PHS Graduate Bethany Brodock Earns Spot on Thiel College Dean’s List

PARSIPPANY — Bethany Brodock, a graduate of Parsippany High School’s Class of 2020, has achieved an impressive academic milestone by being named among the 404 students on Thiel College’s Dean’s List for the fall 2023 semester.

To earn a place on the Dean’s List at Thiel College, a student must maintain a high academic standard, attaining a grade point average (GPA) of 3.4 or higher on a 4.0 scale, all while being enrolled full-time.

Bethany Brodock, from Lake Hiawatha, is pursuing her studies in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Thiel College. She was an active member of the senior class during the past fall semester, contributing to the vibrant academic community at the college.

Thiel College, situated in Greenville, Pennsylvania, stands as an independent institution founded in the Lutheran tradition. Offering a diverse array of academic opportunities, the college provides 60 majors and minors supports 24 varsity sports, and maintains an impressive 11:1 student-faculty ratio.

Additionally, Thiel College is proud to house master’s degree programs in business administration, physician assistant studies, and speech-language pathology. These master’s programs offer innovative and expedited five-year pathways, allowing students to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years.

The college’s unwavering commitment to education is exemplified by its dedicated faculty, dynamic research initiatives, and extensive internship opportunities, which together yield exceptional outcomes for graduate school placements and job opportunities. Thiel College, coeducational from its inception, upholds a tradition of combining time-honored values with innovative approaches as it pays tribute to its history while embracing the future.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2024. Click here to read.

Unity Bank’s Generous Contribution Supports Parsippany Food Pantry

PARSIPPANY — Unity Bank recently demonstrated its commitment to the local community by making a generous donation to the Parsippany Food Pantry. In a heartwarming moment captured in a photo, Dhaval (DJ) Bhatt, Area Manager of Unity Bank, and Carolina Alvarez, Operations Manager, were joined by Mayor James Barberio as they contributed to this important cause.

The Parsippany Emergency Food Pantry, a lifeline for residents facing food insecurity, is conveniently located at 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha.

This vital resource, known as the Parsippany Food Pantry, welcomes Parsippany residents in need and operates from the Parsippany Community Center. The Food Pantry extends a helping hand to those in the community every week, providing them with essential groceries. To qualify for assistance, residents can simply complete a brief application at the Health Department and present proof of residency. For any inquiries or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact them at (973) 263-7160.

Unity Bank, located at 66 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha, stands as a community-oriented commercial bank, offering a wide range of account options along with a comprehensive suite of business products and online services. Their commitment to local causes, as evidenced by their recent donation to the Parsippany Food Pantry, reflects their dedication to making a positive impact within the communities they serve.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2024. Click here to read.

Protect the Environment: Morris County’s Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Events Return in 2024

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority (MCMUA) has scheduled four Household Hazardous Waste Disposal events in Morris County, New Jersey. The event dates are as follows:

  1. Saturday, May 11, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, at 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany.
  2. Saturday, June 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, at 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany.
  3. Saturday, September 14, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy at 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany.
  4. Saturday, October 26, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy at 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany.

These events offer Morris County residents the opportunity to safely dispose of household hazardous materials they no longer need. Please note that businesses are not permitted to participate in these disposal events.

It’s important to be aware that electronic devices (e-waste) will no longer be accepted at MCMUA’s one-day household hazardous waste events. Residents are encouraged to contact (973) 829-8006 for information and to explore alternative recycling options.

Acceptable materials for disposal include:

  • Aerosol cans
  • Asbestos
  • Automotive fluids
  • Driveway sealant and roofing tar
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Gasoline, kerosene, and diesel fuel
  • Household cleaning products
  • Lead acid batteries
  • Button cell batteries
  • Lithium-ion batteries
  • Rechargeable batteries
  • Mercury-containing bulbs and devices
  • Muriatic acid
  • Oil-based paints, stains, lacquers, and varnishes
  • Paint thinners
  • Paint removers and solvents
  • Pesticides
  • Herbicides
  • Fertilizers
  • Photo chemicals
  • Pool chemicals
  • Propane tanks weighing 20 pounds or less

Items that cannot be accepted include:

  • Alkaline and carbon zinc batteries
  • Business waste
  • Compressed gas cylinders
  • Containers larger than 5 gallons
  • Empty containers
  • Explosives
  • Hazardous waste generated outside of Morris County
  • Highly reactive and unstable materials
  • Medical waste
  • Radioactive materials
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Unknown or unlabeled materials
  • Used consumer electronics
  • Water-based paint and latex paint

For additional information or inquiries, please call (973) 829-8006 or visit the MCMUA website.

CCM President Anthony J. Iacono Named an Influencer in Higher Education

MORRIS COUNTY — Antony J. Iacono, President of County College of Morris (CCM), has consistently earned recognition as a prominent figure in higher education according to ROI-NJ, a business publication in the state. Iacono has been consistently featured on ROI-NJ’s Influencers: Power List 2024 – Higher Education for the past five years, standing alongside esteemed colleagues in higher education. This year, he was among only three community college presidents to earn this distinction. ROI-NJ’s ranking specifically lauded Iacono for his pivotal role in the recently announced plans for a $30 million, 70,000-square-foot center dedicated to healthcare education. This facility will enable CCM to expand its healthcare programs to address the increasing medical demands within Morris County.

ROI-NJ has previously acknowledged Iacono for his exceptional achievements, extending beyond his inclusion in the Influencers Power List – Higher Education. President Iacono has received recognition in various categories from the publication, including Higher Education Top 25 Most Influential Presidents (2022), Influencers: Manufacturing (2022), and Influencers Higher Education Community Colleges (2021).

Iacono expressed his gratitude, saying, “It is a true honor to be recognized by ROI-NJ as a distinguished leader in higher education within the state. To be featured on a list alongside exceptionally talented and respected individuals, all of whom have made significant contributions to student success, is a humbling experience. At CCM, we take great pride in the community partnerships we continually cultivate, enabling us to fulfill our mission of empowering individuals to achieve their aspirations.”

Under Iacono’s leadership, CCM has garnered additional accolades, including being ranked as the Best Community College in New Jersey by Best Accredited Colleges. Intelligent Magazine has also included the college in its list of the Top 5 Best Community Colleges in the state, as well as the Best for Transfer Students in the state. Moreover, CCM received the Good Neighbor Award from New Jersey Business Magazine for its Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Center, solidifying its status as a leader in preparing students for successful careers.

CCM offers an array of programs, boasting more than 100 options, including associate degree programs and a wide selection of industry-recognized certificate and workforce development programs. The college’s Center for Workforce Development plays a crucial role in supplying a highly educated and skilled workforce for regional employment while providing customized training for individuals and local businesses. For additional information about the college, click here.

NJ DOT Removes Controversial No U-Turn Sign on Route 46 East

PARSIPPANY – In November, the NJ Department of Transportation made a controversial move by installing a No U-Turn sign at the intersection of Route 46 East and Beverwyck Road. This decision was attributed to preparations for upcoming construction in the area.

The installation raised questions and concerns, particularly at a council meeting where former Council Vice President Michael dePierro expressed surprise about the sign’s placement. He sought clarification from Parsippany Business Administrator Jamie Cryan regarding whether the township had been informed about the new sign and whether a council ordinance was required for its installation.

On December 15, Parsippany Focus reached out to Business Administrator Jamie Cryan via email, inquiring about updates regarding the No U-Turn sign. The email highlighted concerns from local businesses affected by the sign, particularly Chick-fil-A, set to open in the second quarter of 2024. The sign was expected to have a significant impact, potentially diverting customers through nearby neighborhoods, and raising further concerns. Regrettably, there was no response received to these inquiries.

Local businesses, including Bank of America, Eccola, and Patel Brothers, experienced substantial disruptions due to the sign. Customers were forced to navigate down to the Holiday Inn to make a U-turn at the traffic signal before returning to Route 46 West to access these establishments.

Despite the controversies, Parsippany Focus noted a significant number of motorists blatantly ignoring the No U-Turn sign.

In a recent development, the NJ Department of Transportation has decided to remove the contentious sign, bringing an end to the ongoing dispute.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment – January 24, 2024

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment will be meeting on January 24, 2024.

Click here to download the agenda.

Click here to download the 2024 Meeting Schedule.

2024 Members & Term End Dates

• Davey WillansMember12/31/24
• Sridath B. ReddyMember12/31/26
• Chris MazarellaMember12/31/27
• Dave KaplanMember12/31/27
• Scott JoskowitzMember12/31/25
• Robert IracaneMember12/31/26
• Bernard J. BerkowitzMember12/31/24
• Loretta GragnaniAlt. No. 112/31/25
• Santosh PeddiAlt. No. 212/31/25
• John Chadwick, Planner, John T. Chadwick IV P.P.
• Chas Holloway, Engineer, GPI
• William Johnson, Esq. Johnson and Johnson
• Nora O. Jolie, Board Secretary

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.

A New Era in Wellness: Grand Opening of a Revolutionary Medical Spa

PARSIPPANY — Residents of Morris County are set to experience a new dimension of wellness and beauty as a state-of-the-art medical spa, Vital Aesthetics opens its doors in the heart of Parsippany. This innovative facility combines the tranquility of a spa with advanced medical technology to offer a unique array of services including medical spa treatments, weight loss management, specialized dermatology, and IV treatments.

The grand opening held on Saturday, January 13 unveiled a modern sanctuary dedicated to personal well-being. The facility, equipped with the latest advancements in medical aesthetics, focuses on providing individualized care tailored to each client’s specific needs.

Notable figures joining the ribbon-cutting ceremony included Mayor James Barberio, Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen, Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilman Justin Musella, Councilman Matt Grath (who also serves as the liaison to Parsippany Economic Development), Parsippany Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, and members of the Economic Development team Raj Dichpally, and Robert Peluso. Additionally, the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce was represented by board members Nicolas Limanov and Ildiko Peluso.

“This is a very unique service being offered here at Vital Aesthetics,” said the Mayor. “I wish them much success, and welcome them to the Parsippany community!”

Frank Cahill, Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development, extended a warm welcome to Vital Aesthetics

Frank Cahill, Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development, extended a warm welcome to Vital Aesthetics in Parsippany. He also had the honor of presenting the owner, Asad Noor, with a plaque as a token of appreciation for choosing Parsippany and expressed well wishes for their success within our community.

This event marks not just the opening of a new business, but the beginning of a new chapter in health and wellness for the people of Parsippany.

Unrivaled Medical Spa Services: Embracing the fusion of luxury and clinical expertise, the spa offers an extensive range of treatments. From rejuvenating facials to advanced skincare therapies, clients can indulge in services designed to enhance natural beauty and promote relaxation.

A New Era in Wellness: Grand Opening of a Revolutionary Medical Spa Understanding the challenges of weight loss, the spa introduces a comprehensive program combining nutritional counseling, fitness recommendations, and medical interventions. This personalized approach aims to empower clients in their journey towards a healthier lifestyle.

Specialized Dermatology: With a team of experienced dermatologists, the spa addresses various skin concerns. Utilizing cutting-edge techniques, they provide treatments for acne, aging, sun damage, and more, ensuring each client’s skin receives the utmost care.

Revitalizing IV Treatments: To boost overall health and vitality, the spa offers customized IV therapy. These treatments are designed to hydrate, replenish nutrients, and restore energy levels, making them perfect for those with a busy lifestyle.

“We are thrilled to bring our vision of a comprehensive medical spa to Parsippany,” says Usman Haider, founder of the spa. “Our goal is to provide a sanctuary where science and serenity meet, offering cutting-edge treatments that cater to both aesthetic and health needs.”

This event marks not just the opening of a new business, but the beginning of a new chapter in health and wellness for the people of Parsippany.

For more information call (973) 970-1895. Opened Monday-Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Vital Aesthetics is located at 1116 Route 46 West, just past Eccola Restaurant.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2024. Click here to read.

Allendale-based Doherty acquires 21 Applebee’s locations

PARSIPPANY — Doherty Enterprises Inc. is expanding its restaurant holdings by acquiring 21 Applebee’s locations in New York City. As one of the largest franchisees of the casual dining chain in the United States, this move solidifies its position even further. This expansion comes as a result of a deal with Apple-Metro Inc., which previously had the rights to operate Applebee’s restaurants in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island.

Doherty has been an Applebee’s franchisee since 1993 and already managed 104 of the brand’s restaurants in New Jersey, New York, Florida, and Georgia. In addition to Applebee’s, Doherty’s restaurant portfolio comprises over 160 establishments in New Jersey, New York, Florida, and Georgia, including brands like Panera Bread and Chevys Fresh Mex, as well as its own concepts: The Shannon Rose Irish Pub and Sputino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas.

This acquisition has propelled Doherty to the 25th position in the Top 200 Franchisees by Restaurant Finance Monitor rankings. The family-owned business, established 39 years ago, is also recognized as one of the largest food service revenue companies in the United States by Nation’s Restaurant News. Furthermore, it ranks No. 23 on the 2023 NJBIZ Top 250 Privately Owned Companies list, with a revenue of $462.32 million.

Ed Doherty, the chairman and chief executive officer of Doherty Enterprises, described this acquisition as a pivotal moment for their company, aligning with their strategic vision for growth and innovation in the restaurant franchise industry.

Doherty Enterprises plans to offer jobs to the employees currently working at the acquired Applebee locations, ensuring a seamless transition for guests while retaining the expertise and dedication of the existing team members. Ed Doherty expressed excitement about welcoming the Apple Metro team into the Doherty family, acknowledging that their expertise and commitment will further enhance the company’s position in the industry.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that Doherty owns Applebee’s in Parsippany, located at 1057 Route 46, Troy Hills Shopping Center.

Parsippany Community Rallies to Support Family After Devastating House Fire

PARSIPPANY — A house fire occurred on Stafford Terrace at around 4:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 20. Thankfully, the occupants of the home, Mary and Mike Sheehan were present at the time and managed to evacuate safely, including their loyal dog, Larry. As the family copes with the aftermath of this devastating fire, they are currently residing in a local hotel.

In a heartwarming display of support, neighbors have taken the initiative to establish a GoFundMe account to assist the family with their immediate expenses during this challenging period.

If you would like to contribute and help this family in need, please click here to donate. Your generosity will go a long way in helping them during this difficult time.

Mary and Mike Sheehan have been the heart and soul of our community, operating a family business and generously giving back to those around them. Now, it is our collective responsibility to stand united and assist them in rebuilding their lives.

Parsippany’s Free Transit System is Making Schedule Changes

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is introducing schedule changes to enhance its free transit system.

The updated schedule will become effective on Monday, January 29, and includes the addition of seventeen new stops. Notable changes include both Routes 1 and 2 now serving the main Post Office, the inclusion of Redstone Gardens apartments at 5 Redstone Drive on Route 1, and the addition of Barnes and Noble to Route 2. Route 1 now boasts an expanded number of stops along Lake Shore Drive, while Route 2 has increased its stops along Kingston Road.

It’s important to note that this transit system is free and accessible to all Parsippany residents. If you have any inquiries or require further information, please do not hesitate to call (973) 263-7352.

For a detailed view of the new schedule, click here.