Parsippany Focus Magazine - July 2020

July 2020

A Road for Sgt. Derek McConnell

ALL YOUR NEEDS MET IN ONE OFFICE! General Dentists and Specialists all under one roof!

For half a century now, Rauchberg Dental Group has been providing patients in the Parsippany area with the quality, comprehensive approach to oral health care they deserve.

We understand the importance of family, as well as the value of your family’s unique smiles.

Our warm, inviting practice features the latest in dental technology, and our dedicated team of multiple specialists uniquely positions our office as a one-stop-shop for all your dental needs. From check-ups and cleanings to orthodontics and dental implants – we do it all!

Cosmetic Dentistry, Gum Treatment, Implants, Root Canals, Teeth Whitening, Crown and Bridge, Oral Surgery and Orthodontics

199 Baldwin Road, Suite 120, Parsippany, NJ 07054

(973) 457-4511 www.rauchberg.com 2 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

LLC

#13VH10136700

General maintenance, patio & wall hardscaping, landscaping commercial & residential

862-812-7888 call today or visit us at www.jandjlandscapeservices.com July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 3

July 2020

Serving 53,515 Households of Parsippany-Troy Hills

A Road for Sergeant McConnell | Cover, 6

July 2020

This Fourth of July, I was honored to join Gold Star Mother Siobhan Fuller-McConnell to dedicate Adelphia Road

www.ParsippanyFocus.news Frank L. Cahill, Publisher Barbara Freda, Sales Manager Nicolas Limanov, Photographer Brian Lanigan, Contributing Writer Christine Mercado, Contributing Writer Sharon Maroldi, Contributing Writer Luis A. Matos, Distribution Manager

280 Graduate from Parsippany Hills High School | 7 Principal Dr. Matthew Thompson announced the graduates of 280 students for the Class of 2020.

Goddard School 12th Annual Pre-K Graduation | 8

Design and Layout Zoomus Marketing, LLC 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 338 Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 (862) 295-1300

The Goddard School, 311 Smith Road, recently held their 12th Annual Pre-K Graduation Ceremony.

Celebrating our Parsippany 2020 Graduates | 10

Member of

There’s nothing like honoring high school graduates on their own school grounds.

230 Graduate from Parsippany High School | 16

Principal Dr. Denis Mulroony announced the graduates of 230 students for the Class of 2020.

PACC Awards Scholarships | 13 Kiwanis Club Donates $1,500 ShopRite Gift Cards to Families In Need | 23 Tobi Matthews joins SCG Advertising + Public Relations | 25 Parsippany PAL Saves 150 Lives with Blood Drive | 26

MORRIS COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Summertime Strawberry Sangria | 28 About Parsippany Focus Parsippany Focus was founded on October 1, 1989 by Publisher Frank Cahill. Parsippany Focus is the only dedicated newsource, publishing local news and information for the past thirty years exclusively for Parsippany-Troy Hills.

Parsippany Focus Magazine is published monthly by Zoomus Marketing, LLC, 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 338, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 (c) 2020 Zoomus Marketing, LLC. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of the publisher.

4 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

Brianne Partington Participates in VALE Music Group | 29 Clean Communities: Keeping Parsippany Clean | 30 Andrew Kertesz Named to RIT Dean’s List for Spring Semester | 31

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

THE PERFECT HARMONY OF SMOOTH AND CONFIDENT.

YOUR FIRST WAX IS FREE* DON’T HESITATE. YOUR FIRST WAX IS ON US.

DENVILLE | 973 586 3900 PARSIPPANY | 973 352 0505 July 2020

WAXCENTER.COM I europeanwax *First-time guests only. Valid only for select services. Additional terms may apply. Participation may vary; please visit waxcenter.com for general terms and conditions. © 2020 EWC Franchise, LLC. All rights reserved. European Wax Center and the other identified marks are trademarks of EWC P&T, LLC.

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 5

A Road for Sergeant McConnell “This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.”

-Elmer Davis

Mayor Michael A. Soriano The Fourth of July is one of our most sacred holidays as Americans. It commemorates the moment when our collection of British colonies declared our independence, and our intent to be a self-governing nation, guided by liberty, and justice for all.

his right arm. He suffered a skull fracture, jaw fractures, traumatic brain injury, and many internal injuries. The U.S. Military presented Derek with the Bronze Star Medal with Valor Device, the military’s fourth highest decoration for valor.

Indeed, our independence had to be nurtured, and as we’ve all seen so often, it must be defended, because it is truly worth fighting for. So many have sacrificed to protect our life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness.

Derek spent two months recovering at Walter Reed Hospital in Bethesda, MD. After 7 months and 30 surgeries, he was released. But on March 18, 2013, Derek passed away from complications of his wounds.

This Fourth of July, I was honored to join Gold Star Mother Siobhan Fuller-McConnell to dedicate Adelphia Road in honor of her fallen son, Sergeant Derek McConnell of the US Army, whose life was cut short after serving our country in battle. Our Township was proud to commemorate his ultimate sacrifice to our country by honoring his name and his legacy.

The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is seeking to recognize residents who were wartime veterans through the dedication of municipal roads by adding the names of local veterans to public street signs. We took great pride and honor in dedicating and recognizing Derek’s service as a Sergeant in the United States Army by adding his name to Adelphia Road. We hope this small contribution will serve as a reminder that like Sergeant McConnell, so many brave veterans have given everything to preserve our American independence.

Derek was born in 1989, the second of five children. He graduated from West Essex High School in North Caldwell in 2008, and moved to Parsippany the following year.

In January 2010, Derek enlisted in the US Army, and was deployed to Afghanistan in March 2011. On July 23, Derek was on a dismounted patrol when he and his fellow soldiers found themselves in a field of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). Derek stepped on one, which reportedly knocked him down. But he got up and, in an attempt to rescue a fellow soldier, was wounded by a second IED. Derek lost both legs and the use of 6 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

I hope you will take a moment to stroll by Adelphia Road, and reflect on the incredible sacrifice Sergeant McConnell and so many of our service members have given to protect our great nation.

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

CLASS OF 2020

280 Graduate from Parsippany Hills High School

Principal Dr. Matthew Thompson announced the graduates of 280 students for the Class of 2020.

Nathan H. Abraham, Alyssa F. Ackerman, Dylan Douglas Acree, Kikiola Jinikun Zoe Adeyanju, Amber Afzal, Jeremy Christopher Aguesseau, Miriam Aguirre, Aminah Ahmed, Briana Alonzo, Brandon Nicholas Amelio, Nirgunkumar Yogendrabhai Amin Cavin Anbuselvam, Jorge Eduardo Andrade, Maria Camila Arenas Toro, Destynee Angeliz Arroyo, Sheethal A. Ayalasomayajula, Sabrina A. Aydin, Ami Babulal Babaria, Sellasy Ama Badasu, Alysha Isabel Bailey, Rohan Balani, Jessica Ann Baldassari, Sara Rose Baldassari, Gabriela Banayotti, Lark G. Bancairen, Devansh Pintukumar Barot, Madhav M. Barot, Jasmine Darshana Basra, Matthew Joseph Batroney, Esha Baxi, Robert Bednarczyk, Christopher R. Bellows, Caroline Elizabeth Berardo, Rajan Bhanderi, Arohi Rajesh Birari, Jaden R. Blanke, Jacob Franklin Borrillo, Mackenzie Grace Bosland, Evan R. Bota, Gerald D. Breslauer, Brian A. Brisson, Anthony P. Bromberg, Sara M. Brotons, Valerie Burke, Christian Angelo V. Camero, Alicia M. Campbell, Javier Alfonso Cardoza-Vasquez, Douglas R. Carter, Aeleen Carvalho, Natalie Castellana, Yacek Castillo, Samantha Catalini, Jami Michelle Cerrato, Jessica Danielle Cerrato, Emily Chan, Vidisha Rajeshkumar Chauhan, July 2020

Bhavana Chembilli, Angela Chen, Henry Mingrui Chen, Jasmine W. Cheng, Anthony Aiman Ciccotelli, Kaitlin Taylor Cirillo, Angelina Lynn Cofone, Zaria Mikele Coleman, Edward John Comerford, Anthony Josue Contreras, Soliel Audrey Cooper, Alan Patrick Copeland, Ryan M. Cornine, Christian Correa, Jillian Hanna Crain, Janelle Deanna Creo, Samuel James D’Uva, Sai Harshitha Dalli, Ishani H. DavÊ, Malay Pravin Dave, Devon John Davidek, Brian Alexander Davies, Brianna Alexa Davies, Calder Raymon Frey Davis, Tyler Scott Dean, Aarushi Deo, Isha Desai, Shiv Desai, Keya Shardul Dhruve, Antonina Nicole Di Maggio, William C. Elvin, Rafaella Ilyana Trimanez Espinosa, Peter A. Fajardo, Maxwell Jayden Falk,Sera Cristin Ferrante, Michael Anthony Fiorentino, Kevin Anthony Floris, Jack Patrick Garbarino, Jose Garcia, Lauren E. Geiger, Abigail Mary George,Disharee Ghosh Dastidar, David Giraldo, Willie Michael Glover,Sandra Jackson Graham, Ruthwick Reddy Guddeti,Danielle Olivia Hardy, Kristopher James Hawkins, Rachel M. Hewitt, Scarlette A. Horvath, Isaac Hu, Meera lyer, Aaryan Dev Jamwal, Saoumyaa Jatkar, Christian Miguel Johnson, Micaela A. Juarez, Benjamin Max Jurow, Corey David Katzenberger, Rableen Kaur Sabrina Kaur, Ryan Michael Kempf, Arsalan Khawar, Fawad Khuja, Eunice Yeeun Kim, Hyun-Jung

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 7

SCHOOL NEWS

Goddard School 12th Annual Pre-K The Goddard School, 311 Smith Road, recently held their 12th Annual Pre-K Graduation Ceremony. Due ro COVID-19, things were different.

“This year they held a “drive-in” graduation ceremony in the parking lot of the Hyatt House Hotel, 299 Smith Road, next to our school. The families emained in their cars and they called each child out to receive their diploma

The Goddard School uses the most current, academically endorsed methods to ensure that children have fun while learning the skills they need for long-term success in school and in life.

Our talented teachers also collaborate with parents to nurture children into respectful, confident and joyful learners.

33 students graduated Pre-K and will be starting Kindergarten in September. The graduates included: Zayne Soliman, Jack Kelleher, Akshaj Ranjan, Heili Patel, Varun Aiely, Alicia Pethe, Mayukh Bangali, Ryan Cooper, Shrihan Deshpande, Veer Vishnoi, Cove Vosburg, Sharvil Ardak, Charlotte Macri, and Mason Salinas.

Also Shiva Gonnabhaktula, Pratheeksha Gopalakrishnan, Chase Kawula, Ishwa Joshi, Ivan Joshi, Viren Mane, Srinika Janardhanan, Nimar Mathoda Singh, Vinaykrishna Prabaharan, Elias Coe, Karam Moughrabi, Alexis Averett, Heyan Mekala, Ridhima Gadiraju, Swara Patel, Anvika Chimote, Luke Scovill, Agastya Sunkari and Preston Rey.

Akshaj Ranjan 8 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

Alexis Averett

Chase Kawula www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

SCHOOL NEWS

Graduation Ceremony

Luke Scovill

Heili Patel

Preston Rey

Karam Moughrabi July 2020

Vinaykrishna Prabaharan www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 9

A Message From the Superintendent

Celebrating our Parsippany 2020 Graduates Dr. Barbara Sargent There’s nothing like honoring high school graduates on their own school grounds. While we weren’t able to hold a traditional ceremony in June, both high schools prepared a beautiful pre-recorded virtual ceremony that will certainly be a memorable keepsake for our families. These graduation ceremonies, as well as other celebrations and inductions, may be found on each high school’s website.

Our fingers are crossed to be able to honor the full “Class of 2020” in July on each high school’s home field. We believe that restrictions will lift significantly by that time and our students will be able to gather together before they venture off on different paths. I’d like to offer the opening remarks I provided for the pre-recorded ceremony for your reflection.

“Welcome to our families, our faculty, Board of Education members, and our outstanding students. I am honored to take part in your ceremony today. Typically, I would address my remarks to the students. It is, after all, their day and their ceremony and they deserve the attention. I would, however, like to start by talking to parents first.

Parents, it’s been quite a three months for you, but quite an 18 years and more for you. During these past many years, you have worked so hard to raise these fabulous high school seniors. You’ve cared for them, set boundaries for them, and kept them safe. I know these last three months have been a lot and has really, probably like me, tried your patience, tried your best humor, and, yet, you’ve done it.

And you’ve had the luxury of having your children under your constant attention for the past three months. I wonder if your house looks like mine. I wonder if you are having to take your own advice – a lot! Advice like, “This, too, shall pass.” Or, “It won’t always be like this.” And, I’m realizing that it’s so much easier to give advice than to take it. That’s the hard part. You’ve done that. You’ve been really solid and dependable for your families and kept everyone safe, and so for that, knowing what a hard job that is, Thank You! Students, at last year’s graduation, my speech focused on how to behave when things don’t go your way – because things won’t go your way a lot. Although, at that point, I was talking more about little disappointments, like a job opportunity that doesn’t come your way, or a promotion 10 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

that you had been hoping for. I wasn’t necessarily thinking about missing the last and best quarter of your school year, missing your prom, missing a chance to say goodbye to the teachers you’ve admired all these years, missing final exams. Well, maybe not that. It has been a lot, though.

What I want to say to you as you leave our schools is really Part II of that. How do you behave when big things don’t go your way. How do you prepare yourself for a life that will have many, many joys and disappointments, as well. I’m thinking of the work of author James Clear who wrote in his book Atomic Habits that routines become your habits, and your habits really help to define the goals you set in life. If we think of what’s been happening this year, I know from speaking with many of you that you have talked about setting routines for yourself. Many of you get up at about the same time every day – maybe a little later than when school is in session – but about the same time. You work on schoolwork for a few hours, take time to go outside, find time to talk with friends. There’s a routine to your day, and I would suggest that this is a really healthy habit, because a routine that is focused on school work and academics with some break time built in really leads to positive study habits that lead to making goals that set a path toward success.

Many of you said that working out has continued to be important for you. If you’re setting a routine of healthy eating, getting outside, and doing something that’s physically active every day, that becomes a really healthy habit that then helps you to achieve a goal of maintaining an active lifestyle into your 20’s and 30’s and 40’s, which I’m sure seems so very distant to you right now.

Think about the routines that you’re setting for yourself now, that you will continue to set for yourself as you move beyond high school. Those routines become habits and those habits will help you to accomplish the goals that you know of – and the goals that haven’t defined themselves yet for you.

And so, seniors, graduates, my message to you is that you find routines that will keep you healthy and set you on a path of good health, accomplishment, and camaraderie. We will come through this – and you’ll want to be ready. We need you to be ready because better days are ahead.

Congratulations, be safe, and be kind with each other.

I know you’ll make us proud.

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 11

SCHOOL NEWS

Danielle Taylor Named to Dean’s List The University of Rhode Island is pleased to announce that Danielle Nicole Taylor was named to the Spring 2020 Dean’s List. The students represent nearly all of Rhode Island’s cities and towns, all six New England states, New York and New Jersey, and many other states and countries.

quality point average. Part-time students qualify with the accumulation of 12 or more credits for letter grades earning at least a 3.30 quality point average.

Danielle Taylor is a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School Class of 2016.

To be included on the Dean’s List, full-time students must have completed 12 or more credits for letter grades during a semester and achieved at least a 3.30

Interested in Advertising Call (862) 295-1300

Danielle Taylor at her Graduation from Parsippany Hills High School, June 2016, with Board Member Judy Mayer

1236 Route 46 West, Parsippany - (973) 917-3850 o RefillRx Mobile App o Vaccinations o Automatic Refills o Immunizations o Medicare Part D Consulting o Vitamins o Prescription Refills o Free Local Delivery o Assisted Living Facilities o Prescription Shipping o Patient Resources Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; Sunday Closed

12 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

CLASS OF 2020

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Awards Scholarships The Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce awarded two scholarships to graduating seniors.

TYLER WYKA Tyler Wyka, a 2020 graduate of Parsippany High School, is planning on attending George Washington or Hofstra University.

During his high school years, he worked hard to earn “A” averages in his honors and AP courses while participating in as many extracurricular as he could, taking time with clubs to try and better the community. He was a 12 season athlete, Captain of the swim team, Drum major of the marching band, and Officer in Kiwanis Key Club. Tyler had unforgettable experiences and countless good memories that have taught me the value of hard work, being a leader, and being kind.

Tyler plans to study mechanical engineering (Continued on Page 14)

Tyler Wyka

Serious cases demand a serious law firm!

Personal Injury Law

MARK J. SEMERARO, ESQ. Attorney at Law

Employment Law

• Auto Accidents • Slip and Fall • Construction Site Accidents • Products Liability • Dog Bites

• Wrongful Termination • Hostile Work Environment • Whistle Blower • Discrimination • Harassment

90 East Halsey Rd., Ste. 385 • Parsippany, NJ 07054

Call Today! (973) 585-6254 www.NorthJerseyAttorneys.com

July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 13

CLASS OF 2020

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Awards Scholarships (Continued from Page 13)

and to find organizations that he can continue to grow his intrapersonal, and leadership skills, as well as add to his service background.

Tyler was a member of: sNational Honor Society – Inducted for leadership, and scholastic skills as well as his academic integrity, character, and community service sFrench Honor Society – (11th grade) Traveled to elementary schools to teach kids french through activities sScholar of the Month- Awarded for academic achievement in history and electives my freshman and junior year sAttended Hugh O’ Brian Youth Leadership Seminar – A result of a recommendation from school staff, and the generosity of the PTA; strengthened leadership skills and performed community service. sAttended New Jersey Boys State – Elected to positions of Mayor and later County Supervisor.

Worked with friends to win the Best County Award at the end of the week. Nominated for the Gordon Vreeland Award. sShopRite STARS Leadership recipient – Recognized for excellence in leadership during the fall. sJunior Awards – Awarded leadership awards from both Clarkson University and Wells College.

MORGAN MARRON Morgan Marron, a 2020 graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, is planning on attending TCNJ, Rider University, or Monmouth University and will be majoring in business.

At Parsippany Hills High School she was the president of two clubs, highly active and a board member of many others. She was an honor roll member, a dedicated person, and lastly a motivated student who consistently grew. She constantly showed growth and development over her four years and utilized 14 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

Morgan Marron

her skills to help those around her.

Since she was a sophomore and continuing through her senior year she volunteers with Morris County Relay for Life, an event that raises funds for cancer research, groundbreaking trials, and cancer support. She held fundraisers all year long in combination with hosting the event. She was able to raise over $109,000 in her junior year when the event returned to Parsippany and was held at Parsippany Hills High School.

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce is a service organization for businesses, merchants, residents and volunteers that provides education, information and networking opportunities to the Parsippany area.

For more information call (973) 402-4200 or visit www.parsippanychamber.org

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

SCHOOL NEWS

280 Graduate from Parsippany Hills High School

(Continued from Page 7)

Kim, Sobina S. Kim, Aleksandra Kolesnikova, Abigail Aradhna Kunde, Nicholas Y. Kuo, Alina S. Kuriakose, Justin Y. Lai, Meghan GraceLalo, Richard Paul Landy, Kevin B. Le, Ethan Lee, Connor Ross Leming, Divine Lemon, Jason C. Levy, Nicholas Andrew Levytsky, Anton Leyzerov, Angelina Patrice Licor, Danielle Marie Lipuma, Amy Yuxin Liu, Tina Lan Liu, Andrew James Loesch, Kimberly O. Love, John M. Malenchak, Elliot Joseph Mann, Sarah J. Manning, Peri Logan Manoff, Cynthia Elizabeth Marrero, Morgan Elizabeth Marron, Stephanie Nicole Martinez, Christopher Fulgar Matias, Nathaniel R. May, Tanishq Meka, Anthony B. Memoli, Dylan Paul Mendes, Vaishnavi P. Menon, Christopher S. Meumann, Sean Michels, Alexes Orion Miranda, Kavin M. Mistry, Carolyn R. Modin, Kelsey Erin Mogan, Luigi Montanari, Christopher Orlando Montoya, Andrew William Morales, Justin Morales, Emily Elizabeth Moutis, Gianna M. Musto, Devesh R. Naik, Peter Francis Nardi, Gabriel J. Nazziola, Brandon Ng, Steven Nguyen, Wasay Noor Kaitlyn M. Ostolaza, Janet Pan, Mann H. Pandya, William Parente, Aarnav Manish Patel, Bijal Patel July 2020

Darsh N. Patel, Dhruv A. Patel, Disha Rajesh Patel, Greepan P. Patel, Harsh Dhiraj Patel, Jay K. Patel Jaysheel Himanshu Patel, Kishan Patel, Nilay Bhaveshkumar Patel, Riya D. Patel, Riyank Patel, Rushit A. Patel, Shaili T. Patel, Anthony James Paterno, Hernando Pelaez, Debra Rachel Perlmutter, Brandon D. Perot, Joseph Phan, Stephanie M. Pielak-Van Teyens, Mora Anne Pochettino, Andrea Potesta-Oliva, Neyha M. Ramani, Nirali U. Rana, Christopher J. Rapp, Shoumik Vaddi Reddy, Tuga Adel Ridha, Angel Jose Rodriguez, Elijah Moises Rodriguez, Elysabeth May Rodriguez, Nicholas Roepke, Katherine A. Rogers, Anthony Joseph Rubinetti, Nicholas Joseph Russo, Austin Patrick Ruth, Usman A. Saeed, Carmela A. Sanchez, German Santana, Nicholas Santana, Tamanna Sarkar, Jade Schroeder, Kimberly Anne Scott, Falit Sehgal, John Henry Serino, Samantha Rae Serino, Darshil Shah, Isha Shah, Krish K. Shah, Sharanam Shah, Vidhi Bhoomit Shah, Vraj A. Shah Hiba Shahid, Aidan Patrick Shanley-Steele, Hunter William Shanley-Steele, Nikita Sharma, Bicky Singh Jagjit Singh, Preya Singh, Suveer Singh, Aman P. Sinojia, Colin G. Smith, Anna Sostak, Stefani

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Continued on Page 15) Parsippany Focus Magazine l 15

CLASS OF 2020

230 Graduate from Parsippany High School

Principal Dr. Denis Mulroony announced the graduates of 230 students for the Class of 2020.

Kristine Yang, Shiv D. Patel, Caitlin Crooker, Sydney Reich, Chelsea Aboagye, Nana Agyemang, Christopher Aleksandric, Kenjiro Andrada, Randall Arauz Flores, Rohan Arun, Jaclyn Azarow,Dawson Bacayo, Mario Barrera Cruz, Aniajh Bermudez, Kyle Bifano, Alexandra Bond, Luqmaan Bouzaitoun, Yoosuf Bouzaitoun, Bethany Brodock, Ashley Brown, Haley Brown, Nicholas Bruno, Davin Budich, Alexis Cajas, Katherine Castano-Villar, Jose Manuel Castellano, Domonic Cattani, Alexandra Cerasiello, Lourdes Chacon, Eric Chao,Sophia Chas, Melanie Chimborazo, Mira Chothani, Sabrina Chou, Vincent Colantoni, Anthony Colasuonno, Timothy Coppinger, Ryan Crooker, Lathan Cukrow, Elijah Darby, Andrew Davanzo, Sabreen Dawud, Dominick De Intinis, Matthew DeCrescenzo, Sophia Delli Bovi, Stacy Deristin, Shivani Desai, Rylan DeSalvo, Jenna Wear,Anabelen Delgado, Erica Desanguine, Sean Deuer, Connor Devens, Xavier Diaz, Jordan Dorsey, Oliver Dowling, Nancy Duong, Wiktoria Dzon, Michelle Ebel, Zachary Ellicott, Ahmed Elsaid, Mara Estrict, Daniela Falcone, Nina Falivene,Kaitlyn Fang, John Fania, Maryam Farag, Shari Finchler, 16 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

Victoria Freire, Kyle Furfaro, Alyssa Gallagher, Suraj Garah, Gabriella Gennarelli, Tabitha Gessling, Kaitlyn Glodzik, Elizabeth Golderer, Britney Gomez Clavijo, Matthew Gonzalez, Jillian Goveas, Devin Granda, Angelo Grippo, Daniel Guzman, Danielle Haeussler, Alex Hao, Ali Hassan, Evan He, Stephanie Hill, Hannah Hoeler, Mariam Hosseini, Jared Hurta, Shawna Ignacz, Toni Ilic, Aereana Jamna, Jozef Jankovic, Olivia Johnson, Smeet Joshi, Mikaela Kadian, Aneesh Kakirde, Jaic Kattappurath, Christopher Keifer, Neil Khare, Krista Kiwior, Joshua Knowle, Bon Jean Koo, Aaron Kreitman, Yash Kriplani, Daniel Kuo, Imani Labady, Anthony LaPresti, Maryurie Leal Barahona, Brett Leech, Ian Lenahan, Carolina Leon, Kyle Lepore, Jordana Levine, Kevin Li, Fernando Lopez Ramirez, Daniel Lupo, Joseph Lynch, Tanesha Lyons, Aqif Mahmudi, Eshika Malgari, Yousof Mamoor, Rikki Marlowe, Shahzod Mashrabi, Yasmeen Masoud, Rani Mody, Saif Mohamed, Faith Mostillo, Emma Navarro, Nalani Navarro, Abinav Nayini, Riya Nayini, Joshua Nelson, AnthonyNewman, Maya Ng’oche, Michelle Nguyen, Jia Lin Ni, Dominique Ober, Ryan Olcott, Eduard Orellana, Pamela Marie

www.parsippanyfocus.news

(Continued on Page 18) July 2020

DEDICATION

Dedication of Adelphia Road in Memory of Sergeant Derek McConnell Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano dedicated Adelphia Road in Lake Parsippany, on Saturday, July 4, in Memory of Sergeant Derek Tra McConnell.

“I was honored to join Gold Star Mother Siobhan Fuller-McConnell to dedicate Adelphia Road in honor of her fallen son, Sergeant Derek McConnell of the US Army, whose life was cut short after serving our country in battle.

Our Township was proud to commemorate his ultimate sacrifice to our country by honoring his name and his legacy,” said Mayor Michael Soriano.

Council President Michael dePierro said “Parsippany street dedication for Army (Continued on Page 19)

July 2020

Dedication of Adelphia Road in Memory of Sergeant Derek McConnell

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 17

CLASS OF 2020

230 Graduate from Parsippany High School (Continued from Page 16)

Paguntalan, Michele Pantaleo, Anuj Patel, Aryan Patel, Dev Patel, Henilkumar Patel, Janki Patel, Jay Patel, Prathi Patel, Riddhi Patel, Rital Patel, Sahaj L. Patel, Sahaj J. Patel, Shiv Patel, Shyam Patel, Vidhi Patel, Yash Patel, Zill Patel, Katricia Penus, Katelyn Phillips, Alex Picinich, Eric Polo, Radhika Pradhan, Shuba Prasadh, Jason Punskovsky, Krishant Putrevu, Katherine Quinn, Joshua Quizon, Ashley Radler, Shayan Rahmatullah, Christopher Rainero, David Ramirez, Wuendis RamirezSandoval, Kimberly Ramos, Emily Rattacasa, Zakariya Rehman, Adrian Reyes, Isabel Reyes, Alexander Rianhard, Joseph Riedinger, Anthony Rillo, Nadia Rodrigues, Muhammad Sadiq, Gabriella Sanchez, Nicholas Santangelo, Amogh Sarangdhar, Saeed Sarkhot, Riya Sawant, Jarrod Schwed, Kershaun Sedefoglu, Anish Shah, Anjali Shah, Sri Hari Shankar, Farah Sheira, Karen Shih, Anindita Singh, Vikramjeet Singh, Julia Sklow, Sarah Smith, Matthew Sonzogni, Matthew Strano, Joseph Stull, (Continued on Page 20)

Parsippany High School Dr. Denis Mulroony addressing the graduates

RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA

973-299-8282 2 LARGE CHEESE PIZZAS

$19

95

Plus Tax

1442 Route 46 West, Parsippany

BUY ONE GET ONE

50 OFF %

Buy 1 dinner at regular price and get 50% off next dinner of equal or lesser value

BUY ONE GET ONE

50% OFF

Buy 1 sub at regular price and get 50% off next dinner of equal or lesser value

Anthony Francos - Parsippany

Anthony Francos - Parsippany

Anthony Francos - Parsippany

ANY LARGE SPECIALTY PIZZAS

$5 OFF

$10 OFF

With this coupon. Not to be combined with other offers Expires September 30, 2020

$14

95

Plus Tax

Anthony Francos - Parsippany With this coupon. Not to be combined with other offers Expires September 30, 2020

With this coupon. Not to be combined with other offers Expires September 30, 2020

ANY PURCHASE OF $30 OR MORE Anthony Francos - Parsippany With this coupon. Not to be combined with other offers Expires September 30, 2020

With this coupon. Not to be combined with other offers Expires September 30, 2020

ANY CATERING ORDER $50 OR MORE Anthony Francos - Parsippany With this coupon. Not to be combined with other offers Expires September 30, 2020

FREE DELIVERY: to all parts of Parsippany/Mt. Lakes (Call for other areas) 18 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

www.parsippanyfocus.news

June 2020

DEDICATION

Dedication of Adelphia Road in Memory of Sergeant Derek McConnell (Continued from Page 17)

Sergeant Derek McConnell on July 4, 2020.

Derek McConnell was a true Hero. It was my honor to be there with Siobhan Mary and her family while Parsippany paid tribute to her son.”

Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill said “It was an honor to be in Parsippany for the dedication of Adelphia Road for fallen hero Sergeant Derek McConnell with his family. Derek represents the best values of our nation — Dedication to country, service to others, and love for his family. We have an obligation to remember Derek’s commitment to our nation and to do better for all our service members injured while defending our freedoms. It is my hope that this memorial to Derek serves as a reminder of how much Derek loved and sacrificed for our country, and how much our community loves him in return.”

“It was a fitting tribute to recognize Sergeant Derek McConnell’s sacrifice on Independence Day. He represents the best in Parsippany, a true American hero, who paid the ultimate price so we could enjoy the freedoms found only in our great country. God bless Derek and his family,” said Morris County Clerk Ann F Grossi.

On July 23, 2011, McConnell was out on a dismounted patrol and hit two IEDs. The first one just knocked him out. He could have stood down, but he got right back up and that’s when he hit the second. He suffered from a left hip disarticulation (leg gone from the hip), right thigh above the knee amputation, skull fracture, TBI, jaw fractured in three places, missing teeth, broken ulna (arm in limb salvage and somewhat functioning), blast wounds and internal injuries. He battled serious infections and pneumonia for over three months, spent 53 days total in the ICU, and 7 months total as an inpatient. Derek did not let his injuries get him down. His sense of humor never quit attitude, and passion for life was infectious.

Derek was born in 1989, the second of five July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Sergeant Derek McConnell

children. Derek moved to Parsippany in August 2009. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in January 2010 and was stationed at Fort Drum, N.Y. Derek deployed to Afghanistan in March 2011.

He was an aspiring writer and ghost hunter.

Siobhan Fuller-McConnell with Mayor Michael Soriano

More Photos on Page 22 Parsippany Focus Magazine l 19

CLASS OF 2020

230 Graduate from Parsippany High School (Continued from Page 18)

Sanjana Sure, Lina Surmeli, Eka Swamy, Kenneth Sze, Tobey Tan, Tyler Thiel, Michaela Tomanelli, Dylan Tran, Hannah Turrisi, Aniela van Es, Jonathan Vargas, Nicholas Vega Fitzpatrick, Lilianna Vidal, Julia Vincent, Abbas Wafa, Nathaniel Walker, Sarah Walsh, Marcus Wan, Hannah Weber, Jacob Weiss, Justin Wellman, Tyler Wyka, Nazeerah Yildirim, Lawrence Yu, Thomas Zarro , Estefani Zuniga Cruz and Noah Lorencovitz.

20 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

NOT JUST URGENT CARE...

ADVANCED URGENT CARE ADVANCED DIAGNOSTICS ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY ADVANCED TREATMENT

(Continued on Page 19)

FAST. CONVENIENT. AFFORDABLE. Now Open in Mountain Lakes 333 Rte. 46 West, at Boulevard exit 973-939-6220 | atlantichealth.org/mountainlakes

SEAMLESSLY CONNECTED TO NJ’S #1 HOSPITAL MORRISTOWN MEDICAL CENTER July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 21

DEDICATION

Dedication of Adelphia Road in Memory of Sergeant Derek McConnell

Derek’s family

Krystina Dressler, Derek, and Derek’s mom, Siobhan FullerMcConnell. Derek passed away in his sleep on March 18, 2013, at the Wounded Warrior Center, Bethesda/Walter Reed. Complications from wounds (double amputee) suffered in July 2011, Afghanistan.

Attendees gathered in front of the American Flag displayed by Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer District 6

Siobhan Fuller-McConnell, Mayor Michael Soriano, Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Michael dePierro and Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill

Proclamation appears on Page 24 Brothers Michael Fuller, Ryan McConnell, and Sean McConnell proudly holds the American Flag used to cover up the new street sign dedicated to their brother Derek McConnell 22 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

DONATIONS

Kiwanis Club Donates $1,500 ShopRite Gift Cards to Families In Need Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Frank Cahill delivered $1,500 ShopRite Gift Cards to families in need.

Due to COVID19, many of the Kiwanis Club fundraisers have been canceled or postponed. Instead of having our weekly breakfast meetings at Empire Diner, we participate in Zoom Virtual Meetings. Every member was asked to contribute to a “Breakfast Fund” to be used for a special occasion. So far we collected over $1,500 and put the money to good use by purchasing the ShopRite gift cards to be donated to families.

Cahill said “The Parsippany Food Pantry and the Table of Hope Weekly Food Distributions definitely help people in need, but there are items that just aren’t available at those outlets, so the members of Kiwanis decided to donate gift cards so they can purchase those necessary items (such items as paper towels, diapers, or milk).

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is the largest Kiwanis Club in the State of New Jersey with 78 members. New members are always welcome. Kiwanis

July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

members dedicate more than 6 million volunteer hours and invest more than $100 million in service projects that strengthen communities and serve children every year. Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany ensures that all children have the opportunity to lead healthy, successful lives. They believe that by helping one child, you help the world.

For more information about Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany visit www.parsippanykiwanis.org.

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 23

DEDICATION

Dedication of Adelphia Road in Memory of Sergeant Derek McConnell

24 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

BUSINESS NEWS

Tobi Matthews joins SCG Advertising + Public Relations Tobi Matthews has been appointed director of new business development by SCG Advertising + Public Relations, a full-service communications agency based on 26 Eastmans Road. In her new role, Matthews is focused on developing client relationships, with an emphasis on consumer marketing.

Matthews joins SCG with more than two decades of advertising and promotional experience in the consumer packaged goods arena. In supporting a wide array of leading brands, she has been particularly active in branding and shopper marketing initiatives.

“Tobi’s background in cultivating new business relationships is an impressive one, and we’re excited she has joined our team,” says SCG Advertising + Public Relations Vice President / Creative Director Tom Marguccio. “As an agency, we pride ourselves in providing a wealth of different communication service to clients in many sectors, and I’m confident Tobi will help us to further broaden the range of clients we serve.”

Tobi Matthews

A graduate of Post University with an MBA in marketing, Matthews also holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Post.

About SCG Advertising + Public Relations Founded more than half a century ago, SCG (Success Communications Group) provides 21st-century communication services highlighted by creativity, passion, and innovation.

BCB BANK HAS BEEN SERVING GENERATIONS OF FAMILIES

THE ART OF HEALTHY LIVING

From Brick and Mortar Banking to Digital, Mobile, and Online Banking we have a product for every member of your family.

BCB - HOMETOWN - INNOVATIVE MAKING AN IMPACT 20% OFF STORE WIDE

Oil Tinctures, Water Solubles, Pet Products, Topicals, Bath & Beauty and more!

WE MAKE IT EASY! Order Online! www.sunflora.org Use Referral Code: 579NJ

Curbside pick up!

Call 973-794-6707

Del's Village, 131 Hawkins Place, Boonton, NJ 07005 (973) 794-6707

July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

BCB has branch locations throughout New Jersey and New York.

For more information about BCB and its products and services, visit your local Parsippany Branch located at 1452 Route 46 West, Parsippany, NJ 973.402.2467 l www.BCB.Bank

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 25

COMMUNITY NEWS

Parsippany PAL Saves 150 Lives with Blood Drive Over 40 blood donors came out to support the Parsippany PAL community blood drive with their lifesaving blood. One unit of blood can help up to 3 different patients so 150 lives will be impacted from this blood drive.

The blood supply is at a dangerously low level due to Covid-19 and New Jersey Blood Services is desperately seeking large venues where blood drives can be held while maintaining social distancing. The blood center is unable to run bus drives so it is imperative these sites are found so donors can find a donation location.

New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS) reports that last summer over 1500 units of blood were donated on bus mobile drives that cannot run this summer to safely social distance.

If you would like to help save lives by finding a location and assisting in recruiting blood

26 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

donors please reach out to SLynch@nybc.org. If you would like to donate blood, visit nybc.org/ donate-blood/covid-19-and-blood-donation-copy Extra precautions are being taken to help prevent the person-to-person spread of COVID-19. As always, people are not eligible to donate if they’re experiencing a cold, sore throat, respiratory infection, or flu-like symptoms. Additional information on donor eligibility and COVID-19 precautions are available by visiting nybc.org/donate-blood/ covid-19-and-blood-donation-copy/

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 27

ENTERTAINING

Summertime Strawberry Sangria 12 ounces Rose or White Zinfandel 4 ounces Pineapple Rum 2 ounces. Pureed Strawberries 4 ounces Pureed Peaches 4 ounces Pineapple Juice 4 to 8 Fresh Strawberries Sliced 4 Lemon Wedges Yields 4 drinks

Combine liquid ingredients into a large pitcher. Squeeze the lemon wedges and place into the pitcher. Add strawberry slices. Stir all ingredients together. Fill your favorite sangria glass with ice.

Pour, serve and enjoy!

SAINT FRANCIS : A PLACE TO CALL HOME Saint Francis Residential Community offers short and long-term Private Room options for seniors wanting to maintain their independence, but with assistance that is close by if needed.

And, at a lower cost than assisted living.

Our homelike environment provides: Over 120 years of trusted service, Medication monitoring, Housekeeping, Dining, Transportation, a Family-oriented atmosphere, WiFi Network, Library, Laundry services and more.

Contact us at 973.627.5000 to learn more.

BRINGING YOU THE BEST IN SENIOR LIVING 122 Diamond Spring Road Denville, NJ 07834 973.627.5000 www.saintfrancisres.com

28 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

SAINT FRANCIS

A MINISTRY OF THE SISTERS OF THE SORROWFUL MOTHER ESTABLISHED 1895

RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

COMMUNITY NEWS

Brianne Partington Participates in VALE Music Group Forty-three Lebanon Valley College students, including Mount Tabor Resident Brianne Partington, gained real-world experience in the music business industry through participation in VALE Music Group.

This included planning the VALE Conference in the fall semester and signing the new VALE Artist in the spring semester.

on-campus or partially or fully online, a Master of STEM Education, an Integrative STEM Education Certificate, a Master in Music Education, and a Modern Band Certificate.

Partington, a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, is pursuing a bachelor of arts in music business at LVC. Partington served as President of VALE Publishing.

Lebanon Valley College offers bachelor’s degrees in the arts and humanities, business and communications, education, health professions, social sciences and psychology, and science, technology, engineering, and math. Advanced health professions degrees include master of athletic training, master of clinical mental health counseling, master of science in exercise science (three tracks), master of speech-language pathology, and a doctor of physical therapy.

Online and graduate programs include an MBA with six concentrations and a general option offered

Bundle. Save. Simple.

Life can be complicated. I'm here to help simplify your insurance. Plus, the more you protect, the more you can save. Call or stop by today for a free quote.

We carry top cigar brands such as Acid, Arturo Fuente, Avo, Don Pepin, La Gloria Cubana, Liga Privada, Montecristo, Macanudo, Padron, Punch, Rocky Patel, Romeo y Julieta and Tatuaje. Additionally, we carry accessories from famous makers including Colibri, Vertigo, Xikar and Zippo. We feature a comfortable and sophisticated lounge that caters to cigar smokers.

We also carry pipes and pipe tobacco.

Craig Eagleson 973-532-6711

658 Speedwell Ave. Morris Plains, NJ craigeagleson@allstate.com

10% Off With This Ad

I'm always here with local advice you can trust.

Expires 8/11/2020

Based on coverage selected. Savings vary. Subject to terms, conditions and availability.

Allstate New Jersey Property and Casualty Insurance Co., Bridgewater, NJ Š 2020 Allstate Insurance Co.

July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

11980343

235 US Highway 46, Fairfield (973) 227-2818

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 29

COMMUNITY NEWS

Clean Communities: Keeping Parsippany Clean

Peter Nardi, Cole Smyth, Jesse Decker, Kristopher Corbitt, Andrew Gigandi, Justice Fitzgerald and Andrew Lefferts

The Department of Environmental Protection is awarding $19.4 million in annual Clean Communities grants to help municipalities and counties remove litter to beautify neighborhoods, improve water quality and enhance the quality of life, Commissioner Catherine R. McCabe announced. This year, Parsippany-Troy Hills will receive $104,355.00.

In total, the DEP is awarding $17.3 million to eligible municipalities and $2.1 million to the state’s 21 counties. The program is funded by a legislated user-fee on manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors that produce litter-generating products.

“Clean Communities grants help municipalities and counties with the important task of removing unsightly litter, often from roadways and around stormwater collection systems, to enhance the quality of life,” Commissioner McCabe said. “Beautifying our communities through these types of cleanups help 30 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

improve water quality and natural resources while also protecting wildlife and their habitats.”

The nonprofit New Jersey Clean Communities Council oversees the reporting requirements for the program. Disbursements are based on housing units and miles of municipally owned roadways.

The young people were an enthusiastic group who seemed truly appreciative of being able to perform duties for the Township; they were paid through the Clean Communities grant, and they were very happy to have summer jobs.

Clean Communities Coordinator Eddie Celardo said, “The program is designed to support municipalities in their effort to educate citizens and abate littered areas. They did a great job assisting the Road Department with the repair of catch basins, picking up garbage along the roadside, helping out the water department, and performing tasks to show how proud Parsippany can be.” www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

SCHOOL NEWS

Andrew Kertesz Named to RIT Dean’s List for Spring Semester Andrew Kertesz made the Dean’s List at Rochester Institute of Technology for the 2020 Spring Semester. Degree-seeking undergraduate students are eligible for Dean’s List if their term GPA is greater than or equal to 3.400 and completed, at least 12 credit hours.

science, liberal arts, sustainability, and fine and applied arts. RIT also offers unparalleled support services for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. The cooperative education program is one of the oldest and largest in the nation.

Global partnerships include campuses in China, Croatia, Dubai and Kosovo.

Kertesz is in the game design and development program.

Rochester Institute of Technology is home to leading creators, entrepreneurs, innovators and researchers. Founded in 1829, RIT enrolls about 19,000 students in more than 200 career-oriented and professional programs, making it among the largest private universities in the U.S. The university is internationally recognized and ranked for academic leadership in business, computing, engineering, imaging

NOW OPEN! The Solution for Working Parents® Our proprietary Seedlings Early Childhood Education Curriculum encourages a love of learning, prepares children academically and stimulates development through every stage and “aha!” moment.

• Infant, Toddler & Pre-K Programs • Tuition Includes STREAM, Spanish, Music & Sign Language • ParentView® Internet Monitoring • Parent eCommunication App • Interactive Whiteboards & iPad Technology • Clean, Healthy Environment

100 Route 46 Mountain Lakes July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

973.777.4700 LightbridgeAcademy.com Parsippany Focus Magazine l 31

SCHOOL NEWS

Hearts and Hands Held Preschool Graduation Parade Hearts and Hands held a Preschool Graduation Parade on June 30.

strive to provide love and support to their school community.

Hearts and Hands was established in 2006 and is located at the Parsippany Presbyterian, 1675 Route 46.

The Virtual School year was extended until June 30.

They held a “Moving Up Parade: to congratulate and celebrate all of the PreK students.

On Friday, March 13 the staff was told they needed to close due to COVID-19. Unfortunately, they thought it would be for only a brief time, as many schools; they were sadly mistaken. However, the struggle was real and could potentially affect the school significantly. The school decided they would open up Virtually.

They are currently running a Virtual youth camp program online. Their JLP and SLP programs are running smoothly and they are having a blast!

The staff decided now more than ever it was important to keep the connections strong and offer the best experience they could imagine. They supplied multiple live classes with engaging learning experiences to be shared with the students and their families. Everyone enjoyed bedtime stories, games, exercise classes, and coffee hour with the parents. They have always been known to

32 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

For more information click here or call (973) 2575550.

Hearts & Hands preschool program was developed with the child and family in mind. Each small-sized class is staffed with educated, warm, and caring teachers dedicated to providing a safe, healthy, and nurturing learning experience for your child. Our goal is to deliver a curriculum that creates a learning environment rich in age-appropriate activities to encourage your child’s natural ability to learn.

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 33

Community

RESOURCE DIRECTORY Laura’s Pet Spa Full Service Dog & Cat Grooming Day Care and More

Contact us about your Landscaping and Lawn Care Needs

Wall Landscape Services 25 Hardwick Court Parsippany, NJ 07054 (862) 684-2215 wallservices@aol.com

Heating and Air Conditioning

(973) 599-1133 www.laurapetspa.net

1576 Littleton Rd Morris Plains

Corporate Awards - Gift Items Clocks - Plaques - Crystals Awards for All Occasions!

271 Parsippany Road Parsippany (973) 952-0416 Fax (973) 952-0419 trophyking.net sales@trophyking.net

Rush Orders Our Specialty

Advertise

Happy Paws House Calls Dr.Mandeep Mandeep Mini Dr. Mini Veterinarian

Here Call (862) 295-1300 for details

34 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

Veterinarian

-Vaccines & Sick Visits -Acupuncture -Chiropractic -International & Domestic Health Certs -Western & Holistic Medicine -Euthanasia Palliative Care

Photography for all ages and occasions. Head shots, Social: Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, Retirement.

Corporate Events, Fund raisers, Product launches, Food, Advertising and much more.

(973) 216-9408

Call (862) 285-7799 www.parsippanyfocus.news

david@davidwarner.photos

July 2020

CLASS OF 2020

Rochelle Blair Looks Toward Life After Howard University Soccer goalie Rochelle Blair, 22, wishes she was back home in New Jersey, but her parents, both semi-retired educators, and the family dog are sheltering in place in Florida, where they were spending the winter before the world changed due to COVID-19. Blair is in Maryland with a friend, keeping a positive attitude despite not having the graduation she’d hoped for at Howard University.

Rochelle is also a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School Class of 2016.

Her dad coached basketball and football, and Blair credits him for nurturing her love of sports. She first played soccer at age three and her parents appreciated that expended some of her abundant energy. By the time the family settled in New Jersey when she was six, it was her favorite sport.

“I got on a little team that would practice right outside my elementary school,” she said. “I fell in love with it and it grew. I never wanted to stop playing. I started doing indoor things. I joined more teams.”

her hair in honor of her mother and the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. “I’m a legacy because of my mother, but because of soccer, I wasn’t able to pledge,” Blair said. “I was so excited we had pink jerseys my senior year [pink and green are AKA’s colors].”

She also dabbled in basketball, but soccer was her love and she excelled despite having asthma. Although it didn’t determine her focusing on the goalie position, that has been a good choice, and she’s even kept an inhaler by the goalpost, especially on hot days.

Her father has attended almost every single one of Blair’s games. Her mother, who still mentors doctoral students, has missed some due to work obligations. Blair is looking into joining AKA as a post-grad. Playing a sport at Howard was fantastic and she treasures having been part of “a team of beautiful girls all different shades of brown,” she said. “I’d never been on a team that looked like that. It was really cool.”

Family ties are part of the reason Blair chose to attend Howard. Her mother taught there for more than a decade and most recently taught at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Blair wore the green highlight in

An elementary education major, Blair is hoping to begin teaching in the near future. Soccer is still on her radar and she plans to join an adult team and said it would be fantastic to coach soccer to elementary school kids.

July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 35

CLASS OF 2020

280 Graduate from Parsippany Hills High School (Continued from Page 15)

Stojanoska, Jasper Carter Stone, HannahA. Stroh Shrish Subramanian, Kevin Suh, Alexia Yasmine Symak, Brandon Derkhorm Tashi, Bryan Taylor, Elizabeth Thomas, Matthew J. Timney, Alena Tran, Dylan Tran, Angelo Louis Varcadipane, Krislyn Vaz, Manuela Vega-Correa, Michelle Velasquez, Brandon Verderber, Derek MoyVergel de Dios, Anjali K. Vyas, Kelly Rose Walek, Caroline Walz, Harvey W. Wang, Victor Wang, Hailey Anne Watts, Joseph J. Wentworth, Patrick Thomas Whalen, Benjamin Frankel Widdowson, Dennis Timothy Wilson, Richard Allen Wright, Yiwen Wu, Tharini Yagappan, Amy Yang, Jamie Claire Yenzer, Alex Zhang, Chongen Zheng, Nicole Marie Zinckgraf, Emirhan Ziya, Evagelia Zois, Sidrah Zuberi and Karen Alexandra Zumba Urgiles.

36 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

Dr. Matthew Thompson addressing the Class of 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

Watch for our re-opening soon

Orangetheory Fitness Rockaway NJ

Orangetheory Fitness Denville NJ

973-315-5155

973-282-8555

395 Mount Hope Avenue Rockaway, NJ 07866

July 2020

3130 NJ 10 Denville, NJ 07834

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Orangetheory Fitness Parsippany NJ

973-559-6100

38 Waterview Boulevard Parsippany, NJ 07054

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 37

38 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

Your Local Network of Professionals Frank J. DelPesce, VP Sales NMLS ID: 171999

Cell (201) 787-8494

NMLS ID: 214882

fdelpesce@amlgov.com

100 South Jefferson Road, Suite 105 Whippany, New Jersey 07981

www.AmericasMortgageLenders.com

“Making the American Dream a Reality”

MATTHEW C. WRONKO ATTORNEY AT LAW

54 Main Street, P.O. Box 325, Succasunna, N.J. 07876 (973) 584-0790 Fax: (973) 584-1988 attorney@wronkoesq.com

Olga Tsiavos

Broker-Salesperson Associate CRS, ABR, SFR, BPOR Circle of Excellence 2008-2018 Gold 2016-2018

Direct: 973-219-5102 sOffice 973-539-1120 E-Mail: otsiavos@kw.com www.olgasellsNJrealestate.com 44 Whippany Road, Suite 230, Morristown, NJ 07960

Heather Gallagher

Vice President of Business Development

Main Line: 646-762-4251 Cell: 973-945-5355 hgallagher@bostonnationaltitle.com

BOSTON NATIONAL TITLE AGENCY, LLC

MAYHEM IS EXPENSIVE. ALLSTATE IS NOT.

Craig Eagleson (973) 532-6711

craigeagleson@allstate.com allstate.com/craigeagleson

658 Speedwell Ave., Morris Plains NJ 07950

Subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Co. (c) 2020 Allstate Insurance Co.

David Rose (908) 219-9192

NJ Home Inspection License: 24GI00107700 NJ Radon certification Number: MET12870

July 2020

drose@astuteinspections.com www.astuteinspections.com 1234 Hollywood Avenue Plainfield, NJ 07060

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 39

BUSINESS NEWS

European Wax Center Reopens With Specials

The European Wax Centers of Parsippany, Denville, and Roxbury reopened on Monday, June 22. In celebration of the reopening, they are offering a wide array of promotions to enhance their guests’ experiences.

As the leader in the waxing industry, European Wax Center always takes hygiene and safety seriously, and in light of the COVID-19 situation, they have increased their policies and practices.

European Wax Center is committed to the highest For a limited time, new and repeat guests can Buy One sanitation standards for our guests and employees to ensure the health and safety of all who enter our Service and receive a Second Same Day Service 50% centers. Click here to learn more about how we plan off! In addition, new and returning guests can Buy to keep you smooth and safe during this time as well nine and get three Free services when filling up their as how to register for the Frontline Heroes discount.

Wax Passes or Buy 12 Months of Unlimited Wax Pass and Get the 13th Free. Wax Pass holders can receive 20% off the product and 10% off service purchases now through December 31.

European Wax Center is also offering up to 40% off on some of their fantastic products via Spring Product Bundles such as the Stayput Brow Pencil, Sharpener + Perfect Brow Groomer: $25.00 (Reg. $43.00). Products in bundle offers cannot be substituted. All EWC products are cruelty-free and formulated without parabens and mineral oils.

40 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 41

COMMUNITY NEWS 12 Sunrise Drive, Parsippany

Learn to use ReferenceUSA Databases

Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library is offering a free workshop on the ReferenceUSA database, conducted by company representative Bill Carlson. RefUSA is a powerful database containing information on millions of businesses and consumers and can be searched in many ways.

Intro for Businesses, including Retail and Business” will be held on July 16 at 7:00 p.m. One of the most popular databases in use by business patrons, ReferenceUSA is a powerful yet simple to use a database containing information on literally every business and adult consumer in the U.S. The business database includes extensive information on 56 million current businesses and nearly 230 million historical businesses. There is also consumer data on 316+ million individuals, as well as sections on new businesses, the medical industry, and even a segment for job postings. Searches may be conducted based on the type of business, location, revenues, and many other combinations of data. Register at http://www.libraryinsight.net/EventSignUp.asp?t=380542907&jx=j3p&lmx=%-

HELP WANTED Price: Now reduced! $1,050,000!

Welcome to 12 Sunrise Drive, your brand-new extravagant home located in one of the most renowned and conveniently located towns in New Jersey! Featuring five bedrooms and three full bathrooms, this house has space and storage to spare for your family and any guests you may have over. Who wouldn’t want to come over for a great time at your home, which not only features a luxurious Grecian pool, but an adjacent entrance to the downstairs area for a quick shower and a relaxing seat at the inviting hardwood bar for some great storytelling and laughter? You may also enjoy a nice evening spent on the deck, accessible right from the eat-in kitchen, or, some quality time in the den or living room, which connect via the lavish French doors. With these features alone, and more, 12 Sunrise Drive offers everything you could want in a new home!

Contact Matthew O’Toole Office (201) 403-8274 or (Cell) 201-403-8274

Parsippany Focus is seeking freelance writers to produce feature stories for our publications.

We are also seeking part-time commissioned Sales Representative Contact

Frank Cahill Publisher (862) 295-1300 frank@zoomus.com

Re/Max Limited. License #1972706

42 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

www.parsippanyfocus.news

July 2020

GET YOUR BEST SMILE EVER IN UP TO 35% LESS TIME Unmatched Expertise.

Unrivaled Technology.

Unprecedented Service.

Platinum Plus Invisalign Provider | NJ Top Doc 2009-2020 New Jersey Family’s Favorite Kids’ Docs™ 2009-2019 | Best of Essex/Morris Magazine

Every smile is backed by our

WE’VE MOVED! 100% CAGGIANO SMILE WARRANTY Visit us at o ur new office Dr. David Caggiano location

973.887.8780

272 Parsippany Road, Parsippany Most Insurance Plans Accepted Author of “A PARENT’S GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING ORTHODONTICS”

July 2020

www.parsippanyfocus.news

Parsippany Focus Magazine l 43

Zoomus Marketing, LLC. 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 338 Parsippany, New Jersey 07054

PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID EDDM RETAIL

ECRWSS Local Postal Customer

Your Neighborhood Real Estate Experts!

PAUL CRISTELLI

ANDREA MARTONE

973-214-3316 PLATINUM AGENTS 973-886-2626 WWW.ANDREAMARTONE.COM

Broker Owner

Top 1% of Realty Executives in NJ

113 Parsippany Rd, Parsippany, NJ 07054 OFFICE 973-887-0095

Realtor® Associate

We Are Selling Homes Quickly, Safely, And For Top Dollar!

Call Today To Get Your Home SOLD! $425,000

4 BED 1.5 BATH

Parsippany - COMING SOON Parsippany - 3 bed, 2.5 bath

Denville - 2 bed, 1.5 bath

Randolph - 2 bed, 2.5 bath

Parsippany - 5 bed, 3 bath

Parsippany - 3 bed, 2 bath

Parsippany - 3 bed, 1 bath

Whippany - 6 bed, 3.5 bath