PARSIPPANY — The Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company (Parsippany-Troy Hills Fire District Two) held its annual awards dinner at the Mansion in Mountain Lakes on Saturday evening, February 11. Following the opening ceremonies, Parsippany Mayor James Barberio thanked all the department’s volunteer members for their service and stressed the importance of all volunteers in making “Parsippany a great place to live.”
Joining Mayor Barberio in attendance was Parsippany Town Council Vice-President Michael dePierro and representatives from the Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Company, Lake Hiawatha Fire Department, Parsippany Fire District 5, and Denville Fire Department as well as Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad, Rockaway Neck Volunteer First Aid Squad, and Parsippany Fire Prevention Bureau.
The highlight of the evening was RLVFC Chief Russ Greueter presenting the “Firefighter of the Year” honors to Capt. Josh Lefferts of Rainbow Lakes. From the podium, Chief Greueter discussed the outstanding dedication, motivation, and service Josh demonstrated over the past year.
RLVFC President Frank DeRienzo recognized firefighters Capt. Joe Reeber for 20 years of service; Lt. Keith Lefferts for 35 years of service; and Life Member George Robinson for 55 years of service. President DeRienzo also recognized Treasurer Mark Rabson for five years of service.
Chief Grueter also recognized his 2023 officers Deputy Chief Jeff Pikor, Captains Joe Reeber and Josh Lefferts, and Lieutenants Nolan Keena, Keith Lefferts, and Corey Martin.
Chairman of the District Two Board of Fire Commissioners, Donald Denise, thanked all the members of the fire company for the extraordinary service they perform around the clock providing fire protection to the residents and business taxpayers of the fire district. He also thanked the spouses and families for their support and for allowing the members to serve. Commissioner Denise also acknowledged fellow commissioners Pete Deegan, Matt Miller, Jim Murphy, and Chuck Iantosca, who were in attendance.
The Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company actively seeks new members to join their ranks. All training and equipment are provided free of charge. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a firefighter, email membership@rlvfc.org, or find them on Facebook and Instagram @rlvfc.
PARSIPPANY — Over 650 students were named to Alvernia University’s Dean’s List for the fall 2022 semester, including Hannah Ververs majoring in Occupational Therapy major
“Congratulations to Hannah, a dedicated and hard-working student, for getting the most out of the classroom and experiential learning experiences at Alvernia. Their hard work and academic achievement on top of their other personal, academic, and professional responsibilities are to be applauded,” said Alvernia University President John R. Loyack. “I cannot wait to see the academic achievements they continue to accomplish in the 2023 spring semester.”
To be eligible for the Dean’s List, students must carry a semester GPA of 3.5 or better and take a minimum of 12 credits. A full list of students is available at Alvernia.edu.
“Each and everyone one of the students on this list should be commended for their commitment to their academic excellence and themselves as they continue to grow personally and professionally while following their passions,” said Alvernia University Senior Vice President and Provost Glynis Fitzgerald.
Alvernia University is a Catholic comprehensive university with a liberal arts foundation founded by the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters in 1958. The university serves over 3,000 students in Reading, Pottsville, and Philadelphia with a unique blend of rigorous liberal arts education, strong technical training in many high-demand majors, ever-expanding experiential learning opportunities through study abroad and internship experiences, and community engagement through its Franciscan-based community service model.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School Key Club members visited and had breakfast with the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. The Key Club members could discuss all of their accomplishments so far and what upcoming events they had planned. The Key Club has been instrumental in helping the Club during the food distributions and collecting food at ShopRite for the Parsippany Food Pantry.
Key Club is an international, student-led organization that provides its members with opportunities to provide service, build character and develop leadership. Key Club is dedicated to bettering our home, school, and community through service projects, fundraising, and community service. Some requirements must be completed at the beginning of the school year to be eligible for membership in Key Club.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany sponsors the Parsippany Hills High School Key Club.
MORRIS COUNTY — We can agree to disagree, but as far as I’m concerned, New Jersey lays claim to many of the finest Italian American restaurants in the Country. In the general Parsippany area alone, we are very fortunate to experience and enjoy a memorable dining experience at any of those elite eateries. I recently did get that opportunity with a visit to a relative newcomer to the local culinary scene, Elian’s Bistro Café, located in Pine Brook.
The color scheme of grays over natural brick, with minimal but tasteful décor, perfectly suits this small, family-owned, operated eatery. In the true sense of a bistro, the ambiance is one of a comfortable, intimate, warm, and welcoming atmosphere. Simple, yet with an air of unpretentious refinement. Ten small tables are spaced comfortably throughout the limited dining area to ensure customer comfort.
The color scheme of grays over natural brick, with minimal but tasteful décor, perfectly suits this small, family-owned, operated eatery.
Large plate glass windows provide adequate and comfortable lighting throughout the entirety of the dining room. One large screen T.V. is set up quietly behind the host station, should that be of interest to anyone. The restaurant is named after Edgar and Merced’s five-year-old son, Elian.
Chef Edgar Sanchez, like so many accomplished chefs I have interviewed over the years, began his culinary journey working as a dishwasher at the young age of 16. Arriving in the U.S. from the city of Oaxaca, Mexico, in 1997, Chef Sanchez first settled in the City of Hoboken, where his first job was at the City Bistro Restaurant Lounge, eventually moving on to the Sonoma Bistro in Rutherford, where his mastery of Italian cuisine blossomed.
Pat Minutillo, Merced, and Chef Edgar Sanchez
Eventually, working his way up the chain from Line Chef to the gifted Chef he is today. Always hungry to learn, the Chef began to hone his impressive culinary skills by watching, studying, and emulating the many talented chefs he has worked with throughout his career.
Like all outstanding Chefs, his passion, pride, and Joy of cooking are reflected in all his creations. Now, Chef Sanchez brings those attributes, developed and enhanced by his twenty-plus years of refining his Italian recipes, to Elian’s Bistro Café, his first venture as a business owner, which he opened along with his wife, Merced, in April of 2022.
Pat eating Chef Edgar Sanchez’s Homemade Strawberry Cheesecake with almond cinnamon crusted and fresh whipped cream.
After hearing several highly complementary reviews regarding Elian’s, my usual group of Friday dining friends and I were anxious to give Elian’s a try. Outside the restaurant is a spacious off-street parking lot, providing ample parking, which is always nice. The stylish, inviting, brown brick and sparkling glass-faced restaurant, with green signage announcing American, Italian (Brunch-Lunch-Dinner), is situated on the side of a small business complex. Less than half a mile from the Parsippany border. On entry, most of the seating was filled with diners enjoying their lunch, but I made reservations, and several tables were set up and prepared to accommodate our group.
Our host and co-owner, Merced, cheerfully greeted us and ensured we were comfortably seated.
Wine bottles were uncorked (did I mention Elian’s is a BYOB), water glasses were filled, and menus quickly arrived. Between lunch and dinner, we all opted to order off the menu. Though not extensive, the menu (common for Bistros) offered a tantalizing variety of appetizers, main courses, pasta, soups, salads, sandwiches, and burgers. The Chef, who was busy in the kitchen, welcomed us to his restaurant, which is always a nice touch. After conversing with the owners during and following the meal, it was nice to see that Edgar and Merced were a beautiful couple who were immensely proud of and loved their new endeavor.
As usual, we ordered an assortment of shareable appetizers. Homemade Burrata Cheese (Orange marmalade, prosciutto di Parma, crostini, and crumbled candied pecans), Spicy Tuna Tartare (Avocado, jalapeno, sesame soy sauce, and crispy wonton), Crispy Fried Calamari (Hot Cherry Peppers, lemon, with house-made marinara sauce), and Guacamole en Molcajete (Fresh made guacamole, jalapenos, onions, lime juice, and fresh corn tortilla chips). Yes, I did say guacamole! What makes Elian’s unique is the eclectic nature of its menu. Besides gourmet-style Italian dishes and standard American fare, you will find several items particular to Chef’s homeland, including such dishes as Guacamole, Empanadas, and a Burrito Bowl (served with jasmine rice, lettuce, beans, corn Pico de Gallo, guacamole, mozzarella cheese, and homemade salsa) can be customized). Every app was fresh and delicious and quickly devoured, from the soft textured, creamy stracciatella Burrata Cheese (one of my favorites), to the light-tasting, soft tuna Calamari that was perfectly prepared and perfectly complemented by the tangy and tasty marinara sauce. Finally, the nutty flavor and smooth, creamy texture of the guacamole had that mild, sweet flavor one looks for in a well-made guacamole. I should note every dish was homemade and beautifully presented, utilizing only fresh, seasonal ingredients. The focus at Elian’s is clearly on quality, not quantity, though the portion sizes are more than adequate. Great start; every appetizer was a home run.
As we bantered with Merced while clearing our plates and as we sipped our diminishing wine, we began the challenging task of choosing our entrees. As I said earlier, the selection was not extensive, but every dish listed appeared more mouthwatering than the next.
For dinner, selections included pistachio Crusted Branzino, Pan Roasted Atlantic Salmon, Braised Beef of Short Ribs, Homemade Pappardelle Pasta, and Spicy Cajun Rigatoni, to name a few. Soups, salads, and burgers were tempting, with selections like Lobster Shrimp Bisque and Candied Pecan Pear Salad. Not an easy decision!
Braised Beef of Short Ribs (Truffle Manchego whipped potatoes and crispy onions)
For my entrée, I focused on the Braised Beef of Short Ribs (Truffle Manchego whipped potatoes and crispy onions). The short ribs were delectable, savory, moist, and juicy, and they broke apart at the touch of my fork. Absolutely exquisite dish, perfectly complimented by the Truffle Manchego cheese whipped potatoes, whose flavors were complex, earthy, and smooth. Masterfully made, well-balanced dish, equivalent to what I would expect in a high-end fine-dining restaurant.
Goat Cheese Potato Gnocchi (Italian hot sausage, petite broccoli rabe, toasted pine nuts, short ribs, and butter sauce).
Bobby A. ordered the Goat Cheese Potato Gnocchi (Italian hot sausage, petite broccoli rabe, toasted pine nuts, short ribs, and butter sauce). He loved it! The mild and lightly sweet goat cheese and flavorful sausage clearly melded perfectly with accompanying ingredients, all in a tasty and flavor-filled butter sauce.
Bucatini Pasta (Homemade veal meatballs, Chile flakes, basil, pecorino cheese, and spicy pomodoro sauce)
Mike Z. chose the Bucatini Pasta (Homemade veal meatballs, Chile flakes, basil, pecorino cheese, and spicy pomodoro sauce). The hole-centered, thick spaghetti-like pasta clearly hit the spot as all our plates were cleaned. The pomodoro sauce, thicker but smoother than marinara sauce, was perfect for the pasta. No take-home containers this day! As for Rich C., he went in a different direction with the French Dip Sandwich (Sliced New York strip steak, caramelized onions, provolone cheese, horseradish cream, and au jus). Our dining experience was completed with a Cappuccino and a complimentary, decadent dessert sent out by the Chef, his Homemade Strawberry Cheesecake with almond cinnamon crusted and fresh whipped cream. Wow, you must try this when you visit!
French Dip Sandwich (Sliced New York strip steak, caramelized onions, provolone cheese, horseradish cream, and au jus)
The consensus was that this was a delicious and satisfying meal. The service and hospitality were outstanding. Chef Edgar created magic in the kitchen. If you are looking for a nice stop for brunch, lunch, or dinner, do yourself a favor and try Elian’s Bistro Café. (The brunch menu consists of many regular fares, including eggs benedicts, bananas foster, stuffed French toast, grilled steak sandwich, El Burrito bowl, truffle egg flatbread, Mexican pork carnitas chilaquiles, among assorted other choices).
Whatever you choose, you will taste Chef Sanchez’s true passion and love of cooking in every bite. And as he says on his site, “A recipe has no soul. You, as the cook, must bring soul to the recipe.”
Hours: Weekdays, 9:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Dine In – Take Out – Delivery – Outside Dining (Weather Permitting); Off-Street Parking – Catering – Reservations Accepted.
PARSIPPANY — Over 300 youth in the Scouts BSA program participated in the annual Fishawack Klondike Derby, a team competition testing Scouting skills and knowledge. The event was held at Mt. Allamuchy Scout Reservation in Byram Township on Saturday, February 4.
Those youth compete to maneuver a Klondike sled with equipment from one town to the next around the reservation. It is somewhat reminiscent of the Gold Rush of many years in Alaska, with towns such as Nome, Barrow, Iditarod, Denali, and Juneau. At each town, the team and its captain decide how to utilize the members’ skills best to solve a problem within a certain time constraint. Each team was tested on skills including Pioneering, First Aid, Shelter Building, Orienteering, Shooting, Scout Lore, Cooking, Nature, and Flint & Steel (a.k.a. Fire Building).
The sled teams spent nine hours in brutal “Arctic blast” 1-degree to 20-degree (with -10 degree windchills) weather preparing and pulling their sleds from town to town in the competition that day.
The Scouts BSA Troop 173 (Parsippany) Junior team, under the leadership of Michael Corbett of Parsippany, placed second out of a field of 14 teams. Additionally, the Scouts BSA Troop 173 (Parsippany) Senior team, under the joint leadership of Jonah Lance of Parsippany and Nick Shatynski of Whippany, placed third out of a field of 27 teams.
Scoutmaster Dave Franz stated: “I’m really proud of our Scouts. They maintained a sense of humor and good cheer while enduring a challenging day. The leaders continued a tradition of enthusiastic preparation, resulting in high placement. They are already looking forward to next year’s competition.”
Troop 173 has served youth in the Parsippany, Hanover, Morris Plains, and Boonton areas since 1957.
PARSIPPANY — “Assemblyman Jay Webber must immediately stop using my late husband’s name to gain political points,” declared BettyLou DeCroce, a former Assemblywoman who is now running for state legislature in the new 26th legislative district (Morris and Passaic).
Assemblyman Jay Webber
“Jay’s actions are unseemly, desperate, and hurtful,” added DeCroce, whose husband Alex, a former Assembly Minority Leader, died on the floor of the Statehouse in 2012.
DeCroce said Webber has raised the name of Alex DeCroce before Republican organization gatherings and most recently on Thursday, February 9, at the Parsippany Republican club to suggest that he and the former minority leader had a shared political philosophy and strong friendship.
“Alex and Jay were never great friends, Alex did not share many of Jay’s views, and he perceived Jay as overly ambitious and untrustworthy,” said BettyLou DeCroce.
“Jay may want Republican voters to think he was close to my husband, but that’s not true. In fact, there was one huge difference between Alex and Jay. Alex went to Trenton to get things done. Jay goes to Trenton to make meaningless speeches and goes home,” said BettyLou DeCroce.
BettyLou DeCroce said her husband’s death was mourned by many Republican leaders, including Gov. Chris Christie, State Sen. Anthony Bucco, Sen. Kevin O’Toole, and Morris County Sherriff Edward Rochford and many others.
MORRIS COUNTY — Paul DeGroot of Montville has declared his candidacy for a seat on the Morris County Board of Commissioners and submitted his petition to be eligible for the Morris County Republican Committee convention on March 4, 2023.
DeGroot, a former Passaic County Prosecutor, says he is looking to bring his law enforcement credentials to county government at a time when car thefts, robberies, and home break-ins have become serious concerns for many residents.
“Thanks to the policies of New Jersey Democrats, criminals have become emboldened and are operating with little fear of being punished for their crimes,” says DeGroot. “I don’t think we can expect much help from the state, so county government will have to step up to protect our residents.”
DeGroot’s entry in the Commissioner race sets up a repeat battle between him and incumbent Commissioner Tayfun Selen, whom DeGroot defeated in last year’s Republican Primary for the right to represent the GOP in District 11 Congressional race.
“I have already shown that Commissioner Selen can be beaten and lacks commitment to core Republican values to represent our Republican Party,” said DeGroot, a lawyer in private practice.
DeGroot said Republicans cannot take the risk of Selen running in November. “New Jersey’s Democratic Party is coming after Morris County. They will pour money and manpower into the November campaign.”
“We don’t need a weak candidate who is more concerned with taking photos with Democrats than he is with standing up for conservative Republican values,” said DeGroot, referring to Selen. We need a County Commissioner candidate unafraid to take on the Democratic Party, which often bashes Republican positions on important issues such as illegal immigration.
“Commissioner Selen has little interest in working for the people of Morris County. He is more interested in propelling himself up the political ladder than fighting for conservative values,” said DeGroot, noting that Selen has gone from local office in Chatham to county office and attempted to run for Congress. During that time, said DeGroot, “Mr. Selen has amassed a totally undistinguished record.”
DeGroot said he could bring a new perspective to the commission board, including a new focus on financial issues. He noted that while Selen has been running on a stable county tax levy for the past three years, the reality is that the county budget has increased by millions. Still, the increases have been offset by growth in tax ratables – a result of new construction and property inflation. “You cannot keep increasing spending and hoping that tax ratables increase year after year to cover the costs to taxpayers. Eventually, the spending will catch up to you.”
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – February 7, 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
The Planning Board members are:
Mayor Barberio 12/31/2025 I Mayor
Anil Dadheech* 12/31/2024 IV Regular
Michael dePierro 12/31/2023 III Council Rep.
Tom Dinsmore 12/31/2021 IV Regular
Priya Jain 12/31/2022 Alternate No. 2
Dominic Mele* 12/31/2023 IV Regular
Gordon Meth* 12/31/2025 IV Regular
Nick Napolitano 12/31/2024 IV Regular
Ted Stanziale 12/31/2023 Alternate No. 1
Jennifer Vealey* 12/31/2022 II Muni, Rep.
John Von Achen* 12/31/2023 IV Regular
Stuart Wiser Board Planner, ARH
Andrew Cangiano, Engineer, GPI
Dan Lagana, Attorney, Cleary, Giacobbe, Alfieri, Jacobs
Nora O. Jolie, Board Secretary
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella held the second annual Valentine’s Day Celebration at The Village on Wednesday, February 8.
The event was jam-packed with supporters, well-wishers, residents, and business owners showing their support for the popular Councilman.
Musella was elected to Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council in 2022 and is now in his second year serving the residents of Parsippany.
Friends, relatives, dignitaries, and local business owners came to support Councilman Musella.Patrick Minutillo, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella, and Mayor James Barberio.Parsippany resident Hank Heller and Gourmet Cafe Owner Matthew PieroneMorris County Commissioner Deborah Smith and Lou ValoriFormer Council Candidate and Board of Education member Gary MartinMorris County Clerk Ann Grossi and Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Loretta GragnaniParsippany-Troy Hills Council President Loretta Gragnani and Parsippany Republican Committee Chair Delores dePierro.Morris County Commissioner Steven Shaw, Morris County Commissioner Deputy Director Christine Myers, Justin Musella and Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen.Justin Musella with local businessman Joseph BonadeoJustin Musella with Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee Secretary Raj DichpallyDanny Desai and Nicolas LimanovTown of Boonton Council Member Joseph E. Bock, Jr. and Anthony ScandariatoA special birthday celebration for Morris County Republican Club Chair Laura Ali
Residing with his wife Courtney in the Powder Hill neighborhood in town, Councilman Musella has made it his primary focus to keep Parsippany the safe, prosperous, and community-oriented township we all know and love. Ensuring local service organizations thrive, Musella has actively participated in street cleanups and food banks and has taken an active role in the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, an organization that services the most vulnerable in our community. He is also a member of Sons of Italy, Morris County Chapter.
A 2013 graduate of Emory University, Musella received his BA in Political Science and has worked exclusively in sales within the booming financial technology services industry. Bringing his own perspective on cost-effective and intuitive ways of streamlining Town Hall, Musella will help this administration keep taxes low and ensure municipal services work for all.
Also insisting on direct communication with residents, Musella has an open-inbox policy. Any resident can contact him at jmusella@parsippany.net with any questions, comments, or concerns about municipal business and can count on him to represent them until a satisfactory resolution has been made.
Musella Makes Love the Focus of Successful Valentine’s Celebration
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Morristown Police Department Chief Darnell Richardson announce that 25-year-old Imani Glover, reported missing from Morristown, has been found.
Imani Glover, of Morristown, was initially reported missing to the Morristown Police Department by her mother on January 8, 2023.
Through the extensive cooperative efforts of the Morristown Police Department, New York City Police Department, and other law enforcement agencies working with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Missing Persons Unit, Glover was located.
Prosecutor Carroll thanked our law enforcement partners for their efforts during this investigation and the public for their assistance and expressions of concern about Glover’s wellbeing.
PARSIPPANY — Mark Schlette, a scout with Scouts BSA Troop 72, attended the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council meeting on Tuesday, February 7, to earn his “Communication Badge.” Mark is a junior at Parsippany Hills High School.
To earn a communication badge, the scout can select from a list of requirements. The scout can attend a public meeting (city council, school board, debate) where several points of view are given on a single issue.
Practice active listening skills and take careful notes of each point of view. Then the scout had to prepare an objective report that included all points of view expressed and share this with their counselor.
Communication focuses on how people use messages to generate meanings within and across various contexts, cultures, channels, and media. The field of communication promotes the effective and ethical practice of human communication.
This badge is one of the many badges the scout must earn before earning Eagle Rank.
PARSIPPANY — John Hastings was among the nearly 2,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students conferred their degrees last month at the University of Iowa.
Hastings was a student in the Graduate Management Program whose program of study was the Professional MBA Program. The degree awarded was a Master of Business Administration.
Hastings and fellow graduates engaged, excelled, and stretched to reach their goals-often overcoming the obstacles created by a pandemic.
One doctoral candidate, for example, has made great research advances in her exploration of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy. A biomedical engineering student continues working to make the world a better place for heart disease patients and those in immigration limbo. And a student in communication sciences and disorders helped build from the ground up a free assistive technology consultation program for Iowa families of children with reading disabilities.
Year after year, Iowa students have pushed to achieve more and to come together for the greater good — that’s the Hawkeye Way. As the fall 2022 cohort of new graduates enter the next stage of their lives, they leave the Iowa campus full of potential and promise.
Eleven percent of the undergraduates graduated with multiple degrees, and, as a group, undergraduates posted a 3.17 cumulative grade point average during their stay in Iowa.
As a top global university, Iowa is the ideal destination for learning, discovery, and innovation. We bring art and science together to create a truly unique interdisciplinary education. With over 200 areas of study to choose from, students are encouraged to mix and match majors, minors, and certificates to earn a degree that reflects their unique interests.
From inside our world-class medical center to the most prestigious creative writing program in the U.S., students have access to quality academic support. They are equipped with the tools they need to stand out in a competitive workforce. Our 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio allows students to work directly with experts in their field while earning valuable, practical skills.
The campus seamlessly blends into the heart of downtown Iowa City, making it easy to access academic resources and belong to a larger, welcoming community. With over 500 student organizations, clubs, and communities on campus and countless in-town events scheduled throughout the year, Iowa makes it easy to build a network of friendships and connections that last a lifetime.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., announced his candidacy in a packed room at Barka Mediterranean Cuisine, Mountain Lakes, on Wednesday, February 1.
Recently Council Vice President Michael dePierro and Council President Loretta Gragnani announced they will not seek re-election. All three council members’ term ends on December 31, 2023.
Adam Kandil, Paul Carifi, Jr., and Matt McGrath
When this article was published, Carifi announced his running mates: Mr. Adam Kandil and Mr. Matt McGrath. (Watch for a complete article coming shortly)
There is very strong talk that other candidates will be joining in the Primary, but none have officially announced. Parsippany Focus will keep you informed if other candidates join in. The primary will be held on Tuesday, June 6.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Cavaliere, Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling, and Nicolas Limanov were among the many guests who came to support Paul in his re-election campaign.Paul DeGroot and Morris County Commissioner Steven ShawParsippany-Troy Hills Township Cpimcil President Loretta Gragnani and Parsippany-Troy Hills Captain Thomas Carney.Morris County Commissioner Deborah Smith with Jack M. Ciattarelli.Rob Zwigard, Ted Stanziale, and Former Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce were among the guests at the fundraiser for Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr.The large crowd supported Paul Carifi, Jr.’s re-election bid for Township Council.The Tricore Construction GroupAdam Kandil and Rockaway Borough Police Chief Conrad PeppermanAhmed Kandil, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Board of Education member Alison Cogan, Paul DeGroot, Paul Carifi, Jr, and Adam Kandil
Paul Carifi, Jr. was selected in September 2011 by the Republican Committee to fill an unexpired term on the township council. He was elected by the residents of Parsippany that same year. Paul has been a resident of Parsippany for over 50 years and is the proud father of twin boys. He graduated from the Parsippany School system, having attended Eastlake Elementary School, Brooklawn Junior High School, and Parsippany Hills High School class of 1984. Paul received a Bachelor of Arts from East Stroudsburg University in Sociology / Criminal Justice and is also a graduate of the New Jersey Chief of Police West Point Leadership and Command Program as well as the New Jersey Certified Public Managers Program.
Paul had a career in law enforcement of over 25 years with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office serving the citizens of Morris County, where he served as the S.E.R.T. Commander for over 24 years. He received numerous Sheriff Achievement, Meritorious Service, Honorable Service, and Exceptional Duty awards. He is a parishioner at St. Christopher’s Church and a member of The Parsippany Republican Committee, The Parsippany Republican Club, and the Sons of Italy. Paul also volunteers his time to many local organizations.
MORRIS COUNTY — The League of Women Voters of the Morristown Area is hosting a frank discussion on the subject of Reparations on Monday, February 13, at 7:00 p.m. at the Morris County Library, 30 East Hanover Avenue, Whippany. The program is co-sponsored by the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice, the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Morristown Alumnae Chapter, and Black Lives Matter Morristown.
Jean-Pierre Brutus
Jean-Pierre Brutus, New Jersey Institute for Social Justice, will help us navigate the mis- and dis- information associated with the word “reparations” and what it means for New Jersey. Along with over 30 partners, including LWVNJ, the Institute launched the Say the Word: Reparations campaign to get pending legislation (A938/S386) passed to establish a state Reparations Task Force in New Jersey.
The campaign is entitled “Say the Word” to focus attention specifically on the legacy of slavery in New Jersey, which has been called the “slave state of the North.”
The task force would allow esteemed experts throughout the state to study the history of slavery in New Jersey and its aftermath and provide strategic policy recommendations for reparative justice.
Assatta Mann, League of Women Voters of New Jersey, will moderate.
Jean-Pierre Brutus is a senior counsel in the Economic Justice Program at the NJ Institute for Social Justice. He leads the Institute’s reparations and housing advocacy. Before joining the Institute, Jean-Pierre worked at Legal Services NYC, representing indigent Bronx tenants facing eviction. Jean-Pierre is a graduate of Georgetown University. He earned his Ph.D. in African American Studies and JD from Northwestern University.
Assatta Mann is a Community Organizer for the League of Women Voters of NJ. She focuses on mobilizing League members, volunteers, and community partners around an organizing strategy that builds lasting power to secure legislative and policy wins. A lifelong resident of the city of Passaic, Assatta earned a degree in Political Science from Rutgers University – Newark. Before joining the League, Assatta worked on electoral campaigns where she focused on forming powerful coalitions between grassroots community organizations and turning out key voting constituencies.
Free and open to the public. For more information, click here.
PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, January 29 at 11:15 p.m. Mr. Josephlus Debblay, 39, was traveling southbound on Littleton Road, passing Dartford Road.
Ms. Giuseppin, 50, was traveling north on Littleton Road, passing Halsey Road, and had trouble negotiating the curve of the roadway.
Debblay’s vehicle, a 2018 Honda Civic, departed the travel lane and entered Giuseppin’s lane of travel, striking his 2009 Toyota Camry.
Mr. Debblay was transported to Morristown Medical Center. Both vehicles were towed from the scene by Powdermill Towing.
No summons was issued at the time of the incident.
The crash was investigated by Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Steven Harvey who determined the was caused by Ms. Giuseppin’s failure to keep right and unsafe speed.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills School District has implemented an exciting Senior Internship Program, which allows senior students to participate in an off-site in-depth learning experience during the last five weeks of the school year.
This year one hundred students between Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School will report directly to internship sites from May 15 to June 16 and work a minimum of twenty hours per week.
The program’s goal is for students to fully explore career interests, connect with local mentors and gain invaluable work experience. More information about the program can be found by clicking here.
PTHSD actively seeks local businesses and individuals willing to mentor our students and provide them with shadowing opportunities. Internship mentors serve as role models, trainers, and advisors for our students, which can be an incredibly rewarding experience both personally and professionally. Our outstanding seniors are interested in pursuing careers and connecting with professionals in all areas of arts and entertainment, business, computer science, construction, cybersecurity, education, engineering, healthcare, health sciences, hospitality, information technology, media, product design, and manufacturing, public service, real estate, travel and tourism, and more. An FAQ document for internship mentors can be found by clicking here.
If you work for a local business and are interested in learning more about Parsippany’s Senior Internship Program, please complete this questionnaire or feel free to reach out to program coordinators – Chrissy Russell (CRussell@pthsd.net) and Liz O’Boyle (EOBoyle@pthsd.net).
PARSIPPANY — Alberto Vega, a graduate of Parsippany High School, has completed an extensive Policy Analyst Fellowship with the legislative office of Assemblywoman Aura Dunn. Assemblywoman Dunn’s office is in Chester, serving the constituents of Legislative District 25 in New Jersey. Vega is also a Graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Alberto is a first-generation college student and a quiet young man. Alberto cut through the noisy political world, proving that making a difference in public office is about doing the hard work of compassion. Alberto worked diligently to contribute to the enhancement of operations and, ultimately, the services provided to the 230,000 residents of the district.
Alberto released the following statement about his time with Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn:
“I started interning for Assemblywoman Aura Dunn in October, and I have learned a tremendous amount in the past few months. This experience has given me a glimpse of what a future government career looks like.
One interesting part of my job was researching the various important subjects that concern the 25 legislative districts. I also enjoyed assisting the Assemblywoman and her staff by gathering news articles that were relevant to the district. Another responsibility I had included the opportunity to draft commemorative citations for well-deserving citizens in the area.
The longer I worked as an intern, the deeper my understanding of the district’s needs grew. At this point, I have memorized every municipality in the district.
This internship has given me months of valuable experience that will only help further my plans for a career in either the public or private sectors. I want to thank Assemblywoman Aura Dunn for giving me this opportunity. I am truly grateful for my time in her office.
I look forward to applying all that I learned in the District Office in my future.”
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany High School FTC (First Tech Challenge) team “Redbots” has made it to the state-level competition after a successful performance in the regional competition on Saturday, February 4.
The Redbots
The team was awarded the “Design Award” and was named a Finalist Alliance Award recipient, highlighting their hard work and dedication to building a strong robot game.
Throughout the year, the “Redbots” team has been committed to promoting STEM education and awareness through various outreach initiatives and mentoring of a local FLL (FIRST Lego League) team. The team’s passion for STEM is evident in their commitment to their craft, and they are now seeking support from the community to continue their efforts.
Donations to the “Redbots” FTC team are tax-deductible and can be made through their 501(c)(3) setup.
Checks can be made payable to “PHS Redbots Supporters” and mailed to 24 Midvale Avenue, Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07054. The EIN# for tax deductions is #82-5416292.
In addition to seeking support, the “Redbots” team is also looking to recruit new members for the upcoming season. It encourages graduating middle and high school students to consider joining the club. This is a great opportunity for young students to pursue their passions for STEM/Robotics and be part of a team dedicated to promoting STEM education and awareness.
The Parsippany High School FTC team “Redbots.”
The Parsippany High School FTC team “Redbots” should be congratulated on their outstanding performance at the recent competition. The team’s commitment to promoting STEM education and their passion for their craft is truly inspiring, and we wish them the best of luck as they move forward in the competition.
The highlight of the evening was RLVFC Chief Russ Greueter presenting the “Firefighter of the Year” honors to Capt. Josh Lefferts of Rainbow Lakes. From the podium, Chief Greueter discussed the outstanding dedication, motivation, and service Josh demonstrated over the past year.
To earn a communication badge, the scout can select from a list of requirements. The scout can attend a public meeting (city council, school board, debate) where several points of view are given on a single issue.
