In a heartwarming celebration to honor Fred Damiano and his service center, Mayor Conley, along side of Fred and Frank Zara, tied a ribbon to commemorate the wrapping up of a wonderful 47 year career. Damiano's Service Center located at 124 Park Ave. has been an essential part of the Madison community and the town of Madison and their dedication and service are highly appreciated.
MADISON — In a touching tribute to Fred Damiano and his service center, Mayor Conley joined Fred and Frank Zara in a ribbon-tying ceremony, marking the end of Fred’s impressive 47-year career. Damiano’s Service Center at 124 Park Avenue has been a cornerstone in the Madison community, and the town greatly values its commitment and service.
Beyond his business, Freddy played a pivotal role in organizing the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce / PBA #92 Car Show for three decades. Along with his wife Maryanne and Frank, he ensured the success of this prominent event. Moreover, Fred’s spirit of giving was seen in his voluntary efforts, including offering his flatbed for the annual Christmas Parade, emphasizing his dedication to spreading cheer during the holiday season.
Fred and Frank’s unwavering service, devotion, and philanthropy have left an indelible mark on the community. Their legacy will be remembered and cherished in Madison for many years.
MORRIS COUNTY – The Morris County Mosquito Commission has announced that it will use an All-Terrain vehicle to treat a section of woods in Morris Plains Borough and Whippany Monday morning.
The mosquito spraying will go on from 4:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on Monday, July 24, weather permitting.
The following areas are scheduled to be treated:
Morris Plains: Jim Fear Dr (Community Park Pool) Jason.
Whippany: Pond Rd (Brickyard Field) Melissa.
The commission will be using Anvil 2+2, active ingredient Sumithrin, EPA#1021-1687-8329 or Zenivex E4, active ingredient Etofenprox, EPA#2724.
The commission will also use a truck-mounted sprayer to treat streets in Lincoln Park Borough, Florham Park Borough, and East Hanover Township Monday night.
The mosquito spraying will go on from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. on Monday, July 24, weather permitting.
The following areas are scheduled to be treated:
Florham Park: Northridge Dr, Vreeland Rd, and Florham Ave.
East Hanover: Oakwood Rd, Ridge Rd, Belmont Dr, Fieldstone Ct, Hillside Dr, Mount Pleasant Ave, Selmar Terrace, Anita Dr, Lauretta Ct, Bernadette Ct, Marhill Ct, Timberhill Dr, Tanglewood Dr, Tuscan Pl, Tower Dr, Tremont Dr, Tilden Dr, Trinity Pl, Helen Ct, Mann Ave, South Ridgedale Ave, Deanna Dr, Kimberly Ct, Heather Dr, Kristi Dr, Alexandria Dr, Alexis Ct, Sheldon Ct, Brentwood Dr, Afton Terrace, Parkside Dr, Colonial Way, Parkside Dr, Great Meadow Ln, Carolyn Ct, Yvette Dr, Country Club Ln, Silver Spring Court, Berkely Court, Elkton Terrace, Nina Dr, Oaklawn Dr, Drake Ave, Klinger Rd, Balsam Ave, Callahan Ave, Peach Tree Ave, Cottage Pl, Homestead Ave, Harvest Ave, Maple Ave, Maple Ct, Orchard Pl East, Ridgedale Ave (Old Hanover Airport), North Ridge Circle, Phyldan Rd, and Pollis Dr.
The commission will be using Anvil 2+2, active ingredient Sumithrin, EPA#1021-1687-8329 or Zenivex E4, active ingredient Etofenprox, EPA#2724-807, Pesticide Applicator License Number 20262B.
For more information, click here or call (973) 285-6450.
Pho Ninh Kieu (Vietnamese Noodle & Grill Restaurant) is located at 73 New Road, Parsippany; (973) 521-9900; Click here to view the website.
MORRIS COUNTY — In January 2020, never anticipated three months later, in March 2020, an emergency declaration would cause the implementation of COVID shutdowns and the tremendous hardships that would create for the restaurant industry. Pham Hieu took a chance and acquired ownership of Pho Ninh Kieu, a previously established Vietnamese restaurant, as his first venture into Parsippany’s diverse culinary scene. Fortunately for Mr. Hieu and Parsippany, the restaurant struggled through those tough days and is now a fixture in the community.
The interior, with approximately 12 tables spaced comfortably throughout the dining area, establishes a cozy, casual, intimate, and warm atmosphere.
Pham Hieu, originally from South Viet Nam, arrived in America, along with his parents and siblings, several years ago. Armed with his enterprising spirit, his mother’s home recipes, and a desire to share his homeland’s cuisine, he renovated and redecorated the small eatery to create the ambiance and vibe specific to the cuisine. His mother’s recipe for Pho, where bone marrow is cooked for ten hours every day, is one of the highlight dishes of Pho Ninh Kieu.
Like so many wonderful little eateries in our area, Pho Ninh Kieu is tucked away alongside a row of other businesses in a small strip mall on New Road at the intersection of Route 46 West. Look for the bright, glass front exterior, with the large white and red signage announcing Pho’ Ninh Kieu, Vietnamese Noodle and Grill Restaurant.
Pork Chop and Shrimp Lemongrass with Bell Pepper
The interior, with approximately 12 tables spaced comfortably throughout the dining area, establishes a cozy, casual, intimate, and warm atmosphere. It is immaculately clean, comfortable, and well-designed. Pleasant ambient lighting from the large front windows, aesthetically pleasing laminated wooden tables, matching chairs accentuated with white brick façade walls over softwood paneling, a brick hostess counter, appealing, bright tile flooring, and of course, ethnic artwork, ceiling hangings, architecture, and artifacts all help to enhance a great dining experience. One standout focal point that attracts the eye is a beautiful, large painting of the province of Ninh Kieu, carefully placed along the center wall of the restaurant. Ninh Kieu is a waterfront district in Can Tho, in southern Vietnam, and was the home of the prior owner of Pho Ninh Kieu. When Pham Hieu saw the painting, he was so impressed that he retained the establishment’s name.
Fried Crispy Squid (Floured, Lightly Frede with Sweet and Sour Sauce)
The service was exceptional. On entry, our host/waiter, Kevin, the owner’s brother, was extremely friendly and welcoming. It immediately made our group feel at home. Menus, tableware, and water was brought expeditiously. As usual with this group, there was a lot of discussion and questions for our waiter, Kevin, who was happy to answer all our questions and seemed to enjoy talking with us. The restaurant was well-occupied, yet the service was quick, attentive, and professional throughout our meal. And don’t forget to bring your favorite beer or wine, as Pho Ninh Kieu is BYOB. For the occasion, I found a nice Saigon Lager Beer at Joe Canal’s Discount Liquor Outlet, a nearby liquor store.
When most people think of Vietnamese food, they think of Pho (pronounced “fuh”) and Bahn mi sandwiches. Great examples for sure, but there is much more to Viet Nam cuisine, which like most cultural foods, can be distinguished by the region of the country where it originated. Plus, with the influence of China and France during their colonization, Vietnamese cuisine became even more enriched and diversified. Besides the cuisine’s deliciousness, most Vietnamese food is harmonious, healthy, light to eat, colorful, and very diet friendly.
Eggrolls
The most well-known Vietnamese cuisine is pho (“fuh”), a hearty broth served with rice noodles and toppings that include bean sprouts, limes, fresh basil or cilantro, and peppers, which was my choice for this visit. Additional fresh herbs, bean sprouts, basil, peppers, and limes arrived as a side dish to the Pho so that you can customize your dish to your taste. I added everything to the broth and loved it. The key to a good pho (besides the 10-hour cooking time I mentioned earlier), I am told, is a perfectly spiced, highly aromatic, simmering broth with deep, intense flavor. The texture and bite of the fresh noodles and vegetables, which filled my generously sized bowl, were perfectly complemented by those fresh herbs, bean sprouts, limes, Thai basil, and peppers. My choice of the House Combo came with a combination of an eye of round, flank, brisket, beef ball, tendon, and tripe, which, when cooked in the Pho, completed this flavorful dish and was a delicious and delicate culinary delight. Of course, you can customize your dish with your choice of pork, beef, chicken, or a fish base, as well as the level of spiciness of your dish. As I’ve said many times, I prefer my food on the spicy side, so in this case, I added some hot pepper sauce, which is on the table, to kick it up a bit. You will find that the flavors of the broth deepen and intensify the further down you go in the bowl. This savory dish did pack a punch!
Pork Dumplings
For appetizers, the group shared some shrimp summer rolls, pork dumplings, pork and chicken eggrolls, fried crispy squid (floured, lightly fried, with sweet and sour sauce), and grilled lean pork banh mi (a short baguette with a thin, crisp crust and soft, airy texture). You won’t go wrong ordering any one of these; all savory and flavorful.
Grilled Lean Pork Banh Mi
Entrees included Pork Chop & Shrimp Lemongrass (lemongrass imparts a flavor of lemon with hints of ginger, with floral and minty notes) with Bell Pepper, Eye of Round & Tripe Pho, Beef Lemongrass with Bell Pepper, and my selection of the House Combo Pho dish. Tableware included quality chopsticks (wrapped), Asian soup spoons for your pho, hot pepper sauce, and Hoisin Sauce (a sweet and slightly salty dipping sauce). Remember, the pepper sauce is hot, and try not to go overboard with the Hoisin Sauce, as a little goes a long way.
Whether you are a long-time fan of Vietnamese cuisine or trying it out for the first time, I’m confident you will enjoy adding Pho Ninh Kieu to your culinary journey for a new and exciting dining adventure.
Beef Lemongrass with Bell Pepper
Relaxed, strip-mall nook offering pho & other Vietnamese sandwiches & entrees to eat in or take out.
MORRIS COUNTY — Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, representing New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District, has officially initiated the application process for students aspiring to be nominated for a U.S. military service academy in the upcoming year.
Encouraging students interested in military careers, Rep. Sherrill emphasized the tremendous value of attending these prestigious institutions. Having graduated from the Naval Academy herself, she understands the academic and physical challenges that lie ahead for future military leaders. These service academies provide a solid foundation for their future careers in the military.
Aspiring candidates from the 11th Congressional District can now apply for a service academy nomination, with the application window open until October 26.
High school seniors and college students within New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District have the opportunity to apply for nominations to the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Air Force Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The nomination application process is also available for college students seeking to transfer into one of these prestigious institutions. It’s important to note that students require a nomination to be appointed to attend these academies, except for the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, which does not require a Congressional nomination.
Due to the limited number of nominations available each year, the process is fiercely competitive. Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill can only offer a select number of nominations, making the competition even more challenging. Additionally, receiving a nomination does not guarantee an appointment to attend an academy, as only a fraction of nominated students are ultimately appointed. Aspiring candidates must showcase exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, and a strong commitment to serving their country to increase their chances of securing a coveted appointment.
Due to the high number of qualified applicants, the Congresswoman holds a competitive application process that considers the academic, athletic, and extracurricular activities and community involvement of candidates who apply. In addition, every candidate is interviewed by Rep. Sherrill’s Academy Nomination Board which consists of Academy alumni, military veterans, and civic leaders from the community.
Click here for more information and to complete an application.
Call Rep. Sherrill’s office at (973) 526-5668, or email the NJ-11 Academy Nomination Coordinator at willy.tolba@mail.house.gov.
The Township of Hanover has a Township Committee form of government comprising five members.
Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, Mayor
Michael A. Mihalko, Deputy Mayor
Brian J. Cahill, Committeeman
John L. Ferramosca, Committeeman
Ronald F. Francioli, Committeeman
HANOVER — On Tuesday, July 18, township officials gathered together at Veterans Memorial Park to dedicate the Naval deck gun in memory of the late George Coppola, former Township Committeeman. George Coppola, a respected figure and commander of Robert C. Gulick Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5351 and a proud member of Elizabeth Ann Seton Knights of Columbus, passed away on Saturday, April 15.
Having served as a dedicated Republican on the Township Committee from 2009 to 2018, Coppola left a lasting impact on the community he served. The dedication ceremony was a heartfelt tribute to his contributions and service to the township.
During a heartfelt dedication ceremony, the Naval deck gun at Veterans Memorial Park was officially named the George F. Coppola Navy Deck Gun Plaza. The ceremony honored the late George Coppola, former Township Committeeman, and his outstanding service to the community. Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, who presided over the event, praised Coppola as a true leader who always put the needs of the people above personal gain.
Reflecting on his time serving alongside Coppola, Mayor Gallagher shared anecdotes about their collaboration and the genuine concern Coppola displayed for the township and its residents. Gallagher fondly remembered the daily phone calls from Coppola, eagerly discussing ideas and initiatives developed with Township Administrator Joseph Giorgio.
Addressing Phyllis Coppola, the late committeeman’s widow, Mayor Gallagher expressed deep gratitude for his enriching conversations with her late husband. The dedication of the George F. Coppola Navy Deck Gun Plaza stands as a lasting testament to George Coppola’s unwavering commitment to serving the community he loved.
Moreover, Mayor Gallagher highlighted Coppola’s involvement with the 200 Club of Morris County, an organization supporting the families of first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. George Coppola’s dedication to public service extended beyond the township, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of many.
The George F. Coppola Navy Deck Gun Plaza serves as a reminder of the legacy of a selfless leader and a symbol of gratitude for the community he tirelessly served.
BOONTON — The University of Hartford is pleased to announce Sarah Beck has been named to the Dean’s List for Spring 2023.
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The University of Hartford is a four-year private university focused on advancing the public good through meaningful connections within our communities. Our unique approach to comprehensive education gives us the critical perspectives that lead to impact change, regionally and beyond. With degree programs spanning the arts, humanities, business, engineering and technology, education, and health professions, we focus on doing the work that matters. Click here to learn more.
MORRIS COUNTY — Legislation sponsored by Senate Republican Leader Anthony Bucco that would help school districts better utilize state military impact aid for the benefit of students was signed into law by Governor Murphy.
The bipartisan bill, S-3089, would allow a school district board of education that received unanticipated State military impact aid in the 2021-2022 school year to establish a military impact aid reserve account in its annual budget. (Click here to view Bill S-3089)
Under the bill, at its discretion, the board may use the funds in the reserve account for general fund expenses.
“I am pleased the Governor signed this measure into law today. By holding these badly needed but unanticipated funds in reserve, districts like Rockaway Township Schools in my district can ensure the money is responsibly appropriated to provide help where it is most needed,” said Bucco (R-25). “The money fills a crucial void in Rockaway’s budget, created when Washington failed to deliver federal impact aid to help pay for educational costs for military children in the schools.
“This bipartisan bill will help maximize funding intended to ease the added burden on local property taxpayers,” Bucco continued.
When legislation was signed in June 2022 providing additional state school aid to districts impacted by the loss of federal impact aid, the Rockaway Township School District was one of two qualifying districts.
A district would be eligible for this aid if it received a Basic Support Payment of federal Impact Aid in the prior fiscal year and the district provides free public education to federally connected children whose parents are on active duty in the uniformed services. This aid is critical to Rockaway Township, which hosts Picatinny Arsenal.
“The federal government had an obligation to underwrite the cost of educating children of our military men and women, but when the money didn’t arrive, local families were stuck paying the bill,” Bucco said. “This law is the next step in mitigating the unfair treatment of local residents.”
MORRIS COUNTY — The I-80 westbound Exit 34B ramp to Route 15 northbound will be closed and detoured tonight for concrete deck repairs in Wharton, Morris County. In addition, the two right lanes will be closed on Route 15 northbound.
From 11:00 p.m. tonight, Friday, July 21, until 5:00 a.m., Saturday, July 22, the I-80 westbound Exit 34B ramp to Route 15 northbound is scheduled to be closed to make concrete deck repairs on the Route 15 Bridge over Green Pond Brook. In addition, the Route 15 northbound right and center lanes will be closed on the bridge at Milepost 2.3. The I-80 westbound Exit 34A ramp to Route 15 southbound will remain open during construction. The following detour will be in place:
I-80 westbound Exit 34B ramp to Route 15 northbound detour:
Motorists on I-80 westbound wishing to take the Exit 34B ramp to Route 15 northbound will be directed to continue on I-80 westbound
Take Exit 34A to Route 15 southbound/Wharton
Turn right onto CR 642/East Dewey Avenue
Turn right onto CR 634/North Main Street
Stay right to take the ramp to Route 15 northbound/Picatinny Arsenal/Jefferson/Sparta
The work is part of a $22.6 million state-funded maintenance project to repair concrete structures at various locations in eight counties throughout North Jersey.
The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website by clicking here for construction updates and real-time travel information.
MORRIS COUNTY — Legislation sponsored by Senator Anthony M. Bucco and Senator Jean Stanfield that provides a one-time income exemption for seniors to avoid losing tax benefits under the Senior Freeze Program was signed into law.
“The signing of this legislation delivers legitimate property tax relief for senior citizens in New Jersey. The Senior Freeze Program has provided substantial tax benefits that have helped many of our older and retired residents stay in their homes,” said Bucco (R-25). “This law will prevent seniors from incurring massive property tax increases and being disposed of their home for exceeding income limitations during one tax year. This law provides a small, but impactful exemption that will protect tax benefits for seniors in the State of New Jersey.”
The homestead property tax benefit, the Senior Freeze Program, provides property tax relief to seniors with incomes under $100,000.
When seniors qualify for the program, they determine their base by considering their previous year’s property tax amount. If property taxes increase beyond their base in any subsequent year, the Senior Freeze Program reimburses the claimant for the additional tax increase.
A senior could lose eligibility by earning too much income, resulting in their base being reset higher if they regain eligibility. This rest costs seniors thousands of dollars in annual tax benefits.
Senator Bucco and Senator Stanfield’s bill, A-4674/S-3278, establishes a one-time exemption to protect seniors from losing their Senior Freeze tax base due to increased income. Going forward, if a senior were to exceed the program’s income limitation, they would be granted the one-time exception, and their base year would remain unchanged.
“When you have seniors living on fixed incomes, a drastic increase in property taxes is devastating for homeowners. I am pleased that this legislation was signed into law to protect seniors from massive tax increases resulting from a temporary increase in income,” said Stanfield (R-08). “The Senior Freeze Program is intended to help seniors manage New Jersey’s soaring property tax rates. This one-time income exception will give seniors a break by protecting crucial tax benefits that help them stay in their homes.”
