At the most recent Parsippany Town Council meeting (October 18) a majority of the council caved to organized labor to pass Ordinance 2022:24 requiring the use of PLAs for any project over 5 million dollars. I was in the minority and part of a Goliath fight attempting to sway the majority of council members toward a position that protects the financial interests of Parsippany residents. Unlike David, we did not prevail; at least for now.
I believe my experience as a former union member (Local 333 and M.E.B.A.-2) and current employee in the public sector provides a unique and balanced perspective that is sensitive to both sides. I support the rights of all workers to earn a fair wage. Moreover, they are entitled to fair labor practices and safe working conditions. Their skills and technical abilities are admirable.
However, after listening to the majority at Tuesday night’s meeting, one might believe that hiring union workers precludes cost overruns, ensures the timely completion of projects, and guarantees quality workmanship. My experience proves different. In fact, cost overruns, and delays are so common in the public sector they are expected. Furthermore, if a newly completed project fails, the architect is likely the one accountable, not the workers.
Tuesday, October 18 was a sad night for Parsippany residents who were let down by the Mayor and the majority of the Town Council, elected to protect the fiduciary interests of the Town and its residents. My hope is that the fight to keep Parsippany fiscally solvent is not over. I encourage Parsippany residents to rally around Justin Muscella, the only council member with the courage to stand up against “Goliath,” and repeal Ordinance 2022:24 that requires the use of PLAs for contractual work above 5 million dollars.
PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, October 29, 2022, colors, lights, and food fused with joy and tradition, as Diwali – The Festival of Lights – was celebrated at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. Diwali is the most widely celebrated festival by Indians and Hindus around the world. October is being celebrated as Hindu Heritage Month, and community leaders as well as policymakers, including US President Joe Biden, are participating in lighting lamps and offering best wishes for the festivities.
Visitors were greeted with a festive and traditional welcome at the temple entrance by a colorful Rangoli, an ornate floor design made from colored powder, displaying various traditional Hindu symbols.
“It’s great to be starting the year off with family, friends, and community members,” said Dr. Raunaq Bhatt.
In preparation for the festivities, many devotees, young and old, gave their time to help create decorations, prepare for children’s Diwali, and set the stage for the most significant ritual of Diwali, ‘Annakut’. Annakut, which literally means ‘a mountain of food’, is traditionally offered to God to celebrate the beginning of the Hindu New Year.
Paul and Sharon DeGroot
“The preparation begins very early in the morning for us,” explained Seema Trambadia, a volunteer of BAPS. “The vegetarian food is traditionally arranged in tiers or steps in front of the sacred images of God. Today over 850 food items have been offered to God.”
“Diwali is my favorite festival because of the excitement that fills the air when the festival nears. Having recently migrated to the US, I did not know what to expect,” said Kishan Patel, “However, after coming to the mandir, I felt like I was back in India. I experienced my culture while getting a taste of fine Indian cuisine. Every person I met had an expression of warmth and happiness on their face. I truly felt at home.”
At mandirs across North America, the glow of the lights, bright colors, and festive ambiance at the mandirs welcomed visitors as they took in the colors of the rangoli. Visitors joyfully offered prayers for the year ahead, and also had the opportunity to partake in prasadam (sanctified food).
Diwali traditions are founded in deep spiritual meaning and encourage communities to reflect at each step of the celebrations. The ancient tradition of lighting diyas, or traditional lamps, symbolizes the transition from darkness to light. While the lamps lit on Diwali erase the physical darkness, the festival’s rich traditions, and rituals help individuals remove the darkness from within, in the forms of anger, envy, greed, arrogance, and resentment. The celebrations and traditions observed during the Diwali period present an opportunity to reflect and introspect on one’s personal, professional, and spiritual growth, and to start anew.
The multiple days of Diwali are steeped in traditions and rituals that symbolize new beginnings and a renewed commitment to family. The bright colors of Rangoli, the lamps, and the elaborate offering of vegetarian food (Annakut) to God, all mark a renewal of the good within and the goodwill towards all around us.
This year His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj celebrated Diwali and Annakut in Gondal, in the state of Gujarat in India. He blessed the devotees with a happy and peaceful new year. He also stressed that since this year is also the centennial celebration of HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj, may all be blessed to live according to his virtuous life.
The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is a spiritual, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to improving society through individual growth by fostering the Hindu ideals of faith, unity, and selfless service. Its worldwide network of 3,800 centers supports these character-building activities. Under the guidance and leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to build a community that is free of addictions as well as morally, ethically, and spiritually pure. For more details, please visit www.baps.org.
About Mahant Swami Maharaj
His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj is the sixth and current spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. He has ordained a swami by Yogiji Maharaj in 1961 and named Sadhu Keshavjivandas. As he has appointed the head (Mahant) of the Mandir in Mumbai, he became known as Mahant Swami. His devout, humble, and service-focused life earned him the innermost blessings of Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Mahant Swami Maharaj travels throughout the world inspiring people through his insightful spiritual discourses and disciplined conduct. His virtuous lifestyle and profound devotion to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and gurus are ideals toward which devotees strive. Mahant Swami Maharaj became the guru and President of BAPS upon Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s passing in 2016.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj Pramukh Swami Maharaj was the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Under his leadership, BAPS grew into an international spiritual and humanitarian organization with over 3,300 centers worldwide. He dedicated his life to the well-being of others, traveling throughout the world to foster love, peace, harmony, righteousness, faith in God, and service to humanity. With genuine care and compassion, he reached out to all members of society irrespective of class, color, or age. Recognized and respected as one of India’s greatest spiritual teachers, he lived by and promoted the principle: “In the joy of others, lies our own.”
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting was held on Tuesday, November 1.
Regular Township Council Meetings will commence at 7:00 p.m. All meetings will be held on Tuesday evenings. Council meetings are held at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. Formal action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for a meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours prior to the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to make a request for an 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
Littleton Elementary School serves 422 students in grades Prekindergarten-5.
Littleton Elementary School placed in the top 10% of all schools in New Jersey for overall test scores (math proficiency is top 10%, and reading proficiency is top 20%) for the 2018-19 school year.
The percentage of students achieving proficiency in math is 75-79% (which is higher than the New Jersey state average of 44%) for the 2018-19 school year. The percentage of students achieving proficiency in reading/language arts is 75-79% (which is higher than the New Jersey state average of 57%) for the 2018-19 school year.
The student: teacher ratio of 15:1 is higher than the New Jersey state level of 11:1.
Minority enrollment is 60% of the student body (majority Asian), which is higher than the New Jersey state average of 59% (majority Hispanic and Black).
Littleton Elementary School is located at 250 Brooklawn Drive.
PARSIPPANY — Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting on October 19, 2022, was held in the Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard, Parsippany.
The announcement is made that adequate notice of this meeting has been given and that it is being conducted in accordance with N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq. of the New Jersey “Open Public Meetings Act”
Members of the Township Council congratulate Barbara Krajkowski
PARSIPPANY — Mayor James Barberio presented Barbara Krajkowski with a Proclamation at the Township Council meeting on Tuesday, November 1.
Jane Krajkowski, best known for her starring role as Jenna Maroney in the NBC satirical comedy series 30 Rock, hugs her mom, Barbara, after Mayor James Barberio presented her with a proclamation at Parsippany Town Hall on Tuesday, November 1
Barbara Krajkowski was one of the three original founding members of the Women’s Theater Company, a non-profit organization operating under a “Special Appearance Contract” with the Actors Equity Association, in 1993.
Under Barbara’s tutelage as Executive Director and Producing Artistic Director, the company evolved from a theater group that performed only original works by women to include a broader mission to produce original and established works by women, productions of interest to women, and productions by local playwrights.
Barbara earned a BA from Fairleigh Dickinson University and an MA from William Paterson University where she served for many years as an adjunct professor.
Members of Parsippany-Troy Hills Women’s Club congratulate Barbara Krajkowski
Barbara’s honors include “2008 Outstanding Arts Advocate” from the Arts Council of the Morris Area, the “2009 Woman of the Year in Arts and Entertainment” award from Garden State Woman Magazine, and “2010 Female Legend of Morris County” from the Morris County Chamber of Commerce; and Barbara used her 30+ years of skill and experience in theater to guide this unique group to its accolades through many venues through the years, such as The Playwright Theater in Madison, The Bickford Theater in Morristown and, since 2005, it’s current home at The Parsippany Playhouse in the Senior Center.
Chief Kimker; Det. Powers; Prosecutor Carroll; First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker announce the hiring of Jenna Powers and Gregory Federici as Detectives for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. Both were officially sworn in at the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office on October 31.
Chief Kimker; Lincoln and Nicole Federici; Det. Federici; Prosecutor Carroll; First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood
Prior to joining the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Detective Powers was as a Detective for the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office since 2020, serving in the Special Victims Unit and Adult Trial Section. Before serving in that position, she was an Assistant Prosecutor for that same office from 2016 until 2020, was an attorney for a private law practice from 2015 to 2016, and was an Assistant Prosecutor for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office from 2012 to 2015 serving in the Domestic Violence Unit and Specialized Services/Megan’s Law Unit. Detective Powers possesses a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Washington College in Maryland, and a Juris Doctorate Degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Michigan. She has been assigned to the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, within the Tactical Division of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
Prior to joining the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Detective Federici was a police officer in Cranford, Union County, New Jersey since 2013, where he served in patrol operations and in the Community Policing Unit. Before serving as a police officer, Detective Federici was a Communications Officer with the Cranford Police Department from 2011 until 2013, a Personal Trainer in 2010, and a Substitute Teacher and Football Coach at Cranford High School from 2008 to 2010. Also, from 2008 to 2013, he served as a volunteer Auxiliary Police Officer for the Cranford Police Department. Det. Federici possesses an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Union County College. He has been assigned to the General Investigations Unit, within the Courts & Administration Division of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “The addition of Detective Powers and Detective Federici to our office brings a valuable cross-section of talent and experience. We welcome both and anticipate that they will contribute positively to the effectiveness of our operation.”
PARSIPPANY — Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting on November 2, 2022 will start at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard, Parsippany.
The announcement is made that adequate notice of this meeting has been given and that it is being conducted in accordance with N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq. of the New Jersey “Open Public Meetings Act”
Sean McConoughey checks out the launch pad set-up of the team mentor's rocket just before launch
PARSIPPANY —The Morris County 4-H “ResistoJets” Rocketry Club is one of only 18 middle-and-high school groups nationwide to qualify for this year’s NASA Student Launch Initiative and the only team from New Jersey. More than 50 college-age teams will also participate.
During the NASA Student Launch Initiative, or SLI, student teams design, build and launch a rocket and payload according to NASA’s specifications as part of a rocketry competition. The goal of this year’s challenge is to simulate photographing the surface of a planet. The team will design and build an 8-foot-tall rocket that will lift its payload to over 5,000 feet.
During the pandemic, club president and team Captain Sean McConoughey of Califon pursued rocketry as a hobby with his father, Luke. When he learned about the NASA challenge, he approached 4-H to sponsor the team, which includes Brian Sun of Belle Mead, Holt Englander of Morristown, Mya McConoughey of Califon, and Sahisnu Santhosh of Lake Hiawatha. New team members are welcome.
“When I first heard about the NASA Student Launch program I thought it would be a great opportunity to learn and grow after running out of ideas for my own projects,” said McConoughey. “However, we quickly found out we had to qualify first, in our case through TARC. In hindsight, I think that was a great thing that helped prepare us a lot for the Student Launch. What’s driven me over the last year, since starting the competitions, has been everything I’ve learned and the experiences I have to look forward to.”
To qualify for the 2023 NASA SLI, the ResistoJets Rocketry Club’s five members had to compete and succeed in the prerequisite American Rocketry Challenge (TARC) last year, designing a rocket to transport two eggs to a certain altitude before landing them safely on the ground — intact. Their design was successful on a competitive launch day in Virginia, which enabled the 4-H group to progress.
Now that they are officially accepted into the SLI program, the team interacts with NASA along the lines of a contractor by writing and submitting precise proposals for their rocket, specifying the design, ultimate altitude, and performance. Accurate estimation of the rocket’s performance is an important piece of the proposal, said 4-H Program Assistant Britt Wagner.
The competition will take place in April at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala. This phase of the challenge is built around the current Artemis NASA mission.
Team Photo
The team is currently in the preliminary design review phase and working to give a 30-min presentation on design and performance to the NASA team in early November. The next steps are to build a smaller-scale model of the design, then launch, test, and fine-tune it. The challenge also includes requirements for media presence for each team as well as a STEM education plan to reach more than 250 students in the area.
“This competition has the potential to transform students into well-qualified professionals for the modern-day workplace,” said Fred Kepner, activity lead for Student Launch at Marshall. “Many former students now work with NASA or our industry partners across the nation, some supporting the next chapter of space exploration, the Artemis program.”
“I am very proud of what the team has accomplished so far, and I look forward to everything that lies ahead,” McConoughey said.
These spooky individuals are waiting for “Halloween at the Hills” to open
PARSIPPANY — Halloween reared its creepy head Friday night at the annual Halloween at the Hills event. This safe and controlled holiday effort is intended to be a safe trick-or-treat event for local elementary school kids.
Jalen Mui and Andy AdubatoParsippany Hills Key Club Advisor Kristine Bushong with former Key Club Advisor Bonnie Sturm and Lauren Sturm
The Student Council, Interact Club, Kiwanis Key Club, Project Graduation, Asian American Club, Peer Buddies, Indian Cultural Club, Erase, DECA, FBLA, Drama Club, French Club, Asian American Club, Anime were among some of the clubs participating in “Halloween at the Hills”.
The children dressed in costumes had fun playing games to win candy. By the end of the evening, all the children’s bags were full to the top with a variety of candies.
The Interact Club conducted a food drive to be donated to Interfaith Food Pantry.
Members of Interact Club: Vidhi Shah, Nick Spada, Nola Anderson, Bridget Skenien, and Brielle Wallace were giving out candy to the childrenViking NationThe Interact Club conducted a food drive to be donated to Interfaith Food Pantry.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, November 2022. Click here to read the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — Democratic Representative Mikie Sherrill and her Republican challenger, former Assistant Passaic County Prosecutor Paul DeGroot, faced at the New Jersey Globe 11th District Congressional Debate on Sunday, October 23, hosted by David Wildstein.
PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, October 30, 2022, at approximately 12:18 p.m., Parsippany Police responded to the Hilton Hotel, One Hilton Court, on a report of a stabbing during the “Chiller Theatre” event.
David C. Knestrick, 47, of Norwalk, Connecticut was arrested in connection with a stabbing.
A private security officer who was working during the event was stabbed with a knife while intervening in an altercation between Knestrick and other patrons at the event.
The victim of the stabbing was transported to Morristown Medical Center for treatment, and as a result of the investigation, Knestrick was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault, a crime of the second degree; Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, a crime of the third degree; and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, a crime of the fourth degree.
The Defendant was charged on a warrant complaint and remains in custody pending a court appearance.
“The incident today is a criminal matter under investigation by the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department and Morris County Sheriff’s Department. We appreciate the concern of those asking about the status of our friend and colleague affected, but please understand he has a family and it is not for us to discuss anything regarding his health,” organizers said in a statement on social media.
Chiller Theatre was a three-day event held at the Hilton. Friday, October 28 through Sunday, October 30. The autograph-signing convention draws thousands around Halloween and again in the spring to the Hilton.
Police have not yet given details about what sparked the altercation or how many people were involved.
If anyone has any information related to this investigation, they are encouraged to call the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department at (973) 263-4300 or the Major Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200.
Editor’s Note: An arrest or signing 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.
Boonton Ironworks, built in 1830, was largely responsible for the existence of the Town of Boonton. The large rolling mill produced iron products which were shipped via the Morris Canal to Elizabeth and Jersey City. A 2021 grant was approved for completion of a preservation plan and an archaeological assessment involving remnants of the old blast furnaces
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County is celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund by launching an interactive, online story map of all historic sites found in the county, specifically offering background information, photos, video, and geographic data on all sites that benefited from county historic preservation grants.
“We hope this story map can make the public more aware of the many historic treasures that are in our midst, and also acknowledge the strong support the Commissioners have shown toward historic preservation that contributes to the high quality of life here in Morris County,” said Ray Chang, Historic Preservation Program Coordinator for the Morris County Office of Planning and Preservation.
The story map was created by the Office of Planning and Preservation to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the grant program.
The Historic Preservation Trust Fund was established by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners after voters overwhelmingly approved a referendum on November 5, 2002, to allow a portion of the Morris County Open Space & Farmland Preservation Trust Fund to be used for historic preservation
Morris County has now awarded 512 grants amounting to $45,945,925 to assist in the preservation, protection, and restoration of 122 historic properties since 2003 when grants were first issued for protecting historic sites through Morris County’s Preservation Trust Fund. The sites are located in 34 towns around Morris County.
The King Store Museum, an 1825 general store and post office at Drakesville Historic Park in the Ledgewood section of Roxbury Township. The site has received 17 grants for planning and restoration since the Historic Preservation Trust Program began
“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.
“Almost everywhere you go in Morris County, you can point to a place, a building, or a monument that represents a specific era in American history, from the days Native Americans lived here and Europeans began to settle in, to the American Revolution, the industrial revolution and beyond. Morris County has a wealth of sites and structures embodying the American story, and our trust fund has helped to preserve that,” he added.
The Little Red Schoolhouse in Florham Park has received 10 grants from the fund since it began
The story map is based in part on digital mapping data provided by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Geographic Information System, as well as data on historical properties compiled by the New Jersey Historic Preservation Office. A legend is provided identifying various levels of historical determinations afforded different sites.
However, the story map dives deepest into Morris County historic sites, specifically the 122 sites afforded grants through the Historic Preservation Trust Fund over the past 20 years. Using the GIS mapping, visitors may navigate to all 122 Morris County sites easily and view photos, background information, and, where available, videos and audio presentations that provide a fuller understanding of the site’s significance.
The Historic Preservation Trust Fund considers grants for the acquisition, stabilization, rehabilitation, restoration, or preservation of historic resources by municipalities, qualified non-profits, and the county. Many sites have received multiple grants over the years for various stages of preservation, from planning to actual construction.
Applications are reviewed by the volunteer members of the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund Review Board, and the board ultimately recommends each year to the County Commissioners what projects should be provided grants and the amount of each grant.
The new story map introduces visitors to the 11-member review board. Click here to view the story map.
Historic resources must be listed or certified as eligible for listing on the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places, in order to be eligible for the program.
The Seward House, and 1865 farm house in Mount Olive, was among the sites approved in 2022 for grant dollars and is currently undergoing renovations
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella visited the “2nd Annul DEA National Take Back event” held on Saturday, October 29. The collection of unwanted/unused medication was held at Morris Hills Shopping Center (outside Harmon Face Value). Pictured with Musella are Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Remo D’Alessandro and Morris County Sheriff’s Office, Detective Sergeant Craig Brooks.
PARSIPPANY — Liquid Church, one of New Jersey’s fastest-growing churches, is raising awareness and funds for its signature Clean Water Cause by hosting the Run For Rwanda 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run on Saturday, October 22.
“Rwanda is a country with an ambitious goal – to be the first in Africa with 100% access to clean water. Clean water has the potential to transform lives, and here at Liquid Church, we’re committed to helping Rwandans reach this milestone,” said Tim Lucas, lead pastor and founder of Liquid Church. “Right now approximately 25% of Rwandans have no other choice but to drink dirty water that carries waterborne diseases and makes families ill. By hosting the Run For Rwanda, we’re not only drawing attention to this crisis, but we’re raising funds that can be used to effect real change in Rwanda.”
Liquid and its overseas partner Living Water International have been working together in Rwanda since 2015. To date, Liquid has helped to open over 360 clean water wells in 9 nations, bringing clean water to over 130,000 people across the globe. Of those wells, 153 clean water wells have been opened throughout Rwanda. Funds raised through the Run For Rwanda on October 22 will help to complete the WASH program (water access, sanitation, and hygiene) in the Ruhango and Busasamana regions of the country.
“We invited the community to join us to run, walk, or even bring a stroller to participate with little kids. Everyone is welcome. No matter how you participate, when we come together, we can make a big impact for this beautiful ‘land of a thousand hills!’” added Lucas. “For the millions of thirsty people in Rwanda, safe water can ultimately transform their health, safety, education, and livelihoods!”
The Run For Rwanda is a chip-timed race, and all ages, stages, and abilities are welcome to lace up and join the 5K or 1 Mile Fun Run that will take place on the wide open roads surrounding Liquid Church’s location at 299 Webro Road.
To learn more about Run For Rwanda or to get answers to Frequently Asked Questions click here. To learn more about Liquid Church’s Clean Water Cause click here.
Liquid Church is one of New Jersey’s fastest-growing Christian churches. Officially launched in 2007 by Lead Pastor Tim Lucas, the church’s vision is to “Saturate the State with the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” with seven physical campuses in Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, and Union Counties. Each week, about 5,000 people experience Liquid Church’s worship services in New Jersey and around the globe through Church Online. As part of its global outreach, Liquid provides clean drinking water to those in need, with hundreds of completed wells in Africa and Central America. Liquid Church’s innovative approaches to outreach and ministry have been spotlighted by CNN,FOX News, and TIME magazine. For more information click here.
I am encouraging voters to support Andy Choffo, Jack Raia, and Yvonne Ferise for the Parsippany Board of Education. I have known Andy for many years, having had children of similar ages in the Parsippany School District. Andy and I share a similar perspective on a substantial number of topics, including the impact of education on children and society. I am confident that Andy’s running mates share these points of view.
Andy, Jack, and Yvonne want a school district that will focus on student achievement. The Parsippany school district recently posted student achievement results. The decline in student learning is alarming. You can go to the district website and view the presentation by clicking here.
The Parsippany Board of Education needs to have the administration focus on educating students. I am confident that as Board Members, Andy, Jack, and Yvonne will concentrate on student achievement, while providing a commonsense approach to educating children. They will also ensure that all students are provided an equal opportunity to succeed, directing resources where necessary.
Parsippany needs volunteers like ANDY CHOFFO, JACK RAIA, and YVONNE FERISE on the Board of Education. Please vote for Board of Education rows 1, 2, and 3 on Tuesday, November 8.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System, Lake Hiawatha Branch at 68 Nokomis Avenue, hosted its first-ever After Hours Halloween party for children on Friday, October 21, 2022.
The After Hours Halloween party was a “monster mashing” success with over two hundred people in attendance.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library, located at 449 Halsey Road
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System is among 160 libraries nationwide to conduct digital literacy training funded by Public Library Association (PLA) Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive. The Public Library Association Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive, supported by AT&T, provides support to libraries of all sizes to conduct digital literacy training in their communities and help close the digital divide.
With the help of a local instructor who is fluent in Gujarati and Hindi, the Library will offer basic digital skills classes in both of these languages.
“The mission of libraries has always been about equitable access to information, literacy, learning, and culture. In the age of COVID-19, this mission has only become vital as libraries have played a critical role in keeping communities connected and online,” said PLA President Maria McCauley. “A 2020 PLA survey found that about 88% of public libraries provide some form of digital literacy support, but only 42% offer formal classes. Staffing and funding were the top barriers to providing technology training. AT&T’s investment with PLA and public libraries nationwide will boost access to digital literacy skills for the most vulnerable in our communities.” PLA’s free training site, Digitallearn.org, helps community members build skills and confidence using technology. Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System will help patrons utilize these resources in an upcoming workshop that will be conducted in person, in Gujarati and Hindi, at the Main Library on November 12 and December 10.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System, Main Library is located at 449 Halsey Road.
Membership Co-Chairman Janice Carrubba, new members Diana Craig and Pamela Newman and Membership Co-Chairman, Ginny Scala
Photo by Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills
PARSIPPANY — The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills October General Meeting, held on Monday, October 24, Membership Co-Chairs Ginny Scala and Janice Carrubba officially installed Diana Craig and Pamela Newman into the Woman’s Club.
Diana and Pamela join an enthusiastic group of volunteers brought together in fellowship and service to promote projects that produce positive outcomes in the areas of education, culture, and civic betterment of the community
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC), which are the largest volunteer women’s service organizations in the country/state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. General Meetings are heldthe fourth Monday of each month September through April at 7:00 pm at the Parsippany Fire & Rescue Building at 100 Centerton Road, Parsippany. If you would like to attend our next General Meeting to find out more about what we do, call Ginnyat 973-887-0336 or e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com.
Check us out on the web www.parsippanywomansclub.org .or follow the club on FACEBOOK or Twitter.
Dear Editor:
Visitors were greeted with a festive and traditional welcome at the temple entrance by a colorful Rangoli, an ornate floor design made from colored powder, displaying various traditional Hindu symbols.
To qualify for the 2023 NASA SLI, the ResistoJets Rocketry Club’s five members had to compete and succeed in the prerequisite American Rocketry Challenge (TARC) last year, designing a rocket to transport two eggs to a certain altitude before landing them safely on the ground — intact. Their design was successful on a competitive launch day in Virginia, which enabled the 4-H group to progress.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, November 2022. 
