Parsippany Focus Magazine - August 2025 by Zoomus Marketing, LLC

Queen Kiera Wittig and King Callum Munn

Cassandra Cogan completes Master’s Degree in prestigious EMGS Program

Cassandra Cogan, a distinguished alumna of Parsippany High School (Class of 2019) and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Class of 2023), recently defended her Master’s Thesis at Roskilde University in Denmark.

This concluded her participation in the “European Master’s in Global Studies” (EMGS) program, which she began in 2023. Cassandra secured a fully funded Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) scholarship, which is financed by the European Union and awarded annually to the most competitive and gifted students worldwide.

Cassandra was one of only two Americans in her cohort, alongside peers from Germany, Bangladesh,

Lebanon, Azerbaijan, and many other countries around the globe.

Cassandra began the EMGS program at Wrocław University in Poland, where she took specialized courses in international security and gender studies.

She then moved to Denmark, where she has spent her second and final program year at Roskilde University, conducting research and taking specialized courses in discourse analysis.

Her Master’s Thesis investigated the construction of gendered narratives of violence and security in scripted television, examining how these narratives reflect hegemonic discourses on gender and politics in

global security. Cassandra earned top marks for her thesis and defense at Roskilde University. Her research has already been accepted for participation and presentation at the “Popular Culture and World Politics” Conference, taking place this upcoming November in Lisbon, Portugal, which focuses on the intersection between political violence and popular culture.

Cassandra finished her studies in June of this year, completing her “European Master’s in Global Studies” degree, as well as an additional “Master of Science in Social Sciences” degree from Roskilde University. She plans to remain abroad and aspires to pursue a PhD related to her research interests shortly.

From Parsippany to Denmark—Cassandra Cogan’s academic journey blooms with success.

Serving 56,162 Households of Parsippany-Troy Hills

August 2025

Publisher Frank L. Cahill

Photographer Nicolas Limanov

Contributing Writers

Christine Mercado Anikait Sota

Distribution Manager Luis A. Matos

Design and Layout

Zoomus Marketing, LLC

90 East Halsey Road, Suite 304

Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 (973) 559-6000

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About Parsippany Focus

Parsippany Focus was founded on October 1, 1989 by Publisher Frank Cahill. Parsippany Focus is the only dedicated news source, publishing local news and information for over thirty-five years exclusively for Parsippany-Troy Hills.

Parsippany Focus Magazine is published monthly by Zoomus Marketing, LLC, 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 304, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054

No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any for m without prior written permission of the publisher.

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August Cover Story

Mt. Tabor Celebrates 156th Annual Children’s Day

The 156th Annual Mt. Tabor Children’s Day Celebration featured the crowning of King Callum Munn and Queen Kiera Wittig, dazzling decorations under the theme “Tabor Goes Disco!”, spirited parades, athletic events, musical performances, and community traditions—all celebrating Mt. Tabor’s history, youth, and unwavering neighborhood pride throughout the fun-filled weekend.

Story appears on pages 18 and 19.

3 Cassandra Cogan completes Master’s Degree - Cassandra Cogan, Parsippany High School Class of 2019, completed her Maste33 r’s in Global Studies through the prestigious Erasmus Mundus program, earning top honors and preparing to present her research in Portugal.

Message from Mayor James Barberio - August in Parsippany celebrates summer’s final stretch with concerts, farmers markets, outdoor fun, and community spirit—encouraging residents to relax, reconnect, and enjoy all the town has to offer.

8 Message from Acting Superintendent - Dr. Denis Mulroony highlights the district’s evolving approach to literacy, emphasizing student choice, book clubs, and high-interest senior seminars to foster lifelong reading habits and deeper engagement with literature.

14 Parsippany Welcomes Urban Air - Urban Air officially opened its doors in Parsippany on Saturday, August 2, bringing a state-of-the-art indoor family entertainment experience to Westmount-Arlington Plaza. Attractions include a Sky Rider zip line, climbing walls, ropes course, bumper cars, and more. Franchise owner Ari H. Moses and CEO Michael Karlewicz were joined by Mayor James Barberio, Council members, and local business leaders for the ribbon-cutting. Urban Air is expected to boost the local economy while offering fun for all ages.

Rose House Named Beneficiary of 5th Annual Charity Golf Classic - Rose House, a Parsippany nonprofit supporting individuals with special needs, was named a beneficiary of the 5th Annual Tri-State CRE Charity Golf Classic, raising $2,500 to help fund inclusive housing and support services.

Book Review - Julia Digeronimo reviews Yerba Buena by Nina Lacour, a queer love story told through alternating perspectives. While she appreciated the slow-burn romance and complex characters, she found Emilie frustrating and some plot elements unrealistic. Despite its flaws, she enjoyed the novel overall and recommends it to readers.

25 Shy Corgi Pup “Linguine” Searching for Loving Home - Linguine, a five-month-old Pembroke Welsh Corgi, was rescued from a puppy mill and is now in search of a quiet, loving home through WISE Animal Rescue. This shy pup is learning to trust, enjoys exploring, and does well with other pets. He’s ready to thrive with patient, compassionate adopters.

28 Grilled Veggie Platter - This Grilled Veggie Platter features zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and mushrooms marinated in olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection. Serve warm or at room temperature with fresh herbs and lemon.

A Vacation is having nothing to do and all day to do it in –

Robert Orben

August is a month that feels like a warm exhale, it’s the last golden stretch of summer before the pace of life quickens again. It’s a month that beautifully balances the final joys of summer with the anticipation of a new season ahead. As we enter August, I find myself reflecting on how quickly the summer season seems to pass. I hope you will continue to enjoy the warmth of the seasonwhether it’s a family picnic in one of our beautiful parks, attending one of our evening concerts, or a staycation at home. Some of the best memories we carry with us through life are those of vacations we have taken. Whether we spend them traveling to distant places or simply relaxing at home those moments in time leave indelible marks on us. For many families, August is that time of year for

vacation and travel – a last chance to recharge before the start of a new school year. Whether you are heading out of town or planning to stay right here at home, I hope you’re finding the time to rest, reflect and reconnect with loved ones.

Our Thursday summer movie and concert series has been a tremendous success so far, once again bringing residents together for evenings filled with music, laughter and a strong sense of community. If you haven’t yet attended, I encourage you to join us for the remaining performances this month. There’s something special about sharing a summer night under the stars with neighbors, family and great energy.

The concert series is

not the only incentive bringing us all together. Our Friday Farmer’s Market, has become a culinary afternoon delight. The market continues to thrive, offering fresh, local produce from hardworking farmers. It’s more than just a place to shop-it’s a weekly gathering that celebrates local growers and encourages healthy, clean living. I invite you all to stop by and meet the various vendors and enjoy the community spirit it fosters.

This month is the perfect time to take advantage of our beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. Whether you’re enjoying a walk with your family, playing catch in an open field, or relaxing with a book under a tree, our parks are here for everyone and every age. A big

thank-you to our Parks and Forestry Department for keeping them clean, safe, and welcoming all summer long.

Of course, we all know the back-to-school season is just around the corner, which makes this last month of summer all the more precious to enjoy. So, let’s make the most of these final summer days-enjoy the music, shop local, explore the outdoors, and soak up the sun while you can. Let’s continue to celebrate all that makes living in Parsippany so wonderful. Thank you for being part of what makes our community so special!

Mayor James R. Barberio

James R. Barberio

Summer Reading Sparks Passion and Purpose Across Parsippany Schools

I don’t know about you, but one of the best parts about summer is the chance to catch up on my reading. Every June, just as school is getting out, I gather all of the books I’ve been collecting and borrowing throughout the school year; then, over the course of the next two months, I voraciously attack that ample stack of novels on a daily basis. Hidden under an umbrella at the beach, sitting on our deck, lounging on my couch, petting my dog Griff…I bring a book wherever I go and whatever I’m doing. So far, I’ve read Nemesis by Phillip Roth (for our new senior class, Authors of New Jersey), The House of Kennedy by James Patterson (it was an inside job people), The Long Walk by Stephen King (the movie is coming out in September), and South of Broad by Pat Conroy (one of my all-time favorite authors). I just started The Brief and Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Juno Diaz (another NJ author) and have books lined up by two of my favorite current authors: Matthew Haig and Frederick Backman. It’s going to be a great summer.

As a former English teacher and current Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, I place reading and literacy at a high premium. From kindergarten to senior year, it is incumbent on educators to teach students first how to read and then how to read better. Using small group instruction, one-to-one sessions, class novels, leveled readers, etc…we instruct students on decoding, vocabulary development, comprehension, fluency, and critical thinking, increasing the rigor along the way... We approach reading from so many angles, giving students time to read independently in school, having teachers read stories to students in class, facilitating reading groups, and encouraging students to read at home each week. Our goal is for students to have the skills and strategies to be able to tackle and understand

texts in educational, practical and recreational settings.

In a traditional sense, students have always had choice at the elementary and middle school levels, making frequent trips to the school Media Center and taking advantage of their teacher’s classroom library. Choice is important, and we want students to know the different types of books out there, how to select a book with an appropriate reading level, and where to find books that they will love. At these pre-teen ages, so many students love reading, have favorite authors, and read for enjoyment. Unfortunately, when students get to high school, recreational reading takes a hit.

We see it all the time, grades start to count, the college clock is ticking, time management becomes a challenge, and cell phones serve as a constant destruction, I mean distraction. And in so many ways, schools can be their own worst enemies in the quest to get students to read. Curricula can be stale or overloaded, filled with older novels that might not be relevant or interesting to today’s teenagers. Instruction can become teacher-centered, forcing students into a passive role. And choice frequently goes out the window as the class novel becomes the centerpiece of instruction. Students are told what to read, when and how much to read, and sometimes what to think.

(Continued on Page 10)

Dr. Denis Mulroony, Acting Superintendent Of Schools

Summer Reading Sparks Passion and Purpose Across Parsippany Schools

(Continued from Page 8)

Four years ago, when we hired Sarah Townsend to be our Supervisor for 6-12 Language Arts and Media, we began to have conversations on this very topic. After doing some research, checking out other districts and getting feedback from teachers, our initial answer was book clubs. Book clubs are when students are given a choice of a few novels and then meet periodically with classmates to discuss the book they selected and share their opinions and insight. While there is still teacher oversight, these groups have agency over their pacing and discussions. Most importantly, students get to choose the book they want to read. As we initiated this process, Mrs. Townsend arranged professional development for her English department, working with teachers on how to set up their book clubs, ways to monitor the students and looking at goals for the initiative. Next, we began to have discussions with our teachers and media specialists about what books would be the most engaging, relevant and rewarding for today’s teenagers. This was where the fun came in. We began reading tons of books and selecting the best ones for each grade level.

Three years later, our teachers are crushing it with their book clubs, facilitating them multiple times throughout the year, sharing best practices with each other and gathering valuable feedback from students. As a result, we’ve added and eliminated novels and fine-tuned the exercise in the process. Most important, the students have been really enjoying themselves and are reading with much more enthusiasm. Reports of students reading extra books based on feedback from their classmates and looking for other works by favorite authors have become much more commonplace.

Encouraged by the book clubs, Mrs. Townsend had another idea: Senior Seminar classes as opposed to traditional “Senior English.”

After surveying students, researching titles and planning with teachers, we were able to pinpoint a few high interest genres. Now, instead of a traditional English 4 class, seniors sign up for two semester courses out of the following: Horror, True Crime, Fantasy and Fairy Tales, Mythology, Literature of the Psyche (honors) and Authors of New Jersey (honors). Ultimately, the same skills and standards are covered, but they are accomplished via a genre of high interest for the students. Needless to say, the feedback has been very

positive.

By giving students choice and providing titles that serve as mirrors to themselves and windows to the perspectives of others, we’ve had improved buy-in, more sincere reading and increased enthusiasm about books and literature. As our seniors move onto college after twelve years in Parsippany, we’re confident that they have the skills and strategies to comprehend and interpret various types of texts, a broader perspective on what is out there in our world and maybe, just maybe, they’ll grow into adults who want to relax with a good book every once in a while.

Thanks for reading. (See what I did there?)

Dr. Denis Mulroony, Acting Superintendent Of Schools

Shobika Prabhu Named to Dean’s List at Georgia Tech

Shobika Prabhu has been named to the Dean’s List at the Georgia Institute of Technology for the Spring 2025 semester. This prestigious recognition is awarded to undergraduate students who achieve a 3.0 or higher academic average for the term.

Shobika is a proud graduate of Mountain Lakes High School, Class of 2023.

s Georgia Tech, one of the nation’s top public research universities, is dedicated to developing leaders who advance technology and improve the human condition.

With over 53,000 students representing 54 U.S. states and territories and more than 146 countries, Georgia Tech offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degrees across business, computing, design, engineering, liberal arts, and sciences.

Students learn at the university’s main campus in Atlanta, as well as at instructional sites worldwide and through online learning.

Georgia Tech also conducts over $1 billion in research annually, making it a key driver of economic development throughout Georgia, the Southeast, and beyond.

Shobika Prabhu

Fun and Prizes at Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills Tricky Tray!

A full house gathered at the Parsippany PAL on July 15 for the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills’ highly anticipated Tricky Tray event. The evening was a resounding success, with every seat filled and the community coming together in support and celebration. The efforts of the dedicated club members were evident throughout the night, culminating in a special moment when the caller confirmed that every table had at least one winner.

Urban Air Adventure Park Celebrates Grand Opening

Urban Air Adventure Park officially opened its doors on Saturday, August 2, bringing a world-class indoor family entertainment experience to the heart of Parsippany.

Located in the WestmountArlington Plaza at 808 Route 46, this new venue offers a variety of exciting attractions and promises to be a go-to destination for fun-seekers of all ages.

Franchise owner Ari H. Moses and Urban Air CEO Michael Karlewicz was joined by Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilman Matt McGraft, Econonic Develoment Chairman Frank Cahill, Member Raj Dichpally and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member Nicolas Limanov and families as he cut the ribbon on what is now the newest Urban Air location in the nation.

“We’re excited to celebrate our long-awaited upcoming grand opening of Urban Air Adventure Park with the Parsippany-Troy Hills community,” Moses said. “We’ve worked hard to bring a safe, fun, and super exciting family entertainment center with incredible attractions for the entire family. Get ready, Parsippany!”

Urban Air Adventure Park features high-energy attractions such as Sky Rider indoor zip line, climbing walls, a ropes course, Laser Tag, and

Spin/Flip Zone bumper cars. The facility is also equipped to host unforgettable birthday parties, corporate events, church outings, and group celebrations.

Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee, praised the addition to the community. “Urban Air is exactly the kind of innovative, familyfocused business Parsippany welcomes. It brings not only entertainment but also jobs, foot traffic to the shopping center, and new energy to our local economy. We’re thrilled to have Urban Air join our vibrant business community.”

The vibrant interior of Urban Air Adventure Park in

Parsippany features stateof-the-art attractions like climbing walls, a ropes course, trampolines, and bumper cars—offering non-stop fun for adventurers of all ages. Urban Air Adventure Park has been nationally recognized as one of the top indoor entertainment destinations, with over 200 locations across the U.S. Each location offers a variety of attractions tailored to inspire active play and create memorable family experiences.

Urban Air Adventure Park in Parsippany is open seven days a week. To learn more about tickets, birthday party packages, or upcoming promotions, visit www. UrbanAirParks.com.

Indoor and Outdoor Pools

Birthday Pool Parties

Jacuzzi / Cedar Sauna

Swim Lessons

Personal Trainers

Cardio Machines

Fitness Center and more.....

199 Smith Rd. Parsippany, NJ

Rose House Named Beneficiary of 5th Annual Tri-State CRE Charity Golf Classic

Rose House, a Parsippany-based nonprofit dedicated to creating forever homes for individuals with special needs, was recently named a beneficiary of the 5th Annual Tri-State CRE Charity Golf Classic. The event, held at Knoll Country Club West in Parsippany, brought together 120 golfers and raised $2,500 in support of the organization’s mission.

The annual golf outing is organized by a team of commercial real estate (CRE) professionals committed to giving back to the community. In

addition to Rose House, proceeds from this year’s event also supported Winslow Therapeutic Center, which co-organized the tournament, and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Research at Weill Cornell Medicine.

At Rose House’s Hanover Community Residence in Cedar Knolls, members of the real estate community gathered to celebrate the donation. Pictured (back row, left to right) are Josh Simon, Vice President at EBI Consulting; Tom Mitchell, CEO of Rose House; and George Gnad, President of

Lenders Capital Realty Services. They are joined by Rose House residents Rachel and Billy.

Rose House is a nonprofit organization that provides customized, self-directed programs to individuals with special needs across Morris County.

With a mission to build inclusive communities and provide loving homes, Rose House continues to make dreams a reality. For more information, visit www. therosehouse.org.

Josh Simon, Vice President at EBI Consulting; Tom Mitchell, CEO of Rose House; and George Gnad, President of Lenders Capital Realty Services

Mt. Tabor Celebrates 156th Annual Children’s Day

The 156th Annual Mt. Tabor Children’s Day Celebration commenced in grand fashion on Friday, August 1, as Mayor James Barberio had the honor of presenting the ceremonial Keys to the City to the newly crowned King Callum Munn and Queen Kiera Wittig. This symbolic gesture, part of the evening’s coronation in the Tabernacle, kicked off a weekend filled with tradition, community spirit, and joyful festivities.

The coronation was followed by the Children’s Day Show, a cherished tradition showcasing the talented youth of Mt. Tabor through music, dance, and entertainment. From there, the celebration continued with the Royal Event at the Mt. Tabor Country Club, where residents entering grades 7–12, recent graduates, and guests enjoyed an evening honoring the Royal Court, which also includes Attendants Virgil McCann and Hunter Keller.

King Callum Munn and Queen Kiera Wittig beam with pride after being crowned during the 156th Annual Mt. Tabor Children’s Day Celebration. Their coronation in the historic Tabernacle marked the start of a weekend rich in tradition and community spirit. As reigning royalty, they were the stars of the Evening Parade, waving to crowds and representing the heart and pride of Mt. Tabor.

This year’s theme, “Tabor Goes Disco!” brought a vibrant, retro flair to the festivities. Streets were adorned with dazzling decorations as households competed in themed house decorating contests, while

children took to the roads and fields for bicycle and float parades, races, and athletic events.

The weekend began on Thursday, July 31, with the Howard & Mim Bell Memorial Races, a colorful one-mile “Fun Run,” and a challenging 5K race at the athletic fields. Friday’s events culminated in the coronation and community show, setting the tone for Saturday’s full slate of activities.

Saturday morning opened with a flag-raising ceremony led by Mt. Tabor Girl Scouts and the playing of the national anthem by Zafiyah and Zainab Diakite. The Ron Dickerson Memorial 21-gun salute, led by Jeff Dickerson, paid tribute to those who served.

Athletic events took place throughout the day, alongside a Children’s Art Show at Trinity Park and House to House collections.

Attendant Virgil McCann, Queen Kiera Wittig, King Callum Munn, and Attendant Hunter Keller proudly stand together following their coronation at the 156th Annual Mt. Tabor Children’s Day Celebration.

with Community, Tradition, and Royal Honors

The day concluded with the beloved Evening Parade and the Margaret F. Francis X. Wentworth Sr. Memorial Concert at the Country Club, featuring Mark Rivera & Friends and a fireworks finale lighting up the Mt. Tabor skies.

The Mt. Tabor Children’s Day Association, supported by countless volunteers and local sponsors, orchestrated a weekend to remember. Committees worked tirelessly to bring together a variety of activities including the Pancake Breakfast, Bake Sale, Golf Outing, and carnival-style Midway filled with food trucks, amusements, and games. Families gathered along the decorated streets to cheer on parade floats and support young athletes during competitions. The community’s dedication to preserving this cherished tradition was evident at every turn. From artistic displays and themed costumes to musical performances and heartfelt speeches, the event reflected the values and camaraderie that define Mt. Tabor year after year.

Sunday concluded the weekend with a community Worship Service at the Tabernacle and a final opportunity to tour the Mt. Tabor Museum, which hosted extended open hours throughout the weekend.

Founded in 1869 as a Methodist camp meeting ground, Mt. Tabor has preserved its historic charm and strong community bonds. This year’s celebration continued its legacy of honoring tradition while welcoming the next generation into its story.

Mayor Barberio reflected on the importance of the event: “I am honored, as always, to be invited to join these amazing festivities.

Mt. Tabor is truly such a unique neighborhood, and the sense of community here is heartwarming. Enjoy the celebration!”

Members of the Mt. Tabor Volunteer Fire Department proudly participate in the 156th Annual Children’s Day Parade, continuing a longstanding tradition of community service and celebration. With smiles and spirit, they pulled a historic hose cart marked “2” through the streets, receiving cheers and appreciation from residents lining the parade route.

This year’s theme, “Tabor Goes Disco!” brought energy and sparkle to Mt. Tabor as residents embraced the retro spirit with dazzling decorations. Households competed in themed decorating contests, while children lit up the streets with colorful floats, bike parades, and athletic competitions, capturing the vibrant heart of the 156th Annual Children’s Day Celebration.

MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER of Parsippany

4 Century Dr Parsippany, NJ

What is Making Strides Against Breast Cancer?

American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® is a celebration of courage and hope, a movement uniting communities to end breast cancer as we know it, for everyone Over the past two decades, our 3- to 5-mile noncompetitive walks have collectively grown into the nation’s largest and most impactful breast cancer movement –providing a supportive community for courageous breast cancer survivors and metastatic breast cancer thrivers, caregivers, and families alike Making Strides funds lifesaving breast cancer research and is committed to advancing health equity through essential programs and services, believing that all people should have a fair and just opportunity to live a longer, healthier life free from breast cancer.

Join our volunteer committee

Become a corporate partner for our event HOW TO GET INVOLVED:

Donate to our cause and help us end breast cancer as we know it

Spread the word about our event!

Being involved in Making Strides Against Breast Cancer provides the opportunity to help us save lives from breast cancer

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Parsippany NJ - 2024 Impact

6,000 Participants

Over $521,000 raised in the fight against breast cancer

260 registered teams

300 survivors

Yerba Buena by Nina Lacour

By Julia Digeronimo

I picked up this queer book as one of my reads during pride month. I skimmed the back, but went into the book mostly blind.

The book is split between two characters and two completely different plots that only intertwine sporadically. The book begins with Sara’s point of view, and I instantly liked her character. The author set up a complicated background for her that sucked me in quickly.

When we switched to the second point of view, Emilie, I quickly found myself less interested. I found Emilie extremely frustrating and sometimes annoying. As I kept reading, I became frustrated that we kept getting Emilie’s less interesting perspective instead of Sara’s.

Switching between points of view is difficult because readers are always going to prefer one character over the other. While sometimes that contrast helps the story, I found it difficult to read Emilie’s point of view.

While the book had some flaws, I really enjoyed the queer love story. Lacour wrote Emilie and Sara getting together very slowly and methodically. It wasn’t rushed or unrealistic. I

enjoyed watching them get to know each other.

By the third quarter of the book, I felt like I knew everything about Emilie, while I was only getting bits and pieces of Sara. This bothered me because Sara’s storyline felt more important than Emilie’s. Most of Emilie’s chapters were filled with her making stupid and selfish decisions.

It seemed like Lacour was trying to tell Sara’s story through Emilie’s point of view, but instead it just felt like we were missing lots of information.

When you start the book, you know that Sara runs away, but for some reason, Lacour skips almost all of Sara’s early years as she’s getting herself figured out post-runaway. Because of those plots that she skips, it feels like Sara has her life so easily figured out.

A lot of the plot elements felt unrealistic. It sort of felt like Lacour was writing about experiences she didn’t understand, which led to a lot of the plots feeling unrealistic. For example, Sara runs away from home and, in a matter of years, has established herself as a famous bartender. This felt rushed and improbable since she ran away at 16 with no money or plan.

Lacour tried to write in a sophisticated literary style that didn’t work for the story. She’d throw in sentence fragments randomly into a paragraph, and while I can understand what she was trying to do and mimic from other authors, it didn’t work.

I don’t know if Lacour was trying to juxtapose Emilie and Sara, but Sara’s storyline made Emilie’s seem immature and childish. Throughout the whole book, I found myself constantly debating whether I was enjoying the book. I think I found Emilie so frustrating that it distracted me from the other aspects of the book.

Overall, I enjoyed the book and would recommend it. However, I wouldn’t recommend it.

Mayor’s Action Center

Mayor James R. Barberio

What The Mayor’s Action Center Does For You (973) 263-4262

Listens: The Mayor’s Action Center welcomes any request for service or information. No matter what the problem or question, every effort is made to give a prompt response. Please use GovPilot to report a concern, the concern can be reported at any time via online form or through the Gov-Pilot App.

Records: All requests for service, received through the Mayor’s Action Center, are automatically logged-in to ensure that every request is on file and can be easily retrieved. Requests are forwarded to the appropriate department and the requester will be updated along the process.

Resolves: The Mayor’s Action Center attempts to address residents’ concerns in a timely manner. Every request for action is tracked from inception to completion. Upon completion, residents will receive notice that the issue or complaint was addressed.

Examples of

Requests:

Repairing of potholes; Drainage problems; Requests for signs; Litter; Icy road conditions; Illegal dumping; Housing maintenance problems; Animal control and removal; Street lighting; Curb repair;

A-10 Track and Field Crown for Former Parsippany High Athlete

Parsippany High alumnus and Class of 2023 graduate Joziah Johnson continues to make headlines at the collegiate level, delivering a standout performance at the Atlantic 10 (A-10) Conference Track & Field Championships held May 3–4, 2025, in Fairfax, Virginia.

Now a sophomore at George Mason University, Johnson entered the championships as the defending A-10 champion in the 400-meter hurdles. He faced an early challenge in the preliminary round, clipping the fourth hurdle and falling behind. But the seasoned competitor rallied with determination, reclaiming the lead and finishing first in his heat with a time of 52.09 seconds, securing the top seed heading into the finals.

Joziah is going over the hurdle

The finals, held on May 4, proved to be a high-stakes showdown—not just against top conference rivals, but also two of his teammates vying for the title. Johnson, choosing to run in lane 5—the same lane in which he claimed victory the year before—delivered a performance to remember. With a new personal best of 51.10 seconds, he surged ahead of the field to defend his title, becoming a two-time A-10 champion in the 400-meter hurdles.

His time secured the gold and propelled him up the George Mason University record books, moving from #9 to #5 all-time. The performance also earned him a spot in the upcoming NCAA Division I East Regionals in

Jacksonville, Florida.

Johnson didn’t stop there. He also ran a crucial leg of George Mason’s 4×400 meter relay team, contributing to a victory that ultimately clinched the men’s team conference championship—the university’s first since 2019. George Mason edged out the University of Rhode Island in a tightly contested meet by just 1.5 points.

Joziah Johnson continues to make the Par-High community proud with his drive, talent, and leadership.

All eyes now turn to Jacksonville, where he’ll look to continue his incredible season on the national stage.

A five-month-old Pembroke Welsh Corgi named Linguine is quietly capturing hearts through WISE Animal Rescue. This volunteer-run nonprofit works tirelessly to save vulnerable dogs across New Jersey, including right here in Parsippany.

Linguine is a small male pup born on March 8, rescued from the harsh conditions of a puppy mill where he was deemed unwanted. WISE, which

recently partnered with an advocacy group to intercept dogs like Linguine before they’re destroyed, is now working to find him a home that matches his gentle spirit.

This shy yet sweet puppy is steadily learning what it means to “be a dog.” He’s not yet into toys but delights in chewing on bully sticks and exploring the yard with his confident canine foster sibling. While he’s still unsure of new experiences, he’s making slow and steady progress every day.

“Linguine would do best in a quieter home,” said a volunteer from WISE. “He doesn’t need a big house—just a calm, loving space where he can relax and feel safe.”

The organization emphasizes that Linguine’s ideal home would include a confident dog buddy

and patient humans who can help him blossom. He’s great with other dogs, cats, and kids aged 10 and up. He prefers the comfort of his crate, where he sleeps quietly through the night, and he’s already showing success with potty training— both indoors and outside.

The rescue’s standard adoption program asks for a minimum donation of $850 to help cover the care not just for Linguine, but for all animals in their program. “The donation supports the overall mission,” a WISE representative explained. “Whether it goes toward medical treatment, behavioral training, or food and shelter, every dollar helps.”

WISE is able to provide veterinary and behavioral services to dogs like Linguine thanks to its partnerships with local animal hospitals and clinics that support their mission.

“Dogs like Linguine are often tossed aside simply for not being ‘perfect’ enough to sell,” the rescue shared. “Our job is to show them they’re more than enough.”

For Parsippany families ready to offer a second chance to a deserving dog, Linguine may be the quiet companion they’ve been waiting for.

Interested adopters can visit www.WiseAnimalRescue.org to complete an application and learn more.

Linguine, a five-month-old Pembroke Welsh Corgi, is searching for a calm and patient forever home after being rescued from a puppy mill. (Photo courtesy of WISE Animal Rescue)

Grilled Veggie Platter

Ingredients:

•2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ½-inch rounds or long strips

•2 bell peppers (any color), cut into wide strips

•1 medium eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds

•8 oz whole cremini or button mushrooms, stems trimmed

•¼ cup olive oil

•2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional)

•2 cloves garlic, minced

•1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

•Salt and black pepper to taste

•Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

•Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade:

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if using), garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Vegetables:

Place all cut vegetables in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over them and toss to coat evenly. Let sit for at least 20–30 minutes (or refrigerate for up to 2 hours).

Preheat the Grill:

Heat grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the Vegetables:

Place vegetables directly on the grill or use a grill basket.

Grill 3–4 minutes per side, or until tender and nicely charred. Mushrooms and peppers may take a bit longer; flip occasionally for even cooking.

Assemble the Platter:

Arrange grilled vegetables on a large platter. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve Warm or at Room Temperature:

Great as a side dish, part of a picnic, or over grains like quinoa or couscous for a light meal.

Parsippany Chamber to Host “Juice Up Your Morning” Networking

The Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce will host its next Juice Up Your Morning Networking Event on Monday, August 26, at 8:30 a.m. at the Chamber’s office, located at 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 322.

Designed to foster direct and productive business connections, the event is open to professionals looking to expand their network, promote their services, and engage with fellow local entrepreneurs. Juice Up Your Morning is 100% focused on networking — no distractions, just results.

This month’s featured Host Spotlight will showcase Morris Plains GEICO, giving attendees the opportunity to learn more about their local insurance offerings and how they support the community.

In addition, every participant is given a one-minute opportunity to introduce themselves and their business to the group.

“Our goal is to help professionals make strong connections and increase local visibility,” said Frank Cahill, Executive Board Member. “It’s an easy and effective way to grow your network.”

Advance registration is required. Attendees are encouraged to bring plenty of business cards. For more information or to register, visit www. parsippanychamber.org.

Connor Johannesen Named to Dean’s List at Youngstown State

Connor Johannesen, a Business Administration major and graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, Class of 2023, has been named to the Dean’s List at Youngstown State University for the Spring 2025 semester.

Dean’s List recognition is awarded to full-time undergraduate students who have achieved a minimum 3.4 grade point average while completing at least 12 semester hours.

At Parsippany Hills High School, Johannesen was a standout varsity football player, excelling as a defensive end and occasionally contributing on the offensive line. He earned

Submit your pictures for August 2022 to news@parsippanyfocus.com

Submit your pictures for upcoming issues. news@parsippanyfocus.com

numerous accolades, including first-team All-Sussex/Morris County (defensive line) and first-team all-conference honors, and led the team in sacks during both his junior and senior seasons.

Youngstown State University, located between Cleveland and Pittsburgh in the heart of the Tech Belt, is a comprehensive urban research institution serving more than 11,500 students. With over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, YSU emphasizes academic excellence, public service, and student success. The 145-acre campus features state-of-the-art labs, modern classrooms, on-campus housing,

and nationally recognized recreational facilities. For more information, visit www.ysu.edu.

Connor Johannesen

Why Street Trees are Important

By Dover Kohl, Street Trees, Town Planning Stuff, esp.10 (YouTube)

Edited by Janice McCarthy, Parsippany Environmental Advisory Committee

One detail that makes a huge difference in public spaces is the Street Tree. Landscape architect Henry Arnold once said 50% of urban design is street trees.

On a tree lined street if you look up, the tree canopy forms the ceiling of our shared public room. It’s been said that a street without street trees is like a building without a roof. Line them up along a path or street and something magical happens. Besides providing shade for our walks and bike rides, trees are a deliberate intervention and ordering of the public space, a kind of geometric statement.

Trees never fail to make a place where more people want to be, but street trees don’t just make places more beautiful and lend order. Trees impact our lives in many ways. For example, in urban environments that absorb more heat than rural areas trees can lower the heat island effect by as much as 3° to 7°F.

Trees make our cities and towns more economically prosperous. Two identical houses in otherwise similar neighborhoods will have wildly different values if one is on a tree lined street and

the other isn’t.

In summer trees shade the buildings that lower cooling costs by as much as 35%, while cutting glare and leaving a delightful pattern of dappled light on our streets. In winter trees lose their leaves to let light in to warm the sidewalks and buildings, while flowering trees with autumn leaves put on spectacular annual shows drawing us to these places.

More importantly, trees hold stormwater that control water levels to prevent surges during heavy downpours. They clean up pollution. Trees sponge up carbon dioxide(CO2), a key greenhouse gas tied to global warming and convert those gases and make oxygen that cleans the air we breathe. A mature tree absorbs roughly 48 pounds of CO2 per year. Over its lifetime, a single tree

can absorb around a ton of CO2. Cut down a tree and the stored carbon dioxide that a tree absorbed is released into the air and we breathe that stuff.

Another important benefit of street trees is that they keep us safer by calming traffic. Planting trees along streets narrows the roadway visually which encourages drivers to slow down.

As you can see trees are not just a decorative frill. Something to be cut indiscriminately. Trees are mission critical equipment, making for good resilient cities and towns and a key necessity for effective town planning. Cities and Towns that have effective tree management are not just more aesthetically pleasing, they are much more economically efficient.

Applebee’s® Celebrates 21 Years of Fighting Childhood Cancer

Applebee’s® kicked off its annual fundraiser for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding pediatric cancer research and family support programs. In celebration of its 21-year partnership with ALSF, now through August 31, Applebee’s will donate 50¢ from the sale of every NEW Strawberry Lemon Sunshine sold in a restaurant to ALSF. Additionally, Applebee’s restaurants nationwide will transform into “Lemonade Stands” and invite guests and neighbors to join in the fight to end childhood cancer. Applebee’s is located at 1057 Route 46, Parsippany.

Since the partnership first began in 2005, Applebee’s has raised more than $18 million for ALSF, funding 360,000 hours of pediatric cancer research for scientists to search for more cures for all kids with cancer.

“We’re honored to celebrate 21 years of partnership with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and to have raised more than $18 million to fund lifesaving pediatric cancer research,” said John Peyton, Applebee’s president and Dine Brands CEO. “At Applebee’s, we take Doin’ Good in the Neighborhood to heart and together with our franchisees and guests, look forward to raising more than ever this year!”

This year, guests can join Applebee’s to support ALSF’s Childhood Cancer Heroes in their fight through the following ways:

Add $1, $5, $10, or $20 Digital Lemons to their cart when

ordering on Applebees.com or the Applebee’s mobile app. Enjoy a refreshing NEW Strawberry Lemon Sunshine when dining in a restaurant – from which 50¢ will be donated to ALSF.

Click the “Donate Now” button to contribute when purchasing an Applebee’s Gift Card on Applebees.com.

Head to your local Applebee’s to learn more ways your local restaurant may be participating!

“Applebee’s is one of ALSF’s most dedicated partners, raising money in neighborhoods across the country since 2005,” said Liz Scott, Alex’s mom and Co-Executive Director of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. “Applebee’s prominence and national reach have helped introduce countless people over the years to ALSF and raised more than $18 million in the fight against childhood cancer. We are truly grateful for their continued partnership to help find cures and support families during their child’s treatment and beyond.”

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) emerged from the front yard lemonade stand of 4-year-old Alexandra “Alex” Scott, who was fighting cancer and wanted to raise money to find cures for all children with cancer. By the time Alex passed away at the age of 8, she had raised $1 million. Since then, the Foundation bearing her name has evolved into a worldwide fundraising movement and the largest independent childhood cancer charity in the U.S. ALSF is a leader in funding pediatric research projects across the globe and providing programs to families affected by childhood cancer. For more information, visit AlexsLemonade.org.