Razorz Edge Barber Shop will be opening at 271 Parsippany Road
PARSIPPANY — Razorz Edge Barber Shop will soon be opening in Parsippany.
The new barbershop will be located at 271 Parsippany Road and be open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. They will occupy 800 square feet on the first floor of the premises.
Razorz Edge Barber Shop is a family-oriented business that provides numerous barbering services at affordable prices to its clients in the greater Morris County area.
Razorz Edge Barbershop has two other locations: Randolph and Jefferson.
Business owner Samantha Khoury established Razorz Edge Barbershop in Randolph after the success of her first barbershop location in Jefferson.
Utilizing her 17-plus years of experience in the barbering industry, Ms. Khoury strives to provide quality customer service and positive experiences for her clients. Her team of experienced barbers is dedicated to communicating with clients to leave them with positive experiences and customer satisfaction. Ms. Khoury prides herself on her and her staff’s ability to make their clients comfortable and feel relaxed when getting into the barber chair.
Razorz Edge Barber Shop offers a variety of barbering services such as haircutting and styling, infant and kid haircuts, shape-ups, hot shaves, straight shaves, beard shaping, trimming, and much more.
The former TD Bank on North Beverwyck Road was robbed in 2017. File Photo
PARSIPPANY — On August 9, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment gave the green light for the conversion of two empty bank buildings into Dunkin’ outlets, each equipped with a drive-thru.
The former TD Bank will be transformed into a Dunkin and a convenience store.
The first transformation will take place at the previous TD Bank location on 430 North Beverwyk Road. This branch, part of the Lake Hiawatha cluster, shut its doors on April 23, 2021, along with 81 other branches that year. In addition to Dunkin, the site will house a convenience store. The Dunkin’ is currently located at 450 North Beverwyck Road.
The current Dunkin will move into the former Santander Bank location at 239 Littleton Road
The second approval involves repurposing the old Santander Bank premises at 239 Littleton Road. This branch has since relocated to the Waterview Plaza Shopping Center. Interestingly, the existing Dunkin’ outlet within the plaza will migrate to the vacated bank space and will feature the added benefit of a drive-thru.
It’s worth noting that a similar nod was granted on June 21 for the transition of the former Santander Bank on 1980 Route 10 into a Dunkin’ with a drive-thru. This location will also have the capacity for 36 seats inside.
The surge in drive-thru interest can be attributed to the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic on the dining industry. The crisis witnessed a spike in drive-thru visits among many fast-food chains. As indoor dining faced restrictions, the allure of contactless, convenient drive-thru service grew in appeal to many patrons.
Moreover, to cater to this demand, there’s been a significant move towards technological advancements in drive-thrus. Features such as mobile ordering, touch-free payment methods, and seamless app integrations have increasingly become the norm.
Former Santander Bank was located at 1980 Route 10, Parsippany
In recent years, self-publishing has grown in popularity as a method for writers who want to reach a wide audience. Authors no longer have to depend on conventional publishing firms to get their works into consumers’ hands thanks to the development of digital platforms and print-on-demand services. Self-publishing has a lot of benefits, but it also has its own set of financial constraints, notably in terms of book sales, royalties, and taxation.
Understanding how book sales and royalties are calculated is one of the most important financial issues for writers who self-publish. Self-published writers have greater control over their income than authors who are published traditionally, who receive an advance and then receive royalties based on a percentage of book sales. They have more control over pricing and get a bigger cut of every transaction. They must, however, pay the whole cost of marketing and manufacturing as a result.
Self-published writers must carefully analyze their pricing plan in order to optimize their revenue. Too high of a price may discourage potential readers, while too low of a price may result in lower total sales. It’s crucial to find a balance between attracting readers and making money. In order to reach a larger audience and boost their book sales, writers can also investigate other distribution methods, such as internet merchants, physical bookshops, and direct sales through their own websites.
Self-published authors must also grasp how royalties are calculated once book sales begin to flow in. Typically, royalties are a portion of the book’s retail price or the net profit made from each sale. Nevertheless, the particular royalty rates may change based on the book’s format and distribution method (e.g., e-book, paperback, hardcover). To make sure they are being paid fairly for their work, authors must thoroughly check their publication agreements and comprehend the royalty schedules.
Yet self-financial publishing’s realities go beyond book sales and royalties. Self-published authors are effectively operating their own business, therefore they are in charge of handling their finances and submitting their taxes. For independent contractors, who frequently struggle to maximize their tax savings and properly file their taxes, this can be especially difficult.
Determining their tax liabilities as a single-member LLC is a typical problem that freelancers have. To safeguard their personal assets and gain from certain tax advantages, a lot of self-published writers opt to run as single-member limited liability companies (LLCs). The tax ramifications of this corporate structure, however, might be tricky to understand. Authors may need to utilize a single-member LLC tax calculator or get advice from a tax expert with expertise in self-employment taxes in order to precisely determine their tax due.
Understanding the distinction between being categorized as a W-2 employee vs a 1099 contractor is another crucial factor for self-published authors. As 1099 contractors, which is how most freelancers are categorized, they are liable for their own self-employment taxes, including Social Security and Medicare taxes. W-2 workers, on the other hand, have these taxes deducted from their salary by their employers. To effectively anticipate their tax liabilities and prevent any surprises during tax season, self-published writers must understand the tax consequences of each categorization. Authors can choose the categorization that is most favorable for their particular circumstance by using a 1099 vs. W-2 employee calculator.
Another significant component of the financial reality of self-publishing is self-employment taxes. Social Security and Medicare taxes, which are normally paid by both employers and workers in traditional employment arrangements, are included in self-employment taxes. Self-employed people must, however, cover the whole cost of these taxes on their own. The current self-employment tax rate is 15.3%, which has a considerable influence on an author’s total tax obligation.
Self-published writers can utilize a self-employment tax calculator to calculate their self-employment tax obligation. This calculator determines how much self-employment tax individuals owe by factoring in their net self-employment income. Authors may better prepare for their tax payments and prevent any fines or surprises when it comes time to file their taxes by understanding their self-employment tax requirements.
In conclusion, self-publishing gives authors a special chance to reach a larger audience and have more control over their income. Yet it also entails a unique set of financial realities, notably in relation to book sales, royalties, and taxes. Authors who self-publish must carefully analyze their pricing plan, comprehend the calculation of royalties, and understand the nuances of 1099 employee taxes. Authors may better manage their money and increase their profits in the self-publishing industry by remaining educated and using tools like single-member LLC tax calculators, 1099 vs W-2 employee calculators, and self-employment tax estimators.
The Mount Tabor Historical Society is set to host its annual House Tour this autumn. Slated for Saturday, September 30, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
PARSIPPANY — The Mount Tabor Historical Society is set to host its annual House Tour this autumn. Slated for Saturday, September 30, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., this rain-or-shine event promises attendees a memorable experience.
Participants will have the opportunity to delve into the heart of the Mount Tabor Historic District. As they traverse the district, they’ll be captivated by the vibrant Victorian gingerbread cottages and their enchanting gardens. After a three-year hiatus, the society is excited to reintroduce the interiors of these unique cottages to the tour, offering a glimpse into some of Mount Tabor’s most charming residences and gardens.
Encounter the rich heritage of the community by stepping inside a furnished replica Camp Meeting Tent and visiting the remarkable period interior of the Richardson History House, a camp meeting cottage museum. Inside the historic Tabernacle, you will find displayed a large and diverse quilt show.
Attendees are encouraged to explore the houses in any order and at their own pace during the event hours. The tour starts at the check-in desk on Simpson Avenue, where those with pre-purchased tickets can retrieve their guidebooks, complete with a self-navigation map. On-the-spot ticket and guidebook purchases are also available on the tour day.
A special treat awaits those who wish to pre-order box lunches online. They can opt for a ticket package that includes a boxed lunch and select their desired sandwich during the booking process.
Additionally, the tour showcases special features such as a meticulously crafted Camp Meeting Tent replica and the Richardson History House, which pays homage to the bygone era of camp meeting cottages. A quilt exhibition will be on display at the historic Tabernacle, and attendees shouldn’t miss the gift shop, stocked with treasured Mount Tabor memorabilia and vintage items.
For ticket reservations, one can click here, which leads directly to the society’s House Tour page.
With its foundation dating back to 1869, the Mount Tabor Historic District stands as a symbol of a Methodist Camp Meeting Ground that transitioned into a cherished summer haven. Distinctive in its architecture, early camp meeting residences showcase Stick-Style and Gothic Revival designs, complemented by prominent gables, inviting porches, and ornate gingerbread accents.
This tour represents a pivotal fundraising event for the Mount Tabor Historical Society. As a non-profit organization, they channel all event proceeds back into various community projects, encompassing beautification, education, preservation, and, most notably, the restoration of the Richardson History House.
MORRIS COUNTY — ArcMorris is now accepting registration and sponsorships for the grand return in October of its golf outing fundraiser in support of people with developmental disabilities and their families.
Eagerly anticipated by area golf enthusiasts and supporters of the organization, the ArcMorris Autumn Classic is scheduled to take place on Monday, October 23, at Basking Ridge Country Club.
Funds raised will go toward supporting programs and initiatives of ArcMorris. The format will feature a four-person scramble with awards going to 1st and 2nd place teams. Contests will include Longest Drive (Men’s and Women’s), Longest Golf Ball Launch, Closest to the Pins, On the Green, and a Hole-in-One contest that will offer a chance to win a 2024 luxury SUV. A continental breakfast, boxed lunch, cocktail hour, and buffet dinner will be included for all registrants. Giveaways, raffles, and a silent auction will also be available.
“Our outing is intended to be a significant event in our community, bringing together individuals and businesses who share our passion for promoting inclusion and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Salvador Moran, CEO and executive director of ArcMorris. “Our aim is not only to attract sponsors and golfers but also to create an unforgettable experience that will entice participants to return year after year.” ArcMorris also is seeking an honorary sponsor to become the namesake of this special occasion.
For information on registration and sponsorships, click here.
ArcMorris is the largest provider of services for people affected by intellectual and related developmental disabilities and their families in Morris County. Incorporated in 1953, the not-for-profit agency serves people with intellectual disabilities and their families through residential and day programs for adults; therapeutic recreation for all ages; a summer camp; and support and respite for families. More information about the organization, including how to get involved, can be found by clicking here.
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 August 8, 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
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County residents interested in serving on the County College of Morris (CCM) Board of Trustees are invited to send their resumes to a special trustee search committee of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners.
The search committee must receive resumes by September 1, 2023. The committee will review all of the applications and then submit recommendations to the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, who will make the appointments.
Morris County is seeking to fill three board seats for four-year terms, which terms shall begin on November 1, 2023.
The two sitting trustees must reapply by the September 1 deadline if they wish to be considered for reappointment.
To qualify for consideration by the search committee, a candidate must be a resident of Morris County for at least four years and may not hold a current elected office in Morris County or be an employee of Morris County government or CCM.
Applicants must be able to demonstrate independent judgment, distinction in their profession, knowledge of higher education, involvement in their community, and a firm commitment to serving the college. A candidate must be willing to commit at least 20-30 hours a month to his or her duties as a college trustee to be considered for appointment.
Duties of trustees include appointing, supporting, and evaluating the college president; clarifying and, if necessary, revising the college’s mission statement; ratifying long-term plans; approving the college’s educational program; ensuring fiscal viability and maintaining the college’s physical plant.
The CCM search committee requests a resume and a background statement from each applicant outlining why he or she wishes to serve as a trustee and what specific skills the applicant would bring to the board.
Applicants must send one copy of their resume and a brief background statement to the Office of the Morris County Counsel, County of Morris, P.O. Box 900, Morristown, N.J. 07963-0900.
The County College of Morris Board of Trustees is composed of eleven Morris County residents from business, education, law, and other professional fields who volunteer their services in four-year terms.
By statute, eight members are appointed by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, and two members are appointed by the Governor. The Morris County Superintendent of Schools is also a member of the Board by statute. One non-voting CCM graduate member is elected for a one-year term by each year’s graduating class. In addition, the CCM President serves as an ex-officio member.
The Board of Trustees sets policy and has final authority over budgets and expenditures, and the President is responsible for internal administrative operations.
MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey State Department of Corrections (NJDOC), through its Office of County Services, conducted an inspection of the Morris County Correctional Facility. The authority to perform the inspection is granted by N.J.S.A. 30:1-15.
The review was conducted to determine compliance with the requirements of N.J.A.C. 10A:31, the “Manual of Standards for New Jersey Adult County Correctional Facilities.” Standards include mandates regulating Security and Control, Sanitation, Food Service, Emergencies, Protective Custody, Inmate Classification, the Inmate Work Program, Medical, Dental, and Health Services, and more.
As a result of this inspection, the Morris County Correctional Facility was found to be in full compliance with the requirements of N.J.A.C. 1OA:31. A resounding congratulations is to be shared with the entire staff of the Morris County Correctional Facility on this achievement. All are to be commended for the efforts made in preparation for this inspection and their conduct during the inspection process.
The inspectors reported during their review of the facility they found the staff was most helpful and cooperative throughout the entire inspection. Every inspector was treated in a respectful and professional manner. Sheriff James M. Gannon said, “I am so proud of our Bureau of Corrections employees. They walk the toughest beat in Morris County and always treat those incarcerated with the utmost dignity and respect.
The results of our inspection reinforce the ever-present commitment to the care of others and professionalism that exists at the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.” The correctional facility, operated under the Sheriff’s Bureau of Corrections, is also accredited by the American Correctional Association (ACA), as well as the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC).
Where’s the Pride in Parsippany when the Green Hills Plaza on Parsippany Road remains a disgraceful eyesore? It’s bad enough half the stores that were destroyed in a fire 18 months ago remain boarded up, but the deeply rutted parking lot is not only difficult to drive on but dangerous to walk on. Nothing to be proud of here.
If anything is in the works to address any of this, they are taking their sweet time. I noticed that the awnings above the burnt-out stores were replaced, but that’s a laughable repair at this point. Hopefully, no one will fall in the parking lot. A lawsuit will be more expensive than paving.
Parsippany Hills High School Boys Wrestling Team put down their mats and picked up sponges and buckets for a day of fun, splashes, and community engagement
PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, August 5, the spirited wrestlers of the Parsippany Hills High School Boys Wrestling Team put down their mats and picked up sponges and buckets for a day of fun, splashes, and community engagement. They are thrilled to announce that their car wash fundraiser was a tremendous success!
Every penny raised during this event will directly support the team. These funds play a pivotal role in offsetting the various costs that are integral to their season. This includes:
Celebrating their achievements and creating lasting memories is a tradition they hold dear. The funds will go towards making sure the end-of-season event is as memorable as every match they’ve had.
Every penny raised during this event will directly support the team. These funds play a pivotal role in offsetting the various costs that are integral to their season.
We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stopped by, whether you got your car washed or just came to show support. Your generosity ensures the team continues to thrive and achieve its very best. We look forward to seeing you on the mat.
The team would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stopped by, whether you got your car washed or just came to show support.
PARSIPPANY — Said Shamsudin, State Farm Insurance Agent, welcomed a visit from the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee, accompanied by Video on the Go.
Said Shamsudin, State Farm Insurance Agent, is at 342 Parsippany Road.
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.
FLORHAM PARK — The 200 Club of Morris County is hosting its second annual First Responder Day on Saturday, September 23, from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Emmett Park. This event brings first responders and their families together with members of surrounding communities for a day of friendly competitions among first responder departments.
Most people meet first responders on one of the worst days of their life. This is a chance to connect with them in a relaxed manner and get a better appreciation for who they are and what they do. Everyone is invited for a day of fun. There is an opportunity to cheer on the dedicated women and men serving as firefighters, police officers, OEM personnel, and EMTs in communities throughout Morris County.
There will be many competitions including corn hole and home run derby championships, and a closest-to-the-pin golf challenge. There will be fun-filled activities for kids of all ages. Everyone should come hungry and enjoy summer picnic fare and entertainment by local bands. Admission is free.
“It takes a special person to run toward danger at a moment’s notice. It requires compassion for others and highly specialized training. These are the people we depend upon and trust to keep our families safe,” says Dr. Robert D’Emidio, President of The 200 of Morris County. “First Responder Day is another way for our Club and local communities to show their support, by treating these incredible women and men to something special… a day to get outside, relax, and make some happy memories with their families and fellow first responders.”
The 200 Club of Morris County is in its 52nd year of standing behind our “Local Heroes.” Learn how you can show your support not only for this event but for the thousands of public safety officers protecting and serving your Morris County communities each and every day.
For more information contact, Dr. Robert D’Emidio at (201) 919-2536 or click here to sign up.
PARSIPPANY — The Mount Tabor Library is set to officially re-open its doors to the public on Tuesday, August 8, marking the end of a period of discussion and negotiation between the library community and Township officials.
A new lease agreement, recently signed by the Township, has paved the way for the reopening, bringing joy to local readers and community members.
Operating five days a week, the library’s schedule will be as follows:
Tuesdays: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Wednesdays: 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Thursdays: 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Fridays: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
You can also find extra copies of Parsippany Focus Magazine at the Mt. Tabor Library.
The re-opening of the Mount Tabor Library stands as a testament to the value of community collaboration and the vital role that libraries play in fostering education, connection, and growth. Whether you are an avid reader, a student, or simply looking to explore, the Mount Tabor Library’s doors are open once again for you to discover and enjoy.
MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy has announced the official New Jersey State Funeral and Memorial Service for the late Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver. The service will take place at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark on Saturday, August 12, and the public is warmly invited to attend.
In a solemn tribute, Oliver will lie in state in the Rotunda of the State Capital on Thursday, August 10, and at the Essex County Courthouse on Friday, August 11. A full honor guard will accompany her during these times, as announced by Murphy.
“Together, we will honor and celebrate her remarkable contributions to the state she loved,” Murphy stated, reflecting on Oliver’s dedication to her community and the people of New Jersey.
In further tribute, Governor Murphy has ordered that both the American and New Jersey flags be flown at half-mast for the next month in memory of Oliver.
Born and raised in Newark, and later residing in East Orange, Oliver left a significant mark on New Jersey’s political landscape. Before serving as Garden State’s second lieutenant governor, she made history as the first Black woman to serve as Speaker of the General Assembly.
A statement from Oliver’s family captured the sentiments of many: “[Sheila] was not only a distinguished public servant but also our cherished daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and hero. Sheila Y. Oliver leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service, and inspiration. We will remember her commitment to the people of New Jersey and her tireless efforts to uplift the community.”
Oliver’s funeral and lying in state provide an opportunity for the public to pay respects and reflect on the life of a woman who dedicated herself to public service, breaking barriers, and inspiring others. Her legacy is sure to be remembered and cherished by those she touched through her years of service.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Clerk, Ann Grossi, Esq., has revealed plans for a Passport Outreach Event scheduled for Tuesday, October 17. The event will be held from 9 am to 2:00 p.m. at the Rockaway Township Municipal Building, located at 65 Mount Hope Road.
If you plan to attend, make sure to have the following items with you:
Evidence of Citizenship: This could be a passport or a certified birth certificate.
Photograph: One 2×2 color photo with a white or light background.
Identification: A valid driver’s license.
Payment Information:
Please note that cash will not be accepted at the event. You may pay using a personal check, bank check, or money order.
Fees:
Adults (16 and older): $130 check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State, plus a $35 check or money order payable to the Morris County Clerk.
Children (15 and under): $100 check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State, plus a $35 check or money order payable to the Morris County Clerk.
Expedited Fee: If you need expedited processing, there is a $60 fee per application, plus $19.53 for a 1-2 day return delivery service.
Please allow approximately 15 minutes to fill out the application and an additional 15 minutes for it to be processed.
For any more information, you can visit the clerk’s website by clicking here or contact them by phone at (973) 285-6161. Make sure to take advantage of this opportunity if you need passport services!
Legislation sponsored by Sen. Joe Pennacchio that would grant municipal authorities greater flexibility to provide rate reductions to qualified senior citizens was approved today by the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee.
MORRIS COUNTY — Both chambers of lawmakers have unanimously approved StayNJ, a program designed to significantly reduce property tax bills for seniors in New Jersey. However, there are lingering doubts about the program’s survival until the awards start being distributed in 2026.
StayNJ is targeted at New Jersey homeowners aged 65 and above, offering them tax credits that could cover up to half of their property tax bills, with a cap of $6,500. This applies as long as the homeowner’s annual income does not exceed $500,000.
Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin (D-Middlesex), the mind behind the program, stated, “We have heard from seniors across the state on this issue. We know what a difference this will make for families making difficult decisions. We owe it to our seniors and to their families to ease those burdens.” Governor Phil Murphy put his signature on the bill Friday evening.
The cap on the awards will be adjusted in line with property tax bills, and the program’s estimated cost stands at $1.3 billion when payouts begin in the first quarter of 2026.
However, some advocates and Republican officials have raised concerns about whether these awards will ever be realized. Specific provisions in the bill halt payments if the state fails to meet its commitments regarding school aid, pension payments, or two tax deduction programs designed for seniors and military veterans. Moreover, StayNJ payments will be obstructed if the state is unable to make them while maintaining a surplus equivalent to 12% of annual spending.
Certain Republicans argue that these conditions, combined with a recent dip in New Jersey’s revenue, virtually ensure that StayNJ payments will never be made. Others criticize the $500,000 income cap, suggesting that it directs aid toward residents who don’t require assistance with property taxes.
Assemblyman Brian Bergen (R-Morris) commented, “We have seniors in the state of New Jersey today, who under the provisions of this bill can make $450,000 a year and still get $6,500 back in property tax relief. That $6,500 doesn’t come from a phantom fund. It comes from the money that we take from all the other taxpayers in the state of New Jersey.”
Bergen and Assemblyman Kevin Rooney (R-Bergen) were the only two who voted against the bill in either chamber. A proposed amendment by Bergen that would have lowered the income cap to $200,000 was also rejected by the Assembly.
MORRIS COUNTY — Banking industry veteran and Morris Plains resident Daniel Sharabba has joined Unity Bank as senior vice president and senior retail officer.
Sharabba is responsible for the development and execution of the community bank’s branch banking operations.
“We are excited to welcome Daniel to the Unity Bank family,” said James A. Hughes, Unity Bank president and chief executive officer. “Daniel brings great banking experience to the team and has an impressive background growing both business and consumer relationships. We look forward to his continued success with Unity.”
Unity Bank will be opening soon in Lake Hiawatha.
Sharabba previously served as regional manager and vice president with Citizens Bank, overseeing 17 retail locations, across five counties in Northern and Central New Jersey. Prior to that, he was with J.P. Morgan Chase, serving as private client branch manager, vice president, financial advisor, and office manager.
Sharabba is an Advisory Board member of nourish.NJ, a food bank based in Morristown, and the New Jersey Devils not-for-profit organization.
He and his wife, Emily, have two children, Macie and Leo.
Sharabba has a bachelor’s degree in corporate finance from Montclair State University.
PARSIPPANY — In November, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Board of Education election will be a highly contested race, as 12 candidates are vying for the three open seats. The deadline for candidates to file petitions to run for school board seats in the November general election in New Jersey was Monday, July 31.
This year, there are three three-year seats available: Timothy Berrios; Matthew DeVitto, and Debbie Orme (not seeking reelection). Berrios stepped down in May since his daughter became an employee of the school district. Kendra Von Achen temporarily filled his seat until an election is held.
The candidates who filed for these seats are:
Matthew DeVitto (seeking re-election)
Kendra Von Achen
Balakrishna “Bala” Samaga
Nilesh Bagdai
Falgun Bakhtarwala
Cassandra Cogan
Wendy Wright
Nicole Dellafave
Lily Benavides
Deitria Smith-Snead
Timothy P. Berrios
Andrew Choffo
Qualifications for candidates include:
Be able to read and write
Hold citizenship and one year’s residency in the school district
Have no interest in any contract with, or claim against, the board
Not hold office as mayor or member of the municipal governing body
Be registered to vote in the district and not be disqualified as a voter under N.J.S.A. 19:4-1
With such a diverse pool of candidates, the election promises to be an engaging and important event for the local community. Voters will have the opportunity to choose representatives who will contribute to the betterment of the education system in Parsippany-Troy Hills Township.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Schools consists of 14 schools, grades K-12 with a student enrollment of 7,153 students. The student-to-teacher ratio is 11:0.
One of the previous Table of Hope Backpack Giveaways held at County College of Morris.
MORRIS COUNTY — As parents start to plan for a new school year, Table of Hope once again is helping to make things easier with a free backpack distribution event at the County College of Morris (CCM).
The Backpack Giveaway at CCM takes place Friday, August 18, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Parking Lot 1 on CCM’s campus at 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. Visitors are asked to use CCM’s Center Grove Road entrance.
CCM has hosted numerous events with Table of Hope to assist those in need. This latest distribution event will provide backpacks filled with school supplies, consisting of pencils, rulers, glue sticks, notebooks, and more.
First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Kelly Sandler, and Prosecutor Robert Carroll.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood have elevated Kelly Sandler to the position of Supervising Assistant Prosecutor, and Tara Wang to the role of Senior Assistant Prosecutor within the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
A formal ceremony was held on August 1, 2023, in the Commissioner’s Public Meeting Room.
Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Sandler will supervise the Domestic Violence Unit and Firearms Returns within the Family Division.
First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Senior Assistant Prosecutor Tara Wang, and Prosecutor Robert Carroll.
Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Sandler joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in 2016 as an Assistant Prosecutor in the Major Crimes Unit and the Arson/Environmental Crimes Unit. Since the resumption of trials in the last 2 years during and post-covid, SAP Sandler has successfully tried three jury trials as lead counsel, specifically State v. Kelvin Briggs, which resulted in a conviction for sexual assault, endangering and invasion of privacy and a 24-year NJSP sentence; State v. Andrew Pena, which resulted in a conviction for Corrupting a Jury and Obstruction and a 5-year NJSP sentence and State v. Shonette St. Clair who was found guilty by a jury on June 7, 2023, of two counts of second degree Arson and related charges. SAP Sandler also assisted Sr. AP Tara Wang in trying Edwin Urbina for murdering a 3-year-old boy resulting in a life sentence.
Immediately prior to the pandemic shutdown, SAP Sandler traveled with members of the Major Crimes Unit to California during the investigation of State v. Laureano-Gonzalez, a homicide defendant who had fled New Jersey to avoid prosecution, which ultimately ended with his plea of guilty in May 2020. She also recently effectively argued for an 18-year sentence in the homicide prosecution of Edilson Trejo, who killed an acquaintance in front of a child. SAP Sandler has received past commendations for her work on an Environmental Crimes prosecution for State v. Roberto Benitez, a case involving a violation of the Freshwater Wetlands Protection Act, which resulted in a $10,000 fine; and the successful Sex Crimes prosecution of State v. Kelvin Briggs.
Prior to joining the MCPO, SAP Sandler worked as an Assistant Prosecutor for eight years in the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office where she served primarily in the Special Victim’s Unit and the Trial Team. While there she was the Human Trafficking liaison to the Attorney General’s Office. She successfully prosecuted the first case charged in the State under the revised Human Trafficking statute, resulting in a sentence of 20 years in New Jersey State Prison with 20 years of parole ineligibility in State v. Charles Torres, Sr.
SAP Sandler also represents the MCPO as the liaison to the Attorney General’s Environmental Crimes Task Force and the New Jersey Northern Region Child Fatality Review Board. She is currently the co-Chair of the Women Lawyers Section of the Morris County Bar Association. Prior to joining the MCPO, SAP Sandler clerked for Presiding Criminal Judge Scott Moynihan in Union County. She holds a Juris Doctor from Rutgers University School of Law – Newark and a Bachelor of Arts from Boston University.
Senior Assistant Prosecutor Wang will continue to be assigned to the Major Crimes and Arson Units within the Tactical Division.
Sr. AP Wang started with the MCPO as a legal intern in 2010 and 2011. She later worked briefly for a civil defense firm and clerked for Civil Judge David H. Ironson in Morris County, before formally joining the MCPO in 2014 as an Assistant Prosecutor. While assigned to the General Investigations Unit, where she successfully tried State v. Jamal Nurse, involving the armed robbery of a Babies-R-Us in East Hanover where the defendant received a 12-year prison sentence; and State v. Casey Powers, involving a burglary of firearms from a residence in Mount Olive which resulted in a 15-year prison sentence.
In 2018, Sr. AP Wang was transferred to the Major Crimes and Arson & Environment Crimes Units, where she has been involved in a number of notable cases, including the trial of defendant John Formisano, an Acting Newark Police Lieutenant who was convicted of murdering his estranged wife and attempting to murder her boyfriend in Jefferson. Earlier this year, Sr. AP Wang brought to trial the case of State v. Edwin Urbina, who was ultimately convicted of murdering a three-year-old boy in East Hanover. The defendant, in that case, received a sentence of life without parole plus 20 years.
Sr. AP Wang has completed several noteworthy trainings while a member of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, including the Division of Criminal Justice’s Basic Course for Arson Investigators and Top Gun here in New Jersey, as well as the National Computer Forensics Institute’s Digital Evidence in Court for Prosecutor’s Program in Hoover, Alabama.
Sr. AP Wang earned her Juris Doctorate from Wake Forest University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Bryn Mawr College.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “I am proud to promote these accomplished prosecutors. Kelly and Tara have each distinguished themselves in the courtroom and amongst their colleagues. I anticipate many more successful investigations and trials in cases they are involved in.”
Dear Editor:
