Councilman Justin Musella, Council Vice President Michael dePierro, Mayor James Barberio, Cathryn, Council President Loretta Gragnani and Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr.
PARSIPPANY — To earn her “Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge,” Cathryn Smith, a member of BSA Troop 72 and a student at Central Middle School, participated in a recent Parsippany-Troy Hills Council meeting.
One of the requirements in earning the “Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge” is to attend a meeting of your city, town, or county council or school board; Or attend a municipal, county, or state court session; then Choose one of the issues discussed at the meeting where a difference of opinions was expressed, and explain to your counselor why you agree with one opinion more than you do another one.
Click here to download the agenda for the special meeting.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment 2023 Members and Term Dates
Robert Iracane Chairman 12/31/26
Dave Kaplan Vice-Chair 12/31/23
Bernard Berkowitz Member 12/31/24
Scott Joskowitz Member 12/31/25
Nancy Snyder Member 12/31/23
Sridath Reddy Member 12/31/26
Davey Willans Member 12/31/24
Casey Parikh Alt. No. 1 12/31/23
Chris Mazzarella Alt. No. 2 12/31/23
John Chadwick, Planner, John T. Chadwick IV P.P.
Chas Holloway, Engineer, GPI
Peter King, Attorney, King Moench Hirniak & Collins, LLP
Nora O. Jolie, Board Secretary
Agenda subject to change without notice Although the information on this site is believed to be reliable, online postings of meeting agendas are not considered official copies.
Parsippany Hills High School IPLE Class of 2023 hosted their highly anticipated annual debates
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Hills High School IPLE Class of 2023 hosted their highly anticipated annual debates beginning on Tuesday, April 25.
This year’s candidates from the Matrix party (the liberal side) and the Munch party (the conservative side) debated relevant local and federal issues. The topics that the candidates debated include rescinding all financial support from Ukraine, prohibiting homeschooling in New Jersey, increasing the U.S. nuclear arsenal, banning smartphones on Parsippany school campuses, banning capital punishment, banning mandatory pledge of allegiance, mandating the sale of electric cars, and prohibiting transgender athletes in New Jersey schools.
The PHHS Seniors, who were part of these parties, had been working hard for months preparing for the series of debates and campaigning in school classrooms. Leading up to the event, the school’s walls were filled with propaganda from each side, attempting to persuade students and staff to vote. The hour-long debates were held twice daily from Tuesday through Friday of last week in the auditorium. Each debate was packed with hundreds of students eager to watch the candidates politically battle each other. After each candidate delivered their speech, the crowd could fire questions at both sides. Many of the audience members attempted to challenge and stump the speakers.
Some of the highlights of the debates included when candidate Vincent Paglucci asked the audience to stand up and recite the pledge of allegiance and when multiple members of the Munch party brought ‘munchkins on stage and ate them.
The advisor, and the teacher who runs this special program, Adam Pavese, shared what he thought of this year’s debates, “Ms. Hestevold and I were very impressed with the debates this year. The general student body only sees the debates, which is the highlight of the election, but I enjoy the work behind the scenes the most. The class takes countless work hours to pull off the debates and elections. We look forward to next year and hope they go as smoothly as this year.“
Students raise their hands to ask speakers a question
Elections took place a few days ago, and the entire student body cast their ballots. Just recently, on May 3, the outcome of the elections was announced in the morning. Here are the winning candidates, the position they ran for, their stance, and their party:
Isabella Brison for President: Rescinding all Financial Support From Ukraine- Matrix party
Christopher Stearns Senate: Against Federal Ban on Capital Punishment- Munch party
Hunter Tam Nguyen House of Reps.- Against Increasing U.S Nuclear Arsenal-Matrix party
Tyler Lutkowski- Governor- Against Mandate on Electric Cars- Munch party
Rebecca Steere- State Senate- Allowing Homeschooling in NJ- Munch party
Alex Hockwitt- State assembly- Prohibiting Transgender Athletes From Competing in Preferred Gender- Munch party
Vincent Paglucci- County commissioner- Anti Banning Pledge In Schools- Munch party
Ridhi Rohatagi- Board of Education- Keep Smartphones in PTHSD Schools- Matrix party
Overall, this year’s debates were definitely memorable, and the students are already looking forward to the next debates. Congratulations to all the candidates who won and to both parties!
Superintendent of Schools Barbara Sargent. Photo by Toron Photography
PARSIPPANY — Barbara Sargent has been appointed as the new superintendent of the grades 9-12 West Morris Regional High School District Board of Education, effective August 1. Sargent is currently serving as the superintendent of the grades K-12 Parsippany-Troy Hills School District, a position she has held since 2017. The West Morris Regional student population was 2,289 as of 2020–21.
She will be succeeding Michael Ban-David, leaving after eight years to assume a similar role at Tenafly. Sargent’s five-year contract will begin with a yearly salary of $260,000.
In a press release by the West Morris district, the board expressed its appreciation for attracting an accomplished educator like Barbara Sargent. The board attributed this success to the district’s outstanding reputation, especially concerning its teachers, and the long-standing commitment of the communities to quality education.
As the superintendent of the largest regional district in Morris County, Parsippany-Troy Hills School District, Sargent oversaw numerous improvements during her tenure, including introducing an elementary strings instruction program and adding more Advanced Placement classes, and an increase in opportunities for teacher leadership.
Barbara Sargent began her career as a superintendent in Readington Township, Hunterdon County, in 2011. While there, she spearheaded strategic planning initiatives for three elementary schools to implement full-day kindergarten, Mandarin language instruction, online coursework for students, and Green Ribbon recognition in environmental and sustainable practices.
Before becoming a superintendent, Sargent served as an assistant superintendent in the Madison school district and a principal of Village School and Orchard Hills School in Montgomery Township for six years. She received the New Jersey Principal of the Year award from the State Department of Education in 2003.
Sargent earned her bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University in 1986 and pursued a master’s in Reading/Language Arts from Rider University in 1992. In 1997, she completed her doctoral degree in Educational Administration from Seton Hall University.
In addition to her administrative roles, Sargent has taught courses in school leadership, curriculum, and research as an adjunct professor for Seton Hall University, Drew University, and Ramapo College.
The West Morris Regional High School District is a public school district that provides high school education to students from several Morris County communities, including Chester Borough, Chester Township, Mendham Borough, Mendham Township, and Washington Township.
Guests at the Parsippany United Methodist Church's annual Roast Beef fundraiser will be treated to a buffet-style dinner, where they could pile their plates high with the church's celebrated Roast Beef, mouth-watering Cole Slaw, fluffy Mashed Potatoes, flavorful Gravy, crisp Vegetables, and delectable homemade desserts.
PARSIPPANY — On May 6, Parsippany United Methodist Church held its annual Roast Beef fundraiser, where attendees could indulge in a buffet-style dinner of the church’s renowned Roast Beef, delicious Cole Slaw, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Vegetables, and a large assortment of homemade desserts.
Parsippany residents Judy Hernandez and Joanne Rich enjoying the roast beef dinner at United Methodist Church.
The Parsippany United Methodist Church (PUMC) congregation was founded in 1830. A parcel of land was given by a wealthy member of the Presbyterian Church with the idea that the servants of the wealthy should have their own church. Our roots are humble.
At the event, customers were served by triplets Madilynn, Abi, and Nicole, who are all ten years old and currently attend Littleton Elementary School. The talented trio offered freshly made drinks to attendees.Steve Blake, Bill Gripp, Justin Cogan, and Tracy Booth were working in the kitchen, preparing the delicious dinner for the event.Laurie Wilken, Lonnie Wallace, Michele Chaffee, Rev. Marissa van der Valk, Renee Luongo, Carolyn Dipsey, Paul Adams, and Jahn Schnetzer took charge of serving the scrumptious food to the guests.Connie Keller and Denise White skillfully served a wide variety of desserts to the attendees.
In 1962, our original church building on Route 46 was torn down to make room for Highway 287. The congregation worshipped in local schools and met in members’ homes until, in 1964, an education building and fellowship hall were built at 903 South Beverwyck Road.
For years the congregation dreamed of a new, dedicated sanctuary. The congregation worshipped in the fellowship hall for church dinners and play productions. For forty years, the congregation forged an identity based on the quality of love found in our fellowship and worship. People were drawn to the congregation, not for the edifice — the school-like building was not much to look at –- but rather by the spirit of compassion, inclusion, humor, and artistic creativity.
In 1989, the congregation’s growth made it possible to plan for actively constructing a new worship space. Together we engaged in an extended process of envisioning, fundraising, and planning for a new sanctuary that — with its simple and open design — was in keeping with the spirit of our congregation. Construction began in November of 2001 amid the national grief of 9/11. As we witnessed people spontaneously flock to communal sacred spaces seeking contact with the holy, it seemed timely to be building the sanctuary as an expression of the peace and presence of God in unsettling times.
Construction began in November of 2001, amid the national grief of 9/11. As we witnessed people spontaneously flock to communal holy spaces seeking contact with the holy, it seemed timely to be building the sanctuary as an expression of the peace and presence of God in unsettling times.
Six months into construction, amid the typical frustrations and setbacks that are a part of this process, Henry “Hank” Heitschel, the building committee chairperson, suddenly died. Shortly thereafter, his wife Myra also died. When finally the new sanctuary was dedicated six months later, in December of 2002, the joy we felt was mixed with sadness that this much-beloved couple who had been so instrumental in sustaining our dream of the new sanctuary for forty years was not with us to share in the celebration.
Parsippany Hills High School Kiwanis Key Club members participated in Relay for Life: Aaron Nathan, Shreeji Patel, Vritika Kilarv, Harini Talluri, Tanvi Nekivikauti, Anushka Kamisetti, Pableen Kaur and meghana Metta
PARSIPPANY — The Relay For Life of Morris County is dedicated to raising money for cancer research and was held at Parsippany Hills High School, 20 Rita Drive, on Saturday, June 6. As of press time, the event raised $11,795.79. The two top teams raised Cerullo Strong at $4,666 and Answer for Cancer at #3,947. The top three participants are Hannah Cerullo, $2,116; Ella Manoff, $1,132 and Douglas Gabel, $1,089.
PHHS Junior Thomas Ruppert, 17 and Judy Hernandez. Ruppert is part of PHHS Green TeamDee dePierro, Parsippany Hills High School Key Club Advisor Kristine Bushong, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President Michael dePierro
The Relay for Life is a noncompetitive walk event to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society’s fight against cancer.
Adam Kandil, Councilman Frank Neglia, Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Council Vice President Michael dePierro, Mayor James Barberio, Karen DeChristopher, and Councilman Justin Musella.
The day and night will be filled with music from a DJ and guest entertainers—many activities, including Contests, Corn Hole, and Flag Football.
Themed Laps scattered throughout the event, including Water Balloon Lap, Three-legged Lap,
Dan Cassidy and Three-time cancer survivor Karen DeChristopher
Egg & Spoon Lap, Freeze-Dance Lap, Skipping Lap, Partner Lap, Cupid Shuffle Lap, Speed Walk Lap, and Backwards Lap.
Survivors walk around the track.
There are three central themes to every Relay for Life Event – Celebrate, Remember, and Fight Back. The celebration portion includes a dinner for cancer Survivors and their CareGivers. The remembrance portion includes a moving Luminaria Ceremony in which friends and loved ones lost to cancer are remembered. The event is a way of fighting against cancer by raising funds for Research. The American Cancer Society funds research for all types of cancer. 93% of all money raised goes to continuing research efforts.
By supporting Relay For Life, you help the American Cancer Society save lives, and that helps us move closer to our ultimate goal of a world with less cancer and more birthdays.
Gary Martin and Danny Desai, candidates for Parsippany-Troy Hills Township, were joined by approximately 75 supporters at a fundraiser held on Thursday, May 4.
During the fundraiser, Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Candidate Danny Desai addressed the audience.
PARSIPPANY — Gary Martin and Danny Desai, candidates for Parsippany-Troy Hills Township, were joined by approximately 75 supporters at a fundraiser on Thursday, May 4, held at Rishta Banquet Hall, 269 Littleton Road.
Danny Desai and Gary Martin are dedicated to serving all communities with trustworthiness and fearlessness, and they will work to improve the quality of life for the residents of Parsippany.
Desai said, “I am a successful business owner. I know how to micromanagement. I know how to spend our taxpayer’s dollars efficiently; transparently and fiscally responsible governance will lead to a brighter future. We can’t sustain ourselves if we keep on increasing taxes on our residents. There has to be accountability and responsibility from each and every department. Parsippany is a beautiful place to raise a family.”
“It is important to consider the impact of taxes on our senior population, as continuously increasing tax burdens may lead to their displacement from the town. We should prioritize our seniors’ well-being and ensure they are not facing unnecessary financial hardship that would force them to relocate,” said Martin.
Gary Martin and Danny Desai are in Column 3 in the June primary.
On Thursday, May 4th, Gary Martin and Danny Desai, both candidates for the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township, held a fundraiser that was attended by around 75 supporters.Shardul Kothare, Vamshi, Casey Parikh, Umesh Desai and Davey WillansDanny Desai, Gary Martin, Raj Dichpally, Santosh Peddi, and Nikhil Patel
During the grand reopening celebration of ShopRite Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Loretta Gragnani is holding the scissors for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
PARSIPPANY — The local family-owned grocery store, ShopRite, recently completed a large-scale renovation of its Parsippany store on Route 46, celebrated with an official re-opening ceremony last weekend. Customers can enjoy the new interior decor, an expanded produce section, a completely remodeled store, and a range of new services and amenities.
“Congratulations to Dara Sblendorio and the ShopRite family. You have been a fixture of Parsippany for many years and have given back so much to the community,” said Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio.
Mayor James Barberio of Parsippany-Troy Hills cuts the ribbon at the re-grand opening celebration.
“Congratulations to Dara Sblendorio and the ShopRite family. You have been a fixture of Parsippany for many years and have given back so much to the community,” said Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio.
Produce Manager Kieth is showing off the fresh produce to Mayor James Barberio.
To celebrate the grand reopening, ShopRite organized a series of special store tastings and Sunrise Kitchens product tastings.
Sunrise ShopRite, a family-owned business run by the Gladstein family, who have been in the grocery business for four generations, recently completed a large-scale renovation of its ShopRite store on Route 46 in Parsippany.
Council Vice President Michael dePierro, Dara Sblendorio, and Ned Gladstein
The family joined the Wakefern cooperative in 1951 and opened ShopRite stores. Ned Gladstein was named president in 1982 and serves as an advisor and chief financial officer. His daughter, Dara Sblendorio, was elected president in 2017, and her husband, Frank, manages the ShopRite of Parsippany.
ShopRite offers various flowers, including popular options like roses, daisies, carnations, seasonal blooms, and special arrangements.
Customers will find new interior decor, an expanded produce section, a new Wines and Spirits entrance, and an expanded Sunrise Kitchens section offering more store-made entrees, sides, and ready-to-eat, ready-to-heat, and ready-to-cook items.
Dara Sblendorio and Ned Gladstein, owners of ShopRite, were presented with a plaque by Frank Cahill, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman, in recognition of the store’s re-grand opening. The plaque also expressed gratitude for ShopRite’s contributions to local organizations.ShopRite has expanded its selection of fresh produce, offering its customers a wider variety of fruits and vegetables. The expansion is part of the store’s commitment to providing high-quality and locally sourced produce and catering to customers’ evolving dietary needs and preferences.ShopRite now offers an extensive selection of cheeses worldwide, providing customers with diverse options. The store’s cheese selection includes well-known and specialty varieties, such as cheddar, brie, and gouda, sourced from different regions across the globe. This expansion is part of ShopRite’s efforts to provide customers with diverse, high-quality products that meet their culinary preferences and needs.ShopRite now offers a range of hot Chinese selections, providing customers with a convenient and delicious option for lunch or dinner. The store’s Chinese selection includes popular dishes such as General Tso’s chicken, lo mein, fried rice, and dumplings, prepared fresh and ready to eat. This expansion is part of ShopRite’s commitment to offering a diverse range of ready-to-eat options that cater to customers’ tastes and preferences.
The store, located at 808 Route 46 in the Arlington Plaza, is open daily from 7:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.
Sunrise ShopRite operates another location at 540 Passaic Avenue in West Caldwell. The West Caldwell location offers a range of high-quality products and services, including fresh produce, meats, seafood, bakery items, and prepared foods. With its convenient location and diverse product offerings, the West Caldwell ShopRite is a popular shopping destination for customers in the area.
My name is Hank Heller, and I have been a resident of Parsippany for over five decades. As a member of this community, I care deeply about the well-being of my fellow citizens and taxpayers. I request your support in the upcoming Republican Primary election on June 6, 2023, to become your Republican County Committeeman.
Parsippany has great potential, but we can do better for our citizens and taxpayers. As a member of the Republican Committee, I will work to push our Party’s agenda and nominate candidates who share my values of integrity, fairness, and ethics. I promise to stand firm against political cronyism and “going along to get along.” You can count on me to be a strong and clear voice for doing what is right for the people of Parsippany. My opponent Robert Peluso is a perennial candidate who has run for office numerous times. Mr. Peluso lost his race for Mayor in 2017, Mayor in 2021 and is not only seeking to represent you on the Republican County Committee but also to represent you in the General Assembly of the State of New Jersey. According to Peluso’s election filing reports, he plans to run for County Commissioner in 2024 and Mayor again in 2025.
My background speaks to my commitment to public service and my effectiveness in leadership roles. As a former Senior Vice President for Chemical Bank and a self-employed small businessman for over 30 years, I have received numerous awards and recognitions for my work. I have served on the executive boards of the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce and The Bronx Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. Additionally, I have been recognized by the Woodbridge Chamber of Commerce as “Small Businessman of the Year,” and I have been listed in Who’s Who in Business & Finance and Who’s Who in The East. My past involvement with Parsippany High School’s Board of Education and its students demonstrates my dedication to serving the community.
If elected, I will not seek higher office or be appointed to special positions with “benefits.” My only allegiance will be to the taxpayers of Parsippany. I urge you, your family and your neighbors in District 25 to vote for me and to come out and vote your conscience on June 6th. Together, we can make a difference for the people of Parsippany.
Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, AP Jeffrey Conrad, AP Donald E. Gual, Daniel H. Malik, AP Tracey Gleason, and First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally confirmed the hiring of Jeffrey Conrad, Tracey Gleason, Donald E. Gual, Daniel H. Malik, and N. Christine Lopez as Assistant Prosecutors for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
Four assistant prosecutors were officially sworn in on May 1, 2023, and a hiring ceremony was also held for AP Lopez on May 3, 2023.
Assistant Prosecutor Conrad is assigned to the Domestic Violence Unit within the Family Division.
AP Daniel H. Malik, AP Donald E. Gual, AP Tracey Gleason, AP Jeffrey Conrad, and Prosecutor Robert Carroll.
Before joining the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, AP Conrad served as a Deputy Attorney General with the New Jersey Department of Law & Public Safety Office of Public Integrity & Accountability, prosecuting crimes involving official misconduct, police excessive use of force, and other violations of the public trust. AP Conrad worked as a Law Clerk at the Superior Court Monmouth Vicinage from 2013 until 2014. He served as an Assistant Prosecutor for the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office between 2014 through 2022, assigned to the Special Victims Unit, Adult Trial Section, Juvenile Unit, and Special Remand Unit. AP Conrad earned his Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Delaware and his Juris Doctor from George Washington University.
Assistant Prosecutor Gleason is assigned to the Major Crimes and Arson/Environmental Crimes Units within the Tactical Division.
AP Gleason began her legal career as a Law Clerk for a private law practice in 1989 and became an Associate Attorney in 1992 at a different law firm. In 1994, AP Gleason became an Assistant State’s Attorney for the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office in Chicago, Illinois, where she handled jury trials and worked on investigations related to large-scale narcotics distributions, violent crime, home invasions, and sexual assault, as well as organizing community policing efforts and drafting legislation concerning registration time limits on convicted sex offenders. She later joined the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office in Arizona as a Deputy County Attorney in 2015. As a DCA, she was assigned to the Family Violence Bureau. She specialized in prosecuting medical child abuse, handled numerous jury trials, and trained local prosecutors and law enforcement on domestic violence issues. AP Gleason earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Occidental College and her Juris Doctor from Pepperdine University School of Law. Assistant Prosecutor Gual is assigned to the General Investigations Unit within the Courts & Administration Division.
AP Gual most recently served as an Associate Attorney for a private legal practice in Pennsylvania, joining the firm in 2018. He represented criminal defendants and clients in civil matters in various legal proceedings. AP Gual began his legal career as a Certified Legal Intern for the Monroe County District Attorney in 2014 before becoming a Judicial Law Clerk for the Monroe County Court of Common Pleas for the Hon. Stephen M. Higgins. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Montclair State University and his Juris Doctor from Widener Commonwealth Law School.
Assistant Prosecutor Malik is assigned to the Pretrial Services/Diversion/Firearms Regulations Units within the Courts & Administration Division.
AP Malik joined the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office as a Legal Extern for the Homicide Task Force in 2019, later working as a Legal Intern for the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Appellate Unit. In 2021, he became a Judicial Law Clerk at the Superior Court of New Jersey Criminal Division for the Hon. Marysol Rosero. He later joined the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office as an Assistant Prosecutor, where he prosecuted a wide range of disorderly persons and violent indictable offense cases. AP Malik earned his Bachelor of Arts degree at Kean University and his Juris Doctor at Seton Hall University School of Law.
Assistant Prosecutor Lopez is assigned to the Financial Crimes Unit within the Specialized Crimes Division.
AP Lopez most recently served as an Assistant Prosecutor at the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, having been assigned to the Appellate, Juvenile, Pre-Trial Detention, Trial Team, PTI/Divisionary Programs, Special Offenders Unit, First Appearances/CJP, ERPOs, PDC, and Grand Jury divisions. Between 2015 and 2016, she worked as a Law Clerk for the Hon. Presiding Judge Margaret Goodzeit of the Chancery Division and a Student Attorney for the Seton Hall Center for Social Justice Civil Litigation Clinic. She served as a Legal Intern for the Kings County District Attorney’s Office, the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General Board of Public Utilities Unit, the New Jersey Institute of Technology, and the State of New Jersey Division of Rate Counsel. AP Lopez earned her Bachelor of Arts from Rutgers University, Master of Arts from the University of North Carolina, and Juris Doctor from the Seton Hall School of Law.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “We are fortunate at the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office to bring aboard so many new Assistant Prosecutors with impressive resumes. I trust they will be assets to our legal team.”
Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Assistant Prosecutor N. Christine Lopez, and First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood.
PARSIPPANY — Main Street Medical Providers had a successful opening on Thursday, May 4, with notable figures from the community present to welcome its founder, Dr. Chakilam. The clinic offers primary care services and accepts patients for both in-office and virtual appointments, which provides convenience and flexibility for patients seeking medical care. “It’s great to see new healthcare options available to the community. Dr. Chakilam will serve its patients well,” said Frank Cahill, Chairman Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development.
“I am thrilled to see Main Street Medical Providers open its doors in our community,” said Parsippany Mayor James R. Barberio. “Dr. Chakilam’s commitment to providing personalized care to each patient is a testament to the kind of healthcare provider we need in our community.”
Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill presents a plaque to Dr. Chakilam, congratulating Main Street Medical Providers and thanking them for choosing Parsippany.
In attendance at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the grand opening were Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Council Vice President Michael dePierro, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert, and a large number of family and friends.
The primary care clinic at 1236 Route 46 now accepts patients for both in-office and virtual appointments.
Dr. Chakilam, a board-certified internist, graduated in 2016 from Howard University Hospital in Washington, DC. She is known for her compassionate care and dedication to personalized treatment for each patient. Dr. Chakilam is committed to providing high-quality medical care to the community of Parsippany. “I am excited to be here and open up Main Street Medical Providers,” said Dr. Chakilam. “I believe that every patient deserves personalized care, and that is what we are committed to providing here at our clinic.” The clinic offers various medical services, including routine check-ups, chronic illness management, and vaccinations. With the addition of virtual appointments, patients will have the flexibility to receive care from the comfort of their own homes.
The Main Street Medical Providers clinic is open Monday through Saturday, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Patients can call (973) 335-1850 to schedule an appointment or visit the clinic’s website by clicking here to book a virtual appointment.
With this clinic’s opening, the Parsippany community can now access quality medical care close to home.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township held a Council Agenda Meeting and a Budget Hearing on May 2, 2023.
Council meetings are held at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. Formal action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings.
Click here to download the agenda.
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
Agenda subject to change without notice Although the information on this site is believed to be reliable, online postings of meeting agendas are not considered official copies.
PARSIPPANY — Mayor James R. Barberio and the Township Council invite the public to a special budget meeting on May 9 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. to discuss the 2023 Annual Municipal Budget. The departments attending the meeting will be Planning, Zoning, Construction; Recreation; Water; Sewer, and the Knoll.
Formal action may or may not be taken, and any other action reasonably related thereto may also be taken.
The budget process is about maximizing opportunities to be transparent with public funds and to encourage members of the public to be involved in the process so that they are fully informed about the municipal budget. The budget process works best when it involves the Township and the community residents engaging in dialogue to communicate their ideas about the process.
The Special Budget Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard.
The final vote and potential adoption will occur right after the official Budget Hearing at the Tuesday, May 16 Council Meeting.
MORRIS COUNTY — Students in the CyberSecurity Club at County College of Morris (CCM) earlier this month participated in the JerseyCTF cyber competition held at NJIT, placing in the Top 7 Percent of 481 teams.
The CCM team comprised four students, Nancy Bradley of Randolph, Derrek Keyes of Roxbury, Rohan Sharma of Parsippany, and Kevin Vargas of Randolph. During the competition, they completed challenging cybersecurity puzzles using their knowledge of web development, cryptography, and forensics skills. The team finished in 30th place. Faculty advisors for the club are IT Professors Colleen Carmeli and Dawn Rywalt.
The CyberSecurity Club meets weekly and is open to all major students. CCM is the first community college in the state to be designated as a Center of Academic Excellence for Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency, a designation it has held since 2017.
According to the Center for Academic Excellence (CAE) website (Click here), “An educational institution designated a Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity has met the rigorous requirements outlined by the program’s sponsor, the National Security Agency (NSA). Designated institutions commit to producing high-quality cybersecurity professionals to safeguard the U.S. national infrastructure.”
To learn about the programs the Department of Information Technologies at CCM offers, click here.
PARSIPPANY — Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills strives to provide you with the highest quality water and the best possible service. To this end, we have awarded DeMaio Electrical Co., Inc. a contract to construct a replacement well and treatment facility in the wooded area at the end of Noble Street.
Construction is scheduled to begin on or about Monday, May 1, and is expected to last one year. All work will normally be performed between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact Sean Andres, Assistant Water Superintendent, at (973) 263-7099, Monday through Friday between 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Kalaaz Indian Clothing held a grand open ribbon cutting on Sunday, April 30
PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, April 30th, Kalaaz, a store specializing in Indian Ethnic Wear, held a grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony at 1246 Route 46 West in Parsippany.
Kalaaz is an Indian clothing store where traditional elegance meets contemporary style. Kalaaz is an effort to bring the Indian culture through our clothing in Parsippany. Kalaaz is a family-owned small business that offers a stunning range of Indian clothing that celebrates our rich cultural heritage and also caters to modern tastes.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, along with Councilman Justin Musella, Councilman Frank Neglia, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, and Dr. Bhagirath Maheta, Vice Chairman, Raj Dichpally, Secretary, and members Scott Donnelly, Adam Kandil, and Jigar Shah were all present for the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Kalaaz. Robert Peluso, President of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, and Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen joined the celebration.
During the grand opening ceremony, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill presented a plaque to Jignasa Zaveri, the owner of Kalaaz, to express gratitude for choosing Parsippany as the location for the store and to congratulate her on the successful grand opening.Vimal Zaveri, Jignasa Zaveri, Chinmaya Zaveri, Mayor James Barberio, Shraddha Sharma, and Krutarth Zaveri come together to celebrate the grand opening of Kalaaz during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.In addition to its selection of Indian Ethnic Wear, Kalaaz also offers a wide variety of Indian Jewelry for customers.
Kalaaz’s collection includes exquisite sarees, dazzling lehenga cholis, vibrant salwar kameez sets, jewelry, and more. They pay special attention to quality and craftsmanship; the finest fabrics and handcrafted designs will make you feel like royalty. The store is a one-stop shop for all Indian clothing needs, whether for weddings, festivals, or everyday wear.
The experts are passionate about helping you find the perfect outfit that fits your personality and style. They believe that fashion and style represent more than just superficial additions to our daily lives; they represent one’s individuality. Here, one can experience the timeless beauty of Indian fashion at the store. They aim to create a home far from home for our Indian community in Parsippany.
They believe fashion and style represent more than just superficial additions to our daily lives.
A nice spread of some popular and flavorful Indian cuisine, compliments of Kalaaz, was enjoyed by those in attendance following the ceremony.
MORRIS COUNTY — Letter carriers nationwide will participate in their Annual “Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive” on Saturday, May 13.
The Letter Carriers’ Food Drive is an annual event where letter carriers across the United States collect non-perishable food donations from homes on their routes. The donations are then delivered to local food banks and pantries to help those in need.
The Letter Carriers’ Food Drive will benefit the Interfaith Pantry this year. This local organization provides food and other essential items to individuals and families in need in the community. The Interfaith Pantry is committed to ensuring that no one in the community goes hungry. The food donations collected through the Letter Carriers’ Food Drive will help them continue serving those in need.
Residents in the community are encouraged to participate in the food drive by leaving non-perishable food items in the special bags provided by their letter carriers. Some suggested items to donate include canned goods, pasta, rice, cereal, peanut butter, and other non-perishable items with long shelf life.
The Letter Carriers’ Food Drive is a great opportunity for the community to unite to support those in need and help fight hunger. By working together, we can positively impact the lives of those struggling to put food on the table.
The Interfaith Food Pantry Network has supplied emergency and supplemental food since 1994 to Morris County residents in need. Clients are low-income working families, the unemployed, people with disabilities, and seniors living on fixed incomes.
In 2022, the Interfaith Food Pantry Network distributed more than 1.7 million pounds of food during 31,100 visits from its two pantry sites through home delivery, free farmers markets, and Healthy Choices Mobile Pantry Network.
For food support or more information, visit www.mcifp.org or call (973) 538-8049.
Asahi Sushi Ramen is another inconspicuous little eateries that one may pass numerous times and never really pay attention to.
MORRIS COUNTY — I must admit that I am an amateur at sushi/sashimi, but I have been to enough sushi restaurants to know good from mediocre sushi, and I know the signs when to turn around and run. One of my personal rules is to avoid fast food sushi places. There’s quality food, and then there’s fast food. Sushi is one food where quality is imperative. Fortunately for us, in the Parsippany area, we have, what I consider, a great sushi restaurant right on Halsey Road in the Lake Parsippany area of our township.
Asahi Sushi Ramen is another inconspicuous little eateries that one may pass numerous times and never really pay attention to. I know I have. This cute little, attractive, stand-alone building, with its canopy-covered patio, is your doorway to a wonderful Japanese dining experience. The site was previously occupied by Delizia Pizza.
Chef Frank Chen, Owner Lee Li, Jade Li, Tina Li, Hostess Coco Pan, and Pat Minutillo
Asahi Sushi Ramen, a family-owned and operated establishment, opened its doors for business on August 5, 2021, amid the COVID pandemic. A risky venture, but owners Lee Li and his wife, Tina Lin, felt they had much to offer the community with their high-quality, traditional approach to this highly popular cuisine.
In my interview with a very personable and welcoming Tina Lin, I acquired an enlightening education in sushi/sashimi history and preparation. Ms. Lin, who arrived in the U.S.A. from Fujian, China, in 2008 and settled in Lake Hiawatha in 2014, expressed her love for Parsippany and desires Asahi Sushi Ramen to be a “valuable part of the community, not just a business.” Her dream is to create an environment where “people can come and enjoy themselves and put the world behind.” They already have plans to renovate and expand the restaurant next year.
The restaurant is small, with five booths along the walls and seven two-person wooden tables comfortably around the dining area. It is immaculately clean, warm, bright, cozy, and comfortable—lively, fun, well-thought-out Japanese-themed décor, with paintings, ornate light fixtures, and wall hangings. Great ambiance and aesthetics, very friendly staff, warm color scheme, wood grain flooring, and open cooking station (where you can sit and watch Chef Frank Chen showing off his knife skills), well-spaced seating, all set the proper relaxed atmosphere and vibe for the wonderful meal to come. Oh, did I mention that it is BYOB? With that in mind, our group brought some imported Orion and Sapporo beer and a bottle of Saki, which they were glad to heat up for us.
Sliced White Tuna with Black Truffles in a Tasty, Sweet, Spicy, Hot Truffle Sauce
As we perused the menu for our appetizers, we were introduced to Asahi, sliced white Tuna with black Truffles in a tasty, sweet, spicy, hot truffle sauce. Our mouths were watering as we quickly made quick work of that fantastic, light, and fresh dish. The menu consists of a wide selection of soups, salads, appetizers (from the kitchen and/or the sushi bar, Sushi, Sashimi a La Carte, Vegetarian Rolls, Roll or Hand Rolls, Special Roll, Sushi Bar Entrees, Party Specials, Ramen, Kitchen Entrees, Bento Box, and special Lunch Menu.
Chef’s Amazing Roll (Spicy Tuna, Avocado, Crunch Tuna, with a Garlic Sauce)
We did start with the Chef’s Amazing Roll (Spicy Tuna, Avocado, Crunch Tuna, with a Garlic Sauce). Superb! If this is available on your visit, I highly recommend it as an appetizer or an entree! Miso Soup (Soybean Soup) was next, followed by our shared appetizers of Haru Maki (Japanese Spring Rolls), Edamame (cooked Japanese Soybean), Shumai (Steamed Shrimp Dumplings), Tempura Appetizer (Shrimp, Chicken, &
Sushi & Sashimi Combo (Five pieces sushi, nine pieces sashimi, and one California roll)
Vegetables), and Crispy Calamari (Lightly Fried Squid with sweet sauce. The delicate flavors (mild, sweet, savory, rich, and sour) and textures (flaky, meaty, tender, firm) were all delicious.
Entrees were up next. Didn’t know how we could beat those appetizers, but we were ready and willing to give it our best. I chose the Sushi & Sashimi Combo (Five pieces sushi, nine pieces sashimi, and one California roll). It was a fresh and generous portion of expertly prepared, magnificently presented, tasteful selection of salmon, tuna, yellowtail fish, and perfectly balanced seasoned rice (not too soft or firm). After all, rice is the foundation on which sushi is built. The sushi had a light, fresh, umami-savory taste. At the same time, the thinly sliced sashimi had a texture that was delicate, firm, slightly salty, smooth, and melted in your mouth. Remember, Sushi and sashimi are not the same thing. Sushi is made with rice, while sashimi is not. Sashimi has a bold and savory taste, while Sushi is mild and neutral flavored, and no strong fishy flavors are involved. Of course, everything came with sides of that fantastic sinus-clearing fresh wasabi and pickled ginger to clear your palate. It’s evident in the preparation and presentation that Sushi is as much a science as it is an art.
Bento Box (Teriyaki, Nigimaki, Tempura, or Sushi)
Others in the group chose either the Tuna Sushi or the Bento Box (Teriyaki, Nigimaki, Tempura, or Sushi), along with side orders of Spicy Mayonnaise and Fried Rice. Everyone agreed their choices were delicious and satisfying. The Banana Tempura Special for dessert was a perfect closing statement for this meal. WOW! Decadently delicious is an understatement.
Banana Tempura Special
After dinner, I got to sit down with Tina Lin again to continue my education in the art of Sushi. Ms. Lin advised me that Asahi uses only the freshest, highest-grade sushi quality fish (not all Sushi restaurants do), which is picked up regularly (all Daily Specials are picked up that morning). According to Ms. Lin, “The best sushi restaurants take great care in sourcing their seafood, as well as all their sushi ingredients, from a reputable fishmonger or market.” All of Asahi’s fish is acquired from a trusted Japanese company in South Jersey. She continued, “All Asahi’s sushi/sashimi is prepared by a highly trained Chef using only those high quality, fresh items, and all their food is prepared in an authentic, traditional consistent manner.
Ms. Lin said her mother was also a restauranteur and communicates closely with her restaurant-owning relatives in Japan to discuss the latest recipes and best seasonal options. Yes, Asahi’s menu does change seasonally to keep everything fresh and meet demands. I also learned, and something that most people do not realize, that skilled sushi chefs, those who prepare truly authentic Japanese sushi, must go through years of rigorous training, often up to ten years, to become an itamae, or sushi master and that Asahi Chef Frank Chen (a cousin) went through that demanding training. The result of that training is evident from your first bite.
Shrimp Fried Rice
Expert knife skills are imperative to cut different types of fish expertly and precisely to bring out the best pieces of the fish. In sushi preparation, rice and the careful mixing of sauces and arrangement of other ingredients must also be very exact. Neatness and accuracy are crucial to present a visually stunning and deliciously perfect piece of sushi for every guest. In addition, preparing sushi rice is a special process that requires precision and consistency. Finally, knowing which ingredients work well together is crucial to a successful sushi dish.
Knowing which ingredients work well together is crucial to a successful sushi dish.
Proper etiquette, eating techniques, freeze storage, and much more can add to your knowledge of this wonderful cuisine, but I am out of space for now. Possibly we can get to that at a future date. And the last thing is to compliment and thank the chef right after eating the sushi if you’re eating sushi in a traditional Japanese restaurant.
Thank you to Owner Lee Li, Tin Lin, our hostesses Coco Pan, Jade Li, and Chef Frank Chen for your gracious hospitality, making us feel like family, and especially for the wonderful dining experience.
“Arigato gozai•masu” (thank you very much.
Asahi Sushi Ramen is located at 157 Halsey Road, Lake Parsippany. Hours: Seven days per week, 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Monday – Thursday); 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. (Friday and Saturday) and 12:30 p..m. to 9:00 p.m. (Sunday) Note: The restaurant closes daily from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Delivery (within 5 miles) – Catering – Dine In – Take Out. Bike Parking – Off Street Parking – Takes Reservations – Vegetarian Options; BYOB.
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