File Photo. Vehicle may not be same, just used for reference
PARSIPPANY – Parsippany Police reports that during the early morning hours of November 26th, three different residences were burglarized. The locations were:
• Cherry Lane (2022 BMW X7 stolen)
• Sedgefield Drive (2022 BMW X7 stolen)
• Lake Shore Drive (Lake Hiawatha section)
During the investigation, one male was placed under arrest on Sedgefield Drive. (click here to read a related article)
The investigation into these incidents is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to email [email protected] or call (973) 263-4300.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite these accusations, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
MORRIS COUNTY – The NJ Recovery Institute marked its official launch with a grand opening ceremony that was graced by several distinguished guests. The ribbon-cutting event saw the presence of Senator Anthony Bucco, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Wharton Police Chief David Young, and Rockaway Borough Police Chief Conrad Pepperman, along with other esteemed attendees.
Senator Anthony Bucco, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Wharton Police Chief David Young
The NJ Recovery Institute provides comprehensive support for individuals seeking to overcome drug addiction or alcohol abuse. Tailored services meet the unique needs of each person, alongside extensive guidance and aftercare to promote sustained recovery.
Grounded in the values of respect, compassion, and integrity, the institute is dedicated to assisting individuals and their families in Succasunna, to conquer the challenges posed by alcohol and drug dependency. Recognizing the difficulties in fostering a supportive environment, the institute affirms its commitment to facilitating a healthier, more hopeful future for everyone it serves.
Offering a variety of recovery programs designed to address the particular circumstances of each client, the NJ Recovery Institute positions itself as a staunch ally in the fight against addiction, providing a critical first step on the path to successful recovery.
NJ Recovery Institute is located at 106 Route 10 West, Succasunna. They can be reached by calling (973) 891-0897. You can visit their website by clicking here.
The Craig School’s garden was inspired by Steven Ritz’s Green Bronx Machine program in New
York.
This article was submitted and written by Elizabeth Gillen, Girl Scout Gold. All photos by Elizabeth Gillen and student photo releases comply with Craig School policy confirmed by Niles Furlong, Craig School.
MOUNTAIN LAKES — Imagine attending school where you can pick fresh vegetables with your classmates and teachers, or observe the graceful flight of Monarch butterflies just outside your classroom windows. Since 2019, this has been a reality for students at The Craig School in Mountain Lakes. They have been actively involved in planting and harvesting a variety of vegetables, generously sharing their produce with groundhogs, birds, and other wildlife that frequent their school grounds. One dedicated 7th grader, G.C., has been nurturing his gardening skills since the 4th grade, thanks to guidance from his grandpa.
The inspiration for The Craig School’s garden came from Steven Ritz’s Green Bronx Machine program in New York. Niles Furlong, the Director of Student Affairs and Athletics at The Craig School, took the lead in transforming a green space at the school’s entrance into a thriving vegetable garden. What initially began as an Eagle Scout project has now become an integral part of the school’s science and social studies curriculum.
D.S., another 7th grader, has been an active member of the Garden Club for four years, alongside her friends. The garden, adorned with plants and flowers that attract pollinators like Monarch butterflies through the presence of milkweed, has become a comforting outdoor sanctuary for students like K.S. and K.M., both 7th graders who cherish their time spent there. The garden’s National Wildlife Federation certification attests to its provision of a water source, shelter, and food for native wildlife, a place for wildlife to raise their young, and the use of natural gardening methods. The NWF’s certification is attainable for any outdoor space that incorporates these essential elements, whether it be a patio, balcony, or schoolyard.
Recently, The Craig School’s Certified Schoolyard Habitat garnered the attention of Elizabeth Gillen, a Mountain Lakes resident and high school junior at the Morris County School of Technology Multimedia Academy. Gillen is working towards her Girl Scout Gold Award, focusing on raising awareness for local wildlife, abundant in Mountain Lakes and nearby Tourne Park. She registered Mountain Lakes with the National Wildlife Federation and is collaborating with the Borough’s Woodlands Sub-Committee and Gardening Club to educate the community about wildlife protection and creating wildlife-friendly spaces on public and private property. Gillen’s ambitious goal is to certify the entire Borough of Mountain Lakes through a combination of educational outreach and wildlife habitat certifications for backyards, schools, businesses, and pocket parks.
At The Craig School, the student-run Garden Club takes care of planting, weeding, and harvesting, and the harvested vegetables are sent home with students. For 5th grader M.B., picking vegetables, especially peppers, is a favorite pastime. The school’s Science Department oversees the growth of milkweed, essential for Monarch butterflies, as their caterpillars rely on native milkweed before undergoing their transformation. Additionally, the Social Studies department plays a pivotal role in managing the vegetable garden.
In 2023, the Birchwood Lake Rain Garden and Thorleif Fiflet Bird Sanctuary in Mountain Lakes achieved NWF Certified Wildlife Habitat status, adding to the community’s commitment to wildlife conservation. The Craig School is one of only nine certified schools in Morris County. Gillen hopes that other schools will draw inspiration from The Craig School’s success and empower their students to make a difference for wildlife in their school vicinity and backyards.
Mr. Furlong shared his observation, stating, “It never ceases to amaze me the amount of wildlife our students experience firsthand right outside our classrooms here in Mountain Lakes. We are firm believers in the mission of the National Wildlife Federation and are proud to be part of this important initiative.”
FLORHAM PARK — Colin Skeele, 37, Florham Park, received an 18-month sentence to New Jersey State Prison on November 15, 2023, for sexually abusing a Boy Scout camper. The incident occurred at the NoBeBoSco camp in Hardwick Township, run by the Boy Scouts of America.
The Prosecutor’s Office detailed that Skeele initiated a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old Counselor-in-Training while he was 26 and employed at the camp.
In a distressing pattern of behavior, Skeele, working in the camp’s Medical Tent, repeatedly engaged in sexual activities with the camper.
His guilty plea to fourth-degree Criminal Sexual Contact under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3 led to his current sentence.
Further compounding his criminal history, Skeele has a previous conviction for similar offenses in Sussex County, dating back to 2020. He is also concurrently serving a Federal prison sentence for distributing child sexual abuse material.
HANOVER — During World War I in 1914, music became a source of comfort and festive spirit for soldiers amidst the conflict. Over a century later, the Hanover Wind Symphony (HWS) and the Morris Music Men are set to pay homage to the remarkable Christmas Truce of 1914. This tribute will be part of their “Holidays in Hanover” concert at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 10, at Memorial Junior School in Whippany.
The concert, free and sponsored by the Hanover Township Cultural Arts Committee, features a narrative of the Christmas Truce compiled by Elaine Schlatter of Hackettstown and recited by Jim Sodt of Sparta.
Schlatter, an HWS board member and founder, was inspired by the truce’s demonstration of the holiday spirit by soldiers on both sides, despite the lack of official sanction. The truce, which spread along the western front, was a spontaneous display of peace, music, and camaraderie.
The concert will see both the HWS and the Morris Music Men, a cappella group, performing pieces reminiscent of those sung during the 1914 truce. The event will also include readings of soldiers’ letters and reports, narrating the extraordinary circumstances of the truce.
Matthew Paterno of Parsippany, the music director and conductor of HWS, invites the community to experience the joy of holiday music and learn about the historic truce. The concert will feature performances by the Hanover Wind Symphony, including works like “The Polar Express” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” with a solo by Alvin Scott on alto saxophone, culminating in a festive sing-along.
The Hanover Wind Symphony, known for its adult wind band performances, and the Morris Music Men, renowned for their barbershop harmony, both represent the rich musical heritage and community spirit of New Jersey. For more information about these groups and the concert, visit their respective websites: www.hanoverwinds.org and www.morrismusicmen.org.
Michael Gomez; Chief Robert McNally; Detective Christopher Cannon; Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll; Detective Dakota Keyworth
MORRIS COUNTY — In honor of Veterans Day, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office began the annual tradition of recognizing U.S. Military Veterans who serve in the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. The program was the idea of the former Chief of Staff Daniel Pfeiffer, himself an Army Veteran.
On November 14, 2023, Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and his command staff again recognized Veterans Day with members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office who served in the United States Armed Forces before pursuing a career with the Prosecutor’s Office. Twenty-two (22) current and former members have been recognized as U.S. Veterans. This year, Christopher Cannon, a U.S. Air Force and Army Veteran, and recently appointed Detective at the office, was presented with a certificate of recognition for his service.
The following list identifies each member, and the respective military branch in which they served:
Prosecutor Carroll said, “The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office continues to recognize and support our military veterans who have chosen service before self, and after serving our Country, many have moved on to pursue law enforcement careers to continue this selfless approach to life.”
Delhi Delight, located at 285 Parsippany Road, opened for business on January 1, 2023.
MORRIS COUNTY — As my foodie friends and I ventured out for our next dining adventure we decided to visit a relatively new Parsippany eatery, specializing in Northern Indian cuisine, the Delhi Delight Restaurant. Delhi Delight, located at 285 Parsippany Road, opened for business on January 1, 2023. I had heard good things about this venue, so we were looking forward to our visit. The restaurant is in a stand-alone brick building, formerly the site of the Taj Mahal Restaurant, which is easy to spot by its highly visible maroon and orange pylon signage and outside color scheme, inviting you into the entrance of their parking area.
As you enter you may find Delhi Delight to be on the smaller side, but don’t fear, they can comfortably accommodate approximately 16 diners, so I would suggest making a reservation if you are going with a group. You will find yourself immediately greeted and sincerely welcomed on your arrival, in our case by our very amiable server, Bhandhu. Seated comfortably along the side of the dining room, our server Bhandhu, attentively ensured our table was properly prepared as she politely addressed any questions concerning the menu. Wines were uncorked and menus were perused in anticipation. Yes, Delhi Delight is BYOB.
Thoughtfully spaced wooden tables fill the room, which enjoys wonderful ambient lighting from two large storefront windows that fully cover two sides of the dining area.
The dining area is warm, cozy, immaculately clean, and comfortable. Thoughtfully spaced wooden tables fill the room, which enjoys wonderful ambient lighting from two large storefront windows that fully cover two sides of the dining area. The walls are a soft faux beige brick over real brick design, with tile floors, and some pendant lighting overhead, all creating a warm and soothing vibe. The Décor is simple but neat and adequate to complement the ambiance of the room. An ordering/pick up (for Take-Out Orders) station is located at the front of the restaurant giving you a view of the kitchen, which appears exceptionally clean and orderly, and where you can observe Chef Charanjeet Singh applying his craft.
I should note that Delhi Delight also has a separate party/meeting room that can accommodate 40 people, and which encompasses the majority of the building. The attractively decorated party room, like the dining area, offers comfortable seating, a buffet station, a salad station, and soft lighting; and the room appears perfect for a family gathering, private party, or meeting. Delhi Delight offers catering for up to 40 people at this location, as well as for up to 500 people off-site.
Pat Minutillo had a conversation with Charanjeet Singh, who shared that he moved to the U.S. from Delhi, India in 2017 and has since settled in Parsippany.
The Restaurant is independently owned, and family-operated by partners, Charanjeet Singh and Suresh Shetty. I did have the opportunity to sit down and talk with a very friendly Mr. Charanjeet Singh, who told me that he arrived in the U.S. from Delhi, India in 2017 and settled in Parsippany, along with his family. While in Delhi he owned and operated his own restaurant where he served multi-fusion cuisine, incorporating Northern & Southern Indian, Indochinese, and Italian specialties. It was his dream however to come to the U.S. and open his own place offering authentic northern Indian food to the community. He stated, I have a great passion and love for the food I serve, and there are no fusion foods in his current recipes. Every dish I serve is true, authentic, fresh Northern Indian cuisine, according to Mr. Singh. On a side note, he confided that his inspiration to bring those authentic recipes and cooking styles from Delhi to America was when his two daughters told him that they did not like most American food and missed the food from their native Delhi.
Mr. Singh acquired his passion for cooking from his older brother, a foodie who loved to cook, and who was a father figure and major influence on the young Charanjeet, as his father passed away when he was very young. They would often cook together at home where he honed and enhanced his early cooking skills. As faith would have it, in 2019 he grew friendly with his neighbor, Suresh Shetty, a Chef himself with 35 years in the restaurant industry. They quickly discovered they shared many of the same interests and passions, eventually leading to a partnership co-owning Delhi Delight. Their goal, to introduce authentic flavors from the streets of New Delhi to New Jersey.
Shared appetizers included a couple of orders of Samosa; a famous traditionally made Indian street food (a fried pastry with a savory filling).
The menu covers most of the prominent Northern Indian fare, complete with vegetarian options. Appetizers, tandoor delectables, Rice & Biryani’s, Specialty Breads, desserts, and condiments were also available. Entrees included curries, tikkas, chicken, egg, and fish options on the non-veg side and dishes such as Paner Makhni, Yellow Dal Tadka, and Channa Masala to name just a few of the 15 or so veg dishes. Something for every palate!
Vegetable Pakora; basically, Indian mixed vegetable fritters, spiced and fried until they are nice and crunchy, golden, and crispy
Our choices of shared appetizers included a couple of orders of Samosa; a famous traditionally made Indian street food (a fried pastry with a savory filling). Just inhale the aroma, pause, and sink your teeth into that outer shell. Absolutely delicious! Vegetable Pakora; basically, Indian mixed vegetable fritters, spiced and fried until they are nice and crunchy, golden, and crispy. Vegetables never tasted better! And Murgh Malai Tikka; Simply, Murgh means Chicken, Malai means cream, and Tikka refers to little chunks of chicken, meat, or vegetables marinated in a spicy mix. In this case, Tikkas are bite-sized pieces of chicken cooked in a creamy marinade with yogurt, cheese, ginger, garlic, and chili. Excellent! Tasty appetizers all around. All the appetizers were accompanied by a variety of chutney dipping sauces to enhance the already wonderful flavors.
We were able to sit back, relax, sip some wine, and discuss our individual entrees while totally wiping out those appetizers. For my entrée I went with Chicken Vindaloo; a hot, spicy Indian curry dish made with boneless chicken and known for its bold, aromatic, full-bodied flavor and heat. Lots of harmonious seasonings and chili peppers are combined together in this dish, creating a succulent curry flavoring. I prefer spicy food and I fully enjoyed this dish, but be careful, if you don’t like, or can’t eat spicy food there are plenty of other non-spicy options available. Note that all the entrees come with servings of white rice and dipping sauces should you need them, and you’re going to want to order some Naan (Baked in a Tandoor) and/or Parathas (fried, flaky whole wheat flatbread). We ordered a couple of servings of both breads for dipping and to complement our food Indian style. Great dish! I would order it again.
Butter Chicken is the most popular dish at most Indian restaurants. Mild in spiciness with a sweeter taste. It is a great choice for someone new to Indian cuisine. A mouth-watering, delicate boneless chicken cooked in spiced pureed tomatoes and milk cream.
Bob A. chose Lamb Curry; a well-balanced, richly spiced dish of baby lamb, with a mild curry sauce and deep savory flavors. He gave it a thumbs up. Mike F. went with the Chicken Tikka Masala; a tomato and cream-based sauce with chargrilled boneless chicken. The dish was rich and creamy, with a slight sweetness and mild tangy heat (you can always order it hotter if you like). The remainder of the group decided on the Butter Chicken, the most popular dish at most Indian restaurants. Mild in spiciness with a sweeter taste. It is a great choice for someone new to Indian cuisine. A mouth-watering, delicate boneless chicken cooked in spiced pureed tomatoes and milk cream. The overall consensus was that the meal was outstanding. From appetizers to dessert, we all had a Mango Lassi, a popular smooth and creamy textured yogurt-based drink with a sweet and tangy flavor. The meal was a home run.
Garlic Naan – Parantha
“Spicy, rich, flavorful, and diverse are terms that are frequently used to describe Indian food”, and Delhi Delight seems to hit all the buttons. The utilization of unique combinations of flavor, along with a wide range of harmonious spices that are used in Indian cooking, makes Indian cuisine some of the most flavorful food in the world. There seems to be something for everybody’s taste, and for every occasion with Indian food, be it from the mild to moderate spices of the north, the much spicier food of the south, or any of the regional areas in between.
If you haven’t tried Indian cuisine as of yet, take the opportunity to get out and enjoy a great dining experience. We are very lucky in the Parsippany area to have so many diverse and wonderful dining opportunities right at our fingertips. And don’t be afraid to try something new. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
Dine in – Take Out- Delivery; Ample Off-Road Parking – BYOB – Catering; 3.5% Credit Card Charge; Website: www.delhidelight.us
HANOVER — The Garden State Threshold Choir (GSTC) is currently open to new membership inquiries.
Distinct from traditional choral groups, GSTC doesn’t perform for entertainment or in concert settings. Instead, their focus is on singing in small groups to individuals, typically those who are in the final stages of life, transitioning between living and dying.
Their repertoire is centered around themes of rest, comfort, and release, as well as expressions of love and peace.
Judy Hahn, director of the Garden State Threshold Choir (GSTC) and resident of Whippany, highlights the commitment needed for their unique work. “It’s incredibly rewarding, though it requires a special kind of dedication,” she says.
GSTC’s approach to singing is distinctive. Their Threshold songs, penned by choir members, are softly sung a capella. They start in unison, gradually introducing harmonies, almost like a mantra. Delia Cashin, a member of GSTC, describes the transformative power of harmony: “It shifts the room’s atmosphere, evoking deep emotions. The harmonies often reveal thoughts and feelings that might have been unexpressed.”
The choir, comprising small groups of three or four, sings only by invitation, often through a hospice agency, following extensive training and practice.
“Singing to someone nearing life’s end is a profound honor for us,” Hahn explains. “We witness relaxation in breathing, and for families present, our songs often articulate their emotions, leading to shared tears.”
The choir’s presence is also calming for hospice staff. “Nurses and aides appreciate when we visit,” Cashin notes.
Prospective GSTC members don’t undergo formal auditions, but certain skills are necessary: carrying a tune, maintaining harmony, blending with others, and most crucially, conveying kindness through voice.
Rehearsals take place on Tuesday evenings, alternating between in-person sessions in Whippany and virtual meetings on Zoom, with bedside visits typically occurring on weekday afternoons.
As part of the wider Threshold Choir network, a 501(c)3 nonprofit with around 200 chapters nationally and internationally, GSTC embraces all spiritual paths without religious affiliation. It was the first New Jersey chapter, established five years ago, followed by another in Cherry Hill. GSTC volunteers never charge for their services.
In addition to in-person visits, GSTC offers virtual “bedside” visits and bi-monthly song circles over Zoom. For more information about the Garden State Threshold Choir, click here or contact Judy Hahn at (973) 222-7360
MORRIS COUNTY — United Way of Northern New Jersey is calling on the community to support the growing number of participants in its annual holiday gift program, which aids thousands in need across the region.
This year marks the 34th iteration of the United Way Gifts of the Season program, where local residents and businesses are invited to buy holiday gifts. The program annually distributes over 6,000 gifts to children, teens, adults with special needs, and seniors facing financial challenges in northern New Jersey.
The focus of this gift drive is to assist those who are asset-limited, income-constrained, Employed (ALICE), as well as families living in poverty who struggle to afford basic necessities.
To contribute, individuals, community groups, and businesses can either fulfill specific gift requests or provide general gifts until December 8. United Way also welcomes gift cards and financial contributions to ensure all remaining gift needs are met, spreading holiday joy to all.
Donations to the program can be made by clicking here.
For additional details about the United Way Gifts of the Season, interested parties can email [email protected] or call (973) 993-1160, extension 502.
As the year draws to a close, the members of the 200 Club of Morris County extend our heartfelt gratitude to our current President, Robert D'Emidio, for his exceptional leadership and commitment to elevating The 200 Club of Morris County. A huge thank you to Robert for his tireless efforts and unwavering dedication.
MORRIS COUNTY — On Monday, November 13, the Birchwood Manor hosted the annual member meeting of The 200 Club of Morris County.
Media Personality, Bill Spadea
Dr. Robert D’Emidio, the Club President, initiated the evening’s proceedings, warmly welcoming the numerous members who gathered for this notable event. Following his introduction, each committee took turns presenting their reports, providing insights into their recent activities and achievements.
The event then welcomed Media Personality, Bill Spadea, to the stage. Spadea engaged the audience with his thoughts on state laws impacting police work and his perspective on potential future reforms.
At the Annual Membership Meeting of The 200 Club of Morris County, a notable gathering took place that included Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, Dr. Robert D’Emidio, Jodi Spadea, media personality Bill Spadea, and Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher. This event brought together these distinguished figures, highlighting a significant occasion for the club and its community engagement.
A memorable moment of the evening was the presentation of a plaque to Dr. D’Emidio, honoring his dedication and tireless efforts on behalf of the club. This gesture underscored the appreciation and respect he has earned for his commitment to the organization.
At the Annual Meeting of The 200 Club of Morris County, members of the Board, officers, and local dignitaries convened in a significant gathering. This event underscored the club’s strong community ties and the involvement of key local figures in its activities and initiatives.
Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling was in the company of media personality Bill Spadea at the event
Each year The 200 Club awards college, post-high school education, or vocational school scholarships to children of active or retired Morris County firefighters, police, EMTs,
members of local OEMs, as well as high school seniors who volunteer with a Morris County fire department or first aid squad. After carefully and anonymously reviewing applications, the Scholarship Committee chose these 16 deserving high school seniors to receive scholarships.
Nicolas Jannarone, Bill Spadea, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio
Fifteen of the students are embarking on their freshman year in the fall with a $5,000 scholarship from The Club. This year the following students received a scholarship: Brielle R. Bloch, Shannon Carey, Thomas DeNicola, Charlotte C. Eriksen, Misha A.Gill, Jacob M. Gringeri, Jack Lemongello, Nicholas C. Licata, Ricardo Nulman, Tiya Patel, Abigail Simon, Anna Thach, Daytona Turton, Parker Turton, Emily Zhao and John Zimmerman. The 2024 application opens on December 1.
Since 1971, The 200 Club of Morris County has welcomed ideas and participation from its
members to ensure that the programs are available for generations to come. They value diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, so if you have some time to spare throughout the year, they would love to speak with you about volunteer opportunities on a committee. You can familiarize yourself with each committee’s responsibilities by clicking here. You can also email [email protected] or call 200 Club Administrator Lori Richmond at (973) 630-7933.
We were able to sit back, relax, sip some wine, and discuss our individual entrees while totally wiping out those appetizers. For my entrée I went with Chicken Vindaloo; a hot, spicy Indian curry dish made with boneless chicken and known for its bold, aromatic, full-bodied flavor and heat. Lots of harmonious seasonings and chili peppers are combined together in this dish, creating a succulent curry flavoring. I prefer spicy food and I fully enjoyed this dish, but be careful, if you don’t like, or can’t eat spicy food there are plenty of other non-spicy options available. Note that all the entrees come with servings of white rice and dipping sauces should you need them, and you’re going to want to order some Naan (Baked in a Tandoor) and/or Parathas (fried, flaky whole wheat flatbread). We ordered a couple of servings of both breads for dipping and to complement our food Indian style. Great dish! I would order it again.
