Knights of Columbus Presents: A Beatles Experience in Parsippany

PARSIPPANY  — Join the Knights of Columbus for an unforgettable evening with “Re-Live the Beatles Live Show,” one of the most acclaimed Beatles tribute bands. This ensemble is set to deliver a captivating performance in Parsippany.

Event Details:

  • Venue: All Saints Academy, 189 Baldwin Road, Parsippany.
  • Date: Saturday, October 28.
  • Timings: Doors open at 7:30 p.m., show starts at 8:00 p.m.

While many have heard or watched clips of the Beatles, few can claim to have experienced their live magic. Despite the Beatles’ brief nine-year span (1962-1969), their music continues to resonate.

Don’t miss out on a chance to immerse yourself in a show that fans rave is “just like watching the Beatles live!”

Tickets are limited and expected to sell fast.

  • Advance Tickets: $25.00
  • Seniors and Veterans: $20.00
  • At-the-door (if available): $30.00

To secure your tickets, contact Bill Adams at (201) 602-3621.

This one-night-only spectacle promises great entertainment, and proceeds support the Knights of Columbus’s Youth and Charity Funds, assisting those who need a helping hand. As the Beatles would say, “We can all get by with a little help from my friends.” This band guarantees a pitch-perfect night!

Reserve Your Spot Now! For any inquiries, reach out to Steve Roman at (973) 540-9889.

Morris County Sheriff’s Office Partners With NJRC

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon announced today a new partnership between the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the New Jersey Reentry Corporation (NJRC) to help inmates released from the Morris County Correctional Facility successfully re-enter and assimilate back into the community.

The criminal recidivism rate is at about 47 percent; however, NJRC has demonstrated success at reducing the number of re-offenders who graduate its program to 19 percent of rearrests and under 10 percent reincarcerations, according to former New Jersey Gov. James McGreevey, who leads the NJRC.

“This is all about not having this continuous cycle; it’s about correcting the trajectory,” said McGreevey during a press conference at the correctional facility.

Joining in the press conference were (l-r) Chief of Detectives Robert McNally of the Prosecutor’s Office, Correctional Captain Joseph Fucci, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Sheriff James Gannon, Warden Christopher Klein, Executive Director David Scott of the Market Street Mission, former Gov. James McGreevey, Rob Carter of NJRC and Alex Roth of NJRC.

Under the collaboration and partnership with the Sheriff’s Office, at no cost to the county, NJRC will provide critical services to link former offenders to healthcare and addiction treatment, legal services, employment, skills training, and a means to re-establish identification credentials as they leave the correctional facility. The service will supplement the success of re-entry programs already underway at the correctional facility.

The goals of the collaboration between the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections and NJRC include removing barriers to employment for people leaving incarceration or detainment, and reducing recidivism, which fosters safer communities while assisting the former inmates to find a path of sustainable living.

“The individuals who come into our care and custody at the Morris County Correctional Facility all have unique and different needs. We must be attentive to those needs.  Working with NJRC will help us bridge existing gaps that we often see become pitfalls when individuals are released from custody. I am extremely pleased to be able to afford these additional services through this partnership with the NJRC,” said Sheriff James Gannon.

The NJRC, with the social services staff at the correctional facility and the county’s Successful Transition and Re-Entry Program (STAR) program will identify inmates who need assistance and the type of assistance required so that all individuals can be provided professional services that best address their specific needs.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally were among a team of law enforcement officers and non-profit workers who also attended the press conference.

“I hope, down the road, people fully understand what everyone is trying to do here,” said Carroll.“Obviously, we care about what happens in the custodial end of this and what happens when the correctional system is done … We generate them back into the communities in a positive way. It’s a win for everybody.”

For a successful re-entry, ex-offenders need housing, food, medical care, clothing, substance abuse treatment, mental health care, employment, and education, according to research cited by the Sheriff’s Office. Re-entry programs that span all three phases of re-entry – preparation, service provision, and long-term support – are most successful. The STAR program helps inmates with all three of these phases.

“Morris County, the Sheriff’s Office, and all our members of law enforcement work hard every day to ensure our communities are safe, such that the quality of life of our residents and visitors remains one of the best in the nation. Supporting inmates being released from custody with these essential services can help improve outcomes with their re-entry and positively shape their influence in our communities,” said Morris County Commissioner Doug Cabana, the board’s liaison to law enforcement.

The NJRC is a non-profit agency with a social mission to remove all barriers to employment for citizens returning from jail or prison. It grew from a pilot program launched in Hudson County supported by the state in 2014 and has been spearheaded by McGreevey, who has expanded the program elsewhere in New Jersey.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting to Hold Meeting

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 19, 2023.

Regular Township Council Meetings will commence at 7:00 p.m. All meetings will be held on Tuesday evenings. Council meetings are held at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. Formal action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings.

Click here to download the agenda.

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 a meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request auxiliary aid.

Click here to download the 2023 agenda schedule.

Mayor and Council

Mayor James R. Barberio
Council President Loretta Gragnani
Council Vice-President Michael J. dePierro
Councilman Paul Carifi Jr.
Councilman Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – September 5, 2023

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting was held on Tuesday, September 5, 2023.

Regular Township Council Meetings will commence at 7:00 p.m. All meetings will be held on Tuesday evenings. Council meetings are held at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. Formal action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings.

Click here to download the agenda.

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 a meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request auxiliary aid.

Click here to download the 2023 agenda schedule.

Mayor and Council

Mayor James R. Barberio
Council President Loretta Gragnani
Council Vice-President Michael J. dePierro
Councilman Paul Carifi Jr.
Councilman Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella

New Jersey Celebrates Six $50,000 Powerball Winners; One Hails from Parsippany

PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, September 16, six lucky tickets from New Jersey matched four of the five white balls and the Power Ball in the Powerball drawing, each securing the $50,000 second-tier prize. One of these tickets was purchased at the 7-Eleven located at 959 Tabor Road in Parsippany.

The other winning tickets were distributed across the state:

  • Hudson County: Acquired from Lotto.Com at 111 Town Square Place, Jersey City.
  • Middlesex County: Bought at B & C Deli, 1000 Belmont Ave., South Plainfield.
  • Passaic County: Purchased at Frank Fine Wines & Food, 429-433 Belmont Ave., Haledon.
  • Passaic County: From Quick Stop, 1353 Ringwood Ave., Haskell.
  • Passaic County: From Nana Pena Grocery Deli Market, 276 Trenton Ave., Paterson.

The winning numbers from the Saturday draw were: 08, 11, 19, 24, and 46. The Red Power Ball was 05, and the Power Play was set at 2X. Across New Jersey, 57,910 players bagged prizes ranging from $4 to $200, amounting to an estimated total of $305,794. The Powerball jackpot now surges to a staggering $638,000,000. The next draw is slated for Monday, September 18, at 10:59 p.m.

Unity Bank Opens Doors in Parsippany-Troy Hills: Grand Opening Celebrated

PARSIPPANY — On Tuesday, September 12, Parsippany-Troy Hills warmly greeted Unity Bank’s newest branch at its Grand Opening and ribbon-cutting event.

Situated at 66 North Beverwyck Road in Lake Hiawatha, this establishment stands where Blue Foundry Bank once operated. This marks Unity Bank’s pioneering foray into Morris County.

Unity Bank marked a new milestone with the grand opening of its latest branch located at 66 North Beverwyck Road in Lake Hiawatha. The celebration showcased the bank’s commitment to expanding its services and deepening its connection with the community. Residents and businesses in Lake Hiawatha can now look forward to a more accessible banking experience with Unity Bank’s renowned customer-centric approach.

Distinguished attendees included Mayor James R. Barberio, Council President Loretta Gragnani, Council Vice President Michael J. DePierro, Councilman Justin Musella, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and other local figures such as Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank L Cahill, Dr. Bhagirath Maheta, Raj Dichpally, Nick Rafanello and Robert Peluso, CEO of Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Highlighting the ceremony, Unity Bank representatives graciously donated $500 each to notable local organizations: Morris County Crimestoppers, Lake Hiawatha Fire District 4, and the Parsippany P.B.A.

Unity Bank’s Senior Vice President, Daniel Sharabba, handed over a check to Mayor James Barberio. This generous donation, presented in a ceremony earlier this week, is earmarked for the Parsippany PBA. The bank’s contribution underscores its commitment to fostering local initiatives and supporting vital community organizations. Mayor Barberio expressed his gratitude, noting the significant impact such donations have in bolstering local efforts.

James A. Hughes, Unity Bank’s President & CEO, commented on the bank’s expansion, noting their consistent involvement in Morris County. He emphasized the relevance of branch-level services, especially for small business proprietors, regardless of the digital banking era’s growth.

Occupying a generous 3,864-square-foot space, the Lake Hiawatha branch is set to feature dedicated parking, along with drive-up banking and ATM amenities.

In his address, Frank Cahill, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman, presented DJ with an acknowledgment plaque, expressing gratitude for choosing Parsippany as Unity’s new home and wishing them flourishing success.

In a special ceremony, Frank Cahill, Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development, took center stage to present Dhaval ‘DJ’ Bhatt, Area Manager of Unity Bank, with a plaque marking Unity Bank’s entry to Parsippany. As a token of the community’s appreciation and a symbol of warm welcome, the plaque signifies the township’s enthusiasm for the bank’s presence. Mayor James Barberio witnessed this significant moment as Unity Bank further acknowledged its relationship with the Parsippany community.

In line with its expansion, Unity Bank has also inaugurated branches in Fort Lee, Bergen County, and Lakewood, Ocean County, the latter being its debut in that county. Currently, Unity Bank boasts assets worth approximately $2.5 billion, with deposits rounding up to $1.8 billion.

Unity Bank is a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Unity Bank’s Senior Vice President Daniel Sharabba presents a check to Morris County Sheriff James Gannon as a donation to Morris County Crimestoppers

Unity Bank’s Senior Vice President Daniel Sharabba presents a check Lake Hiawatha Volunteer Fire Department

Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 Celebrates Annual Members/Recruitment Picnic

PARSIPPANY  — Morris County’s Order Sons of Italy In America – Lodge 2561 recently hosted their eagerly awaited “2023 Annual Members/Recruitment Picnic” at Knoll Park in Lake Hiawatha on Sunday, September 17.

With ideal weather conditions setting the mood, around 100 guests reveled in an unforgettable day filled with genuine bonds and fellowship. The attendees were treated to an extensive spread of mouth-watering dishes, freshly prepared on-site by Brownstone Catering.

The Sons of Italy actively organizes numerous charitable and community-driven fundraisers annually, dedicating all proceeds directly to various charitable causes. This event stands out, serving as a special occasion for members, their loved ones, and potentially new faces to gather and commemorate.

Parsippany Hills Council Vice President Michael dePierro, Delores dePierro and Parsippany Hills Council President Loretta Gragnani

An enriching experience shared with both familiar and fresh faces alike. Kudos to the Sons of Italy for pulling off yet another memorable event!

For more information on Morris County’s Order Sons of Italy In America – Lodge 2561, click here.

Amidst the laughter, delicious food, and spirited conversations at the Sons of Italy picnic, Charlie Alfano stood out as a beacon of joy.
Brownstone Catering truly outdid themselves at the Sons of Italy gathering. As guests mingled and shared stories, they were drawn to the impressive spread that awaited them.

Morris County Schools to Receive $23 Million in State Funding for Critical Upgrades

MORRIS COUNTY – A significant financial windfall is headed towards Morris County schools, thanks to a new state-wide initiative. The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) and the New Jersey Schools Development Authority (SDA) have approved nearly $450 million in construction funding, of which Morris County schools are slated to receive approximately $23 million.

Governor Phil Murphy stated that the funding would invest in “hundreds of school projects” across New Jersey. The funds are designed to address various high-priority needs, such as HVAC systems, leaky roofs, and inefficient boilers. The NJDOE will administer the grants, determined by each school’s specific needs.

Morris County’s allocation comes primarily from the State’s Debt Defeasance and Prevention Fund. This strategy is set to save taxpayers approximately $350 million that would otherwise have been incurred through 30-year bonds at current interest rates.

Local districts including Dover Town, Florham Park, and Morris School District are among the beneficiaries. The grants represent at least 40% of eligible costs for these projects, addressing health and safety issues and other critical requirements.

“This funding is part of a state and local partnership that will invest in hundreds of school projects while saving a significant amount of taxpayer dollars,” said Governor Phil Murphy.

Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan, Acting Commissioner of Education, noted, “This funding will benefit countless students in hundreds of schools throughout New Jersey.”

Senate President Nicholas Scutari highlighted “Where we invest taxpayer money reflects our priorities and we will always put our kids first.”

The overall cost of these projects in Morris County exceeds $1 billion, including local contributions. This grant initiative not only improves local schools but also provides local tax relief.

The approved funds are a significant stride towards meeting the critical infrastructure needs of Morris County schools. It is a win-win situation that will benefit students, taxpayers, and educators alike by upgrading facilities and providing a better learning environment.

Liz Cheney to Headline Drew Forum at MPAC: A Deep Dive into Policy, Leadership, and Bipartisanship

MORRIS COUNTY — Liz Cheney is set to headline the inaugural Drew Forum event of the season at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, October 23, hosted at Morristown’s Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC).

Drew University’s recent president, Hilary L. Link, will guide the discussion.

Former U.S. Representative from Wyoming, Liz Cheney, is slated to delve deep into policy discussions, the essence of principled leadership, and prospects for bipartisanship.

In 2022, Cheney, in the company of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, was honored with the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library’s Profile in Courage Award. Cheney’s unwavering stand for democracy also earned her special recognition.

Together with her father, the former Vice President Dick Cheney, she penned “Exceptional: Why the World Needs a Powerful America.” Additionally, this December she’s set to unveil her new book, “Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning.”

This gathering is under the patronage of the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation.

For ticket information and more details, head to drew.edu/lizcheney. Tickets can be procured by phoning the MPAC box office at (973) 539-8008 or directly at 100 South Street, Morristown.

Department of Labor Intervention Results in Boston Market Employees Receiving $630,000 in Back Wages

MORRIS COUNTY— The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) has recovered over $630,000 in back wages for 314 Boston Market employees. The issue surfaced when Cathy Grimes, a manager in East Hanover, and her team went unpaid for two months. Despite this, many employees continued to work, hoping for state intervention. After Grimes contacted the NJDOL, more of unpaid employees started to speak up.

The Division of Wage and Hour Compliance at NJDOL led an investigation. This resulted in stop-work orders and the closure of 27 Boston Market locations. The investigation began after a complaint from a Hamilton Township-based employee in November. This triggered more complaints about unpaid wages at other locations.

The Department of Labor says it found multiple violations of workers’ rights, including more than $600,000 in back wages

The investigation led to the payment of back wages, allowing the Boston Market locations to reopen. Grimes thanked the NJDOL, stating that their involvement led to the owner paying the wages, which totaled around $15,000.

Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo pointed out that this case shows the importance of the department’s power to issue stop-work orders. He warned that non-payment of workers could lead to a shutdown of operations.

The findings were sent to the parent company, Boston Chicken of NJ, LLC, and to CEO Jignesh Pandya. The department may levy additional damages and fees. As a result, the NJDOL encourages workers to know their rights and directs them to MyWorkRights.nj.gov for more information.

At the time of publishing this article, the East Hanover Boston Market remains closed, although the stop work orders have been removed from the widows.