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Lake Parsippany holds open house and giant flea market

Frank L. Cahill
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Lake Parsippany holds open house and giant flea market

PARISPPANY —It was raining early morning, but the weather cleared up to be a perfect day for the Lake Parsippany giant flea market and Open House, on Saturday, June 3.

The day was full of events including dragon boat, swimming, face painting, food, playing in the sand, live music and a flea market offering many items. Parsippany CERT, Parsippany Police Department and many organizations were present educating residents, and distributing literature. Boy Scout Troop 173 was assisting with the annual open house.

You can join the LPPOA Ladies Club for fun and community involvement. Interested individuals should contact Diane Low at (973) 887-1268. The fishing club meets once a month and holds fishing contests during the season.Thru their Trout Stocking Program, they host a “Stocking Day” event where the lake is stocked with trout one week before the season opens. Young anglers get the opportunity to learn about our program and release trout into the lake. Interested in joining the fishing club call Winnie Marone at (973) 887-3087.

Lake Parsippany is a private lake community quietly nestled in the center of Parsippany-Troy Hills, in Morris County. This 168 acre lake and grounds is fully funded and maintained by membership fees and member volunteers. We receive no State, County or Township funding. Our Community welcomes everyone to join our association, regardless of where you live and enjoy a piece of the lake.

The Lake Parsippany Property Owners Association members maintain and manage all operations of the lake throughout the year. The membership preserves this beautiful natural resource through its fees and through active volunteer participation in the community.

Membership is required to participate in its many activities that include fishing in a trout stocked lake, sailing, swimming, sunbathing, competitive sports, concerts, dances, family fun nights and much more.

Membership in the Association is not limited to Lake Parsippany Property Owners. Renters and residents from outside of the Lake Parsippany area are also welcome to join. The Association is a not for profit organization.

In addition to all of the activities available with membership, the Association also supports various Clubs and Committees.

Lake Parsippany is home of the New Jersey Dragon Boat Club. Dotting of the eye is an annual ritual of the New Jersey Dragon Boat Club during the open house day. 2017 marks the 17th year in which the NJ Dragon Boat Club has been at Lake Parsippany.

NJ’s 1st dragon boat club, started with a recreational crew, added a competitive crew and then a junior crew since their first visit to the Boat House.

This ancient Chinese Eye Dotting ceremony, “The Awakening of The Dragons,” features local and visiting dignitaries painting red dots on the eyes of the ceremonial dragon boat figure heads to officially “wake” them up.

Hoffman Beach opens up full time for the summer starting Friday, June 23. From now until then the beach is open Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For more information on Lake Parsippany, click here.

Burglary at East Coast Salon

Frank L. Cahill
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Burglary at East Coast Salon

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrol Units responded to a burglary at East Coast Salon Services and spoke to the manager at 8:17 a.m. on Saturday, May 27. It was determined that the burglary occurred between May 27 at 2:00 p.m. and the morning May 30.

It was further determined the unknown suspect(s) shattered a rear window to gain entry into the structure. The manager advised the Officers that cash was stolen from the premise. The Parsippany Detective Bureau along with the Morris County Criminal Investigative Section responded to the scene to assist in the investigation.

This incident remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact the Parsippany Police Department’s Investigative Division at 973-263-4311.

Letter to editor: Louie the Lair

Letters to the Editor
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Dear Editor:

Tuesday, June 6 is the primary. I urge all Republicans to get out and vote. I have been attending town council meetings for 13 years and I do have some concerns I would like to share with my fellow Parsippany residents.

Candidate Vincent Ferrara was a yes man to Mayor Barberio when he served on the council previously. Mr. Ferrara has stated on record that “anything the Mayor wants I will give him”. That kind of attitude is not needed on the council. What we need are people with fresh ideas and a mind of their own. From what I remember he rarely questioned anything but always voted yes. Mr. Ferrara also had an altercation with a township resident who was head of intramural soccer league who felt threaten, harassed and intimidated (See louietheliar.com for copy of letter).

Candidate Lou Valori in my opinion seems to have stabbed the taxpayers of Parsippany in the back.

He has flip-flopped on all the principles and promises he ran on back in 2013. Here are a few issues to consider:

1)  Mr. Valori took it upon himself to change the amount of time each resident can speak at a council meeting from five minutes to three minutes. Residents have questioned him on this he gives no response.

2)  Mr. Valori voted to have Mr. Inglesino removed as township attorney in 2014, 2015 and 2016 (fees were exorbitant). In 2017 he voted to keep Mr. Inglesino. Why???? What has changed? Mr. Inglesino’s 1099 for 2016 was $701,985.21.

3) Mr. Valori voted for 0% municipal tax increase this year (figures 0% during election year). Why can’t  this be done during non election years? Remember we didn’t use 2% in 2017 so this gets carried over to 2018. That means in 2018 our taxes can increase up to 4%. Nice job Lou.

4)  Mr. Valori was chosen to head the transparency committee in 2014.  This committee met once in 2014 and has not met since. How transparent is Mr. Valori?

5)  Mr. Valori promised taxpayers he would stay on top of police overtime and work with Chief Philipps to rein in overtime spending. Didn’t happen. Well over one million dollars was paid out in 2016.

6)  Mr. Valori was elected to serve a four year term as a councilmen but ran for Freeholder in 2016 with the support of Mayor Barberio and Mr. Inglesino. Did not anybody else find this odd?

All in all, Mr. Valori in my opinion has been a big disappointment. How can he change his convictions so easily? Think about all the trash talk the last four years between Mr. Inglesino, Mayor Barberio and Mr. Valori. The disruption they caused the township. Mr. Valori made many comments against Mayor Barberio and Mr. Inglesino accusing them of and I quote “it’s time for the Mayor to stop wasting taxpayers dollars to pursue his personal vendetta against Mr. Carifi”. Valori also accused Mayor Barberio of bribing him and brought charges against him.

So, I ask the residents of Parsippany where is Mr. Valori’s integrity or for that matter Mayor Barberio’s also. For them to join forces leaves one’s mind to wonder Why? What strange bedfellows they make. I for one will be voting for Mr. Parikh and Mr. Martino.

 

Pat Petaccia
Parsippany

Letters to the Editor: Do you have an opinion to express? Send letters to news@parsippanyfocus.com. Disclaimer: To be considered for publication, letters to the editor must include the writer’s full name, address and daytime phone number. Letters may be condensed, although care is taken to preserve the writer’s comments (maximum 200 words). Copyright in material submitted to Parsippany Focus and accepted for publication remains with the author, but Parsippany Focus may freely reproduce it in print, electronic or other forms. We are unable to acknowledge receipt of letters. All information contained in a letter to the editor, is the opinion of the writer and not the opinion of Parsippany Focus.

Vehicle stolen from 7-11; recovered in Newark

Frank L. Cahill
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Vehicle stolen from 7-11; recovered in Newark

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officers responded to a theft of a motor vehicle that occurred at 12:10 a.m. on May 29 at the 7-11 on North Beverwyck Road.

Upon arrival of Patrol Officer Jaime Mendez made contact with the victim.

The victim advised him that their 2014 Lexus IS250 was left unlocked and running in the parking lot when they went inside the store. While inside the store, the victim observed the vehicle being driven away by an unknown suspect. The vehicle fled the area heading south on North Beverwyck Road.

On May 30 at 5:14 p.m. the Parsippany Police Department was notified that the vehicle was located unoccupied in Newark. The victim was advised on how to recover their vehicle.

This incident remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact the Parsippany Police Department’s Investigative Division at (973) 263-4311.

CCM Students Create Prosthetic Hands for Children in Need

Frank L. Cahill
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CCM Students Create Prosthetic Hands for Children in Need

PARSIPPANY — The Spring Semester has come to an end, but Vivian Rosenberg, of Lake Hiawatha, and Brian Seligson, of Parsippany, students at County College of Morris (CCM), have remained on campus to finish creating prosthetic hands for children around the world.

The hands are created on the 3D printers in the college’s engineering labs and carefully assembled by the students using heavy-duty fishing line and Velcro. The hands are being made for three different groups that help children who have lost or are missing part of their limbs.

“I joined an online community of prosthetic 3D print groups and they put me in contact with an organization called Limbs with Love,” explains Eric Pedersen, engineering lab assistant. That organization provides children in the United States and around the world with prosthetic limbs free of cost.

Next Pedersen heard about a church in Baltimore that provides prosthetic hands to children in India through one of its mission programs. Then engineering Professor Tom Roskop told him he was making a trip to Brazil and the nonprofit group Enabling the Future, which also provides prosthetic hands to children around the world, was interested in obtaining two to three hands for children there.

Prior to 3D printing, prosthetic limbs could be quite costly but now they can be printed and assembled for about $20.00 to $30.00 in materials, according to Pedersen.

“It’s work that is really beneficial and we’re getting to build a network and obtain real-life experience,” says Rosenberg.

“I thought it was cool, the first time I saw them,” adds Seligson.

The students have taken on the work as members of the college’s Women in STEM club. Before the summer gets into full swing, Pedersen and the students expect to complete and ship about a dozen hands. Pedersen’s hope is that the work will continue come the Fall Semester as an ongoing project of Women in STEM.

 

 

Three Parsippany residents on Dean’s List at James Madison University

Frank L. Cahill
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Three Parsippany residents on Dean’s List at James Madison University

PARSIPPANY — James Madison University is pleased to announce three students from Parsippany made the dean’s list for the spring 2017 semester.

Erica Ruja, a Parsippany Hills High School Graduate of 2014, who is majoring in psychology and is scheduled to graduate in 2017.

Sarah Orthwein, a Parsippany High School Graduate of 2013, who is majoring in media arts and design and is scheduled to graduate in 2017.

Drew Dembek, a Seton Hall Preparatory School Graduate Class of 2013, who is majoring in hospitality management and is scheduled to graduate in 2017.

James Madison University offers each student a future of significance — not an education of mere prestige, but an extraordinary education of exceptional scholarship, inventive thinking, unparalleled attention to the world community, a university-wide enthusiasm for teaching, and a commitment to student success.

PHS students arrive in style at Senior Prom

Frank L. Cahill
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PHS students arrive in style at Senior Prom

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany High School students arrived in style Thursday, June 1 at the Valley Regency, Clifton for the school’s senior prom.

Seniors will graduate on Thursday, June 22 at Parsippany High School at 9:30 a.m.

Payless seeking to close Morris Hills Shopping Center location

Frank L. Cahill
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Payless seeking to close Morris Hills Shopping Center location

PARSIPPANY — Payless the largest specialty family footwear retailer in the Western Hemisphere, announced in April that it filed motions to help facilitate continued operations in the ordinary course of business while the Company operates under Chapter 11 protection were approved by Judge Kathy A. Surratt-States of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Missouri.

As part of the Court’s approval of first day motions, Payless received authorization on an interim basis from the Court to provide employee wages, healthcare coverage, and other benefits without interruption, and pay certain vendors and suppliers for all authorized goods and services. All vendors and suppliers will be paid in the ordinary course for those goods and services provided on or after the date of the Chapter 11 filing.

The Court’s approvals also affirmed on an interim basis access to $245 million of the $305 million Debtor-in-Possession (DIP) financing facility provided by a lender group led by Wells Fargo.

As a result of the hearing, all Payless stores and Payless.com were able to continue offering without interruption the wide range of affordably priced family footwear for which they are relied on by families across America.

Payless is seeking to close the 3085 Route 46, in the Morris Hills Shopping Center.

Payless has asked a federal bankruptcy court for permission to close 112 stores, including the Route 46 location, and potentially another 296 if conditions don’t improve.

Click here for a complete listing of current stores under negotiation to close.

According to the company’s website “Closure is not a certainty yet, and a final decision depends on bankruptcy negotiations. “We remain hopeful that these negotiations will be successful and provide us with the ability to avoid additional closures.”  A court hearing on the potential closures is set for June 8.

Redstock 2017 returns for a day of fun and excitement

Frank L. Cahill
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Redstock 2017 returns for a day of fun and excitement

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany High School will hold its annual Redstock on Saturday, June 10, inviting the public to participate in many sports activities and games behind the high school. The highlight of the festival will be the Powder Puff flag football game between the senior and junior girls.

This event focuses on bringing local families, students, school-based organizations and area businesses together for a FREE day of entertainment, music, games, food and fun! This year’s festival will feature a vendor area for local businesses to meet and interact with current and potential customers giving them the opportunity to directly distribute samples, promotional items and other marketing material, as well as sell.

The event starts at 12:00 Noon and ends at 3:00 p.m. offers food, live music, face painting, arts and crafts, bounce house, local businesses, dunk tank ($1.00), games and prizes and live entertainment. The PTSA will hold a Tricky Tray and Raffle.

The Central Middle School Flag Football game will start at 5:00 p.m.

The Hawkeye Community awards will begin at 6:00 p.m., and the Juniors vs. Seniors Powderpuff Football game will start at 6:30 p.m.

In addition, they will be collecting canned foods at the gate, so please donate.

Residents Urged to Battle Mosquitos by Removing Standing Water

Frank L. Cahill
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Residents Urged to Battle Mosquitos by Removing Standing Water

 MORRIS COUNTY — The spring rain is continuing – for now. However, once the sun comes back out, be ready to thoroughly check the outside your house, apartment, and condominium or wherever you live in Morris County and drain sources of standing water to eliminate areas where mosquitoes can breed.

If you’d like to help avoid a nasty plague of those pesky biting and disease carrying critters this spring and summer on and around your property, make sure to look for and eliminate all sources of standing water, such as such as planters, gutters, old tires or wheelbarrows.

“If everyone would take steps around their own homes to eliminate standing water, it could make a very big difference, reducing the number of mosquitos by many hundreds of thousands, if not millions, where you live,’’ said Mosquito Division Superintendent Kristian McMorland.

The Morris County Division of Mosquito Control has been active for months preparing for this year’s mosquito battle, but you can be the difference maker when it comes to mosquitos around where you live.

In recent few weeks, when weather has allowed, county mosquito teams have been spraying heavy mosquito breeding areas via trucks, ATVs and back-mounted sprayers. They have sprayed this week in Chatham, Florham Park, and Parsippany, and are set to do spray large areas of Lincoln Park and Montville on Thursday (Click here for the upcoming schedule)

“It’s important to remove or clean or repair anything that can collect rain or sprinkler water – such as clogged gutters, old car tires, wheelbarrows, planters, trash can covers, birdbaths, old tarps, or unused swimming or wading pools,’’ said McMorland. “Even just a bit of standing water can produce a huge number of mosquitoes that can have a negative impact on your quality of life.’’

The most common backyard species of mosquito travels only about thousand feet from where they are spawned. Mosquitoes spend their juvenile life stage in the aquatic environment and will go from egg to adult in about one week during the summer. So removing standing water near your home can have a dramatic impact on your mosquito population.

In addition to the nuisance of mosquitos, they also bring the possibility of mosquito borne diseases, such as West Nile virus, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito.

“Our county team does a great job of working to battle mosquitos in some of the toughest breeding grounds in the county but they need your help when it comes to making a difference in your yard or neighborhood,’’ said Freeholder John Cesaro, liaison to the County Mosquito Control Division. “What steps you take, or don’t take, can affect families living all around you.’’

Steps you can take to reduce mosquito populations include:

  • At least once a week, empty water from flower pots, pet food and water dishes, birdbaths, swimming pool covers, buckets, barrels, and cans.
  • Check for clogged rain gutters and clean them out.
  • Recycle discarded tires, and remove other items that could collect water.
  • Be sure to check for containers or trash in places that may be hard to see, such as under bushes or under your home.

Look very carefully around your property for anything that could hold water in which mosquitos can lay eggs. If you are starting to rebuild, make sure standing water is not collecting on tarps or in any receptacles.

Additional tips on how to limit mosquitoes on your property include:

  • Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar water-holding containers that have accumulated on your property;
  • Drill holes in the bottom and elevate recycling containers that are left outdoors;
  • Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish. Water gardens are fashionable but become major mosquito producers if they are allowed to stagnate;
  • Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, including those that are not being used. A swimming pool that is left untended can produce enough mosquitoes to result in neighborhood-wide complaints.
  • Be aware mosquitoes may even breed in the water that collects on pool covers

It is also a good time now to check screens in windows and doors and make any necessary repairs to prevent mosquitos from entering your home.

For more details on mosquitos, click here.

I-287 northbound ramp to I-80 westbound to close for electrical work

Frank L. Cahill
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I-287 northbound ramp to I-80 westbound to close for electrical work

PARSIPPANY — New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) officials today announced the full closure of the I-287 northbound ramp to I-80 westbound for three nights this week for electrical work in Parsippany-Troy Hills.

Beginning at 11:00 p.m. tonight, Wednesday, May 31 until 5:00 a.m. the next morning, and again overnight on Thursday, June 1, and Friday June 2, NJDOT’s contractor, Daidone Electric, Inc. will close the I-287 northbound ramp to I-80 westbound to perform electrical work. The following signed detour will be in place during construction.

I-287 northbound to I-80 westbound Detour:

·Motorists on I-287 northbound will be directed to take Exit 43 for Intervale Road/Mountain Lakes

·Make a left onto Intervale Road and cross over I-287

·Make a left onto Route 202 southbound/Parsippany Boulevard

·Make left onto I-287 southbound

·Take Exit 41B from I-287 southbound to I-80 westbound

The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for real-time travel information and for NJDOT news follow us on Twitter @NJDOT_info.

Letter to the Editor: Taxes and the business climate

Letters to the Editor
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Dear Editor:

As a small business owner and taxpayer in Morris County, I face two issues that are near and dear to many others in our county: taxes and the business climate. I believe that these issues are directly related and it is only by bringing business back that we can prevent Morris County residents from being taxed out of their homes.

As a business owner, I am proud that I am able to help my employees to put a roof over their children’s heads and food on their tables but it is also a great responsibility that cannot be taken lightly. Here in Morris County, like anywhere else in the world, business climates change. In this county, where large and small businesses alike have been leaving since the late 1980’s, the swings in the income or workload of any small business can be very substantial as the disposable income of patrons fluctuates. Whether you are in business as a florist, mechanic, doctor, cleaner, carwash, dentist, lawyer or anything else, when things get slow you must make tough decisions. You can take away bonuses people count on, cut salaries or resort to layoffs so that you remain profitable or you, as the business owner, can take little or nothing for yourself in order to avoid negatively impacting employees and their families. Since opening my business in 2004, I have always chosen to tighten my own belt in order to protect others when business slows down. This means that I am either depleting my savings or paying my own obligations late to protect my employees.

As a Morris County taxpayer, I, like the rest of you, am faced with Average annual taxes per resident are $10,077, earning us a spot among only nine counties in the entire nation- that’s right, the nation with average annual property taxes over $10,000. With taxes being so high and the penalties for paying late being so low, many people, myself included, whether they own a business, have kids in college, are doing major home improvements, have serious medical problems and a host of other reasons will choose to pay taxes late which amounts to a form of low interest loan. Unfortunately, there are those who will find themselves unable to make up the shortfall, whether on a fixed income, faced with job loss or otherwise.

We must restore economic prosperity in Morris County. We must bring businesses back to Morris County. We will restore viable economic opportunities for our young people, restore jobs for those who have lost them or are currently working at jobs far beneath their skill level, and ease the tax burden on the residents of Morris County.

This can be done and I have a plan which I have touched upon many times in speeches over the last few months. Given the opportunity to begin implementation of this plan, I believe that within the next few years, together, we can begin to restore the prosperity that has eroded from Morris County over the last 25 years.  I order to do this, I am asking for your vote on Tuesday, June 6.

Heather Darling
Candidate for Freeholder

 

 

PHHS Frosh Baseball team won Morris County Tournament Championship game

Frank L. Cahill
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PHHS Frosh Baseball team won Morris County Tournament Championship game

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Hills High School freshmen baseball team recently won the Morris County Tournament championship game against Delbarton 7-4 played at Patriot’s Stadium in Somerset County. The tournament honors Walt Stasiak, who coached freshmen baseball at Morris Knolls for 25 years.

Parsippany was the eleventh-seeded team and Delbarton was the top seeded team…which, by the way, was a very sweet victory! Sam D’Uva pitched the entire game, allowing four runs, three earned, on eight hits. He struck out two. Corey Katzenberger was 1 for 3 with a run and an RBI. JD Breslauer went 2 for 4 with a triple and a run. EJ Comerford was 2 for 4 with two runs and an RBI. Nick Russo was 1 for 3 with a double and an RBI.

The freshmen coaches are Mr. Brennan and Mr. Mann.

West Side Story coming to Mayo Performing Arts Center

Frank L. Cahill
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West Side Story coming to Mayo Performing Arts Center

MORRIS COUNTY — West Side Story, MPAC’s fifth spring production, takes the stage on Friday, June 2 through Sunday, June 4 for four performances. The production will feature a cast of over 40 young performers. Tickets are $20.00 to 25.00.

Since launching annual spring productions five years ago, MPAC Education Director and West Side Story Director Cathy Roy has selected shows that present bold challenges to her cast and crew. “We see so much youth talent at MPAC.  They were definitely ready to take on the challenge of West Side Story,” she said.

While the show originally debuted on Broadway in 1957, its subject matter resonates today, another reason Roy was drawn to the material. “We are hoping by telling this powerful story that we can remind our audiences about the power of love in a time of divide and tension in our society,” Roy said.

“People want to believe that we as a country have moved beyond racial discrimination, but it’s still a real issue,” added Christian Harvey (Action), 17, of Randolph, who is appearing in his fifth MPAC production.  “There are still people who are scared to show themselves and this show addresses that.”

For young performers, one of the main allures of MPAC’s spring productions is the ability to work with a professional director, choreographer, musical director, actors and backstage crew to truly get a taste of what it’s like to be part of a professional production.

“It’s incredible,” said Alessandra Le Pera (Maria), 19, of Florham Park, who attends Drew University. “It pushes me to work harder. I’m really finding that with that pushing and extra work, I am able to do things I didn’t think I could do before.”

In addition to its cast of over 40 youth performers, Roy cast two Equity guest artists in their mid-20s to portray Tony and Anita. The combination of the younger actors working with the slightly older professional performers gave everyone an opportunity to learn from and be inspired by each other.

“The cast is so energetic and full of love for theater,” said Scott McCreary (Tony), whose professional credits include the national tour of Dirty Dancing and NBC’s The Sing-Off. “It’s great to have this big group of people out on stage that has that type of energy.”

West Side Story’s Music Director Charles Santoro – a relative greybeard for this group at 25 years old – has observed that the younger performers have emulated how the professional actors prepare and rehearse. “When watching a professional performer at work, they pick up those small things that sometimes get overlooked,” he said.

“It really has been wonderful working alongside these young performers and being a role model for them,” adds Lauren Csete (Anita), who has also portrayed Anita in Paper Mill Playhouse’s production.  “When I was their age I wish I would have had this experience because I would have learned so much. All of the young actors are professional, talented, sweet and great to work with!

West Side Story is a complicated production, and Roy is using the original Jerome Robbins choreography (adapted by Jayme Wappel) that accompanies the music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. 

“Vocally, the performers need to stay with their natural sound while feeling comfortable with their meaning behind the music,” Santoro said. “If they don’t understand what they are singing about, then they cannot connect and be one with their character.”

Fortunately, much of the cast has honed those skills through classes at the MPAC Performing Arts School (PAS). Started in 2005, the MPAC PAS is a training ground for students of all abilities ages 5-18 in musical theatre, acting and voice in a nurturing and supportive environment. The PAS has over 25 afterschool and weekend classes per semester, as well as summer camps. Most recently, the school has added classes that use the concepts developed by the L.A.-based Miracle Project which use theater techniques to help children on the autism spectrum to find their voice through the performing arts.

“I feel like all of my hard work and dedication and commitment is finally paying off,” said Christian Harvey, who has taken PAS classes for several years and now also serves as a PAS teaching assistant and Miracle Project peer volunteer.  “In every production, Cathy Roy always reminds every single member of the cast, from the smallest part to the leading role, to be true to your character. She has a way of making the actors with the smallest roles feel crucial to the story that is being told. And she’s right!”

The cast has been working hard since February and is excited as the show readies its debut on June 2. “We have done a really great show here,” Csete says. “It’s incredibly riveting.” 

The cast and crew hope that people will enjoy what promises to be a performance full of power and passion. “It’s incredible that there are students in high school involved in a show at a theater that is so amazing. Professionals and students coming together to make art. It is art!”  La Pera said.

Adds McCreary, “West Side Story is my favorite show. The story is so beautifully written and Tony as a character does everything I’ve wanted to do on stage. I get to fall in love, I get to get married and I get to die all in one day!”

West Side Story will be performed at Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown on Friday, June 2 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, June 3 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, June 4 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $20.00 or $25.00. Order tickets online at MayoArts.Org or by calling the box office at (973) 539-8008.

To learn more about the MPAC Performing Arts School click here.

YMCA honors Karen DeChristopher with “Citizen of the Year Award”

Frank L. Cahill
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YMCA honors Karen DeChristopher with “Citizen of the Year Award”

PARSIPPANY — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA held its annual 2017 Annual Dinner and Awards Presentation on Wednesday, May 17 at the Knoll West Country Club.

The Parsippany High School Small Jazz Combo performed during the cocktail hour. The “Citizen of the Year” is presented to individuals in the YMCA service area who have provided outstanding volunteer service and leadership to improve the quality of life in each of their communities.

Parsippany resident Karen DeChristopher was named “Parsippany Citizen of the Year.”

Inspired by her life experiences, Karen has a long history of giving back. Her award nominator shared this, “Karen continuously offers her talents, knowledge, financial and emotional support to help make a difference in the lives of others.” Karen’s list of volunteer activities is seemingly endless:

A volunteer since 2006 with the Parsippany Office of Emergency Management, she is also a former graduate and presenter at the Parsippany Citizens Police Academy.

Karen spent countless hours helping victims and first responders after Hurricane Irene and Superstorm Sandy.

She also educates the Parsippany Boy Scouts on emergency and disaster preparedness.

She is extensively involved with Family Promise of Morris County, and actively mentors mothers and children on how to cope with life’s difficulties.

As a three-time cancer survivor, Karen is a tireless advocate for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and serves on the Event Leadership Committee as the Event Lead, Co-Chair.

As a member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Par­sippany, and currently serves as Vice President and is the Co-Director and the Chair of Young Children Priority One service projects, as well as being on numerous other club committees in many roles.

Karen is a member of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills, in addition to supporting and advocating for Prevent Child Abuse-NJ, Jersey Battered Women’s Services, Parsippany Food Pantry, and the Center for Hope Hospice.

Rosemary Linder Day, Sergeant Greg Bogert and Randy Smith

The 2017 Citizen of the Year for Riverdale is Sergeant Greg Bogert. In December 2010, Greg responded to a call at a Riverdale home with the report of an infant who wasn’t breathing. He successfully helped resuscitate the baby and received, at that time, a life-saving award and recognition. Fast forward to April 2016: Greg responded to a call regarding a possibly homicidal young man on the Route 287 bridge near Exit 53 in Riverdale. Greg knew the man was in distress, but also knew he had to take control of the situation. The man ran to the edge of the bridge as Greg approached him, but Greg was able to grab him before he leapt off the bridge. Thankful to save the individual, Greg was also thankful no motorist was struck. Since the incident, he has raised thousands of dollars for teen suicide awareness. An almost 20-year veteran of the Riverdale Police Department, Sergeant Greg Bogert has been widely praised for his heroics and providing us with service “above and beyond.” Those acco­lades are well deserved.

Sergeant Greg Bogert and Nicolas Limanov
Rosemary Linder Day, Sergeant Greg Bogert and Randy Smith

Other Citizens of the Year include:

Boonton: Carolyn Micheletti Dobies – Carolyn’s professional career spanned many decades in education in the Secaucus school system. Her love of children and passion for the arts has taken her down many paths. Our local community has benefitted from her extra time, because her passion has been channeled to the Boonton Area Cultural Arts, St.
Clare’s Harvest Festival, St. Catherine of Siena RC. Church, and the town of Boonton. Carolyn has done everything from transcribe children’s books into Braille, was an assistant at the Lake Drive School for the Deaf and Hearing Impaired, and still heads a parental program called Hugs and Hopes for terminally ill children. Carolyn has received a national Teacher of the Year award; now she can add the title of Boonton Citizen of the Year!

Boonton Township: Ron Quade – Ron has been involved with Boy Scouts for over a dozen years, and is an active Scout Leader for Troop 69. His goal is to educate and guide boys to become well-rounded individuals with great respect for others and their communities. Ron is a resident of Boonton Township where he is committed to serving its residents. He is a past member of the Boonton Township Environmental Committee and currently serves as vice chair of the Boonton Township Planning Board. Ron’s nominator for this award wrote, “Ron represents an eagerness to serve his community as a volunteer and his position within the Scouts has enabled him to serve as a role model for future generations.”

Denville: Thomas Dean -The consummate Denville volunteer, Tom is known to almost everyone in Denville. To quote Denville Mayor Tom Andes, “Tommy is involved with anything good and wholesome in Denville. He is one of the most generous guys in town.” Many know Tom as owner of Norman Dean Funeral Home, which he took over from his father. Many also know that Tom, a lifelong Denville resident, rarely says no. He is on the Denville P.R.I.D.E. Committee and annually organizes its National Day of Prayer. Tom is currently serving, or has been a member of Denville Lions Club, Denville Chamber of Commerce, St. Francis Residential Board of Directors, St. Francis Fall Festival, the Morris County Juvenile Council, Rockaway River cabinet, and Denville Rivers & Streams. The list continues: Denville Centennial Committee, PAL Olympics, Denville United Methodist Church. He is actively involved with Boy Scouts, and has helped create the newly-formed Denville Business Improvement District (BID).

Kinnelon: Scott Akin – Scott is one of our Citizens to establish a nonprofit organization to benefit a group of individuals in need of outreach services and support. The primary mission of Shelter our Soldiers is to build permanent housing for disabled veterans from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Scott recruits numerous individuals from all walks of life to advance this cause. He also works with the Kinnelon High School student outreach club to provide holiday gifts to almost 100 veterans who live in transitional housing on the grounds of the Lyons VA Hospital. Scott is also involved with the Do Good Student Support Group, which is dedicated to giving scholarships to deserving students who are in need of financial assistance. Its motto is, “Helping America’s Future, One Student at a Time.” Scott is on the front lines of creating change, for the benefit of all of us.

Lincoln Park: Lauren Curiotto – Lauren is the youngest of our 2017 class of Citizens, but her volunteer accomplishments are as extensive. She has been a mentor for the New York University Catherine B. Reynolds Program for Social Entrepreneur­ship “Changemaker Challenge” since 2012, and an instructor at the Entrepreneur School for Girls. The idea of”change the world” has inspired Lauren in many ways, making her the perfect candidate to create the nonprofit organization Finding the Fabulous right here in Lincoln Park. Its vision is to advance the next generation of strong female leaders and role models. Lauren has led the charge for girls aged 5-18 to choose confidence, compassion, and creativity in their journeys to overcome life’s challenges such as fear of failure and lack of purpose or self-esteem. As if Executive Director of Finding the Fabulous wasn’t enough, Lauren volunteers in several capacities at Lincoln Park Abundant Worship Center.

Montville: Mark and Anna Landgrebe – Everybody needs help sometimes. Those simple words turned into something much bigger than Mark and Anna ever thought possible. Spurred into action way back in 1992, M ark and Anna delivered food to the homeless in NYC during the holidays after learning about a similar program. Those holiday visits turned into regular Saturday night rituals, trying to help as many individuals as possible. On Saturday evenings, the Homeless Bus (yes, there really is a bus) leaves Montville and heads to NYC.  On board are volunteers who have dedicated themselves to providing food such as sandwiches, Cup of Noodles soups, hot chocolate, water, fresh fruit, and baked goods; travel-size toiletries and clothing are offered as well. With the networking among the homeless population, Mark and Anna have become familiar faces, and have forged close relationships. Mark and Anna have poured their heart and soul into helping the homeless, and the world is a better place for it.

Mountain Lakes: Thomas ”Mac” McEldujf- When “Mac” was nominated for this award, many reasons were given on why he is so deserving. However, the best reason was priceless: ‘We believe the selection of Mac would be met with great local enthusiasm. But there is one more reason why he would be a great choice: Because he would hate it!” There aren’t many “Lakers” who have volunteered for so long, for so many, in so many capacities. From coaching girl’s recreation lacrosse and soccer, to teaching Sunday school at Mountain Lakes Community Church, from volunteering with the Medical Needs Foundation to being a volunteer firefighter, Mac has proudly, but humbly, served his community. From Santa each Christmas at the tree lighting, to a Project Graduation coordinator, to substitute teacher, Mac has been there to help through it all; for young and old, through storms and hurricanes, his selflessness is unmatched, and for perhaps this once, he’ll let the spotlight shine down upon him so that we may honor him.

Pequannock: Russell Hall – Russ should be more accurately called the Morris County Citizen of the Year. His work on behalf of those less fortunate lead one colleague to state, “Russ is doing great things on behalf of all county residents.” His body of service includes trustee, Morris County Affordable Housing; member, Morris County Assistance Services; executive committee member, Morris County Continuum of Care; member, Morris County Fair Housing Committee. Russ continues to serve our community through Interfaith Food Pantry, Housing Alliance of Morris County, and the Housing Authority of Morris County. As with many individuals who humbly decline to accept awards, Russ had to be coerced by many to agree to be honored this evening. Most assuredly, by his long list of accomplishments and by helping so many, especially in finding the basic of services, shelter and food, Russ is a most deserving individual.

 

Parsippany wins the Education “Trifecta” at Lakeland Hills YMCA

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany wins the Education “Trifecta” at Lakeland Hills YMCA

PARSIPPANY — The Lakeland Hills YMCA honored three members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills School System at its Annual Dinner and Awards Presentation. Mrs. Joni Benos, Chief of Staff/Public Information Officer, called it the “Parsippany Education Trifecta.” This is the first time in the Y history both Educators of the Year and the William Kogen scholarship recipient are from Parsippany.

The first Parsippany honoree was Parsippany High School Senior Matthew Marinas. He was  presented with the William Kogen Community Service Award.

Brad Kogen with Matthew Marinas

Matthew is an active member of the Parsippany Rockaway Neck Volunteer First Aid Squad who plans to earn his EMT certification. Matthew has worked alongside healthcare providers and members of law enforcement, which has influenced his career choice of working in criminal justice. As a responder, Matthew has witnessed crime and drug abuse, and has cared for those ill and injured. He enjoys serving the public and is always ready to help those in need.

As a St. Barnabas Medical Center volunteer, he has had the opportunity to assist patients and staff in the Same Day Surgery Unit and the Emergency Department. One of his school volunteer activities are Peer Buddies, helping mentally challenged individuals feel accepted as they learn life skills and mainstream into society. Matthew has volunteered for food drives, service nights, and community outreach events. He is active with the youth ministry of St. Ann Church in Parsippany, including fundraisers, hospitality service, and as a confirmation retreat leader.

Matthew is also a math tutor and roller hockey coach, and his mantra is to always lead by example and serve as a positive influence to others. He feels these experiences have given him the ability to cope under stressful situations, increased his confidence, and taught him the value of teamwork. Matthew states, “I believe at this time more than ever, our society continues to be challenged with issues that threaten the public. It is my ambition to direct my passion toward improving and protecting the lives of others.

Matthew Marinas with his parents John and Marcella Marinas

Educator of the Year was presented to Ms. Katherine Casciol

Katherine has been teaching elementary school at Troy Hills School in Parsippany for twenty-one years. She was inspired to become an educator through the wisdom, support, guidance, encouragement, and unconditional love she herself received when a student all those years ago at Troy Hills School. It was Katherine’s childhood dream to teach at the same school she attended. It’s that same passion to become a teacher that Katherine imparts to her students. She not only understands her students but is respectful of them as well.

Vinnie Aniello, Ms. Katherine Cascioli, Ella Cistaro, Christina Cistaro, and Joe Cistaro

Katherine is ending her term as First Vice President of the Board of Directors of the ARC of Morris County. ARC is a nonprofit agency dedicated to the care, support, and advancement of people with intellectual and related developmental disabilities and their families. She will become President of the ARC of Morris County this month. This in itself makes Katherine a wonderful and compassionate educator. But what transpired last year changed her life and the lives of many. I could relate the story to you, but it is much more meaningful if I share the words from Katherine’s nominators for this award, Joe and Christina Cistaro.

These are their words: “Our family has had a very special relationship with Katherine since she taught our oldest daughter Ella, during the 2013-14 school year. Ella and Katherine connected early on, and formed a special friendship that continues today.” In August 2015, our youngest daughter Ashley was lucky enough to be placed in Katherine’s third-grade class. From the day Ashley found out who her teacher was going to be, she conceived her plan to infiltrate Katherine’s heart. Ashley knew about Katherine’s love of owls and pugs from her sister, so we spent many hours that summer canvassing stores for owl lunch boxes and pajamas, pug posters and cards. When the first day of school rolled around, Katherine and Ashley shared an instant connection. Beyond their shared love of owls and pugs, there was a deeper connection. Katherine understood Ashley as very few did. They both have such amazing hearts with so much love and acceptance to offer others. When we think about the purity and innocence of our sweet Ashley, we will always think of Katherine.

Ashley struggled in school, both academically and socially. Katherine went above and beyond each and every day to make her feel comfortable, while still accomplishing the task at hand. Whether it was standing in front of the class with Ashley to calm her nerves, strategically pairing her with partners who worked best with Ashley’s unique style, or holding Ashley’s hand so tight to calm her anxiety on a field trip. Katherine was always able to give our Ashley the love and support she needed to feel safe and comfortable at school.

March 2016 brought tragedy to our family when we lost Ashley extremely unexpectedly. Katherine’s support for our family after Ashley’s passing, continuing even now, has been unwavering. She has honored Ashley’s sparkly spirit and has continued to spread the love that Ashely had in her heart, but is no longer able to do so herself. We know firsthand what a wonderful teacher, mentor, and human being Katherine is. We can never repay the many teachers that have touched the lives of our children, and frankly, we feel inadequate by trying. We’re hoping that sharing what an amazing, life-changing teacher Katherine is, will be a step in the right direction.

Katherine shared her feelings with us, “When my precious hot pink and owl loving Ashely passed away, I promised myself that I would try each and every day to live in her likeness and teach the messages of the spirit she embodied. Everyone felt good when they were with Ashley because she accepted all people unconditionally. Learning wasn’t always easy for Ash, but she never gave up. Her message was clear: Even if you can’t find the words, let your actions speak the messages in your heart. I think all of us who teach love and acceptance, and practice love and acceptance, are teachers of the most important part of all of life’s lessons. I am honored and will forever cherish the opportunity to spread a lesson of love with all of you tonight…please pass it on.”

Dr. Denis Mulroony was also honored Educator of the Year

Dr. Mulroony is home grown in Parsippany. When Denis is not cheering on sports teams from Parsippany High School, participating in service nights at PHS, organizing trips to the Community Food Bank of NJ, or planning new and innovative events to promote school spirit, he is in the hallways and classrooms, interacting with students and personally getting to know them. The PHS Director of Guidance stated that Denis is the epitome of what everyone wishes their high school principal to be. The PHS Student Council President said that Denis brings a joy to PHS that inspires students and teachers to take a larger part in the community, especially with service events and outreach. She said, “He is always open to new ideas. This year a member of the student council had an idea to host a cross-town competition with high schools on both sides of town. Since then, he has worked tirelessly to make this event happen. On April 21, the very first Hills vs. High volleyball tournament was held, with donations to the charity Bianca’s Kids. It’s his determination, dedication, and will to help, support, and encourage the students that makes PHS so special.”

Vincent Aniello with Dr. Denis Mulroony

A member of the educational administration staff said, “I believe Dr. Mulroony is one of the finest people I have ever met in education. He is not just an excellent principal, he is a quality person, who shows an interest in all students.” Denis is passionate about making students feel good about school and giving them a voice. He believes educators should be role models to demonstrate enthusiasm, kindness, compassion, and devotion on a daily basis. And no, Denis, that is not a corny thing to say, because we know you really mean it!

Denis chose to be a teacher to pursue his love of reading, writing, and athletics and to work with teenagers, and we know how hard that is! From teaching, coaching, mentoring, and advising, from a teacher to assistant principal to principal, Denis has always maintained his passion for education and his compassion for his students. He is all about instilling learning and leadership, about celebrating successes as well as differences, and about helping teens become the best versions of themselves. We are proud tonight to celebrate Dr. Denis Mulroony and all he has done for his students, his school, and his community.

Dr. Robert Sutter, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Office of Human Resources, Board President Frank Neglia, Mrs. Joni Benos, Chief of Staff/Public Information Officer, Board Member Judy Mayer, Timothy Berrios and Joseph Cistaro

The Lakeland Hills YMCA also presented “Citizens of the Year Awards.” For complete story click here.

Prism Capital Partners Sells 339 Jefferson Road

Frank L. Cahill
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Prism Capital Partners Sells 339 Jefferson Road

PARSIPPANY — Prism Capital Partners has sold 339 Jefferson Road to Mane USA. A worldwide leader in the fragrance and flavor industry, the French company will relocate its U.S. headquarters to the Class A office property. The company currently is located at 60 Demarest Drive, Wayne.

Prism’s in-house construction team currently is fitting out Mane USA’s 70,000-square-foot space. The full-service commercial real estate owner/operator will continue as property manager for the fully occupied, 102,000-square-foot property, which also serves as home to Hollister Construction and Ascend Laboratories.

The sale brings Prism’s investment in 339 Jefferson full circle. The company purchased the asset, then known as Kingsbridge Corporate Center IV, in 2013 in a joint venture with a Boston investment firm. The partnership completed extensive capital improvements to reintroduce the former corporate headquarters property to the market as a multi-tenant opportunity in 2015.

The repositioning responded to changing tenant requirements within the Northern New Jersey office market. “The drive to do more in less space has resulted in a growing number of single-tenant properties being repurposing to accommodate multiple users with smaller requirements,” noted Edwin Cohen, a principal partner with Prism Capital Partners. “We recognized the potential for this type of repositioning at 339 Jefferson, and we focused on branding the property as a modern, amenity-rich Class A environment.”

The project included a complete overhaul of the building’s soaring, three-story atrium lobby and upgraded finishes throughout. Prism also incorporated enhanced building services including a fitness center and grab-and-go café. Situated on five acres, the granite-clad building offers underground parking in addition to surface lots. It is strategically located near the junction of I-80 and I-287, just minutes from the Parsippany Sheraton and Hyatt House hotels.

 “We created a workplace environment that provides a lifestyle and location to help organizations compete for talent,” Cohen noted. “Mane USA’s investment in 339 Jefferson, and the additional tenants that have leased there since the rebranding, speak to our success in doing just that. We look forward to continuing our involvement as property manager for the new ownership.”

Prism maintains a long-time presence in the local market; 339 Jefferson sits adjacent to the company’s 399 Jefferson Road, which is fully occupied by Zimmer-Biometand Pinnacle Foods. The Bloomfield based organization creates value through select real estate investments and developments. Geographically focused in the tri-state region of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, Prism specializes in identifying, acquiring and creating value-added opportunities in the office, retail, industrial and residential sectors.

 

Don’t Rain On My Parade as the Memorial Day Parade begins

Frank L. Cahill
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Don’t Rain On My Parade as the Memorial Day Parade begins

PARSIPPANY — As  Barbra Streisand said “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” and that is exactly what happen in Parsippany on Monday. The parade started at 12:00 Noon, and the rain ended.

East Hanover, Roxbury, Caldwell, Cedar Grove all cancelled their parades and Boonton moved their parade to 11:00 a.m. inside Town Hall, but Parsippany remembered the many who died in active military service. In previous years, Former Mayor Mimi Letts always said “The vets marched in the war, so we can march in the rain.”

The parade started at Katherine Drive along North Beverwcyk Road and ended at the Grand Stand located in front of the Rite Aid / Quick Chek shopping center. Distinguished township chiropractor, Dr. Phil Santiago, served as emcee and introduced each group as they approached the reviewing stand.

A large crowd gathered at the corner of North Beverwcyk Road and Lakeshore Drive being entertained by jugglers and other street performers until the parade arrived, led by the Parsippany High School Marching Band.

Rain couldn’t dampen spirits at Parsippany Memorial Day celebration

Frank L. Cahill
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Rain couldn’t dampen spirits at Parsippany Memorial Day celebration

PARSIPPANY — A drizzling rain and threatening skies couldn’t dampen the spirit of a crowd of around 50 people who gathered at Veterans Memorial Park Monday to mark Memorial Day with a solemn ceremony.

The ceremony began 10:00 a.m., in down pouring rain, was emceed this year by VFW and American Legion member, Councilman Michael DePierro.

Reverend Donald A. Bragg, Paster, Parsippany Presbyterian Church and Rabbi-Cantor Inna Serebro-Litvak of Temple Beth Am preformed the Invocation; the Boy and Girl Scouts lead in the Pledge of Allegiance; Emily Smith of Girl Scout Troop 95615 recited “This is Memorial Day”; the Honorable James R. Barberio, Mayor of the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills, welcomed everyone and Reverend Donald Bragg of the Presbyterian Church delivered the Benediction.

As customary, members of the VFW and American Legion, conducted a “Laying of the Wreaths” ceremony in front of the Veterans Memorial statue; the VFW Rifle Squad saluted and Taps was played by Anthony Paterno, of Boy Scout Troop 173.

The special guest and keynote speaker, Michael Fuller, former Naval Petty Officer Second Class, Operation Specialist and brother of Derek McConnell. Michelle Musolino-Roberts sang the “National Anthem” and “Amazing Grace”. The VFW and American Legion color guards participated in the ceremonies.

Veterans say today is all about remembering those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.

“It’s very important to keep them in our hearts and minds. And honor them with services like this,” Council Vice President Robert Peluso said.

VFW honors two servicemen at Lake Hiawatha ceremony

Frank L. Cahill
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VFW honors two servicemen at Lake Hiawatha ceremony

PARSIPPANY — A Memorial Day ceremony was held in Lake Hiawatha Park. The ceremony honored the two servicemen who lost their lives in Vietnam. The services were held by VFW Post 10184.

Bernard McElwee

The group honored our Lake Hiawatha sons who made the supreme sacrifice in Vietnam.

CWO John Peter Koob, United States Army, December 17, 1968 and PFC Donald Lee Wickline, Jr., United States Army, June 15, 1969 were both killed in action during the Vietnam War.

Others in attendance included Morris County Freeholder John Cesaro, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Councilman Michael dePierro and Councilman Louis Valori.

The memoriam in Lake Hiawatha Park
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Parsippany Focus is a digital news organization that provides news coverage of Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey. The organization was founded in 1989 by Frank Cahill, who currently owns and operates the organization. Parsippany Focus covers local news, events, and community issues, and their content is primarily distributed through their website and social media channels. The organization has been serving as a trusted source of news and information for the Parsippany-Troy Hills community for over 30 years.

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