PARSIPPANY – Senator Joseph Pennacchio and Mayor James Barberio joined councilmembers and Community Options for a ribbon cutting at a new home supporting people with significant disabilities in Parsippany on Thursday, November 2.
“It was a wonderful ribbon cutting for the newest community home for Community Options. A terrific organization. Welcome to Parsippany,” said Senator Joseph Pennacchio.
Community Options is a leading national nonprofit that develops housing and employment support for 6,000 people with disabilities across 12 states. The organization operates over 150 homes in New Jersey and 650 across the country. The four-bedroom home is Community Options’ sixth home in Parsippany.
“I am happy to welcome another specialized home into our community that will foster and support the needs of those individuals with disabilities,” said Mayor James Barberio. “Someone once said that ‘inclusion is not bringing people into what already exists, it is making a new space, a better space for everyone.’ This house has witnessed new families move in and other families move away. While this may not be what we think of as a traditional family, it is a family nonetheless and one that will bring a new sense of enrichment to this neighborhood. Just as every house has its differences so has every person. Welcome to Parsippany and welcome home.”
Community Options partnered with the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills to develop the home through the local affordable housing trust fund. The ribbon cutting was also attended by Council President Loretta Gragnani, Council Vice President Michael dePierro, and Councilman Justin Musella.
“We are proud to partner with the Mayor and Council to develop this new home in Parsippany,” said Tracy Mendola, Community Options’ Regional State Director. “Our community homes help municipalities meet their affordable housing needs while providing a critical service to people with significant disabilities.”
PARSIPPANY — Many of us only think of mushrooms and fungi in terms of pizza toppings, eaten during a marathon viewing of The Last of Us (featuring an apocalyptic cordyceps outbreak.) The truth is, mycology is a fascinating field, and the parks, forests, and even backyards near us provide a great opportunity to take up a new hobby and meet some fascinating people.
Naturalists Dorothy Smullen and Lyla Meader, both active with the New Jersey Mycological Association (NJMA), established this on a recent guided tour in Parsippany. The “Mushroom Walk” event, held at Wildlife Preserves’ Troy Meadows Preserve, offered a crash course in mycology and a field outing or “foray” for a dozen lucky visitors who pre-registered for this limited admission event.
A briefing before Mushroom Walk at Troy Meadows Photo Credit: Luca Fariello
Some of the species encountered at the most recent event included Hen of the Woods, Bleeding Mycena, and Turkey Tail.
As expected, this foray was more productive than last year’s outing in the same area, thanks to the higher levels of precipitation during summer 2023, in comparison with 2022’s drought conditions.
Dorothy Smullen, carrying her wicker basket, knife, and magnifying loupe, is a retired high school science teacher whose love of mycology is contagious. Smullen, who hails from Brooklyn [where she obtained her Masters in biology] is a sought-after speaker on many aspects of the natural world, including botany, insects, birds, and frogs, and – – of course – – fungi. She became interested in the field 50 years ago, after moving from the city to a home near the Passaic River where she was amazed to see so many mushrooms on the riverbank after a storm. Her science background made her curious to identify these organisms using what was then a newly published field guide. She confirmed the identification of her find by checking with a Rutgers professor and learned about the NJMA, joining in 1975. Among many other prestigious affiliations in the NJ natural world, Dorothy Smullen also serves as past President of the NJMA.
Lyla Meader, NJMA’s current Secretary, has been interested in the natural world since she began exploring the fields and creeks of Schenectady County, NY, as a child. She learned from her mother to forage seeds, grapes, and berries but mushrooms – – other than the giant puffballs – – were off-limits. Decades later, Meader happened to attend a mushroom walk led by Dorothy Smullen and was taken with the beauty and many uses of mushrooms. A chance encounter led Meader to discover and photograph an enormous “Hen of the Woods” on the base of a tree at her own home, and she was hooked. She took this as a sign to join the NJMA and has enjoyed finding and photographing mushrooms ever since, sharing her discoveries and interest with “anyone who will listen,” she says cheekily. Meader also finds herself drawn to the interesting, intelligent, and friendly people who attend meetings and forays. This Mushroom Walk event at Troy Meadows attracted a range of enthusiastic participants who ranged from budding naturalists to degreed scientists, all of whom were anxious to share and discuss the day’s discoveries.
Visitors search for mushrooms at Troy Meadows
Photo Credit: Len Fariello
Wicker baskets are typically used for specimen collection during a mushroom foray, to prevent crushing and smothering the delicate fungus. The magnifying loupe, such as the ones Smullen and Meader carry, allows minuscule detail to be observed, such as the absence or presence of microscopic pores, for correct identification. When collecting mushrooms to ID, it can be helpful to view the entire structure including the point of connection to the bark or log where it is found, so the field knife (used carefully) may be helpful to free the specimen without damage.
The foray included a display of Smullen’s mushroom artifacts, including artwork, mushroom paper, and even a handbag made entirely of mushroom leather. Fungi have roles in the environment including the breakdown of organic material and as a food source for various animals, but their ability to facilitate communication between plant organisms is only recently becoming better understood, as symbiotic fungi create an underground network that allows some plants and trees to distribute resources and alert others to environmental threats.
To learn more about the New Jersey Mycological Association or to join as a member, visit their website at njmyco.org. To receive advance notice about events in Parsippany at Troy Meadows, visit wildlifepreserves.org and scroll down to Join Our Email List. Most Wildlife Preserve events are low-cost or free of charge, and many events are open to children. Troy Meadows is open to the public during daylight hours. For points of entry and visitor regulations visit wildlifepreserves.org.
PARSIPPANY — Mayor James Barberio of Parsippany-Troy Hills honored Ed Hansberry with a “Certificate of Achievement” in recognition of his remarkable 55 years in business.
The Parsippany Deli, under Ed’s stewardship, has become a cornerstone of the community, celebrated for its exceptional Irish foods and deli offerings.
The certificate not only acknowledges Ed Hansberry’s longevity in business but also commends his role as an outstanding community figure, offering praise for his significant contributions to the township of Parsippany.
Mayor James Barberio of Parsippany-Troy Hills honored Ed Hansberry with a “Certificate of Achievement” in recognition of his remarkable 55 years in business
PARSIPPANY — President Carol Tiesi of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany graciously handed over the food gathered on Sunday, October 29th at ShopRite to Michele Picone, the Director of Health and Human Services for Parsippany-Troy Hills Township.
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany not only gathered 15 full shopping carts of food but also collected hundreds of dollars in ShopRite gift cards and $355.00 in cash to support the Parsippany Food Pantry.
Students from the Key Clubs of Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School to conduct the food collection
In a joint community effort, members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, including Carol Teisi, Doreen Brennan, Judi Chase, Susan Slaughter, and Marie Abahoonie, joined forces with 19 students from the Key Clubs of Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School to conduct the food collection.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany members, including Doreen Brennan and President Carol Tiesi, receive consistent support from Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, who is known for his ongoing endorsement of the Kiwanis Club’s community service initiatives.
Their collaborative endeavor not only symbolized the spirit of service and camaraderie but also underscored the impact that organizations and youth can make when they come together for a common cause. The successful food drive is a testament to their dedication and the collective commitment of the local clubs to address food insecurity in their community.
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Achieves Remarkable Feat with Donation of 15 Full Shopping Carts to Local Food PantryDonations Fill Jeep Grand Cherokee and Other Vehicles for Delivery to Parsippany Food Pantry by Local Club
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany extends heartfelt gratitude to ShopRite of Parsippany for providing a space for their food collection efforts. Marking their calendar for continued community support, the club is set to host another food collection event on Sunday, December 3 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Sheriff James Gannon, and Montville Police Chief Andrew Caggiano confirmed that Luis Martinez, 35, formerly of Newark, has been sentenced to 11 years in New Jersey State Prison for the theft and possession of numerous firearms.
On January 6, 2023, Martinez and others burglarized the FSS Armory store in the Pine Brook section of Montville and stole approximately 20 guns from the business. Martinez was identified as a suspect through a combination of law enforcement efforts, which included electronic surveillance, DNA, and other technological capabilities.
During Martinez’s guilty plea on October 13, presided over by the Honorable Claudia Jones, J.S.C., Martinez admitted to arriving at FSS Armory in a stolen motor vehicle during the early morning hours of January 6. Martinez admitted that he and others broke into the gun store, stole the guns, and then loaded the guns into the trunk of the stolen vehicle and fled the area.
On October 27, the Honorable Claudia Jones, J.S.C., sentenced Martinez to 11 years in prison, 5 1/2 years of which he must serve before becoming eligible for parole.
Senior Assistant Prosecutor Erin Callahan represented the State at sentencing.
On September 14, Leila Acevedo was identified and charged as part of the investigation. Acevedo was charged with conspiracy, burglary, and gun possession charges. The investigation remains ongoing to identify three other co-conspirators who were present but who have yet to be identified.
Prosecutor Carroll thanks the tireless efforts of law enforcement, which continues to this day, and specifically acknowledges the efforts of Montville Detective Keith Donnelly, detectives from the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office’s Intelligence Unit, special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office’s Crime Scene Investigation Unit who all contributed to the successful investigation and prosecution of this incident.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “I am joined by Chief McNally, Chief Caggiano, and Sheriff Gannon in stating that the burglary of a firearms store is a priority for all law enforcement as preventing firearms from falling into the hands of criminals is an absolute necessity for protecting our citizens from the later use of stolen deadly weapons to commit other crimes. This investigation was tenaciously pursued by the involved Local, County, and Federal law enforcement, and we will continue our coordinated efforts to locate all of the involved subjects.”
MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM), in collaboration with local, state and federal organizations, has announced two events on campus this month to celebrate veterans.
The first, a Veterans Resource Event, is scheduled for Wednesday, November 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and includes 20 organizations providing services and programs available for veterans.
This informal, educational opportunity provides a venue for discussion with Atlantic Health, Community Hope, the Department of Aging, the Mental Health Association, Morris County Veterans Services Office, New Jersey Department of Labor & Work Force Development, New Jersey Department of Military Affairs, New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program, Welcome Vets of New Jersey and many more.
A Program in Tribute to our Veterans will be held on Thursday, November 9, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., to honor their veterans’ service.
This presentation features a historical perspective given by Geroge A. Roth, FC, SO-AS/CS/IS, FSO-AS/CS/DV/IS/NS/PB/PE Division 15, Flotilla 10, 5NR U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and keynote speaker Lt. Col. Alexander D. Burgos, Commander, U.S. Army Garrison Picatinny Arsenal, plus a video montage and musical tributes to all military branches by the CCM Chamber Choir
The Veterans Resource Event on November 8 will be held in the Student Community Center, Davidson Rooms, and the Program in Tribute to our Veterans on November 9 will be held in Dragonetti Auditorium, on CCM’s campus at 214 Center Grove Road, in Randolph Township. Parking is in Lot #6.
Pre-registration is not required. For more information, call (973) 328-5054 or email cmcardle@ccm.edu.
CCM currently offers free training for veterans and their families in advanced manufacturing. To learn more about the college’s non-credit and for-credit, certificate and associate degree programs, along with funding opportunities for veterans and their families click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Office of Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming and Norwescap held the 2023 Morris County Seniors and Persons with Disabilities Art Show and Awards Ceremony earlier this week at the Marion E. Sally Building on Clyde Potts Drive in Morristown, showcasing artwork from many local talents.
The 16th annual event, and the first one in person since the pandemic, received 21 submissions representing a vast array of creativity from within five different art categories: Acrylic Painting, Photography, Mixed Media, Watercolor, and Drawing.
In each category, winners selected for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards were presented satin ribbons and generous gift bundles of art supplies. Everyone who participated received public acknowledgment with a certificate of recognition for their artwork.
“During October, the County Commissioners observed and celebrated Arts & Humanities Month and National Disability Employment Awareness Month by publicly presenting framed proclamations to several local organizations. This art show was another way to continue these community celebrations as we recognize the contributions and talents of our senior and special needs neighbors,” said Morris County Commissioner Deb Smith.
The judges for the event were Dr. Edward Ramirez, Chief Program Officer of Norwescap, Rochelle Ostenfeld, Norwescap’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Manager, and Xavier Powell, owner of operations and curation for Gallery X in West Palm Beach, Florida.
During the Awards Ceremony, Mark Valli, CEO of Norwescap, took the stage to express his gratitude and appreciation, emphasizing the importance of displaying the “untapped talent of Morris County.” He highlighted Norwescap’s extensive services, which include early childhood programs, employment services, nutrition and food security initiatives, housing and community development, and volunteer and civic engagement programs, such as the Norwescap RSVP program.
“We’re all born artists. We’re all born to express ourselves. We all have it in us, and art is a way to draw that out… There is a ton of talent in our senior population and those with disabilities. Art is a way to bring us together,” said Valli.
“We at Norwescap hope that with today’s program, we might be reaching individuals that we are serving in our other programs in a way that is expressive, a way that is beautiful and that builds strong community,” he added. “That is why art is important. That is why Norwescap is doing this work with the county, and we are grateful to be a part of this community.”
The winners in each category included:
In Acrylic Painting, Ismael Villavvubla won 1st place for his piece entitled “Campout.” Holly Hunter came in 2nd place for “Reflections Past” and Elizabeth Bain earned 3rd place for “Isolation.”
In Photography, Tom Cassidy was the 1st place winner for “Sole Pole with Clouds,” Patricia Anderson came in 2nd place for “Ocean Breeze” and Wilma S. Pickell in 3rd place for “Low Tide Cape Cod.”
In the Mixed Media category, 1st place went to Barbra Elliot for “Butterflies,” 2nd place to Ian Crowe for “Ladybugs in Flowers Spring,” and 3rd place to J.R. Schomp for “Sea Life.”
In Watercolor, MaryAnn Tunstead won 1st place with her artwork titled “A River Runs Through It.”
In the Drawing category, Dee DeJulio claimed 1st place for her piece, “Best Buddies.”
After the awards ceremony, everyone gathered for a luncheon provided by The Fruited Plain, a local caterer in Parsippany-Troy Hills.
The event was a true celebration of art, community, and the incredible talent of Morris County’s seniors and individuals with disabilities. Each year, the County Commissioners approve roughly $5,000 through a grant in aid to fund the art program.
Morris County congratulates all the participants and thanks the dedicated team from Norwescap who worked behind the scenes tirelessly to make this event a reality.
MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) announced the following facilities closures for next week’s state holidays:
Tuesday, November 7: All NJMVC facilities, including agencies, road test sites, and inspection stations, will be closed.
Friday, November 10: All NJMVC facilities, including agencies, road test sites, and inspection stations, will be closed.
Saturday, November 11: Inspection stations only will be closed. Regular Saturday operations will be in effect at all other NJMVC facilities.
For the remainder of the week, regular operations will be in effect at all NJMVC facilities.
Meanwhile, NJMVC.gov remains open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and should always be the first stop for New Jerseyans seeking motor vehicle services.
On the Commission’s website, customers can access more than 25 online services, book appointments for in-person services, find answers to common customer questions, and more.
While most customers can complete their motor vehicle business online in New Jersey, nearly all in-person services at NJMVC agencies require an appointment that must be scheduled at NJMVC.gov.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County invites the public to attend two Veterans Day ceremonies next week to honor and celebrate 28 local veterans who will receive Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals.
“>The first ceremony will take place on Wednesday, November 8, at the Board of County Commissioners Public Meeting at 7:00 p.m. on the fifth floor of the Administration and Records Building located at 10 Court Street, Morristown. Seventeen veterans from around the county will be honored and presented with Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals. Please arrive as early as 6:30 p.m. to join or tune in to our live stream through a link that will be shared on the Morris County Government Facebook page and on the county’s website. (Click here)
On Thursday, November 9, another 11 veterans from around the county will be honored and presented with Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals at 1:00 p.m. at the Morris County Office of Veterans Services located at 540 West Hanover Ave. in Morris Township. The event will also include a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the opening of a new veterans services wing following a renovation and office expansion that took place over the summer.
Parking is available across West Hanover Avenue at the Morris County 9/11 Memorial. Only veterans involved in the medal service will be able to park at the Veteran Services Office at 540 West Hanover Avenue.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany resident Bernard Clarkin was one of the newest members to join the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. Club member Frank Cahill sponsored Bernie into the club.
Club 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 our community than to welcome a new member to our club? Today we’re very pleased to welcome Bernie to our club. We welcome Bernie to our global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.
President Carol Tiesi extended a warm welcome to Bernard “Bernie” Clarkin as one of the newest members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. Expressing the club’s joy and commitment, President Tiesi emphasized the importance of each member and the positive impact they bring to the community. Bernie’s vast experience and dedication to the Parsippany community are certainly valuable assets to the club, and his induction promises to further the club’s mission of service and community improvement.
Bernie has an impressive background! He brings a wealth of financial expertise and knowledge to the table, given his experience as a Certified Public Accountant and former Chief Financial Officer. His educational background from renowned institutions like Georgetown University and Fairleigh Dickinson University further attests to his credentials. Additionally, his long-standing residency in Parsippany and his involvement with the Knoll Advisory Committee demonstrate his commitment to the community.
Sponsor Frank Cahill honored Bernard “Bernie” Clarkin by placing the Kiwanis pin on him. This act signifies Bernie’s official induction into the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany and represents the unity, service, and commitment embodied by the club’s members. With this pinning ceremony, Bernie is warmly welcomed into the Kiwanis family, and the club celebrates the addition of another dedicated member to its ranks.
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.
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.
