PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, March 23rd, the Parsippany Lions Club held its annual ‘Vision Of Hope’ event at the Parsippany Main Public Library.
Councilman Justin Musella expresses gratitude to volunteers for their dedicated efforts.
The main goal of the event was to provide complimentary vision screenings to people of all age groups, particularly targeting those without vision insurance and families facing financial constraints. A total of 79 individuals underwent vision screenings, and some of them will additionally receive free eyeglasses within the coming week.
“We believe that clear vision is essential for individuals to lead fulfilling lives,” said Pratap Jayakar, Zone Chair for Northern New Jersey at Lions Clubs International. “Through our annual ‘Vision of Hope’ event, we aspire to make a positive impact on the visual health of our community.
With the generous support of local businesses and organizations, we can ensure that every individual in need receives free vision screening and possibly eyeglasses.”
MORRIS COUNTY — Embark on a celestial journey this spring at the Longo Planetarium, located on the County College of Morris (CCM) campus. Two captivating shows await eager stargazers, offering insights into the upcoming solar eclipse and captivating sky stories from cultures around the globe.
Running until Saturday, May 11, on select Fridays and Saturdays, these immersive experiences are not to be missed. Tickets for all shows are priced at $10.00 per person, and advance online reservations are strongly recommended to secure your spot. Visit the Planetarium website by clicking here to book your tickets.
In “Totality: The Great American Solar Eclipse 2024,” discover the magic of celestial phenomena as you delve into the mechanics of solar and lunar eclipses. Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of a total solar eclipse, a rare occurrence where the moon aligns perfectly with the sun, casting a shadow across North America on Monday, April 8. Learn where and how to best view this spectacular event, as experts guide you through its significance. Recommended for ages 8 and above, this 45-minute show will leave you spellbound. Catch it on select Fridays at 9:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 3:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., with special preparatory shows on March 29 and March 30.
For a cultural odyssey through the night sky, join “One Sky: Sky Stories from Around the Globe.” This enchanting show celebrates the celestial tales of various cultures, from the Greeks’ myth of Orion to the Navajo’s Thunderbird legend. Explore the great Celestial Canoe of the Innu people and uncover how Hawaiians navigated the vast Pacific Ocean using the stars as their guide. Suitable for ages 6 and above, this 40-minute presentation offers a mesmerizing blend of folklore and astronomy. Catch it on select Fridays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 2:00 p.m., complete with a fascinating tour of the night sky and planets.
Located at 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph, the Longo Planetarium can be found in Cohen Hall Room 207 on the CCM campus. Parking is available in lot 7, with clear signage guiding visitors to Cohen Hall. Take a leisurely five-minute stroll from the parking lot to the planetarium, where an unforgettable celestial adventure awaits.
MORRIS COUNTY — Former Morris County Commissioner Kathryn DeFillippo received the 2024 Alex DeCroce Public Leadership Award, as local elected officials and business leaders gathered at the Park Avenue Club in Florham Park for the Morris County Chamber of Commerce’s annual Legislative Luncheon.
Morris County Commissioner Director Christine Myers highlighted DeFillippo’s many contributions to public service and invited fellow Commissioners Doug Cabana, Tayfun Selen, and Deborah Smith, as well as Chamber President Meghan Hunscher to join her in presenting the award.
“Kathy was Morris County’s champion of Human Services and an outspoken supporter of people in need. She advocated for the nonprofits we depend on in this county while also serving on the NJTPA (New Jersey Transportation Planning Authority) board since 2014, which she guided through the global pandemic for two years as director. She is a diverse talent and resource who we miss having on the Commissioner board,” said Commissioner Director Christine Myers.
DeFillippo, who is retired, served three terms on the Board of County Commissioners from 2014 to 2022, including two years as board director. During her tenure, she served as the chief liaison to the Morris County Department of Human Services and area nonprofits. She also served on the board of the New Jersey Metro Chapter of the National MS Society for ten years until 2016 and brought the fundraising Walk for MS to Roxbury, where she was Mayor in 2009 and served on the council from 2006 to 2013.
During her acceptance speech, DeFillippo attributed her success in public service to guidance she received from the late assemblyman early on in her career.
“Alex said to me that to lead I need to understand my community and use my voice to make things happen. That’s what I always tried to do. So, I think this afternoon we should listen once again to Alex’s advice. It takes a lot of demanding work, long hours, and a tremendous commitment to make our communities a great place to live, work, and raise a family… I am grateful for this recognition,” said DeFillippo.
Kathryn DeFillippo and Commissioner Tayfun Selen.
While serving on the board of the NJTPA, DeFillippo was elected chair in 2020 and 2021. Under her leadership, the NJTPA adopted plan 2050 to prioritize the transportation needs and challenges over the next 30 years, which prompted a major infrastructure investment for New Jersey under the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The Morris Canal restoration was also completed in 2022, a project 16 years in the making that got its biggest push in 2019 when the NJTPA funded more than $3.4 million through their Transportation Alternative Grant Program.
This year’s Legislative Luncheon keynote speech was delivered by Micah Rasmussen, director of the Rebovich Institute for New Jersey Politics, who spoke on the significance of the upcoming elections for New Jersey. He was introduced by Rosalie Serapiglia, Vice President of Government Affairs for Tilcon and Co-Chair of Chamber Gov’t Affairs Forums.
Following the keynote, Rasmussen joined an informative panel discussion between state Senators Anthony Bucco (R-25) and Andrew Zwicker (D-16) regarding legislative matters that affect state residents and businesses. The panel was moderated by Sal Anderton, Esq., Vice President and General Counsel for Porzio Governmental Affairs and Co-Chair of the MCCC’s Government Affairs Forums.
Each year, the Chamber nominates a Morris County official for the Alex DeCroce Public Leadership Award who exemplifies the values of public service by Assemblyman Alex DeCroce: an unwavering commitment to making the community a great place to live, grow a business, and raise a family.
The annual Legislative Luncheon, part of the chamber’s Public Policy Series, is open to both chamber members and non-members. For more information, visit the Morris County Chamber of Commerce website.
MORRIS COUNTY — As my group of foodie friends and I headed out for a casual lunch at a popular local pizzeria it came to mind that these wonderful little eateries, spattered throughout every town and city, are often overlooked when seeking out some of the most satisfying, comforting, family-friendly, reasonably priced food you’ll ever need.
Located at 307 Main Street, Pasquale’s stands out as an appealing, stylish building, with its large arched windows and yellow-painted frontage, welcoming you in.
Our gathering brought us to one of vibrant downtown Boonton’s longest-lasting eateries, Pasquale’s Pizza Restaurant. Located at 307 Main Street, Pasquale’s stands out as an appealing, stylish building, with its large arched windows and yellow-painted frontage, welcoming you in. On entry, you are immediately immersed in an atmosphere that is reminiscent of an old-school-style pizzeria. Reminded me of those small, wonderful pizzerias that I used to stop in at as a kid, and that’s an exceptionally long time ago.
Get Acquainted with Tony Biago: The Passionate Culinary Maestro Behind Pasquale’s Pizza Restaurant
As you walk in the door your senses are immediately stimulated with that tantalizing aroma of freshly baked dough, tomato sauce, and all those herbs and spices that make Italian American food one of the most popular foods in America. There is a small dining area, with a corner nook, and maybe room for five tables, yet spacious and airy enough to dine in comfort. The interior is pristine, and the black walls covered with paintings by a local artist, provide an eye-catching, distinctive, and whimsical motif. The black walls covered with cheerful photos of pizzas, food names, catchy expressions, and old family photos create a vibe that can only raise your spirit no matter how your day is going. Those large exterior windows allow for a well-lighted and cozy atmosphere, and the Victorian-style tin-type ceiling, brick, and soft rustic wood accents are well thought out. Pasquale’s also boasts an immaculately clean open kitchen, where you can watch owner, and Pizzaiola, Tony Biago working the peel as he expertly shakes, turns, and prepares a fresh pie. When asked about the décor, Tony stated, “I wanted to create an old school feel, with a little pinkie of modern.” Congrats Tony, you did it!
Patrick Minutillo Relishes a Conversation with Tony Biago, Pasquale’s Pizza Restaurant Owner, While Savoring a Delectable Slice of Grandma Pie.
Meeting with Owner Tony Biago was a true pleasure. His joyful and exuberant personality filled the room. Being a top-notch chef is unquestionably important, but being able to relate to, care for, and connect on a personal level with your customers is to me what makes a restaurant stand out. Tony told me that he can recall all his regular customers by name, and what their favorite dishes are. I have never been to Pasquale’s, but after just a few minutes I felt like I had been a customer for years. That’s something special!
I was able to sit with Tony for a bit between orders to discuss his journey. He told me his dream was to become a golf pro, and that he once took a job as a breakfast cook at a golf course so that he could practice his game later in the day. Raised in a traditional Italian American household, where he watched and learned how to cook Italian dishes from his Mother, and where he claims to have developed his taste for good food, he always had that as a backup if the golf thing didn’t work out. In 1989, with the golf career not looking promising, he happened across a newspaper ad for a pizzeria in a Town called Boonton. A ways from Belmar, where he was living, didn’t stop Tony from checking out this prospect. Once introduced to the historic, lively, vibrant, eclectic community of Boonton, with its quaint rolling hills and wide range of restaurants, it wasn’t long before Tony opened the doors to Pasquale’s. That was 35 years ago, and Pasquale’s is still going strong and is more popular than ever.
In July of 2015, Boonton ran a Pizza throwdown, where 11,000 people came out to try slices from local pizzerias. Tony is proud that despite some great pizzerias participating, Pasquale’s won bragging rights at the end of the day for “Best Crust,” “Best Sauce,” “Best Regular Sicilian,” Best Grandma’s,” and “Best Overall.” The newspaper article still hangs in his restaurant today. In June of 2020, Barstool’s David Portnoy visited Pasquale’s, famous for his internet pizza reviews. Now, I enjoy Portnoy’s reviews, but he was not in a good mood during the visit, complaining and annoyed that no one answered his phone call, he settled for a slice, went outside, and gave Pasquale a mediocre score. Not that he would ever read this, but Dave, I would suggest you make a return visit to Boonton and give it a fair shot.
Now we were anxious to sample some of the menu. Tony let us know that everything is fresh and made from scratch, and all his dishes are made to order. He says he tries to have something for everyone, and that kids particularly love his pizza. He let me know that the bulk of his business is take-out and that he feels honored that so many of his customers, who are like family, are returning customers. “Even people who move down to the shore still keep coming back.” The menu offered a nice variety of your usual pizzeria standards; appetizers, pizza, dinners (chicken, pasta, veal, eggplant, etc.), calzones and strombolis (buffalo, chicken, spinach, sausage, etc.), cold and hot subs, wraps, grilled dishes (Italian Hot Dog, assorted burgers), kids meals (yes, even chicken fingers.), and don’t forget to bring along your favorite bottle of vino, as Pasquale’s is BYOB.
Discover the Irresistible Flavor of Pasquale’s Buffalo Chicken Strombolis: Succulent Chicken, Tangy Buffalo Sauce, and Melted Cheese Encased in a Crispy, Flaky Dough.
Our group asked Tony to just bring out a Grandma and Sicilian Pie, Buffalo Chicken Roll, Sausage Broccoli Rabe Rol, and Sausage Roll to start. As usual, this was to be shared as a group as an appetizer, before we considered our entrees. I don’t know what we were thinking but enough food came out to feed our group three times over, and still leave enough to take home. Obviously, and somewhat sadly, entrees would have to wait until another visit.
Indulge in Pasquale’s Abundant Antipasto Salad: A Vibrant Array of Meats, Cheeses, and Fresh Greens, Accompanied by Crusty Italian Bread.
The first to come out were the Grandma and Sicilian Pies. Frequently, I often hear people ask what’s the difference. To put it as simply as possible, a Sicilian pie is a thick crust pizza, with a nice crispy texture, thick fluffy crust, slightly oily, and baked in a square tray. Grandma pizza, on the other hand, has a crust that isn’t given that extra time to rise before it’s topped and baked, so while it may still be thicker than a standard New York slice, it’s still much thinner and less chewy than the Sicilian crust. Even though, all are made with the same dough, the cooking method is different for each style of pie.
Savor the Perfect Balance of Textures in Pasquale’s Sicilian Pie: Crispy, Charred Crust Complemented by a Soft, Pillowy Base, and an Even Spread of Sauce and Cheese.
Before visiting Pasquale’s, I had heard that his Sicilian pie was something special, so there was no way I was going to leave without trying it. It did not disappoint! Nicely cooked; crispy, crunchy, slightly charred crust, with a soft, spongy, pillowy base, covered with a perfect distribution of sauce to cheese. Beautifully textured Sicilian Pie! Tony explained that all his homemade tomato sauces are prepared differently to complement each style of pie. As I tried the thinner Grandma Pie, (also a square pie) which leans towards a more prominent sauce-to-cheese ratio, I could see what he was talking about. Each pie, delicious on its own, had its distinct taste, and in both cases, the sauce was vibrant, with a well-rounded flavor, tangy and sweet. I enjoyed both equally.
Delight in Pasquale’s Signature Garlic Knots: A Flavorful Twist to Your Dining Experience”
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the generously sized antipasto salad that preceded the meal. Lots of delectable, assorted meats, cheeses, roasted peppers, olives, arugula, and peppers, and course, crusty Italian bread, just to kick off our appetites. Don’t forget the garlic knots!
Tortellini Alfredo: A Luxurious Pasta Dish featuring tender, cheese-filled tortellini enveloped in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. Enhanced with savory Parmesan cheese and aromatic garlic, this classic Italian comfort food is a harmonious blend of indulgent flavors and textures, guaranteed to satisfy your palate and warm your soul
Following the pizzas, out came the freshly baked entrees. I don’t know how we could still be eating! Buffalo Chicken Roll, Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Roll, and Strombolis (sort of a rolled-up cousin of pizza), and whatever else Tony brought out. Both the Buffalo Chicken (Chicken, Mozzarella, Blue Cheese, and Hot Sauce, wrapped in a beautifully baked crust), and Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Rolls, and Sausage Roll were all packed with flavor, and loaded with pleasurable, gooey goodness in every bite. Nice mouth feel, as I eagerly sank my teeth into that crunchy, subtle, textured dough to discover all those wonderful fillings of meats, cheeses, and vegetables inside. After a piece of each one, I had to surrender, as did my dining group. And there was still plenty for everyone in the group to take home and enjoy at another time.
It was an enjoyable dining experience at Pasquale’s, and we have to thank Tony Biago for making us feel like family, and for his wonderful hospitality during our visit. I will be back soon to try some of the rest of the menu.
Gazie, cibo delizioso!
Dine In – Take Out – Delivery – On-Line Ordering – Catering; Reasonably Priced – BYOB; Open 7 Days a Week – 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; Street Parking;
PARSIPPANY — New members joining community organizations like the Kiwanis Club is always nice. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany does great work in the community, so I’m sure Bonnie Gessling and Bridget Cazzetto will make valuable contributions as new members. And it’s always wonderful to see existing members like Doreen Brennan and Frank Cahill sponsoring new members and helping to grow the organization.
President Carol Tiesi said, “Kiwanis is something so good that each of us loves to share it. What better way to show our love for our club and community than to welcome a new member? Today we’re very pleased to welcome Bonnie and Bridget to our club. We welcome Bonnie and Bridget to our global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world, one child, and one community at a time. She eagerly anticipates actively engaging with the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.
Frank warmly welcomes Bridget to our club by placing the official Kiwanis pin on her.
Bonnie is a skilled massage therapist, offering deep tissue, sports, oncology, hot stone, and cupping treatments. Additionally, she provides holistic healing, metaphysical therapies, and non-surgical body treatments. She also serves on the Board of Lake Hiawatha Swim Club.
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.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany supports ten K-Kids clubs, Lake Parsippany Elementary School, Eastlake Elementary School, Intervale School, Mt. Tabor Elementary School, Littleton Elementary School, Lake Hiawatha Elementary School, Troy Hills Elementary School, Northvail Elementary School, Knollwood School, and Rockaway Meadow Elementary School, two builders clubs, Central Middle School and Brooklawn Middle School; two Key Clubs, Parsippany Hills High School and Parsippany High School and one Aktion Club.
If you are interested in learning more about the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, contact President Carol Tiesi. Click here to view the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany website.
I just read the article titled Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education Responds to Mayor’s Office Statement Regarding State Aid.
Having done so, I am a bit confused by Mayor Barberio’s ongoing refusal to meet with the Board of Education to discuss how best to partner to prevent the inevitable tax revenue shortfalls that will be created for the next 30 years by the recently passed PILOTs.
As we all recall, Mayor Barberio made numerous public pronouncements during Council meetings, promising to meet with the Board to follow up on his promises that the Pilots would not negatively impact the education received by Parsippany’s children.
So where is the Mayor and how do we get him to keep his many public promises to meet with the Board of Education?
Maybe, because Mayor Barberio so loves to go to grand openings around town, cut ribbons, and have his picture taken, perhaps the Board could name a conference room in the Board office for former Board President Frank Neglia. The Board could then hold the requisite ribbon cutting and photo op ceremonies to mark the event. Given his propensity for publicity, the Mayor would surely show up, with scissors in hand, and while there he and the Board could finally have their much-delayed discussion.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Land Conservancy of New Jersey (TLCNJ) is committed to supporting scholars dedicated to environmental conservation, natural resource management, and related disciplines. With a legacy spanning 40 years, TLCNJ’s scholarship program, which began with the Russell W. Myers Scholarship in 1983 and expanded with the Rogers Family Scholarship in 2005, continues to empower future environmental leaders.
In 2024, TLCNJ is proud to offer six $10,000 scholarships, thanks to the generous support of our education initiatives’ advocates. We’re seeking individuals passionate about safeguarding our natural resources, and our selection process prioritizes equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Applications for the 2024 scholarship cycle are now open! New Jersey residents enrolled in accredited colleges or universities, whether in-state or out-of-state, with a minimum GPA of 3.3 are encouraged to apply. The deadline for submission is Monday, April 1.
To apply, download the scholarship application by clicking here and submit all required materials to the provided form below. Successful candidates will have their scholarship funds disbursed directly to their institution.
For further inquiries, please reach out to Breanna Durkin at bdurkin@tlc-nj.org or (973) 957-2683. Join us in shaping the future of environmental conservation!
PARSIPPANY — The Police Unity Tour is a deeply meaningful and poignant event that brings together law enforcement officers, survivors, and supporters to honor and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Originating in 1997, the tour has grown into a significant annual event, drawing participants from across the United States.
At the core of the Police Unity Tour is its mission to honor fallen officers and support their surviving family members and colleagues. Participants embark on a challenging journey, typically a long-distance bicycle ride, to symbolize the endurance and dedication required in their profession. This journey serves as a physical and emotional tribute to those who have fallen, embodying the motto “We Ride for Those Who Died.”
The tour also aims to raise awareness about the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and the challenges they face in ensuring public safety. By highlighting the stories of fallen officers and their families, the tour fosters greater appreciation and support for law enforcement within communities.
This year, Parsippany resident Nicolas Limanov will join the inaugural journey of the Police Unity Tour – Chapter 1, pedaling his bicycle from Fairfield, to Washington DC alongside several colleagues from the Riverdale Police Department. Limanov is riding in memory of Dover Police Officer Arthur J. Ohlsen III, Badge #115.
Two decades ago, on December 30, 2003, the Town of Dover mourned the tragic loss of Dover Police Officer Arthur J. Ohlsen III. He met his untimely end in the line of duty, while unwaveringly serving his community. Officer Ohlsen’s enduring legacy of dedication and service continues through his two sons, AJ and Trevor, who now proudly serve in the Parsippany Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. His wife, Bonnie, reflects on his passion, stating, “The police department and the racing team were what Art loved; that was his life, that’s what he did. He gave his life doing what he wanted to do.”
Dover Police Officer Arthur J. Ohlsen II
Throughout the tour, participants experience camaraderie and solidarity, forging bonds with fellow riders and sharing stories of service and sacrifice. The journey culminates in a solemn arrival at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, where participants pay their respects to fallen heroes and attend memorial ceremonies.
As a lifelong resident of Parsippany, Limanov proudly contributes to community service as a member of Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member, and as a Past President of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.
Your support is crucial to the cause, and are asking for donations. Every contribution, whether from individuals or businesses, is profoundly valued and sincerely appreciated by them.
Would you kindly consider supporting our cause by donating? Your generosity will make a significant difference and is greatly appreciated.
MORRIS PLAINS — The Morris Plains Police Department is reaching out to the public for help in identifying individuals involved in a robbery that occurred on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at 7:14 p.m.
The suspects entered the Sephora store situated within the Kohls Department store at 1711 Route 10 East and concealed merchandise valued at almost $1,700.
Upon exiting the store, they were confronted by store employees. One suspect, wearing a black hat and jacket, brandished a box-cutter before hastily leaving the premises. Both suspects then fled in a black Chevrolet Impala.
Additionally, the suspects were involved in shoplifting incidents at Kohls in Newton and Roxbury, amounting to over $5,500 in losses.
If you have any information, contact The Morris County CrimeStoppers at www.copcall.org,or (973) COPP-CALL.
PARSIPPANY — Mayor Barberio is committed to constructive dialogue and wants to avoid engaging in a public tit-for-tat with the school district. The Township’s issuance of the press release aligns with its ongoing commitment to keeping residents well-informed.
Highlighting an increase of $1.4M when many municipalities saw decreases in funding from the State budget is not only noteworthy but also reflects positively on our community.
It’s essential to recognize that, like the school district, the Township operates within state- mandated constraints and inflationary pressures, yet it did not receive a nearly 14% boost
in state aid. Further, the school district should stop misleading the public by saying the PILOT projects will result in a “loss in revenue” to the school district, this is simply not accurate information. Claims of revenue loss are untrue, and it’s time to dispel such misconceptions. The Township has provided comprehensive FAQs for those seeking accurate information which can be found here.
Mayor Barberio welcomes a meeting with the school board, just as he reached out last fall to discuss the PILOT projects before them being considered by the Township Council. The Township looks forward to well-intentioned and meaningful discussions aimed at delivering optimal services to taxpayers in a financially prudent manner.
