PARSIPPANY — The Board of Education of Parsippany-Troy Hills is providing this information to add much-needed clarity to the press release issued by the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills on March 15, 2024, titled “Parsippany Schools Receive Significant Boost in Funding from New Jersey State Budget,” which was covered by Parsippany Focuson March 16, 2024. It would have been helpful to the residents of Parsippany if the Mayor’s Office or Parsippany Focus had reached out to the Board of Education to provide a more complete and balanced analysis. As published, that press release is a decidedly one-sided version with only a fleeting embrace of reality.
While the increase of approximately $1.4MM is most welcome, this increase represents less than 1% of the total proposed school budget for 2024-2025 of over $182MM. It is one small piece of a large puzzle. The increase will help to make up for the shortfall that comes with the structural ceiling of the state’s 2% increase limitation on the school’s tax levy, increased costs due to inflation, and the loss of revenue that will inevitably result from the PILOT projects. The $1.4MM increase from the state is far less than the loss of annual tax revenue from even one of the approved PILOT projects recently pushed by the Mayor and Town Council. The unfunded burdens caused by PILOT projects will negatively impact the school district for the next thirty years. It is also worth noting that State and Federal Grants, which are distinct from Federal and State Aid, are $600K lower than last year.
The Township’s statement touts a “substantial increase,” and emphasizes the 13.95% rise from the previous year’s allocation to create a false narrative that surplus funds now exist in the upcoming school budget. However, that 13.95% increase in state funding equates to less than 1% of the school district’s anticipated overall budget for the 2024-2025 school year, a fact Mayor Barberio acknowledged in the last Town Council Meeting. That acknowledgment was missing in the town’s press release.
While any increase in funding is appreciated, it is important for Parsippany taxpayers to have a comprehensive understanding of the realities facing the Parsippany school district. An objective analysis ensures that residents are well-informed about the complexities of education funding in our community. The Parsippany Board of Education has extended numerous unaccepted invitations to the Mayor to discuss items that would be beneficial for our residents. These items include the increase to class size as a result of residential developments, and the negative effects on school programs resulting from the readjustment in the tax base because of PILOT projects. The Parsippany-Troy Hills School District remains open to meaningful discussions with the Township.
Editors Note: Parsippany Focus does not edit or comment on press releases, we just merely publish the supplied information.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), and President of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association (MCPCA) President Morris Plains Police Chief Michael Koroski announce the allocation of $963,000 in Community Project Funding (CPF) towards the enhancement of the Morris County’s regional Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) program. The funding, along with 14 other CPF requests submitted to the House Appropriations Committee for Fiscal Year 2024, was subsequently passed by the House of Representatives, and the U.S. Senate, and signed into law by the President.
The $963,000 is intended for crime prevention and citizen assistance through the existing regional ALPR program, for the installation of additional fixed and mobile units to help combat auto thefts and home invasions. The equipment will be purchased by the Morris County Office of Emergency Management (OEM), which maintains the network.
Rep. Sherrill said, “I am proud to have led efforts in the House to cut through bureaucratic red tape and secure funding for Community Projects that will have a tangible impact on our district and state by bringing federal resources back to address our most pressing concerns. Public safety, specifically combatting auto thefts, is one of the top issues I hear about from local leaders and constituents. With this Community Project funding, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office will be able to support local law enforcement with additional Automated License Plate Reader mobile and fixed units to address the rise in auto thefts and associated home invasions. I want to thank Prosecutor Carroll and his team for their work on behalf of the residents of Morris County and for submitting this project. And thank you to the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and law enforcement across the county for their ongoing work to keep our communities safe.”
Prosecutor Carroll said, “On behalf of my Office, I sincerely appreciate the legislative efforts of Representative Sherrill to empower law enforcement to expand the use of this vital technology, especially when it comes to stopping criminal auto theft organizations from targeting our community. We rely on our legislative partners to assist with securing the critical funding needed to acquire additional ALPRs and strengthen our existing system.”
Chief Koroski said, “The Chiefs of Police of Morris County express their immense gratitude to Congresswoman Sherrill for her efforts in securing critical funding and to Prosecutor Carroll for his continued unwavering support. The ALPR technology has been extremely valuable in aiding law enforcement in the prevention, detection, and investigation of crime. The technology allows instantaneous alerts of stolen vehicles and wanted and missing persons, empowering our officers to ensure better safety for our communities. Morris County takes pride in its partnerships with Prosecutor Carroll, Sheriff Gannon, and the Municipal Police Chiefs that allow us to provide unparalleled police services.”
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, accompanied by Senator Anthony Bucco, Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen, Parsippany-Troy Hills Deputy Chief Brian Dowd, Councilman Matt McGrath, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Rob Peluso, Former Council President Mike dePierro, welcomed Morris Golf Shop to Lake Hiawatha with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, February 22nd.
Owner Phil Marshall and his wife Jill were also present. The Morris Golf Shop boasts a state-of-the-art golf simulator and offers a wide selection of golf equipment. “I extend my best wishes for your success,” remarked the Mayor. “Your shop is a delightful addition to downtown Lake Hiawatha!”
Cahill presented a plaque welcoming Morris Golf to Parsippany. He said “Morris Golf Shop provides customers with a unique and personalized fitting experience that sets them apart from larger golf stores. Their comprehensive selection includes top-quality golf equipment, such as clubs, balls, and accessories from leading brands, catering to golfers of all skill levels. Thank you for being a part of our community! #PRIDEINPARSIPPANY.”
Morris Golf Shop is located at 96 North Beverwyck Road.
Frank Cahill, Chairman Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development presents Phil Marshall with a plaque welcoming Morris Golf Shop to Parsippany.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council has scheduled a meeting for Tuesday, March 19, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will occur in the Council Chambers at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard within the Parsippany Municipal Building.
Formal action may or may not be taken.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for the meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request an auxiliary aid.
Mayor James Barberio Council President Paul Carifi, Jr. Council Vice President Frank Neglia Councilman Justin Musella Councilman Matt McGrath Councilwoman Judy Hernandez
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany joyously welcomes Ananya Kasarla as the First Female Eagle Scout, marking a significant milestone in the local Boy Scouts of America program. Historically, the prestigious Eagle Scout rank has been achieved solely by boys or young men. However, with the Boy Scouts of America’s decision to admit girls in 2019, Parsippany now celebrates its inaugural female Eagle Scout in Ananya. Ananya’s achievement also holds the additional distinction as she becomes the 101st Eagle within Parsippany’s Troop 72. With this honor, Ananya proudly assumes the title of Parsippany’s first female Eagle Scout, a testament to her dedication and leadership within the community.
The Eagle Court of Honor was held on Sunday, March 10 at All Saints Academy.
Ananya Kasarla’s family, including her father Swachender Kasarla, mother Krupali Bandi, and brother Aditya Kasarla, celebrates her extraordinary accomplishment as the First Female Eagle Scout in Parsippany.
The honor and distinction of the Eagle Scout rank can only be achieved through hard work and commitment to the ideals of the Scouting movement. The achievement is so rare, that only 6% of Scouts earn the Eagle rank. Since its introduction in 1911, the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by more than two million Scouts.
Ms. Magda Menner serves as the Scoutmaster for Parsippany Troop 72G, providing guidance and leadership to the troop’s members, including Ananya Kasarla, the First Female Eagle Scout.
Once a Scout advances to Eagle Scout, they will remain an Eagle for the rest of their life regardless of age or participation in Scouting. Eagle Scouts are expected to set an example for other Scouts and to become the leaders in life that they have demonstrated themselves to be in Scouting. As such, they have disproportionately represented in the military, service academy graduates, higher education and academia, major professions, the clergy, business, and politics.
Ananya selected her brother, Aditya Kasarla, to serve as the master of ceremonies for the special occasion, adding a personal touch to the celebration of her achievement as the First Female Eagle Scout.
Ananya has been part of Scouts BSA, Troop 72G since April 2019 when she was the first girl to join the troop. The troop slowly grew from a single girl to seven others over the last four years.
Cathryn Smith lighting the Eagle Trail ceremony signifies a poignant moment in the celebration, likely illuminating the path of achievement and leadership for future scouts, particularly with the historic milestone of Ananya Kasarla becoming the First Female Eagle Scout. Ananya undertook her Eagle project at Celebrate the Children, focusing on constructing an outdoor classroom adjacent to their environmental center. The purpose of this project was to provide students with a conducive environment for outdoor learning and activities, fostering a connection with nature in an open-air setting.
Ananya completed her Eagle project at Celebrate the Children in Denville. Her project involved building an outdoor classroom next to their environmental center so students would be able to work and learn outside in an open space. It consisted of three picnic tables that could fit six people each as well as an easel and chalkboard for teachers. The project was completed at the end of July 2023, and the area is currently used by students when classes are held outside.
Ananya enlisted the help of volunteers to assist with her Eagle project at Celebrate the Children in Denville. Together, they worked diligently to bring her vision of building an outdoor classroom to fruition, contributing their time and effort to benefit the students and community. The volunteers are spreading the mulch as part of Ananya’s Eagle project at Celebrate the Children. Her project centered on constructing an outdoor classroom near the environmental center, aiming to create a space where students could engage in outdoor learning and activities. This initiative aimed to foster a deeper connection with nature and provide a conducive environment for educational experiences in an open-air setting.
Ananya was the Senior Patrol Leader of Troop 72G for the last two years. She attended National Youth Leadership Training as a participant in 2021. Ananya was interviewed and asked to staff NYLT in 2022. Parsippany only has one Scout’s BSA female troop within the town. She graduated from the Academy of Math, Science, and Engineering at Morris Hills High School in June 2023, and is currently a freshman at Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, majoring in Biology.
Ananya’s mom, Ms. Bandi, proudly pins the Eagle medal to her daughter’s uniform, symbolizing the culmination of Ananya’s hard work, dedication, and perseverance on her journey to becoming the First Female Eagle Scout in Parsippany. It’s a heartfelt moment that signifies not only Ananya’s achievement but also the support and encouragement she has received from her family throughout her scouting journey.In recognition of her mother’s unwavering support and encouragement throughout her scouting journey, Ananya presents the Mother’s Eagle Pin and delicately pins it on her mother, Ms. Bandi. This heartfelt gesture symbolizes the profound gratitude and appreciation Ananya holds for her mother’s role in helping her achieve the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. It’s a touching moment that celebrates the bond between mother and daughter and acknowledges the invaluable support of family in the pursuit of dreams and aspirations.Ananya, recognizing her father’s steadfast support and guidance along her journey to becoming an Eagle Scout, presents him with an Eagle lapel pin as a token of her appreciation. This gesture symbolizes the importance of his encouragement and wisdom in helping her achieve this significant milestone. It’s a touching moment that honors the bond between father and daughter and acknowledges the invaluable role of family in shaping and supporting one’s aspirations and accomplishments.Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio proudly presented Ananya with an Eagle and an American Flag, symbolizing not only her achievement as the First Female Eagle Scout but also her dedication to patriotism and service to her community. This gesture highlights the significance of her accomplishment and the recognition she receives from local leadership, further inspiring Ananya and others to continue making a positive impact in Parsippany-Troy Hills.Assemblyman Brian Bergen and Assemblyman Jay Webber, standing side by side, jointly present Ananya with a Proclamation, acknowledging her historic achievement as the First Female Eagle Scout in Parsippany. This official document serves as a testament to Ananya’s dedication, leadership, and service to her community, as well as a recognition of her trailblazing role in breaking barriers within the scouting movement. The proclamation honors Ananya’s commitment to excellence and serves as an inspiration to others to strive for their own goals and aspirations.
Ananya has continuously demonstrated leadership in her school, scouting, and community activities.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Matt McGrath extends his heartfelt congratulations to Ananya for her remarkable achievement as the First Female Eagle Scout in the community.
Ananya earned 24 merit badges, including the 14 that are required. First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, Citizenship in Society, Communications, Personal Fitness, Emergency Preparedness or Lifesaving, Environmental Science, Personal Management, Swimming or Hiking or Cycling, Camping and Family Life. She earned 10 additional merit badges, totaling 24 merit badges.
Keith Hawkins, Jr., Keith Nguyen, Ananya Kasarla, and Charlie Sonzogni, pictured alongside Cheri Alexander, Administrative Generalist of Celebrate the Children, all have one thing in common: they are Eagle Scouts who chose Celebrate the Children for their own personal Eagle projects. Their collective efforts demonstrate a commitment to serving their community and making a positive impact on the lives of others. This shared dedication to community service and leadership exemplifies the values of scouting and highlights the importance of giving back to those in need.
Ananya has exceeded the basic requirements to become an Eagle Scout, successfully passed her board of review, and thus, earned the rank of Eagle Scout.
Troop 72 was founded in 1954 and served the boys of the Parsippany Area until March 12, 2019. On March 12, 2019, Rev. Msgr. Herbert K. Tillyer signed the Scouts BSA New Unit Application for a Scouts BSA linked troop, thereby creating two Troop 72’s. This opens a new chapter in Troop 72 history, where we can now provide the same outstanding program to both boys and girls.
Ananya is captured holding a plaque she received from Celebrate the Children, commemorating her dedication and contribution to the organization. This moment symbolizes her commitment to serving her community and making a positive impact on the lives of others, reflecting the values of scouting and the spirit of volunteerism.
Scouts hailing from various corners of Parsippany and beyond are represented. They attend schools such as Brooklawn Middle School, Central Middle School, Parsippany High School, and Parsippany Hills High School, as well as other institutions beyond the Parsippany public school system.
Troop 72 is sponsored by Saint Peter the Apostle Church and meets in the cafeteria at All Saints Academy. They attend Scout Sunday at Saint Peter’s, and their annual food drive benefits the Saint Peter food pantry.
Troop 72 participates in community service work with multiple churches and civic organizations. They welcome any requests from the community and are always happy to help.
For more information on Scouts BSA Troop 72 Parsippany, click here.
Betty Lagitch, representing the Women’s Club of Parsippany, proudly presented Ananya with a certificate in recognition of her achievement as the First Female Eagle Scout. Ananya’s mother, Krupali Bandi, looked on with pride as her daughter received this honor.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, April 2024. Click here to view the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — Join Wise Animal Rescue for a special fundraising event on Tuesday, March 26th, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Attendees can enjoy a Zumba session or simply hang out with the organization. All proceeds will support Wise Animal Rescue’s TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) program, which aims to reduce the population of stray cats in the community and find loving homes for adoptable cats.
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Big Red, a rescued TNR cat who received necessary eye surgery through Wise Rescue’s efforts. Tickets can be pre-booked for $15.00 or purchased at the door for $20.00. For presale tickets or further information, individuals can call/text (862) 881-0602. Each ticket purchase includes a raffle entry, and light snacks and refreshments will be available.
Guests can participate in Zumba sessions led by Wise Animal Rescue’s fantastic instructors Anthony, Ally G, Kiara, and Reena, or they can enjoy refreshments while meeting Big Red and viewing a slideshow of the organization’s TNR work. The event will be held at 25 Crescent Drive, Lake Hiawatha/4 Volunteers Court, Lake Hiawatha. Please note that both addresses are correct depending on GPS, with the entrance located at Volunteers Park.
Supporters are encouraged to attend and contribute to Wise Animal Rescue’s efforts to assist community cats. The organization looks forward to seeing everyone there!
MORRIS COUNTY — The Annual Law Enforcement Night, jointly hosted by the 200 Club of Morris County, Morris County Sheriff’s Department, and the New Jersey Coalition 4 Education & Positive Choices, proved to be an outstanding success, drawing a crowd that filled the Mennan Arena.
Get Up Close with Law Enforcement Tech: Morris County Sheriff’s Department Exhibits at 2024 Night
With over 100 attendees, the event provided an opportunity to hear from and honor law enforcement representatives from local towns. Attendees had the chance to explore state-of-the-art vehicles, equipment, and an array of captivating merchandise. Both children and parents alike reveled in the festivities.
The NJ Coalition for Education and Positive Choices has gained recognition in Morris County for its numerous initiatives and the valuable information it provides to combat drug and alcohol abuse. The Coalition advocates for introducing children to new activities and promoting substance-free events to boost their self-esteem. Comprising elected officials, law enforcement personnel, educational leaders, and concerned citizens, the Coalition stays current with the latest trends and challenges affecting our children.
Law Enforcement Night brings together officers and police departments from across the state. It offered youngsters a firsthand look at how law enforcement officers positively impact our community.
The array of equipment on display at this event never fails to impress, even adults. Attendees can explore the Morris County Hope One Van, examine various ambulances and emergency vehicles, try on riot gear, handle handcuffs, and engage with the law enforcement community in a fun and engaging atmosphere.”
At the 2024 Law Enforcement Night, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Hanover Township Committeeman Ronald F. Francioli, and Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher unite for a powerful evening of community solidarity.Florham Park resident Andrew Lanskey with Morris County Sheriff James GannonBill Spadea, NJ101.5, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, and Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher unite for a powerful evening of community solidarity.
Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon and his team were present, engaging with attendees to discuss safety and heroism. Participating towns included Morristown, Madison, Parsippany, Hanover, Morris Plains, East Hanover, Florham Park, and many others. Displays from organizations such as Hope One, Morris County Prosecutors Office, and JBWS added to the event’s richness and diversity.
Morris Plains Patrolman Nicholas Grawehr, Patrolman Joseph Kohl, Morris Plains Chief of Police Michael M. Koroski, District Director Kelli Doucette, from Mikie Sherrill’s Office, and Morris Plains Mayor Jason KarrEast Hanover Director of Fire and OEM John Centianni, Patrolman, Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, and Morris County Sheriff James GannonHanover Township Police Officers Jake Crane and Sergeant Bryan Pilipie represent their community with pride at Law Enforcement Night 2024.Morris County Prosecutors Officers Detective Jermaine Marbley and Detective Matthew MarinoParsippany Police Officers Remo Delassandro and Paul LeviFarrell Holleran, Jerry Rota, Suzanne Ceravolo, Joanne DeVito DePalma, and Anthony DePalma, members of the 200 Club of Morris CountyMadison Police Department: Corporal Aqunio and Corporal DiRoccoPatrolman Matt Cerrato, Patrolman Joseph Berardinelli, and Patrolman Robert Zimmerman of East Hanover Township stand together in service at Law Enforcement Night 2024.Florham Park resident Andrew Lansksey, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, and Lieutenant Daniel Bundschuh come together to support law enforcement at the 2024 Law Enforcement Night.Members of the Morris County Prosecutors Office
This event has a history of fostering relationships and often opens up career possibilities for teenagers who may not have previously considered such a path. Typically, people only encounter law enforcement officers and first responders on their worst days, but this event provides a unique opportunity to interact with them on a very positive note.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners tonight introduced their 2024 Budget with no increase in the tax rate for a fifth consecutive year, due to another year of growing ratables and prudent fiscal management to overcome rising costs.
“Despite state mandates driving up costs and hikes in expenses that are out of our control, such as health care costs, Morris County is again introducing a thoughtful, fiscally responsible budget. It addresses our obligation as County Commissioners to provide the services our residents require and deserve. It makes the investments necessary to keep Morris County the premier county in New Jersey, and yet it still enables us to keep the tax rate flat,” said Commissioner Deborah Smith, Chair of the Commissioners’ Budget Committee.
The proposed $365.3 million spending plan was presented to the full board by the Budget Committee, including Commissioners Doug Cabana and John Krickus. The plan continues to prioritize investments in public safety, infrastructure, education, and economic development and expands services to veterans.
Highlights in the budget include:
A combined $77.8 million towards public safety.
More than $24 million to support education, including career training at the County College of Morris and the Morris County Vocational School District.
A record $900,000 was invested in Economic Development and Tourism, with $100,000 for planning Morris County’s celebration of the American Revolution.
$9 million to support the Morris County Park Commission, stewards of the largest county park system in New Jersey (20,455 acres of parkland)
Adding $300,000 to homeless services provided by the Office of Temporary Assistance, with a total of $38.1 million for Human Services and Health Services.
“Public safety remains a paramount interest. The 2024 Budget provides strong funding to our Sheriff’s Department, his Patrol Division, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, and our Department of Law & Public Safety,” said Commissioner Krickus, noting public safety spending is being increased by more than $3 million.
Prudent fiscal management and an 8.8 percent increase in ratables also helped Morris County to address growing expenses forced by mounting state mandates on operations at the Morris County Clerk’s Office and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
“Our 2024 Budget also continues the Preservation Trust Fund investments that bolster the quality of life here and attract the people and businesses making Morris County the premier place to live, work, and raise a family,” said Commissioner Krickus. “To date, we have invested $169 million in farmland preservation, $295 million in open space preservation, $50 million into historic preservation, $100 million into flood mitigation, and $5 million in trail design and construction.”
The budget also focuses on the needs of veterans and families facing homelessness.
“We continue to expand our commitment to our veterans by funding a fourth Veterans Service Officer and a seasonal intern. We also are expanding our services to the growing homeless population,” said Commissioner Doug Cabana.
“We certainly are grateful to have nonprofit partners helping us to address the needs of our neighbors who find themselves seeking shelter. But it should be understood by everyone that the Morris County’s Human Services Department and its Office of Temporary Assistance serve the majority of our homeless population — and the most troubled individuals found in that population,” added Commissioner Cabana.
The 2024 Budget doubles to $300,000 a line item in emergency assistance funding to shelter and support people experiencing homelessness. The budget also allocates another $150,000 toward funding allocated to prevent people from becoming homeless.
The introduced 2024 Budget also includes the 2024 Capital Spending Plan initially presented in December, putting nearly $35 million toward many projects, among them road resurfacing, improving intersections replacing bridges in the county, and maintaining county facilities.
The Morris County Commissioners will consider the adoption of the 2024 Budget at their Wednesday, April 10, 2024, public meeting.
PARSIPPANY — Don’t miss out as The Addams Family comes to Parsippany High School from Thursday, March 21 to Saturday, March 23! Join us for four spectacular performances of this beloved classic on the Parsippany High School stage.
Showtimes are at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 21, Friday, March 22, and Saturday, March 23, with a special matinee on Saturday at 2:00 p.m.
Tickets will be available at the door, and they accept cash or checks. Prices are $15.00 for adults and $5.00 for children. All Parsippany Troy Hills School District students enjoy free admission!
Bring your family and friends to experience the magic of the Parsippany High School Drama Club’s Spring 2024 musical!
