MORRIS COUNTY — Acting Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Chief of Detectives Christoph K. Kimker, Mount Olive Police Chief Stephen Beecher, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Richard Pantina, the Morris County Board of Commissioners, and Morris County Crimestoppers announce two Gun Buy Back events are scheduled to be held in Morris County.
The County and locally-run “Guns for Cash” events will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on:
Saturday, May 14, 2022 Budd Lake Fire Department
378 Route 46
Budd Lake, NJ 07828
Sunday, May 15, 2022 Parsippany Police Athletic League (PAL) Building
33 Baldwin Road
Parsippany, NJ 07054
New Jersey residents are invited to turn in firearms with “no questions asked,” and will receive as much as $300 per weapon for up to three guns. Payouts will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. This program will accept firearms from all persons including juveniles without requiring the disclosure of names or other personal information.
Those looking to surrender firearms are asked to bring them to the above locations wrapped in plastic or contained in a box. Police officers will be stationed at each buyback location to collect and secure the guns.
The Morris County Gun Buy Back Amnesty Program will be funded with a total of $60,000.00. Below is a table detailing the funding sources and the total amount of each contribution.
FUNDING SOURCE
TOTAL CONTRIBUTION
Morris County Commissioners (County ARPA Funds)
$20,000.00
Morris County Crimestoppers Commission
$10,000.00
Morris County Prosecutor’s Office (CLETA)
$20,000.00
New Jersey Office of the Attorney General
$10,000.00
TOTAL
$60,000.00
Acting Attorney General Platkin said, “Reducing gun violence in our communities is paramount, and gun buybacks are vital for removing firearms from circulation before they can be used to take a life. We proudly support counties and local law enforcement in buyback efforts that advance our shared goal of bringing an end to gun violence and restoring peace to communities across New Jersey.”
Prosecutor Carroll said, “I would personally like to thank our funding partners – Acting Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, Morris County Crimestoppers, and the Morris County Board of Commissioners – for their leadership and support of the program. The Buy Back program is ‘no questions asked,’ and a great way for law enforcement and New Jersey residents to work together to reduce the number of unsecured guns circulating in the community.”
Sheriff Gannon said, “Reducing gun violence necessitates a cooperative response. Every gun we will collect represents a gun taken off the streets. This is all about Safety in our communities. Many times, people pass away and the family is left with firearms in the home that can be turned in to us with no questions asked. I applaud our partners at the state, county, and local levels for helping ensure a successful Program.”
Morris County Commissioner Douglas Cabana, the board liaison to Law and Public Safety, said “This program is designed to prevent unwanted firearms in Morris County households from landing on the street. The aim is public safety, and it is a suitable use of American Rescue Plan Act funding obtained by the county.”
Mount Olive Police Chief Beecher said, “The Mount Olive Police Department is pleased to partner with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the Morris County Sheriff’s Department to offer our community a no-hassle and if wanted, anonymous way to get rid of unwanted guns.”
The last Gun Buy Back program in Morris County, held in March 2013, resulted in the surrender of 600 weapons and paid out a total of $49,550.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, and Jefferson Township Police Department Chief Paul Castimore, announce the arrest of William Mickel, 68, of Lake Hopatcong.
The defendant has been charged with one count of Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(a)(i), a crime of the Second Degree; and one count of Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(iii), a Third Degree crime. It is alleged that on or about January 25, Defendant was in possession of numerous videos and material depicting children in various prohibited sexual acts, constituting possession of child sexual abuse material.
In addition, it is alleged that Mickel was in possession of the above materials and that he distributed the same. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office was first notified and alerted by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).
Mickel was arrested on the above charges on April 22, and after his arrest, he was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility. Upon being formally advised of the charges against him, he was released pursuant to Criminal Justice Reform and is pending a Pre-Indictment Conference on May 31.
Prosecutor Carroll would like to thank the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, the Jefferson Police Department, the Chester Township Police Department, and members of the New Jersey State Police Task Force on Child Sexual Abuse for their efforts in the investigation and arrest of this defendant.
Editor’s Note: An arrest or the 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 — The first day of May was welcomed in with beautiful weather, and the kickoff to this year’s Morris County Challenger Little League, a baseball league established for disabled children. It was nice to see the excitement on the faces of so many special needs athletes (Challengers) as they arrived at the Par-Troy West Little League Field in Parsippany, accompanied by equally excited “Buddy-Coaches.” The “Buddy-Coaches,” are players, siblings, parents, or guardians of all ages, there to stand aside from the Challenger player, and when needed, function as their arms and legs, or provide whatever assistance is required. These resolute volunteer “buddy-coaches” provide these children with a positive and safe environment.
Pete Agostini, Christian Agostini, of Denville, with Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani.
It was great to see both the Parsippany Hills High School Baseball and Softball Teams, and Parsippany’s Little Viking Cheerleaders also come out to support his worthy effort. They would also be instrumental later in the afternoon when the more advanced Challengers players face off against a formidable opponent, the PHHS Baseball and Softball team for a special game with special rules. So far, the Challengers are undefeated.
Mayor Barberio, Ruben Fuentes, and Frank Neglia with PHHS Baseball and Softball TeamsMayor Barberio, Ruben Fuentes, and Frank Neglia with Little Viking Cheerleaders.
But before that special game, the members of the Par-Troy Little League, and “buddy coaches,” assist Challenger players in an earlier game, which can prove extremely exciting for all involved. It was a busy afternoon. Most participants are from Morris County and a few from neighboring counties. The League does include quite a few Parsippany special needs residents. The age of participation is 5 years to 21 years old, but the 21-year-old must be attending a school to participate, and the program is split up between seventy players comprising 4 T-ball teams, and 2 Major teams. Of course, age and skill level are considered when comprising the teams.
PHHS Player Derek King, Michael Greenwaldt, of Randolph, and Coach Alan Louison of Florham Park
Par-Troy West Little League (PTWLL) President, and local council member, Frank Neglia oversees this program as well as the PTWLL, and shares an equal commitment to both. Despite being humble about his efforts, he clearly took immense pride in his part in this very worthy and noble cause. Neglia explained that the Challenger League was officially established in 1999, thanks to the efforts of Ruben Fuentes, a special needs individual himself, who was an active participant in helping to organize the day’s activities.
Michael Bertrum, President of the Challenger League was on the field coordinating and overseeing many of the activities, along with PHHS Baseball and Softball Coaches, Dan Olsen and Pete Anzelone, and Wayne Benvenuto, Manager of Athletics.
Local dignitaries who came out to support the Challengers included Mayor James R. Barberio and Council Member Loretta Gragnani.
For an application and/or more information on the Challengers Little League click here.
A great afternoon was had by all. And, by the way, the Challengers remain undefeated.
Ruben Fuentes gives instructions prior to the special game.Batter Up
PARSIPPANY — The University of the Cumberlands chapter of Sigma Pi Sigma held its induction ceremony on April 19. One of the students inducted was Hailey Budney of Lake Hiawatha.
Four new members were inducted into the chapter: Mr. Jacob Thorton Blankenship – senior, an applied physics major, Ms. Hailey Christine Budney – junior, physics major, Mr. Courtland James Ellis – senior, physics minor, and Mr. Bradley James Faulkner – senior, a physics major.
Chapter officers for the 2022-2023 academic year were elected as follows: President – Ms. Hailey Budney and Vice-President – Mr. Bradley Faulkner.
Sigma Pi Sigma is the national physics honor society. Chapters are restricted to colleges and universities of recognized standing that offer a strong physics major. Students elected to membership must attain high standards of general scholarship and outstanding achievement in physics. Founded in 1921, Sigma Pi Sigma is an affiliated society of the American Institute of Physics and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Sigma Pi Sigma is also a member of the Association of College Honor Societies. The Cumberlands chapter was installed as the 469th chapter in May 1998.
University of the Cumberlands is one of the largest and most affordable private universities in Kentucky. Located in Williamsburg, Kentucky, Cumberlands is an institution of regional distinction offering quality undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and online degree programs. Learn more at ucumberlands.edu.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany’s bats are enjoying a BOOM in the housing market this spring, thanks to dedicated volunteers from the Parsippany Bat Protection Project (PBPP), an initiative of the Parsippany Green Team!
Luca Fariello (left), Lisa Plevin, and Srini Eda (right) straighten a shagbark hickory sapling in Volunteers Park, Parsippany. Photo Credit: Parsippany Bat Protection Project
Visitors to Par-Troy’s Volunteer Park, Lake Parsippany Park, Jannarone Park, and Lenni Lenape Park at Knoll Country Club will see new native saplings and/or “bat houses” attached to structures, as part of the PBPP’s habitat creation efforts. The four new bat houses, built as a volunteer project by Parsippany’s Boy Scout Troop 173, are actually nursery boxes for bats, each with enough room to support a maternal colony of up to 300 bats! The houses are painted black to attract sunlight, and the internal structure is grooved to give nursing bats plenty of places to “hang out” with their offspring. Parsippany Township officials supported these bat habitat projects at local parks.
Luca Fariello and Tom Bluj (on the ground) find the perfect spot for a new bat house at Jannarone Park, Parsippany. Photo Credit: Parsippany Bat Protection Project
The newly-planted native saplings, six shagbark hickory (carya ovata) trees, are part of the PBPP’s longer-term plan to create bat-friendly habitat. When mature, these trees feature loose plates of bark which are ideal to shelter roosting bats, and which may be more attractive to several of New Jersey’s bat species, those that prefer naturally-occurring tree crevices rather than man-made structures. New Jersey is home to NINE species of bat (6 year-round and 3 migratory) including the endangered Indiana bat.
The bat house plans and tree recommendations were provided to the PBPP by Rutgers University’s Wildlife Conservation and Management Program at wildlife.rutgers.edu. Researchers from Rutgers visited Parsippany to conduct educational programs in 2021, and for 2022 have already scheduled two Bat Walks to be held at Wildlife Preserves’ Troy Meadows in Parsippany. The popular Bat Walk programs offer an entertaining presentation followed by a short walk at dusk, where participants use a special bat acoustic device that can identify the species flying overhead in real-time.
Volunteer Luca Fariello secures a new bat house in Lenni Lenape Park at Knoll Country Club. Photo Credit: Parsippany Bat Protection Project
Bats are one of the most misunderstood, yet important species on our planet. They perform an invaluable ecological function by eating up to 3,000 insects per bat per night. This dramatically reduces the need for pesticides and produces an estimated value to the country’s agricultural industry of over $22 billion per year!
Unfortunately, numerous bat species may face extinction, due to the deadly White-nose Syndrome fungus which has killed millions of these vulnerable creatures.
The Parsippany Bat Protection Project, as an initiative of the Parsippany Green Team, aims to educate residents and business owners about the importance of bats in the ecosystem, provide local bats with suitable habitat, and humanely reduce conflicts between bats and people. The Project enjoys the support of our local officials and the Township of Parsippany and a broad-based coalition of residents, educators, and nonprofit groups.
To learn more about the Parsippany Bat Protection Project, and how YOU can help Parsippany’s bats by hanging a bat house or planting native vegetation, please visit the following links:
PARSIPPANY — Child Abuse Prevention Month and the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany kicked off the campaign by setting up pinwheel gardens and displays, with the first at the Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Hall, followed by several other displays around town to help raise awareness in our community by turning your attention to the importance of ensuring great childhoods for all children because our children are our future.
Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen places the final “Pinwheel” at Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Hall designating April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Also pictured is Commissioner Stephen Shaw, Kiwanis member and Councilman Justin Musella, Councilman Frank Neglia, Karen DeChristopher, Nicolas Limanov, Julie Scarano-Debrossy, and Mayor James Barberio. Julie is holding Charlie May and Joey Elizabeth
In addition, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio issued a Proclamation designating April as “Child Abuse Prevention Month.”
The theme of the April 2022 Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month is “Growing a Better Tomorrow for All Children, Together.” Throughout CAP Month, Prevent Child Abuse America and Prevent Child Abuse-New Jersey used a community garden metaphor to reinforce the message that “Every day, we help families and children thrive.”
Kiwanis member and Councilman Justin Musella, Kiwanis member Susan Slaughery, Council President Michael dePierro, Karen DeChristopher, Mayor James Barberio, and Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani and Councilman Frank Neglia
All throughout April, you will see pinwheels on display around the Parsippany and Lake Hiawatha areas as the symbol of this very thought…that all children deserve a great childhood because they are our future.
And while the pinwheel can do many things — bring smiles, lift spirits, call for healthy starts for all children — the one thing it cannot do is move on its own. Be the force that makes it move, bringing about real change for children in the United States. Protecting our children is everyone’s job…it’s your turn to make a difference!
Since 1983, April has been a time to acknowledge the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse. As we look at the faces of the many children in our communities and think about all of the children around the world that suffer at the hands of others, let’s remember that April may be Child Abuse Prevention Month, but unfortunately abuse happens every day. That is why every year, during the month of April, communities across the country come together to focus on this startling issue and on the need for widespread prevention and public awareness campaigns to reduce the number of children who, sadly, are victims of abuse. Over 750,000 children were victims of child abuse, and over 1,800 children died as a result of abuse or neglect.
Karen DeChristopher, Kiwanis Club’s Director of of “Young Children Priority One” programs has led this campaign for the past eight years explained, “As an organization that focuses on children, there is one goal that we are looking to achieve…to raise awareness of the many ways people can get involved in the fight against child abuse: First, we can get educated, so you can learn to recognize the signs of child abuse, so you can be that one person with the courage to step up for these children and report abuse when you suspect it. Secondly, you can volunteer or support your child advocacy centers (Prevent Child Abuse-NJ) by calling to determine how you can support them because every children’s advocacy center can benefit from your support for the programs and services they provide to child victims of abuse and neglect. And lastly, but most importantly we must help break the silence surrounding child abuse by raising awareness and spreading the word. These children deserve a voice because this problem has been overlooked for far too long and you can open the doors on this crime of secrecy because we can all make a difference for these children.”
Morris County Commissioners Doug Cabana, John Krickus, Stephen Shaw, Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen, Karen DeChristopher and Commissioner Deborah Smith
April 2022 was also proclaimed Child Abuse Prevention Month by Morris County Government Commissioners to bring more focus to the societal threats posed by child abuse and neglect. Thank you Karen DeChristopher, Director of the Young Children Priority One Program for Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany for joining the ceremony.
Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen presents Karen DeChristopher with a proclamation
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have declared child abuse and neglect to be a serious public health threat with long-lasting, negative impacts on every victim. The most effective way to combat child abuse and neglect is to increase awareness and report abuse; encourage nurturing parenting practices, and provide support to everyone who may need help raising their children in a healthy environment.
To learn more about what you can do to help prevent child abuse, contact Pamela Stalcup, Director of Development & Communications for Prevent Child Abuse-NJ at (732) 246-8060 or click here.
Members of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany surround around the Pinwheel display at Empire Diner
Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. It is not religious-based or partisan in any way. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets every Thursday at 7:15 a.m. at the Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46. New members are always welcome. (Click here for more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany).
PARSIPPANY — PurpleStride New Jersey 2022 was held on Saturday, April 30 in the former Mack-Cali Campus (now Onyx Equities Campus).
The original goal for PurpleStride New Jersey 2022 was to raise $405,000 and as of the time of this article, $506,871 has been raised. Team Love for Lou! raised $2,965.30.
Lou and Fran and the entire Contaldi Family have been amazed, humbled, and blown away (the list could go on) by the support their friends and neighbors have shown them over the last six months. Let’s take that support to the next level.
Lou Contaldi with Matthew Pierone of Gourmet Cafe. Gourmet Cafe donated the purple T-shirts given to every attendee of Team Love for Lou
PanCAN PurpleStride is the ultimate event to end pancreatic cancer, and we want you to take local action to make an impact nationwide. This is the movement to change the lives of pancreatic cancer patients and your participation and fundraising make all the difference!
This is the first time pancreatic cancer survivors, families, caregivers, researchers, and supporters will take steps together through 60 PanCAN PurpleStride events across the nation. Help us turn the country purple and honor everyone affected by the disease on our One Big Day.
You’re making a difference in the lives of pancreatic cancer patients
Pancreatic cancer patients and families are counting on you – PurpleStride is the #1 way we raise money to end pancreatic cancer. Every dollar you raise goes to fund large-scale, groundbreaking research and patient-facing programs like PanCAN Patient Services.
“If you’ve lived or grown up in Parsippany, there’s a good chance that you’ve met Lou Contaldi somewhere. Lou has always been a beacon of generosity and a fixture of the town, whether he was offering some landscaping advice, coaching a PTE Little League or PAL basketball team, or bringing over a tray of sausage and peppers to a community event. He’s always happy to help with a big smile and an even bigger laugh,” said Chris Mazzarella.
Lou completed his 17th Chemotherapy treatment at Morristown Memorial recently. His next CT scan will be Mid May and our prayers are for continued health and well-being. Lou is strong and fighting hard each and every day.
MORRIS COUNTY — The American Cancer Society of Morris County’s Relay for Life will take place on Saturday, May 21 at Parsippany Hills High School at 20 Rita Drive in Parsippany. The event will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Registration starts at 3:00 p.m.
Western’s Angel’s For Hope 2021
The Relay for Life is a noncompetitive walk event to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society’s fight against cancer. The Theme for this year’s Relay is Star Wars. Attendees can come dressed in Star Wars attire and bring Star Wars games and accessories.
The day and night will be filled with music courtesy of a DJ and guest entertainers. There are many activities including Contests, Corn Hole, and Flag Football. There will also be themed laps from start to finish to help keep Relayers going through the event because “cancer does not sleep.”
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 entire event is a way of fighting back 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.
PARSIPPANY — In celebration of Arbor Day, Joe Jannarone, Sr., was the guest speaker at the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany on May 28.
Every year Joe gathers a group of teens to package pine tree seedlings
Joe told the club how the Arbor Day program has been continuing in the Township of Parsippany for 45 years. Every year Joe gathers a group of teens to package pine tree seedlings. Each tree seeding is carefully bagged with peat moss. The seedlings are then distributed to every second grader in the Parsippany school system on Arbor Day, May 29. Everyone in attendance at the meeting also received seedlings.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Connie Keller presents Joe Jannarone, Sr., a proclamation on behalf of Senator Joe Pennachio and the Assembly
Joe has dedicated his life to the beautification of Parsippany. He is the reason that Parsippany is one of only two cities in New Jersey that have been designated as a Tree City.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio presents Joe Jannarone, Sr., with a proclamation as Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Connie Keller looks on
Joe received proclamations for his dedication and significant contributions to Parsippany from Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Morris County Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo, and Senator Joe Pennacchio.
Morris County Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo presents Jannarone with a proclamation on behalf of the Morris County CommissionersKiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Connie Keller presents Joe Jannarone, Sr., a proclamation on behalf of Senator Joe Pennacchio and the AssemblyJoe Jannarone, Sr. with Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi
Jannarone has been a member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany since October 10, 1993.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Connie Keller, Joe Jannarone, Jr., Joe Jannarone, Sr., and Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio
PARSIPPANY — The Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company (Parsippany Fire District Two), in partnership with the Veterans of Rainbow Lakes, is pleased to announce the annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 28.
The parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Rainbow Lakes Firehouse, 1 Rainbow Trail, and end at the Rainbow Lakes ball field off Oakdale Road where a special memorial service honoring America’s fallen will be held.
We hope you mark your calendar to attend this time-honored event that has been around Rainbow for several decades. The parade and the Memorial Day ceremony and service will take place from 10:30 a.m to roughly 11:45 a.m.
Following the firehouse will host an open house with a lunch bbq. These events are open to all residents of fire district two. Thank you for your continued support of our fire company.
The Rainbow Lakes Fire Company members and the Veterans of Rainbow Lakes would look forward to seeing you and your family, in person, on May 28.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Parks Program, an interdisciplinary institute at County College of Morris (CCM), is venturing to Yellowstone National Park with its first-ever student group this month.
Seven CCM students were competitively selected for this once-in-a-lifetime, free opportunity to visit the national park from May 14 through May 19. They are sharing the experience with three CCM professors who are collaborating onsite to teach art history, biology, and storytelling in the amazing outdoor classroom.
“We’re very excited for this interdisciplinary trip to Yellowstone National Park that will serve as our learning laboratory,” says Dr. Brian Sahotsky, professor in the Art & Design department and one of the program organizers. “This trip in itself is not a program completion requirement but rather a capstone for students to investigate several disparate aspects of what makes the conservation of natural lands so great.”
The four-day journey begins with seeing the incredible magnitude of Yellowstone and learning the history of artists, naturalists, and explorers. Sahotsky will lead the group through Artists Point, Yellowstone Falls, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone providing opportunities for students to journal and sketch to capture the beautiful scenery.
Later that week, Professor John Soltes, an award-wining journalist teaching in the Communication department at CCM, will provide an overview of the cultural histories and discuss the major issues facing Yellowstone in the 21st Century. “We will also meet Dr. Shane Doyle, a member of the Crow Nation, and visit one of the tribe’s ancestral spots,” says Soltes.
The itinerary also includes looking for wildlife, such as bears, wolves, bison, elk, and moose, in Yellowstone’s Hayden Valley and Lamar Valley. CCM Biology Professor Samantha Gigliotti will use her many years of experience conducting educational sessions about wildlife conservation to delve into this topic in Wonderland.
“Yellowstone National Park is one of the few places left in the United States where you can still see large mammals that once roamed the majority of our country,” says Gigliotti. “Our students will be presented with this amazing opportunity to learn about these incredible animals’ biology and life history and immerse themselves in the landscapes that support them.”
This unique adventure wraps up with seeing the Yellowstone Caldera, the supervolcano that last erupted about 640,000 years ago creating a 30 x 45-mile landform, and also visiting a variety of geyser basins including Old Faithful.
“Ever since I was a child, I’ve always been an advocate for protecting the Earth’s diverse ecosystems,” says Peter Balluffi-Fry, an International Studies major from Mountain Lakes, who will be going on the trip. “Being able to explore and learn about the national park that inspired Americans to begin protecting our country’s natural environment is what ultimately motivated me to apply. “I’m looking forward to witnessing all of Yellowstone’s natural, majestic beauty first-hand, from the Grand Prismatic to the bison and bears that call Yellowstone home.
CCM students interested in going on the trip submitted an application with an essay explaining why they wanted to travel to Yellowstone. According to Sahotsky, “It was competitive with many more applicants than slots we had available.”
CCM is currently ranked #1 in New Jersey for best associate degrees and in the top 1.8 percent of the best community colleges nationwide by Intelligent. The college continues to maintain its #1 position in the state in PayScale’s “Best Community Colleges in New Jersey by Salary Potential,” a distinction it has held for five years in a row.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling hosted an Open House to show off her newly renovated office suite.
The open house was attended by Senator Anthony Bucco, a representative of Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Sheriff Jim Gannon, County Clerk Ann Grossi, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen, and County Administrator John Bonanni.
Surrogate Darling gave special thanks to the teams that brought the project to fruition, specifically Buildings & Grounds, Information Technology, the designer, and her Chief of Staff, Christina Ramirez.
Reverend Herman Scott opened the ceremony with a blessing for the new office. The Surrogate’s office was temporarily relocated to a small space for several months while the office suite was taken down to the outer walls and concrete floors.
It had been over 30 years since the suite was renovated and the work was mandated by the county with the caveat that Surrogate Darling be given time in the office before renovations in order to choose the most practical layout for the office now and into the foreseeable future.
“It was time to redesign and rework the office to create an efficient workflow with easy, welcoming access for the public to our office,” said Surrogate Darling. “We added a layer of safety and security for both the public and our staff based on the U.S. Marshall’s assessment for courthouse security.”
The renovation, part of the County’s overall infrastructure maintenance, also coincides with the overall modernization efforts Surrogate Darling has brought to the Surrogate’s Office since 2020 when she became Surrogate.
The Surrogate and her team’s overall goal is to offer the highest level of customer service and respond to the needs of the community by offering easy access and convenience.
The Surrogate’s Office is responsible for the probate of Wills, oversight of the administration of guardianships of incapacitated adults, and guardianships of minors, including money management for these guardianships. The Surrogate also oversees the adoption process in Morris County.
For more information on the Morris County Surrogate’s office click here.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System will no longer charge overdue fines for items owned by Parsippany Libraries returned past their due date. In addition, all previously existing fines for the Main Library and/or Branch Libraries of items returned overdue will be waived.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library is proud to join the hundreds of libraries nationwide that are ensuring free and open access to library materials by going fine-free.
Parsippany is the third Library in Morris County to enact this policy.
Fines have been proven to discourage and decrease library use, and disproportionately affect low-income and minority communities. Libraries that have eliminated fines have seen library usage and material return rates increase.
Books, DVDs, and audiobooks owned by Parsippany libraries will no longer accrue fines if returned late. All previous overdue fines on Parsippany Library materials will be forgiven, so any customer who has overdue items at home can return those materials to the library, and all accumulated late fees or book replacement costs will be waived.
They encourage all Parsippany residents to use the library, and we are excited to welcome back the members of our community who have been unable to access library resources in the past due to overdue fines. For more information click here.
*Please note that this only applies to items owned by the Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System. Items belonging to other libraries may still accrue fines.
PARSIPPANY — 99 Everett Road is a single-family home and has four bedrooms and three bathrooms. This property has a lot size of 7,841 square feet. It was listed by Andrea Martone, Realty Executives Platinum. It was sold on March 1 for $805,000.
MORRIS COUNTY — On April 28, in recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week 2022, members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office joined leaders of the law enforcement and the victim advocate community and held a virtual conference to recognize crime victims.
Speakers included Anthony DeVincenzo, M.A., a retired lieutenant from the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office who is currently a Training Specialist with the Northeast Regional Children’s Advocacy Center; Commissioner Deputy Director John Krickus; and Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll. Additionally, a victim speaker recounted her domestic violence victimization experience in order that her story may provide courage for others who are dealing with similar situations.
The virtual conference can be viewed by clicking here to visit the Morris County NJ YouTube page.
Attendees included Diana Kurlander, Vice President, Client Services of JBWS Safety, Support & Solutions Abuse; Maria Lagattuta, Director of the Morris County Family Justice Center / JBWS; Maria Vinci Savettiere, Esq., Executive Director of Deirdre’s House, The Center for Morris County’s Child Victims; Mirella Diaz, Associate Director / MDT Coordinator / Clinician of Deirdre’s House, and Morris Plains Police Chief Michael Koroski.
Marking its 41st anniversary this year, Congress annually declares one week in April as Crime Victims’ Rights Week to honor and recognize crime victims. National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is being observed from April 24-30, 2022. The theme this year is “Rights, Access, and Equity for all Victims.” The theme underscores the importance of enforcing victim rights, expanding access to services, and ensuring equity and inclusion for all victims.
John Krickus
Commissioner Deputy Director Krickus presented the Proclamation recognizing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week approved by the Board of Commissioners.
In keeping with this year’s theme, Morris County Prosecutor Carroll dedicated a stepping stone near the victims’ tree as a symbol for victims taking the first step to healing. The victims’ tree was lit to serve as a beacon of hope during the week. In addition, a wreath adorned with a “2022 in Recognition and Remembrance” ribbon has been placed next to the tree.
Colonel Pat Callahan and Major Phillip Buck as well as other ranking Officers of the New Jersey State Police also attended and provided their support and commitment to the protection and expansion of victim’s rights efforts at all levels of law enforcement.
Morris County Sheriff James Gannon added his perspective that victim’s rights programs are critical in ensuring public trust in the criminal justice system and motivating and reassuring citizen-victims that they can have confidence in coming forward with evidence of crimes.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “Our goals and visions are to continue to expand services so that all victims can access such services and move forward with confidence in the criminal justice system. It bears noting that the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Victim Witness Program has been providing critical services for over 40 years, and has set the standard for victim assistance programs for other counties to follow. All victim witness services need support and funding from our county leadership. Morris County has been blessed with consistent support for these critical programs.”
Anthony DeVincenzo applauded the multi-disciplinary approach utilized in Morris County, “I’m consistently amazed by the passionate and dedicated people who are out there doing the work providing services for children and families. I’d be remiss if I didn’t say especially proud and overwhelmed by the work you’ve been doing in the last two years under what I can only imagine are the most trying of circumstances.”
“When you are bringing together a team of people, leveraging all of their expertise, knowledge, and skills, and providing a coordinated response to those victims and/or their circumstances, you are going to have better outcomes. I’ve seen that in my work in Morris County, and across the country. There will be better outcomes for victims and families.”
National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is intended to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services, highlight programs, celebrate progress achieved, and honor victims, the professionals, and the agencies who serve them.
PARSIPPANY — If you are a true Korean food aficionado seeking out that exceptional Korean BBQ restaurant, you might want to take the 30–40-mile trip to Bergen County or NYC, where you will find some outstanding venues. Luckily, if you reside in the general Parsippany area, do yourself a favor and skip the trip, and the gas, as Keo Ku BBQ Restaurant, located in a small strip mall on Route 46 East, provides comparable dining and cultural adventure to those more renown locations.
General Manager/Part Owner Brian Kim
Keo Ku BBQ, the first Korean restaurant in Parsippany opened its doors in 1993, owned and operated by the same family for the past 29 years. Current General Manager/Part Owner Brian Kim told me that his father, Jin Kim, and two Uncles, Seung Min and Mun are the initial owners of the restaurant, and now he has joined them to continue this great family business.
On further inquiry, the extremely personable and humble Brian K. explained, “My purpose is to bring authentic Korean food to our guests, offering true, traditional, high quality, fresh, and wholesome food while trying to avoid fusion dishes, which are common in many places. Of course, we offer several creative new dishes to accommodate all our customer’s tastes.” From my point of view, he could not have done a better job of meeting his goals.
Banchan
The entire dinner, from our tantalizing appetizers, assorted banchan, sumptuous entrees, and a highly creative dessert, provided our entire foodie group with an exciting dining adventure. Our highly attentive and genial host, Brian K., took time from his busy day to patiently answer all our questions, explain each serving, and provide helpful recommendations on request. As well as being an exceptional meal, it proved to be an interesting and cultural educational experience enjoyed by everyone.
Keo Ku BBQ is situated on the side of a small strip mall off Route 46 East, just West of New Road. One must watch the easily visible, large red signage leading into the strip mall.
Once entering the attractive entrance, you are immediately impressed with the classy, casual, welcoming, and warm Asian atmosphere throughout the restaurant. It is immaculately clean and spacious, with beautifully arranged seating, decorative wooden partitions separating the rich-looking wooden tables, appointed with traditional Korean eating utensils called Sujeo (수저) (metal chopsticks and long-handled spoon). Unlike other Asian cultures, Koreans use metal chopsticks with squared ends, as opposed to the wooden ones we in the U.S. are familiar with. The interior is softly and comfortably lighted, with soothing-colored walls, furniture, floors, and adornments, perfectly complementing the thoughtfully laid out Korean décor and artifacts throughout the restaurant. You will even find a Koi Pond at the entrance to further enhance the cultural ambiance, along with an interior design reflective of an ethnic, traditional Korean atmosphere. A fun and friendly vibe permeate the entire dining area.
My group of six was comfortably seated in a rear section of the restaurant, set up with nice, large tables, with gas grills in the center of each table with an unobtrusive smoke vent overhead. Each table could easily accommodate 8 to 10 people.
Japchae Noodles
As we perused and discussed the menu, deciding on our appetizers and entrees, we ordered some Terra and Kloud Malt beer (Korean Beers are usually light lagers) while discussing Korean food, culture, etiquette, and history with our knowledgeable host. Eventually, for our shared appetizers we decided on Panjeon 파전 (Scallion and Kimchi Pancakes), Soy Garlic and Spicy Goghujang (spicy red pepper paste) Chicken Wings, Scrambled Egg Korean Style (Gyeranjjim), and Japchae (Sweet Potato Glass Noodles Stir-Fried with Vegetables). The diversity of the tastes, textures, presentation, and aroma of the tangy, salty, sweet, spicy, and flavorful assortment of dishes was mouth-watering and were a tantalizing prelude to what was still to come. It was interesting and exciting to indulge in this satisfying and pleasurable dining experience.
Kimchi
Next out was the Banchan. Traditional Korean meals boast abundant side dishes, called Banchan, a term referring collectively to side dishes in Korean cuisine. Banchan accompanies every meal in Korea and can change daily based on the season, or on the meat or noodle dish you order.
Pat Minutillo
As is tradition, our table was quickly presented with a generous assortment of those side dishes, which included Kimchi (김치), cabbage fermented in a brine of ginger, garlic, green onion, and chili pepper, and Korea’s National dish and served at nearly every Korean meal, assorted vegetables, pickled selections, seafood, bean sprouts, noodles, tofu, rice, dipping sauces and more, that are all part of banchan. Remember, banchan are not an appetizer, but small assorted dishes to complement the main meal.
While we were enjoying the apps and banchan, as well as the camaraderie of sharing this communal meal, our pleasant and accommodating server, Meerah Lee, began to oil and prepare the gas grill, located in the center of each table, for the continuing feast to come.
Meerah expertly prepared the Bulgogi, and accompanying vegetables (불고기). Bulgogi is thinly sliced lean and tender beef, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, sugar, green onions, and black pepper. Next came the Galbi (갈비), grilled beef short ribs, sliced a little thicker than bulgogi. Both meat selections were nicely marbled and were, tasty, juicy, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth savory. The balanced sweet and savory marinade enhanced each bite. As traditionally eaten, I wrapped the marinated meat, along with the gochugaru paste, in one of the large, fresh, crispy, lettuce leaves provided with the meal, and proceeded to eat them in one bite: Korean style. The crunchiness and toothsome texture of the lettuce, with the spicy bite of gochugaru, along with the umami savoriness of the marinated meat was delectable.
I should note that you can order and grill your own entrees if you prefer instead of allowing the Keo Ku staff to do it. I was informed that is the preference of some guests. As for our group, we were more than happy to let Meerah do her thing, and she did it well.
Gopdol Bibimbap
Not wanting to miss another popular Korean dish we ordered the Gopdol Bibimbap (비빔밥), mixed vegetables, ground beef, fried egg over crispy rice, and served in a hot stove bowl, and served with a dollop of chili pepper paste. Crunchy and luscious, spicy, and sweet, with pickled and fermented notes, delicious addition to the meal.
Despite being more than satiated, we could not pass on a special dessert prepared by our host and guide, Brian Kim. Koreans are particularly fond of chips, according to Mr. Kim, so with a little creativity came his Honey Buttered Chip Dessert, which went amazingly well when dipped into vanilla ice cream. Perfect ending to a perfect meal.
Buttered Chip Dessert with Vanilla Ice Cream
Korean food is not only delicious and full of flavor but also embedded in thousands of years of culture. Looking for your next dining adventure? Looking for an educational dining experience? Go no further than Keo Ku BBQ Restaurant.
Private Parking Lot – Free Wi-Fi – Full Bar – Closed Mondays
Also on the Menu: Jeongols (Hot Pots) & Tang-Jjigae (Sours & Stews)
Keo Ku BBQ also offers catering and can accommodate private parties in their Hak (Crane) Room, a private dining room that can seat up to thirty-two people.
The Keo Ku Corner Bar is a bright open space that can accommodate up to forty seats and fifty-plus people for standing room.
Keo Ku Korean BBQ Restaurant (Keo Ku Jang) is located at 245 Route 46 East, Parsippany-Troy Hills. (973) 244-0032. Menu: KoreanbbqNewJersey.com.
PARSIPPANY — It was a little blustery, and a bit chilly, for late April, but that did not detract in the slightest from the anxiously, and long-awaited, anticipated start of the Baseball/Softball season for Par-Try West Little League. You could feel the excitement and joy in the air as a large group of local youth, their parents, and many supporters came out to celebrate the day. It was rewarding and energizing to see all the genuine smiles and laughter on the faces of everyone in attendance as they prepared to kick off the season.
As Yogi Berra said, “Little League is a very good thing because it keeps the parents off the street.” Who can argue with Yogi?
Par-Troy West Little League President, Frank Neglia
The Par-Troy Little League Program was established in 1952, making this the 70th year this program has been serving the community. With an all-volunteer Board of Directors, PTWLL has proven to be an extraordinarily successful self-development, fun, and healthy opportunity for Parsippany’s local children to develop confidence, good friendships, learn life skills, and teamwork, while providing them with a safe environment to assemble and play. The League, which boasts 400+ participants, is appropriately divided into various age divisions into both softball and baseball teams for ages 4 through 15.
Par-Troy West Little League’s President, Frank Neglia, a local Councilman, and President of the Executive Board of Directors since 1996 exudes immense pride and personal satisfaction when asked about the program. Neglia, along with his wife Sandra who serves as a Player Agent, along with eighteen other board members clearly possess a personal passion for the program, and still shows the same exuberance as they did 26 years ago. I guess like Cal Ripken, Jr. said; “You could be a kid as long as you want when you play baseball.”
Neglia stated, “I would like to thank the Township of Parsippany, the Parsippany Recreation Department, Parks, and Forestry, and the Board of Education for their vital support in providing and maintaining the ballfields in town and at the schools during the season.” “That support helps ensure that all our Little Leaguers in both the Par-Troy West and Par-Troy East always have a safe place to play. We are looking forward to another exciting, fun-filled, safe season this year, and we look forward to seeing everyone out there supporting the kids and the League.”
Little Viking Cheerleading Squad
The ceremonies began with some introductory comments by Neglia, who acknowledged and thanked his Board of Directors, volunteers, and sponsors, followed by comments from Mayor James Barberio. Next was the parade of players, as team after team, starting with the youngest T-ball teams, began their trot onto the field to a medley of motivational music, and were cheered on by a special appearance of the Little Viking Cheerleading Squad, and the Parsippany Hill High School Baseball and Softball Team.
Parsippany Hill High School Baseball and Softball Team
Next, the crowd was treated to a beautiful rendition of our National Anthem, sung by Stephanie Chang, and a reading of The Little League Pledge by Ricki Rosetti, one of the League’s youthful players.
Stephanie Chang
Of course, there was that ceremonial first pitch by Parsippany’s Mayor James Barberio, who was enjoying himself as much as anyone in the stadium. After a few more closing comments and presentations it was time to get to the business at hand. Play ball!
Besides the mayor, some of the local dignitaries on hand included Councilman Michael dePierro, Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani, Councilman Paul Carifi, and Councilman Justin Musella.
All of whom also sponsored individual teams. Of course, there were many other local officials and individuals of note on hand as well.
Councilman Paul Carifi, Council President Michael dePierro, Superintendant of Schools Dr. Barbara Sargent, Mayor James Barberio, Neglia, Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani, and Councilman Justin Musellareading of The Little League Pledge by Ricki Rosetti
So, come on out and support and be proud of our local youth. There’s a good chance you are looking at some future major leaguers. You never know! And, to revisit Yogi; “If the people don’t wanna come out to the ballpark, nobody’s gonna stop ‘em.”
Par-Troy Little League West
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Mayor James Barberio with the team he sponsors "Barberio Bombers"
Council President Michael dePierro and his team, dePierro Defenders
Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani and the team she sponsors, Gragnani Gladiators
Councilman Paul Carifi and with the team he sponsors, Carifi Crusaders
Councilman Justin Musella and "Musella's Masters," the team he sponsors
PARSIPPANY — A Red Flag warning has been issued due to the enhanced threat of fire spreading to our area. We’ve been asked a few times….. “What does a Red Flag Warning mean?”A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly due to a combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and dry fuels. Any fires that develop may quickly get out of control and genome difficult to contain.
“So what does this mean for me?” When a Red Flag Warning is issued, everyone should refrain from any type of open flame or improperly discarding certain things. This includes refraining from campfires and fire pits and properly discarding hot coals from BBQs and cigarettes. Anything that has the potential to spark a small fire, should be looked at very closely.
Please make sure to do your part, and if you see a small fire, dial 9-1-1 immediately as the fire may spread and become out of control very quickly. — with Lake Hiawatha District 4 and Parsippany Troy-Hills Fire District 6 in Parsippany.
PARSIPPANY — Members of the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company (Parsippany District Two) conducted a multi-purpose training drill in the corporate park on Cranberry Road, on Monday, April 25.
Members of the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company conducted a multi-purpose training drill. Photo by Captain Keith Lefferts
This location is close to the Parsippany Jannarone Park Sports Fields. If you live near Clearview or Rustic Way you might have seen or heard them as they drilled on arriving quickly at an active fire scene, pumper and aerial ladder truck placement, hose deployment, and using aerial nozzles to supply elevated master streams of high-pressure water.
The techniques they practiced are often used to fight fires in Commercial or Industrial facilities. There are several Commercial and Industrial areas located within the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company fire district.
Four new members participated in the drill.
If you are interested in joining Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company please contact any member or stop by the firehouse, located at One Rainbow Trail, Denville. For non-emergency call (973) 627-0184 any Monday evening.
Members of the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company conducted a multi-purpose training drill. Photo by Captain Keith Lefferts
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio proudly announces that Parsippany has been named ‘Tree City’ for the 46th Year by the Arbor Day Foundation.
The Tree City USA program requires four components: forming a tree board or department, creating a tree-care ordinance, having an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance or proclamation. The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will hold an Arbor Day ceremony at Parsippany Town Hall, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard, starting at 10:00 a.m.
More than 100 New Jersey cities and towns have earned the designation. Some have been “Tree Cities” for decades and others only for a few years or less. Parsippany and Paramus are the only two New Jersey municipalities to earn the honor for 46 years — since the Arbor Day Foundation began awarding “Tree City” statuses in 1976.
“Tree City USA communities benefit from the positive effects that an urban tree canopy has year after year,” said Dan Lambe, the foundation’s chief executive. “The trees being planted and cared for by Parsippany-Troy Hills Township ensure that generations will enjoy a better quality of life.”
The 150th Arbor Day holiday is Friday, April 29. The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will hold an Arbor Day ceremony at Parsippany Town Hall, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard, starting at 10:00 a.m.
A free seedling giveaway will also begin at 12:00 Noon at Parsippany Parks & Forestry, One Knoll Drive, Lake Hiawatha. For more information call (973) 263-7254.
