Parsippany Focus Magazine - January 2023

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

Design and Layout

Zoomus Marketing, LLC

90 East Halsey Road, Suite 304 Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 (973) 559-6000

Member of

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

Parsippany Focus Magazine is published monthly by Zoomus Marketing, LLC, 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 304, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 (c) 2022 Zoomus Marketing, LLC.

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

Health and Wellness 2023

This issue of Parsippany Focus Magazine focuses on Health and Wellness. Support our many advertisers that made it possible to bring such exciting features. Exercising regularly, every day if possible, is the single most important thing you can do for your health. In the short term, exercise helps to control appetite, boost mood, and improves sleep. In the long term, it reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, dementia, depression, and many cancers.

Envy Sports Club and Pool| Cover, 13

Relax and soak up the sweet summer feeling all year round at Envy Sports Club & Pools with hot tub and steam rooms. Included in a club membership, enjoy the oasis from open to close, seven days per week. Host your next get together poolside, book private or group swim lessons or join us for Aqua Aerobics. Outdoor pool open during summer months.

Message from the Mayor | 6

Let us together make 2023 a brighter new year. As I start my second year of being in office as your mayor, I have had time to look back on the past year and at the old and new faces I came back to.

Parsippany Schools Awarded for Outstanding Financial Reporting

| 8

One of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township School District’s Strategic Planning Goals is to provide support for social and emotional awareness for our students.

Las Leyendas (Leyendas de Mexico): Excellent Authentic Mexican Restaurant | 11

Now in the Parsippany area alone, because of our diverse population, the growing popularity of Mexican cuisine, and its appealing taste, you can choose any of several outstanding Mexican restaurants close to home.

Eastern Janitorial Awarded NJ Family Business of the Year |

22

Eastern Janitorial Company is a family business specializing in commercial facility services for businesses in New Jersey and surrounding states. Founded in 1977, Eastern is a secondgeneration family-run business currently employing hundreds of workers in the tri-state area. Eastern operates in three main divisions; Commercial Facility Cleaning and Supplies, Specialty Flooring and Surface Restoration, and Engineering/Handyman.

About Parsippany Focus

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

STRENGTH TRAINING IN YOUTH: Strength Training Philosophies, Programming & Research

By Luis Silva, Program Director, Performance Coach

Strength training is typically either a really exciting thing for an athlete and their parents, or a scary thing. Strength training for children can often be taboo: you’ve heard lifting weights can damage a child’s growth plates and they shouldn’t use weights until they are in high school. There is a lot of science that debunks those myths. Parisi understands the health and athletic benefits of getting your child stronger in a safe, controlled environment. Strength training can help protect your child from muscle and joint injuries while playing sports. It improves their strength, muscular power, endurance, and overall performance as well.

What the research says

We would never put an athlete at risk of injury in our facility. That being said, we strictly follow what the research says about strength training in athletes as young as seven years old. We implement weights, along with bodyweight exercises, in a professional, well supervised, and properly programmed environment. We don’t leave weight selection or load on the athlete up to chance.

Now, why should you trust your child to start or continue their strength training routine with Parisi Speed School of Morris? They have 30 years of experience as a company with an impeccable track record of keeping athletes healthy and making progress using the latest training techniques backed by science and our philosophies, Earn your weight, compound movements and “Pre-hab” movements.

Earn your Weight

This is the most important philosophy in their facility and the one most responsible for keeping athletes healthy. Athletes don’t progress on their weight until they’ve got proper technique; All athletes start light. They practice their technique and make sure they are capable of performing a movement safely.

Controlled, steady progress is essential in keeping your athlete healthy and also making sure they don’t hit a wall in their training too soon. If a high school athlete, for example, adds 5-10 pounds every week for three months, they will have made significant improvements to their strength.

If you have any questions about strength training for your athlete, please feel free to email Luis at Lsilva@parisimorris.com.

They look forward to helping your child become a healthier, stronger, more confident athlete!

Parisi Speed School of Morris is located inside the PAL Youth Center, 33 Baldwin Road.

Children’s author Roald Dahl once said, “If I had my way, I would remove January from the calendar altogether and have an extra July instead.” January is certainly a month that divides opinions. Some see the new year as a fresh start with new beginnings; a chance to leave the past behind and move forward to a brighter future. Some see it as bleak after all the sparkle of the celebrations for the holiday season; a dreary time to push through until spring arrives. Whichever way you may view the month, we all get through it with the anticipation that the days are slowly getting longer once again. And for those who love snow, skiing and skating there is no better time of year. While January can be a time for reflection and resolutions, it can also be a time to enjoy spending with your family during the cold days and nights. It’s an opportunity to consider everything you should be grateful for.

As I start my second year of being in office as your mayor, I have had time to look back on the past year and at the old and new faces I came back to. One thing I realized, is how fortunate we are to have Township employees that go the extra mile to assist our residents. I would be negligent if I did not express my gratitude to all the hardworking people who perform the daily operations of running the town. From the office staff to the workforce on the streets, Township employees are committed to our residents and to ensuring the best possible service and attention they can provide. Without their dedication and commitment to their jobs, Parsippany would not be recognized as one of the best places to live.

I am also extremely grateful for all of you, Parsippany’s residents. You are the backbone to our

community and the force that drives us, as elected officials, to do our utmost to make sure we are fulfilling our promises that made us worthy of your vote. I have pledged to lead by good government.

Many decisions I am faced with may not be easy or the most popular, but I know that my decisions are based on what I feel is what’s best for Parsippany. I have been faced with many challenges during the past year and have faced them head-on. I am looking forward to this new year, and I am determined to keep Parsippany as a best place to live. We have not received that honor for no reason.

We received it because of our residents and our ability to work together for a brighter tomorrow.

Let us together make 2023 a brighter new year. I wish all of you a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Mayor James R. Barberio

A Message

From the Superintendent

Community Service: Building A Stronger Self Through Volunteering

Dr. Barbara Sargent

One of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township School District’s Strategic Planning Goals is to provide support for social and emotional awareness for our students.

In addition to the district’s social and emotional learning curriculum, advisory programs, and student leadership initiatives, there is a renewed focus on embedding opportunities for community service in school activities. Research shows that volunteering boosts health and wellness in a variety of ways.

Community service opportunities abound in Parsippany! From toy drives to food drives to harvesting vegetables at Grow a Row, Parsippany students are finding that there’s no better way to spread cheer than to engage with service learning. Volunteering reduces stress, increases positive feelings, and reinforces a sense of meaning and appreciation. Our students gain so much when they gather together in support of a great cause.

Littleton Elementary School’s Student Council ran a Thanksgiving Food Drive to support the Interfaith Food Pantry. In total, students donated 1,363 items to the Food Pantry. The Parsippany Hills HS Choir and Key Club visited the Parsippany Community Center for caroling and socializing.

Here are a few other examples of the wonderful community service projects Parsippany students have taken on.

Parsippany High School’s Spanish Honor Society organized a toy collection for Saint Peter the Apostle Church.

The Parsippany Hills HS Student Council collected nearly a hundred toys and gift cards for the Battered Women Shelter. Shelter.

By Patrick Minutillo

I can recollect a time when excellent authentic Mexican restaurants were far and few between, often requiring driving some distance to get to that one special place. Not anymore! Now in the Parsippany area alone, because of our diverse population, the growing popularity of Mexican cuisine, and its appealing taste, you can choose any of several outstanding Mexican restaurants close to home. Better yet, give them all a try! The fact is that Mexican food is currently one of the most popular ethnic cuisines in the United States. Which eatery you consider the best is obviously a personal preference. And no, I am not referring to one of those numerous chain restaurants that line our highways. An interesting fact is that in the U.S., most Mexican restaurants, 70 percent, are family or independently-owned restaurants, and the other 30 percent are classified as chain restaurants.

One of those local areas premieres Mexican restaurants, Leyendas de Mexico, is located in one of those easily accessible, multi-business strip malls at the intersection of New Road and Route 46 East in Parsippany.

Initially, Las Leyendas de Mexico appears lost among the row of small businesses in the nondescript strip mall. Still, on entry, you are immediately met with a lively and energetic environment featuring bold, vibrant, and playful color schemes throughout the interior, creating a truly festive vibe. The carefully thought-out, cohesive décor incorporates many elements of Mexican, Aztec, and Mayan heritage and culture, with engaging, large colorful murals featuring various historical and cultural themes, such as Mexican luminaries as Emiliano Zapata and Pancho Villa. Assorted accent lighting and soft Mexican music help accentuate the tone and mood of the décor. A painted blue-sky ceiling, blended pink, cream, and yellow walls, red brick accents, orange-brown tile floors, Día de Muertos folk art, statuary, sombreros, wall and ceiling tapestries,

multi-colored tables, and rustic wicker chairs, all come together to provide diners with a casual, comfortable and is warm setting.

The layout is small and simple, with approximately ten tables, which can seat 35 people, but still manages to feel spacious and cozy while not feeling overcrowded. Natural lighting illuminates the dining room, enhancing the visual effects and dining experience.

First to arrive were several nicely sized servings

zesty

Las Leyendas (Leyendas de Mexico): Excellent Authentic Mexican Restaurant

Homemade Guacamole (fresh avocado, lime juice, red onions, cilantro, fresh jalapenos, and tomatoes, served with crispy tortilla chips).

of freshly made,

salsa accompanied by crunchy, crispy homemade chips

Lake Hiawatha Seniors Are Very Active

The Lake Hiawatha Seniors have existed for over 45 years!  They are always open to new members.  Meetings are held on the first and third Wednesday of each month at the Senior Community Center,1130 Knoll Road.  Meetings are from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.  Dues are $20.00 per person per year.

The main goal is to offer a place for our seniors to meet friends and enjoy some time out.  The club meetings consist of entertainment, trivia games, bingo, and other activities.  They often have speakers come in to discuss topics interesting to the group. In the past, they have had Mikki Sherill, Mayor Barberio, representatives from the Fire and Police departments, and the Parsippany Library. They delivered information important for the seniors, such as fraud, local activities available, and town issues.

This past year, the group offered many musical entertainers, including a DJ, for a little dance party!  On December 21, the Parsippany Hills Choir performed a Holiday performance.

Throughout the year, they hold holiday luncheons.  For example, at one of the November meetings, members paid $6.00 for a full Thanksgiving meal!

Feel free to contact the club for any additional information at LakeHiawathaSeniors@yahoo. com or stop by one of the meetings!

Meetings are held on the first and third Wednesday of each month

Las Leyendas (Leyendas de Mexico): Excellent Authentic Mexican Restaurant

tantalizing selection of many of Mexico’s favorite dishes. Latin and Spanish selections are also available, as are what appear to be creative Tex-Mex dishes to round out the menu. Appetizers included popular selections such as Leyendas Nacho Supremos, Quesadillas, Chimichangas, Tostada de Pata, and many other favorites. Typical Mexican and Tex-Mex fare includes Enchiladas, Tostadas, Flautas, Chilaquiles, Carne Asada, and Molcajete, among the many options. Assorted seafood dishes, soups, cemitas, authentic Tacos, and burrito grande are all tempting. No doubt, pretty much anything Mexican, Tex-Mex, or Latin American you might be in the mood for! Not to forget, their homemade desserts, including one of my favorites, Tres Leches Cake. It took some bantering back and forth among the group before settling our choices.

(Continued from Page 10)

There’s no doubt the inviting visual experience presented at Ley Leyendas de Mexico, despite its size, clearly sets a tone that enhances the dining experience. Notably, in a 2019 edition of Yelp, Leyendas de Mexico was listed as one of the twenty-four best Mexican restaurants in N.J.

After taking some time to peruse the artwork and enjoy the layout, my group was ready to sit down and enjoy some enticing, authentic Mexican cuisine. What makes food authentic is debatable, in my opinion. One source reminds one that the thing to remember is that the definition of “authentic” changes throughout history, so the food is eaten now is different from the food eaten a few hundred years ago. I guess this would apply to all the world’s cuisine. My research found that the most common ingredient in Americanized (Tex-Mex) Mexican food is yellow cheese. Yellow cheese isn’t Mexican. Often, in Mexico, they use “queso fresco,” which translates to “fresh cheese.” That is the primary difference between authentic Mexican and Americanized Mexican food. Just in case you were wondering.

We were seated immediately at a comfortable corner table as the very pleasant owner, Elvin Portillo Mazariegos, cordially welcomed us to the restaurant. I must admit our conversation was limited due to my unfortunate and limited ability to converse in Spanish. I was informed that Ley Leyendas de Mexico initially opened in 2016 and has been under the management of Mr. Mazariegos since 2020. Menus, water, and utensils quickly arrived as we discussed our dining selections. Ley Leyendas is a B.Y.O.B., so I could share some Modelo beer with our host during our conversation.

The menu is surprisingly diverse, complete with a

First to arrive were several nicely sized servings of freshly made, zesty salsa accompanied by crunchy, crispy homemade chips. The salsa and chips were the perfect preludes to our meal, and we were devoured quickly. Next, out came to our appetizers, which we all shared Homemade Guacamole (fresh avocado, lime juice, red onions, cilantro, fresh jalapenos, and tomatoes, served with crispy tortilla chips), Quesadillas (12” flour tortillas filled with melted tres queso, shredded lettuce, and a choice of spicy chicken, carnitas, Carne al pastor, chorizo or spicy ground beef). With its creamy texture, the mildly sweet, nutty taste of fresh avocado was delicious and refreshing and went perfectly with the homemade chips. The tender, crisp, crunchy, cheese flavored Quesadillas were also a treat; Ground Beef Chimichanga (a small burrito stuffed with spicy ground beef, cream cheese and shredded cheese, topped with homemade chipotle mayo), and Chorizo Con Queso (spicy Mexican chorizo mixed with diced tomatoes and red onions, topped with

The Mariscos Soup (spicy red sauce sautéed with shrimp, tilapia, mussels, calamari, and zucchini)

Ground Beef Chimichanga (a small burrito stuffed with spicy ground beef, cream cheese & shredded cheese, topped with homemade chipotle mayo)

Are Hot Tubs Good for Therapeutic?

Regular hot tub use has been found to ease muscle spasms and stiffness, resulting in less pain overall. This is known as a therapeutic technique called hydrotherapy, which harnesses the healing powers of heat, massage and buoyancy combined.

What is hydrotherapy? Simply put, hydrotherapy is the use of water to relieve discomfort and promote physical well-being. Hot tubs use powerful jets of warm water and air to massage the neck, shoulders, lumbar, legs and feet.

Depression can lead to other health issues, but hot tubs can help manage depression and help alleviate other health issues. When you soak in warm water it helps your body to release endorphins. Endorphins are a feel-good chemical that helps you feel contentment and release stress.

You should only spend 20 minutes in a hot tub. Since the water in a hot tub is higher than your normal internal temperature, staying in a hot tub too long can cause you to overheat and experience symptoms like light-headedness, dizziness, or nausea.

The hot tub located at Envy Sports Club and Pools has been found to ease muscle spasms and stiffness, resulting in less pain overall. Envy Sports Club and Pools is located in the Parsippany Sheraton, 199 Smith Road.

I finally got relief from my chronic pain!

Roberta L. of Morris Plains, NJ found herself living in constant pain. She felt as though she was walking on pins and needles, becoming weaker and weaker every day. “I was beginning to worry that one day I would be wheelchair bound.” Roberta’s story is all too familiar for the over 3 million people in the U.S. suffering from Peripheral Neuropathy (PN). When asked how PN was affecting her quality of life, she responded, “It is difficult to even walk up and down stairs and do other things we usually take for granted. My doctor told me I just had to live with the pain or take more medication for the rest of my life!”

Fortunately for Roberta, Restoration Health Acupuncture & Nutrition combines the time-tested science of acupuncture with technology originally developed by NASA to expedite recovery and healing of this debilitating disease. After a series of treatments, Roberta is taking stairs with stride!

If you’re living life in constant pain and discomfort, are experiencing burning, tingling, weakness or numbness in your arms, hands, legs or feet, or loss of balance or falling, Restoration Health Acupuncture & Nutrition can help!

The Pandemic Created Challenges for the Fitness Industry

What’s most interesting is that this desire has happened across all socio-economic classes. For example, it is true for those who have identified themselves as being financially precarious (66 per cent versus 47 per cent of those who say they are comfortable in their finances).

This presents the biggest opportunity for the fitness industry.

I believe the industry is at the cusp of a major boom—despite the looming economic downturn. Yes, people will tighten their belts as the economy slows, but after two years of the pandemic, fitness— mental and physical—has now gone from a luxury to a necessity. “The last few years have changed the way we look at our

health and the role the gym plays in our lives,” says Sara Hodson, President of Fitness Industry Council of Canada. “Beyond a doubt, we place tremendous value in how social con-

Why We Need The Gym

The pandemic has changed how we see and value our physical and mental health. For many, fitness is indispensable, based on three motivators.

Physical: Enhancing appearance; losing weight; gaining strength

Emotional: Managing stress; improving sleep

Social: Meeting new people; being part of the community

Trail Running 101

The sport of trail running is growing. Some folks are transitioning from the roads to the trails while others are taking up trail running as their introduction to running in general. Whether it is a desire to spend more time in nature or simply the need to mix things up, trail running provides a new challenge and plenty of opportunities to learn and grow. As with any new activity, the level of enjoyment one experiences correlates with the amount of confidence and competence one possesses. On one hand, it’s exciting to try something new and tackle a new challenge.

So how does one increase competence and confidence on the trails? Learning to trail run is like learning a new language. It’s different, yet familiar. It’s challenging, yet intriguing. It’s intimidating yet rewarding. And just as the best way to learn a new language is to immerse yourself into a new culture, the best way to

learn to run on trails is to run on trails.

If you are transitioning from the roads to the trails, I recommend some skill development drills or plyometrics to help prepare for the specificity of running on trails, but drills alone won’t be enough to feel confident or competent.

As you immerse yourself by regularly practicing the skill of running on trails and dedicating some time to practice the unique skills of running up and down hills on uneven terrain, your confidence and competence will increase. Adding strength training to your running routine can alsohelp prepare your body and mind for the demands of trail running.

Do your easy/recovery runs on trails for a mental and physical break from the pavement.

The Pandemic Created Challenges for the Fitness Industry

(Continued from Page 17)

What’s most interesting is that this desire has happened across all socio-economic classes. For example, it is true for those who have identified themselves as being financially precarious (66 per cent versus 47 per cent of those who say they are comfortable in their finances).

This presents the biggest opportunity for the fitness industry.

We believe the industry is at the cusp of a major boom—despite the looming economic downturn. Yes, people will tighten their belts as the economy slows, but after two years of the pandemic, fitness—mental and physical—has now gone from a luxury to a necessity.

The last few years have changed the way we look at our health and the role the gym plays in our lives. Beyond a doubt, we place tremendous value in how social connection positively impacts our health.

As much as fitness has become an essential part of everyone’s life, the choices for keeping fit have never been greater. At-home programs and equipment at various investment levels now directly compete with gym memberships.

Some have already invested in a home gym and are comfortable with it, not wanting to return to fitness centers.

People seek fitness for three primary reasons:

The treadmills at Envy Sports and Pool physical, emotional, and social. To cater to their clienteles’ needs, gyms must first understand their motivations and which factor is of utmost importance. For example, our research shows that people who feel insecure about their finances—especially as the economy turns around—indicate “fulfilling their emotional needs” as the top priority to be fit (31 per cent said yes versus 17 per cent said no to fulfilling their emotional needs. The balance had no comment).

Conversely, folks who feel secure about their finances prioritize physical reasons to go to the gym (64 per cent of financially comfortable folks prioritize physical motivators).

The issue of competing with home-gyms is at the top of the to-do list. Once again,

What you get at the gym is more than a workout. You get community, accountability, and human connection.

Eastern Janitorial Awarded NJ Family Business of the Year

The Rothman Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Farleigh Dickinson University has named the Eastern Janitorial Company it’s Family Business of the Year for 2022. The award was presented at Rothman’s 30th annual awards program held recently at the Upper Montclair Country Club in Clifton. Based in Parsippany at 1915 Route 46, the Eastern Janitorial Company is a family business specializing in commercial facility services for businesses in New Jersey and surrounding states.

Founded in 1977, Eastern is a second-generation family-run business currently employing hundreds of workers in the tri-state area. Eastern operates in three main divisions; Commercial Facility Cleaning and Supplies, Specialty Flooring and Surface Restoration, and Engineering/Handyman Services.

The New Jersey Family Business Awards recognized 11 companies for their innovative strategies and business practices that have had a positive impact on the state and local economy as well as society in general. Eastern was chosen as “Family Business of the Year” based on its work to support its employees, the community, and their commitment to sustainable growth. “Throughout the years, our

customers have appreciated us for always putting their needs first,” said Nick Rafanello, Eastern’s CEO, “We are relentless in saying ‘yes’ to customer requests and finding creative solutions to their unique challenges. This ability to provide unmatched and prompt solutions for our customers didn’t happen by chance, but through the loyalty of our dedicated family and family-like staff who are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.”

Part of Silberman College of Business since 1989, the Rothman Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship supports, promotes, and researches entrepreneurship with a special focus on family- and veteran-owned businesses.

Eastern Janitorial Company is a facility services company is in Parsippany. Eastern is a secondgeneration NJ-based family business with a legacy that began as R&R Maintenance in 1977. Eastern has grown substantially over the past decade, organically and through acquiring various strategically positioned peers. Eastern Janitorial’s success results from our unwavering focus on a single, simple guiding principle – find the best people, train & support them with the latest industry tools and practices and treat them like family.

Ari Amador, Ron Rafanello, Dr. Dale G. Caldwell, Linda Rafanello, Rocco Rafanello, Nick Rafanello, Terry Rouse, Nicole Rafanello and Joan Fitch

Three Atlantic Health System Medical Centers get ‘A’ Grade for Safety

Atlantic Health System, an integrated care delivery system in New Jersey committed to building healthier communities, today announced that three of its hospitals, Morristown Medical Center, Overlook Medical Center and Chilton Medical Center all earned the highest possible safety rating of ‘A’ by The Leapfrog Group in its Fall 2022 Hospital Safety Grades.

“Every patient who trusts us with their care, can do so knowing that their safety is our top priority” said Scott Leighty, Executive Vice President and Chief Health System Officer, Atlantic Health System. “Congratulations to the exceptional physicians, nurses, leaders and other team members across each of our medical centers and thank you to The Leapfrog Group for this recognition.”

The Leapfrog Group, an independent national watchdog organization, assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D,” or “F” grade to general hospitals across the country based on over thirty national performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as systems hospitals have in place to prevent harm.

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is the only hospital ratings program based exclusively on hospital prevention of medical errors and harms

to patients. The grading system is peer-reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. Grades are updated twice annually, in the fall and spring.

“I applaud Atlantic Health System’s leadership and workforce for their strong commitment to safety and transparency,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “An ‘A’ Safety Grade is a sign that hospitals are continuously evaluating their performance, so that they can best protect patients. Their hospital teams should be extremely proud of their dedication and achievement.”

All of Atlantic Health’s ‘A’ graded facilities have earned top marks for consecutive scoring periods including Morristown Medical Center’s maintained ‘A’ Grade since Fall 2015, Chilton Medical Center’s consecutive ‘A’ since Fall 2018 and Overlook Medical Center’s ‘A’ since Spring 2021.

Developed under the guidance of a national Expert Panel, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,700 U.S. acute-care hospitals twice per year. For more information about the Hospital Safety Grade and a detailed explanation of the scoring methodology, please visit www.HospitalSafetyGrade.org.

Shear Perfection Salon Celebrates Grand Opening

Mayor James Barberio cuts the ribbon during the grand opening celebration. Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill presented a plaque and welcomed the new business to Parsippany. The new boutique-style salon, SHEAR PERFECTION SALON, is now open at 83 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha.

This new feature of Parsippany Focus magazine will highlight “then and now” photographic series entitled “The Passage of Time.” Longtime resident Stephen Pellegrino is our contributing editor of this new feature. If you have any photos that you might want Mr. Pellegrino to consider, please send them to news@parsippanyfocus.com

Aerial photos show that Storybook Farm, with its whimsical, colorful displays thrived in the 1950s and ‘60s, but was gone by 1970. There was also a drive-in movie theatre behind it.

Storybook Farm was a fairytale children’s attraction located on Route 46 (once known as Route 6) just east of Beverwyck Road next to the Condit farm.

Top Quality Food Market

In the 1970s and ‘80s, new commercial buildings went up, and today it is the site of Top Quality Food Market. Shop Rite is visible in the distance (far left). High tension lines from the right-of-way are visible in both photographs, but the towers have been changed. It is certain that very few people who drive past or pull in to shop here have any idea such a fanciful place once existed at this location.

Zen Dental Care Celebrates Grand Opening

10,Suite 105, Parsippany.

Dr. Sheren Elsaid spent two years planning and designing her newly opened dental practice. Zen Dental Care is designed to help relieve dental anxiety by focusing on using distraction methods involving sight, smell, and sound. When you arrive at Zen Dental Care, you will be greeted by a friendly team and can choose from a comfort menu. Items such as aromatherapy, warm blanket, noise-canceling headphones, TVs on the ceiling, and laughing gas are available. The office colors are warm and inviting, and the entire team is there to help make your dental visit as pleasant as possible.

Route 10, Suite 105.

Zen Dental Care held a grand opening ribbon-cutting celebration. Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio cut the ribbon with Dr. Sheren Elsaid. Also attending were Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilmen Frank Neglia, Justin Musella, and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso and Board Members Ildiko Peluso and Nicolas Limanov. The event was also attended by many friends and family members.

Zen Dental Care is located at 2200 Route

Dr. Sheren Elsaid earned her Bachelor’s degree from CUNY Hunter College in Psychology and earned her dental degree from Temple University. Dr. Elsaid then completed her Advanced Education in General Dentistry through NYU Langone Dental Medicine Program. Dr. Elsaid is dedicated to her patients and continues to take extensive continuing education courses to advance her skills and remain up-to-date with dental advances. Dr. Elsaid is a general dentist and practices all phases of dentistry. Services provided at Zen Dental Care include tooth-colored fillings, root canals, extractions, veneers, implants, and much more.

Dr. Elsaid also remains committed to giving back to her community. Zen Dental Care has partnered with Cornerstone Family Programs/ Morristown Neighborhood House (CFP/MNH). For every new patient seen at Zen Dental Care, a portion of the proceeds with be donated to CFP/MNH to allow them to provide a much-needed, healthy, nutrient-rich meal to one of their students. Zen Dental Care believes in Cornerstone Family Program’s mission and is dedicated to helping make a difference.

Zen Dental Care is a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio cutting the ribbon at the grand opening celebration at Zen Dental Care, 2200

Parsippany Economic Development presented Zen Dental Care with a plaque welcoming the new business to Parsippany.

Today’s Life Expectancy Has Been On The Rise

People worldwide are living longer. Today most people can expect to live into their sixties and beyond. Every country in the world is experiencing growth in both the size and the proportion of older persons in the population.

By 2030, 1 in 6 people in the world will be aged 60 years or over. At this time the share of the population aged 60 years and over will increase from 1 billion in 2020 to 1.4 billion. By 2050, the world’s population of people aged 60 years and older will double (2.1 billion). The number of persons aged 80 years or older is expected to triple between 2020 and 2050 to reach 426 million.

While this shift in distribution of a country’s population towards older ages – known as population aging – started in high-income countries (for example in Japan 30% of the population is already over 60 years old), it is now low- and middle-income countries that are experiencing the greatest change. By 2050, two-thirds of the world’s population over 60 years will live in low- and middle-income countries.

Common conditions in older age include hearing loss, cataracts and refractive errors, back and neck pain and osteoarthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, depression and dementia. As people age, they are more likely to experience several conditions

at the same time.

Older age is also characterized by the emergence of several complex health states commonly called geriatric syndromes. They are often the consequence of multiple underlying factors and include frailty, urinary incontinence, falls, delirium and pressure, ulcers, multiple underlying factors and include frailty, urinary incontinence, falls, delirium and pressure ulcers.

Globalization, technological developments (e.g., in transport and communication), urbanization, migration and changing gender norms are influencing the lives of older people in direct and indirect ways.

Journey of Weight Loss Surgery

is a FREE ONLINE community series which provides accurate, trusted, and current information on health issues.

Watch on Facebook at @SaintClaresHealth or YouTube on January 19 at 7:00 p.m.

Obesity is very common in the U.S.; the Center for Disease Control (CDC) conducted a survey that revealed about 40 percent of adults in the U.S. had obesity in 2015-16.

St. Clares Hospital - Denville will host a seminar on “Journey of Weight Loss Surgery.”

Listen to Ken Mooney share his bariatric success story and the positive support he received at Saint Clare’s Health.

Hosted by Brian Finestein, Chief Executive Officer of Saint Clare’s Health, ‘Let’s Talk Health’

A person is classified as having obesity and may be referred to as a bariatric patient when they have a body mass index (BMI) that is equal to or greater than 30. BMI is used to measure weight in relation to height.

Register for Facebook event: https://fb.me/e/5bXZLSVat

Have a question for the provider? Email: SCNJCommunications@primehealthcare.com. St. Clares Hospital is located at 25 Pocono Road, Denville.

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:

Combine with a handheld blender. Pour liquid mixture over the bread and gently mix, pour into a Pam sprayed 9X13 inch Teflon pan. Dot the top with the chips and press lightly into bread mixture, half the raspberries and add. Bake for 60 minutes in a 325 oven. Let cool and cut into rectangles. Serve with Ice cream and raspberry sauce.

Chef Matthew Pierone, Gourmet Café Restaurant 136 Baldwin Road Parsippany, New Jersey (973) 316-0088 gourmetcafenj@comcast.net

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melted Oaxaca cheese, served with a side of corn or flour tortillas.) Every individual dish was oozing with fresh, amazing, delicious flavor.

The Mariscos Soup (spicy red sauce sautéed with shrimp, tilapia, mussels, calamari, and zucchini) preceded our

Restaurant

entrees. A very well-prepared seafood selection, tasty and perfectly seasoned.

As a group, we were not that diverse in our entrée selections on this date. A few of us, including myself, opted for Parrillada Mixta (Grilled chicken breast, steak, shrimp, and chorizo, served with cactus, rice, and beans). In contrast, the others opted for the Churrasco Steak (Skirt steak marinated with homemade chimichurri sauce, served over grilled veggies, rice, and beans). The mixed grill of meats and seafood in my Parrillada Mixta was perfectly cooked and seasoned. It was a satisfying and delicious ending to a very pleasing dining experience. The group members who ordered the Churrasco Steak were equally pleased with their meal. Despite the appealing choice of desserts, we were all stuffed and unable to go any further, so my Tres Leches Cake will have to be put off until my next visit.

As you may be aware, there are two sister Ley Leyendas de Mexico restaurants in the general Parsippany area, one in Boonton and one in Morris Plains. This review is for the Parsippany location only. I’m pretty sure you will put it on your restaurant rotation.

Buena comida, buenos amigos, buenos tiempos

Las Leyendas (Leyendas de Mexico) is located at 71 New Road, Parsippany.(973) 287-7060 leyendasrestaurante. com.Closed Mondays – Dine In – In-Store PickupCatering Available

BYOB (Wine and Beer only) - Vegetarian Friendly –Off-Street Parking. Mexican, Latin, and Spanish Cuisine.

Las Leyendas (Leyendas de Mexico): Excellent Authentic Mexican

Patrick Minutillo and Elvin Portillo Mazariegos