Parsippany Focus Magazine - October 2021 by Zoomus Marketing, LLC

October 2021

Howard Letts

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October 2021

Serving 53,515 Households of Parsippany-Troy Hills

Emerging from Crisis onto Brighter Days | 6

October 2021

It may be hard to believe, but 2022 is right around the corner. Our community, our country, and our world have experienced two years unlike any others. But I can say with confidence that we in Parsippany – our volunteers, civic and faith leaders, small business owners, and all of our residents – have led us through this crisis to make our township stronger than it was before.

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

Gazebo Dedicated To Longtime Parsippany Mayor Mimi Letts | 7

Parsippany residents gathered at Veterans Memorial Park to dedicate the gazebo to the woman who was instrumental in making both the park and the gazebo happen: Mayor Marceil “Mimi” Letts, the city’s first and only female mayor, who led the township from 1994-2005.

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New Goals for a New School Year! | 8

The beginning of every school year creates an opportunity to develop new goals. Of course, our primary commitment is to have a safe, healthy, and uninterrupted 2021-22 school year. The district also has a Strategic Plan that guides our decision-making in the areas of academics, students’ social and emotional experiences, and professional learning. At the September 23rd Board of Education meeting, these key goals were presented and approved for this school year.

Member of

Noodle Wong: Dim Sum Seafood Restaurant | 11

Always on the lookout for a new and interesting Parsippany dining adventure I found myself at the Noodle Wong Dim Sum Seafood Restaurant, located in the Arlington Plaza among a row of storefronts on the East side of the Plaza, a couple of doors away from Home Depot. I have never really sat down to a full Dim Sum and my research indicated that Noodle Wong was as authentic and traditional as they come.

Parsippany’s Justin Musella Named as #11 Top Millennial in State of NJ | 16

Parsippany’s own Justin Musella has been named to Insider NJ’s Power List of Top 100 Millennials. Musella was named #11 out of 100 prominent mover and shakers from all political parties.

Meet Poppy, a Happy Boy Who Loves to Walk! | 17 About Parsippany Focus Parsippany Focus was founded on October 1, 1989 by Publisher Frank Cahill. Parsippany Focus is the only dedicated newsource, publishing local news and information for the past thirty years exclusively for Parsippany-Troy Hills. Parsippany Focus Magazine is published monthly by Zoomus Marketing, LLC, 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 322, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 (c) 2021 Zoomus Marketing, LLC. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of the publisher.

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Poppy is medium sized adult Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix. Poppy would love a family with kids and a person who is home more often than not.

Envy Sports Club of Parsippany! | 18

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October 2021

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Emerging from Crisis onto Brighter Days “Let us move forward with strong and active faith.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt

Mayor Michael A. Soriano It may be hard to believe, but 2022 is right around the corner. Our community, our country, and our world have experienced two years unlike any others. But I can say with confidence that we in Parsippany – our volunteers, civic and faith leaders, small business owners, and all of our residents – have led us through this crisis to make our township stronger than it was before. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we worked together to keep Parsippany safe and thriving. Community groups such as Parsippany Supporting Our Town provided meals to our first responders. Our township Building Department worked with small businesses to cut fees and process permits in record time. I filmed daily video updates to keep every resident informed of the latest news and changes. Working together as a community, we collectively helped our local economy to get back to business, and avoided the broad economic disaster COVID-19 could have wrought.

resilience in the face of challenging times. We’ve also continued to improve our township’s quality of life and environment by continuing to stand up to big developers, preserving our natural lands, and attracting new small businesses. We have received grants from Morris County to acquire more open spaces and are currently working on opening trails at the Boonton Reservoir. Parsippany is leading the way in green infrastructure and sustainability. An engaged and informed citizenry is the foundation of our democracy. I am just a small part of what makes this township work. That is why I am so grateful for the hard work of every township employee, every community group, every faith congregation, and every resident. Without you, Parsippany would not be the community that it is. And because of you, I wake up every day grateful to be your Mayor.

We also continued work on vital issues such as public safety. The rollout of our police department’s body cam system has enhanced the safety of our police officers and the public at large. Many communities experienced an increase in crime during the pandemic. Here in Parsippany, crime is down. That accomplishment is no coincidence. Smart policies and strong community policing have kept our residents safer than ever before, and I would like to thank the men and women of the Parsippany Police Department for their 6 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

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October 2021

FEATURE STORY

Gazebo Dedicated To Longtime Parsippany Mayor Mimi Letts Parsippany residents gathered at Veterans Memorial Park to dedicate the gazebo to the woman who was instrumental in making both the park and the gazebo happen: Mayor Marceil “Mimi” Letts, the city’s first and only female mayor, who led the township from 1994-2005. Letts, who passed away in 2019, also served as a member of the Planning Board, presidents of the Board of Director of Parsippany’s Senior Citizen Housing Corporation, the Zoning Board of adjustment, the Historical Society, and the Kiwanis Club. She was instrumental in building Veterans Park, the main branch library on Halsey Road, and the Raoul Wallenberg monument. During the ceremony, Parsippany Mayor Michael Soriano called Letts a “fearless leader who got things done” and said she “invested her heart and soul into Parsippany.”

October 2021

“There will never be another Mimi Letts,” Soriano said at the start of the ceremony. “Thanks to her passion for improvement, and her steadfast determination, I’m honored to have called her not just a colleague, but a mentor to the end. Parsippany is a far better place because of her leadership, and dedicating this gazebo is long overdue.” The ceremony was attended by Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, Township Council President Michael dePierro, Township Councilmember Janice McCarthy, and former Parks & Forestry Department Director Joe Jannarone, Sr. The ceremony featured remarks from Letts’ friends, her sons Howard and Robert, and her husband Howard, and her twin sisters, Patricia Cohick & Kathy Loriso, who all remembered her as a force of nature who put aside partisan

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Parsippany Focus Magazine l 7

A Message From the Superintendent

New Goals for a New School Year! Dr. Barbara Sargent The beginning of every school year creates an opportunity to develop new goals. Of course, our primary commitment is to have a safe, healthy, and uninterrupted 2021-22 school year. The district also has a Strategic Plan that guides our decision-making in the areas of academics, students’ social and emotional experiences, and professional learning. At the September 23rd Board of Education meeting, these key goals were presented and approved for this school year. 1. Our district will create an innovative and rigorous educational experience in a borderless learning community that produces creative students who are problem solvers and self-directed individuals. • Revise and implement new curriculum in Literacy, Social Studies, Science, and Mathematics. • Continue our support for a 1:1 Chromebook initiative for students in Grades 5-12. • Continue to increase STEM opportunities at all grade levels. • Maintain the expansion of the district Strings program with the goal of providing strings instruction at the middle schools by September 2022. • Nurture the district’s partnership with NJIT with the prospect of expanding our students’ exposure to college-level instruction through additional courses. • Support the Transition Program special education students with work-readiness training. 2. All students will receive social and emotional support to become adaptable, confident citizens who embody self-awareness and strong interpersonal skills, capable of responsible decision-making and managing their emotions and behaviors. 8 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

• Initiate a comprehensive review of SEL and mental health programs for a middle and high school population. • Develop leadership and student voice opportunities at all schools. • Provide the necessary support to welcome all students back to classes in September 2021 and support children’s social-emotional well-being. • Guide all students to be independent learners. • Monitor, review, and revise the new School-Based Therapeutic Program. 3. Our community of adult learners will be fully engaged in professional growth experiences which enable them to continuously hone their craft and maximize student achievement. • Build the professional capacity of adult learners through collaborative and job-embedded professional learning. • Support the Danielson Teacher Evaluation Pilot and identify a single model for implementation district-wide in 2022-23. • Implement District Technology Plan, including providing equity and access to low-income and ESL students. • We’re grateful to the many hearts and minds that are working on these exciting initiatives. Teachers, school leaders, and university partners are enriching the school experience for all Parsippany students. Together with our supportive parent community, dedicated staff members, intelligent school leaders, and thoughtful Board of Education members, we are creating an educational experience that produces creative, self-directed, and purposeful students. The full presentation of the 2021-22 District Goals can be viewed at https:// www.pthsd.k12.nj.us/

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October 2021

FEATURE STORY

Gazebo Dedicated To Longtime Parsippany Mayor Mimi Letts (Continued from Page 7)

differences to improve the community she loved. “She didn’t go into politics to become a politician,” said Robert Letts. “This was just the next chapter in her story of helping the town she loved. She was willing to work with anybody – Democrat, Republican, people within the town, neighboring towns – they put politics aside at a time when politics, like today, were very partisan. But they were about getting things done. She was willing to work with anybody to help improve the town for everybody who lived here.” “She was a true trailblazer and a champion of women’s rights, and she was honest –what you see is what you get,” said her husband Howard Letts. “To my dear wife, partner, friend and

October 2021

lover, you made us all better people, and you will live in our hearts forever.” “When I was thinking about what I wanted to say, I looked back on the story of this 4 foot nothing Irish woman from Pittsburgh and the town she called home; Parsippany. There are so many chapters in this story about giving back to the town she loved. However, my mind kept coming back to one part that summed it all up: her retirement party,” said Robert Letts. When I attended the event, I had expected to find a room full of Democrats celebrating one of their own. I was surprised to find both Democrats and Republicans who came out to celebrate her. As I spoke to attendees and listened to their speeches, it was clear that despite a time of partisan politics, she had successfully worked with both Democrats and

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FEATURE STORY

Gazebo Dedicated To Longtime Parsippany Mayor Mimi Letts (Continued from Page 9)

Republicans within the town, in the surrounding towns, and across the state. They all talked about how they worked with mom to get things done for the citizens of Parsippany,” continued Robert Letts. That is really what her story in this town was all about. She did not get into politics to be a politician. She did not have grand political aspirations. It was all about giving back to this town that she loved and the people that called it home. You might wonder how she got her nickname. Her formal name was Marceil, named after her grandmothers. Margaret and Cecelia. When there was just her older brother David and Marceil, she, like all little sisters, wanted everything he had. She would always say, “Me, Me.” Their mother would say, “You’re such a Me Me,” thus the nickname, Mimi. “She was a great big sister. When she would leave her bedroom, we would sneak in, use her makeup and borrow her clothes, probably like lots of little sisters. But we never touched her MGB red convertible, that we left to our big brother, John, who one Saturday night sideswiped another car, parked it back in the

Howard Letts and Mayor Michael Soriano unviels the plaque at Veterans Memorial Park 10 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

Howard Letts “Mr. Mayor” with Mayor Michael Soriano

garage and feigned ignorance the next day,” said one of her twin sisters Patricia Cohick. If there was a cover to this story, I am sure there would be a gazebo on it. As we have heard, she loved gazebo’s. They are all over town, including in the family’s backyard. The reason she loved gazebo’s is that they are a symbol of a community. For her, this was another place for family and friends – for the community - to come together for celebrations. That is really what her story as Mayor of Parsippany was all about. Mimi we miss you. You did make Parsippany, The Place to Be.

Mimi’s Twin Sisters, Patricia Cohick & Kathy Loriso

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October 2021

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Noodle Wong: Dim Sum Seafood Restaurant Always on the lookout for a new and interesting Parsippany dining adventure I found myself at the Noodle Wong Dim Sum Seafood Restaurant, located in the Arlington Plaza among a row of storefronts on the East side of the Plaza, a couple of doors away from Home Depot. I have never really sat down to a full Dim Sum and my research indicated that Noodle Wong was as authentic and traditional as they come. We stopped in shortly after-

noon on a weekend. Not normally my style to eat so heavy this early in the day but traditional Dim Sum is served as a brunch type meal, late morning to lunchtime, served with ceremonial tea, which is considered just as important as the food and is normally done as a communal or social gathering of friends and/or family (Continued on Page 12)

Noodle Wong is located at 770 Route 46, Arlington Shopping Center October 2021

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

Noodle Wong: Dim Sum Seafood Restaurant (Continued from Page 11)

while sharing a diverse assortment of small dishes of Cantonese bite-sized foods over a long period of time. Dim sum dishes include an assortment of seafood, meat, and vegetable dishes that are prepared in various ways: steamed, fried, or baked. Noodle Wong offers 54 different Dim Sum dishes to choose from. True to tradition, Noodle Wong only serves Dim Sum from early morning up to 3 pm. Of course, in addition to Dim Sum, Noodle Wong has an extensive menu you can order from, including your classic soups, seafood, Congee, Fried Rice, Chow Mein, Pork, Chicken, Beef, Family Meals and House Specials. But, for this review, my focus was on the Dim Sum so the rest of the menu will have until another day. Now, if Dim Sum sounds familiar, you would be right, it is the Chinese version of Spanish Tapas. Only, and I apologize to my Spanish friends, Dim Sum has been around a lot longer. In fact, Dim Sum has a rich history and tradition that dates back thousands of years. Originating in southern China, specifically Guangzhou, Dim Sum, literally translates to ‘touch the heart’, and according to the myth that it was created by chefs of the Royal Court many centuries ago, to ‘touch the heart’ of Chinese emperors. You might also hear Dim Sum referred to by someone from China as “Yum Cha” which means “Drink Tea” and this dining is extremely popular in Hong Kong. Noodle Wong, formerly Noodle Chu, changed ownership in 2016, renovating the dining area at that time, providing an updated and more stylish appearance. The ambiance and décor are simple but cozy, casual, comfortable, clean, and airy. The open and spacious main dining area is complete with attractive lighting overhead and simple wall décor, creating an Asian vibe throughout. Noodle Wong, to me, is reminiscent of one of those Chinese eateries you will find on Mott Street in

The dining room is very spacious

NYC. The main dining area has plenty of seating available and all the tables are comfortably spaced. Noodle Wong also has another large, nicely decorated party room, complete with gold fabric seat coverings and white linen tablecloths, adjacent to the main dining room, with a smaller private room in the rear, either of which would provide a nice venue for a party or event. As we arrived, we were greeted by a very friendly Manager, Simon, who immediately offered me a nice-sized table along the wall. A waiter promptly arrived with a pot of black tea, cups, and chopsticks. We thanked him as we looked over the extensive list of Dim Sum choices. The Dim Sum checklist is in both Chinese and English, so it is easy to understand. TIP: I visited the restaurant and picked up the Dim Sum menu the day before and familiarized myself with some of the dishes. I was then able to check off the dishes I wanted prior to my arrival, and when I handed that list to the waiter those dishes quickly arrived at our table. This seems to be a full Chinese wait staff so communication may be a slight issue, but since you order Dim Sum by pointing at the items of your choice while metal serving carts continuously work the room it works out fine. The roll ing food carts, loaded with dumplings and plates of fried foods, also adds to the authenticity of this experience, but take note, they are only utilized on weekends. As you receive an item from the cart your bill is stamped, and you pay for the items you choose at the end of the meal. As for me and my guest, we ordered 10 different Dim Sum dishes and it turned out to be more than adequate for both of us. Of course, order as much as you like, but I would recommend that you try not to get carried away and over-order. The restaurant was fairly filled, and most customers were Chinese, which is a Chinese restaurant is always a good sign to me. The Chinese menu, the unique style of service, the never-ending tea, all added to the (Continued on Page 14)

Steam Custard Bun 12 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

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October 2021

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

Noodle Wong: Dim Sum Seafood Restaurant (Continued from Page 12)

experience. The dining room was buzzing, filled with people casually sharing food, enjoying themselves, and having lively conversations in a Chinese dialect (not sure which one) was fun to see. TIP: When you run out of tea just open the lid and put it aside. The waiter will quickly bring you a refill. When you want to say thank you, tap your index finger and your middle finger together on the table twice. That represents a bow. Our selections included Siu Mai (Pork with Shrimp Dumpling), Baby Spareribs with Black Bean Sauce, Beef Noodle, Spring Roll, Beef Short Ribs, Sticky Rice Siu Mai, Turnip Cake, Steamed Pork Bun, and Steamed Custard Bun (Sweet). Despite several trips to Hong Kong in my much younger days, I, unfortunately, am a novice at this style of dining, so it was difficult to choose from all the available selections, so I stuck with some of the most popular types of Dim Sum staples, which included steamed dumplings, buns, wraps, and noodle rolls; many filled with mixtures of fresh seafood, meat, and vegetables, as well as puffs, tarts, and puddings. They ended up being excellent choices as we totally enjoyed every dish that arrived from the Siu Mai (thin round cup-shaped wrappers filled with shrimp and pork), Har Gow (shrimp dumplings encased in a translucent wrapper), Xiaolong Bao (delicate soup dumplings), Charsiu Bao (pork buns), Cheong Fun (noodle rolls), or the Dan Tat (egg tart), a delicious, sweet, rich, custard-filled flaky pastry (very similar to a Portuguese custard pastry) that we ended our meal with. The Dim Sum was full of various textures and tastes and encompassed a collection of sweet, smooth, silky, and savory tastes depending on the individual dish. There is no rhyme or reason as to how to eat or mix your Dim

Pat Minutillo

Sum, just pick up your chopsticks and enjoy the xperience. So, if you are looking for a different, fun-filled, dining experience you can share with friends, family, or even alone for a satisfying brunch, this would be a good choice. Very friendly, helpful, and attentive staff in a casual and vibrant atmosphere, with moderate prices (depending on what and how much you order), along with a wide selection of great food. Like I always say, if you do not have the inclination or opportunity to travel to a foreign land, visiting some of Parsippany’s many diverse ethnic restaurants provides us with a great opportunity to truly experience a different culture through its cuisine. “The Chinese say it’s better to be deprived of food for three days than tea for one.” Thanks for supporting local businesses. Dine In – Take Out – Curbside Pickup – No Delivery; Open 7 Days a Week - No Liquor – Ample Parking. Comfort Food – Quick Bite – Vegetarian Options – Small Plates. Noodle Wong: Dim Sum Seafood Restaurant is located at 770 Route 46 West (Arlington Shopping Plaza), Parsippany. (973) 299-6518

Turnip Cake 14 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

By: Patrick Minutillo www.parsippanyfocus.news

October 2021

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October 2021

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Parsippany’s Justin Musella Named as #11 Top Millennial in State of NJ

Justin Musella

Parsippany’s own Justin Musella has been named to Insider NJ’s Power List of Top 100 Millennials. Musella was named #11 out of 100 prominent mover and shakers from all political parties.

He has attracted attention from GOP heavyweights such as NJGOP Chairman Hugin and Assembly Minority Leader Bramnick, who have headlined fundraisers for the young candidate.

According to the list, Musella is a rising star and a young Republican to watch.

A rising star, Musella is a young Republican to watch.

Musella is running for one of the open seats on Parsippany’s Town Council. The November 2 election will decide a Mayor and two Council seats for the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills. The young Parsippany Republican, a rising star, was the lone victor on his slate in the June primary, and has been barnstorming the battleground town as his council candidacy impresse insiders and observers. 16 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

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October 2021

PUPPY LOVE

Meet Poppy, a Happy Boy Who Loves to Walk! Poppy is medium sized adult Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix. Poppy would love a family with kids and a person who is home more often than not. Poppy is young so he is active. Not hyper but loves walks and playing. He is always up to be your walking buddy. Couch potatoes need not apply. He gets along with other dogs, but 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. Poppy is five years old and weighs forty pounds. The family downsized and new apartment will not allow pets, Poppy was surrendered with his ten year old buddy Fancy, a female Cocker Spaniel. If you are interested in adopting Poppy visit www.wiseanimalrescue.org/adoption-application

To adopt Poppy visit www.wiseanimalrescue.org

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 -

October 2021

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Parsippany Focus Magazine l 17

Envy Sports Club of Parsippany

Envy Sports Club located inside the Sheraton Parsippany Hotel in Parsippany has been safely welcoming back both members and guests alike since re-opening on October 1, 2020. With the club’s strict adherence to state COVID guidelines, Envy has noticed increased confidence in their clientele’s willingness to come back and renew their commitment to sustain their personal health and wellness. Fitness Center Capacity To Increased to full capacity on July 4th. When the club first opened the capacity for the gym and pool was at 25% due to COVID protocols. As COVID rates within the state decreased the capacity was then increased to 35% in February. As of March 19th the club was running at 50% capacity per state guidelines. The club was officially opened to full capacity in July of 2021. The indoor pool has been especially popular for members and

guests due to the fact there are very few indoor pools in the area that are currently open, especially hotel pools. Safety Standards In Place Envy puts your safety first when it comes to exercising.The safety standards that are currently being followed at Envy include hand sanitizer stations throughout the facility, as well as fitness equipment sanitizing stations that are conveniently located. Additionally, all machines are spaced comfortably apart, daily temperature checks are performed, a contact tracing system is in place, and all staff ensure frequent sanitization of high touch areas as well equipment being sanitized after each use. Safety partitions are in place at the reception desk and the club has also increased staffing to include club cleaners, pool ambassadors, and reservation and customer care representatives.

Puts Safety First Since Re-Opening Stop By And Check Out All That Envy Sports Club Has To Offer! Join the best gym in Parsippany! Our award winning health club and resort has a wide variety of cardio and strength training fitness equipment, personal training packages, a racquetball court, a yoga and stretch studio, an indoor and outdoor pool, jacuzzi tub, sauna, spa, and newly renovated locker room facilities. We are a proud veteran-owned business and offer gratitude to all who serve our community. That’s why we offer the lowest membership rates to veterans, city employees, educators, and first responders. Envy’s Continued Commitment To Your Wellness Goals Envy wants to reassure community members that the club has the necessary control measures in place so that everyone can exercise safely and with confidence. The benefits of regular exercise cannot be denied. Exercise bolsters the immune system, combats anxiety and depression, improves sleep and decreases stress. Making one’s physical health and wellness a top priority is more important now than ever. Feel free to call Envy Sports Club at (973) 560-5410 or text us at (973) 567-8035 so they can recharge your personal health and fitness goals today! As a local Parsippany small business, they welcome and appreciate members of the Parsippany community and want to assist each and every person in achieving and maintaining good health!

COMMUNITY NEWS

Spectacularly Spooky Halloween Trunk-Or-Treat

Get ready for a ghoulishly good time this Halloween as the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills’ Recreation Department and the Parsippany Municipal Alliance hosts the Trunk-Or-Treat Extravaganza at the Onyx Equities Campus located at 7 Sylvan Way/8 Campus Drive. This free event will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 31–rain or shine–and will feature treats, prizes, spooky music, and festive fun for all ages. Cars will line the parking lot with festively decorated “car trunks” to provide a fun place for children to come to trick-or-treat safely. The event will feature a costume parade for kids, trunk decorating contests, and plenty of candy for all the trick-or-treaters who attend. Groups, businesses, and individuals that would like to participate by having either a trunk or table – typically decorated with a Halloween theme – are also encouraged to register and take part in the event. The deadline to register is October 25 at 20 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

5:00 p.m. “We’ve been looking forward to putting this event on for months, and we can’t wait to celebrate the holiday with all our trick-or-treaters,” said Mayor Michael Soriano. “Thanks to our continued partnership with Onyx and the support of our Municipal Alliance, we can put together an event that’s safe, spread out, and most importantly, exciting and fun for the whole family.” “COVID has made us re-think how we celebrate these events in person, but with the help of our police department and emergency services, along with the large space Onyx is providing the Township we’re confident we can keep our guests safe so they can focus on having a great time with family and friends, said Sam Yodice, director of the Parsippany Police Athletic League.” For more information on the Trunk-Or-Treat Extravaganza, contact the Parsippany Recreation Department at (973) 263-7257, or email recreation@parsippany.net.

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October 2021

COMMUNITY NEWS

BettyLou DeCroce Sworn In as President of Parsippany Rotary BettyLou DeCroce was sworn in as President of Parsippany Rotary on Tuesday, September 21.

For more information on Parsippany Rotary Club visit https://portal.clubrunner.ca/15485.

In addition, Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi was installed as Vice President.

Rotary members can receive contribution credit by donating at rotary.org/donate.

Rotary District Officers installed all the new officers and presented a plaque to our outgoing president Venkat Bijala. Rotary brings together a global network of volunteer leaders who dedicate their time and talent to tackle the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. Rotary connects 1.2 million members from more than 200 countries and geographical areas. Their work impacts live at both the local and international levels.

For Advertising Call (862) 295-1300

Parsippany Rotary Club meets the first and third Tuesday at 7:47 a.m., at Parsippany IHOP, 792 Route 46.

“I’m proud we brought fiscal responsibility to Parsippany by ending the corrupt practice of raiding the water and utility funds to cover budget shortfalls. But there’s more to do, which is why I need Cori Herbig and Judy Hernandez on Soriano Town Council.” –Mayor Michael Soriano

RE-ELECT

SORIANO MAYOR MAYOR

ELECT

MICHAEL SORIANO

HERBIG CORI HERBIG JUDY HERNANDEZHERNANDEZ FOR TOWN COUNCIL COUNCIL FOR TOWN COUNCIL RE-ELECT

SORIANO MAYOR

ELECT

HERBIG HERNANDEZ COUNCIL Paid for by Team Soriano 2021 October 2021

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October 2021

COMMUNITY NEWS

Medicare Open Enrollment You will be able to make changes to your Medicare Part C (Advantage) and Medicare Part D (Drug) coverage starting on Friday, october 15 through Tuesday, December 7. Even if you are happy with your current coverage, it is wise to compare your plan with what will be available in 2022. This is especially important because plans CHANGE. Your premiums, covered drugs, co-pays, and other plan features may be different next year.

(973) 263-7352 to schedule an appointment. Parsippany Human Services is located at Parsippany Community Center, 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034

Our SHIP Medicare counselors John and Shelby are looking forward to assisting you through remote (telephone) counseling. Please call Gloria (973) 263-7351 or Stacey at

25th Annual Wine Tasting Thursday, October 21 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Proceeds from this event will beneﬁt charitable organizations of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation and Sons of Italy 2561 Wines, Spirits and Beers provided by

799 Route 46 East, Parsippany - (973) 402-1300

October 2021

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Visit KiwanisWineTasting.com purchase tickets $65.00 per person Must be 21 or over Includes hot and cold appetizers, buﬀet food stations and dessert stations Featuring

Craft Beer Hanover Manor 16 Eagle Rock Avenue East Hanover, New Jersey Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-proﬁt and a portion of the donation is tax deductible. Tax ID 010747988. Permit # 90576

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October 2021

COMMUNITY NEWS

Pumpkin Patch Train on Sunday, October 17 Join in the Halloween fun at the Whippany Railway Museum onboard “The Pumpkin Patch Train”! The 10-mile, 45-minute round trip from Whippany to Roseland and return is the perfect way to spend a Fall afternoon with the family.

mission to Museum Building and grounds and pumpkins for the children at the Pumpkin Patch). Visit whippanyrailwaymuseum.net for ticket information.

After each ride, children with valid train tickets can go to the Pumpkin Patch and pick out a free kid-sized pumpkin and receive a pumpkin decorating kit while supplies last. Children of all ages are encouraged to come dressed in their Halloween costumes, where they can mingle with our zombies and ghosts, helping to make the train a spooky sight! TRAIN FARE: Lackawanna 2454 Club Car: $22.00.; “Jersey Coast” Club Car: $20.00; Cabooses: $15.00; Infants (one year and under): Free (*NOTE: Train Fare includes ad-

October 2021

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SCHOOL NEWS

CCM Students Brighten Stage with Production of “Radium Girls” County College of Morris (CCM) is proud to welcome theater enthusiasts back to campus for a thoughtful and provocative performance of D. W. Gregory’s “Radium Girls,” this month. The Department of Music, Performing Arts & Music Technologies hopes to fill the college’s Dragonetti Auditorium for the first time in more than a year with an ensemble piece inspired by the true story of Grace Fryer, a watch dial painter for U.S. Radium Corporation, based in Orange, who fell ill with a mysterious disease. Performances of “Radium Girls” will be held October 21 – 23 at 7:30 p.m. in the Dragonetti Auditorium in the Student Community Center on the CCM campus, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. “The drama tells the story of strong females entering the workforce in the 1920s and facing unsafe work conditions and injustice within the workspace,” according to Acting Professor and Director Michael Donahue. “The overall theme is standing up for oneself and fighting for the big corporation to take responsibility for wrongs done.” It’s something both Donahue and Assistant Director Madisyn Mammon believe is still relevant to today’s

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modern workplace. The cast features Kayla Del Valle from Denville as Grace Fryer and Nicholas Meurer from Sussex as Arthur Roeder, Grace’s employer and adversary. Thirteen CCM students with majors ranging from Musical Theater to Nursing are involved in the production, according to Donahue. The “Radium Girls” were factory workers who contracted radiation poisoning when exposed to the luminous paint used to make watch faces glow. Donahue says the cast and crew are excited to share their interpretation of the story. “What I am looking forward to most is the thrill of a full live theatre,” he says. “There is nothing more exhilarating than seeing your cast thrive off of the energy of an invested audience.” General Admission is $15. Tickets for CCM students, alumni, children under 12, and seniors 62 and over are $10. For more information and to purchase online, visit https://bookstore.ccm.edu/current-shows/. Masks are required for everyone who comes to campus and social distancing guidelines are in place.

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October 2021

WHAT IF YOU’RE THE ONE? If you’re holding this magazine in your hands right now, you ARE the one. You’re the one who knows the importance of a strong education. You value your environment. You hold doors for people and offer a smile when someone holds one for you. You know people deserve to be happy, healthy and safe. We know how you feel because we feel that way too. And we know you’re the one. You’re the one who can change the world. Right now. Right this moment. How do we know? Because we know that everyone has that power within them. Really. You do. One simple act of kindness toward another changes the world. Can you imagine the power you’d have if you joined forces with others who are also the one? You are the one. It’s you. This is an amazing world. Let’s continue to make it better by helping children and families live their greatest lives. Join Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany at Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46 East, Parsippany on Thursday morning at 7:15 a.m. to learn how you can change the world. For more information visit www.parsippanykiwanis.org.

Visit www.parsippanykiwanis.org for meeting details

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October 2021

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FAVORITE RECIPES

Orecchiette Vodka- Carbonara Style

Serves 4 1 pound Orecchiette pasta 1 pound of bacon 1 medium onion, diced 1 pint heavy cream 2 cups pasta water 1 cup peas Grated cheese to taste 1 shot of Vodka 1 cup Marinara sauce Pepper to taste Bring 5 quarts of water to boil, add salt and a splash of oil, cook pasta for 10 minutes. Drain and oil pasta (reserve 2 cups of pasta water). Cook bacon on a baking sheet in the oven at 375, rotate the pan after six minutes, flip bacon and cook till crispy. Save a tablespoon of bacon fat. In a non-reactive sauté pan 30 l Parsippany Focus Magazine

cook the onions in the bacon fat, till browned. Deglaze with Vodka. Add 1 cup each of pasta water, marinara, and cream then stir and reduce down to sauce consistency. Chop bacon and add half along with peas, add pasta and toss over low heat. Add grated cheese & black pepper, adjust sauce thickness with remaining water, a little at a time. Serve in pasta bowls and garnish with remaining crispy bacon! Serve with Italian bread and enjoy! Chef Matthew Pierone, Gourmet Café Restaurant 136 Baldwin Road Parsippany, New Jersey 973-316-0088 gourmetcafenj@comcast.net

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October 2021

PARSIPPANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PACC Welcomes New Member: Delizie di Maria Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes new member, Delizie di Maria, Maria Messana. Delizie di Maria, established in December 2020, features authentic Sicilian street food and specialties, created from treasured family recipes. My family has been cooking and serving Sicilian food for over 70 years. As a child, I loved watching my mom cook. She always put so much passion into each dish which she carefully prepared with only the finest ingredients. Living in Sicily for 12 years, she also gained an up-close understanding of true Sicilian flavors.

October 2021

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Coffee With A Cop Held at Valley Bank

Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department held a “Coffee With a Cop” at Valley Bank, 800 Route 46. Pictured above is Remo D’Alessandro, Community Relations Officer: Parsippany Troy Hills Police Department

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October 2021

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