January 2022
Mayor James Barberio Inside: News From Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce
Look who is joining Rauchberg Dental Group!
Dr. Denise Kitay has over 25 years of Orthodontic Experience
DENTISTRY DONE
DIFFERENTLY General, Ortho, Perio, Endo + Oral Surgery ... All In One Office
199 Baldwin Road, Parsippany 973-968-6631 rauchbergdmd@optimum.net 2 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
January 2022
Serving 53,515 Households of Parsippany-Troy Hills
Welcome Back Mayor Barberio | Cover, 6
January 2022
As your new Mayor, I wish each of you a happy, healthy and joyous New Year. I want to thank the residents of Parsippany for electing me as your Mayor – once again.
www.ParsippanyFocus.news Frank L. Cahill, Publisher Nicolas Limanov, Photographer Patrick Minutillo, Contributing Writer Christine Mercado, Contributing Writer Sharon Maroldi, Contributing Writer Luis A. Matos, Distribution Manager
Court of Honor Ceremony Honors Local Eagle Scouts | 7
The Scouts BSA Troop 72 Parsippany held an Eagle Scout Court of Honor at All Saints Academy on Sunday, January 2, to honor three scouts who achieved the rank of Eagle Scout: Arnov Bhardwaj, Neil Deshpande, and Derek Kaiser.
Design and Layout Zoomus Marketing, LLC 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 322 Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 (862) 295-1300
A Message From the Superintendent | 8
Much has been reported about potential gaps in student learning due to interrupted schooling. Parsippany students were so fortunate to have a consistent year of learning in 20202021.
Member of
Garibaldi Peru-Mex Restaurant: Popular and Diverse Cuisines | 11
Mexican food or Peruvian food, though similar but having distinctive characteristics in many ways, comes down to one’s preference.
Andrea Martone: Giving It All When It Comes to Giving Back | 17 Andrea Martone, a top New Jersey Realtor® and the owner of Realty Executives Platinum Agents, has an unquenchable passion for real estate combined with compassion for her community... and both of those qualities are evident through her dedication to both her clients and community service.
Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting | 18
Parisi Youth Sports Performance recently held a ribbon cutting grand opening inside Parsippany PAL, 33 Baldwin Road.
Venture X: Business Solutions in a Post-COVID Future | 21
The corporate world is constantly changing, not only in how it does business with partners, but how its employees thrive.
CCM Trustee Jeffrey Advokat Presented with Trustee Spotlight Award | 24 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.
A long-time and highly influential member of the Board of Trustees at County College of Morris, Jeffrey M. Advokat, Esq. recently was presented with a Trustee Spotlight Award from the New Jersey Council of County Colleges for his expansive service on behalf of the state’s and nation’s community colleges.
Parsippany Focus Magazine is published monthly by Zoomus Marketing, LLC, 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 322, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 (c) 2022 Zoomus Marketing, LLC.
Kiwanis Club is Distributing Free “Winter Children Jackets” | 31
No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of the publisher.
4 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany and Kiwanis Club of South Orange Maplewood have teamed up in the distribution of free Winter Children Jackets.
www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
December 2021
www.parsippanyfocus.news
Parsippany Focus Magazine l 13
Message from Mayor Barberio
Mayor James R. Barberio
As your new Mayor, I wish each of you a happy, healthy and joyous New Year. I want to thank the residents of Parsippany for electing me as your Mayor – once again. It feels great to be back! For those of you who voted for me, I will work hard every day to affirm your trust and confidence in me. For those who didn’t vote for me, I will work equally as hard for you. I serve as Mayor for ALL the residents of Parsippany Troy Hills, regardless of party affiliation. After years of division, it is time to bring our Town back together and work for our common good. I especially look forward to working with our Council in this regard.
administration and the Council will make good decisions moving forward that will put Parsippany back on the road to fiscal prosperity. We need to cut expenses where we can. That is why we will examine every line item in the budget. We also need to grow in ways that benefit our Town. One of our biggest challenges is re-purposing our obsolete office buildings and putting them to new and productive uses. This will increase our revenues and create a positive vibrancy for our Town. I am truly excited to serve as your Mayor – once again. Together, we can bring the Pride Back to Parsippany.
Parsippany is Morris County’s most populated and most prominent municipality. Our residents enjoy terrific schools, beautiful parks, and outstanding services due to the efforts of our outstanding employees. We are home to many businesses as the “corporate center of Morris County”. As a Parsippany resident who was born and raised here, I proudly say that Parsippany is the place to be! However, we have enormous challenges. Taxes and expenses have been increasing at an alarming rate. Our utilities bills are also rising. Our budget needs competent management. Unfortunately, our fiscal problems cannot be fixed in one year. But I have strong confidence that my 6 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
James R. Barberio
www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
COMMUNITY NEWS
Court of Honor Ceremony Honors Local Eagle Scouts
Lighting the Eagle Trail Ceremony with Charlie Sonzogni during the Eagle Court of Honor for Arnov Bhardwaj, Neil Deshpande and Derek Kaiser
The Scouts BSA Troop 72 Parsippany held an Eagle Scout Court of Honor at All Saints Academy on Sunday, January 2, to honor three scouts who achieved the rank of Eagle Scout: Arnov Bhardwaj, Neil Deshpande, and Derek Kaiser.
Life Scout, and, finally, Eagle Scout.
The COVID-19 pandemic presented special challenges to the planning and executing of this event. All efforts were put in place to ensure the safety of the scouts, leaders, and families attending the event including sanitizing all surfaces, social distancing seating by family, wearing masks, and the Kaiser Family outside in a tent due to being currently quarantined.
Those who missed it by a whisker remember exactly which requirement they didn’t complete. Americans from all walks of life know that being an Eagle Scout is a great honor. The award is more than a badge. It’s a state of being.
The pathway to Eagle can be described as a steep trail leading up to three peaks, the highest being that of Eagle Scout. Officially, the trail starts with the Tenderfoot rank and continues through Second and First Class ranks. Then, the mountain climbing begins. The path is marked with merit badges, leadership responsibilities, service projects, and the practice of Scouting skills and ideals. The first peak reached is that of Star Scout, the second is January 2022
The Eagle Scout Award is Scouting’s highest rank and among its most familiar icons. Men who have earned it count it among their most treasured possessions.
The Eagle Scout may have received the badge as a boy, but you earn it every day as a man. In the words of the Eagle Scout Promise, they do their best each day to make their training and example, their rank and their influence count strongly for better Scouting and for better citizenship in the troop, in their community, and in their contacts with other people. And to this, they pledge their sacred honor.
www.parsippanyfocus.news
(Continued on Page 10) Parsippany Focus Magazine l 7
A Message From the Superintendent
Student Assessment Results: How are students doing after a year of hybrid learning? Dr. Barbara Sargent Much has been reported about potential gaps in student learning due to interrupted schooling. Parsippany students were so fortunate to have a consistent year of learning in 2020-21. Our schools opened on time, remained consistently open all year, transitioned away from a Week A/Week B model so all students could attend school every day in person, and concluded the year with a full day schedule. We provided several summer programs to enrich and support students in areas of literacy and mathematics. We also organized many orientations at the schools to welcome children back and reinforce a safe and inviting learning environment. Once the school year began, students were assessed in areas of mathematics, literacy, and science. Some of this was connected to the state-mandated Start Strong assessments and some was part of district benchmark assessments. Our Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Dr. Denis Mulroony, presented an overview of these assessment results at the December 16th Board of Education meeting. The Start Strong presentation is posted on the district website. While some students need support in areas of reading and mathematics, results indicate that most students are performing at grade level. We are confident that keeping students engaged with rich math and literacy instruction, encouraging independent reading at home, and reinforcing consistent attendance will yield strong results.
8 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
In addition to academics, the district is also monitoring students’ social/emotional learning and mental health. It comes as no surprise that students at all grade levels began the school year exhibiting neurodevelopmental delays in areas such as school readiness, conflict resolution, critical and abstract thinking skills, and a clear sense of right and wrong. It’s an important reminder of the critical role of schooling in fostering these necessary behaviors. All schools are providing opportunities to support students with social-emotional learning, including special peer groups, direct lessons in conflict resolution, advisory meetings, and morning circle time to greet and check in with students. The district is infusing numerous opportunities for student leadership to teach and reinforce cooperation, public speaking, and student advocacy. I am confident that important gains will be made in these areas as our students spend more time engaged in consistent, stable, and caring interactions with educators and peers. As we move through the winter and spring months, we’re confident that our Parsippany students will continue to thrive, both academically and socially. From rich classroom instruction to extracurricular opportunities like clubs and theater and service learning to athletics, there are a wealth of experiences to support and reinvigorate our students . Best wishes to you all for a Happy and Healthy New Year!
www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
PARSIPPANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
PACC Welcomes New Member: Timothy Berrios Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce (PACC) welcomes new member, Timothy Berrios, On Call Computer Services. They understand your technology frustrations. They are a small business too. Their Small Business IT Support service can deliver over 30 years of experience which is tailored to your small business needs and budget. On Call Computer Services will provide the right mix of people, technology, and processes that works for you. On Call Computer Services can provide you with: • IT Support • IT Consulting • Computer Services • Data Backup Solutions • Server Support • Cloud Solutions for Business • Email Spam Solutions You can reach Tim by calling (201) 406-6978
Frank Cahill, Executive Board Member PACC, Timothy Berrios and Robert Peluso, President PACC.
Inside Parsippany Sheraton Hotel
January 2022
www.parsippanyfocus.news
Parsippany Focus Magazine l 9
COMMUNITY NEWS
Court of Honor Ceremony Honors Local Eagle Scouts (Continued from Page 7)
Since its introduction in 1911, the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by more than two million young men. Only 5% of the Boy Scouts actually earn this rank.
by the unprecedented situation of the COVID pandemic affecting the entire world.
Arnov Bhardwaj Arnov began planning his Eagle Project in late 2019 when he reached out to Celebrate the Children, a school for students with special learning needs. He and the school’s representative, Mrs. Cheri Alexander, decided to install fitness stations along a walking path on the school’s campus. This was to ensure students could participate in physical activity when they were outside, being able to engage in exercises such as pull-ups, push-ups, sit-ups, and dips. It also contributed to the campus’s aesthetically pleasing array of eagle projects. Arnov got approval for the project, budgeted, and fundraised online with the help of his parents. He oversaw the assembly of the fitness apparatuses, dug holes in the ground, and anchored the stations with concrete. With the help of many volunteers and school authorities, he was able to complete the project in November 2020 despite the numerous roadblocks created
Neil Deshpande
Neil Deshpande Neil began the process of his Eagle Scout Project in February 2021, reaching out to Cheri Alexander of Celebrate the Children, a non-profit school for children living with autism, and other challenges in relating and communicating. After touring the grounds of the school and being introduced to some of the challenges that students face, Ms. Alexander gave some pointers on where he could help. He opted to build and install two fitness stations: a pull-up station and a balance beam station, to aid in developing motor skills in children, as many attending students lack these. Additionally, he opted to build and install four benches along a small trail, overlooking the lake and surrounding trees, shrubs, and flower bushes. This will be used for many purposes: an area to host small classes when weather is appropriate, given COVID-19 recommendations to gather outdoors; allow a seating area for students to develop their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination by painting the (Continued on Page 12)
Arnov Bhardwaj 10 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
RESTAURANT REVIEW
Garibaldi Peru-Mex Restaurant: Popular and Diverse Cuisines Mexican food or Peruvian food, though similar but having distinctive characteristics in many ways, comes down to one’s preference. Peruvian food is a combination of Spanish, African, and Native American influences, utilizing a lot of fresh seafood, chilies, potatoes, corn, rice, and beans, while Mexican food, one of the most popular and diverse cuisines in the world, utilizes corn, beans and, cheese as their staples. Although both cuisines have meat and seafood dishes, Mexican food is more meat-based, while Peruvian food seems to lean towards fresh seafood. Fortunately, whichever one you prefer you will find one of your favorite dishes right off Route 46 East in Parsippany at the Garibaldi Peru-Mex Restaurant. Another one of those small storefront eateries stuck in the middle of a small, nondescript strip mall right off the highway near the New Road intersection, Garibaldi is a true find. The restaurant specializes in both Peruvian and Mexican cuisine. It is not a fusion restaurant but offers a menu with Mexican dishes on one side and Peruvian on the other. And yes, the food is authentic, fresh, and homemade. Garibaldi has been a staple in Parsippany since 2010 when husband, Jorge, who comes from Peru, and wife, Gloria, who hails from Pueblo, Mexico (hence the mixed menu) opened their doors. Today, the business is still family-owned and run, with Jorge, Gloria, and daughter, Emily, still cooking and serving delicious and healthy food.
Garibaldi Peru-Mex Restaurant is located at 107 Route 46
tablecloth type of place. A nice humble, unpretentious place with only eight simple Formica tables, linoleum floors, and delicious, personalized service, and homestyle cooking. The interior, though plain, is exceptionally clean, cute, cozy, comfortable, and welcoming. The walls are a vibrant combination of orange, yellow and blue, and are thoughtfully decorated with assorted Peruvian and Mexican artifacts with live Aloe Vera plants lining the large exterior windows, all providing a nice ethnic ambiance. A large screen TV, on low volume, sits on a
Garibaldi could certainly be described as a low-key venue. Nothing fancy here folks! This is not your white linen
January 2022
www.parsippanyfocus.news
(Continued on Page 14)
Parsippany Focus Magazine l 11
COMMUNITY NEWS
Court of Honor Ceremony Honors Local Eagle Scouts walkways so that visitors could grow plants while providing proper drainage for the garden.
(Continued from Page 10)
scenery; and an area for students to relax, with appropriate supervision. Neil initiated, drafted, planned, and fundraised for the project with guidance from advisors from within his unit: Troop 72. While executing the project, he was helped by many friends, scouts, and other volunteers, during which, he exhibited leadership traits and problem-solving skills. He oversaw the construction and installation of all components, completing the project before the school year. Today, hundreds of students use the fitness apparatus and lakeside benches installed by Neil.
The goal of the project was to allow parishioners to come together outdoors to join in fellowship despite the dire situation of COVID-19 while also benefiting the Church’s food pantry. Troop 72 was founded in 1954 and served the boys of the Parsippany Area until March 12, 2019. On March 12, 2019, Rev. Msgr. Herbert K. Tillyer signed the Scouts BSA New Unit Application for a Scouts BSA linked troop, thereby creating two Troop 72’s. This opens a new chapter in Troop 72 history, where we can now provide the same outstanding program to both boys and girls. They have scouts from all parts of Parsippany, and beyond. Going to school at Brooklawn Middle School, Central Middle School, Parsippany High School, Parsippany Hills High School, and other schools outside of the Parsippany public school system. They are sponsored by Saint Peter the Apostle Church and meet in the cafeteria at All Saints Academy. They attend Scout Sunday at Saint Peter’s, and their annual food drive benefits the Saint Peters food pantry. Troop 72 participates in community service work with multiple churches and civic organizations. They welcome any requests from the community and are always happy to help.
Derek Kaiser
Derek Kaiser Derek led and organized others to renovate an existing fenced-in area on the property of St. Peter the Apostle Church in Parsippany to become a functional community garden. Unwanted plants and shrubs needed to be removed so that raised garden beds could be constructed out of lumber and installed. Then the area was filled with planting soil and gravel 12 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
Thank you, Customers! For welcoming us into the East Hanover community, we are incredible grateful. Now through January 31 please stop in an enjoy a 15% discount on all purchases. For in-store purchases only. Offer does not apply to catering orders.
January 2022
www.parsippanyfocus.news
Parsippany Focus Magazine l 13
RESTAURANT REVIEW
Garibaldi Peru-Mex Restaurant: Popular and Diverse Cuisines (Continued from Page 11)
corner wall with a Spanish station playing. Reminds me of small eateries of this type you will find in one of our inner cities. Stopped in with a group of friends and immediately noticed that everyone in the restaurant, which was crowded, was speaking Spanish. A great sign when going to a Peru-Mex restaurant! Our group grabbed a seat and began to peruse the menu as the lunch crowd was clearing out. Gloria, our host, and the server came over as we discussed what we would share as appetizers. Gloria, a very pleasant and friendly person who immediately made us feel very much at home, was helpful in suggesting our different options. We finally settled on servings of a combination of Marinated Pork Tacos and Brisket Tacos, Sausage Tostadas, and a serving of Ceviche Mixto Seafood. The Tacos, wrapped with a soft, corn tortilla were fragrant, mouth-watering, moist, juicy, and packed with meat. No argument that both the pork and brisket were equally delicious. The open-faced spicy sausage Tostada, also served on a corn tortilla, was savory and went perfectly with the tasty Mexican homemade tangy Pica nte style sauce, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and olives that it came topped with. The Peruvian style Ceviche Mixto Seafood, which we ordered as one of our appetizers, had an ample amount of fresh, assorted fish, to satisfy our group of four. Cevi-
14 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
Jorge, Gloria and Pat Minutillo
che, a mixture of fresh fish that is marinated with lemon juice, came with red onions, yams, and toasted corn kernels. It is a hot-button issue as to which country has the best Ceviche, but Peru claims it as their national dish and claims to have been enjoying it for over
www.parsippanyfocus.news
(Continued on Page 34)
January 2022
CALL (973) 882-5576
PARSIPPANY, VERONA, KEARNY & RANDOLPH With over 20 years of experience, Ajaco Towing & Recovery, headquartered in Parsippany, New Jersey, is the #1 towing company in New Jersey. With three locations in Parsippany, Verona, Kearny and Randolph, Ajaco can handle all aspects of the towing, vehicle recovery, fleet/large truck repairs and short/long vehicle transport. We tow for local and state police departments, local highways, Garden State parkway and handle all insurance MVA Claims and private property impounds (that are no expense of the property owner).
All Major Credit Cards Accepted
Towing & Recovery, Rigging, Heavy Duty Repair and Transportation January 2022
www.parsippanyfocus.news
Parsippany Focus Magazine l 15
I’m looking for 5 people that want to lose 10-15 lbs. in the next 30 days
If this is you message me saying, “I’M READY” and I’ll send some details.
Erik Anthony, Online fitness coach (instagram @ea_fitness23 or 973-454-3332) Dieting is like dating, so choose your diet as carefully as you choose your mate. When thinking about losing weight do you feel like you have no social life, cannot enjoy yourself around people, and tried to diet several times but just end up quitting? I lost close to 80lbs. in my weight loss journey, I was the overweight kid growing up and from experience of helping thousands of people who like me have struggled with fad diets, under-eating, over-eating and the struggle of losing weight that they 3 key factors is flexible dieting, (sustainable/enjoyable dieting losing weight while eating foods you love), your lifestyle, and accountability. When your choosing your mate you might be frustrated just as much as choosing a diet! All good relationships results in a commitment, all good diets are grow from commitment. Unlike a mate you can still change them! The secret is to brainwash them slowly and same goes for your diet! EA Fitness is a weight loss coaching program that has helped thousands of people lose weight and can help you lose weight while still enjoying the foods you love. When someone’s looking for a trainer, it’s typically because they want to lose weight but the problem with a trainer is they’re only delivering about 10% of your results with weight loss which are exercise. 80% to 90% of your results are going to be dictated by your diet and lifestyle so I have all those things in one place. You get an online coach who helps you through everything from nutrition to motivation and really makes sure that every single day its focused on what matters most which is getting healthy and losing fat. Ive helped thousands of people lose weight 16 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
bb
while enjoying the foods they love with my online coaching program EA Fitness offers a way to get the right nutrition, accountability and support for your weight loss journey. EA Fitness is an online fitness community that provides online training, custom meal plans, coaching and more to help you lose weight. They believe in creating a sense of accountability by providing members with tracking tools, daily tips from experts on healthy living and weekly check-ins with their coaches. With a personal trainer you spend thousands of dollars on them holding your had 2-3x a week for only 10% of your results. With EA fitness we cover all three main components (nutrtition, exercise, and accountability) so I don’t just hold you accountable and guide you only in the gym but I hold you accountable out of the gym when its most important Members also have access to ebooks with expert advice on how to eat healthfully without sacrificing taste or enjoyment. If you’d like to learn more shoot me a message saying, “I’M READY” on instagram at @ea_fitness23 or text message me at (973) 454-3332 and ill send some more info!
www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
PARSIPPANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Andrea Martone: Giving It All When It Comes to Giving Back Andrea Martone, a top New Jersey Realtor® and the owner of Realty Executives Platinum Agents, has an unquenchable passion for real estate combined with compassion for her community... and both of those qualities are evident through her dedication to both her clients and community service.
Martone was raised in Parsippany, as was her partner, Paul Cristelli. She has called Rockaway home in the past and currently resides in Denville. Today, she proudly boasts that she has been a Morris County resident for over 45 years. To Martone, real estate is more than helping clients buy and sell homes - it is about cultivating thriving communities and forming relationships with thousands of neighbors that call these communities home. Martone began her real estate career 21 years ago and immediately began sponsoring charity events to promote her new business and expand her contacts. Her participation in Morris County events quickly led to invites to food drives, fundraisers for animal shelters, and more. She discovered that charity events were a great way to authentically connect with various members of the community and saying ‘no’ was not an option. The deep ties Martone developed with the community helped her become a true neighborhood expert and advocate. “I believe that when you put out positive, positive things come back. These communities have been so supportive of me, my family, and my business over the years; the communities trust us. I want to do anything and everything I can to reciprocate that,” says Martone. While Martone’s career has evolved over the years from agent to top producer to brokerage owner, her commitment to growing the community has not waivered. She is a longtime active member of the Elks Club in Parsippany, participating in the Ladies Auxiliary. The auxiliary hosts fish fry dinners, garage sales, raffles, and social events to raise money for initiatives such as Camp Moore, a vacation away from home for children with special needs. Recently, both Martone and Cristelli joined the Kiwanis Club of Denville. Their work with the club helps raise money for various children’s initiatives through awards dinners, pancake breakfasts, paper shreds, and more. They also participate in the Denville library’s trunk or treat, safe and fun activity for local children. But Martone and Cristelli cannot stop with one or two clubs when there are more communities to serve. The team sponsors trick-or-treat trails in Boonton and Rockaway and volunteer in the Parsippany Food Truck Festival supporting Parsippany Kiwanis. They participate in the Denville Fall Festival benefitting the fire department, and Parsippany’s trunk or treat. They have become the local go-to Realtors® when it comes to service, filling nearly all their non-business hours with events to benefit the neighborhoods they love. “We have so much fun that time truly flies by at each of these outings. We love catching up with everyone, seeing their January 2022
Andrea Martone
kids grow, and having a great time together,” says Martone. The project nearest and dearest to Martone is the Pink Witches Night Out. This Denville-based fundraiser occurs annually in October and supports breast cancer awareness. Deemed “New Jersey’s best girls’ night out for a great cause,” this year’s event benefited a 29-year-old local woman with stage three breast cancer. Attendees don witch hats with pink ribbons to honor cancer survivors, current warriors, and family members. “The importance of giving back to the communities where you live, work, and play cannot be understated,” says Patrick van den Bossche, president of Realty Executives International. “Our Executives are attracted to real estate because it provides a tremendous opportunity to serve others, especially beyond a transaction. The Martone Team recognizes and understands that charitable service strengthens the community from the inside out, making a lasting impact.” Stay tuned for Martone’s upcoming community activities, including Platinum Agents’ fundraiser for a local food pantry, complete with pictures with Santa. To learn more, visit www.martoneteam.com or connect with her on facebook.com/AndreaMartoneNJRealtor”. A Note About Andrea Martone Andrea Martone is a top-quality real estate professional who possesses a high level of integrity and knowledge of the community to serve all your real estate needs. Her market awareness, coupled with marketing savvy, effective negotiation skills, and personal guidance, are exactly what is needed to navigate the real estate market. Andrea provides top-quality customer service by putting her clients first. She keeps herself accessible, response to her client’s needs, is an effective communicator and is an excellent listener.
www.parsippanyfocus.news
Parsippany Focus Magazine l 17
Parisi Youth Sports Performance train the core and create top level athletes. Dr. McGill works closely with them to ensure the best techniques in injury prevention. At Parisi they believe that self-confidence in the athlete is paramount. After all, sports are as much a mindset as a physical endeavor and it’s imperative for them they are helping to build positive self-esteem in their athletes. Their performance coaches are trained to address the three foundational components of Self-Esteem - Belonging, Competence and Worth.
Matt Lucarello. Partner, Program Director, Performance Coach. Specialties: NJ Physical Therapy License, Collegiate Swimming, Soccer, Football and Baseball
Being part of the Parisi family is where the belonging starts for them, then training them in the mechanics of running and skills in acceleration, deceleration, change of direction, top speed, strength and much more. Worth comes in part by learning to see that athletics does not define them as a person, but rather opens doors of opportunity for the unique person they are created to be, and goals they are meant to achieve.
Matt started out his athletic interest at a very young age taking to all sports including baseball, football, Track & Field, and wrestling, all of which he played through high school. During his college years at Rutgers University, he continued his athletic pursuits via the martial arts of Brazilian Jujitsu and Muay Thai, while earning a degree in Exercise Physiology.
Parisi Youth Sports Performance is located at 33 Baldwin Road, Parsippany. Inside PAL Youth Center. For more information call (973) 5392000. www.parisimorris.com.
Matt’s fascination with the mechanics of the human body instilled in him a passion to pursue and earn a degree and licensure as a Physical Therapy Assistant as well as certification as a Message Therapist.
20 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
PARSIPPANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Venture X: Business Solutions in a Post-COVID Future
Mahender Gorrai, Owner & CEO of Venture X holds a plaque presented to VentureX from Parsippany Economic Development Committee Vice-Chairman Frank Cahill and Mayor Michael Soriano. By Peter Koerella Public Information Officer/Confidential Aide The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills
The corporate world is constantly changing, not only in how it does business with partners, but how its employees thrive. The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged businesses both big and small to re-think how they survive, function, and continue to flourish with these continuing challenges. How do we meet our goals, and exceed expectations, when there’s so much uncertainty? Venture X understands those challenges and has provided a unique layout to help businesses maintain flexibility and easy accessibility for residents in Parsippany. “We wanted to design flexible office and workspaces for flexible employee needs,” says Mahender Gorrai, Owner & CEO of Venture X in Parsippany. “Our design and architecture help enable that kind of flexibility to meet corporate and employee needs, and we’re centrally located, so office accessibility is quick and easy.” Think of Venture X as a sort of Airbnb or Uber, but for corporate offices. Inside the location, businesses can January 2022
have fully-enclosed office spaces (from single to multiple users), breakout workspaces for larger groups, to big meeting rooms with immersive presentation capabilities. Venture X has all the corporate needs available to businesses without the massive corporate footprint of owning a building. “We have meeting rooms, lounge, and kitchen, workspaces available for short stints from an hour to a few weeks, we have dedicated desks and shared workspaces, even virtual memberships where a business can have their presence virtually at this location and receive mail and packages. It’s all about flexibility.” The idea for a Venture X franchise location in Parsippany came about a few years ago after Gorrai visited a location in Naples, Fla. Designed by Gensler Architecture (who designed both Apple’s and Google’s workspaces), these locations accommodate both an open corporate workspace, as well as an intimate and focused environment to support employee needs. “By the time our build-out was completed, it was right at the height of COVID-19,” Gorrai says. “That’s made
www.parsippanyfocus.news
(Continued on Page 22) Parsippany Focus Magazine l 21
PARSIPPANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Venture X: Business Solutions in a Post-COVID Future (Continued from Page 21)
owning a business a real challenge since COVID has continued to just stick around. But we have a range of different office space types set up, which works to the benefit of companies during COVID, to protect workers while ensuring business needs continue to be met. There are also no long-term leases, so if arrangements change, you can change with it.” The architecture and layout are both open and customizable, with a sharp exterior and communal vibe. In addition to the workspaces, Venture X offers plenty of corporate amenities, like free beverages and snacks, along with a golf simulator, game room, and gym that members can access. “The businesses that utilize this location really like it because they’re able to interact with each other,” says Gorrai. “Our businesses have a sense of community and togetherness with other groups in this setting. It’s really wonderful.”
The reception area of VentureX
Businesses that want to learn more about Venture X visit https://venturex.com/locations/parsippany-8-campus-drive/ or call (973) 969-3850.
Where can you get extra copies of
PARSIPPANY FOCUS MAGAZINE 1. Parsippany Municipal Building 2. Parsippany Police Department 3. Parsippany PAL 4. Parsippany Library - Halsey Road 5. Lake Hiawatha Library 6. South Beverwyck Park and Ride 7. Parsippany Post Office 8. Staples 9. IHOP 10. Funny Books 11. Acme - Denville 12.Empire Diner 13. Hog Wash Car Wash 14. Envy Sport Clubs 15. Parsippany Community Center 16. VentureX
Mahender Gorrai, Owner & CEO of Venture gives a tour to Mayor Michael Soriano
If your favorite store is not listed, have them call us and we will leave magazines there too. (862) 295-1300 22 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
Mayor Michael Soriano walking past one of the many conference rooms
www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
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 January 2022
www.parsippanyfocus.news
Parsippany Focus Magazine l 23
SCHOOL NEWS
CCM Trustee Jeffrey Advokat Presented with Trustee Spotlight Award “Jeff’s service to County College of Morris and community colleges nationwide has been expansive and profound,” noted Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, president of CCM. “CCM is now a nationally recognized college, which Jeff helped us to obtain through his guidance, commitment and direction, as he also has assisted trustees across the United States with his knowledge and passion. The CCM community takes great pride in the contributions Jeff has made to strengthen not only CCM but also community colleges across the country.” “I am honored and deeply moved to have been presented with this award,” said Advokat. “I am a strong believer in the power of community colleges to transform lives and it is an honor and privilege to serve CCM and assist other trustees.” Jeffrey M. Advokat, Esq.
A long-time and highly influential member of the Board of Trustees at County College of Morris (CCM), Jeffrey M. Advokat, Esq. recently was presented with a Trustee Spotlight Award from the New Jersey Council of County Colleges (NJCCC) for his expansive service on behalf of the state’s and nation’s community colleges. Inscribed on the glass award, Advokat is commended for being, “A True Advocate Nationally and in New Jersey – Supporting the Mission of Community Colleges.” “The New Jersey Council of County Colleges was honored to present the Trustee Spotlight Award to Jeff Advokat in recognition of his tireless service and strong leadership as a trustee of County College of Morris,” said Aaron Fichtner, president of the NJCCC. “Jeff is an active member of the Council of County Colleges, helping to guide the work of the state’s network of community colleges. Jeff is an innovative thinker who is committed to improving the lives of students and strengthening our communities and is incredibly deserving of statewide recognition.” 24 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
A member of the Board of Trustees at CCM since 2002, Advokat now is serving as chair of the board for the third time. He also is an active member of the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), serving on its Communications and Education Committee and frequently lecturing on the topic of board ethics for ACCT members and assisting with training new trustees in the intricacies of their role. He also actively participates in the NJCCC, serving on committees and taskforces. Advokat is a senior partner of Advokat & Rosenberg, Esq. in Morristown, and a former Morris County Assistant Prosecutor. Professionally he has tried thousands of matters in all levels of court throughout his 41year career and has garnered a 95 percent rate of success. He has experience in the classroom having taught business law at Caldwell University, the American Institute of Paralegal Studies, the New Jersey Assistant Prosecutor’s Association and the New York Chiropractic College. He earned his law degree from Hofstra University, his master’s Fellowship in Government from the Eagleton Institute of Rutgers University and his bachelor’s degree from Rutgers.
www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
Denville@ Walgreens Shopping Center |
Your first wax is FREE*
waxcenter.com
*First Wax Free offer: 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. European Wax Center locations are individually owned and operated. © 2021 EWC Franchise, LLC. All rights reserved. European Wax Center® is a registered trademark.
PARSIPPANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
PACC Welcomes New Members
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill, American School of Business Elayne McKinney and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso
American School of Business recently joined Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce. American School of Business is located at 194 Route 46 East, Fairfield. Since their inception in 1983 the American School of Business has established itself as a leader in providing quality education using only the best and most up to date materials available. Each year thousands of students are successfully prepared for careers in Real Estate, Insurance & Financial Services. In addition, thousands more call on us to advance themselves through our seminars and exam preparation programs. In 2006 they added Mortgage Training courses to their list of Real Estate Programs. The new courses include Mortgage Lending Principles and Practices which is designed for Loan Officers, 26 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
Solicitors, Underwriters and Processors who would like to jump start their new career. In addition they offer a comprehensive Licensed Lender Exam Preparation Course for those preparing for their Mortgage Bankers, Brokers, and/or Secondary Lenders Licensing Exams. The American School of Business is licensed and/ or approved by the New Jersey Real Estate Commission, The New Jersey State Board of Real Estate Appraisers, The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, and The New Jersey State Board of Accountancy. They are also approved for the training of Veterans and eligible dependents by the State Approving Agency. For more information call 800-288-5154 or visit www.americanschoolnj.com.
www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
PUPPY LOVE
Meet Athos, a Special Boy Who Wants a Home for the Holidays! Athos is a Sato” -- a mutt from Puerto Rico who is similar in body type to a Shiba Inu/Chihuahua mix! He is eight months old. Athos is searching for a loving, patient family who takes their time letting him adjust to their home as he can be a bit fearful. He craves affection but needs to be taught that it’s safe and ok! He would thrive with a canine companion to help show him the ropes. He gets along with other dogs but is not sure about cats. He is house trained and has good leash manners. He is smart with a happy personality. He is up to date on all of his vaccinations and is very healthy. Athos is five years old and weighs forty pounds. Athos likes children above the age of 16 because sometimes he gets spooked by loud noises or fast movements. Athos is currently being fostered in Parsippany. If you are interested in adopting Athlos visit www.wiseanimalrescue.org/adoption-application
Athos
Positive Dog Training Professional Dog Walker Certified Dog Trainer - CDT Dog First Aid / CPR Certified Facebook page - Yess Dog Instagram: @yess.dog bark@yessdog.com (973) 577-YDOG (9364) Brian - Fully Insured -
January 2022
b
www.parsippanyfocus.news
Parsippany Focus Magazine l 27
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 211 Kingston Road Parsippany, NJ 07054 (862) 684-2215 wallservices@aol.com
Heating and Air Conditioning
(973) 599-1133 www.laurapetspa.net
1576 Littleton Rd Morris Plains
FREE FIVE PAGE WEBSITE Call Zoomus Marketing
(862) 295-1300 *Some restrictions apply
Advertise
Happy Paws House Calls Dr. Mandeep Mini Dr. Mandeep Mini Veterinarian
Here Call (862) 295-1300 for details
28 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
Veterinarian
-Vaccines & Sick Visits -Acupuncture -Chiropractic -International & Domestic Health Certs -Western & Holistic Medicine -Euthanasia Palliative Care
Call (862) 285-7799 www.parsippanyfocus.news
Photography for all ages and occasions. Head shots, Social: Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, Retirement. Corporate Events, Fundraisers, Product launches, Food, Advertising and much more.
(973) 216-9408
david@davidwarner.photos
January 2022
Your Local Network of Professionals Personal NMLS# 1718764; Guaranteed Rate #2611
4 Century Drive, Suite 150 Parsippany, NJ 07054 O: (973) 939-8676 C: (973) 713-8269 barbara.scalera@rate.com
Barbara Scalera
Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. For licensing information visit nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Equal Housing Lender. NJ – Licensed, NJ - Licensed in NJ: Licensed Mortgage Banker -
VP Mortgage Lending
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
Michael J. Scalera
401 Morris Avenue Springfield, NJ 07081 www.mikescalera.com
ChDC, CLU, LUTCF
Phone: (973) 564-7717 Fax: (973) 564-7719 mike@mikescalera.com.
This space is available Contact Parsippany Focus (862) 295-1300 David Rose (908) 219-9192
NJ Home Inspection License: 24GI00107700 NJ Radon certification Number: MET12870
January 2022
drose@astuteinspections.com www.astuteinspections.com 1234 Hollywood Avenue Plainfield, NJ 07060
www.parsippanyfocus.news
Parsippany Focus Magazine l 29
FAVORITE RECIPES
Balsamic Cranberry Chicken
4 Large Chicken Breasts 1 Bag Cranberries 1 Ounce Balsamic Vinegar 1 Large Sprig of fresh Rosemary (minced) 1 cup Brown Sauce 1 tsp Butter Flour for dusting (optional) ½ cup of Chicken stock Salt & Pepper to taste
non-reactive sauté pan. Cook 2 pieces of chicken at a time. When all are seared, remove excess oil, add butter, melt, and add balsamic vinegar. Swirl, add brown sauce and rosemary. Return chicken to pan and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and add chicken stock. Reduce and add cranberries. Serve with your favorite potato and vegetable. Enjoy!
Start by trimming excess fat from chicken and slice in half, lengthwise. Pound chicken breasts in between 2 sheets of plastic. Place bag of cranberries into small sauce pot, add 1 cup of water and boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, strain, chill and set aside. Flour the chicken, shake off any excess and sear in a
Chef Matthew Pierone, Gourmet Café Restaurant 136 Baldwin Road Parsippany, New Jersey (973) 316-0088 gourmetcafenj@comcast.net
30 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
COMMUNITY NEWS
Kiwanis Club is Distributing Free “Winter Children Jackets”
Dover Police Officer Ilmi Bojkovic, Kiwanis Lt. Governor Division 9 Frank Cahill and Kiwanis Past District Governor Gordon Meth receiving the delivery of over 300 Children’s Jackets
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany and Kiwanis Club of South Orange Maplewood have teamed up in the distribution of free Winter Children Jackets. “This has been an annual project, mainly supply jackets to the homeless. This year we decided to supply jackets to area children,” said Gordon Meth. The jackets are available in assorted sizes and styles. Both Kiwanis Clubs will schedule a day and location to pick up the jackets, and in some cases, our volunteers will be able to deliver them to your home. To obtain a jacket, please visit kiwanishelps.org and choose the Children Jackets tab, and fill out the form to reserve your jacket. While supplies last. NJ Kiwanis Lt. Governor Division 9 Frank Cahill said “Kiwanis has been there to help families during January 2022
hard times, especially during COVID-19. At Kiwanis, we want to ensure that all children have the opportunity to lead healthy, successful lives. We believe that by helping one child, you help the world.” “I believe in giving back to my community. That’s why I became a member of Kiwanis. When Kiwanis donated surgical masks to my department, I knew immediately I wanted to join a wonderful organization,” said Dover Police Officer Ilmi Bojkovic. Working together, members achieve what one person cannot accomplish alone. When you help improve a community or give a child a chance to learn experience, dream, and succeed, great things happen! For additional information contact Frank Cahill at (862) 346-5100. Visit kiwanishelps.org.
www.parsippanyfocus.news
Parsippany Focus Magazine l 31
ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES WANTED • • • • •
Advertising sales representatives are needed in the areas of Parsippany, Boonton, Boonton Township, Mountain Lakes, East Hanover, Hanover, and Florham Park. Make your own hours High Sales aptitude 100% commission on first monthly ad (some restrictions) and then 20% thereafter High volume of leads provided
Preferences will the given to candidates with proven abilities to help businesses and find the right multimedia advertising products to meet their needs through a combination of respected print and digital products. Professionally servicing and increasing sales revenue through new business development is a must.
Email resume to frank@zoomus.com
32 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
Where does Parsippany go for it’s news?
ParsippanyFocus.com Has Been Publishing for over 32 Years!
Over 20,000 readers relied on ParsippanyFocus for news on the Green Hill fire
To learn more about the advertising opportunities contact
Frank Cahill (862) 295-1300 Average Over 100,000 Readers Every Month
RESTAURANT REVIEW
Garibaldi Peru-Mex Restaurant: Popular and Diverse Cuisines (Continued from Page 14)
two thousand years. Yet, Mexican Ceviche still has many fans who would disagree. Typically, Mexican Ceviche is served with toasted chips and tomato sauce and uses shrimp, squid, or tuna. Peruvian Ceviche is less soup-like and served promptly on a plate after the fish marinates. All I can tell you is that the one we had tasted incredible and had great texture. I should mention that Garibaldi is BYOB. Always looking to bring along something to authentically compliment the meal, I opted to bring along an American-Style Lager, Cusqueña, an all-malt beer with a pale straw color, and one of the most popular beers in Peru. It was tasty and refreshing. My entrée was the Camarones a la Diabla, a very flavorful, juicy, spicy, tangy shrimp dish covered with a fiery, bright red chili chipotle sauce, with a side of white rice. As with all our dishes, it came with a nice presentation and stimulating fragrance. A nice-sized portion of medium-sized, perfectly prepared shrimp and rice. A succulent dish that I would happily order again. The Scoville heat scale in this dish may be a bit higher than some may like it so be careful when ordering. Everyone else in the group decided to go with a traditional Peruvian favorite, the Lomo Saltado. Lomo Saltado is a popular Peruvian dish, a stir fry that typically combines marinated strips of sirloin (or other beef steaks) with onions, tomatoes, French fries, and other ingredients; and is typically served with rice. One of the dishes was ordered with chicken in place of the meat. The feedback was extremely positive, and everyone enjoyed their individual dishes. The sides of
Jorge, Gloria and Patrick Minutillo
homemade hot, sweet, and mayo/horseradish sauces and dips were also a treat and really enhanced the meal. If they would bottle them, I would buy them. Dessert was a choice between Tres Leches Cake and Churros. We all chose the Tres Leches cake, arguably Mexico’s favorite dessert, along with a strong cup of coffee. This very moist sponge-type cake made from three kinds of milk (condensed, evaporated, and full cream) was jaw-droppingly delicious. A fantastic ending to a great meal. So, if you are looking for a casual, low-key, relaxing meal that packs a great punch, offers nice-sized portions of delicious food at reasonable prices, you might just want to stop in at Garibaldi Peru-Mex restaurant. In addition to hearty authentic dishes, they also offer Rotisserie chicken. I would encourage you to enjoy both Latin cuisines for yourself, your taste buds will appreciate it. As always, please remember to support all our local businesses. Buena comida, buenos amigos buenos tiempos! Closed Sundays – Dine In – Take Out- No Delivery – BYOB – No Outdoor Dining – Ample Parking. 11:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Ceviche Mixto Seafood 34 l Parsippany Focus Magazine
Garibaldi Peru-Mex Restaurant is located at 107 Route 46 East, Parsippany. (973) 808-7028. www.garibaldiperumex.com www.parsippanyfocus.news
January 2022
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”
January 2022
www.parsippanyfocus.news
Click to Download
Parsippany Focus Magazine l 35
Zoomus Marketing, LLC. 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 322 Parsippany, New Jersey 07054
PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID EDDM RETAIL
ECRWSS Local Postal Customer
WISHING EVERYONE PEACE, LOVE, AND AN, AMAZING 2022! We want to Thank all our
Buyers and Sellers of 2021. 33 SIOUX AVE 4 GLADES DR 29 TEMPLAR WAY 7 HENNION DR 8 SERGEANT CT 85 MARCELLA RD 107 BIRCH CT 121 ROESSLER ST 321 DANIEL ST 85 FAIRCHILD AVE ROSEVILLE RD 350 HALSEY RD 4 ROCK HOLLOW RD 187 SEDGEFIELD DR 19 CANTERBURY CT 1 ROCK RIDGE CT 212 FAIRVIEW PL 103 WHITE MEADOW AVE 215 FAIRCHILD AVE 124 REYNOLDS AVE 325 STOCKTON AVE 80 HAMBURG RD 48 ALEXANDER AVE 3 SACHEM RD 169 FLINTLOCK RD 1304 HAMILTON DR 15 FRANKLIN CT 5 WOOD DR 9 RUNNYMEDE CT 362 LAKE SHORE DR 3 IRVINGTON RD 172 LAKE AVE 40 TEANECK RD 219 KNOX WAY 29 EXETER ST 6 GLEN RD 514 ATLAS RD 3 CHANDLER TER 41 ROSSEVELT AVE 3 GLOEDE CT
IF YOU’RE PLANNING TO BUY OR SELL IN 2022 call The Martone Team
Your Neighborhood Real Estate Experts! ANDREA MARTONE & PAUL CRISTELLI
973-886-2626
973-214-3316
martoneteam@gmail.com Top 1% of Realty Executives Realtors®
PLATINUM AGENTS 973-887-0095
113 Parsippany Road Parsippany, NJ 07054
Each office is independently owned and operated. If your home is currently listed for sale with a real estate agency, disregard this notice. It is not our intent to solicit the offerings of other brokers.
