PARSIPPANY — On Black Friday, November 27, 2020, in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Yellow Pepper, Peruvian Restaurant, decided to make a brave, bold, and risky move and open the doors to their new venture for the first time.

Personally, I am glad that they took that chance because unquestionably this authentic restaurant offers another culinary adventure to our already culturally rich community. I made it a point to be there on that day and thoroughly enjoyed the meal, the ambiance, and the genuinely friendly and accommodating service.  I also had the opportunity at that time to meet with new owners, the friendly and personable, Victor and Damaris Arrese.  (By the way, Mr. Yellow Pepper is a reference to the flavorful aji amarillo pepper, which is a staple ingredient in many Peruvian dishes).  I knew it was about time for a return visit to this enjoyable restaurant, and a restaurant review.

As I entered, I was warmly welcomed and offered the table of my choice.  As I remembered from my previous visit, the ambiance is casual, comfortable, cozy, and yet at the same time somewhat classy.  On entering the restaurant, you immediately encounter an attractive, semi-circled, sparkling clean sports type bar.  I personally liked the relaxing vibe.  Tiled floors, comfortable lighting, several smaller two-person tables along the sides, three large screen televisions, sound off, above the bar. Great place to catch a game once restrictions are relaxed and that opportunity becomes available again.  The attractive, spacious, interior of the restaurant is designed with two levels, the second level, complete with a fireplace, provides an extremely comfortable dining area, which surrounds the lower section.  Slightly muted music in the background, brick, and wood accents throughout, provides diners with a cozy, warm feeling, with simple, nicely displayed artifacts and paintings on the walls. Decorative black tables and chairs complete the overall appearance offering a casual, upscale, classy, stylish look.  The entire restaurant appeared spotless and well organized, and it was obvious that all recommended COVID-19 health precautions were being adhered to.

I introduced myself to Damaris Arrese, who was my hostess this evening, and it was very humbling that she remembered me from my first visit in November.  Even recalling where I sat, and what I ordered.  I was obviously impressed.  Unfortunately, Victor Arrese, was not in on this evening, but an extremely friendly and gracious Mrs. Arrese was more than willing to sit and talk with me about the restaurant and its diverse menu. Interestingly, Peruvian food, now widely recognized as one of the best cuisines in the world, is heavily influenced by Chinese, Japanese, and South East Asian cultures making it a formidable force in world gastronomy, all of which makes Peruvian food so distinctive and interesting.

Prior to opening Mr. Yellow Pepper, Mr. and Mrs. Arrese owned a small Peruvian restaurant in Passaic, Mar y Tierra, their first venture into the restaurant industry. When the opportunity arose to acquire the former Mule Tavern Bar & Grill on North Beverwyck Road, they saw it as a wonderful opportunity to bring their great Peruvian cuisine to the area in a much larger venue, despite the ongoing pandemic chaos.  Residing in the area and having immediate family who live in Parsippany also helped move that decision along.

Mr. Yellow Pepper take pride in the fact that they use only the finest, fresh ingredients in the preparation of their dishes and serve authentic Peruvian traditional fusion recipes, offering some of the best international cuisines from around the world. It is obvious that Mr. and Mrs. Arrese have significant pride in not only their food and service, but in what they bring to the community as well.

During my first visit I also went very traditional in my selections.  Causas de Pollo (Peruvian yellow pepper, lime & spices blended into a creamy potato mash served with a topping of your choice) for an appetizer; Peru’s second most popular dish, Lomo Saltado for my entree (Beef tenderloin strips, red onions, tomatoes, seasoned with soy sauce and flambeed in a fire wok).

Tried the traditional Pisco Sour (Peru’s most popular drink) to top off a great meal.  Every bite was as delicious the last, delectable, and exciting flavors, and the portions were more than ample.

As much as I enjoyed those dishes that I tried that first night I was anxious to experience some, if not all, of the many other appealing selections on the menu.  As soon as I sat down, my very amiable server, Paco, promptly arrived with hot rolls and butter, while I pondered over the diverse and appealing menu.  When finally deciding on a short rib dish, (more about that later) to compliment my meal, I ordered a glass of Peruvian Tabernero Cabernet Sauvignon recommended by Mrs. Arrese, who was also serving as my hostess.  I then focused on the Pulpo Anticuchero as my appetizer (Charcoal grilled octopus served with grinded rustic potatoes and unique Peruvian choclo corn, with a side of “Anticuchera Sauce”).  Fantastic!

The very fresh Pulpo (Octopus) was beautifully plated and presented.  It tasted so fresh and tender one would think they just caught it.  Just looking at the tantalizing visual of this dish, in my mind I had already formulated what it was going to taste like.  I was not disappointed!  The Pulpo was tender, succulent, crispy on the outside and deliciously meaty inside, perfectly chewy, with a nice smokey flavor, and accompanied with side of tasty, flavor packed, golden yellow pepper Anticuchera sauce, that was perfect for dipping both the Pulpo and the potatoes.  As I said, this was an appetizer, but it could have honestly been an entrée by itself.

For my entrée I decided to go with another traditional Peruvian dish, Seco De Carne C/Frijoles (Beef short ribs, cooked in traditional Northern Peruvian style w/rich cilantro and black beer sauce, served w/rice, beans and crilla salad).  Mrs. Arrese informed me after I ordered it, that his was the second most ordered dish on their menu.

I love short ribs, and these were perfectly cooked; moist, succulent, with a savory umami deliciousness.  The tender meat which fell off the bone at the touch of my fork, blended perfectly, and was enhanced with the accompanying sides and sauce, as well as with a separate side dish of nice, flaky white rice.

I was anxious to try the Crema Volteada De Lucuma (Lucuma flavored flan/custard) which I have heard is delicious, and quite different from the other style flans I am used to.  But, being stuffed after devouring the generous sized portions of my other dishes I could not force another bite, so I guess that dessert will have to wait for another day.

As usual, I left Mr. Yellow Pepper with a full stomach and a smile on my face.  Genuinely nice dining experience, delicious food and drink, beautiful restaurant, wonderful people, top-notch, friendly, accommodating, and professional service, and reasonable prices.  What more can you want from a restaurant?  Obviously, this is a restaurant that I would recommend giving a try.

As always, please try to come out and help support all our local, small independent businesses in any way you can.

Ample Parking, Take Out, Dine In, Delivery. Closed Monday.

Mr. Yellow Pepper Peruvian Restaurant is located at 450 North Beverwyck Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054. For more information call (973) 588-7254 or click here.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine – March 2021

MORRIS COUNTY — Forcing school children to take standardized tests this year would be an unnecessary burden heaped on students, parents and teachers, says Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, a member of the Joint Committee on Public Schools.
“I don’t know what of value would be gained by forcing students to take standardized tests when their class schedules have been disrupted for the past year and will continue to be disrupted because of the Covid-19 virus,” said DeCroce (R- Morris).

DeCroce joins state Sen. Declan O’Scanlon (R-Monmouth) who is supporting the New Jersey Education Association’s call for Gov. Phil Murphy to cancel standardized testing this year.

“I agree with Senator O’Scanlon’s position and that of the NJEA,” said DeCroce. “The stress and disruption that normally accompanies standardized tests is an unnecessary burden for all involved at this time. I don’t see a valid reason to put parents, students and teachers through the rigors of standardized test that is likely of little or no value.”

DeCroce said the time and energy put into conducting standardized tests should be directed to developing a statewide plan to reopen schools safely.

“We owe the students the quality education that they are guaranteed under our state constitution. We owe their parents the leadership and concern to deliver quality education in these extraordinary times,” added DeCroce.

The assemblywoman, who has served nine years on the joint education committee, said the state needs to show more leadership on developing a workable plan to get children back in the classrooms.

“Every year we hear people in the administration and elected officials in the legislature tell us how important education is. We need to put meaning to those words and work now to build a framework that will shape the reopening of schools in a safe and effective way,” added DeCroce.

The assemblywoman says she supports teachers being a priority for Covid-19 vaccinations.

“Teachers need to be protected if we expect them to go back to the classrooms,” said DeCroce. “Vaccinations are a first step in an overall school reopening plan that so far has not materialized.”

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Vocational School District, in partnership with County College of Morris (CCM), is offering a new Criminal Justine share-time program for Morris County high school students. The program is for students interested in law, public safety, corrections, and security.

Students will learn through college-level work and hands-on activities.

“We are thrilled to offer a new program for high school students who are interested in pursuing careers in criminal justice and public safety. We know many high school students will be excited to get a jump start in earning college credits in this subject area”, said Shari Castelli, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction at Morris County Vocational School District.

Coursework will include “Intro to Public Safety Careers,” “Criminology,” “Intro to Policing,” “Intro to Emergency Management,” “Juvenile Delinquency,” “Criminal Law and Procedure,” “Forensic Science,” and “Cultural Diversity.”

Castelli also stated the program would include strong private and public-sector program partners who offer work-based learning experiences through industry partnerships.

Upon completion of the two-year program, students will earn 36 credits from CCM with three possible pathways after graduation for career advancement:

1) Direct entry into the workforce with college credit

2) One-year completion of Associate Degree

3) Transfer with advanced standing to a four- year college or university

Students in 10th Grade may apply via online application by clicking here. The application deadline is March 26.

Learn more about the program and application process at an upcoming virtual information session on February 24 at 6:30 p.m. Register today for the Share Time Programs by clicking here.

The district’s share time programs provide half-day specialized career and technical education training as part of a student’s junior and senior year high school program. The programs prepare students for career-related employment and post-secondary placement.

The Morris County Vocational School District (www.mcvts.org) offers programs for Morris County high school students, including Career Academies, Share Time Programs, and Adult Education programs. For additional information, contact Gina DiDomenico, Student Recruitment & Community Relations Specialist at didomenicog@mcvts.org or call (973) 627-4600 ext. 277.MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Vocational School District, in partnership with County College of Morris (CCM), is offering a new Criminal Justine share-time program for Morris County high school students. The program is for students interested in law, public safety, corrections, and security.

Students will learn through college-level work and hands-on activities.

“We are thrilled to offer a new program for high school students who are interested in pursuing careers in criminal justice and public safety. We know many high school students will be excited to get a jump start in earning college credits in this subject area”, said Shari Castelli, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction at Morris County Vocational School District.

Coursework will include “Intro to Public Safety Careers,” “Criminology,” “Intro to Policing,” “Intro to Emergency Management,” “Juvenile Delinquency,” “Criminal Law and Procedure,” “Forensic Science,” and “Cultural Diversity.”

Castelli also stated the program would include strong private and public-sector program partners who offer work-based learning experiences through industry partnerships.

Upon completion of the two-year program, students will earn 36 credits from CCM with three possible pathways after graduation for career advancement:

1) Direct entry into the workforce with college credit

2) One-year completion of Associate Degree

3) Transfer with advanced standing to a four- year college or university

Students in 10th Grade may apply via online application by clicking here. The application deadline is March 26.

Learn more about the program and application process at an upcoming virtual information session on February 24 at 6:30 p.m. Register today for the Share Time Programs by clicking here.

The district’s share time programs provide half-day specialized career and technical education training as part of a student’s junior and senior year high school program. The programs prepare students for career-related employment and post-secondary placement.

The Morris County Vocational School District (www.mcvts.org) offers programs for Morris County high school students, including Career Academies, Share Time Programs, and Adult Education programs. For additional information, contact Gina DiDomenico, Student Recruitment & Community Relations Specialist at didomenicog@mcvts.org or call (973) 627-4600 ext. 277.

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) alumni have another reason to celebrate. Along with being ranked #1 in New Jersey four years in a row based on their earnings, CCM ranked 44 out of over 1,100 community colleges in the U.S. for alumni who earn the best salaries, as reported by Newsweek in“Community Colleges Whose Graduates Earn the Most Money.” By attending CCM, students can receive a free or very affordable higher education and be amongst the highest paid employees in the nation. As noted in the Newsweek article, considering time spent, financial cost and earning potential, community colleges that offer programs on the forefront of career development are “the most viable financial option for many.”

In its 2020-21 “College Salary Report,” PayScale ranked CCM 32nd in the country for graduates who earn the best salaries. Along with the national ratings, CCM has maintained its  #1 position in the state for four consecutive years in PayScale’s “Best Community Colleges in New Jersey by Salary Potential” annual ranking.

“These reports confirm the value and high ROI of a CCM education,” remarked Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, president of CCM. “We’re proud of the success of our alumni and to be recognized for the high-quality, career-focused programs and services CCM provides so students can reach their potential, earn good salaries and make a positive impact in their workplace and communities.”

To learn more about enrolling in one of CCM’s degree, certificate or training programs that translate into better salaries click here or email admiss@ccm.edu or call (973) 328-5100.

MORRIS COUNTY — The cancellation of Assembly committees for the third time this month is facing criticism from Assemblyman Brian Bergen.

“All business is halted because people of the same party can’t get their act together,” said Bergen (R-Morris). “It’s embarrassing.”

Early Thursday morning five Assembly committees were cancelled the day after a Senate Judiciary Committee was also cancelled for a second straight day over a disagreement between Gov. Phil Murphy and legislative leaders on underage penalties for marijuana use.

Committees were also cancelled on February 8 and Wednesday’s meetings were moved to Monday next week all to buy Democrats more time to come to an agreement.

“It should not be lost on anybody that the marijuana legalization fiasco represents the clear fact that Democrats are failing to help people because politics is their priority,” continued Bergen. “This isn’t a policy disagreement. This is a lack of leadership.”

MORRIS COUNTY — Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey continues to expand its free virtual offerings during the COVID-19 pandemic, as two foundations support the nonprofit’s outreach efforts.

VLANJ’s winter 2021 session offers 13 weekly Beyond Sight wellness classes that run through April 9, plus several shorter skills training and enrichment opportunities for adults with vision loss.

“The pandemic only heightened feelings of isolation for people with vision loss, but our virtual classes give them access to information, wellness opportunities, and each other,” VLANJ Program Director Elsa Zavoda said.

The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation awarded VLANJ $15,000 to run the virtual programs on Zoom, the popular video conferencing service. The Grotta Fund for Senior Care, which funded VLANJ’s fall 2020 virtual programming, awarded VLANJ another nearly $10,000 to help keep it going in 2021.

“We’re so grateful to the foundations for helping us remove barriers so people with vision loss can access programs and interact with peers and our professional staff,” Zavoda said. The grants allow VLANJ to run online classes, support groups, and educational and enrichment programs at no charge to adults with vision loss.

Grotta Fund Executive Director Renie Cariol applauded VLANJ in the fall for serving “an at-risk population with opportunities for physical and mental wellness and social connectedness, and to learn technology.”

Two hundred people registered for at least one virtual offering, and most are taking two or more, Zavoda said. “We’re able to serve a lot more people than we ever had,” she said, noting former participants living in distant counties and out of state, homebound seniors, and people lacking transportation are able to participate. Enrollment in VLANJ programs has tripled since they went virtual.

“All these Zoom classes have helped keep me sane. They keep my body and my brain active,” said Delores ‘Dee’ Eliassen, who’d had to give up driving due to her deteriorating vision last February. The 76-year-old widow takes eight VLANJ virtual classes a week.

Healing Rhythms is a new evening class that incorporates elements of neuropsychology, music therapy, neurology, and other mental wellness interventions. Favorites like Now & Zen yoga, Fitness Fun with Joannie, and Inquiring Minds are all back. Click vlanj.org/program-schedule to see the winter schedule and a description of each class.

One new monthly program is STRIVE (Strength Through Relationships, Insights, Values, Education), designed to provide information and guidance to people with vision loss, as well as sighted people who are helping someone who has lost sight. STRIVE is held the second Wednesday of each month. The popular Tech Talks webinar series runs the fourth Wednesday of each month, addressing issues such as smart technology, shopping apps, and an introduction to screen reader technology.

Living Independently For Tomorrow (LIFT), which began Feb. 3, is a virtual version of VLANJ’s effective in-person Essential Low Vision course. LIFT provides basic training in daily life activities over four weeks. The 90-minute sessions cover kitchen safety and organization; orientation and mobility; optical aids, lighting, and contrast; and simple solutions for managing money, medications, and writing. LIFT will be offered every other month throughout the year, Zavoda said.

Also back is the Technology Learning Lab, which focuses on computer skills that can help participants gain employment. The five students currently enrolled receive four hours a week of one-on-one training in Microsoft Windows 10 operating system, using JAWS, a screen reader, or Fusion, a combination screen reader and text magnifier.

While VLANJ plans to resume in-person programs once the coronavirus is no longer a risk, virtual classes will continue as a means to serve people who cannot get to VLANJ, Zavoda said. Transportation has long been a challenge for people with vision loss, she noted. For more information about enrolling or supporting VLANJ, contact VLANJ Senior Program Manager Linda Groszew at lgroszew@vlanj.org or (973) 627-0055, ext.1312.

The National Eye Institute projects the number of people with visual impairment or blindness in the U.S. will double to more than 8 million by 2050. Started in 1943, VLANJ is one of the state’s longest-serving nonprofits for adults who are blind or visually impaired. The organization builds participants’ independence and confidence and creates a space for friendships to flourish. VLANJ also educates the wider community about the challenges of vision loss and how sighted people can serve as advocates. For more information click here.