Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) is announcing the 27 students from New Jersey's 11th Congressional District appointed to the U.S. Service Academies and Service Academy Preparatory Schools.
PARSIPPANY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) is announcing the 27 students from New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District appointed to the U.S. Service Academies and Service Academy Preparatory Schools. These students will begin their education and service careers this year at the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and their associated Preparatory Schools. Rep. Sherrill hosted an event to recognize the students yesterday in Denville.
“Each and every year, I continue to be so impressed by the caliber of students who apply to my office for nominations to the military service academies. From personal experience, I know how rigorous the course of instruction is at these schools – both academically and physically – and I’m proud to wish them well as they begin their careers as future leaders of our men and women in uniform,” said Rep. Sherrill.
The students attending U.S. Service Academies:
Chirag Chandnani, Mountain Lakes – U.S. Naval Academy
David Farrell, Morris Plains – U.S. Naval Academy
Kelly Keyes, Parsippany – U.S. Military Academy
Elizabeth Habjan, Montclair – U.S. Naval Academy
Delaney Moynihan, Chatham – U.S. Naval Academy
Kyle James, Whippany – U.S. Naval Academy
Jaycen Burke, Whippany – U.S. Military Academy
Matthew Leslie, Rockaway – U.S. Military Academy
Sophia Levitt, Livingston – U.S. Military Academy
William Parrella, Kinnelon – U.S. Military Academy
Remy Ronen, Cedar Grove – U.S. Military Academy
Gina Oswald, Riverdale – U.S. Military Academy
Heainz Manoj, Livingston – U.S. Military Academy
Robert Simone, North Caldwell – U.S. Military Academy
Joey Shi, Livingston – U.S. Military Academy
Thomas Schottland, Sparta – U.S. Military Academy
Bennett Marshall, Chatham – U.S. Military Academy
Sarah Thabit, Morristown – U.S. Military Academy
Clark Wagner, Madison – U.S. Military Academy
Vincent Wong, Millburn – U.S. Military Academy
Audrey Baker, Essex Fells – U.S. Air Force Academy
Christian Greene, Chatham – U.S. Air Force Academy
John Freeman, Montclair – U.S. Air Force Academy
Joseph White, Pompton Plains – U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Zak Li, Wayne – U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Rep. Sherrill graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1994 and served as a Sea King helicopter pilot and Russian policy officer in the U.S. Navy for almost 10 years.
Parrotbeach is one of the few full-time Buffett bands. They have been together for approximately 10 years, they met while playing in local club and original bands. The members of Parrotbeach hail from across our great nation, giving their sound a variation of musical influences.
HANOVER — The Parrot Beach concert originally scheduled for Friday night was postponed due to the cool and rainy weather.
The new date and time for the concert is Sunday, June 25th, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Tickets for the concert are still available and can be purchased for $5 per person. You can acquire the tickets through Community Pass, which is accessible for both Hanover Township residents and Bee Meadow Pool Members.
Enjoy the concert, and I hope the weather cooperates this time!
File Photo. Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
HANOVER — On June 3, Hanover Township Police Officer Brian Morrisroe, accompanied by several officers from Hanover and neighboring towns, successfully apprehended Mr. Sabree Brown, a 19-year-old from Irvington, and Mr. Daeshawn Craddock, a 26-year-old, also from Irvington. Additionally, two juvenile males were also taken into custody. The arrests were made on charges of receiving stolen property.
Officer Morrisroe was on patrol when dispatch advised that a recent stolen car victim was following his stolen car utilizing a Mercedes tracking app. The caller provided his location in the Cedar Knolls area of town.
Several officers converged on the area and were able to locate the vehicle stopped on Boulevard Road. Several police vehicles surrounded the vehicle and exited their patrol vehicles in an attempt to arrest the occupants.
The Mercedes then accelerated, jumped a curb hit a utility pole, and then collided with the vehicle being driven by the individual tracking the stolen vehicle.
The Mercedes experienced heavy damage to the front end and tires of the vehicle, which caused it to become disabled a short distance down the road—the four male occupants then exited the vehicle and ran into the surrounding woods. A brief search resulted in locating Mr. Sabree, Mr. Craddock, and the two juveniles hiding in the woods. While searching for the stolen motor vehicle, a stolen loaded handgun with hollow points bullets was located.
Mr. Craddock was arrested and charged with receiving stolen property, weapons possession (hollow point bullets), unlawful possession of a weapon, employing a juvenile in the commission of a crime, certain persons not to have weapons, possession of a weapon, and contempt.
Mr. Sabree was arrested and charged with receiving stolen property, weapons possession (hollow point bullets), unlawful possession of a weapon, employing a juvenile in the commission of a crime, possession of a weapon, and contempt.
The two juveniles were charged with receiving stolen property, weapons possession (hollow point bullets), unlawful possession of a weapon, resisting arrest, possession of a weapon, and conspiracy. The juvenile driver was also charged with eluding and was issued summonses for failure to stop for an emergency vehicle, driving without a license, failure to observe a stop sign, improper U-Turn, window obstruction, failure to obey signal from officer, failure to give proper signal, abandoned vehicle, leaving the scene of an accident, failure to observe traffic lanes, throwing objects from a vehicle, failure to report an accident, open container, reckless driving and operating a motor vehicle on a sidewalk.
The two adult males were transported to Morris County Correctional Facility. The two juveniles were transported to the Morris County Juvenile Detention Center pending their court dates.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the juveniles are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
MPAC's "Performing Arts Company" comprises a gifted ensemble of teenagers who proudly represents MPAC at Relay for Life. With their exceptional talent, the group delivered a series of captivating performances, including heartfelt renditions of "A Million Dreams From Now On," "Beautiful City," "Mama, A Rainbow," "We are the World," "I Will Survive," and "On My Way." These talented young performers left the audience mesmerized with their passion, skill, and dedication to the arts.
MONTVILLE — The American Cancer Society Relay For Life movement is the world’s largest peer-to-peer fundraising event dedicated to saving lives from cancer. For over 35 years, communities worldwide have come together to honor and remember loved ones and take action for lifesaving change. Funds raised through Relay For Life support breakthrough research, 24/7 support for cancer patients, access to lifesaving screenings, and much more.
The Montville Area Relay for Life fundraiser for the American Cancer Society took place on Sunday, June 10, surpassing their initial goal of $57,000 by raising $60,035.67. The event at the Montville Township High School track was a meaningful gathering to commemorate life. Attendees enjoyed various activities such as singing, face painting, vendor booths, performances, a DJ, hair braiding, and more. These activities aimed to bring cancer survivors and fundraisers together, fostering a sense of hope for the future.
Kiwanis Club of Montville was an active participant.Michael JohnsonEvent chair Ellen Brody Decker with Karen DeChristopher
Event chair Ellen Brody Decker emphasized the collective purpose of the participants: to champion the battle against cancer and work towards a world without this disease. Walking the track that day meant joining millions worldwide who share the same goal of saving lives.
Lenore Drucks emerged as the top fundraiser, having raised an impressive sum of over $15,114. During her speech, she expressed deep emotions as she shared the story of her twin brother, whom she recently lost to cancer.
Valerie Goldberg, Karen DeChristopher, and Al GoldbergFriends of Karen DeChristopher
A poignant moment took place during the event as participants took a silent lap to honor those who have lost their lives to cancer and those who continue to fight the disease. The lap followed a soul-stirring rendition of “Amazing Grace” by Laura Justnes.
For those still interested in contributing, the Relay for Life website will remain open until the end of August. Donations can be made by clicking here.
And there he goes…..Incredible Six-Year-Old Astonishes with Powerful Slam DunkKaren DeChristopher posing at the dunk tankThe poignant “Empty Table” serves as a representation of the individuals who are absent from our gathering. This table is thoughtfully set for one, symbolizing the void left by our loved ones who have been diagnosed with cancer. Their names and faces, silently embodied by the flickering candles, stand as a reminder of their presence in our hearts despite their physical absence. Through this solemn tribute, we acknowledge and honor those who have been affected by cancer, keeping their spirit alive within our shared moments.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, Hanover Township Mayor Thomas Ace Gallagher, Tommy Hudanish, and media personality Bill Spadea is hosting a Free Addiction, Mental Health, and Suicide Prevention Seminar.
Are you a concerned parent worried about your teenager’s well-being? Do you suspect that your middle or high school student may be battling addiction, depression, anxiety, or even contemplating suicide? Perhaps you’re a teacher or coach who wants to be better equipped to recognize early warning signs. If you’re searching for effective strategies to prevent, identify, and address these critical issues, we invite you to join us for a free life-changing seminar.
Led by seasoned professionals in the fields of mental health, addiction, and law enforcement, this event aims to provide practical tools and strategies for addiction prevention, stress management, anxiety, and depression coping mechanisms, and early intervention techniques to avert tragedies.
This invaluable seminar will give you a deeper understanding of addiction, mental health, and suicide prevention. You will also discover available resources for seeking help and support while hearing from experienced professionals specializing in mental health and addiction. Additionally, you will learn to recognize warning signs and how to intervene early to prevent these issues from escalating.
Tracy Cappiccille, LPC, Director of Suicide Prevention Services at the Mental Health Association, will deliver life-saving information tailored for adults and students.
Alongside mental health experts, Chief Joseph Orlando of the Florham Park Police, detectives from the Florham Park police department, and Morris County Sheriff James Gannon will be present to provide insights into current drug abuse issues, addiction prevention, and Narcan training. Moreover, Tommy Hudanish from The Nicholas Hudanish Foundation will share the significance of prevention and educating young individuals on making responsible choices. The Nicholas Hudanish Foundation was established in memory of Nicholas Hudanish, who tragically lost his battle with addiction in November 2016.
This is an invaluable opportunity to gain life-saving knowledge and support. Don’t miss out on the chance to attend in person or join online. Reserve your spot today by registering. Together, we can prevent tragedy and foster hope and healing. Click here to register.
HANOVER — Former Township Committeeman George F. Coppola, who served as the Robert C. Gulick VFW Post #5351 Commander, sadly passed away on April 15, 2023, following a brief illness. George played a vital role when the VFW Post sold its property on Route 10 in June 2022, including a three-inch 50 Caliber Naval deck gun at the western edge of the premises. The VFW membership made the decision to restore and repaint the gun to its original battleship grey enamel finish, a process that took two years to complete.
Recognizing the significance of the Naval deck gun as a veteran’s memorial, the VFW membership identified Veterans’ Memorial Park, located across from the Municipal Campus on North Jefferson Road, as the ideal location for its placement. Committeeman Coppola was crucial in coordinating all aspects of the restoration project. On November 11, 2022, during a ceremony at the Township’s Community Center, VFW Post 5351 officially transferred ownership of the beautifully restored Naval deck gun, with Commander Coppola presiding over the event. In honor of George’s deep devotion and love for God and Country, the Township Committee and Veterans Alliance have chosen to name the gun deck “The George F. Coppola Deck Gun Plaza.”
On behalf of the Township Committee a cordial invitation for you to attend the dedication ceremony on Tuesday evening, July 18, at 6:00 p.m. at Veterans’ Memorial Park. We eagerly anticipate your presence at this significant event as we commemorate the memory and contributions of George F. Coppola.
HANOVER — Hanover Township’s Recreation Department is proud to introduce the “Hometown Heroes Banner Program,” a heartfelt initiative designed to pay tribute to the brave residents and former residents of Hanover Township who have served or are currently serving in the military.
Under this program, nominated and sponsored heroes will be honored with double-sided, 24″ x 48″ vinyl banners prominently displayed for two years. Each banner will feature a uniformed photo of the servicemember, along with their name, branch of service, dates of service, conflict participated in, rank, and any medals or commendations received. The bottom of the banner will acknowledge the sponsor who made the tribute possible.
These inspiring banners will be exhibited on light poles throughout the Municipal Complex during two designated periods: Memorial Day through the Fourth of July and November. Banners will be printed twice a year, with separate submission phases.
To participate, interested individuals can complete the application process, which includes submitting the necessary forms and documents. This includes a submission form, a high-resolution military uniform photo (preferably in dress uniform), and military verification, such as a copy of the DD Form 214 or military ID.
For the first round of banner placements, applications must be submitted by August 11, 2023, on a first-come, first-served basis. Submissions received after this deadline will be considered for the next submission phase, which begins in February 2024. There is a $100 fee for each submission, which covers the production of the banner, photo restoration using Photoshop, installation, and removal.
Click here for an application form. Completed forms can be submitted in person at the Hanover Township Recreation Department, located within the Hanover Township Community Center, or by mail to: 15 North Jefferson Road, Whippany, NJ 07987.
Join Hanover Township in recognizing and honoring the incredible service and sacrifices made by the courageous men and women who call or have called the township their home.
National Master Justin Lee of Mountain Lakes poses alongside ICA's Tournament Director Alessandro De Marchi-Blumstein in a photograph capturing their memorable encounter.
MOUNTAIN LAKES — Justin Lee, an 11th-grade high school student from Mountain Lakes, has achieved remarkable success in chess.
As an International Chess Federation (FIDE) Candidate Master and National Master, he has been selected as the official representative of New Jersey for the prestigious 9th Annual GM Arnold Denker National Tournament of High School State Champions.
Lee’s journey to this esteemed position began on May 21, when he emerged victorious in the North Qualifier held at the International Chess Academy (ICA). Following this triumph, on June 4, he faced off against William Cige, the winner of the South Qualifier, in a thrilling two-game encounter at the Bergen County Academies. Demonstrating his exceptional skills, Lee emerged triumphant in both games, securing his place as the New Jersey representative for the Denker Tournament.
The Denker Tournament is an annual invitational event organized by U.S. Chess, wherein high school students from each state, grades 9-12, compete against one another. Since its inception in 1985, this tournament has been instrumental in determining the Denker National Champion.
Highlighting the significance of this event, Grandmaster Arnold Denker, after whom the tournament is named, expressed, “The invitational is intended to honor and recognize the finest chess player in each state.” The tournament champion will earn qualification for the highly prestigious U.S. Junior Championship and the World Youth Championship, provided they meet the eligibility requirements. In case of any ties, tiebreakers will determine tournament-qualification prizes rather than a playoff.
Scheduled to take place from Saturday, July 29, to Tuesday, August 1, the Denker Tournament will be held at DeVos Place in Grand Rapids, MI. The tournament presents an exciting opportunity for representatives from all 50 states to compete for cash prizes and showcase their skills on the grand stage.
Justin Lee’s exceptional talent has earned him an impressive ranking of 9th among 17-year-old chess players in the United States. His accomplishments and dedication to the game have positioned him as a formidable contender in the upcoming Denker Tournament.
BOONTON — Sabrina Varcadipane has graduated from the University of Findlay. Varcadipane received the following: Bachelor of Science in Animal Science.
Varcadipane was invited to attend the University’s commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 6. UF graduates earned doctorate, master’s, bachelor’s, or associate degrees for 2022 – 2023.
Located in Findlay, Ohio, the University of Findlay is known not only for science, health professions, animal science, and equestrian studies programs but also for cultivating the next generation of business leaders, educators, and global citizens through a dedication to experiential learning, both in and outside of the classroom.
Established in 1882 through a joint partnership between the Churches of God, General Counsel, and the City of Findlay, the University of Findlay has more than 80 majors leading to baccalaureate degrees and offers 11 master’s degrees and five doctoral degrees. More than 3,500 students are enrolled at Findlay, and the University is nationally recognized by U.S. News and World Report and the Princeton Review.
Sfizio: Is a whim or fancy, in other words, it’s a craving you can’t resist
MORRIS COUNTY — Josephina Spinosa and her husband Sergio Capdevielle’s culinary vision to share their love and passion for simple Italian cuisine came to fruition this past April with the opening of their beautiful new restaurant, Lo Sfizio Italian Street Food. The restaurant, which offers a new concept for the local Italian scene, is located at 77 New Road in Parsippany. It allows customers to experience a traditional and authentic touch of Southern Italian street fare, just like Josephina experienced as a child in Naples and later while growing up in her family’s pizzeria. Many of the dishes at Lo Sfizio are based on Josephina’s grandmother’s and mother’s recipes.
Ofelia, Sergio Capdevielle and Pat Minutillo. This culinary establishment takes pride in satisfying customers’ whims with its menu offerings. The name “Lo Sfizio” itself translates to “to satisfy one’s whim” or “to indulge one’s fancy” in Italian, perfectly capturing the essence of their culinary philosophy.
In Italy, street food is ready-to-eat food sold by vendors or hawkers, particularly in urban areas. Street foods are often simple dishes reinvented using a modern approach, often modifying and enhancing them to elegant simplicity. Lo Sfizio translates as “to satisfy one’s whim,” which is exactly what their menu accomplishes. More about the menu later!
The glass and brick-fronted restaurant stands among a row of other eateries and businesses in a small strip mall off New Road at the intersection of Route 46. Their large, bright white business sign is easy to spot as you pass by, and ample free parking is available.
On entering, if you use your imagination, you will be transported to a bucolic and whimsical setting reminiscent of a small trattoria on a busy street in Naples. The large full glass frontage provides soothing ambient lighting, with bright tile floors, sparsely spaced tables covered with glass over green and white checkered tablecloths, comfortable wooden chairs, walls covered in rustic decorative brick, foliage hanging from the ceiling along with straw covered basket lighting. A lighted accent tree helps to complete a serene, welcoming, relaxed, and cozy atmosphere as soft music plays in the background. The focused design, obviously carefully and painstakingly thought out by Josephina and Sergio, certainly accomplishes its intention and creates a mesmerizing ambiance that perfectly matches Lo Sfizio’s food style.
he large full glass frontage provides soothing ambient lighting, with bright tile floors, sparsely spaced tables covered with glass over green and white checkered tablecloths, comfortable wooden chairs, walls covered in rustic decorative brick, foliage hanging from the ceiling along with straw covered basket lighting.
The canopy-covered open kitchen and host station are also artfully designed to accentuate the dining area. Quite frankly, taking in and enjoying the planning and commitment dedicated to the interior decor of Lo Sfizio alone is worth the visit.
Our friendly hostess, Ofelia, welcomed us immediately on arrival and offered us our choice of seating. Menus arrived quickly, and our wine was uncorked. Yes, Lo Sfizio is BYOB. As is customary with our group, we took plenty of time to review the menu and banter over our agreed-upon shared appetizers.
Ofelia was more than happy to answer any questions we had. We finally decided on the Arancini Siciliana (Rice balls filled with meat ragu, peas, and cheese), Panzarotti Napoletani (Potato croquettes with mozzarella cheese), Fried Calamari, Polpette E Patatine Fritte (Mini fried meatballs and fries with a side of sauce), and from what I have been told is the house special, Pizzetta Montanara (Fried personal pizza with sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil). Pizzetta Montanara dates way back in time and is believed to have roots in the mountains surrounding Naples.
Via Dei Tribunali
The menu’s Frittura (Fried Food) section included Battered Stuffed Zucchini Flowers, Wurstel E Patatine Fritte, Olive Ascolana, Suppli Romani, and more. However, as tempted as we were to try as much as possible, our entrees still lie ahead.
We know that food can bring people together, and sharing these simple, finger-style foods seem to have been made for that purpose. In Italian, buono means good, gustoso is tasty, and Saporito means flavorful. All our appetizers easily fit into those categories. Every dish was high-quality, fresh, perfectly made, professionally presented, and quickly devoured.
Pizzetta Montanara (Fried personal pizza with sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil).
The menu consists of Frittura (Fried Food), Italian Sandwiches, Hot Sandwiches, Croissant Sandwiches, Desserts, and Hot and Cold Drinks. Like I said, simple street food, simple menu. Simple, but plenty of delectable selections to satisfy anyone’s taste.
The Hot sandwiches section of the menu offers seven selections, which include Via Veneto (Chopped Flank Steak, Arugula, Mozzarella, Sauteed Onion, Red Roasted Peppers), Via Delle Liberta (Meatballs with sauce, basil, and Mozzarella), Via Rizzoli (Chicken Cutlet Melt with Fresh Mozzarella, Pesto, Sun Dried Tomato Spread), to name a few. The Italian sandwich section of the menu gives you ten choices, and you get to pick your bread: Piadina, Ciabatta, or Focaccia. Choices include Via Monte Napoleone (Melted Cooked Ham and melted Mozzarella Cheese), Via Della Spiga (Crispy Pancetta, Stracciatella Cheese, and Honey), and Via Polo (Grilled Zucchini, Grilled Eggplant, Red Roasted Peppers, Fresh Mozzarella, Red Onions, Arugula, Pesto) to give you a sampling. There was not one sandwich on the list that I would not be happy with. The remainder of the menu offers a choice of two Croissant Sandwiches, the Via Caprese and the Via Dell’Amore, and assorted desserts: including Nutella Croissant, Pistachio Truffle, Cannoli, Foccaccia with Nutella, Mascarpone, and Strawberries.
Fried Calamari
For their entrée, my group went with the Via Torino (Flank Steak, Fried Onions, Sauce, Provolone Cheese), the Via Mazzini (Salami, Prosciutto di Parma, Sopressata, Fresh Mozzarella, Arugula, Pesto), and the Via Dei Tribunali (Sweet Italian Sausage and spicy Broccoli Rabe). All were pleased with their picks, providing many delicious, savory flavors with high-quality fresh ingredients. Elegant, simple food!
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina
As for me, I went with the Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, Lo Sfizio Special Pasta of the Week. Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is an Italian grandmother’s common comfort dish in Naples. The ample portion of fresh homemade gnocchi was well made, light, tender, and airy and was presented in a light tomato sauce. With their mild and subtle potato flavor, these soft, fatty, chewy dumplings were a great choice.
Pistachio Truffle
Dessert consisted of a Pistachio Truffle and our customary Cappuccino—a perfect ending to a nice meal and our newest dining adventure.
To sum up, Lo Sfizio is a great new family-owned and operated addition to Parsippany’s diverse culinary scene. If you are looking for traditional, authentic, high quality flavorful, yet simple southern Italian street food made with fresh ingredients and prepared with love and passion, you will want to visit Josephina and Sergio at their stunning new restaurant.
Ofelia was more than happy to answer any questions we had. We finally decided on the Arancini Siciliana (Rice balls filled with meat ragu, peas, and cheese), Panzarotti Napoletani (Potato croquettes with mozzarella cheese), Fried Calamari, Polpette E Patatine Fritte (Mini fried meatballs and fries with a side of sauce), and from what I have been told is the house special, Pizzetta Montanara (Fried personal pizza with sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil). Pizzetta Montanara dates way back in time and is believed to have roots in the mountains surrounding Naples.
