MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners today awarded grants to construct eight new trail projects, adding more than five miles of walkways and paths recommended by the Morris County Trail Construction Grant Program.
The grants amount to $528,265, meaning the Commissioners have cleared a total of 47 grant awards totaling 28.37 miles under the seven-year-old project, with 21 of the trail projects already completed. The newly approved grants cover projects ranging from .12 miles in length to 1.32 miles. Grants for five of the projects will cover design and permitting work, while three involve construction.
Pequannock Township – Foothills Park Trail, Phase 1 – .30 miles – $36,000
Funding for trail projects is derived from Morris County’s voter-approved Morris County Preservation Trust Fund, which was established in 1992 and subsequently modified with voter approval in 2002 to establish a Historic Preservation Fund. In 2014, voters approved a ballot question by a margin of 3 to 1 to modify the fund again, this time allowing trail development as an allowable use for a portion of the trust fund money.
Morris County has now dedicated nearly $5 million towards establishing 28.37 miles of trails since grants were first awarded under the Trail Construction Grant program in 2016.
Purpose of Funding: The grant program’s purpose is to provide recreational trail use opportunities, which benefit the communities and enhance the quality of life for the residents of Morris County.
Who is Eligible: Any of the thirty-nine municipalities in Morris, New Jersey County. Municipalities are limited to one application per funding cycle.
Permissible Uses and Projects: Construction of new trails for both motorized and non-motorized uses and trail enhancements, including improved trails to accommodate increased volume and/or compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Funding is considered only if the land on which a trail is to be constructed is:
Located in Morris County
Owned by the municipality in full and or via permanent easements
Permanently preserved public parkland or private land with dedicated easements for public recreation use
On land with a permanent easement for public trail/recreational provided to the municipality
In full municipal control of all land and/or easements on which trail(s) are to be funded
PARSIPPANY — Today, Councilman Justin Musella announced that his petition to repeal the
broken Project Labor Agreement ordinance signed into law earlier this year had reached the goal of over 1,000 signatures. With bipartisan support from residents all over town, it is clearer more than ever that the ordinance should be repealed. Blanket PLA’s like the one introduced in October stifle competition for government construction contracts, increase costs to the taxpayer, and put small and minority-owned businesses at a competitive disadvantage.
“Parsippany is already in the midst of an over-taxation crisis, combined with serious structural problems in our finances.” said Councilman Musella, adding, “I made an oath from day one to fight to keep Parsippany affordable and enable residents to stay here and not flee our town. It is encouraging to see the groundswell of support for this effort, and I look forward to presenting these petition signatures to the Township Council.”
“Project Labor Agreements eliminate the competitive bidding process for contractors that choose not to belong to a union, many of whom are members of our New Jersey Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors.” said Sam DeAlmeida, President of the New Jersey Associated Builders and Contractors, adding “As the leading voice for these contractors, we are extremely opposed to the recently passed PLA ordinance in Parsippany-Troy Hills as it disproportionately takes business opportunities away from qualified contractors. We thank Councilman Musella for advocating for these contractors and supporting his efforts to repeal the PLA.”
Ari Amador, Ron Rafanello, Dr. Dale G. Caldwell, Linda Rafanello, Rocco Rafanello, Nick Rafanello, Terry Rouse, Nicole
Rafanello and Joan Fitch
PARSIPPANY — The Rothman Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Fairleigh Dickinson University has named the Eastern Janitorial Company its Family Business of the Year for 2022. The award was presented at Rothman’s 30th annual awards program held recently at the Upper Montclair Country Club in Clifton. Based in Parsippany, the Eastern Janitorial Company is a family business specializing in commercial facility services for businesses in New Jersey and surrounding states.
Eastern Janitorial Company is located at 1915 Route 46, Suite 201.
Founded in 1977, Eastern is a second-generation family-run business currently employing hundreds of workers in the tri-state area. Eastern operates in three main divisions; Commercial Facility Cleaning and Supplies, Specialty Flooring and Surface Restoration, and Engineering/Handyman Services.
FDU, NJ Family Business of The Year Awards
The New Jersey Family Business Awards recognized 11 companies for their innovative strategies and business practices that have positively impacted the state, local economy, and society in general. Eastern was chosen as “Family Business of the Year” based on its work to support its employees, the community, and their commitment to sustainable growth. “Throughout the years, our customers have appreciated us for always putting their needs first.” said Nick Rafanello, Eastern’s CEO, “We are relentless in saying ‘yes’ to customer requests and finding creative solutions to their unique challenges. This ability to provide unmatched and prompt solutions for our customers didn’t happen by chance, but through the loyalty of our dedicated family and family-like staff who are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.”
Part of Silberman College of Business since 1989, the Rothman Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship supports, promotes, and researches entrepreneurship with a special focus on family- and veteran-owned businesses. The awards program recognizes the significant contributions to the economy and community made by extraordinary family businesses. Rothman has honored outstanding family businesses since 1992.
Eastern Janitorial Company is a facility services company based in Parsippany. Eastern is a second-generation NJ-based family business with a legacy that began as R&R Maintenance in 1977. Eastern has grown substantially over the past decade, organically and through acquiring various strategically positioned peers. Eastern Janitorial’s success results from our unwavering focus on a single, simple guiding principle – find the best people, train and support them with the latest industry tools and practices and treat them like family. As a result, their motivated team remains highly focused on providing every customer with a consistently superior service experience.
PARSIPPANY — 1280 Route 46, a 15,000 sq. ft. office building, and 1300 Route 46, an Outback Restaurant, were sold in a transaction that closed on December 21.
The buildings are located on the properties sold.
The sellers were two family investment groups with overlapping ownership, and the buyer was Shree Troy Hills, LLC, a major investor in Parsippany Commercial & Residential properties. The properties, situated on almost three acres, sold for a combined price of 4.2 million dollars.
Outback is has a triple-net lease and is not closing.
Kenneth Kaplan of KenKap Realty Corp. represented buyers and sellers.
Outback Restaurant is located at 1300 Route 46The office building at 1280 Route 46
All Parsippany residents and taxpayers who care about this township are overwhelmed by current inflationary conditions and want to lower tax and spending increases need to sign Councilman Musella’s petition to repeal the deeply unpopular Project Labor Agreement ordinance recently passed into law. We further encourage concerned residents to attend this Wednesday’s January 4 Town Council meeting at 7:00 p.m. to speak up.
We believe that free and open competition for our taxpayer-funded projects is best for the town—not for officials to pander to a chosen few special interest groups who want to strong-arm how and where our township money is spent.
We disagree with the Mayor and Town Council’s decision to mandate that all municipal construction projects costing over five million be subject to Project Labor Agreements. We also believe that the union’s campaign of harassment and intimidation of resident discussion directed toward opponents of this mandate is unacceptable and deplorable. If the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills leadership will not protect those who dissent from the majority on this (or any civil topic), leadership is complicit in the suppression of public speaking and acting not in the best interests of the people of Parsippany.
All these reasons, along with the well-documented disastrous effects that PLA’s have caused where implemented, is exactly why the time is now for it to be repealed.
Signed by the following Parsippany Residents:
Mary Purzycki
Anthony Longo Annette Terrone
Raymond Gallup Susan Petrovic
Hank Heller Bob Venezia
Elaine Gavalyas
Vehicles owned by were parked at Parsippany Hills High School on October 18. This photo was part of the #1 article published in 2022 on Parsippany Focus
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Focus recaps the year in review based on what stories received the most views from our readers. There were 775 stories published in 2022. A timeline of 2022’s most important news stories includes “Controversial Union Ordinance Brings out the Masses” and “Houlihan’s Abruptly Closed Its Doors.” Our restaurant critic, Patrick Minutillo, received a top storyline for his review on “Keo Ku Korean BBQ Restaurant: Authentic Korean Food.”
Readers don’t realize what it takes to write and publish a story. Most stories require a personal visit, which can take an hour or more. A recent council meeting lasted five hours. Most assignments require photographs. We take many pictures. The pictures must be uploaded to our main computer. Then write the article based on notes, documents, research, police reports, etc. After writing the article, we go back and review the photographs to choose which one(s) better illustrates the story. We convert the photo(s) into Photoshop and resize it to fit the website’s specifications. Then all photos are uploaded to our server with the story. That’s where the magic happens. We write a caption for the photos and a headline before publishing the story. That process can take anywhere from an hour to five or six hours.
Parsippany Focus publishes stories of all types: Council Meetings, Planning Board Meetings, Zoning Board of Adjustment Meetings, Grand Opening Ribbon Cuttings, Police News, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Sports, School News, Restaurant Reviews, Social Happenings, Death Notices, all the news that makes Parsippany Focus a publication serving the 56,162 residents of Parsippany-Troy Hills.
Top story of 2022: Controversial Union Ordinance Brings out the Masses
Controversial Union Ordinance Brings out the Masses
Published on October 25, 2022, and received 29,139 hits. Click here to read the full story.
The crowd of over 200 union members packed Parsippany Hills High School in support of the PLA (Project Labor Agreement)
The #2 story was: Houlihan’s Abruptly Closed Its Doors
Houlihan’s Abruptly Closed Its Doors
Published on September 30, 2022, and received 27,662 hits. Click here to read the full story.
Houlihan’s abruptly closed the Parsippany location on Thursday, September 29.
Former Kmart Building will be Subdivided into Three Retail Stores
Published on June 23, 2002, and received 11,769 hits. Click here to read the full story.
The former Kmart building
Keo Ku Korean BBQ Restaurant: Authentic Korean Food
Published on April 29, 2002, and received 9,602 hits. Click here to read the full story.
Keo Ku Korean BBQ Restaurant (Keo Ku Jang) is located at 245 Route 46 East, Parsippany-Troy Hills.
Patient From Care One Wandered; Found Dead
Published on February 20, 2022, and received 5,601 hits. Click here to read the full story.
John Eschenbach
1515 Route 10 Being Demolished to Make Room for Housing Development
Published on May 27, 2022, and received 2,530 hits. Click here to read the full story.
The two office buildings at 1515 Route 10 are in the process of being demolished to make room for housing development. Photo by Brendon Diaz.
Driver Charged with DWI Collided with School Bus Carrying School Children
Published on December 13, 2022, and received 2,315 hits. Click here to read the full story.
The driver, Ms. Cristin Isaacson, 40, Mendham, was operating a 2022 BWM 740 and traveling north of Mazabrook Road toward Troy Road. The BMW crashed into the guard rail on the left side of the roadway. The roadway is above Route 80.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Education Association (PTHEA) Negotiations
Published on January 28, 2022, and received 2,268 hits. Click here to read the full story.
Frank A. Calabria Education Center
Vehicle Fire on Route 10
Published on October 23, 2022, and received 2,140 hits. Click here to read the full story.
A landscaper’s vehicle was on fire on Route 10 West.
Backdoor Politics Backfires Against Zoning Board Chairman Robert Iracane
Published on January 20, 2022, and received 2,005 hits. Click here to read the full story.
Robert Iracane, Chairman Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment, minutes after the vote was taken for the reappointment of Board Attorney Peter King, Esq.
MORRIS COUNTY — Sheriff James M. Gannon is pleased to announce the promotions of Detective Captain Walter Rawa, Jr. and Detective Captain Aaron Tomasini. Captain Rawa will oversee the Court Services Division, and Captain Tomasini will oversee the Patrol Division.
Detective Captain Walter Rawa, Jr. and Detective Captain Aaron Tomasini with Sheriff James M. Gannon
Captain Rawa, who is a law enforcement legacy, was hired by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in 2002. After graduating from the Morris County Police Academy, he was assigned to the Protective Services Division. In 2004, he was transferred to the Warrants Section, where he served as an undercover detective until 2006. In 2006, Walter assisted in starting the Traffic Support Unit and achieved certification as a LASER and a RADAR operator and instructor. In 2007, he was selected for the agency’s Marine Patrol on Lake Hopatcong. In 2011, Captain Rawa was assigned to the Emergency Services/K-9 Unit as a Detective. He trained, handled, and certified multiple canines in explosives, search and rescue, patrol, narcotics, and arson. In 2012, he was appointed the rank of Corporal. Between 2015 and 2018, Captain Rawa worked in Community Outreach & Planning as the Agency Training Coordinator. He was promoted to Detective Lieutenant in 2019.
Captain Rawa is one of the Morris County instructors for the Sheriff’s Office’s Responsible School Violence Prevention, Preparation, and Protection (RSVP-3) program. He has played a critical role in developing and training Morris County law enforcement officers on a standardized response protocol to an active shooter incident. He has also attended and attained local and federal certifications in law enforcement response to an active shooter. He is currently a civilian response instructor in the national Run, Hide, Fight model.
Captain Rawa was a tactical operator with the Morris County Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team for 16 of his 21 years with the Agency. He has been a member of the agency Honor Guard for 19 years and currently serves as its unit commander. He is a certified Police Training Commission Academy Instructor for the State of NJ for firearms and physical conditioning. He has also been certified as a Taser Master Instructor since 2021. In 2022, he assisted the agency with body-worn camera purchasing and implementation.
Captain Tomasini began his career with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in 2005, where he attended the 66th Basic Police Academy Class. Upon completion, Captain Tomasini has spent most of his career assigned to the Emergency Services Unit, where he performed various roles as a K-9 Handler, K-9 Trainer, Bomb Technician, and Tactical Operator with the Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (SERT). Over the years, Captain Tomasini has worked with many K9 partners, most significantly, Jax, Hydro, Sig, Kiara, and Po. Aaron has gained certifications in multiple disciplines throughout his career, including K-9 Trainer, Supervising K-9 Trainer, Firearms Instructor, Police Rifle Instructor, Project Lifesaver Trainer, Monadnock Expandable Baton Instructor, TASER Master Instructor, FBI-trained Basic Sniper, and FBI Tactical Bomb Technician.
Captain Tomasini is a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan and is currently in his twenty-first (21st) year of service with the New Jersey Army National Guard. He currently maintains the rank of Major and serves as the Battalion Executive Officer for the 2-113th Infantry Battalion, Forty-Fourth (44th) Infantry Brigade Combat Team. He graduated from several Army courses, including Basic Airborne, Pathfinder, Air Assault, Ranger, Infantry Officer Basic, Maneuver Captain’s Career, Combat Advisor, and the Command and General Staff College Common Core.
Academically, Captain Tomasini holds multiple degrees and certificates that include an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the County College of Morris, two Bachelor of Arts Degrees in Psychology and Sociology from Thomas Edison State University, a Master’s Degree in Management from Thomas Edison State University, and an Educational Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Stockton University.
The Morris County Sheriff’s Office recognized these individuals and their accomplishments in a promotional ceremony held in the Historic Courtroom at the Morris County Superior Courthouse on December 29, 2022. Sheriff Gannon started the promotional ceremony with the history of the agency and thanked the families of the newly promoted Captains saying, “Our agency’s success lies in the hands of the family that supports the officers.”
Sheriff Gannon reminded the new Captains to hold themselves to the task and offered suggestions such as “challenging your subordinates, treat officers and the public with honesty and respect, take the good from your past supervisors and treat people the way you want to be treated.”
Sheriff Gannon also said, “These new Captains are the best of the best and have earned the trust and respect of their peers.”
PARSIPPANY — Positive Development is hosting an in-person recruiting event for professionals on Thursday, January 12, from 12:00 Noon to 2:30 p.m. at its center on 299 Cherry Hill Road, Suite 108. They’re looking for individuals with a bachelor’s degree, a high level of commitment, and at least one year of experience working one-on-one with children
Positive Development provides comprehensive developmental therapy that treats children and teens on the autism spectrum. Their transdisciplinary, integrative approach includes occupational, speech, and mental health therapies and ongoing parent coaching and support, empowering parents as essential members of their child’s care team. A better choice for many families, their evidence-based model meets the child where they are to build more meaningful connections and relationships.
“When you join our team, clinicians and developmental autism specialists receive paid training/certification in this developmental intervention. Supported by research, this training gave me valuable insight into human development through cultivating relationships and creating playful, joyful experiences,” says Positive Development Case Manager Rachael Singer.
Clinical Director, Natalie Kitts, adds, “This is my dream come true, being the Clinical Director in NJ with an amazing team of therapists. Together, we plan to make developmental therapy accessible to as many families as possible.”
There will be interviews on-site, and registration is required for the event. Please register here. For any other questions about this event and to keep informed on news and updates, schedule an assessment, or join the team, please reach out to Positive Development.
Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, Prosecutor Robert Carroll and Lt. Susan Johnson
MORRIS COUNTY — After 26 years of service in law enforcement, Lieutenant Susan Johnson has announced her retirement. Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, and Deputy Chief Robert McNally honored Lt. Johnson for her superlative service. They expressed the gratitude of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office on her last day.
Deputy Chief Robert McNally, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, Detective Matthew Magnone, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, and Lt. Susan Johnson.
Johnson was hired by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in October 2002. She was recently promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in February 2021, overseeing the General Investigations Unit within the Courts & Administration Division. Over the last two decades with the MCPO, Lt. Johnson has been assigned to the Domestic Violence/Missing Persons Units, Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, Megan’s Law Unit, General Investigations Unit, Pretrial Services Unit, and the Fraud and Professional Standards Units, and has supervised the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment, Megan’s Law and Internet Crimes Against Children units, we well as the Pretrial Services and General Investigations units.
Lt. Johnson attended the FBI’s Forensic Facial Imaging Course and was a Composite Sketch Artist, which was something she aspired to do early on in her career.
Before joining the MCPO, Lt. Johnson began her career in law enforcement as a patrol officer for the Town of Boonton Police Department. There she was assigned to the patrol division and detective bureau and was involved in several community policing initiatives, including serving as a DARE instructor.
PARSIPPANY — The Mount Tabor Fire Department, along with Morris Plains Fire Department, Morris Plains Fire Association, Cedar Knolls Fire Department, Boonton Fire Department, Parsippany Police Department, Parsippany Emergency Medical Services, Morris County Office of Emergency Management EMS, Atlantic ALS, and Morris County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to 52 Averell Drive on a reported kitchen fire with burn victims.
Upon arrival, no fire was visible, but it was confirmed that there was one victim with extensive burns, and it was requested by Basic Life Support (BLS) that they be flown to RWJBarnabas Health for treatment.
A second victim was evaluated and also transported to the hospital. The damage to the home was minimal.
This incident emphasizes the importance of Mutual Aid agreements and mutual respect for our neighboring companies. A fire or emergency can break out at any time and anywhere, and manpower is essential for a safe and effective fire ground.
Mental Health Association Director Madine Despeine, Mental Health Association Officer Chelsea Whiting, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, R-Morris, Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, Peer Recovery Specialist Jon-Erik Randazzo, Corporal Erica Valvano, Social Case Worker Jaimie Bingham and Mental Health Association Case Manager Karolyn Mora.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon and Hope One and associated organizations received the 5th Annual Light the World award from the Morristown Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Sunday, December 4.
The Light the World award was created five years ago as part of an initiative to highlight tremendous community impact in Northern New Jersey, officials said, adding it is an initiative from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to recognize love and service to others. Individuals or groups are nominated for the award as they exhibit community service and help to spread light and sheriff joy to others.
Sheriff Gannon partnered with non-profit organizations, law enforcement officers, mental health, addiction recovery experts, and spiritual advisers to develop the Hope One program, a mobile substance use, and mental health disorder outreach, officials said. The mobile unit stops in communities to provide free Narcan training and Naloxone kits and provides access to addiction recovery and mental health programs.
The Hope One mobile unit is sponsored by The Morris County Sheriff’s office in partnership with the Mental Health Association of Morris County, Morris County Prevention is Key, and its Center for Addiction Recovery, Education, and Success (CARES).
In 2017, Sheriff Gannon opened the “Hope Wing” at the Morris County Correctional Facility, which assists inmates with substance use disorders and helps them repair relationships, manage anger, spiritually grow, and access education.
The Light the World award was presented by William H. Ludlam, president of the Morristown Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Sheriff Gannon accepted the award and praised the staff members at Hope One, who said, “Are the ones who do the day-to-day life-saving work in the community.” He asked those present to stand and introduced them by name, including Mental Health Association Director Madine Despeine, Mental Health Association Officer Chelsea Whiting, Peer Recovery Specialist Jon Erik Randazzo, Corporal Erica Valvano, Social Case Worker Jaimie Bingham, and Mental Health Association Case Manager-Karolyn Mora.
In addition, singer-songwriter, Coco Santoni, performed two original songs at the event.
Aura Dunn
Speakers included Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, R-Morris; Adeline Connor, Young Women’s organization member, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; Robert A. Wilson, chief security officer, Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest, New Jersey; the Rev. Dr. David A. Hollowell, chair of Martin Luther King Observance Committee and outgoing president of Morris Area Clergy Council, and Mohammad Ali Chaudry, president of Islamic Society of Basking Ridge, and Blair Schleicher Wilson of Mountain Lakes, CEO, of Morris Habitat for Humanity, based in Randolph Township.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Richard Patina and Mayor James Barberio
PARSIPPANY — Mayor James R. Barberio held a small promotional ceremony on Tuesday, December 27, where he promoted Deputy Chief Richard Pantina to the rank of Chief. Pantina is the ninth chief in the history of Parsippany.
Mayor James Barberio is swearing in Acting Police Chief Richard Pantina as his two children hold the bible.
Chief Pantina was hired in July of 1989 after previously serving as a police officer in Elizabeth.
Parsippany Police Chief signing the documents
Over his 36 years in law enforcement, he has held numerous positions within the police department which, include Commander of the Investigative Division, which oversees Internal Affairs, along with the Adult and Juvenile Detective Sections, Lieutenant in the Patrol Division, where he oversaw the day to day operations of his Patrol Section, and as a Community Relations Officer while assigned to the Support Services Division.
He is pursuing his Bachelor’s Degree in Public and Emergency Services at Fairleigh Dickinson University. He is also a graduate of the NJ State Association of Chiefs of Police Command and Leadership Program.
Throughout his career, Chief Pantina has been recognized for his performance and dedication to law enforcement through awards for Exceptional Police Service and numerous Command and Unit Citations.
Pantina was appointed Deputy Chief in 2013 by Mayor James Barberio. Pantina was hired in July 1989 and assigned to the Patrol Division. Before he came to Parsippany, Pantina served as a Police Officer in Elizabeth for about three years. He lives in Berkeley Heights with his wife and two children.
Mayor Barberio stated, “I believe he will continue to guide the police department in a positive direction, as he has already done so over the last year and a half as the Acting Chief of Police. His knowledge, experience, and professionalism are a few of the many reasons I decided he would be the perfect fit for the position. I would like to personally congratulate the Chief and I look forward to working with you in the future.”
Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Richard Pantina with his wife and two children.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio cutting the ribbon at Zen Dental Care
PARSIPPANY — Zen Dental Care held a grand opening ribbon-cutting celebration. Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio cut the ribbon with Dr. Sheren Elsaid. Also attending were Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilmen Frank Neglia, Justin Musella, and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso and Board Members Ildiko Peluso and Nicolas Limanov. Many friends and family members also attended the event.
Zen Dental Care is located at 2200 Route 10, Suite 105, Parsippany.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill presents Dr. Sheren Elsaid with a plaque welcoming Zen Dental Care to Parsippany.
Dr. Sheren Elsaid spent two years planning and designing her newly opened dental practice. Zen Dental Care is designed to help relieve dental anxiety by focusing on using distraction methods involving sight, smell, and sound. When you arrive at Zen Dental Care, you will be greeted by a friendly team and can choose from a comfort menu. Items such as aromatherapy, warm blanket, noise-canceling headphones, TVs on the ceiling, and laughing gas are available. The office colors are warm and inviting, and the entire team is there to help make your dental visit as pleasant as possible.
Parsippany Economic Development presented Zen Dental Care with a plaque welcoming the new business to Parsippany.
Dr. Sheren Elsaid earned her Bachelor’s degree from CUNY Hunter College in Psychology and earned her dental degree from Temple University. Dr. Elsaid then completed her Advanced Education in General Dentistry through NYU Langone Dental Medicine Program. Dr. Elsaid is dedicated to her patients and continues to take extensive continuing education courses to advance her skills and remain up-to-date with dental advances. Dr. Elsaid is a general dentist and practices all phases of dentistry. Services provided at Zen Dental Care include tooth-colored fillings, root canals, extractions, veneers, implants, and much more.
Dr. Elsaid also remains committed to giving back to her community. Zen Dental Care has partnered with Cornerstone Family Programs/Morristown Neighborhood House (CFP/MNH). For every new patient seen at Zen Dental Care, a portion of the proceeds with be donated to CFP/MNH to allow them to provide a much-needed, healthy, nutrient-rich meal to one of their students. Zen Dental Care believes in Cornerstone Family Program’s mission and is dedicated to helping make a difference.
When Dr. Elsaid isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons, traveling, reading, and trying new recipes.
Patient Exam Room
Zen Dental Care is a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus magazine, January 2023. Click here to read.
Councilman Justin Musella, Frank Neglia, Paul Carifi, Jr. Council President Michael dePierro and Vice President Loretta Gragnani
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Reorganization Meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 4, at 6:30 p.m.
Formal Action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings. Immediately following, there will be an agenda meeting.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or tape recorder to be used for a meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call to be 973-263-4351 to request auxiliary aid.
Mayor James R. Barberio
Council President Michael J. dePierro
Council Vice-President Loretta Gragnani
Councilman Paul Carifi Jr.
Councilman Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella
This c. 1900, two-room, wood framed schoolhouse, the Troy Hills Annex, is locally designated and has a Certification
of Eligibility for listing on the New Jersey Register. The building will continue to serve as a maintenance office and
storage building.
The 2016 grant of $28,064 assisted with completion of a Preservation Plan including building system evaluation and
archaeological investigations.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund is now accepting grant applications for 2023 funding. The grant application deadline is Friday, March 31, by 4:30 p.m.
Pictured is the Troy Hills Annex, c. 1900, a two-room, wood-framed schoolhouse that is locally designated and has a Certification of Eligibility for listing on the New Jersey Register. The building will continue to serve as a maintenance office and storage building. The 2016 grant of $28,064 assisted with completing a Preservation Plan, including building system evaluation and archaeological investigations. (Click here for details).
The Morris County Office of Planning and Preservation will hold an Application Workshop to explain the application process from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 25, via WebEx by clicking here.
A Declaration of Intent is due for applicants by February 28 at Morris County. (Click here to download).
The program began in 2003 after voters overwhelmingly approved dedicating tax dollars to preserve Morris County’s rich history. As of 2022, the Morris County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved nearly $46 Million to help preserve, restore, or protect 122 historic sites in 34 towns.
To be eligible for a matching grant, a historic resource must be listed or certified eligible for listing on the State Register or National Register of Historic Places. Eligible applicants are municipalities, qualified non-profit organizations, and the county.
Details for obtaining and submitting applications may be found by clicking here.
Register to attend the January 25 workshop via e-mail to: rchang@co.morris.nj.us or phone at (973) 829-8138. It will be an opportunity to ask questions about the program and the suitability of projects such as:
• Is my project eligible?
• What kinds of projects were funded in the past?
• Can cemeteries apply?
• Are Construction Documents required for construction projects?
• What if my project is not currently listed on the National and New Jersey Registers?
Commissioner Stephen Shaw
“This has been an exceptionally successful and well-received program, with nearly $46 million being committed to assist in the preservation, protection, and restoration of 122 historic properties since the first grant was issued in 2003,” said Commissioner Stephen Shaw, the board liaison to the county Office of Planning and Preservation.
The Historic Preservation Program is again waiving the requirement for paper submission for the 2023 grant applications, except where Preservation Plans and/or drawings/specs have not been reviewed previously by the County Consultant. Sites that have not done so must prepare a 10-minute video as part of the application.
Contact Ray Chang, P.P., Historic Preservation Program Coordinator, Morris County Office of Planning & Preservation, P.O. Box 900, 30 Schuyler Place, 4th floor, Morristown, NJ 07963-0900. Email: rchang@co.morris.nj.us. Phone: (973) 829-8138.
Those projects for which Construction Documents were prepared without Program funding are welcome to submit their Construction Documents for a preliminary review prior to the Grant Application deadline of March 31, 2023. They may also submit completed Construction Documents with their Construction Grant Applications.
Las Leyendas (Leyendas de Mexico) is located at 71 New Road, Parsippany.
MORRIS COUNTY — I can recollect a time when excellent authentic Mexican restaurants were far and few between, often requiring driving some distance to get to that one special place. Not anymore! Now in the Parsippany area alone, because of our diverse population, the growing popularity of Mexican cuisine, and its appealing taste, you can choose any of several outstanding Mexican restaurants close to home. Better yet, give them all a try! The fact is that Mexican food is currently one of the most popular ethnic cuisines in the United States. Which eatery you consider the best is obviously a personal preference. And no, I am not referring to one of those numerous chain restaurants that line our highways. An interesting fact is that in the U.S., most Mexican restaurants, 70 percent, are family or independently-owned restaurants, and the other 30 percent are classified as chain restaurants.
One of those local areas premieres Mexican restaurants, Leyendas de Mexico, is located in one of those easily accessible, multi-business strip malls at the intersection of New Road and Route 46 East in Parsippany.
The interior is lively and energetic environment featuring bold, vibrant, and playful color schemes throughout the interior, creating a truly festive vibe
Initially, Las Leyendas de Mexico appears lost among the row of small businesses in the nondescript strip mall. Still, on entry, you are immediately met with a lively and energetic environment featuring bold, vibrant, and playful color schemes throughout the interior, creating a truly festive vibe. The carefully thought-out, cohesive décor incorporates many elements of Mexican, Aztec, and Mayan heritage and culture, with engaging, large colorful murals featuring various historical and cultural themes, such as Mexican luminaries as Emiliano Zapata and Pancho Villa. Assorted accent lighting and soft Mexican music help accentuate the tone and mood of the décor. A painted blue-sky ceiling, blended pink, cream, and yellow walls, red brick accents, orange-brown tile floors, Día de Muertos folk art, statuary, sombreros, wall and ceiling tapestries, multi-colored tables, and rustic wicker chairs, all come together to provide diners with a casual, comfortable and is warm setting.
The layout is small and simple, with approximately ten tables, which can seat 35 people
The layout is small and simple, with approximately ten tables, which can seat 35 people, but still manages to feel spacious and cozy while not feeling overcrowded. Natural lighting illuminates the dining room, enhancing the visual effects and dining experience. There’s no doubt the inviting visual experience presented at Ley Leyendas de Mexico, despite its size, clearly sets a tone that enhances the dining experience. Notably, in a 2019 edition of Yelp, Leyendas de Mexico was listed as one of the twenty-four best Mexican restaurants in N.J.
After taking some time to peruse the artwork and enjoy the layout, my group was ready to sit down and enjoy some enticing, authentic Mexican cuisine. What makes food authentic is debatable, in my opinion. One source reminds one that the thing to remember is that the definition of “authentic” changes throughout history, so the food is eaten now is different from the food eaten a few hundred years ago. I guess this would apply to all the world’s cuisine. My research found that yellow cheese is the most common ingredient in Americanized (Tex-Mex) Mexican food. Yellow cheese isn’t Mexican. Often, in Mexico, they use “queso fresco,” which translates to “fresh cheese.” That is the primary difference between authentic Mexican and Americanized Mexican food. Just in case you were wondering.
First to arrive were several nicely sized servings of freshly made, zesty salsa accompanied by crunchy, crispy homemade chips.
We were seated immediately at a comfortable corner table as the very pleasant owner, Elvin Portillo Mazariegos, cordially welcomed us to the restaurant. I must admit our conversation was limited due to my unfortunate and limited ability to converse in Spanish. I was informed that Ley Leyendas de Mexico initially opened in 2016 and has been under the management of Mr. Mazariegos since 2020. Menus, water, and utensils quickly arrived as we discussed our dining selections. Ley Leyendas is a B.Y.O.B., so that I could share some Modelo beer with our host during our conversation.
Homemade Guacamole (fresh avocado, lime juice, red onions, cilantro, fresh jalapenos, and tomatoes, served with crispy tortilla chips).
The menu is surprisingly diverse, complete with a tantalizing selection of many of Mexico’s favorite dishes. Latin and Spanish selections are also available, as are what appear to be creative Tex-Mex dishes to round out the menu. Appetizers included popular selections such as Leyendas Nacho Supremos, Quesadillas, Chimichangas, Tostada de Pata, and many other favorites. Typical Mexican and Tex-Mex fare includes Enchiladas, Tostadas, Flautas, Chilaquiles, Carne Asada, and Molcajete, among the many options. Assorted seafood dishes, soups, cemitas, authentic Tacos, and burrito grande are all tempting. No doubt, pretty much anything Mexican, Tex-Mex, or Latin American you might be in the mood for! Not to forget their homemade desserts, including one of my favorites, Tres Leches Cake. It took some bantering back and forth among the group before settling our choices.
Ground Beef Chimichanga (a small burrito stuffed with spicy ground beef, cream cheese & shredded cheese, topped with homemade chipotle mayo)
First to arrive were several nicely sized servings of freshly made, zesty salsa accompanied by crunchy, crispy homemade chips. The salsa and chips were the perfect preludes to our meal, and we were devoured quickly. Next, out came to our appetizers, which we all shared Homemade Guacamole (fresh avocado, lime juice, red onions, cilantro, fresh jalapenos, and tomatoes, served with crispy tortilla chips), Quesadillas (12” flour tortillas filled with melted tres queso, shredded lettuce, and a choice of spicy chicken, carnitas, Carne al pastor, chorizo or spicy ground beef). With its creamy texture, fresh avocado’s mildly sweet, nutty taste was delicious and refreshing and went perfectly with the homemade chips.
Quesadillas
The tender, crisp, crunchy, cheese flavored Quesadillas were also a treat; Ground Beef Chimichanga (a small burrito stuffed with spicy ground beef, cream cheese & shredded cheese, topped with homemade chipotle mayo), and Chorizo Con Queso (spicy Mexican chorizo mixed w/diced tomatoes & red onions, topped w/melted Oaxaca cheese, served with a side of corn or flour tortillas.) Every individual dish was oozing with fresh, amazing, delicious flavor.
The Mariscos Soup (spicy red sauce sautéed with shrimp, tilapia, mussels, calamari, and zucchini).
The Mariscos Soup (spicy red sauce sautéed with shrimp, tilapia, mussels, calamari, and zucchini) preceded our entrees. A very well-prepared seafood selection, tasty and perfectly seasoned.
Churrasco Steak (Skirt steak marinated with homemade chimichurri sauce, served over grilled veggies, rice, and beans)
As a group, we were not that diverse in our entrée selections on this date. A few of us, including myself, opted for Parrillada Mixta (Grilled chicken breast, steak, shrimp, and chorizo, served with cactus, rice, and beans). In contrast, the others opted for the Churrasco Steak (Skirt steak marinated with homemade chimichurri sauce, served over grilled veggies, rice, and beans). The mixed grill of meats and seafood in my Parrillada Mixta was perfectly cooked and seasoned. It was a satisfying and delicious ending to a very pleasing dining experience. The group members who ordered the Churrasco Steak were equally pleased with their meal. Despite the appealing choice of desserts, we were all stuffed and unable to go any further, so my Tres Leches Cake will have to be put off until my next visit.
Parrillada Mixta
As you may be aware, there are two sister Ley Leyendas de Mexico restaurants in the general Parsippany area, one in Boonton and one in Morris Plains. This review is for the Parsippany location only. Visiting the other locations is certainly on my to-do list. As for Parsippany’s Ley Leyendas de Mexico, I recommend definitely giving it a try. I’m pretty sure you will put it on your restaurant rotation.
Buena comida, buenos amigos, buenos tiempos
Las Leyendas (Leyendas de Mexico) is located at 71 New Road, Parsippany.
(973) 287-7060 leyendasrestaurante.com
Closed Mondays – Dine In – In-Store Pickup – Catering Available
BYOB (Wine and Beer only) – Vegetarian Friendly – Off-Road Parking
Mexican, Latin, and Spanish Cuisine
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, January 2023
PARSIPPANY — Numerous units responded to a residence on Beechwood Avenue, Lake Hiawatha, on Friday, December 20, at 9:54 a.m. after a resident observed two males wearing medical masks approach their neighbors’ house and saw one of the males enter through a window.
Due to our increased residential patrols, units quickly arrived on the scene and immediately detained one male standing next to a 2007 Toyota Camry near Lake Shore Drive and Beechwood Avenue intersection. Units then proceeded to the residence, where they observed two males inside and placed them under arrest.
Officers located numerous items on the two males, which were later confirmed to be stolen from inside the residence.
The three males were transported back to police headquarters and processed. They were subsequently charged with the following:
John Gonzalez-Gutierrez: 26, Minotola, NJ
• 1 count of Burglary in the 3rd Degree
• 1 count of Conspiracy to commit Burglary in the 3rd Degree
Jhojan Rodriguez-Alvarez, 25, Queens, NY
• 1 count of Burglary in the 3rd Degree
• 1 count of Conspiracy to commit Burglary in the 3rd Degree
• 1 count of Theft in the 3rd Degree
• 1 count of Possession of Burglary Tools 4th Degree
Santiago Castro, 19, Ozone Park, NY
• 1 count of Burglary in the 3rd Degree
• 1 count of Conspiracy to commit Burglary in the 3rd Degree
• 1 count of Theft in the 3rd Degree
• 1 count of Possession of Burglary Tools 4th Degree
After further investigation, Santiago Castro was charged on December 22 in connection with four other burglaries on Vail Road, Manchester Street, Stafford Terrace, and Lucille Drive between October 19 and 21.
• 3 counts of Burglary in the 3rd Degree
• 3 counts of Theft of Movable Property in the 3rd Degree
• 3 counts of Criminal Mischief, a Disorderly Person Offense
• 1 count of Conspiracy to commit Theft of Movable Property in the 3rd Degree
• 1 count of Conspiracy to commit Burglary in the 3rd Degree
• 1 count of Burglary in the 2nd Degree
All three males were transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility, where they are currently being held in accordance with bail reform.
Although the Police have made arrests, more crews are operating throughout the state, so residents should continue to report any and all suspicious activity to our department.
Editor’s Note: An arrest or signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio presented Alicia Alzamore with a Certificate of Recognition
PARSIPPANY — On Monday, December 19, Brooklawn Middles School Seventh grader Alicia Alzamore was presented with a Proclamation from Mayor James Barberio. She is a Runner-Up in Optimum’s Hispanic Heritage Month Essay Contest.
Optimum and co-sponsor TelevisaUnivision are proud to announce the 2022 winners of its annual Hispanic Heritage Month essay contest. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which is celebrated each year from September 15 – October 15, Optimum invited students across the company’s 21-state footprint to share in 500 words or less a person or group of Hispanic heritage who have kept their community connected to one another, to their culture or those outside their community.
Optimum’s Manager of Government Affairs Aeisha Hayward, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Alicia, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Superintendent of Schools Dr. Barbara Sargent
Mayor James R. Barberio and Superintendent Dr. Barbara Sargent were in attendance to recognize Alicia, and she was presented with a backpack full of supplies, including an iPad.
At the ceremony, Mayor James Barberio presented Alicia with a “Certificate of Achievement.”
Optimum’s Manager of Government Affairs, Aeisha Hayward, made the presentation to Alicia Alzamore.
In addition, Senator Joe Pennacchio, Assemblymen Jay Webber, Christian Barranco, and Brian Bergen.
The student essay contest ran from September 15 to October 31 and boasted a total of four Grand Prize scholarships of $3,000. Prizes have also been awarded to a dozen finalists in both the high school and middle school categories.
Additionally, for the first time, Optimum and TelevisaUnivision recognized the educators who encouraged their students to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by submitting an essay. Special gifts were awarded to educators who sponsored the highest number of essay submissions from their students.
On Thursday, December 15, Optimum hosted a live virtual celebration event to recognize all winners and runners-up and to continue celebrating the diverse histories, cultures, and contributions of generations of Hispanic Americans across the country.
Altice USA and Optimum are committed to positively impacting the communities we serve.
PARSIPPANY — Dr. Trivikrama Bhanoji Pala Reddy, an Adjunct Professor at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Mechanical Engineering Department at NJIT, was named the Most Popular Mechanical Engineering professor in the United States according to Authority.org.
This website ranks the schools and professors considered 4000 institutions, 10000 data points, and 6TB Data analysis with 25 researchers. This site helps students and parents in their college search. Click here to view.
Dr. Trivikrama Reddy teaches Machine Design, Stress Analysis, Mechanical system Design, and various other Mechanical Engineering courses at NJIT.
He is a top and highly rated professor from NJIT on his ranking on Rate My Professor. (Click here)
In addition to teaching, Dr. Trivikrama Reddy is a Senior Staff Engineer in Research and Development Department working for Becton Dickinson Company, Franklin Lakes. He designs and develops various drug-delivery medical devices at BD. He holds several patents for his designs and several MedTech publications.
Dr. Trivikrama Reddy also participates in various social services through NATA, A Non-Profit Cultural organization serving the Telugu community in the US and Canada as Standing committee chair. (Click here to view)
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio presented Laura McClusky, Chairperson of the Environmental Advisory Committee, with a proclamation honoring her many years on the committee.
McCluskey began serving on the Parsippany Environmental Advisory Committee in 1998 and became the Committee Chair in 2008. Laura was instrumental in forming the Parsippany Bat Protection Program, facilitated the first successful “Batapolluza Fair,” and worked to encourage residents’ participation in the successful Wildlife Preserve Bat Walks.
She was influential in initiating the Plastic Bag Ban Ordinance and working with the Township on their roll-out campaign to the public.
Other projects that were completed during Laura’s tenure include the Low Phosphate and Well Head Ordinances, the Cool Cities Mayor’s Commitment, the Troy Brook Study in conjunction with Rutgers, several initiatives with the Parsippany Green Team which culminated in Bronze Certification from Sustainable Jersey, and the installation of a pollinator garden at the Parsippany Library which she will continue to nurture; and Well Head Ordinances, the Cool Cities Mayor’s Commitment, the Troy Brook Study in conjunction with Rutgers, several initiatives with the Parsippany Green Team which culminated in Bronze Certification from Sustainable Jersey, and the installation of a pollinator garden at the Parsippany Library which she will continue to nurture. In addition to serving on PEAC, Laura contributed to protecting our local environment by teaching environmental education for over 30 years at Parsippany Hills High School, where she wrote and initiated the K-12 Environmental Education Programs for the Parsippany School District, thereby influencing countless students to be better stewards of our natural resources.
“It has been my honor to serve on the Parsippany-Troy Hills Environmental Advisory Committee, and it has been a highlight of my many years working in the environmental field,” said Laura after receiving her proclamation.
“Starting with the Revolutionary soldier’s cemetery, to the one-room schoolhouse to the infamous ROCK HOUSE, its past is inspiring. And there are more modern moments, such as Geese flying over Volunteers Park, watching a sunrise over Lake Parsippany, and walking through the fall foliage at Troy Meadows, even amid the busy workers and shoppers going about their daily chores. And the future looks prosperous, as shown in our amazing schools, all the young families, and the many children happily living here. Parsippany is made of thousands of these moments strung together. The Environmental Advisory Committee has been a part of the town’s past; they are an important asset for the present and are focused on the future. Just the mere presence of this committee has created an overtone of awareness that we must move forward with progress in balance with nature. That is why it is so important to keep this committee active. This environmental committee has always been composed of the people who make up this community. This committee represents the best of our town and will always have the best interests of Parsippany at heart. Their accomplishments are everyone’s accomplishments. I wish this committee a long and prosperous future. I am an optimist. I know it is good hands, and I believe the best is yet to come,” she continued.
The Environmental Advisory Committee is a nine-member committee that serves in an advisory capacity to the Town Council regarding environmental issues which affect – or are perceived to have a potential effect on – the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills. The Committee also serves as a repository of information about the environmental issues related to the township. The mission of the Environmental Advisory Committee is to represent the Township’s people in matters relating to protecting our land, water, air, and energy. The committee is dedicated to maintaining a healthy and aesthetic environment for the residents and visitors of Parsippany-Troy Hills for current and future generations.
Dear Editor:
Frank A. Calabria Education Center
