MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio announced that his legislative office will again collect toy donations this holiday season to be shared with families in need. Donations of new, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at the Senator’s legislative office in Montville.
Senator Joe Pennacchio announced that his legislative office will again collect toy donations this holiday season to be shared with families in need.
The Senator is looking to help individual families in need of toys. Please contact his office to discuss any specific needs.
A family looking for toys must contact Senator Pennacchio’s office to make an appointment for Thursday, December 15.
Senator Pennacchio will also distribute collected toys through the Battered Women’s Shelter, Passaic and Montville UNICO, the Marine’s Toys for Tots, Parsippany Kiwanis, The Ronald McDonald House, Saint Pius Church, and Saint Peters Church.
“The holiday season is a time for us to come together to support those in need and teach our own children the value of making a difference in the lives of the less fortunate,” Senator Pennacchio (R-Essex, Morris, Passaic) said. “It is truly a privilege to open our doors as a collection site for needy children. I urge my constituents to take the time to make a donation and embrace the spirit of generosity that this season inspires.”
Senator Pennacchio also wishes to express his heartfelt thanks to all the schools and individuals participating in the toy drive with their generous donations. Over the years, the Senator has collected thousands of toys.
Senator Pennacchio’s legislative office will collect toys through December 14, 2022.
Donations may be delivered to the district office between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. from Monday through Friday.
The district office is located in Unit A1 at 170 Changebridge Road, Montville.
MORRIS COUNTY — Garden and landscape enthusiasts will be inspired by a showcase of the newest advances and technology in horticulture and design at a public event produced by students enrolled at the County College of Morris (CCM).
Students in CCM’s Special Topics Landscape and Horticultural Technology course designed the “Horticulture Innovations Showcase,” to be held Thursday, December 8, as part of a semester project where they were tasked with developing an educational event featuring leaders in the field. The showcase, which is free and open to the public, will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Landscape and Horticultural Technology Building near Parking Lot 1 on CCM’s campus located at 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph.
Speakers highlighting modernizations in the industry include Michael Deo from NatureScape Lighting, Ecological Landscape Specialist Richard McCoy, and Robert Molinet on nature-Inspired outdoor living. Other topics will include sustainable landscape design, medical cannabis, and the inspiring use of natural stone.
“This event highlights new, emerging, and creative sectors of the Green Industry,” says Brian Oleksak, chair of the Department of Landscape and Horticultural Technology (LHT) at CCM. “The students in the Special Topics course have curated some of the most innovative talents in the New Jersey horticultural industry to showcase the niches they have made for themselves as leaders in the industry.”
CCM’s LHT department offers three Associate in Applied Science degrees, with specializations in either Turf and Turfgrass Management, Landscape Management and Design, or Agribusiness.
“LHT students are creative, love the outdoors, and are committed to preserving the environment,” notes Oleksak. “The program is founded on plant science, soils, plant identification, and design, providing students with a thorough education in ornamental horticulture.”
Organizers of the Horticulture Innovations Showcase include CCM students Kody Shelton of Parsippany, Mallory Cibort of Mendham, Stefan Michura of Chester, Ben Lee of Pine Brook, Egla Betancourt-Granados of Clinton, and Nancy Peach of Milford.
For more information contact [email protected] or call (973) 328-5363. To learn more about the LHT programs at CCM or click here.
On Saturday, November 12, LaZeez by Dhaba held a grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony
PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, November 12, LaZeez by Dhaba held a grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio and the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee,
LaZeez by Dhaba is the new Indian fusion street food experience located at 745 Route 46 East.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill presents a welcome plaque to LaZeez by DhabaParsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill presents a welcome plaque to LaZeez by DhabaThe staff at LaZeez by Dhaba were serving appetizers to all of the attendees at the Grand Opening
Creating a perfect melding of Indian dishes with popular street food from throughout the world with build-your-own rice bowls, burritos, tacos, quesadillas, pizzas, and more. The restaurant was conceptualized by the Fine Indian Dining Group, whose portfolio of restaurants includes Sahib, Dhaba, Chote Nawab, Malai Marke, Dhaba Express, Wok In The Clouds, Kebabs & Kurries by Dhaba and Jashan by Dhaba. LaZeez by Dhaba is the first quick-service restaurant under the Fine Indian Dining Group’s umbrella. Spotlighting a unique combination of flavors, LaZeez offers its diners a true taste of Northern Indian cuisine with a Mexican flare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The interior at LaZeez by Dhaba
For breakfast, guests can choose from a variety of options to build their own plate. Breads: Desiwala Angrezi Muffins, Biscuit Sandwich, and Pav Sandwich; Style: Mix Veggie Patty, Chicken Keema Patty, Paneer Bhurji, and Poached Egg; Cheeses: Cheddar, Mozarella, and Amul; Customizable: Mini Dosas, Chilla-Dilllas, Uttapams, Bagels, and Desi Style French Toast. Waffles and Pancakes Toppings: Masala, Sliced Strawberry or Banana, Poached Egg, Lamb Keema.
For the lunch and dinner menus, guests are offered a variety of options like building their own IndiMex plate, sandwiches or rolls, Desi pasta, LaZeez Desiwala pizza as well as a selection of burgers. The restaurant also provides different flavored dumplings also known as momos, available in both Steamed and Fried Also the restaurant has a wide variety of Indian Street Food favorites like Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, Chaat Section, Chole Bhature, Chole Puri, Kachori with Aloo Bhaji to name a few.
Desi Burgers & Subs: LaZeez offers Desi Burgers and Subs with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, including options like a Samosa Sandwich, a Butter Chicken Burger, and a Pizza Paneer Burger.
Traditional LaZeez Curry Bowls: A selection of curry bowls is also offered with options such as Punjabi Kadhi, Chole Masala, and Chicken Tikka Masala.
Beverages: They offer an array of traditional Indian beverages like Limca, Thums Up, Rose Lassi, Sweet & Salty Lassi, and Mango Lassi. An array of coffee choices and freshly made Orange, Grapefruit, Lemon Lime, and Beetroot juices are available.
Freshly Made Indian Sweets: LaZeez offers freshly made Bengali Sweets, Jalebis, Khoya Barfis, Namkeens & nuts for all occasions
Treats and Snacks: For a sweet treat guests can opt they offer traditional Indian sweets like Rabri, Kheer, Beetroot Halwa, Gulab Jamun, and more. They also have several different pastries and cakes like Brownies, Tres Leches, Pineapple Pastries, and Choco Lava Cake. Milkshakes include options like Bananas, Oreos, and Mango.
LaZeez by Dhaba’s full menu is available for pickup and delivery with Toast Tab.
LaZeez by Dhaba is located at 745 Route 46. (973) 878-0062. Click here for the website.
Open Monday to Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and Friday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio and Jigar Shah at LaZeez.
Jillian (left) and Hector (right), Preschool Advantage parents with Nancy Bangiola, Preschool Advantage Executive Director (center). Photo by Baseline Productions
MORRIS COUNTY — Preschool Advantage, a Morristown-based non-profit organization, held its 2022 annual Turning Leaves benefit dinner at Brooklake Country Club in Florham Park on October 12. After a two-year hiatus, the event returned with great energy fueled by guest emcee Guy Adami of CNBC’s “Fast Money,” who challenged the 250 attendees to give generously in support of this important cause. They took note, raising over $200,000 to fund preschool tuition for children in our community. The event was sponsored by the William T. & Marie J. Henderson Foundation with additional support from Hackensack Meridian Health, Private Advisor Group, Wiley Malehorn Sirota & Raynes, and several other individual donor sponsors.
At this year’s event, Preschool Advantage honored its 11 past board presidents. Under their selfless leadership, the nonprofit has sent 1,300 local children to preschool since 1995. Special recognition was given to the trustee, Gail Reuther for her 40 years as a director at Mount Olive Child Care & Learning Center, a partner preschool of the Organization. Preschool Advantage Executive Director, Nancy Bangiola noted, “Gail has generously shared her decades of experience and expertise in early childhood education with Preschool Advantage. Her peers recognize her as a leader in the field, and we consider ourselves very lucky to have benefitted from her wisdom for so many years.”
Preschool Advantage also recognized a local family whose twin daughters attend preschool with a grant from the Organization. The twins’ mother, Jillian, remarked “The cost of preschool turned out to be one of our biggest challenges.” Expressing gratitude to the supporters in attendance, Jillian shared that her daughters are thriving and will be ready for kindergarten in the fall. “It has been an extraordinary journey watching our children learn and grow,” she said with great emotion.
Preschool Advantage funds preschool tuition for children, ages three and four at our 27 high-quality partner preschools in Morris and Somerset Counties. Our mission is to give children a fair chance to succeed in life. We open the doors of preschool and unlock the possibilities beyond. Our vision is that all children in the community begin kindergarten ready to learn and grow.
The organization is supported by individual donors, and by grants from foundations and businesses. Since its inception in 1995, Preschool Advantage has funded preschool tuition for more than 1,300 area children. To learn more about Preschool Advantage, call (973) 532- 2501 or click here.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
DOVER — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, and Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney announce the implementation of a joint Driving While Intoxicated checkpoint in Dover beginning in December.
Law enforcement personnel from the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and Dover Police Department will be conducting the checkpoint. DWI checkpoints are funded by grants received by the Prosecutor’s Office from the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety to conduct checkpoints in conjunction with municipal police departments throughout Morris County.
The grant is in effect until the end of September 2023.
The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office has coordinated sobriety checks in the past throughout various municipalities in Morris County and will continue to do so in the future with advance public notice.
Regrettably, impaired, and drunk driving continues to pose a serious threat and harm to our citizens and now, co-joined with all too many cases of distracted driving because of cell phones, these types of operations to deter such behavior remain useful and necessary to protect the public.
Woodam Korean BBQ is located at 650 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains
MORRIS PLAINS — There is a new player in the downtown Morris Plains dining scene, and it’s certainly a winner. This past September 10th Woodam Korean BBQ opened its doors to the public with a grand opening celebration. The restaurant is located at 650 Speedwell Avenue, a few doors down from the iconic Arthur’s Tavern. The building had been dormant for the past ten years, previously the home of Cocoa Pazzo. During the past couple of years, I have had the privilege to visit a couple of outstanding Korean BBQ venues in the Parsippany area and I was anxious to check out this newest addition to what has become one of my favorite culinary treats.
My usual group of hungry epicures and I arrived at Woodam BBQ, an appealing, aesthetically pleasing colonial revival style building, in a busy, vibrant downtown neighborhood. An attractive two-story brick structure, with multiple, stylishly large, white wooden framed arched windows, decorative dental molding, ornate metal gratings, and symmetrical columns supporting an overhanging canopy. Architecturally beautiful building, and one that clearly reflects an equally impressive interior design.
Yook Ke Jang
Being the first from my group to arrive, I was warmly greeted by the smiling, pleasant, and genial David Oh, one of the co-owners of Woodam BBQ. Mr. Oh, who insisted I call him David, showed me to a comfortably situated table, sharply appointed along with the appropriate chopsticks, sealed in a paper wrapper displaying the restaurant’s name. As my group arrived a few minutes later, our personable, helpful, and friendly server, Suany, expeditiously addressed our needs. Water, menus, and wine glasses immediately appeared, and wine was uncorked. Both Mr. Oh and Suany could not have been more attentive or professional making sure we were comfortable, and any questions we had about the menu politely answered.
Patrick Minutillo
While the group perused the menu, it gave me the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the restaurant. The décor was a tasteful blending of an older, more traditional Asian ambiance mixed in with a modern, upscale vibe. The soft cream-colored walls, adorned with tasteful Asian artifacts, were offset by the hues of the soft and comfortable chocolate brown paneling, wood beam floor, and ceiling tiles. The high vaulted ceilings, with a modernistic lighted globe hanging from the rafters, are an impressive feature. The room is bright, airy, and comfortably lit by the floor-to-ceiling windows, which perfectly accentuate the rest of the dining area, which can seat 80 guests. The atmosphere is sophisticated and elegant, yet casual, comfortable, and homey. Assorted Asian artifacts, such as assorted statues of Buddha, teapots, and artwork are carefully and tastefully placed throughout the room, along with calming, live potted, and flowering plants, which are all nurtured by the restaurant staff. The meticulous attention given to even the smallest detail was evident and brilliantly done.
There is a 12-seat standalone bar at the rear of the houseChopsticks, sealed in a paper wrapper display the restaurant’s name, Woodam Korean BBQ
Granite-topped tables, each equipped with a flaming, smokeless grill in the center, are comfortably situated around the room. The polished chocolate brown woodwork, distressed flooring, and cushioned black leather seats help ensure a comfortable and relaxing dining experience. Woodam does not possess a liquor license, and guests are welcome to BYOB; plus, there is a 12-seat standalone bar at the rear of the house, where you can sit, eat, or just relax if you prefer. Interestingly Woodam BBQ does offer wine by the bottle that you can purchase at the restaurant. New Jersey State law now allows restaurants that do not have a liquor license to partner with a New Jersey winery to serve their wines at their restaurant. So, you may still bring along your own bottle, but if you forget or prefer, wines from Villa Milagro Vineyards, a Warren County Vineyard, are available to enjoy with your meal.
David Oh, one of the co-owners of Woodam BBQ
The second floor of the two-storied restaurant offers a private party room that can accommodate 50 guests. The room provides the same polished elegance and aesthetics as downstairs. There is also an elevator available to accommodate guests who may have trouble navigating stairs, as well as restrooms available on each floor.
Our personable, helpful, and friendly server, Suany
While my friends debated over the appetizers, I took the opportunity to chat with both co-owners of Woodam BBQ, David Oh, and Chef Eleazar Martinez (aka Chef Eli). Theirs is a friendship that goes back 23 years, a friendship which brings experience and expertise to this, their newest venture, which is a combination hard to find. David Oh, who has opened about a half dozen restaurants in NYC, claims Woodam BBQ as his first venture into New Jersey. Mr. Oh explained that it was the pandemic that brought himself and Chef Eli together with a vision to open the now-renovated and reimagined Woodam BBQ. As for “Chef Eli” Martinez, he has a storied thirty-year-plus background in the culinary world. Somewhat of a celebrity Chef, he has been noted in such publications as the NY Times, Chicago Tribune, and Forbes. A Honduran native, whose resume includes working at several distinguished Michelin-rated NYC restaurants, including Jean-Georges, Daniel, Bann, and for the past decade, Executive Chef of Woo Lae Oak, in SoHo. Chef Eli’s commitment to his craft is evident, as he even spent time living in Korea to perfect the knowledge and skills that now enable him to create those authentic flavors that are true to traditional Korean cuisine, while still reflecting a modern aesthetic and sensibility. According to their website, Woodam embraces a unique and fresh approach to Korean cuisine by fusing the highest quality traditional and contemporary ingredients to their dishes, and that was obvious in the quality of the dishes we tried.
Korean Fried Chicken
We began this dining adventure with an assortment of shared appetizers. Our apps included Mandu (pan-fried, house-made, beef short rib dumplings), Pa Jun (traditional sizzling pancake, with scallion and mixed peppers), O Jing Aw Ti Kim (tempura calamari, shitake, and chayote, tossed in a sweet and soy glaze), and Korean Fried Chicken (spicy honey chili and sesame, glazed with sweet and sour pickled daikon). All the beautifully plated dishes came with perfect accompanying dipping sauces that further elevated each dish. Every app was perfectly prepared, delicious, and quickly devoured by our group as we discussed our entrée. As I have found typical in this cuisine, the balance of intense flavors and textures hit all the taste receptors; sweet, sour, tangy, umami, and spicy.
Mandu (pan-fried, house-made, beef short rib dumplings)O Jing Aw Ti Kim (tempura calamari, shitake, and chayote, tossed in a sweet and soy glaze)
The diverse menu, included many tempting and expected Korean dishes, including several rice standards, such as Bi Bim Bap (rice topped with carrot, zucchini, spinach, beansprouts, royal fern, daikon, crisp lettuce greens, and spicy gochujang mixed sauce is always a favorite). The selection of mouth-watering traditional entrees, as well as their soups and stews, were also hard to resist, but we agreed to share the traditional Korean Barbecue selections of Kal Bi (sweet and savory boneless beef short ribs) and Sam Gyup Sal (high-quality pork belly – an immensely popular, amazingly delicious Korean dish). All the barbeque entrees come marinated in the restaurant’s signature soy, sesame, and garlic sauce, and are served with fresh lettuce wraps and miso paste, kimchi, shredded pickle daikon, namul with white or brown rice.
Korean Barbeque
The arrival of our Kal bi and Sam Gyup Sal provided us the opportunity to try out Woodam’s tabletop flaming smokeless grills. (No exhaust vents are needed here) If you have not yet tried dining at a Korean Barbeque, you are missing out on a fun and exciting communal dining experience. This is a memorable way for family and/or friends to come together and participate in the cooking and sharing of a meal. And yes, if you prefer the staff will either assist you with the cooking or do it for you. Just relax and enjoy it. With some assistance and advice from our knowledgeable server, Suany, we chose to cook our own healthy (did I mention, Korean food is extremely healthy and nutritious) meats and vegetables.
Savoring our now perfectly cooked meats and veggies, while wrapping them in accompanying crispy lettuce wraps, along with some of that miso paste, kimchi, daikon, namul, and rice, was not only delectable but a truly pleasurable way to enjoy a meal. A burst of flavor in every bite!
We closed out our meal with a nice, enticing, treat of three large scoops of ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry) placed atop an ice mold. Perfect ending to a great meal!
We closed out our meal with a nice, enticing, treat of three large scoops of ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry) placed atop an ice mold
My recommendation: if you have not yet stopped in at the recently opened Woodam Korean Barbeque, put it on your calendar for the next time you are looking for that special dining experience, or to celebrate that special occasion. I am confident you will have a great time and a great meal. Thank you to Woodam Korean BBQ, Chef Eli, David Oh, and their staff for the cordial hospitality.
Woodam Korean BBQ is located at 650 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains. (973) 330-9112. Menu: www.woodamnj.com. Dine In – Curbside Pickup – No Contact Delivery. Street Parking and Municipal Parking Lot. Elevator Availability. Closed Monday.
BOONTON — Suite Roots’ held a ribbon-cutting grand opening on Sunday, November 13.
The Owner/Creator, Rachael Music, has been a licensed hairstylist since 2008. Her passion for the industry is reflected by her communication, honesty and of course, continued education.
Boonton Council Member Ward 1 Cy Wekilsky, Owner/Creator Suite Roots’ Rachael Music and Boonton Council Member Ward 3 Joseph E. Bock, Jr.
Whether you’re looking for something natural and ‘lived in’ or something bold and bright, she will meticulously do her best to achieve your desired results while keeping your hair in its healthiest state! Rachael offers various services from cuts + color to keratin treatments, extensions, and bridal.
During your appointment at Suite Roots, her focus is always on you – your time is never shared. Her goal is for you to never feel rushed, always feel comfortable, and walk out smiling!
Although a punny play on words, the name ‘Suite Roots’ symbolizes her sweet roots here in New Jersey after an amazing over five years spent in Northern California.
The ribbon cutting of Suite Roots, 410 Main Street, Boonton
Suite Roots is located at 410 Main Street, Boonton. To make an appointment call (201) 241-2425.
Rachael with her son and husband at the ribbon cuttingDisplay of merchandise for sale
HANOVER — The Whippany Fire Department will host Breakfast with Santa on Sunday, December 11 starting at 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon at the firehouse at 10 Troy Hills Road, Whippany.
Attendance costs $8.00 for adults, $6 .00 for seniors 65 and older, and $5.00 for children ages three to ten. Children younger than three are free. Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.
Members of the fire company will be cooking a pancake breakfast with eggs, sausage, juice coffee, and tea.
Attendees can get their pictures taken with Santa, and St. Nick will trade in his sleigh for a tour of Whippany on a fire engine.
This schematic shows what the new Morris County Courthouse is likely to look like view from Washington Street
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners authorized moving forward Monday, November 21, on the schematic design phase for a new courthouse slated for a county-owned parcel on Schuyler Place in Morristown after reviewing a revised, preliminary concept during a public meeting.
The vote followed a PowerPoint presentation to the full board and the public by Roger Lichtman and Lisa Tsang of the Clifton-based infrastructure firm, AECOM, which was originally contracted for the project in November 2019.
The COVID-19 pandemic paused action on what had evolved after 2018 into a 140,000-square-foot design proposal in 2020. After some review and a restart on the courthouse plan this past July, a 116,998-square-foot, less costly proposal emerged and was shared by the Board of Commissioner’s Courthouse Committee.
Commissioner Stephen Shaw
“It’s important to point out that we are not approving the courthouse or building the courthouse at this time. The objective this afternoon is to answer questions and get a consensus from the Board to permit AECOM to move from concept design to a schematic design phase,” said Commissioner Stephen Shaw, Chairman of the Courthouse Committee.
“This is the first time the full balance of the Commissioner board and the public is seeing this recommendation. As we move through design, we will engage representatives of the Judiciary, Sheriff’s and Prosecutor’s Office, and representatives from Morristown.”
Sheriff James Gannon
Sheriff James Gannon, Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, and Assignment Judge Stuart Minkowitz attended the meeting to speak on the need for the new courthouse as well as thank the Courthouse Committee and AECOM for working closely with them in developing different conceptual designs over the past couple of years.
Commissioner Deborah Smith, another Courthouse Committee member, noted that a county-owned pocket park on the corner of Schuyler Place and Washington Street, which would have been completely covered by some prior conceptual designs, is now mostly preserved in the new conceptual design.
“I’m very pleased with the results of the redesign. It preserves a good portion of the park, which is very important. The county created that park by removing an old building many years ago, and it is heavily used by people. I think it adds to the appeal of the entire proposal,” Commissioner Smith said.
Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty attended the meeting, expressing an interest in preserving the park.
The overall scope of the project has narrowed, as has the overall cost when calculating inflation – a point noted by Commissioner Douglas Cabana, who also is on the Committee.
“We needed to develop and evaluate alternatives to the 2020 plan, something that addressed post-pandemic realities, reduced costs, balanced the need for staff with the public well-being, and, ultimately, still provide adequately expanded court facilities that meet the needs of the state judiciary in Morristown, which is the county’s responsibility,” said Commissioner Cabana.
The new conceptual design unveiled last night includes eight courtrooms, but a reduction of 23,000 square feet from the 2020 proposal. The new design also adds a 200-person jury assembly room and eliminates prior proposals for relocating some county and court departments into the new facility.
Background Providing adequate court facilities and securing those facilities are the sole responsibility of each respective county in New Jersey. To assess those needs, the county commissioned a Space Needs and Facilities Assessment in 2017.
That assessment, completed in 2018, identified a significant shortfall in criminal, family and civil court facilities, and detailed the outdated conditions in the existing courthouse complex, which includes the historic courthouse along Washington Street that was originally constructed in 1827.
The complex, situated along Washington Street between Court Street and Western Avenue, will be preserved but is not suitable to continue most court operations.
That building was augmented three times before 1900, according to Judge Minkowitz, noting other portions were added in the 1950s and 1970s. The complex, situated along Washington Street between Court Street and Western Avenue, will be preserved but is not suitable to continue most court operations.
The County Commissioners, then known as Freeholders, held public hearings prior to their unanimous vote to adopt two capital ordinances in late 2018 to fund the design phases of a new courthouse along Schuyler Place. Balancing the needs of the court system with the financial concerns of county taxpayers has continued throughout the process and involved the county government administration, Commissions, members of the judiciary, and the Sheriff’s Office.
