PARSIPPANY — Video On The Go filmed the 2023 Teacher Staff Awards, Retirees, and 25 Years of Service.
Recognizing the hard work of educators is essential, and celebrating milestones such as retirements and 25 years of service makes these moments even more special. Being able to document these events ensures that they can be remembered and appreciated for years to come.
Ort Farms, a family-run business now in its sixth generation, operates a 400-acre farm and offers produce throughout the year. The farm also provides recreational activities for visitors.
MORRIS COUNTY — In a fruitful partnership, the Morris County Nutrition Program and Ort Farms have joined forces for a third consecutive year to ensure fresh produce reaches the senior residents of Butler Senior Housing and Jefferson Chase this summer. This farm-to-table initiative gives seniors the choice to order prepackaged fresh fruits and vegetables from the Long Valley-based farm, subsequently delivered by the Nutrition Program staff.
The federally-funded Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) plays a key role in making this possible, providing vouchers to eligible seniors. These vouchers can be exchanged for fresh produce from participating farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture.
The Morris County Division on Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming’s Nutrition Program manages the initiative in Morris County. Christine Hellyer, the division’s director, explained that while the SFMNP has been operational for many years, the farm-to-table initiative began in 2021 due to the pandemic limiting seniors’ mobility. The pilot program, in partnership with Ort Farms, was successful and continues with some enhancements introduced in 2023.
One of the improvements made in 2023 was digitizing the voucher system with QR codes on plastic cards attached to lanyards for seniors to wear at participating farmer’s markets. This change mitigates the risk of voucher loss. Moreover, the amount distributed to each individual in a household has increased from $30 to $50, which corresponds to two deliveries of produce worth $25 each.
This year, a total of 72 bags of produce will be delivered to seniors across two housing units. The first set of deliveries, which took place on July 18 and 19, were welcomed by seniors, who received an assortment of seasonal fruits and vegetables. A second delivery is planned for September.
To further encourage participation, each senior who registered for a produce bag also received an indoor sprout blossom kit. The kit, containing mixed herbs that can grow in sunlight and stick to windows and walls, came as a bonus with the produce.
Director Rhea Young, who personally delivers the bags with the help of a community service worker and two interns, stated, “We’ll keep delivering until the need is met.” For more details and income guidelines for the SFMNP, interested parties can visit the Official Website of Morris County.
Ort Farms, a family-run business now in its sixth generation, operates a 400-acre farm and offers produce throughout the year. The farm also provides recreational activities for visitors.
PARSIPPANY — The owner of Tawfig Halal Meat, Victor, welcomed a visit from the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee, accompanied by Video on the Go.
Tawfig Halal Meat is located at 88 North Beverwcyk Road, Lake Hiawatha.
In conjunction with Video on The Go Producer, Cinematographer, and Director Brian Satch, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill began working with local businesses within Parsippany to help publicize their business.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor said, “Parsippany businesses create job opportunities here in Parsippany. And add to the Township character. They also contribute to our charitable organizations. As Mayor of the Township Parsippany-Troy Hills, I ask you to #SHOP LOCAL, #SHOP PARSIPPANY.
The video will be aired on Public Access Channel 21 and included on the Township’s social media posts. In addition, Parsippany Focus will promote the videos as a free service to the Parsippany business community.
“In addition to working with the Administration on attracting new business to Parsippany, our committee is committed to working with current businesses and helping promote business within Parsippany,” said Cahill.
The service is free to any Parsippany business. Contact Frank Cahill at (973) 559-6000 for scheduling.
On a sunny afternoon at Veterans Park, Amalia Duarte, Chair of the Morris County Democratic Committee, Assembly candidate John Von Achen, Morris County Commissioner candidate Jonathan Sackett, Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Candidates Judy Hernandez, Matt Kavanagh, and Bernard Clarkin, Assembly candidate Walter Mielarczyk, and Morris County Clerk candidate Caroline O’Brien enthusiastically mingled with the diverse crowd.
PARSIPPANY — On a warm and sunny Sunday afternoon in Parsippany, the bustling Veteran Park became the vibrant setting for a lively picnic event that brought together the Democratic candidates and the local community. The aroma of freshly cooked empanadas filled the air, enticing participants and passersby to join the festivities.
Matt Clarkin served as the Master of Ceremonies (MC) during the gathering at Veterans Park.
Judy Hernandez, Bernard Clarkin, and Matt Kavanagh, the Democratic candidates running for Parsippany Council, eagerly mingled with the diverse crowd at the park. Excitement and camaraderie were palpable as people from different walks of life engaged in conversations and shared their hopes and aspirations for the community.
Amalia Duarte, Chair of the Morris County Democratic Committee, was seen holding a door hanger from the Hernandez, Kavanagh, Clarkin campaign while addressing the diverse crowd at Veterans Park.
Also joining were Jonathan Sackett for Morris County Commissioner; John Von Achen and Walter Mielarczyk for Assembly, Caroline O’Brien for Morris County Clerk and Amalia Duarte Chair of Morris County Democratic Committee.
The event’s main attraction, the empanadas, was a delightful conversation starter. Attendees flocked to the food truck, indulging in the mouthwatering variety of empanadas offered. As they savored the delicious treats, conversations flowed effortlessly, breaking down barriers and creating a sense of unity among all present.
John Von Achen, a candidate running for Assembly in Morris County, was also present at the gathering at Veterans Park.Jonathan Sackett, who is running for the position of Morris County Commissioner, was among the attendees at the event at Veterans Park.Caroline O’Brien, who is running for the position of Morris County Clerk, was also present at the Veterans Park gathering.
With her warm and approachable demeanor, Judy Hernandez connected effortlessly with the residents, listening attentively to their concerns and promising to advocate for their needs strongly. Matt Kavanagh, known for his passion for community development, discussed his vision for a more sustainable and inclusive Parsippany. Bernard Clarkin, a charismatic and experienced leader, shared his ideas on enhancing education and public services.
Judy Hernandez, a Parsippany-Troy Hills Council candidate, took the stage to address the audience during the gathering at Veterans Park.
“Hope is contagious. I want to communicate the hope that if every one of us is inspired to act collectively, we can positively impact our future,” said Hernandez.
Judy Hernandez, a respected community member with a strong service track record, was gearing up for a significant role in the town’s future. Having lived in Parsippany for 24 years, she had already left a positive impact through her involvement on the Parsippany Planning Board, the Environmental Advisory Committee, co-founder and co-leader of the Parsippany Green Team, and the board for the Parsippany Child Day Care Center. Her experience and dedication made her a formidable candidate for the upcoming council elections.
Bernard Clark, another candidate for the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council, was also part of the gathering at Veterans Park.
Another candidate, Bernard Clark, had deep roots in Parsippany, having called it home for 35 years. Although new to township politics, he possessed valuable expertise from running his small business for the past decade. As recognized by the election committee, his financial acumen and budgeting experience promised to be assets in managing the town’s affairs effectively.
Bernard Clarkin said, “Our team will win this council election! Win it by working harder and having a much better message than our opponents as we start knocking on doors in Parsippany this week. There will be no more massive 18% municipal tax increases or anything like that. I promise to bring my extensive financial background to the council to challenge the mayor and improve transparency. The green energy initiatives we will fight for will save the township money while improving our environment. I ask that you help us win by volunteering any time you can spare to help our campaign and get out the voters.”
Matt Kavanagh, a candidate for the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council, also addressed the crowd during the gathering at Veterans Park.
Lastly, Matt Kavanagh, with a decade-long residence in Parsippany, was eager to contribute his passion for sustainability and environmental consciousness to the council. He had already demonstrated leadership as the co-founder and co-leader of the Parsippany Green Team. He held a significant role as the chief operating officer of an energy services company. His experience in the energy sector made him an advocate for smart and eco-friendly policies, making him an appealing choice for voters concerned about the town’s future. Matt’s qualifications extended beyond his role as the co-leader of the Parsippany Green Team and chief operating officer of an energy services company. His experience includes managing large corporate budgets similar in scale to that of Parsippany’s municipal budget. This additional expertise positioned him well to address the financial complexities and challenges the town might face, gaining further support from voters who valued his comprehensive skill set.
“A sustainable community is environmentally conscious, but also diverse, resilient, responsible with resources, financially savvy, and plans for the long run. That is absent in our township government right now, so I’ll focus on this for Parsippany’s long-term future,” commented Matt.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Former Council Member Janice McCarthy and John Von Achen
Board President Choffo Sets the Record Straight on Lanidex Warehouse
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council voted unanimously to declare 30 and 20 Lanidex Plaza West “an area in need of redevelopment.”
30 Lanidex Plaza was constructed in 1987. The building is 56,230 square feet and is 100% vacant. The building stands three stories and is a Class B office space. A typical floor is 17,119 square feet. The property contains 200 surface parking spaces.
On May 1, 2023, there was a public hearing and the Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board concurred and agreed with the reasons in the Preliminary Investigation that the property constitutes and meets the criteria under the LRHL supporting the recommendations that the property be determined and declared a non-condemnation in need of redevelopment.
Since the Township Council approved Ordinance 2023:09, adopting 20-30 Lanidex Plaza West Redevelopment Plan, the matter will be heard at the Planning Board, once the development submits an application.
Public Records show that on April 16, 2019, the property was purchased for $4,700,000 and is owned by 20-30 LANIDEX LLC SIGNATURE ACQ.
The land was originally part of a dairy farm owned and operated by Rudolf Olsen. The property next to 30 Lanidex contains a protected National Register house, the Livingston House.
Mr. Olsen proposed selling the land to Lanidex West, which was a ROL zone. These zones were promoted to increase ratables, without impacting the surrounding residential area. Some of the conditions set forth were the congruent design of buildings and the use of landscaping to minimize impacts. An additional requirement was that these zones could not be subdivided into smaller parcels.
Julia Peterson’s parents, in an effort to preserve the Governor Livingston House, sold the acreage used for 10 Lanidex. It was their hope that this would allow the area to remain relatively in line with the historic nature of their home. The adjacent Eastlake School property was donated to the town by Julia’s grandmother.
30 Lanidex was developed in 1987. The second building, 20 Lanidex, was proposed but never developed. 30 Lanidex was leased to Solix Corporation and over $2 million dollars of renovations were added to the building approximately fifteen years ago. Solix had over 400 employees working in the building and was required to provide additional parking, thus the second (20 Lanidex) was never developed.
In the course of the pandemic, Solix relocated to 10 Lanidex West. However, the developer/owner has struggled to secure tenants for the 30 Lanidex property. As a result, 30 Lanidex is currently unoccupied.
PARSIPPANY — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Consumer Affairs announced settlements with 22 employment/personnel service firms operating as unregistered businesses in the state.
The firms – whose services run the gamut from executive-level employment placements to hourly labor assignments – agreed to the settlements to resolve the Division’s investigation into whether their failure to register with the Division’s Regulated Business Section, as required by law, violated New Jersey’s consumer protection laws and regulations.
Under the settlement terms contained in 22 Consent Orders filed by the Division, the firms have assessed a total of $62,000 in civil penalties ranging from $2,000 to $8,000 each.
“Firms doing business in New Jersey must comply with the laws in place to protect the public and ensure compliance with industry standards, and that begins with being properly registered,” said Attorney General Platkin.
Professional Search Network, LLP, 900 Lanidex Plaza, Suite 245, a consulting firm providing temporary help services, was one of the 22 firms and was not registered with the Division of Consumer Affairs.
As part of the settlement, Professional Search Network, LLP, does not engage in any unfair or deceptive acts or practices in the conduct of its business in the State of New Jersey and must comply with all state and federal laws, rules, and regulations. They were also ordered to register with the Division of Consumer Affairs within thirty days.
The settlement amount consisted of a civil penalty of $2,000 as well as $1,500 as a “Settlement Payment.”
The mission of the Division of Consumer Affairs, within the Department of Law and Public Safety, is to protect the public from fraud, deceit, misrepresentation, and professional misconduct in the sale of goods and services in New Jersey through education, advocacy, regulation, and enforcement. The Division pursues its mission through its 51 professional and occupational boards that oversee approximately 750,000 licensees in the state, its Regulated Business section that oversees 60,000 NJ registered businesses, as well as through its Office of Consumer Protection, Bureau of Securities, Charities Registration Section, Office of Weights and Measures, and Legalized Games of Chance section.
Consumers who believe they have been cheated or scammed by a business, or suspect any other form of consumer abuse, can file an online complaint with the State Division of Consumer Affairs by visiting its website or by calling 1-800-242-5846 to receive a complaint form by mail.
A complete list of companies that reached settlements with the Division are:
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Council Meeting – July 25, 2023.
Regular Township Council Meetings will commence at 7:00 p.m. All meetings will be held on Tuesday evenings. Council meetings are held at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. Formal action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for a meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request auxiliary aid.
Mayor James R. Barberio Council President Loretta Gragnani Council Vice-President Michael J. dePierro Councilman Paul Carifi Jr. Councilman Frank Neglia Councilman Justin Musella
PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, July 23, the Parsippany Interfaith Council organized an interfaith picnic amidst the serene and wooded grounds of the Parsippany Presbyterian Church. The event was made possible by a generous grant from the United Methodist Bishops, which aimed to promote inclusion and diversity. Over 75 individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Islamic, Jewish, Hindu, and Christian denominations, came together for this special occasion.
During the gathering, attendees could share and savor various ethnic foods, creating a delightful culinary experience celebrating cultural diversity. The event also facilitated bonding and interaction through fun-filled games and activities, helping people from different faiths mingle, engage, and forge new connections.
Fun-filled games and activities fostered bonds and connections among diverse faiths.A momentous first step towards understanding, harmony, and unity among communities.
Overall, the interfaith picnic was a resounding success, offering a platform for participants to learn about each other’s beliefs, values, and traditions. It was a wonderful and momentous occasion, marking the first of many events to promote understanding, harmony, and unity among the diverse communities.
PARSIPPANY — The owner and chef of Churrasco Grill, Juan “Jose” Perez, welcomed a visit from the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee, accompanied by Video on the Go.
Churrasco Grill is located at 137 North Beverwcyk Road, Lake Hiawatha.
To access Patrick Minutillo’s restaurant review, click here. Happy reading!
In conjunction with Video on The Go Producer, Cinematographer, and Director Brian Satch, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill began working with local businesses within Parsippany to help publicize their business.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor said, “Parsippany businesses create job opportunities here in Parsippany. And add to the Township character. They also contribute to our charitable organizations. As Mayor of the Township Parsippany-Troy Hills, I ask you to #SHOP LOCAL, #SHOP PARSIPPANY.
The video will be aired on Public Access Channel 21 and included on the Township’s social media posts. In addition, Parsippany Focus will promote the videos as a free service to the Parsippany business community.
“In addition to working with the Administration on attracting new business to Parsippany, our committee is committed to working with current businesses and helping promote business within Parsippany,” said Cahill.
The service is free to any Parsippany business. Contact Frank Cahill at (973) 559-6000 for scheduling.
MORRIS COUNTY — Total joint replacement is one of the most commonly performed elective surgical procedures in the United States. It is also becoming an increasingly popular outpatient procedure nationwide, including at Saint Clare’s Health in Denville.
Orthopedic surgeons and the Saint Clare’s Health medical staff are combining robotic technology with industry-leading knee implants to help surgeons personalize surgical procedures for their patients for better outcomes. This robotic system enables surgeons to use computer and software technology to control and move surgical instruments, allowing for greater precision and flexibility during procedures.
Data is collected before and during surgery to inform your surgeon of details related to your unique anatomy that may affect your implant fit. Using this data to make more informed decisions, your surgeon can plan and perform personalized surgery based on your needs.
“At Saint Clare’s Health, we offer the most advanced technology to our patients to ensure faster recovery and better outcomes. Our specially trained surgeons are excited to have this option available to offer to their patients,” stated Brian L. Ulery, Chief Executive Officer of Saint Clare’s Health. “Our patients can receive high-quality compassionate care right in their community.”
A precise knee implant fit is critical to the comfort and overall experience following total knee replacement surgery. Benefits can include less pain, reduced scarring, reduced blood loss, and shorter recovery time.
For more information on this robotic surgery, click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Do you want to learn more about what CCM offers? Then join CCM for an interactive information session led by a CCM Admissions counselor, followed by a campus tour on Thursday, July 27, and Thursday, August 3, at 3:30 p.m.
PARSIPPANY — Several vehicle break-in incidents occurred across different areas of Parsippany in the early hours of Sunday into Monday.
Six motor vehicles were broken into in the Hunting Ridge Complex (located at the corner of Route 46 and N. Beverwyck Road), Troy Hills Village Complex (located off of Route 46 West just West of Baldwin Road), and Sagamore Road (located off of Edwards Road).
During the same time frame, a vehicle was stolen from a residence on Sagamore Place. Shockingly, the vehicle had been left unlocked with the keys inside. However, the authorities recovered the stolen vehicle at the Red Roof Inn on Route 46 shortly after the incident.
It’s important to note that while locking your vehicle may not completely deter determined criminals, it is a crucial step you can take to contribute to crime prevention. Stay vigilant and secure your belongings.
PARSIPPANY — Diya Patel participated in The University of Scranton’s Donning of the Stole Ceremony. This annual event celebrates the achievements of the class of 2023, specifically those from underrepresented backgrounds who obtained their undergraduate and graduate degrees despite facing various barriers, especially students of color.
The ceremony, led by students and assisted by Jose Sanchez, the assistant director of the University’s Cultural Centers, was held on campus as part of Scranton’s commencement activities. It honored a diverse group of students, including those who received academic and leadership awards and those pursuing careers in medicine, therapy, counseling, accounting, business analysis, forensic chemistry, and nursing.
While at Scranton, Patel earned a Bachelor of Science in political science and criminal justice with a concentration in legal studies. She was an accomplished student, making the Dean’s List and serving as a class senator for Student Government. Additionally, she actively participated in various campus organizations, including the Pre-law Society, where she interned with the University’s Office of Community Relations. She also gained valuable experience as a communication intern for the City of Scranton Mayor’s Office and as a summer intern for the Law Offices of Edward J Cuccia. Patel was also recognized with the Team Soriano 2021 Fellowship.
The University of Scranton, located in Northeastern Pennsylvania, is a Jesuit institution.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, August 2023. (Click here for the complete magazine)
PARSIPPANY — Twenty-three projects in Morris County are set to benefit from $3.6 million in grants. These funds, part of an annual initiative, aim to rejuvenate and safeguard historic sites within the locality.
Including this grant disbursement, Morris County has awarded nearly $50 Million on preservation efforts at 122 historic locations since 2003, when awards were first issued for protecting historic sites through Morris County’s Preservation Trust Fund. The properties have benefited through 535 grants, with some properties receiving multiple grants over the years to conduct planning, acquisition, and construction projects.
“The staff and volunteers do a phenomenal job evaluating these applications and recommending how to invest our dollars. People often thank the Commissioners for the money. Still, it ultimately comes from the taxpayers, who always overwhelmingly support these programs, and, fortunately, they do,” stated Commissioner Stephen Shaw, liaison to the Historic Preservation Trust Fund Review Board.
Craftsman Farms received a $37,620 grant for Log End Restoration.
The Craftsman Farms Log House was built in 1911 to support the 650-acre property owned by Gustav Stickley, a United States Arts and Crafts movement leader.
The review board received 23 applications for consideration in 2023, nearly $5.9 million in grant requests. They were initially reviewed for their conformance to the U.S. Secretary of Interior’s “Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties,” which promote historic preservation best practices.
“These are very important federal guidelines set during the historic acts that have been passed since the 1960s, with antecedents going back even further than that. We want to be at the highest level with tax dollars,” said Larry Fast, Chair of the Review Board.
The review board conducted site visits to assess the properties for consideration. After a final presentation was made by the grant applicants, the review board deliberated on the funding recommendations. Twelve of the 23 projects received full funding requested for preservation purposes.
MORRIS COUNTY — The 200 Club of Morris County Organization’s Annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony… awarding 16 high school seniors of the First Responder Family. Morris County Public Safety Complex May 15, 2023
Councilman Justin Musella, Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Council President Loretta Gragnani, Council Vice President Michael dePierro and Councilman Frank Neglia
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting will be held on July 25, 2023.
Regular Township Council Meetings will commence at 7:00 p.m. All meetings will be held on Tuesday evenings. Council meetings are held at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. Formal action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for a meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request auxiliary aid.
Mayor James R. Barberio Council President Loretta Gragnani Council Vice-President Michael J. dePierro Councilman Paul Carifi Jr. Councilman Frank Neglia Councilman Justin Musella
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is committed to providing superior service to the residents. As part of this commitment, they must change the water meters periodically. They are starting in Lake Hiawatha, down to Edwards Road, Route 46, and across So. Beverwyck/Reynolds Avenue area to the Troy Road area. There is no cost to homeowners to have this work completed.
The new water meter will be installed by the contractor, National Metering Services, Inc. Your water meter is inside your home or in an outside vault. A National Metering Services representative must access this location to perform the required change.
Installation should take approximately 30 minutes. They ask that you clear the area around your meter before your scheduled appointment to prepare for the meter change. Call National Metering Services at 1-888-448-0009 to schedule an appointment, or click here and click on E-Appointments.
Pho Ninh Kieu (Vietnamese Noodle & Grill Restaurant) is located at 73 New Road, Parsippany; (973) 521-9900
PARSIPPANY — In January 2020, never anticipated three months later, in March 2020, an emergency declaration would cause the implementation of COVID shutdowns and the tremendous hardships that would create for the restaurant industry. Pham Hieu took a chance and acquired ownership of Pho Ninh Kieu, a previously established Vietnamese restaurant, as his first venture into Parsippany’s diverse culinary scene. Fortunately for Mr. Hieu and Parsippany, the restaurant struggled through those tough days and is now a fixture in the community.
The interior, with approximately 12 tables spaced comfortably throughout the dining area, establishes a cozy, casual, intimate, and warm atmosphere.
Pham Hieu, originally from South Viet Nam, arrived in America, along with his parents and siblings, several years ago. Armed with his enterprising spirit, his mother’s home recipes, and a desire to share his homeland’s cuisine, he renovated and redecorated the small eatery to create the ambiance and vibe specific to the cuisine. His mother’s recipe for Pho, where bone marrow is cooked for ten hours every day, is one of the highlight dishes of Pho Ninh Kieu.
Like so many wonderful little eateries in our area, Pho Ninh Kieu is tucked away alongside a row of other businesses in a small strip mall on New Road at the intersection of Route 46 West. Look for the bright, glass front exterior, with the large white and red signage announcing Pho’ Ninh Kieu, Vietnamese Noodle and Grill Restaurant.
Pork Chop and Shrimp Lemongrass with Bell Pepper
The interior, with approximately 12 tables spaced comfortably throughout the dining area, establishes a cozy, casual, intimate, and warm atmosphere. It is immaculately clean, comfortable, and well-designed. Pleasant ambient lighting from the large front windows, aesthetically pleasing laminated wooden tables, matching chairs accentuated with white brick façade walls over softwood paneling, a brick hostess counter, appealing, bright tile flooring, and of course, ethnic artwork, ceiling hangings, architecture, and artifacts all help to enhance a great dining experience. One standout focal point that attracts the eye is a beautiful, large painting of the province of Ninh Kieu, carefully placed along the center wall of the restaurant. Ninh Kieu is a waterfront district in Can Tho, in southern Vietnam, and was the home of the prior owner of Pho Ninh Kieu. When Pham Hieu saw the painting, he was so impressed that he retained the establishment’s name.
Fried Crispy Squid (Floured, Lightly Frede with Sweet and Sour Sauce)
The service was exceptional. On entry, our host/waiter, Kevin, the owner’s brother, was extremely friendly and welcoming. It immediately made our group feel at home. Menus, tableware, and water was brought expeditiously. As usual with this group, there was a lot of discussion and questions for our waiter, Kevin, who was happy to answer all our questions and seemed to enjoy talking with us. The restaurant was well-occupied, yet the service was quick, attentive, and professional throughout our meal. And don’t forget to bring your favorite beer or wine, as Pho Ninh Kieu is BYOB. For the occasion, I found a nice Saigon Lager Beer at Joe Canal’s Discount Liquor Outlet, a nearby liquor store.
When most people think of Vietnamese food, they think of Pho (pronounced “fuh”) and Bahn mi sandwiches. Great examples for sure, but there is much more to Viet Nam cuisine, which like most cultural foods, can be distinguished by the region of the country where it originated. Plus, with the influence of China and France during their colonization, Vietnamese cuisine became even more enriched and diversified. Besides the cuisine’s deliciousness, most Vietnamese food is harmonious, healthy, light to eat, colorful, and very diet friendly.
Eggrolls
The most well-known Vietnamese cuisine is pho (“fuh”), a hearty broth served with rice noodles and toppings that include bean sprouts, limes, fresh basil or cilantro, and peppers, which was my choice for this visit. Additional fresh herbs, bean sprouts, basil, peppers, and limes arrived as a side dish to the Pho so that you can customize your dish to your taste. I added everything to the broth and loved it. The key to a good pho (besides the 10-hour cooking time I mentioned earlier), I am told, is a perfectly spiced, highly aromatic, simmering broth with deep, intense flavor. The texture and bite of the fresh noodles and vegetables, which filled my generously sized bowl, were perfectly complemented by those fresh herbs, bean sprouts, limes, Thai basil, and peppers. My choice of the House Combo came with a combination of an eye of round, flank, brisket, beef ball, tendon, and tripe, which, when cooked in the Pho, completed this flavorful dish and was a delicious and delicate culinary delight. Of course, you can customize your dish with your choice of pork, beef, chicken, or a fish base, as well as the level of spiciness of your dish. As I’ve said many times, I prefer my food on the spicy side, so in this case, I added some hot pepper sauce, which is on the table, to kick it up a bit. You will find that the flavors of the broth deepen and intensify the further down you go in the bowl. This savory dish did pack a punch!
Pork Dumplings
For appetizers, the group shared some shrimp summer rolls, pork dumplings, pork and chicken eggrolls, fried crispy squid (floured, lightly fried, with sweet and sour sauce), and grilled lean pork banh mi (a short baguette with a thin, crisp crust and soft, airy texture). You won’t go wrong ordering any one of these; all savory and flavorful.
Grilled Lean Pork Banh Mi
Entrees included Pork Chop & Shrimp Lemongrass (lemongrass imparts a flavor of lemon with hints of ginger, with floral and minty notes) with Bell Pepper, Eye of Round & Tripe Pho, Beef Lemongrass with Bell Pepper, and my selection of the House Combo Pho dish. Tableware included quality chopsticks (wrapped), Asian soup spoons for your pho, hot pepper sauce, and Hoisin Sauce (a sweet and slightly salty dipping sauce). Remember, the pepper sauce is hot, and try not to go overboard with the Hoisin Sauce, as a little goes a long way.
Whether you are a long-time fan of Vietnamese cuisine or trying it out for the first time, I’m confident you will enjoy adding Pho Ninh Kieu to your culinary journey for a new and exciting dining adventure.
Beef Lemongrass with Bell Pepper
Relaxed, strip-mall nook offering pho & other Vietnamese sandwiches & entrees to eat in or take out.
MORRIS COUNTY — Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, representing New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District, has officially initiated the application process for students aspiring to be nominated for a U.S. military service academy in the upcoming year.
Encouraging students interested in military careers, Rep. Sherrill emphasized the tremendous value of attending these prestigious institutions. Having graduated from the Naval Academy herself, she understands the academic and physical challenges that lie ahead for future military leaders. These service academies provide a solid foundation for their future careers in the military.
Aspiring candidates from the 11th Congressional District can now apply for a service academy nomination, with the application window open until October 26.
High school seniors and college students within New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District have the opportunity to apply for nominations to the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Air Force Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The nomination application process is also available for college students seeking to transfer into one of these prestigious institutions. It’s important to note that students require a nomination to be appointed to attend these academies, except for the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, which does not require a Congressional nomination.
Due to the limited number of nominations available each year, the process is fiercely competitive. Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill can only offer a select number of nominations, making the competition even more challenging. Additionally, receiving a nomination does not guarantee an appointment to attend an academy, as only a fraction of nominated students are ultimately appointed. Aspiring candidates must showcase exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, and a strong commitment to serving their country to increase their chances of securing a coveted appointment.
Due to the high number of qualified applicants, the Congresswoman holds a competitive application process that considers the academic, athletic, and extracurricular activities and community involvement of candidates who apply. In addition, every candidate is interviewed by Rep. Sherrill’s Academy Nomination Board which consists of Academy alumni, military veterans, and civic leaders from the community.
Click here for more information and to complete an application.
Call Rep. Sherrill’s office at (973) 526-5668, or email the NJ-11 Academy Nomination Coordinator at willy.tolba@mail.house.gov.