 11 to 1;
• Boston’s youth summer jobs program reduced violent crime arrests among participants by 35% and property crime arrests by 57%; and
• New York City’s youth summer jobs program reduced felony arrests among participants by 23% and felony convictions by 38%.

PARSIPPANY — In a display of commitment to their community and vision for Parsippany’s future, Town Council candidates Judy Hernandez, Bernard Clarkin, and Matthew Kavanaugh hosted an elegant campaign reception at the Knoll West Country Club.

The upscale venue was buzzing with energy as supporters, family members, and local dignitaries converged to show their endorsement and learn more about the trio’s electoral platform. Eloquent speeches, compelling visions, and engaging conversations dominated the evening, presenting a unified vision for a prosperous Parsippany.

As attendees mingled, sipped on drinks, and enjoyed the culinary delights, the air was thick with anticipation and optimism. Each candidate took turns addressing the gathering, sharing their aspirations for the community, and detailing plans they intend to implement once in office.

The event also served as a timely reminder of the critical dates leading up to the elections.

By the evening’s end, it was clear that Hernandez, Clarkin, and Kavanaugh had not only solidified existing support but likely won over a few undecided voters with their passion and dedication.

Judy Hernandez is a 24-year resident of Parsippany. Judy, an environmental engineer by trade, has decades of local volunteer experience, which has delivered real results for Parsippany residents. Judy has served on the Parsippany Planning Board, the Environmental Advisory Committee, and the Parsippany Child Day Care Center board. Judy is running to bring proven and sustainable environmental and economic strategies to Parsippany, continuing her volunteer service to our community.

Bernard Clarkin is a 35-year resident of Parsippany. He is a certified public accountant and has served as chief financial officer of a mid-size service company for over 20 years. He has owned and operated a small business for the last ten years and will bring decades of financial and budgeting experience to the Council. Having spoken out at several Council meetings, Bernard is running to bring more transparency and strong fiscal oversight to our local government.

Matt Kavanagh is a 10-year resident of Parsippany. A United States Naval Academy graduate, he is the Parsippany Green Team co-leader and currently serves as a chief operating officer of an energy services company. Matt has dedicated his career to the energy sector, including renewable energy, sustainable solutions, and energy services to facilitate a clean and equitable environment. He has written grants resulting in thousands of dollars in funding for Parsippany. He is running to bring that expertise to our governing body.

“I’m excited to endorse this terrific slate of candidates focused on issues that matter to residents!” said Morris County Democratic Committee Chair Amalia Duarte. “They are committed to listening to residents’ concerns and fighting to improve the quality of life in Parsippany.”