PARSIPPANY — Alexandra Partington is one of nearly 100 master’s students who marked their academic success and achievements as part of Lebanon Valley College’s 154th Commencement on Saturday, May 13.
Partington received a master of education in education from LVC. The Parsippany Troy Hills School District has employed her since September 2005.
Lebanon Valley College, founded in 1866, offers bachelor’s degrees in more than 50 majors; master’s degrees in accounting (MBA 3+1), applied kinesiology, athletic training, business administration, clinical exercise physiology, clinical mental health counseling, education, intelligence and security studies, music education, school counseling, science in STEM education, speech-language pathology, and sports performance; a doctoral degree in physical therapy; ACT 48 continuing education for educator credits; and certificates in comprehensive curriculum & assessment for PreK-12, healthcare management, integrative STEM education, leadership & ethics, marketing, modern band, online teaching & learning, project management, social, emotional, & behavioral wellness, sports enhancement, supply chain management & logistics, and trauma-informed counseling. Located eight miles from Hershey, Pennsylvania, this college of 1,600 undergraduate and 400+ graduate students produces alumni who attend prestigious graduate and professional schools and are employed by top companies and school districts.
Thirty-one percent of our students are first generation (40% of first-year class), 21% of fall 2022 first-year students were Pell-eligible, and 100% of the fall 2021 incoming class received grant or scholarship aid from LVC. More than 35% of our students participate on our 27 NCAA Division III athletic teams or eSports teams, and our students volunteer more than 20,000 hours of community service during the academic year.
Agenda subject to change without notice Although the information on this site is believed to be reliable, online postings of meeting agendas are not considered official copies.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Veterans Services Office (VSO) is expanding accommodations and key services to assist veterans and their families under a plan launched by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners.
The Commissioners have approved an infusion of $300,000 to expand and continue veteran programs the Commissioners first created in 2021 with $350,000 while additionally approving an expansion of county VSO facilities at the county complex in Morris Township. Morris County has expanded its VSO staff to handle the growing caseload of veterans seeking services.
“The county is nearly doubling funding for a recently launched veterans program and more than doubling facility space for veterans services. Morris County is committed to our veterans. They served our country selflessly. Some were wounded physically and/or mentally and have earned our gratitude and ongoing support,” stated Commissioner Director John Krickus, a Marine Corps veteran.
Morris County will continue programs initially approved in late 2021 to provide mental health support services for veterans and their family members and assist them with skills to sustain long-term stabilization within our community. The $300,000 being committed this year will support additional services for emergency shelter, eviction prevention, housing access, transportation, and food security.
Morris County is expanding the VSO into adjacent, county-owned offices at the Morris View Health Care Center off West Hanover Avenue in Morris Township. The added room will more than double the space available to support veterans and their families.
Director Krickus, Shawnna Bailey, VSO Program Coordinator Jessica Tomalo, VSOs Andrew Cornwallis and Jason Leffler.
A primary service the county veterans officers provides is helping veterans apply for and obtain benefits through the federal Veterans Administration Clinic, which also has an office nearby.
The expanded space will provide additional room for Morris County’s Morris Area Paratransit System (MAPS), which some veterans use to reach appointments and fulfill other obligations.
Renovations to the space the VSO assumes are expected to be completed in the fall of 2023.
“Currently, we only have one interview space for veterans, which means we can only have one interview at a time due to confidentiality and being able to maintain their privacy. Having a larger space will enable us to provide services to more veterans at once,” said Shawnna Bailey, Assistant Director of Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming.
The Morris County Commissioners determined an emergent need to increase existing mental health support for Morris County veterans and their families after the United States withdrew armed forces from Afghanistan in 2021.
At that time, the board allocated $350,000 of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to provide mental health treatment for veterans and their families through counseling and support groups, and community-building events to provide veterans informal opportunities to connect with one another. For 2023, the county subcontracted with the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris, the lead agency delivering a strong and successful mental health response for veterans and their families.
“We hope veterans served through these funds will obtain the additional support needed to help prevent situations of significant crisis, such as homelessness or eviction. The Mental Health Association will continue providing important mental health support services for veterans and their family members to build skills for better outcomes within our community,” stated Commissioner Deputy Director Christine Myers, liaison to the Human Services Department.
VSO Program Coordinator Jessica Tomalo, VSOs Andrew Cornwallis, Jason Leffler, Shawnna Bailey, and Director Krickus.
Morris County’s VSOs connect local veterans with federal VA Healthcare. They also support filing pension claims and provide referrals to other services, including home health services, mental health services, transportation, housing, education, and employment. The role of veteran service officers in the intake process is essential to sustaining the well-being of veterans. They function as a dependable resource they can trust.
“The VSO is one of our most unheralded treasures serving our veterans. The VSO is phenomenal—it’s a hidden treasure not many know,” stated Deacon Richard Reck of VFW Post 7333.
Veterans seeking services through Morris County are encouraged to visit the Morris County Veterans Services Office website, call (973) 285-6866, or email MCVets@co.morris.nj.us.
MORRIS COUNTY — On Thursday, May 25, the County College of Morris (CCM) celebrated its 54th Commencement at Mennen Arena to honor the Class of 2023. The ceremony marked a significant milestone for approximately 1,025 graduates who successfully completed their academic journey at CCM. With great pride and enthusiasm, the college recognized the achievements of these graduates, who have worked diligently to attain their degrees and certificates. The Commencement ceremony served as a momentous occasion to commemorate their hard work, dedication, and academic accomplishments, signaling the beginning of their next chapter as they venture into their respective fields and pursue their aspirations.
Welcoming the graduates, Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, CCM president
Welcoming the graduates, Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, CCM president, remarked, “You truly are a class like no other. Many of you began your studies during the pandemic – a period of tremendous uncertainty, stress, and loss. Yet you demonstrated incredible focus and refused to let even a pandemic stop you from moving forward. Your determination to earn your degree and reach your dreams has brought you to this moment today.”
He then went on to highlight several outstanding graduates.
Liyalani “Lili” Roebuck, originally from Newark, strove to be an excellent student in high school and engaged in activities that assisted others. After graduating high school In 2020, she planned to attend Hampton University in Virginia. Just before leaving, her life was shattered by a senseless shooting. In recovery, she decided not to be a victim and instead to thrive. Her first step was to forgive her assailant, and her second was to enroll at CCM to graduate with honors. In addition to a caring family that helped her thrive, she had the advocacy of Dr. John W. Kennedy, CEO of the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program. She graduates with a degree in Psychology and is transferring to Rutgers. “Keep on thriving, Lili,” said Iacono. “Keep making us proud.”
During the 54th Commencement ceremony at County College of Morris (CCM), Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, the president of CCM, had the honor of presenting a diploma to a deserving graduate. With pride and enthusiasm, Dr. Iacono recognized the graduate’s hard work, dedication, and academic achievements throughout their time at CCM. This symbolic moment represented the culmination of the graduate’s educational journey and marked the beginning of their future endeavors. As the president of CCM, Dr. Iacono played a pivotal role in celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2023 and inspiring them to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in their chosen fields.
Yet another member of the Class of 2023, Stephanie Wildrick of Blairstown, lost her husband, Ronald, in Afghanistan when an IED struck his military vehicle. Left to care for their two young daughters, she received the support of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which provides mortgage-free homes to families of fallen soldiers. With the ability to care for her family eased, she decided to continue her education and prepare for a nursing career. “Stephanie, thank you for choosing CCM,” said Iacono. “You are a pillar of strength and conviction and have inspired many. Keep caring and keep inspiring.”
Also, in the Class of 2023, Calvin Solomon of Morristown came to CCM as an adult learner, looking to establish himself in the medical field as a technician. He started in the Mechanical Engineering Technology Program but, along with the rest of the world, had to pivot during the pandemic. Never one to shy from giving back, he coached upcoming students in the Electrical Engineering Technology Biomedical Program on real-world expectations. While putting himself through school, he found work in the biomedical equipment field before completing his degree in Electronics Engineering Technology. “Calvin – congratulations,” said Iacono. “You are proof positive that some dreams are worth fighting for and quitting is never an option.”
Presented with the Sherman and Dorothy Masten Memorial Scholarship was Christopher Wright of Budd Lake/Mount Olive, graduating with a degree in Graphic Design/Animation. Dr. Sherman H. Masten was the founding president of CCM. The Masten Scholarship is presented to a graduate with a minimum 3.5 GPA who has been accepted into a four-year college or university.
Iacono next welcomed CCM’s Board of Trustees Chair George J. Milonas ’98, a CCM alumnus.
Milonas told the graduates, “For me, deciding to attend CCM was the right one. It gave me the tools to pursue a rewarding career that has allowed me to work in the public and private sectors and academia,” he said. Encouraging the graduates, he added, “Don’t be afraid. Lean in. Believe in yourself to make the right decision. And don’t be afraid to make mistakes. You will often learn the most from them.”
Morris County Commissioner Director John Krickus
Also speaking to the graduates, Morris County Commissioner Director John Krickus noted, “We at the Morris County Board of County Commissioners … have prioritized education. We have enthusiastically provided funding for several projects: the new Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Center, the to-be-built expansion of the culinary program and an entrepreneurship center, and on the CCM campus, a $25 million, 500-student expansion of the Morris Vocational School District. The education, skills, and careers you are developing are not only important to you and your families, but they are also vitally important to our nation.”
English Professor Laura Driver presented this year’s Peace Prize to graduate Hannah Ernst, of Parsippany, for her “Faces of Covid Victims” project (Click here)
Ernst’s project is an international initiative that has aided over 20,000 families and created over 3,000 digital, personalized memorials to commemorate loved ones lost to COVID-19. The passing of her grandfather, Cal Schoenfeld, due to COVID-19, was her inspiration as he gave Ernst a passion for literature, art, and music. She plans to attend Rutgers and major in Psychology, concentrating on Criminal Profiling.
Serving as the Keynote Speaker was Tom Bergeron, editor, and chief content officer of ROI-NJ, which he helped launch in 2017. An influential journalist in New Jersey for more than two decades, Bergeron has guided the development of ROI-NJ into a highly successful digital and print news outlet covering the world of business and politics in New Jersey.
Speaking to the graduates, he encouraged them to take advantage of their smartphones to research, explore opportunities and improve their lives. “After coming up with an idea – a product or service that you feel is needed – you can go on your phone and quickly discover if anyone else has the same idea. And if they do, you can quickly analyze their product or service’s quality and cost and determine if your idea can compete. It’s the type of market research that people of my generation would have paid thousands of dollars for,” he said.
He also encouraged the graduates to set aside their phones to focus on relationships. “Your phone isn’t perfect. Make no doubt about it, those who only have relationships through social media and text messages always will have a hole to fill,” he said. “So, find a job, a hobby, a volunteer project where you are forced to put down your phone and interact with people you don’t know. It will be an incredible life lesson.”
At the ceremony, Dr. Dorothy Hollowell, a retired English professor, was bestowed the honor of Faculty Emerita. Hollowell began teaching at CCM in 1988. During her tenure, she served as director and tutor for the English department’s Writing Center and assistant program coordinator for the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Graduates’ Program.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone for approximately 1,025 graduates who successfully completed their academic journey at CCM. With great pride and enthusiasm, the college recognized the achievements of these graduates, who have worked diligently to attain their degrees and certificates.
As the student speaker, Zuleyka Obando of Hackettstown, vice president of the Student Government Association, shared, “My journey began here at the County College of Morris right after graduating from Mount Olive High School. Unsure of where I wanted to go or what to do for the rest of my life, I began taking courses and realized that coming here was the best decision I have ever made.”
PARSIPPANY — Danny Desai and Gary Martin, candidates for Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council, hosted a successful “Meet and Greet” event at Elmas Turkish & Mediterranean Cuisine, attended by over 75 guests.
Hemant Shah, a longtime friend, and supporter, played a pivotal role in organizing the successful “Meet and Greet” event hosted by Gary Martin and Danny Desai, candidates for Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council. Gary Hemant Shah’s involvement ensured the smooth coordination and execution of the gathering, contributing to its overall success. Their dedication and commitment to the candidates were instrumental in creating an engaging and welcoming environment for the attendees, further strengthening the bond between the candidates and the community.Gary Shah, a longtime friend and supporter, played a pivotal role in organizing the successful “Meet and Greet” event hosted by Gary Martin and Danny Desai, candidates for Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council. Gary Hemant Shah’s involvement ensured the smooth coordination and execution of the gathering, contributing to its overall success. Their dedication and commitment to the candidates were instrumental in creating an engaging and welcoming environment for the attendees, further strengthening the bond between the candidates and the community.Gary Martin and Danny Desai actively engaged with the guests at the “Meet and Greet” event, passionately sharing their views and discussing their perspectives on various important matters. They took the opportunity to communicate their visions for Parsippany-Troy Hills Township and listened attentively to the concerns and ideas expressed by the attendees. Through meaningful conversations and open dialogue, Gary and Danny fostered a deeper understanding of their platforms and demonstrated their commitment to addressing the needs and aspirations of the community. Their interactions with the guests reflected their dedication to public service and genuine interest in making a positive difference in the township.During the “Meet and Greet” event, Gary Martin and Danny Desai engaged in meaningful conversations and open dialogue with the attendees, showcasing their dedication to public service and genuine interest in positively impacting the community. By actively listening to the guests’ concerns, ideas, and aspirations, Gary and Danny demonstrated their commitment to understanding the community’s needs and finding effective solutions. Their interactions fostered a deeper understanding of their platforms and highlighted their responsiveness and willingness to address the issues that matter most to the township residents. Through their genuine engagement, Gary and Danny showed their determination to serve the community and work towards a better future for all.Danny Desai and Gary Martin, Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council candidates, hosted a successful “Meet and Greet” event at Elmas Turkish & Mediterranean Cuisine, attended by over 75 guests.The gathering allowed local residents to get acquainted with the candidates and engage in meaningful conversations.
The gathering allowed local residents to get acquainted with the candidates and engage in meaningful conversations. Gary Shah and Herant Shah, well-known community members, introduced Desai and Martin to the enthusiastic crowd, emphasizing their qualifications and dedication to serving the township. The event created a positive and engaging environment, fostering connections between the candidates and the community they aim to represent.
PARSIPPANY — Unity Bank, a community bank, is set to open a new full-service branch in Lake Hiawatha, marking its first location in Morris County and its third new retail banking site since December. The branch, located at 66 North Beverwyck Road, will bolster Unity Bank’s retail banking footprint to 21 branches across various New Jersey and Pennsylvania counties.
With its established business and residential lending programs in Morris County, the expansion of Unity Bank’s retail services aligns with its strategic growth plans. The bank aims to tap into the growing population and opportunities in Morris County, particularly in the residential mortgage lending sector. Unity Bank recognizes the enduring importance of branch-level banking services, especially for small business owners still relying on in-person banking services.
The Lake Hiawatha branch is scheduled to open in the summer, and Unity Bank is currently offering customer incentives for online account opening before the official launch of the retail location. Interested individuals can find more information about the promotion at unitybank.com/lakehiawatha.
The new branch, previously operated by Blue Foundry Bank, spans 3,864 square feet and features dedicated parking spaces, drive-up banking, and ATM services. Unity Bank recently expanded into Fort Lee in Bergen County and Lakewood in Ocean County, further diversifying its presence. The bank currently holds around $2.5 billion in assets and $1.8 billion in deposits.
PARSIPPANY — On Thursday, May 25, Parsippany High School Students organized its 2023 Drunk Driving Awareness Assembly to promote safety and responsibility during prom season.
This program was created to help raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving. Parsippany-Troy Hills law enforcement officials worked closely with school administrators, Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance Squad, Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad, Parsippany Fire Department District 5 and Atlantic Air Medical Air One, and other community stakeholders to help raise student awareness against drunk driving, especially at this time of the year with upcoming prom and graduation celebrations.
The program is unique from year to year, which adds to the impact on the students. The students created the video from beginning to end and take complete ownership of the project.
PARSIPPANY — On Memorial Day, Parsippany held a solemn observance to honor and pay tribute to those who have served in the military. The event commemorated the sacrifices of brave men and women who have defended our country. It allowed the community to unite, remember the fallen, and express gratitude for their service and dedication.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio addressed the audience. “I welcome you here this Memorial Day as we remember and honor the men and women who valiantly sacrificed their lives for the cause of freedom for our great nation. Our nation is as strong as it is because of the heroes that paid the ultimate price for their service to their country. Valiantly facing fear, these men and women did not back down even when they knew the odds were not in their favor. They were not fearless; they knew the risks but chose to fight bravely. That is pure and simple courage, which we pay tribute to today. There are no words that can adequately thank them or their families. The best we can do is remember them today and always. It does not seem like enough, but it is the only way to pay our respects, acknowledge their heroism, and continue to thank them for their service and sacrifice. Our nation is a better place because of these service men and women. Today as we look upon our nation’s flag, I ask you to remember your freedoms and blessings. I also ask that you remember living here in the great United States of America is a privilege.”
Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President Takes On Master of Ceremonies Role at Memorial Day ObservanceRabbi Sholom Lubin of Shaya Ahavat Torah Delivers Invocation at Memorial Day ObservanceAbigail Thurkauf of Girl Scout Troop 95089 Leads the Pledge of Allegiance at the Memorial Day ObservanceHunter Keller of Girl Scout Troop 97482 Presents Memorial Day Poem at ObservanceVFW Post 10184 Honors Fallen Heroes with Wreath-Laying CeremonySiobhan Fuller McConnell, American Gold Star Mother and Mother of Parsippany War Hero Derek McConnell, Delivers Keynote Address Parsippany Resident Michelle Musolino Performs National Anthem and God Bless America at Memorial Day ObservanceRev. Psomi Psomas-Jackloski of St. Andrew Lutheran Church Delivers Benediction at Memorial Day ObservanceParsippany-Troy Hills Council President Loretta Gragnani, Former Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, and Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi Attend Memorial Day CeremonyBruce Michels, Councilman Justin Musella, Council President Loretta Gragnani, and Michael Poplawski
The keynote speaker, Siobhan Fuller McConnell, said, “Ten years ago, on March 18, 2013, my son’s fiancee called me and gave me the worst news I have ever received. All I could do was sit at the top of the stairs and scream. My 23-year-old son, Sgt Derek McConnell, died of complications from wounds received in Afghanistan on July 23, 2011. While on patrol in the Zhari District, he encountered two IEDS that left him catastrophically injured. He lost both legs and the use of his right hand. He sustained fractures to his skull, jaw, and pelvis. He also endured a TBI and numerous infections that almost took him from us several times. He fought hard for 20 months but eventually climbed to eternal glory, shocking everyone who knew him.”
“I am a Gold Star Mother. My son and the 2.8 million others who have died for this country since the birth of this nation are why we have a three-day weekend this weekend. They are the ones who gave all, who selflessly signed on the bottom line and agreed to sacrifice their lives for us so that we could continue to live in a free country. No matter where their battlefield was, whether it was the beaches of Normandy, the islands of the Pacific, the deserts of Iraq or Syria, the mountains of Afghanistan, the skies over Europe, the jungles of Vietnam, or elsewhere-the stories of the fallen matter and need to be told, their sacrifices can never be forgotten. We owe them a debt of gratitude and undying respect and admiration. We can pay tribute to their memories and sacrifices by visiting their gravesites, placing flags or wreaths, or simply speaking their names. To truly honor their lives, we must share their stories with others and ensure their memories live on even though they are gone,” she continued.
“My son, Sgt Derek McConnell, paid that price. A few others from New Jersey whose names I will never forget and whose stories I have been told are SSG Timothy McGill, 30, lLT Dennis Zilinski II, 23, Spec. Ryan Doltz, 26. I’ve met their families, and I know their pain. We also have the 13 who died on August 26, 2021, at the Abbey Gate in Afghanistan, whose families I have also met and whose stories I will never forget. Among them is Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover, 31; Lance Corporal Rylee J. Mccollum, 20; Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss, 23) Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza, 20.”
“By sharing their stories, we keep their memories alive and give others a glimpse of the heroes they were. Derek was a true joy. He was a pain in the butt and drove us crazy, but ultimately, he was the one you wanted in your corner. He made us laugh. He made us want to kill him. There is a hole in our hearts that will never be full again. I could stand here for hours and regale you with stories of Derek that would make you laugh and cry. He is missed, and he will never be forgotten. I believe that those who have left us are always around us. They whisper to us like a light breeze across our ears, reminding us that we must cherish the gift of life. They smile at our sleeping children, the nieces and nephews they will never know. If we are still and open our minds and hearts, we can catch glimpses of them, whether it be in the dying rays of a sunset, the waves of the ocean as they crash against the shore, a butterfly or dragonfly that gently lands on a flower, or a song on the radio. If you listen closely, you can hear them whisper, “I am here. I am at peace. Carry on and never forget. Until we meet again.”
She continued, “It is up to us to use the gifts secured by those who made the ultimate sacrifice, to do as much good as possible and honor a debt that can never be repaid. On Memorial Day, we reflect and share the experiences of our fallen loved ones, but tomorrow and in the days that follow, we must act. Let’s carry their sacrifice with us in our hearts and strive to honor their memory by being good and faithful, hopeful and strong, and committed to building a brighter future for all. As a nation, we must remind ourselves of the future they fought for and do our best to live up to those values in the days ahead.”
Freedom is not free, and today we thank those who paid the price.
Mayor James Barberio, Siobhan Fuller McConnell, Michael Flannery, Laurily Merzatta, Rev. Posmi Psomas-Jackloski, and Michelle Musolino Unite in Memorial Day Observance
MORRIS COUNTY — The Board of County Commissioners declared May 2023 “Older Americans Month” in Morris County recent;y and presented a special proclamation and resolution of honor to two employees who have demonstrated exemplary dedication in their service to the county.
Commissioner Director Krickus presented a resolution of honor to longtime employee Pam James, Principal Buyer in the Office of the Morris County Clerk, who is retiring at the end of the month after 38 years of service.
“Pam’s efforts have contributed to the quality of service in Morris County, and her work has helped contribute to the success of four County Clerks and one Acting County Clerk… On behalf of the County Commissioners, we commend Ms. James for her accomplishments and extend our best wishes for many happy retirement years,” stated Director Krickus.
Fellow Commissioners and Clerk’s Office staff congratulated Pam while sharing their sentiments about how much they will miss her. Ms. James began her service with the county on May 6, 1985, when then-County Clerk Joseph J. Bell hired her to work in the Criminal Division. She excelled in her duties and was soon promoted to Assistant Buyer, where she worked on budget preparation, among many other responsibilities, including maintenance of inventory control, overseeing office renovations, election night activities, and special events, and working evenings in the passport department and swearing in notaries.
“She’s been with the county for so long and does everything. She will be missed,” stated Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi.
Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming Director Christine Hellyer, Fay Campbell, Deputy Director Myers, Director Krickus.
Fay Campbell, Clerk-4 for the Morris County Office on Aging, Disabilities & Community Programming, also celebrates her 40-year anniversary of working for the county this year. She was invited by Division Director, Christine Hellyer, to join her in accepting a proclamation for Older Americans Month. Deputy Director Myers, liaison to the Human Services Department, recognized Ms. Campbell for her milestone achievement.
“To have people like you and Pam is critical to the success of Morris County in all of its aspects. Without that continuity, without that kind of passion for the people of Morris County—without that kind of selfless love that says, ‘I’m going to do this every day, serving others,’—without that institutional knowledge, we wouldn’t be half as good as we are today. It is only because of people like you that others want to come and be like you. Thank you so much for all you’ve done,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Christine Myers said.
“The younger generation benefits from all that you have done… and all our older generations have taught us and encouraged us in perseverance, lifelong learning, and growing. The older generation is a jewel that can never lose its value,” Myers continued, “Morris County’s expanding and diverse population includes a growing number of older Americans who have enriched and continue to contribute to our wonderful New Jersey community.”
The Morris County Commissioners have regularly supported older Americans through many funded programs, including those provided through the Morris County Office of Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming. In its mission to “provide a continuum of care to help seniors, people with disabilities, and veterans in need,” the county office also works with State and County Agencies and partners with non-profit and community organizations.
The Morris County Board of County Commissioners, the Older Americans Act, and the State of New Jersey are responsible for much of the funding for these programs.
“I want to thank the Commissioners for all the support in Human Services, especially the division on Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming. For 2023 we are discussing ‘Aging Unbound’ for Older Americans Month, and we are trying to take away the stigma of what aging is. What is an older American? We are all aging, and we can all bring more to the picture… it includes retired individuals, our neighbors, our coworkers, our bosses, it includes people we work with every day. It’s the senior who works out more often than many of us or the senior who has a nutrition program. Aging has no bounds,” stated Hellyer.
Commissioners Selen, Smith, and Shaw; Christine Hellyer, Fay Campbell; Deputy Director Myers, Director Krickus, Commissioner Cabana.
PARSIPPANY — Rainbow Lakes held its Annual Memorial Service to Honor Fallen Heroes on Saturday, May 27, at Rainbow Park.
Charlie Engfer, taking on the role of master of ceremonies, skillfully led the proceedings during the Annual Memorial Service at Rainbow Park.
Charlie Engfer served in the United States Marine Corps in the late 60s and early 70s.
Charlie Engfer, serving as master of ceremonies, opened the ceremony with the following speech:
“It is my honor to be here today as we come together to remember and honor the service and sacrifice of our nation’s finest and bravest. As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not just to utter words, but to live by them.”
“We find ourselves here on this day, gathered together to reflect on this sentiment, uttered many years ago by President John F. Kennedy: Words, he believed, were useless when unaccompanied by action. This is why we – the money – gather here to honor our veterans – the few who were so willing to give of themselves to defend their brother and their country. A small fraction of our population is charged with keeping us safe and our liberties intact. So today, we strive to properly thank this fragment of the population that has done so much to keep this country, our prosperity, and our freedoms in place. It’s interesting how different generations of veterans respond to being thanked for their service. Our World War II veterans generally seem to receive it politely – stoically – knowing they had fulfilled their patriotic duty by fighting abroad. Korean and Vietnam War veterans, at times, overlooked, seem genuinely touched when welcomed home and remembered. Gratitude is accepted by our most recent generation of veterans, representing an even smaller percentage of the population than in previous wars. Still, many feel disconnected from their civilian peers,” said Engfer.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio eloquently expressed the sentiment of the occasion, urging everyone to honor and cherish the memories of the fallen heroes. With his words, he reminded the audience that although these brave individuals may be physically lost, their memory and legacy will forever remain in our hearts and minds. Mayor Barberio’s powerful statement resonated with those in attendance, emphasizing the importance of remembering and revering the sacrifices made by our fallen heroes.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor said, “I would like to welcome everyone on this solemn occasion as we pay tribute to the servicemen and women who selflessly sacrificed for their country. Each year we reaffirm our appreciation for those that were lost in service. We come together in this ceremony and speak about bravery and honor, but I am not sure that is enough to thank the servicemembers and their families for what they have lost. I think a better way to demonstrate our gratitude is by showing we are united as Americans. We do that as we unite today under one flag and pledge allegiance to this great nation. We must show we are united today and every day; otherwise, their sacrifice will have been in vain. We do not want to forget the powerful price of freedom. We need to ensure the legacy of these heroes by continuing to tell their stories to new generations and preserving their place in history. What makes our nation great are the ordinary people who stepped up when called into service or volunteered their service to protect and defend the United States. Their courage is an inspiration to all of us. Honor them, cherish their memories, and remember they may be lost but never forgotten and are always revered.”
Councilman Michael dePierro, Vietnam Era Veteran and US Air Force placed a flag on the monument representing the 116,700 dead soldiers from World War I.In her address, Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi called upon the audience to take a moment on Monday to reflect on the profound reasons that allow us to enjoy this time with our loved ones. She encouraged everyone to express silent gratitude to our fallen heroes and the courageous military personnel who have served. By acknowledging their sacrifices, we honor their memory and recognize the freedom and peace they have helped protect. Ann Grossi’s heartfelt words served as a reminder to pause and pay tribute to those who have selflessly dedicated themselves to our nation.
Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi and a Parsippany resident addressed the audience.
During the Annual Memorial Service held at Rainbow Park, Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi, a dedicated public servant and a resident of Parsippany, delivered a poignant address to the audience. With her insightful words, she acknowledged the sacrifices made by our fallen heroes and expressed gratitude for their service. Her presence and heartfelt speech added depth and meaning to the memorial service, reminding everyone of the significance of honoring those who have served our country.
She said, “Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start of the summer season, begins today. As we enjoy the company of our friends and families at BBQs, picnics, or a trip to the Jersey shore, let us not forget the true reason for this holiday. Originally known as Decoration Day, soldiers honor their fallen comrades by laying flowers, wreaths, and flags at their gravesites. In the late 1800s, the name changed to Memorial Day, but it would not become an officially recognized holiday until 1967. This Monday, May 29, is Memorial Day. It’s a day dedicated to honoring those men and women in our armed forces who sacrificed for our country. True heroes who deserve recognition. Each of us can show our gratitude to these heroes in many ways. Here are just a few.”
RESPECT … Respect our country, our flag, and each other. Remember those who died so that we might enjoy our many freedoms.
TEACH … Teach your children the meaning of Memorial Day. Teach them that America is the greatest nation in the world. We’re not perfect, but we strive to be. Teach them to be proud to pledge allegiance to our flag and our country.
GIVE THANKS… If you should meet a military member, say “THANK YOU” … a small gesture, but oh so meaningful to them.
REMEMBER… Remember the words of Ronald Reagan: “WE ARE FOREVER INDEBTED TO THOSE WHO HAVE GIVEN THEIR LIVES SO WE MAY BE FREE.”
So on Monday, please take a moment to reflect on the reasons that enable us to enjoy this time with family and friends. Please take a moment to thank our fallen heroes and our mighty military silently,” Grossi continued.
In closing, Engfer said, I would like to recognize those who have lost a loved one in the line of duty of this country. It doesn’t matter how much time has passed – no words of condolence can even begin to console a survivor’s grief adequately. And while grief from the loss may change throughout the years, it never leaves us.”
In a touching gesture of respect and remembrance, Rainbow Lakes Fire Chief Russell Greuter placed a flower bouquet to honor all those who have fallen. With deep reverence, he symbolically paid tribute to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community and country.Rainbow Lakes resident Jerry Manning, US Army Veteran Cold War Era, placed a flag on the monument representing 36,914 dead soldiers from Korean War. Many residents gathered at the Rainbow Lakes Memorial Day Ceremony, demonstrating their respect and remembrance for the fallen heroes. As a united community, they joined together to honor the courageous men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their nation. The solemn atmosphere was filled with gratitude and reverence as the residents paid their respects. This collective remembrance showcased the community’s deep appreciation and unwavering support for those who have selflessly served and protected our freedom.
