PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, June 17th, Parsippany’s Gourmet Café celebrated its 17th anniversary as one of the Township’s premiere Italian restaurants. The cozy, comfortable, upscale/casual BYOB, the pride and joy of Chef Matthew Pierone (aka Chef Matt), is in the Baldwin Plaza at 136 Baldwin Road. The trendy eatery, a family-owned and operated business boasting a large, area-wide regular clientele, is the pride and joy of Chef Matt, who is known to continually roam the room greeting his guests, most of whom he knows by name, and serving up a complimentary glass of his homemade limoncello.
Chef Matt, Mayor James Barberio, and Former Council President Michael dePierro
Many of those regulars dressed for the occasion, packed the restaurant, and many arrived bearing gifts to commemorate the occasion. Marie Fragomeni, a paralegal specialist representing Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi, presented Chef Pierone with a proclamation recognizing the Gourmet Café and Chef Pierone for not only its high-quality cuisine and exceptional hospitality but for its commitment to the community and ongoing generosity to various local organizations and charities.
Isabel Pierone, Lukas Grippo, and Matt Pierone serve the crowd
An extensive array of complimentary appetizers continued to arrive from the kitchen, one after another, as the assembled guests chatted, shared stories, enjoyed a glass or two of wine, and just enjoyed the afternoon. Everyone seemed to have a special connection and/or memory that endeared them to the Gourmet Café. Many shared stories of past special occasions, anniversaries, birthdays, or simply a memorable meal or two embedded in their memories. The dining room was filled with a communal feeling, and it is clear that you are welcomed as part of the family as soon as you walk through the doors into what has grown to be one of Parsippany’s most desirable establishments.
Parsippany Mayor James Barberio stopped by to congratulate. Also present were Past Parsippany Council President Michael dePierro, his wife Dee, and Morris County Commissioner Stephen Shaw. It’s hard to believe that 17 years have passed since Chef Matt opened his doors in 2007 and became a staple in the community.
It was a great afternoon to commemorate the occasion, and everyone in the room agreed they were looking forward to enjoying many more delicious meals during the next 17 years.
PARSIPPANY — The North Beverwyck Road Streetscape Project will begin on or after Wednesday, June 26, and run Monday through Friday between 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The initial area affected will be between Claudine Terrace and Lake Shore Drive.
Phase 1 Details:
Water Main Replacement: The first part of Phase 1 involves replacing the water main, expected to take approximately 4-5 weeks. This will cause a lane shift for northbound traffic from Claudine Terrace to Lake Shore Drive.
Traffic Detours:
Northbound Traffic: Vehicles from Route 46 into Lake Hiawatha will experience lane shifts.
Southbound Traffic: A detour will begin at the intersection of North Beverwyck Road and Lake Shore Drive. Vehicles will turn right onto Lake Shore Drive, left onto South Roosevelt Ave, and end at Vail Road.
Commercial Trucks: Southbound commercial trucks will be directed to turn left onto Lake Shore Drive and end on Vail Road. Detour routes are designed to minimize traffic issues and accommodate larger turn radiuses needed for trucks.
Additional Information:
Detour Signage: Clear signage will be posted throughout the area to guide traffic.
Speed Enforcement: Officers will be present to enforce speed limits and ensure safety.
Monitoring and Adjustments: The detour routes will be reevaluated and may be modified as needed to address traffic issues. The impact on residential streets will be closely monitored for traffic violations.
Please be aware of the changes and plan your routes accordingly. We greatly appreciate your cooperation and patience during this project.
A public meeting was held on May 24 to alert business owners to the project. At that time, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Frank Cahill presented grants available to enhance local businesses. Grants up to $50,000 are available to improve the exterior and interior of the business or purchase new equipment. For new companies, rent grants are also available. Contact Cahill at (973) 559-6000 for more information on available grants.
PARSIPPANY — Y2 Academy, renowned for its outstanding full-day SAT test preparation programs, celebrated a milestone with a grand ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event marked the official opening of their new facility, which aims to provide students with top-tier educational resources for SAT preparation.
Y2 Academy is located at 108 Route 46 West.
Rasmita Swain, Sarang Mahatwo, and Mayor James Barberio cut the ribbon on Saturday, June 8. Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Frank Neglia, Councilman Matthew McGraft, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Chairman Frank Cahill also joined the celebration.
Councilman Matt McGraft and Chairman Frank Cahill presented the owners with a plaque, congratulating them on Y2 Academy and thanking them for choosing Parsippany.
The ceremony saw a great turnout from local community leaders, educators, students, and parents, all eager to explore the new facility and learn more about Y2 Academy’s offerings.
Attendees were given a tour of the state-of-the-art classrooms and resources designed to enhance the learning experience and help students achieve their academic goals.
The ceremony concluded with refreshments, allowing guests to network and discuss the positive impact Y2 Academy aims to have on the community.
Y2 Academy’s new facility is a testament to its commitment to empowering students through education, preparing them for successful futures.
Frank Cahill said, “Y2 Academy aims to provide exceptional test preparation and academic support to help students achieve their highest potential in standardized exams. Welcome to Parsippany. Pride in Parsippany.”
For more information, click here or call (973) 814-9227.
Y2 Academy is a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.
MORRIS COUNTY — On Saturday, June 22, Morris County Pride held its annual pride festival at the County College of Morris, located at 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. This family-friendly event aimed to support visibility and local LGBTQ+ programming and care.
The festival, produced by Morris County Pride, featured various entertainment-based activities designed to foster visibility, acceptance, inclusion, education, and resources for the LGBTQI+ community in Morris County. Visitors contributed to a meaningful cause by participating, as all donations and funds raised directly supported the specialty programming and services at EDGE New Jersey, New Jersey’s LGBTQ+ and HIV+ community center.
EDGE New Jersey is dedicated to responding compassionately and responsibly to those living with HIV, those at risk, and the LGBTQ+ communities. The organization provides a range of supportive services, including housing opportunities, prevention strategies, and education, all aimed at enhancing the community it serves. Its vision is to empower individuals to achieve healthy, safe, and self-sufficient lives, thereby enabling them to positively influence their communities.
This family-friendly event aimed to support visibility and local LGBTQ+ programming and care.
The Morris County Pride festival exemplifies EDGE New Jersey’s mission and vision by creating a supportive environment where community members can come together, celebrate diversity, and work towards a more inclusive society.
Out NJ Magazine, a prominent voice for the LGBTQ+ community in New Jersey, participated in the Pride Festival, sharing inspiring stories and celebrating diversity. Their presence highlighted the importance of visibility and representation for the LGBTQ+ community.Parsippany Pharmacy was one of the many exhibitors at the Pride Festival held at County College of Morris, demonstrating their support for the LGBTQ+ community and commitment to inclusive healthcare services.Zulfal Health, known for its comprehensive healthcare services, played a significant role at the County College of Morris Pride Festival. As a dedicated participant, Zulfal Health provided wellness information and resources tailored to the LGBTQ+ community.Homeless Solutions, an organization dedicated to providing shelter and services for those in need, participated in the Pride Festival at County College of Morris. Their booth offered information on housing assistance, support services, and resources specifically designed to help the LGBTQ+ community facing homelessness.Mimi Sashimi, a well-known advocate and vibrant personality within the LGBTQ+ community, made a significant impact at the Pride Festival held at the County College of Morris. Known for her dynamic presence and dedication to promoting inclusivity, Mimi engaged with festival attendees, sharing her experiences and spreading a message of acceptance and love. Her participation underscored the importance of visibility and support within the LGBTQ+ community.
At the Pride Festival held at County College of Morris, attendees could visit the Navigating Hope van. This mobile outreach unit provided invaluable assistance, allowing individuals to:
Apply for SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, and other essential assistance programs
Get connected to health and wellness resources
Receive support for issues related to domestic violence, aging, WIC, and EITC
Access a wide range of other vital services
The Navigating Hope van ensured that festival-goers had access to the support and resources they needed, reinforcing the event’s commitment to community care and inclusivity.
Pride Month is celebrated annually in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan, which was a pivotal event in the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States. The uprising began as a series of spontaneous demonstrations by members of the LGBTQ+ community against a police raid that took place at the Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in New York City’s Greenwich Village.
The Presbyterian Church in Morristown joined the Pride Festival at County College of Morris, showcasing its commitment to inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ+ community. Its booth provided a welcoming space for festival-goers to learn about the church’s open and affirming stance and the various programs and services it offers.PFLAG of Sussex County stands for “Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays” in Sussex County. It is a local chapter of the national PFLAG organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and their families and friends. The mission of PFLAG is to create a world where diversity is celebrated and all people are respected, valued, and affirmed regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. PFLAG of Sussex County helps foster a more inclusive and understanding community by providing support groups, educational resources, and advocacy efforts.
Zulfal Health, known for its comprehensive healthcare services, played a significant role at the Pride Festival at the County College of Morris. As a dedicated participant, Zulfal Health provided essential health screenings, wellness information, and resources tailored to the LGBTQ+ community.
The County College of Morris exemplified the values of EDGE New Jersey by creating a supportive environment where community members could come together, celebrate diversity, and work towards a more inclusive society. It highlighted the importance of community support, visibility, and education in fostering a culture of acceptance and equality for all.
Pride Month is a time for LGBTQ+ individuals to celebrate their identities and experiences. It provides an opportunity for the community to express pride in who they are, free from stigma or shame. It highlights ongoing issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community, advocating for equality, legal protections, and societal acceptance. Events and activities during Pride Month often focus on educating the public about LGBTQ+ rights and history.
The first Pride marches were held in 1970, on the first anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising. Over the years, these marches evolved into broader celebrations and protests, incorporating a variety of events and activities designed to support and uplift the LGBTQ+ community.
Pride Month is celebrated in many countries worldwide, although the timing and form of celebrations may vary. In some countries, Pride events may face legal or social challenges, but they continue to symbolize the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights globally.
By celebrating Pride Month, communities worldwide work towards greater acceptance, equality, and recognition for LGBTQ+ individuals while remembering the significant historical events that laid the foundation for these movements.
The Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC), located in Morristown, is a premier arts and cultural institution offering diverse performances and events. Established to enrich the community through the arts, MPAC hosts a variety of shows, including concerts, theater productions, dance performances, comedy acts, and family-friendly events.The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (STNJ), located in Madison, is one of the leading Shakespeare theaters in the nation. Dedicated to producing classic and contemporary plays, STNJ offers a rich array of performances that celebrate the works of William Shakespeare and other playwrights. The theatre aims to bring the timeless power of theatre to life through professional productions, educational programs, and community engagement.
PARSIPPANY—Principal Melissa Carucci announced the Class of 2024 graduates, which consists of 240 students.
The 2024 Class Officers are Abigail Collins, President; Ava La Presti, Vice President; Amelia Shappell, Secretary; and Caiden Llinas, Treasurer.
The Salutatorian is Celine Chen, and the Valedictorian is Daniel Romero.
The graduates in alphabetical order are Aria Abam, Camryn Afi Aboagye, Damien Gerard Adessa, Reza M. Ahmadi, Shane Ahn, Yasmin Aluned Nasser Almajanahi, Jared Almazo, Haasini Reddy Alumalla, Malik Alzubi, Jasvi P. Amin, Jui P. Amin, Homeid Anwari, Christopher Thomas Anzalone, Farzad Azizi, Ayush Anoop Bachasa, Diana Bandola, Josh Bobby Barthelus, Devran Kubilai Beg, Jarrett John Behnke, Naomi Nichole Berry, Anvi Bhardwaj, Angelica Bliakhman, Jasmine Bollack, Maxwell Trent Booker, Hope Brecher, Hunter Brecher, Kara Brodock, Julia Ann Bruggeman, Julia Rose Budich, Matteo Cacciapaglia, Julianna Catherine Caldwell, Dominick Caponegro, Brielle Geraldine Carluccio, Damian Alexander Carrigan, Ellie Carrillo, Luca Bernard Cascio, Chloe Athena Feliciano Caylao, Saumya Chauhan, Celine Chen, Lena Chen, Quiyara Sabree Chitty, Abigail Frances Collins, Renee Leandra Conditi, and Anthony Michael Coppola.
Also Erica Ann Corcino, Charles Joseph Cordasco, Michaela Regine Coyle, Lucas Craig, Joseph Carl Croat, Emerson Z. Davis, William deLaar, Jose Luis DeLeon Pena, Youvensky Wiclefson Derac, Shayne Derose, Riddhi Rudra Deshpande, Aadrita Dey, Aarya Abbay Dhake, Muhammad Diop, Valerie Victoria Domenech, Tessa Rose Downes, William Edwards, Peniel O. Eke, Hannah Elizabeth Ellicott, Ehab Salah Elzain, Juan David Encarnacion, Andres Abelino Estrada, Angelina Marie Fernandez, Joseph Nicholas Ferrara, Andrew James Fuenzalida, Angel Gabriel-Oropeza, Joyce Gao, Christian Garzon Nieto, Nathan Keith Gaskins, Chitra Gayatri, Jerin George, Alejandro Giraldo Garcia, Gabriel Christiansen Go, Justin Alexander Gomez, Kevin Joseph Gong, Andrew Henry Gonzalez, Veronica Gonzalez, Kamaria Maricella Green, Stevani Mya-Alexa Grosso, Christopher Maurice Guambana-Smith, Juan Sebastian Gutierrez Castaneda, Jaden Manuel Guzman, Anum B. Haqqani, Tyler James Haywood, Jared Hernandez-Mendoza, Kassidy Re’ Aiysia Hill, Sara Elizabeth Hoffman, Arvid Huq, Lesley Huynh, Christian Ivanoski, Christian Joel Jacobo, Ritu Jayakar, Navya Jayakumar, Nicholas Rylan Jones, Vanessa Angelika Jones, and Logan Rhea Kersey Joyner.
Also Dennis J. Kadian, Maryam Kandil, Barbara Cecilia Karkanias, Yasemin Kaya, Sviatoslav Y. Koguch, Averi D. Kowalski, Dan David Kristoffersen, Anna Kruger, Shyann Kuber, Anthony La Capra, Ava Marie La Presti, Kimberly Elizabeth Lam, Soniya Lamichhane, Leslye Nieto Leal, David Jonathan Leon Guallpa, Alexander Leone, Rachel Lepore, Grace Lepre, Maggie Letsch, Danny Levine, Camryn C. Lewis, Evan Lin, Taisli Silvia Linares, Jaiden Llinas, Gianna Irene Lo Dico, Eleanor Madison Lopez, Sarah Aubrey Lopez, Prachita Maiti, Pranuj Mandavia, Aryan Mantri, Claudia Markowski, Amy Daniella Martinez, Juan Carlos Martinez-Montijo, Daniela Sofia Marto, Kaitlyn Martocci, Raviteja Masspalli, Jake Robert Matheis, Sofia Helen McBride, Jacqueline Merary Mendoza, Matthew Simon Mendoza, Briana Lynn Miller, Roshan Mistry, Priyal K. Mody, Bella Morel, Ananya Mukherjee, Omkar Vijay Namjoshi, Aidan V. Napolitano, Juan Antonio Nava-Maceda, Hannah Anne Nguyen, Jennifer K. Nguyen, Kaitlyn Nguyen, Jorge Ernesto Novoa, Mya Juliana O’Brien, and Jazmin Lily O’Donnell.
Also Jovan Hao Zhi Ooi, Dviti Darshan Patel, Janvi Chirag Patel, Kripa A. Patel, Krish Patel, Neil P. Patel, Prisba D. Patel, Riya Dipak Patel, Rohan Kalel Patel, Ronak Patel, Urja Ashvinkumar Patel, Yidban Kinjal Patel, Vibaan Jigar Patel, Jeffrey Manuel Peralta, Maicol E. Perez, Nathan Petzinger, Jaden Lucas Pociask, Srikoushika Polisetty, Christian Nicholas Portillo, Mahush Y. Prajapati, Vishnu Praveen, Carla Nicole Puello, Maria Rago, Sakthivel Rajendran, Patricio Andres Ramirez, Daniela Ramirez Salazar, Dhruv Rajesh Rana, Christopher Joseph Rattacasa, Jainil Vimal Raval, Aisha Rehan, Dilmer Rivera-Cardona, Liana Rose Roman, Charlotte Romeo, Daniel Romero, Catherine Adel Sabat, Bircan Firat Sahin, Ariana Nicole Santiago, Julia Rose Sardini, Kenneth Bradley Schneider, Felipe Aurelio Schuck, Julia Loriann Schuren, Sophia Jolene Seliuson, Jignasu Ripal Shah, Prayanshi Jiten Shah, Saloni Shah, Muhammad Sameeh Shahzad, Amelia Pauline Shappell, Reza Shoaib, Shippy Singh, Daniel Skarbovski, Larissa Smith, Ali Emin Songun, and Scott Patrick Sonzogni.
Also Anthony Sperber, Robert Jerry Spero, Darren Ethan Spratley, Jake R. Stevens, Jesse J. Stevens, Alexa Nicole Strain, Mateo Tabares, Saboor Tahir, Rebecca T. Talavera, Monica Tehutle Ramirez, Benjamin Temryna, Aubrey Suzanne Thomas, Abigail Rose Thurkauf, Miami Ariel Tillery, Bernard Nicholas Tinord, Samantha Paraska Tkach, Lucas Marcelo Tramazzo, Amyah Faith Troche, Ava Christine Turrisi, Arnav Tyagi, Aarin Tyagi, Matthew Alexander Vigier, Ronin Jay Wani, Alexandre Wassel, Darren Scott Wild, Nicholas William Yachera, Neeti Shriprakash Yadav, Gabrielle Lynn Yi, Samantha Grace Yi, Chloe Evelyn Young, Bryan S. Zamora, Martin Zanrndio, and Heriberto Zuniga Cruz.
MORRIS COUNTY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) announced that 23 New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District students were appointed to the U.S. Service Academies and attended the Service Academy Preparatory Schools. These students will begin their education and service careers this year at the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and their associated Preparatory Schools. Rep. Sherrill hosted an event to recognize the students yesterday in Bloomfield.
“I offer my heartfelt congratulations to all of the NJ-11 students who will be attending our nation’s military academies and academy preparatory schools. From my experience at the Naval Academy, I remember that the course of study was intense – both academically and physically – but taught me the true value of teamwork, leadership, and service. I thank all of our students for choosing to put our country over themselves and wish them well as they begin their military careers as the future leaders of our men and women in uniform,” said Rep. Sherrill.
The 18 NJ-11 students attending U.S. Service Academies:
Amelia Benjamin, Maplewood – U.S. Naval Academy
Emma Bradley, Florham Park – U.S. Naval Academy
Charlene Giessen, Montclair – U.S. Naval Academy
Ryan Trafford, West Caldwell – U.S. Naval Academy
Avinash Uppuluri, Short Hills – U.S. Naval Academy
Andrew Daly, Wayne – U.S. Naval Academy
Oliver Acuna-Casey, Morristown – U.S. Military Academy
Cassidy Ball, Jefferson – U.S. Military Academy
John Bigham, Chatham – U.S. Military Academy
Gabriel Epstein, Montclair – U.S. Military Academy
Matias Feoli, Short Hills – U.S. Military Academy
Joshua Hobaugh, Denville – U.S. Military Academy
Karthikean Juttumahadevan, Morris Plains – U.S. Military Academy
Cora Webber, Morris Plains – U.S. Military Academy
Michael Zuercher, Lincoln Park – U.S. Military Academy
Diego Pla-Silsby, Montclair – U.S. Air Force Academy
Juliet Trouse, Riverdale – U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Connor Wysocki, Randolph – U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
The following five NJ-11 students will attend Service Academy Preparatory Schools in the coming year. Students attending a Preparatory School do not require a Congressional Nomination:
Leila Galarza, Parsippany – U.S. Military Academy Preparatory School
Margaret Hedberg, Montclair – U.S. Naval Academy Preparatory School
Noah Rega, Madison – U.S. Naval Academy Preparatory School
Connor Ross, Morris Plains – U.S. Naval Academy Preparatory School
Alexandra Richard, Bloomfield – U.S. Naval Academy Preparatory School
The Merchant Marine Academy allows Representatives to nominate candidates anywhere in New Jersey. In addition to the appointees above, Rep. Sherrill nominated the following student who received an appointment to the Merchant Marine Academy:
William Dozier, Southampton – U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Rep. Sherrill graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1994 and served as a Sea King helicopter pilot and Russian policy officer in the U.S. Navy for almost ten years.
PARSIPPANY — The 9th annual Rainbow Lakes neighborhood block party was a resounding success. Block parties are a fantastic way to get to know neighbors, form lasting friendships, try different cuisines, and, most importantly, have a great time. With some simple paperwork and approval from the town, anyone can organize a successful block party.
Officer DeMuro, Parsippany Police Department, accepted the invitation and joined in on an impromptu game of cornhole.
This year, members of the Parsippany Police Department accepted the invitation and joined in on an impromptu game of cornhole. While the officers gave it their best shot, Team Willy and Zach claimed bragging rights, triumphing over Team Officer DeMuro and Officer Stone. It may be early, but the good news is they have time to practice before next year’s challenge.
Parsippany Police Join in the Fun at Rainbow Lakes Block Party.
Thanks to Sgt. McGinnis, Officer Stone, Officer DeMuro, and Officer Lally for stopping by the block party. Hopefully, they didn’t leave hungry. Councilman Justin Musella also stopped by and was introduced to the neighbors in attendance.
It was a great day, and everyone looked forward to this event. Starting a tradition is a beautiful idea; while it takes some planning, it’s definitely worth the effort.
PARSIPPANY — Sunbelt Rentals, located at 950 Edwards Road, recently held an open house ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Sunbelt Rentals serves many customers, from small contractors to large industrial companies, providing flexible rental options and support services to meet various project needs.
Sunbelt Rentals provides equipment rental services to various industries, including construction, industrial, and commercial sectors. They offer a diverse inventory of rental equipment, including:
Construction Equipment: Excavators, bulldozers, backhoes, and other heavy machinery.
Aerial Work Platforms: Scissor lifts, boom lifts, and other equipment for working at heights.
Power Generation: Generators, light towers, and other power-related equipment.
Climate Control: Portable air conditioners, heaters, and dehumidifiers.
Tools and Equipment: General tools for construction, landscaping, and maintenance.
Earth Moving Equipment: Skid steers, trenchers, and loaders.
Material Handling: Forklifts, pallet jacks, and hoists.
Sunbelt Rentals provides equipment rental services to various industries, including construction, industrial, and commercial sectors. They offer a diverse inventory of rental equipment.Sunbelt Rentals offers a diverse inventory of rental equipment and provides equipment rental services to various industries, including construction, industrial, and commercial sectors.Parsippany resident Joseph Riedinger welcomed guests at the open house.Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development committee, presented Sun Belt Rentals with a plaque welcoming them to Parsippany.
MORRIS COUNTY — Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) stood up for New Jersey consumers by supporting the Shrinkflation Prevention Act, legislation preventing corporations from deceptively selling less of a product without lowering the price accordingly. Sherrill’s support is part of her ongoing work to lower everyday costs for New Jersey families.
“We’ve all felt the disappointment of opening a bag of chips and finding out that it’s mostly full of air – and that’s not an accident. Large corporations have gotten away with charging more and selling less for too long while New Jerseyans foot the bill. Tackling this issue of shrinkflation is a big step in stopping inflation at the supermarket. That’s why I am proud to support the Shrinkflation Prevention Act to lower prices at the grocery store, hold large corporations accountable, and make sure Garden State families get a fair shake,” said Rep. Sherrill.
The Shrinkflation Prevention Act is led by Reps. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) and Chris Deluzio (PA-17) in the House, and Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) in the Senate. The legislation would:
Direct the Federal Trade Commission to develop regulations establishing shrinkflation as an unfair or deceptive act or practice prohibiting manufacturers from engaging in it.
Authorize the FTC and state governments to pursue legal actions against corporations who unlawfully engage in shrinkflation.
Since taking office, Sherrill has fought to lower prices and make the Garden State more affordable for families. She helped to successfully pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which lowered the cost of prescription drugs for seniors and expanded access to clean energy tax credits. She voted to pass the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act through the House, which would boost support for American farmers, expand competition in the meat industry, and make new investments in biofuels.
After passing the CHIPS and Science Act to strengthen American supply chains and reduce the cost of cars and electronics, Sherrill also introduced her American Jobs and Competition Plan to address unfair economic practices by the Chinese Communist Party and level the playing field for New Jersey businesses. She has also led legislation to cap childcare costs at 7% of families’ income and to provide tax relief to New Jerseyans by repealing the SALT deduction cap.
“Appropriating representatives to the United States Congress based on citizenship is the only formula that allows for accurate representation in our federal government,” said Pennacchio. “It is imperative that the right of each American citizen to receive equal representation in government is protected from dilution.”
More than 10 million people have illegally entered the United States under the tenure of President Biden, which, according to current estimates, has increased the total population of illegal immigrants in the United States to more than 20 million people and the total population of noncitizens to more than 30 million, Pennacchio said.
“The noncitizen population is so large that if they were all located in one state, it would be apportioned 40 congressional districts and 42 electoral votes in presidential elections. In no world does that echo the sentiment of equal representation,” Pennacchio said.
The United States House of Representatives introduced H.R. 7109, known as the “Equal Representation Act,” on January 29, 2024, and passed the bill on May 8, 2024. Enactment of the bill would ensure that the allocation of congressional seats and electoral votes among the states would be apportioned based on the United States citizen population and would not be diluted by the country’s noncitizen population, said Pennacchio.
Additionally, Senator Pennacchio has introduced companion legislation that would protect the process of redistricting New Jersey’s legislative seats by only counting New Jersey citizens during that process.
