PARSIPPANY — The Mount Tabor Library is set to officially re-open its doors to the public on Tuesday, August 8, marking the end of a period of discussion and negotiation between the library community and Township officials.
A new lease agreement, recently signed by the Township, has paved the way for the reopening, bringing joy to local readers and community members.
Operating five days a week, the library’s schedule will be as follows:
Tuesdays: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Wednesdays: 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Thursdays: 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Fridays: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
You can also find extra copies of Parsippany Focus Magazine at the Mt. Tabor Library.
The re-opening of the Mount Tabor Library stands as a testament to the value of community collaboration and the vital role that libraries play in fostering education, connection, and growth. Whether you are an avid reader, a student, or simply looking to explore, the Mount Tabor Library’s doors are open once again for you to discover and enjoy.
MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy has announced the official New Jersey State Funeral and Memorial Service for the late Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver. The service will take place at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark on Saturday, August 12, and the public is warmly invited to attend.
In a solemn tribute, Oliver will lie in state in the Rotunda of the State Capital on Thursday, August 10, and at the Essex County Courthouse on Friday, August 11. A full honor guard will accompany her during these times, as announced by Murphy.
“Together, we will honor and celebrate her remarkable contributions to the state she loved,” Murphy stated, reflecting on Oliver’s dedication to her community and the people of New Jersey.
In further tribute, Governor Murphy has ordered that both the American and New Jersey flags be flown at half-mast for the next month in memory of Oliver.
Born and raised in Newark, and later residing in East Orange, Oliver left a significant mark on New Jersey’s political landscape. Before serving as Garden State’s second lieutenant governor, she made history as the first Black woman to serve as Speaker of the General Assembly.
A statement from Oliver’s family captured the sentiments of many: “[Sheila] was not only a distinguished public servant but also our cherished daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and hero. Sheila Y. Oliver leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service, and inspiration. We will remember her commitment to the people of New Jersey and her tireless efforts to uplift the community.”
Oliver’s funeral and lying in state provide an opportunity for the public to pay respects and reflect on the life of a woman who dedicated herself to public service, breaking barriers, and inspiring others. Her legacy is sure to be remembered and cherished by those she touched through her years of service.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Clerk, Ann Grossi, Esq., has revealed plans for a Passport Outreach Event scheduled for Tuesday, October 17. The event will be held from 9 am to 2:00 p.m. at the Rockaway Township Municipal Building, located at 65 Mount Hope Road.
If you plan to attend, make sure to have the following items with you:
Evidence of Citizenship: This could be a passport or a certified birth certificate.
Photograph: One 2×2 color photo with a white or light background.
Identification: A valid driver’s license.
Payment Information:
Please note that cash will not be accepted at the event. You may pay using a personal check, bank check, or money order.
Fees:
Adults (16 and older): $130 check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State, plus a $35 check or money order payable to the Morris County Clerk.
Children (15 and under): $100 check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State, plus a $35 check or money order payable to the Morris County Clerk.
Expedited Fee: If you need expedited processing, there is a $60 fee per application, plus $19.53 for a 1-2 day return delivery service.
Please allow approximately 15 minutes to fill out the application and an additional 15 minutes for it to be processed.
For any more information, you can visit the clerk’s website by clicking here or contact them by phone at (973) 285-6161. Make sure to take advantage of this opportunity if you need passport services!
MORRIS COUNTY — Both chambers of lawmakers have unanimously approved StayNJ, a program designed to significantly reduce property tax bills for seniors in New Jersey. However, there are lingering doubts about the program’s survival until the awards start being distributed in 2026.
StayNJ is targeted at New Jersey homeowners aged 65 and above, offering them tax credits that could cover up to half of their property tax bills, with a cap of $6,500. This applies as long as the homeowner’s annual income does not exceed $500,000.
Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin (D-Middlesex), the mind behind the program, stated, “We have heard from seniors across the state on this issue. We know what a difference this will make for families making difficult decisions. We owe it to our seniors and to their families to ease those burdens.” Governor Phil Murphy put his signature on the bill Friday evening.
The cap on the awards will be adjusted in line with property tax bills, and the program’s estimated cost stands at $1.3 billion when payouts begin in the first quarter of 2026.
However, some advocates and Republican officials have raised concerns about whether these awards will ever be realized. Specific provisions in the bill halt payments if the state fails to meet its commitments regarding school aid, pension payments, or two tax deduction programs designed for seniors and military veterans. Moreover, StayNJ payments will be obstructed if the state is unable to make them while maintaining a surplus equivalent to 12% of annual spending.
Certain Republicans argue that these conditions, combined with a recent dip in New Jersey’s revenue, virtually ensure that StayNJ payments will never be made. Others criticize the $500,000 income cap, suggesting that it directs aid toward residents who don’t require assistance with property taxes.
Assemblyman Brian Bergen (R-Morris) commented, “We have seniors in the state of New Jersey today, who under the provisions of this bill can make $450,000 a year and still get $6,500 back in property tax relief. That $6,500 doesn’t come from a phantom fund. It comes from the money that we take from all the other taxpayers in the state of New Jersey.”
Bergen and Assemblyman Kevin Rooney (R-Bergen) were the only two who voted against the bill in either chamber. A proposed amendment by Bergen that would have lowered the income cap to $200,000 was also rejected by the Assembly.
MORRIS COUNTY — Banking industry veteran and Morris Plains resident Daniel Sharabba has joined Unity Bank as senior vice president and senior retail officer.
Sharabba is responsible for the development and execution of the community bank’s branch banking operations.
“We are excited to welcome Daniel to the Unity Bank family,” said James A. Hughes, Unity Bank president and chief executive officer. “Daniel brings great banking experience to the team and has an impressive background growing both business and consumer relationships. We look forward to his continued success with Unity.”
Unity Bank will be opening soon in Lake Hiawatha.
Sharabba previously served as regional manager and vice president with Citizens Bank, overseeing 17 retail locations, across five counties in Northern and Central New Jersey. Prior to that, he was with J.P. Morgan Chase, serving as private client branch manager, vice president, financial advisor, and office manager.
Sharabba is an Advisory Board member of nourish.NJ, a food bank based in Morristown, and the New Jersey Devils not-for-profit organization.
He and his wife, Emily, have two children, Macie and Leo.
Sharabba has a bachelor’s degree in corporate finance from Montclair State University.
PARSIPPANY — In November, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Board of Education election will be a highly contested race, as 12 candidates are vying for the three open seats. The deadline for candidates to file petitions to run for school board seats in the November general election in New Jersey was Monday, July 31.
This year, there are three three-year seats available: Timothy Berrios; Matthew DeVitto, and Debbie Orme (not seeking reelection). Berrios stepped down in May since his daughter became an employee of the school district. Kendra Von Achen temporarily filled his seat until an election is held.
The candidates who filed for these seats are:
Matthew DeVitto (seeking re-election)
Kendra Von Achen
Balakrishna “Bala” Samaga
Nilesh Bagdai
Falgun Bakhtarwala
Cassandra Cogan
Wendy Wright
Nicole Dellafave
Lily Benavides
Deitria Smith-Snead
Timothy P. Berrios
Andrew Choffo
Qualifications for candidates include:
Be able to read and write
Hold citizenship and one year’s residency in the school district
Have no interest in any contract with, or claim against, the board
Not hold office as mayor or member of the municipal governing body
Be registered to vote in the district and not be disqualified as a voter under N.J.S.A. 19:4-1
With such a diverse pool of candidates, the election promises to be an engaging and important event for the local community. Voters will have the opportunity to choose representatives who will contribute to the betterment of the education system in Parsippany-Troy Hills Township.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Schools consists of 14 schools, grades K-12 with a student enrollment of 7,153 students. The student-to-teacher ratio is 11:0.
MORRIS COUNTY — As parents start to plan for a new school year, Table of Hope once again is helping to make things easier with a free backpack distribution event at the County College of Morris (CCM).
The Backpack Giveaway at CCM takes place Friday, August 18, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Parking Lot 1 on CCM’s campus at 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. Visitors are asked to use CCM’s Center Grove Road entrance.
CCM has hosted numerous events with Table of Hope to assist those in need. This latest distribution event will provide backpacks filled with school supplies, consisting of pencils, rulers, glue sticks, notebooks, and more.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood have elevated Kelly Sandler to the position of Supervising Assistant Prosecutor, and Tara Wang to the role of Senior Assistant Prosecutor within the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
A formal ceremony was held on August 1, 2023, in the Commissioner’s Public Meeting Room.
Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Sandler will supervise the Domestic Violence Unit and Firearms Returns within the Family Division.
First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Senior Assistant Prosecutor Tara Wang, and Prosecutor Robert Carroll.
Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Sandler joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in 2016 as an Assistant Prosecutor in the Major Crimes Unit and the Arson/Environmental Crimes Unit. Since the resumption of trials in the last 2 years during and post-covid, SAP Sandler has successfully tried three jury trials as lead counsel, specifically State v. Kelvin Briggs, which resulted in a conviction for sexual assault, endangering and invasion of privacy and a 24-year NJSP sentence; State v. Andrew Pena, which resulted in a conviction for Corrupting a Jury and Obstruction and a 5-year NJSP sentence and State v. Shonette St. Clair who was found guilty by a jury on June 7, 2023, of two counts of second degree Arson and related charges. SAP Sandler also assisted Sr. AP Tara Wang in trying Edwin Urbina for murdering a 3-year-old boy resulting in a life sentence.
Immediately prior to the pandemic shutdown, SAP Sandler traveled with members of the Major Crimes Unit to California during the investigation of State v. Laureano-Gonzalez, a homicide defendant who had fled New Jersey to avoid prosecution, which ultimately ended with his plea of guilty in May 2020. She also recently effectively argued for an 18-year sentence in the homicide prosecution of Edilson Trejo, who killed an acquaintance in front of a child. SAP Sandler has received past commendations for her work on an Environmental Crimes prosecution for State v. Roberto Benitez, a case involving a violation of the Freshwater Wetlands Protection Act, which resulted in a $10,000 fine; and the successful Sex Crimes prosecution of State v. Kelvin Briggs.
Prior to joining the MCPO, SAP Sandler worked as an Assistant Prosecutor for eight years in the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office where she served primarily in the Special Victim’s Unit and the Trial Team. While there she was the Human Trafficking liaison to the Attorney General’s Office. She successfully prosecuted the first case charged in the State under the revised Human Trafficking statute, resulting in a sentence of 20 years in New Jersey State Prison with 20 years of parole ineligibility in State v. Charles Torres, Sr.
SAP Sandler also represents the MCPO as the liaison to the Attorney General’s Environmental Crimes Task Force and the New Jersey Northern Region Child Fatality Review Board. She is currently the co-Chair of the Women Lawyers Section of the Morris County Bar Association. Prior to joining the MCPO, SAP Sandler clerked for Presiding Criminal Judge Scott Moynihan in Union County. She holds a Juris Doctor from Rutgers University School of Law – Newark and a Bachelor of Arts from Boston University.
Senior Assistant Prosecutor Wang will continue to be assigned to the Major Crimes and Arson Units within the Tactical Division.
Sr. AP Wang started with the MCPO as a legal intern in 2010 and 2011. She later worked briefly for a civil defense firm and clerked for Civil Judge David H. Ironson in Morris County, before formally joining the MCPO in 2014 as an Assistant Prosecutor. While assigned to the General Investigations Unit, where she successfully tried State v. Jamal Nurse, involving the armed robbery of a Babies-R-Us in East Hanover where the defendant received a 12-year prison sentence; and State v. Casey Powers, involving a burglary of firearms from a residence in Mount Olive which resulted in a 15-year prison sentence.
In 2018, Sr. AP Wang was transferred to the Major Crimes and Arson & Environment Crimes Units, where she has been involved in a number of notable cases, including the trial of defendant John Formisano, an Acting Newark Police Lieutenant who was convicted of murdering his estranged wife and attempting to murder her boyfriend in Jefferson. Earlier this year, Sr. AP Wang brought to trial the case of State v. Edwin Urbina, who was ultimately convicted of murdering a three-year-old boy in East Hanover. The defendant, in that case, received a sentence of life without parole plus 20 years.
Sr. AP Wang has completed several noteworthy trainings while a member of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, including the Division of Criminal Justice’s Basic Course for Arson Investigators and Top Gun here in New Jersey, as well as the National Computer Forensics Institute’s Digital Evidence in Court for Prosecutor’s Program in Hoover, Alabama.
Sr. AP Wang earned her Juris Doctorate from Wake Forest University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Bryn Mawr College.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “I am proud to promote these accomplished prosecutors. Kelly and Tara have each distinguished themselves in the courtroom and amongst their colleagues. I anticipate many more successful investigations and trials in cases they are involved in.”
PARSIPPANY — Located at 409 South Beverwyck Road, this stunning and utterly gorgeous single-family colonial home boasts bright and sunny interiors, reflecting the true pride of ownership. Situated in a prime location with an excellent school system and convenient commuting options, this fully renovated property offers high-end quality throughout.
Step into elegance: the grand 2-story foyer at 409 South Beverwyck Road, adorned with high-end Italian crystal chandeliers, sets a tone of luxury from the very first glance.
A grand 2-story foyer welcomes you, adorned with fine high-end Italian crystal LED chandeliers and beautiful oak wood flooring that continues throughout the home. With six bedrooms, four full bathrooms, and one-half bathroom, there’s plenty of space for a growing family.
The property also features a finished basement, a media room, and a total of 12 rooms. The four-car garage offers ample parking space. Built in 2001, this luxurious home spans 5,390 square feet on a .88-acre lot, providing an elegant and comfortable living environment. This home sold for $1,325,000.
Pete’s book, “They Call Me Produce Pete;” co-authored by Susan Bloom, an award-winning writer and collaborator with Produce Pete on a broad range of articles and monthly columns
PARSIPPANY — On Friday, July 2, the Township of Parsippany Farmers Market, a weekly event at Veterans Memorial Park, offered a special treat to foodies, young and old, with a visit by loved and renowned fruit and vegetable expert, and highly popular television personality, Peter “Produce Pete” Napolitano.
Pete began his career in the produce industry in the early 1950s at the age of 5 and joined “Weekend Today in New York “in 1992, providing three-to-five-minute segments every Saturday morning educating viewers on seasonal produce; often smattered with candid, meaningful personal stories, along with his wife, Bette’s, family recipes (many of which can be found in his book). You know you’re doing something right when you can claim to have one of the longest-running segments in TV history!
With my latest copy of Parsippany Focus Magazine in hand, I was excited to meet with a man whose entertaining and informative television segments I have enjoyed for over 30 years. Pete has a reputation as a genuine, plain-speaking, regular guy with a heart of gold who easily relates to all segments of his viewing audience. Having the opportunity to have a nice conversation, discussing his new memoir/cookbook, as well as our restaurant-related features in Parsippany Focus, it was evident that he clearly lives up to his reputation. Of course, I had to make sure I picked up a signed copy of Pete’s book, “They Call Me Produce Pete;” co-authored by Susan Bloom, an award-winning writer and collaborator with Produce Pete on a broad range of articles and monthly columns.
Parsippany’s Farmers Market was obviously the perfect venue in which to meet with a man whose life has revolved around fresh, nutritious, locally grown fruits and vegetables. Listen to Produce Pete when he advises, “Support our farmers and buy local,” “They’re so important to the community, and once they’re gone, they’re gone.”
Finally, eat your veggies. “If you eat right, you’re going to live right!” he said.
The Farmers Market in Parsippany offers a diverse assortment of vegetables and fruits.It’s a world where dogs enjoy their treats.The Parsippany Farmer’s Market is in Veteran’s Park and will be open every Friday from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. until October 27.
PARSIPPANY — A veteran firefighter, past chief, and life member of Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company recently lost everything in a house fire. He has served his community and protected others for almost forty years and now he finds himself in need. Donald Denise has always been a considerate, hardworking, and thoughtful public servant. Anyone who knows him knows that he is willing to give the shirt off his back to anyone who needs it. He has devoted so much of his life to aiding others and we are thankful for any donations received.
We know we cannot replace the nostalgic memories of the items lost in the fire, but we aim to help rebuild any material possessions.
We are asking for help in any way you can and appreciate all donations. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
MORRIS COUNTY — Harmonium Choral Society will hold selective auditions for a limited number of openings in all voice parts for experienced singers with good sight-reading ability for the 2023-2024 concert season. Auditions will be held on select dates between August 26 and September 5 at Grace Church in Madison, 4 Madison Avenue at Kings Rd. Click here to learn more and sign up:
Rehearsals for the acclaimed 100-voice chorus begin September 10 and will be held at Grace Church in Madison on Sunday nights. Harmonium schedules three major concerts per season – December, March, and June – as well as a Chamber Singers concert and special appearances throughout the year. This year’s concerts are December 8 at 7:30 pm. and December 10 at 3:00 p.m., at the Presbyterian Church in Morristown; March 9 at 7:30 p.m. and March 10 at 3:00 p.m. at Morristown United Methodist Church and June 1 at 7:30 p.m. and June 2 at 3:00 p.m., also at, Morristown United Methodist Church.
Harmonium concert soloists are usually selected from the chorus’s members, over one-third of whom are professional musicians and/or music educators. Members are also invited to audition for the Harmonium Chamber Singers, a 20-voice ensemble selected from the full Harmonium chorus. This year’s repertoire ranges from Mozart’s Vespers to a world premiere by Dale Trumbore, with works from the Renaissance to the present.
Harmonium Choral Society, based in Morris County, is one of New Jersey’s leading choral arts organizations. The 100-voice choral society, directed by Dr. Anne Matlack of Madison, has been recognized for its eclectic programming, choral excellence, and community spirit, and sponsors commissions and musicianship workshops. Harmonium’s composers-in-residence are Mark Miller and Martin Sedek; the chorus has also commissioned and premiered works by Amanda Harberg, Matthew Harris, Elliot Z. Levine, Dale Trumbore, and many more. The chorus also sponsors an annual High School Student Choral Composition Contest, which celebrates its 27th anniversary in 2024. This innovative program won the prestigious Chorus America Education and Outreach Award.
PARSIPPANY — Pack your lawn chair and your hunger as more than 15 food vendors descend on Veterans Memorial Park on Saturday, September 9 from 12:00 Noon to 7:00 p.m. This grand event marks the farewell to summer 2023 and supports fundraising efforts for The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.
The festival will feature many local craft vendors
Expect not only a smorgasbord of delicious food and live music featuring Naughty Humphrey and Twisted Charm but also a variety of activities! Explore local craft vendors, try your hand at airsoft rifles, bounce on a bungee trampoline, get adorned with a henna tattoo, craft with sand art, and much more!
Pretty Good Pizza was one of the food vendors at the 2022 Food Truck Festival
For attendees aged 21 and above, our bar will serve chilled beer, wine, or hard seltzer.
Entry is set at $6.00 for everyone older than six years. Avoid the lines by getting your FastPass tickets online by clicking here.
This event welcomes pets!
Please note: Bringing outside food, drinks, or coolers is not permitted.
MORRIS COUNTY — The weather held off for nine holes at Hamilton Farm Golf Club’s Highlands Course in Gladstone Monday, June 26, when 108 golfers raised a record $180,000 for Preschool Advantage, enough to send 30 kids to preschool this fall.
“We are so grateful for the support we received from all our sponsors and attendees,” said Matt Mirett, event chair and Preschool Advantage trustee.
“We’d specifically like to recognize our Presenting Sponsor, Provident Bank, and our Tournament Sponsor, Open Road Auto Group, who provided foundational support for our event. Despite the weather, it was a great day for all involved and most importantly for the families we serve.”
Preschool Advantage is a Morristown-based non-profit organization that has provided more than 1,500 families with financial assistance for high-quality preschool education since 1995. The golf outing is one of its primary fund-raisers.
The organization will fund preschool tuition for 100 children for the 2023-24 school year and is still accepting applications for September.
PARSIPPANY — Recognize an exceptional senior Parsippany resident by nominating them for the “2023 Socolowski Senior Citizen of the Year Award.”
The award, initiated by Parsippany Township’s Office on Aging, is designed to honor two elderly volunteers, aged 60 and over, for their selfless commitment to projects, causes, or activities that positively impact the community. Although nominees can be employed, the award will only take into consideration their volunteer contributions. The award, financially supported by the Estate of Jean D. Socolowski, will present monetary prizes to the winning volunteers.
Click here to download the application, or request them by calling (973) 263-7163, or visiting the Office on Aging at the Parsippany Senior Center, 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha. After completion, applications can be submitted via fax to (973) 299-1349, email to mpicone@parsippany.net, or handed in or sent by mail to the above address. The deadline for applications is September 30, 2023.
Please note that Parsippany Township employees, previous winners, and elected officials are not eligible to apply. However, applicants from previous years who did not win are strongly encouraged to reapply.
For additional details, please contact the Office on Aging at (973) 263-7163.
MORRIS COUNTY — 2023 marks a significant year for YMCA Swimming, as it celebrates the 100th anniversary of its Short Course Swimming and Diving. This Centennial event honors the countless individuals who have pushed the boundaries of their aquatic abilities over the past century!
Similarly, the Lakeland Hills YMCA Competitive Swim Team is commemorating half a century of nurturing swimming champions. More crucially, it has played a pivotal role in molding athletes into resilient and competent individuals who embody the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. The team has been a platform for people of diverse ages, backgrounds, and life experiences to unlock their full potential in an environment that promotes dignity and respect.
All current and past swimmers, parents, coaches, officials, and friends are invited to be part of the 50th Anniversary celebration of the Competitive Swim Team on Friday, August 11, and Saturday, August 12. Here is the current schedule for the weekend:
On Friday, August 11, there is an evening meet-up for some fun and laughter at a local venue to be determined.
Saturday afternoon, August 12 all swimmers will return to their “water roots” as a Blue Green White Alumni Meet is held at Lakeland Hills Y from 1:00-3:00 pm with beers in the Pavilion at the Y.
Saturday evening, August 12, come join the celebration from 6:30-10:30 pm at The Mansion at Mountain Lakes with a full bar, dinner, and dancing. Currently, a Flash Sale is being offered as the event deadline nears. It is just $115 for each guest for the Celebration at The Mansion!
Come and celebrate as the Lakeland Hills Swim Team cheers to 50 Years!
The YMCA is a nonprofit community organization that aims to build community, develop youth, and create a safe experience for all. The Y strives to strengthen individuals, families, and communities through various programs and services by promoting wellness, mental health, and enrichment. Lakeland Hills Family YMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. As a result of their dedication to these three areas, the Y impacts the community by providing quality services to everyone. The Y doesn’t just focus on physical fitness; it also strives to improve mental and emotional health by offering programs and resources that promote overall well-being. The Y is building relationships, celebrating achievements, and inspiring a healthier community. For over 100 years Lakeland Hills Family YMCA has been the leading community organization serving thousands of people.
For more information on Lakeland Hills Family YMCA please visit their website at www.lakelandhillsymca.com or email Rosemary Linder Day, Vice President of Marketing and Membership, at rosemaryl@lhymca.com. No one serves the community as powerfully as the Y does every day.
PARSIPPANY — Video On The Go filmed the 2023 Teacher Staff Awards, Retirees, and 25 Years of Service.
Recognizing the hard work of educators is essential, and celebrating milestones such as retirements and 25 years of service makes these moments even more special. Being able to document these events ensures that they can be remembered and appreciated for years to come.
MORRIS COUNTY — In a fruitful partnership, the Morris County Nutrition Program and Ort Farms have joined forces for a third consecutive year to ensure fresh produce reaches the senior residents of Butler Senior Housing and Jefferson Chase this summer. This farm-to-table initiative gives seniors the choice to order prepackaged fresh fruits and vegetables from the Long Valley-based farm, subsequently delivered by the Nutrition Program staff.
The federally-funded Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) plays a key role in making this possible, providing vouchers to eligible seniors. These vouchers can be exchanged for fresh produce from participating farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture.
The Morris County Division on Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming’s Nutrition Program manages the initiative in Morris County. Christine Hellyer, the division’s director, explained that while the SFMNP has been operational for many years, the farm-to-table initiative began in 2021 due to the pandemic limiting seniors’ mobility. The pilot program, in partnership with Ort Farms, was successful and continues with some enhancements introduced in 2023.
One of the improvements made in 2023 was digitizing the voucher system with QR codes on plastic cards attached to lanyards for seniors to wear at participating farmer’s markets. This change mitigates the risk of voucher loss. Moreover, the amount distributed to each individual in a household has increased from $30 to $50, which corresponds to two deliveries of produce worth $25 each.
This year, a total of 72 bags of produce will be delivered to seniors across two housing units. The first set of deliveries, which took place on July 18 and 19, were welcomed by seniors, who received an assortment of seasonal fruits and vegetables. A second delivery is planned for September.
To further encourage participation, each senior who registered for a produce bag also received an indoor sprout blossom kit. The kit, containing mixed herbs that can grow in sunlight and stick to windows and walls, came as a bonus with the produce.
Director Rhea Young, who personally delivers the bags with the help of a community service worker and two interns, stated, “We’ll keep delivering until the need is met.” For more details and income guidelines for the SFMNP, interested parties can visit the Official Website of Morris County.
Ort Farms, a family-run business now in its sixth generation, operates a 400-acre farm and offers produce throughout the year. The farm also provides recreational activities for visitors.
PARSIPPANY — The owner of Tawfig Halal Meat, Victor, welcomed a visit from the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee, accompanied by Video on the Go.
Tawfig Halal Meat is located at 88 North Beverwcyk Road, Lake Hiawatha.
In conjunction with Video on The Go Producer, Cinematographer, and Director Brian Satch, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill began working with local businesses within Parsippany to help publicize their business.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor said, “Parsippany businesses create job opportunities here in Parsippany. And add to the Township character. They also contribute to our charitable organizations. As Mayor of the Township Parsippany-Troy Hills, I ask you to #SHOP LOCAL, #SHOP PARSIPPANY.
The video will be aired on Public Access Channel 21 and included on the Township’s social media posts. In addition, Parsippany Focus will promote the videos as a free service to the Parsippany business community.
“In addition to working with the Administration on attracting new business to Parsippany, our committee is committed to working with current businesses and helping promote business within Parsippany,” said Cahill.
The service is free to any Parsippany business. Contact Frank Cahill at (973) 559-6000 for scheduling.
PARSIPPANY — On a warm and sunny Sunday afternoon in Parsippany, the bustling Veteran Park became the vibrant setting for a lively picnic event that brought together the Democratic candidates and the local community. The aroma of freshly cooked empanadas filled the air, enticing participants and passersby to join the festivities.
Matt Clarkin served as the Master of Ceremonies (MC) during the gathering at Veterans Park.
Judy Hernandez, Bernard Clarkin, and Matt Kavanagh, the Democratic candidates running for Parsippany Council, eagerly mingled with the diverse crowd at the park. Excitement and camaraderie were palpable as people from different walks of life engaged in conversations and shared their hopes and aspirations for the community.
Amalia Duarte, Chair of the Morris County Democratic Committee, was seen holding a door hanger from the Hernandez, Kavanagh, Clarkin campaign while addressing the diverse crowd at Veterans Park.
Also joining were Jonathan Sackett for Morris County Commissioner; John Von Achen and Walter Mielarczyk for Assembly, Caroline O’Brien for Morris County Clerk and Amalia Duarte Chair of Morris County Democratic Committee.
The event’s main attraction, the empanadas, was a delightful conversation starter. Attendees flocked to the food truck, indulging in the mouthwatering variety of empanadas offered. As they savored the delicious treats, conversations flowed effortlessly, breaking down barriers and creating a sense of unity among all present.
John Von Achen, a candidate running for Assembly in Morris County, was also present at the gathering at Veterans Park.Jonathan Sackett, who is running for the position of Morris County Commissioner, was among the attendees at the event at Veterans Park.Caroline O’Brien, who is running for the position of Morris County Clerk, was also present at the Veterans Park gathering.
With her warm and approachable demeanor, Judy Hernandez connected effortlessly with the residents, listening attentively to their concerns and promising to advocate for their needs strongly. Matt Kavanagh, known for his passion for community development, discussed his vision for a more sustainable and inclusive Parsippany. Bernard Clarkin, a charismatic and experienced leader, shared his ideas on enhancing education and public services.
Judy Hernandez, a Parsippany-Troy Hills Council candidate, took the stage to address the audience during the gathering at Veterans Park.
“Hope is contagious. I want to communicate the hope that if every one of us is inspired to act collectively, we can positively impact our future,” said Hernandez.
Judy Hernandez, a respected community member with a strong service track record, was gearing up for a significant role in the town’s future. Having lived in Parsippany for 24 years, she had already left a positive impact through her involvement on the Parsippany Planning Board, the Environmental Advisory Committee, co-founder and co-leader of the Parsippany Green Team, and the board for the Parsippany Child Day Care Center. Her experience and dedication made her a formidable candidate for the upcoming council elections.
Bernard Clark, another candidate for the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council, was also part of the gathering at Veterans Park.
Another candidate, Bernard Clark, had deep roots in Parsippany, having called it home for 35 years. Although new to township politics, he possessed valuable expertise from running his small business for the past decade. As recognized by the election committee, his financial acumen and budgeting experience promised to be assets in managing the town’s affairs effectively.
Bernard Clarkin said, “Our team will win this council election! Win it by working harder and having a much better message than our opponents as we start knocking on doors in Parsippany this week. There will be no more massive 18% municipal tax increases or anything like that. I promise to bring my extensive financial background to the council to challenge the mayor and improve transparency. The green energy initiatives we will fight for will save the township money while improving our environment. I ask that you help us win by volunteering any time you can spare to help our campaign and get out the voters.”
Matt Kavanagh, a candidate for the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council, also addressed the crowd during the gathering at Veterans Park.
Lastly, Matt Kavanagh, with a decade-long residence in Parsippany, was eager to contribute his passion for sustainability and environmental consciousness to the council. He had already demonstrated leadership as the co-founder and co-leader of the Parsippany Green Team. He held a significant role as the chief operating officer of an energy services company. His experience in the energy sector made him an advocate for smart and eco-friendly policies, making him an appealing choice for voters concerned about the town’s future. Matt’s qualifications extended beyond his role as the co-leader of the Parsippany Green Team and chief operating officer of an energy services company. His experience includes managing large corporate budgets similar in scale to that of Parsippany’s municipal budget. This additional expertise positioned him well to address the financial complexities and challenges the town might face, gaining further support from voters who valued his comprehensive skill set.
“A sustainable community is environmentally conscious, but also diverse, resilient, responsible with resources, financially savvy, and plans for the long run. That is absent in our township government right now, so I’ll focus on this for Parsippany’s long-term future,” commented Matt.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Former Council Member Janice McCarthy and John Von Achen
