The Colony Plaza building is being demolished by TriCore Construction to make room for a new Chick-fil-A restaurant.The Colony Plaza building is being demolished by TriCore Construction to make room for a new Chick-fil-A restaurant.The Colony Plaza building is being demolished by TriCore Construction to make room for a new Chick-fil-A restaurant.The Colony Plaza building is being demolished by TriCore Construction to make room for a new Chick-fil-A restaurant.
PARSIPPANY — Those motorists driving on Route 46 this morning saw the excavators as they began tearing down the Colony Plaza building. TriCore Construction crew was out bright and early on Thursday, March 23, with heavy machinery to make room for the new Chick-fil-A, which will be constructed on the site.
Colony Plaza along Route 46 East was sold in 2020. The buyer purchased four more commercial properties across the highway in 2021, for which Top Golf received preliminary approval from the Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment.
TriCore Construction Group was contracted to complete the demolition of the Colony Plaza property. Earlier this month TriCore also demolished the Inn Crowd on Route 46 to make room for Taco Bell.
Colony Plaza was the home of Parsippany Focus in the early 1990s and the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.
Drawing of proposed Chick-fil-A
The new building will be 5,338 square feet with 62 interior seats and 18 exterior seating. 81 total parking spaces and eight electric charging stations. In addition, the drive-through will consist of two lanes with enough room to stack about 60 cars.
Colony Plaza was slowly dying and required a new life. The property had only 30% occupancy, and in the last three years, there were about six robberies, and there was evidence of people using this site at night time to abuse drugs. The property is an eyesore.
The property could have been developed with a 24-7 365 days Wawa or QuickChek. However, the landlord chose Chick-fil-A since it wasn’t a 24-7, 365-day business and closed on Sundays. The property could also have been used by a Bolla, Supermarket, Auto Repair Shop, Pub, section 8 residential, and many other uses.
Chick-fil-A will employ approximately 80 residents, with residents having the first opportunity.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners unanimously adopted a 2023 Budget, with no increase in the tax rate, as funding expanded for public safety, infrastructure, human services, education and training, and economic development.
“We are proud to adopt a 2023 Budget that continues to encourage the high quality of life consistent with Morris County while also being sensitive to the financial strain placed on taxpayers amid historical inflation rates.
Strong ratable growth and prudent financial planning made this budget possible. Morris County’s wise planning on healthcare benefits enabled us to have a much lower impact on increasing costs than other counties experienced with the state health plan. This enables us to provide and increase services such as public safety while maintaining a flat (tax) rate,” said Commissioner Deborah Smith, Chair of the Board’s Budget Committee.
Morris County Commissioner Director John Krickus
The $343.5 million 2023 Budget includes a $124.3 million Capital Spending Plan for the calendar year, of which $10.3 million is covered in grants and $85 million will apply towards the new Courthouse project. With those factors accounted for, the net 2023 Capital Spending Plan for traditional projects is approximately $29 million. This year’s fund balance also grew by $2.8 million, bringing it to $60.7 million, to safeguard against unforeseeable economic changes and help ensure Morris County maintains the AAA Bond rating held for 47 years.
“Our AAA standing saves everyone money in both the short and long term because it enables our towns and school districts, as well as the county, to borrow funds for important infrastructure projects at the best possible finance rates,” said Commissioner Director John Krickus.
The 2023 spending plan dedicates an estimated $74.6 million to public safety, including full dispatch services to 23 municipalities and continuing daily backup services to local Basic Life Support and Emergency Medical Service units for all 39 Morris County towns. Morris County’s Basic Life Support Emergency Medical Service Unit responded to over 3,866 Emergency calls in 2022.
Commissioner Deputy Director Christine Myers
“The county government is involved in carrying out the mission-driven allocation of financial investments that help target a myriad of programs meeting our community’s diverse needs and challenges. Initiatives like our Navigating Hope program and the Sheriff’s Office Hope One are combatting issues like substance use while raising awareness about county resources and available support,” Commissioner Deputy Director Christine Myers, a member of the Budget Committee.
Critical Community Investments
The Preservation Trust Fund Tax, which has protected and enhanced Morris County for over 30 years, will stay level for 2023 at 5/8 cent per $100 of total county equalized property valuation. The tax pays for improvements to our county parks and grant programs like Farmland Preservation, Open Space Preservation, Historic Preservation, Flood Mitigation, and Trail Design and Construction.
Among the educational, cultural, and economic development incentives included in the 2023 Budget is:
• $8.9 million to support the Morris County Park Commission, stewards of the largest county park system in New Jersey (20,455 acres of parkland)
• More than $12 million to support the County College of Morris, an increase over 2022
• Almost $6.4 million to the Morris County Vocational School District, also an increase over 2022
• More than $800,000 for Economic Development and Tourism
Critical Infrastructure Investments
Overall, the county’s 2023 Capital Spending Plan designates approximately $25.5 million toward enhancing road resurfacing, improving intersections along the 287 miles of county roadways, and replacing bridges and culverts this year. Nearly $8 million in grants will offset county costs.
Road Resurfacing Projects Include:
• 3.3 miles of Mendham Road (CR 510) from Indian Head Road to Cold Hill Road in both Mendham and Morris Townships
• 2.2 miles of Main Road (US 202) from Fulton Street to Route 287 Northbound Ramps in Montville Township
• 4.1 miles of Ridgedale Avenue (CR 632) from Littell Road (Route 10) to Route 80 in both Parsippany and East Hanover Townships
• 3.8 miles of Tempe Wick Road/Glen Alpin Road (CR 646) from Leddell Road to Blue Mill Road in both Mendham and Harding Townships
• 1.8 miles of Newark Pompton Turnpike (CR 660) from Jacksonville Road to Route 23 in Pequannock Township
Intersection Improvements Include:
• Ridgedale Avenue and Greenwood Avenue, Florham Park
• Center Grove Road and Quaker Church Road, Randolph
• Guide Rail Upgrades and Installations throughout the County Bridge and Culvert Projects Include:
• Dickson’s Mill Road Bridge in Harding Township
• Parsippany Boulevard Bridge in Parsippany
• Beach Street Bridge in Rockaway Borough
• Morris Street Bridge in Denville
Click here to download the 2023 operating and capital budgets PowerPoint presentation.
PARSIPPANY — At the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council meeting on Tuesday, March 21, Parsippany resident Dylan Mazzarella was recognized by Mayor James Barberio and presented with a Proclamation proclaiming March 21 as “Dylan Mazzarella Day.”
Dylan Mazzarella has been chosen for the id2 National Selection Team based on his performance in the Program cycle targeting players born in 2009. US Club Soccer invites him on the 2023 id2 National Selection International Tour to England, which will be held March 30 – April 11, 2023. Dylan is a student at Central Middle School and will be attending Delbarton School in the fall.
National Selection International Tour provides a multi-faceted experience on- and off-the-field, including competing against top youth academy teams, watching professional games, and playing at top-quality venues, as well as the unique educational and cultural experiences of traveling internationally.
Ed Barbary (Grandfather), Diana Mazzarella, Ava Mazzarella, Mayor James Barberio, Dylan Mazzarella, Debby Barbary (Grandmother), and Chris Mazzarella
The 2023 id2 National Selection International Tour officially begins March 30 with a two-day domestic camp in New Jersey before traveling to London and Manchester for an immersive experience of training, competition, and culture.
The tour, which concludes on April 11, represents the final progression of the current id2 age group cycle targeting players born in 2009.
Eighteen boys and 18 girls were selected from id2 National Training Camps held in Florida and California over the past two months. This is the first time US Club Soccer is taking the id2 National Selection girl’s team overseas; in previous years, the girls participated in a domestic camp alongside the ECNL.
For the id2 National Selection boys team, the tradition of foreign competition continues, and this year’s roster joins an elite community of alumni, including Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams, and Tim Weah.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee proudly introduces the residents to “Envy Sports Club.” Envy Sports Club is located in the lower level of the Sheraton Hotel, 299 Smith Road.
Did you know Parsippany has a YouTube channel? You can check it out here: Video On The Go YouTube Channel. Our new “Meet the Merchants” series is the most recent addition to the channel. Each installment focuses on a Parsippany business with a few words from the owner about what their business offers and why they love being a part of Parsippany. #Pride In Parsippany. #Shop Local #Shop Parsippany
James R. Barberio, Mayor
Loretta Gragnani, Liaison; Council President
Frank L. Cahill, Chairman
Dr. Bhagirath Maheta, Vice Chairman
Raj Dichpally, Secretary
Committee Members Michael Pulsinelli, Dr. Phil Santiago,
Robert Peluso, Raviram Medapati, Scott Donnelly, Adam Kandil, Jigar Shah, Drew Blind, and Nick Rafanello.
If you are a Parsippany business and want to be featured on “Meet the Merchant,” contact Chairman Frank Cahill at (973) 559-6000.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee proudly introduces the residents to “Zen Dental Care.” Zen Dental Care is located at 2200 Route 10 West.
Did you know Parsippany has a YouTube channel? You can check it out here: Video On The Go YouTube Channel. Our new “Meet the Merchants” series is the most recent addition to the channel. Each installment focuses on a Parsippany business with a few words from the owner about what their business offers and why they love being a part of Parsippany. #Pride In Parsippany. #Shop Local #Shop Parsippany
James R. Barberio, Mayor
Loretta Gragnani, Liaison; Council President
Frank L. Cahill, Chairman
Dr. Bhagirath Maheta, Vice Chairman
Raj Dichpally, Secretary
Committee Members Michael Pulsinelli, Dr. Phil Santiago, Robert Peluso, Raviram Medapati, Scott Donnelly, Adam Kandil, Jigar Shah, Drew Blind, and Nick Rafanello.
If you are a Parsippany business and want to be featured on “Meet the Merchant,” contact Chairman Frank Cahill at (973) 559-6000.
PARSIPPANY — You may not realize it at first glance. Still, a somewhat quaint downtown Lake Hiawatha, comprised of an approximately one-mile stretch of North Beverwyck Road, offers a wide, ethnically diverse variety of great little family-owned restaurants and shops, including a homemade ice cream specialty store. A vibrant section of Parsippany that is not without its multicultural charms, and which now is home to Carnales Mexican Restaurant, formerly Maddy’s Mexican, which was initially opened in 2012 by the Matos family as a Mexican Restaurant & Pizzeria and then acquired in 2015 by Andres Santiago and Isabel Salazar.
The small, cozy, warm interior is set up with approximately ten tables, comfortably spaced throughout the dining area so as not to feel crowded.
Now, continuing with another independent, family-owned business, we welcome brothers Saul, Ricardo, and Romel Santiago, who bring their take on Mexican cuisine to Los Carnales (which translates to “the brothers”), which they opened in September of 2022. The Santiago family hails from the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca, which is internationally renowned for its regional cuisine. I did get to sit down with one of the cordial Owners and Chef, Romel Santiago, during my visit, who told me that he arrived in America when he was 16 years old, following in his older brothers’ footsteps, and acquired his cooking skills working in the food industry over the years. He said his goal is to offer delicious, fresh food and to keep working on his cooking skills to continue to please his customers. Romel emphasized that “everything at Los Carnales is made to order, and only the freshest ingredients are used.” He also said old family recipes and cooking styles ensure the authenticity of the food.
By my count, we are fortunate to have no less than nine excellent restaurants and cantinas, plus a few of those fast food Tex-Mex franchises serving Mexican and Mexican fusion cuisine, all within a several-mile area of Parsippany. Ranging from more high-end, formal dining establishments to tiny, casual eateries, all offering up their take, often based on family recipes, regional differences, and traditional dishes, on this unique, flavorful, savory, earthy, and hearty fare. Which is best depends on your tastes and preferences, but I recommend trying them all and then deciding. It would be a fun family dining experience making the rounds, trying out the various eateries, many with their blend of spices, seasonings, textures, flavors, and cooking styles.
I enjoyed my visits to Maddy’s Mexican Restaurant and was sorry to hear they closed their doors late last year. I always hate to see these wonderful little family-owned shops move on, and I was hoping not to see an empty storefront at the location. Those concerns were quickly assuaged when I saw that another Mexican restaurant, Los Carnales, was taking over the location. I enjoy Mexican cuisine, and I always thought that the previous restaurant offered some tasty dishes, so I figured it was time to stop in and check out the new kid in town.
Colorful plastic tablecloths cover the tables, and the black leather cushioned wooden chairs provide that rustic look common to Mexican restaurants.
We were greeted by our very friendly server and hostess, Carla, who offered us the seating of our choice. The small, cozy, warm interior is set up with approximately ten tables, comfortably spaced throughout the dining area so as not to feel crowded. Colorful plastic tablecloths cover the tables, and the black leather cushioned wooden chairs provide that rustic look common to Mexican restaurants.
Romel Santiago, Carla and Pat Munutillo
The room is comfortably lit by the large storefront window, which is enough to allow you to enjoy the food and ambiance. Low Mexican music plays in the background. The décor throughout the restaurant is relatively simple yet appropriate to this venue. Brick wall accents, bright and colorful native American/Latin murals, assorted festive Mexican artifacts, and artwork adorn the walls. Altogether creating an appealing, bold, and cohesive color scheme that sets the tone for an enjoyable dining experience.
On their website, Los Carnales boasts that they offer “Authentic Mexican food, in addition to their unique twist on classic meals. Hearty Mexican and American specialties in an easygoing, BYOB space with festive décor.” After my visit, I must agree that they live up to their statement. I enjoyed the casual, comfortable atmosphere and friendly and efficient service. I found the food very tasty, well-prepared, expertly seasoned (spicy, as I like it, but not too spicy), beautifully presented, generously sized, and reasonably priced.
Nachos and Nopales con Chorizo
My friend and I started with a couple of shared appetizers. The extensive menu has many tantalizing selections, but we settled on the Nachos and Nopales con Chorizo. The Nachos (freshly made crispy corn tortillas mixed with melted cheese, Mexican sour cream, pico de galo, lettuce, guacamole, jalapeno & black beans) were a very large serving, delicious, and quickly devoured. Bowls of fresh Salsa Roja and Salsa Verde for dipping accompanied the nachos. Our other appetizer was the Nopales con Chorizo (roasted cactus mixed with Mexican sausage). Absolutely delicious!
Bowls of fresh Salsa Roja and Salsa Verde for dipping accompanied the nachos.
The chorizo was cooked perfectly, moist, savory, and with a hint of vinegar and chili peppers, and the cactus, with its slightly sour and citrusy taste, perfectly complemented the chorizo. Like the nachos, it was a very large serving! I honestly could have left a happy and satiated diner right there, but being me, I had to soldier through and try their signature dish, the Molcajete.
Their signature dish, the Molcajete
Carla, our server, arrived with my Molcajete, and I quickly realized my eyes were bigger than my stomach. A very ample variety of Mexican Sausage, Steak, Chicken, Shrimp, Pork Chop, Cactus, Jalapenos, Fresh Cheese slices, and Cambray Onions filled and overhung the enormous molcajete. A molcajete is a traditional mortar and pestle bowl made of volcanic stone that keeps the food hot. Fantastic entrée, but enough for two or three people. I knew by now that I was taking most of it home. It also came with sides of hot tortillas, rice, and beans. Wow! Different textures, different tastes, and different seasonings, but it all came together perfectly. Wonderful dish.
Chicken Fajita, served with soft flour tortillas, rice, beans, pico de gallo, Mexican sour cream, and guacamole.
My friend ordered the Chicken Fajita, served with soft flour tortillas, rice, beans, pico de gallo, Mexican sour cream & guacamole. Again, a generous portion and, according to him, delicious.
Tres Leches
Common sense would dictate that I should skip dessert by now, but no one ever said I had common sense. Tres Leches cake was on the menu, and I loved it; it is a Mexican-origin cake. The vanilla sponge cake, soaked in three kinds of milk, was moist, sweet (not too sweet), and decadent and made for the perfect grand finale to a great meal.
I would recommend you stop in and give Los Carnales a try. I’m sure you will enjoy it. Delicious food, nice people, and you will be supporting a relatively new local business.
Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday- 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Dine-in – Take Out – Curbside Pickup – No Contact Delivery – BYOB. Catering Available. Street Parking
Los Carnales Mexican Restaurant, 52 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha. (973) 794-6700; www.loscarnalesmexican.com.
MORRIS COUNTY — Stanley Fiel, MD, FACP, FCCP, has been named Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Atlantic Health System’s Morristown Medical Center, ranked by U.S. News & World Report the #1 hospital in New Jersey for five consecutive years. Dr. Fiel has served as interim CMO since May.
“We are honored that Dr. Fiel will continue to play a highly instrumental medical leadership role at Morristown Medical Center,” said Trish O’Keefe, Ph.D., RN, President, Morristown Medical Center and Senior Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive, Atlantic Health System. “Dr. Fiel’s leadership during this time has been invaluable. He has guided and collaborated with our medical and nursing staff throughout the COVID pandemic and recent pediatric respiratory surges, skillfully leading our team during challenging, high-volume periods at our hospital.”
Dr. Fiel has served as the chairman for the Department of Medicine and as a leading physician at Morristown Medical Center for nearly 20 years and is an experienced and accomplished clinician, educator, and researcher. Dr. Fiel is also a Professor of Medicine at Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University and is the author of numerous published works and an active member of local and national societies.
“Witnessing the impact of the compassionate care demonstrated by our health care teams here, I am reminded daily to seek out and strengthen my connections with my patients, their families, and all of the staff that support the care we provide to our community,” said Dr. Fiel. “For those of us at Morristown Medical Center and Atlantic Health System, we see our responsibility to deliver unparalleled health care and to elevate our reputation for extraordinary care.”
After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Connecticut, Dr. Fiel was awarded his Medical Degree and inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha honor society at the Medical College of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. He then completed an internship and residency at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia and a fellowship in the pulmonary disease section of the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Since 1978, Dr. Fiel has held key hospital appointments, including Chief of the Division of Pulmonary/Critical Care Medicine at Drexel University College of Medicine and Hahnemann University in Philadelphia.
A Fellow of the American College of Chest Physicians and the American College of Physicians, Dr. Fiel also is a member of the American Thoracic Society and other professional societies. He has served on the editorial boards for journals such as the Journal of Asthma, Chest, and Clinical Pulmonary Medicine. Dr. Fiel’s many contributions to medical literature have appeared in publications such as The New England Journal of Medicine, the Journal of the American Medical Association, the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, and Chest. His major research interests include the mechanisms of inflammation in cystic fibrosis and therapeutic advances in treating obstructive pulmonary disorders, including asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He has published over 200 articles, abstracts, chapters, and monographs in the Medical literature.
Atlantic Health System is at the forefront of medicine, setting standards for quality health care in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and the New York metropolitan area. Powered by a workforce of more than 19,000 team members and 4,800 affiliated physicians dedicated to building healthier communities, Atlantic Health System serves more than half of the state of New Jersey, including 12 counties and 6.2 million people. The not-for-profit system offers more than 400 sites of care, including its seven hospitals: Morristown Medical Center in Morristown and Overlook Medical Center in Summit. Newton Medical Center in Newton and Chilton Medical Center in Pompton Plains. Hackettstown Medical Center in Hackettstown, Goryeb Children’s Hospital in Morristown, Atlantic Rehabilitation Institute in Madison, and through its partnership with CentraState Healthcare System in Freehold.
Atlantic Medical Group, comprised of 1,600 physicians and advanced practice providers, represents one of the largest multi-specialty practices in New Jersey and joins Atlantic Accountable Care Organization and Optimus Healthcare Partners as part of Atlantic Alliance, a Clinically Integrated Network of more than 2,500 health care providers throughout northern and central NJ.
Atlantic Health System provides care for the full continuum of health care needs through 23 urgent care centers, Atlantic Visiting Nurse, and Atlantic Anywhere Virtual Visits. The transportation fleet of Atlantic Mobile Health facilitates the connection between these services on both land and air.
Atlantic Health System leads the Healthcare Transformation Consortium, a partnership of six regional hospitals and health systems dedicated to improving access and affordability, and is a founding member of the PIER Consortium – Partners in Innovation, Education, and Research – a streamlined clinical trial system that will expand access to groundbreaking research across five health systems in the region.
Atlantic Health System has a medical school affiliation with Thomas Jefferson University and is home to the regional campus of the Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Morristown and Overlook Medical Centers and is the official healthcare partner of the New York Jets.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany–Troy Township Council Meeting – March 21, 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.
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.
Mayor James R Barberio
Council President Loretta Gragnani
Council Vice-President Michael J. dePierro
Councilman Paul Carifi Jr.
Councilman Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella
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.
Andrew Cangiano Board Engineer, Keller & Kirkpatrick
Joseph Garcia Board Attorney, Cleary Giacobbe Alfieri Jacobs
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.
PARSIPPANY — Country Western Dance Night will be held on Saturday, April 1 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 249, 91 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha.
Join them for a fun-filled night of food, music, and dancing with DJ Nashville Nick, playing all your favorite Country Hits of yesterday and today! There will also be a Tricky Tray, so bring your lucky charms!
Tickets are available at the legion for a donation of $25.00 per person. This will include admission, dinner, and entertainment.
They will also accept donations of canned goods for the local food pantry.
Please stop in or call the post at (973) 335-9266 for info or tickets.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Viking Girls Indoor Track 4×800 Relay Team consisting of Anya Sadowski, Kira Chebishev, Leann Lombardi, and Amanda Hoffman attended the Nike Indoor Track and Field Nationals at the Armory in New York City on Saturday, March 11.
Based on relay times from the current season, the girls qualified for the Emerging Elite race and ran against a field of 31 teams, with some coming as far away from Michigan and North Carolina.
At the conclusion of the race, the girls took 1st place with a time of 9:37:15, which also beat the previous school record of 9:47. The victory was a great close to what was a successful season that included winning The State Group 2 Relay meet in the 4×800 back on January 16 at The Bubble in Toms River, becoming State Champions for their group! Congratulations on what was a successful season.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Lions Club held an Installation Charter Ceremony on Sunday, March 12. The official charter date is February 14, 2023, which according to District Governor Kam Patel, 16-N makes this a “loving club.”
This club was formed by members of the sponsoring Livingston Lions Club who, living in Parsippany, decided to give back to their community by forming their own Lions Club.
The 21 charter members are Lions Mihika Bhatt, Vinit B. Bhatt, Rahul Chitte, Joshaba Jayakar, Pratap Jayaker Club President, Dhanajay Kelkar, Mruduka Kelkar Club Secretary, Shewta Mahale, Bharat K. Patel, Dilip Patel, Shakuntala Patel, Ushaben B. Patel, Jayashree Shah, Dr. Nayan K. Shah, Rajendra Shah, Rahesh P. Shah Club Treasurer, Reena Shah, Soval Shah, Hemal Sheth, Nitrin J. Sheth, Parul Sheth.
King Lion Pratap Jayakar welcomed all guests and dignitaries by stating that this is a memorable day as we celebrate the club’s charter presentation ceremony. Thank you to District Governor Kam Patel and PDG Nalit Patel for sponsoring the Parsippany Lions Club. He also stated that the club aims to serve other organizations to benefit the Parsippany community.
Mayor James R. Barberio, accompanied by Councilman Frank Neglia and Paul Carifi, Jr., stated that Lions are role models with their passion for helping those in need, working together in unity and strength, collaboration and teamwork creates goodwill for the community, and successful service projects.
District Governor Kam Patel thanked all for attending this Charter celebration. Creating the Parsippany Lions Club was a 15-month process, and with a lot of energy from the charter members, “we did it!”
Lions dignitaries attending this charter celebration included PID Dr. Bob Moore, State Advisor Dawn Kosobucki, Pact Council Chair Jack Romano, PDGs Brad Day and Nalit Patel, who are the Parsippany Lions Club Guiding Lions, Ruth Molenaar, Nancy Jakubczyk, Dennis Brubaker, and District 16-N Cabinet members 1VDG John Carroll and 2VDG Barbara Corsaro.
Members of Parsippany community organizations included Frank L. Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Board, and Robert J. Peluso, President of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, of which the Parsippany Lions Club is a member.
PID Bob Moore inducted all members of the Parsippany Lions Club who were present, stating that the Club Charter will be a piece of history as it is to be signed by all charter members. PID Bob Moore and the other Lions dignitaries presented the club charter and individual charter membership certificates.
Lion Rahul Chitte, a founding charter member, gave the congratulatory speech citing our founder Melvin Jones as someone who recognized that we must be compassionate and selfless in giving back to the community. King Lion Pratap Jayakar thanked him for his works of encouragement.
The 21 charter members are Lions Mihika Bhatt, Vinit B. Bhatt, Joshaba Jayakar, Pratap Jayaker Club President, Dhanajay Kelkar, Mruduka Kelkar Club Secretary, Shewta Mahale, Bharat K. Patel, Dilip Patel, Shakuntala Patel, Ushaben B. Patel, Jayashree Shah, Dr. Nayan K. Shah, Rajendra Shah, Rahesh P. Shah Club Treasurer, Reena Shah, Soval Shah, Hemal Sheth, Nitrin J. Sheth, Parul Sheth.Some of the Charter members listening to opening remarksParsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio addresses the charter membersThe “Leos” saying the Pledge of AllegianceParsippany-Troy Hills Councilmen Paul Carifi, Jr., and Frank NegliaPID Bob Moore presenting a membership certificate to Pratap Jayaker Club PresidentPID Bob Moore presents the club’s charter to Pratap Jayaker, Club President, and Kamlesh Patel, 2022-2023 District Governor, District 16N, New Jersey.Kamlesh Patel, 2022-2023 District Governor, District 16N, New Jersey, presents Rahul Chitte with his membership certificate,Lion Rahul Chitte, a founding charter member, gave the congratulatory speech.Pratap Jayaker Club PresidentParsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio cuts the celebration cake with the help of some Leos.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment 2023 Members and Term Dates
Robert Iracane Chairman 12/31/25
Dave Kaplan Vice-Chair 12/31/23
Bernard Berkowitz Member 12/31/24
Scot Joskowitz Member 12/31/25
Nancy Snyder Member 12/31/23
Sridath Reddy Member 12/31/25
Davey Willans Member 12/31/24
Casey Parikh Alt. No. 1 12/31/23
Chris Mazzarella Alt. No. 2 12/31/23
John Chadwick, Planner, John T. Chadwick IV P.P.
Chas Holloway, Engineer, Keller & Kirkpatrick
Peter King, Attorney, King Moench Hirniak & Collins, LLP
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.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting will be held on March 21, 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.
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.
Mayor James R Barberio
Council President Loretta Gragnani
Council Vice-President Michael J. dePierro
Councilman Paul Carifi Jr.
Councilman Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella
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.
Andrew Cangiano Board Engineer, Keller & Kirkpatrick
Joseph Garcia Board Attorney, Cleary Giacobbe Alfieri Jacobs
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.
MORRIS COUNTY — Now in its 18th year, the 2023 Valerie Fund Walk & 5K will be held Saturday, June 10 event in Essex County’s Verona Park to celebrate and honor Valerie Fund patients battling pediatric cancer and blood disorders. The event starts at 8:30 a.m.
The fundraiser is presented by Valerie Fund founders and Warren Township natives Ed and Sue Goldstein, and JAG-ONE Physical Therapy.
There are several new ways to get involved in the walk and 5K run this year.
Team Captains who raise $1,000 or more for their team will earn a gold shirt to set them apart as a Fundraising Gold Team at June 10 event.
In addition, numerous table prizes will be offered via drawing at the event. Tickets for prizes may be purchased through team captains, online at www.TheValerieFund.org/Walk or at their local JAG-ONE office. The holder of the winning ticket does not need to be present on the day to win.
For even more fun on the day, The Valerie Fund has added a Color Run component to the Kid Sprint, sponsored by The Learning Express. There will also be a family games area with the naming sponsorship still available. Contact Leah DelPiano at ldepiano@thevaleriefund.org if interested in this or any other sponsorship opportunities.
The event has raised more than $11 million to fight childhood cancers and blood disorders over its 18 years.
To learn more about the event and to register for the sanctioned 5K race and the walk, visit www.thevaleriefund.org/Walk2023. Many questions can be answered by referring to the website’s FAQ tab or calling The Valerie Fund offices at (973) 761-0422.
The Valerie Fund offered special thanks to Sue and Ed Goldstein, its founders, and presenting sponsors. JAG-ONE Physical Therapy is the exclusive run sponsor. Additional sponsors include RWJ Barnabas, Atlantic Health, Burger King, CBSTV, Jersey Mikes, Bank of America, CBOE, Inserra Shoprite, Merck, and St. Joseph’s Health.
About The Valerie Fund
After their 9-year-old daughter Valerie succumbed to cancer, the Goldsteins were determined that no family should have to travel great distances to receive superior medical care.
Along with a group of close friends, they began fundraising efforts from their living room – tireless work that would lead to the 1977 opening of New Jersey’s first pediatric oncology facility at Summit’s Overlook Hospital. More than 40 years later, The Valerie Fund’s mission remains that of supporting comprehensive health care for children battling cancer and blood disorders.
The Valerie Fund addresses the most immediate needs of patients and families whose lives are suddenly and dramatically upended. Core services provide emotional, practical, and financial support complementing state-of-the-art medical treatment at seven Valerie Fund Children’s Centers located in New Jersey, New York, and metro Philadelphia.
The hallmark of The Valerie Fund services ensures that families and hospitals do not have to rely on insurance reimbursements to receive the range of support of a multi-disciplinary team including a staff of social workers, psychologists, child life specialists, and educational liaisons. More than 6,000 children with cancer and blood disorders are treated annually – a network that is one of the largest of its kind in the country.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and East Hanover Chief of Police Christopher F. Cannizzo confirmed the sentencing of Edwin Urbina, 29, and Krystal Straw, 29, in connection with the beating death of Straw’s three-year-old son.
On January 12, 2023, Straw appeared before the Honorable Stephen J. Taylor, P.J. Cr. and entered an open plea of guilty to two counts of second-degree Endangering Welfare of a Child, three counts of third-degree Hindering Apprehension, third-degree Tampering with a Witness, and fourth-degree Tampering with Physical Evidence.
On March 1, 2023, a jury returned a guilty verdict for Urbina following a seven-day trial. The defendant was found guilty of first-degree Murder with an Aggravating Factor, three counts of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, third-degree Hindering Apprehension or Prosecution, two counts of third-degree Tampering with a Witness, and fourth-degree Tampering with Evidence.
On March 16, 2023, Judge Taylor imposed sentences for both defendants during separate court proceedings. Urbina was sentenced to an aggregate sentence of Life imprisonment without eligibility for parole plus 20 years subject to 10 years of parole ineligibility. The sentence shall be served in a maximum security prison. Straw was sentenced to an aggregate sentence of 18 years imprisonment subject to five years parole ineligibility.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “These sentencings bring to a close this terrible and tragic crime. Justice has finally been done for little 3-year-old Liam.”
Prosecutor Carroll would like to thank and acknowledge the agencies that participated in the investigation that led to the successful prosecution, including the exhaustive efforts of the East Hanover Police Department, the Morristown Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office, and various Units in the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in working together to investigate this incident leading to the guilty verdict. The Prosecutor would also like to, especially thank Assistant Prosecutor Tara Wang and Senior Assistant Prosecutor Kelly Sandler, who tried this case in court, and MCPO Detective Matthew Belcastro and East Hanover Det. Lt. Andrew Underwood for their outstanding efforts in the prosecution of this case.
HANOVER — No injuries were reported, but residents of the Red Carpet Inn and Scottish Inn, 1255 Route 10 had to be lodged elsewhere after a fire erupted at the Red Carpet Inn around 6:00 p.m. on Friday, March 17.
A fire prompted a mass evacuation Friday night, officials reported. The power was shut off in the entire hotel after the fire. Hanover Township Police Chief Loock ordered the hotel shut down Friday night, and officers were on the scene escorting all occupants to the room to take necessary belongings.
A temporary shelter at the Hanover Township Community Center, 15 North Jefferson Road, Whippany, has opened for anyone affected by this fire, the New Jersey Red Cross said in a statement. The Red Cross staff are providing three meals a day as well as blankets.
At least 250 people have been displaced between the Red Carpet Inn and Scottish Inn, with at least 220 from the Red Carpet Inn. The fire caused the power to be shut off at the Scottish Inn; however, the residents of that motel were able to return on Saturday, March 18, according to American Red Cross New Jersey Region Communications Manager Sheri Ferreira.
Hanover Township Police and American Red Cross parked in front of Hanover’s Community Center where many residents of the Red Carpet Inn were shelteredMorris County Office of Emergency Management “Pet Disaster Relief” trailer parked in front of Hanover Township’s Community CenterMany American Red Cross vehicles parked in the Hanover Community Center parking lotMany American Red Cross vehicles parked in the Hanover Community Center parking lotAmerican Red Cross parked at The Red Carpet Inn, Route 10, Hanover
Several people have been able to stay with family, friends, and neighbors, according to Ferreira, who said she didn’t know when the power will be back on and when residents will be able to return. The Red Cross will be at the Community Center as long as they need to be said Sheri Ferreira.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Hanover Township Police Department, and Hanover Township Fire District #3.
Township of Hanover Office of Emergency ManagementWorkers started clearing out debris from rooms where the fire occurredWorkers started clearing out debris from rooms where the fire occurredWorkers started clearing out debris from rooms where the fire occurred
All activities at the Township’s Community Center are canceled through Tuesday, March 21, 2023.
PARSIPPANY — Mathnasium celebrated a re-grand opening ribbon cutting of their new location, 135 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha. Mathnasium also celebrated Pi Day with a party with over 100 attendees.
Joining in the celebration was Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Loretta Gragnani, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso and Board Members Nicolas Limanov and Ildiko Peluso.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development presented Mathnasium with a plaque thanking them for expanding their business and relocating in Parsippany.
Pi Day celebrates the number 3.1459 that goes on and on…It’s the numerical value of the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter.
Frank Cahill, Chairman Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development, presents Danna Seyam, Owner, with a plaque thanking her for choosing Parsippany. Council President Loretta Gragnani, Robert Peluso and Mayor James Barberio looks on
The event was attended by over 100 people, including students, siblings, friends, and parents. The celebration included various fun Pi-related activities. Some included visualizing Pi through jewelry making, a Pi word search, and making your dessert pies. One of the kids’ favorites was the Pi memorization contest. The person that memorized the most digits of Pi got to pie the instructor of their choice in the face! This year’s winner was Aditri Priya, who selected Chris, one of the kids’ favorite instructors, to get pied!
There was pizza for dinner and rewards for the kids after completing their activity cards. It was a really fun night for all involved! The kids can’t wait for the next one!
Mathnasium was established in 2002 and operates over 1,000 Learning Centers nationwide, providing the best private math tutoring nearby. Larry, a teacher, a curriculum consultant, and Mathnasium’s expert on the team, spent years refining math teaching methods.
They have designed fun and engaging techniques to help children understand math easily. Mathnasium has highly experienced and qualified math tutors who teach after-school mathematics programs.
Luke Wimmer, Lead Instructor; Shari Buchanan. Instructor; Danna Seyam, Owner: Jon Lorenzo, Center Director; and Chris Gill, Lead Instructor.
Danna Seyam, the owner, graduated with honors from Rutgers Business School with her bachelor’s in Accounting. She is a Certified Public Accountant and worked in Corporate America for ten years. She started as an Auditor for PriceWaterhouseCoopers and continued her career in accounting in the banking industry at Barclay’s and CIT. While working as a CPA, Danna always felt like something was missing. She wanted more than helping the large companies and realized what it was one day while volunteering with Barclay’s reading to kindergartners in the Bronx. As the kids sang a thank you song to the volunteers, Danna realized this was missing in her life, empowering young minds to become our future. She always had the desire to become a teacher. After that experience with the kindergartners, her passion for helping kids was re-ignited. That passion, along with her business background, inspired her to open up a Mathnasium. Mathnasium’s commitment to teaching kids math in a way that makes sense and Danna’s love of math was the perfect fit. She believes that helping a child become more confident in math not only helps them get better grades but truly makes them more confident overall, giving them the opportunity for bigger dreams and the conviction that they will be able to achieve them.
John Lorenzo, Center Director, graduated from Rutgers University and majored in Mathematics. He has extensively undergone a variety of teaching classes and mathematics courses, including Calculus I-III, Differential Equations, Advanced Calculus I & II, Geometry, Linear and Abstract Algebra, and Probability and Statistics. He has worked with children for over 16 years and actively volunteers as a mentor through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program once a week. His passion for mathematics is rivaled only by his passion for teaching it. He commits himself to ensure each student attains a firm conceptual understanding of the topics.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Interfaith Food Pantry Network (IFPN) will host its annual spring gala Sustaining Hope, at 6:30 p.m. Friday, April 21, at the Birchwood Manor at 111 North Jefferson Road, Whippany.
Tickets to this fundraising event are $250 each and include a cocktail reception, dinner, silent and live auctions, table prizes, and DJ and dancing. They can be purchased by clicking here.
IFPN will honor Barclays, a British universal bank, as its Outstanding Service Award recipient for its partnership in the execution of IFPN’s strategic efforts.
The Margaret A. Darrin Charitable Trust will receive the Pantry Partner Award for funding the expansion and renovation of its Healthy Choices Marketplace and Resource Center.
IFPN volunteers and Chester residents Chris and Jim MacDonald will receive the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Award for their long-term commitment and support of the IFPN over the last 20 years for their work, including Chris MacDonald’s dedication as a trustee.
“The individuals and organizations being honored have made significant contributions to our organization, in time, talent, and treasure, and have impacted the lives of thousands of people in our community, improving their health, financial stability, and well-being,” said Executive Director Carolyn Lake.
Through the pantries, they operate and their mobile network partners, the IFPN accommodated more than 31,000 household visits. The event will also celebrate IFPN’s plans to welcome its clients back into its newly expanded and renovated Client Choice Marketplace this summer for the first time since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Our new marketplace will feature an expanded and updated waiting area for providing client resources and a client-choice pantry that empowers our guests to choose healthy foods that they know their families will use and enjoy,” Lake said.
The evening will highlight IFPN’s current goals and achievements over the last year, including expanding its cold storage units by 550 percent and distributing 1.7 million pounds of nutritious food, including 673,000 pounds of fresh produce.
Proceeds from Sustaining Hope will fund IFPN Healthy Choices Marketplaces and Mobile Network programs providing healthy food to the ever-growing number of families facing food insecurity and hunger throughout Morris County. The IFPN is currently experiencing a 49 percent increase in client visits in January 2023 as compared to January 2022, and IFPN staff expect this trend to continue as clients face high inflationary costs while concurrently likely, many SNAP recipients are facing a decrease in their benefits as federal emergency allotments reach an end this month.
Pantry clients include low-income working families, seniors living on fixed incomes, people with disabilities, and those suffering from illness or job loss.
