Home Care In Denville, NJ

By Matthew Nonnenmacher

PublishedNovember 26, 2023 at 6:07 PM

DENVILLE, NJ - TAPinto Denville sat down with new Councilman-elect Lou Maffei recently so that the residents of Denville can get to know him before he takes office on January 1, 2024. Lou Maffei was recently elected to the Township of Denville's Council during this past November election along with his running mates, Mayor Tom Andes, Councilwoman Angie Cote and new Councilman elect Robbie Simpson.

So how happy are you to have won the election?

It still has not fully sunk in yet, but I'm happy that the hard work paid off. I could not have asked for better running mates, and we had an incredible group of volunteers and supporters that worked to get us across the finish line.

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Why did you want to run for Denville Council?

Initially, I had a lot of reservations about running. I am very private, and when you run for office you are obviously in the public eye. However, after speaking with many former and present council members they gave me advice and encouraged me to run. Having served on several volunteer boards for 20+ years has given me the experience to take on a larger role in our community.

What is the one thing you'd like to see happen in 2024 in Denville?

I would like to see an initiative to showcase the history of our citizens with particular emphasis on our veterans and their service.

The Downtown in Denville is fantastic. Are there any ideas to even further improve it?

Part of the overall success of our town depends on the vitality of our downtown business district. In any business you have to periodically reinvent yourself in order to keep up with business trends and stay relevant. I think that with the business owners leading the way and with public input, the council can help to keep our downtown vibrant and successful.

What are the biggest challenges you see as a Council member regarding upcoming town issues?

Without a doubt it is the unfunded mandates forced on us by the state with the affordable housing mandates being the worst of them. People need to understand that our state is openly at war with the suburbs. The affordable housing debate has been ongoing for 40+ years, but the latest iteration of this being forced by the courts has been disastrous. We simply cannot sustain the type of growth being forced on us nor do we have the infrastructure to do so.

Give us an insight into your mindset and how you look at the town for the next 3 - 5 years?

I think that the issues will remain the same - affordable housing mandates, supporting local business and our downtown, increased recreational opportunities and open space, public safety, flood mitigation, and maintaining stable tax rates. As council members our job will be to work with our administration and professionals to formulate a strategy that best manages these issues.

What specifically in your background makes you uniquely qualified for helping the town for the next several years?

I was fortunate enough to have been born and raised in Denville. I have a good understanding of our community. My family life has been centered in Denville, and with my experience on many volunteer boards and organizations, I am ready to take on the responsibility in helping to shape the future of our community.

Tell us about yourself personally and professionally.

My wife and I both grew up in Denville, and we have two children who went through the Denville public school system. I have been employed at University Hospital as a Senior Network Security Engineer for 6 years having formerly worked for UMDNJ for 8 years. I have been in the Information Technology (specifically Network Security / Cybersecurity) field since 2002 with experience in several industries including financial services and military/defense.

DENVILLE, NJ - A "catastrophic failure" of Denville's main well water pump is forcing the imposition of mandatory water restrictions in the township, officials announced Friday.

Effective Monday, May 22, outdoor water use will be restricted for all residential and commercial properties. The restrictions will stay in effect for 90 days unless repealed or extended, said the township

"The mandatory water restrictions are in place to ensure an adequate water supply for water customers and fire protection service," it said. "The restrictions have become immediately necessary as the industrial pump in the township’s primary well suffered a catastrophic failure and as a result has placed considerable stress on the other potable wells in our system. According to our vendors, the timeframe to have our primary well up and running is approximately two (2) to three (3) months."

Properties with even number addresses will be allowed outside water use on even number days and those having odd number addresses on odd days, the township said. It stressed that the rule includes all businesses operating from or at a residential address.

"Outdoor water usage shall include the watering of lawns, shrubs, ornamental plants, sod, etc., as well as the washing of homes/commercial businesses windows, driveways, sidewalks, gutters and homes," said the statement. "The restrictions also include the washing of automobiles, trucks, ATVs, boats, etc. If a commercial business is to complete work at a household, we will hold the water restrictions to the odd/even number of the home in accordance with the water restrictions in place."

However, the township stressed that businesses "that rely and survive on outdoor water use, whose business address is separate from a residential address, such as car washes, nurseries, power washing companies, etc., will be exempt from the odd/even water restrictions."

It said the odd/even water restrictions "will remain in effect for offices and commercial buildings as it pertains to lawn watering, window washing, power washing, etc., for any non-essential work and/or updates."

Multi-family dwellings, including apartment style housing, will be only permitted to use outdoor water on odd days," said Denville. On even days, such water usage is prohibited.

The town urged residents and business to voluntarily observe and implement indoor water conservation measures and said "property owners who violate the above water restrictions shall be subject to a municipal summons, along with fine and penalties associated therewith."

Shamrock Shakes, apple cider donuts and first-day-of-spring ice cream; there are some foods we wait all year for. Personally, though, no limited-edition treat keeps me counting down the days quite like The Pasta Shop's "Sweet Corn and Mascarpone Ravioli."

And — judging from the cumulative 1,400 likes the dish got on Instagram last year — I know I'm not the only one.

Handmade pasta with unique, seasonal flavors

The Pasta Shop is a cozy neighborhood eatery in Denville that serves high-quality handmade pastas and wood-fired Italian classics. The restaurant's menu is small (like its interior), and changes based on local produce availability and the flavors of the season. Under that design, chef-co-owner Tommy Pollio brought the Sweet Corn Ravioli to the shop in 2017.

"When creating The Pasta Shop," Pollio said, "my goal was to embody the philosophy of simple dishes with amazing ingredients. I apply that thinking to our locale, just as they do in Italy. Sweet Corn is a summertime staple in New Jersey, so we love to feature it while it's here for the season."

And, when that crop does arrive for the season? The public — myself included — goes nuts. I recall an August afternoon last year when I enjoyed an early dinner at the shop. Every party in the intimate space seemed to have at least one order of the artisan pockets on their table. By the takeout counter, lines of to-go boxes stood open, vibrant red "CORN RAVIOLI" stickers on their flaps. Two young women next to me took photos of the dish.

If this hype sounds peculiar to you, then you definitely haven't tried the Sweet Corn and Mascarpone Ravioli yet. Allow me to break them down for you.

A beautifully plated dish with a one-of-a-kind taste

The Sweet Corn and Mascarpone Ravioli is a hearty dish of corn-stuffed pasta (usually 6-8 pieces) served in "truffle sauce" with fresh basil and parmigiana. A shaved summer truffle supplement can be added for $10. When the meal arrives at the table, it comes on a sleek, white plate with the ravioli and accoutrements beautifully arranged in near perfect geometric symmetry. Objectively, it is quite the photogenic dinner.

Looks aside, however, it is the unique flavor (as well as texture) of the Corn Ravioli that truly makes the dish a seasonal showstopper. The "truffle sauce" is rich and buttery, which contrasts perfectly with the corn. The filling is smooth and creamy with distant notes of a sweet, homemade corn bread, and its mascarpone cheese component provides a soft, moist lightness that a traditional ricotta filling could not.

And as for the cook on the pasta? Flawlessly al dente, every time.

Creating a summer classic 'to be known for'

Pollio has been making the ravioli since 2011, and it evolved over the years. "But when I opened The Pasta Shop," he said, "I knew I wanted it to be a summer classic here that we would become known for."

Judging from the response of local diners, and the buzz of the internet, it appears the Chef is well on his way to achieving that goal.

So, if you have yet to try The Pasta Shop's delicious summer dish, head over to downtown Denville. Like the Reese's Peanut Butter Easter Egg, this is one seasonal treat you just don't want to miss.

The Sweet Corn and Mascarpone Ravioli will be served from July through early September at The Pasta Shop. To monitor the dish's seasonal availability, click here.

The Downtown Denville Business Improvement District (BID) is delighted to announce the outstanding winners of the recent Holiday Window Decorating Contest, a festive event that brought charm, creativity, and a little competitiveness to our beloved downtown business area.

Major Award Winner ($500.): Bluebird by Bullets Boots, 8 Broadway, Diane Petrovski, Proprietor

Major Award Runner-up ($250.): Urban Muse, 82 Broadway, Kristen & Tracy Pamperin, proprietors, Jeff Wagner, Manager

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People’s Choice Award ($500.): Ivy Hair & Make-up, 20 Broadway, Megan Scala, Maureen Cruz, Ria & Maple Brigante, Proprietors.

People’s Choice Runner-up: Inmiko, 6 Broadway, Angela DeFillips. Proprietor

These winners, as well as all the shop owners, captivated the community with their imaginative displays, adding a touch of magic to Downtown Denville during the holiday season.

“I am thrilled to announce the winners of the Window Decorating Contest, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity within our community. Congratulations to each winner for their exceptional efforts in making Downtown Denville shine,” said Jeff Halpern (pictured with outgoing Executive BID Director Deborah Graybill and the winners), Chairperson of the Design Committee of the Downtown Denville BID. “This enhances all area residents to think Shop Local and support small businesses not only in our amazing community, but everywhere!”

Jeffrey Halpern, a local Realtor, was recently named Chairperson of the Design Committee. He is committed to Denville and is dedicated to enhancing the aesthetic appeal of our town and fostering a sense of community spirit. “We’re just beginning,” continues Halpern, “our plans include to soon introduce new initiatives, both in appearance and through technology. All I have to say, Stay Tuned.”

For more information on the committee or the BID, or to get involved with the Design Committee, please reach out to Jeffrey Halpern, at 201.317.7527 or [email protected]

MORRISTOWN, NJ - The 32nd Anniversary of First Night Morris County will take place on Dec. 31 in Morristown.

First Night Morris County is an alcohol-free and substance-free celebration of arts and culture.

This year, according to organizers, there will be more than 70 live performances, 20 venues and more than 50 on-demand films taking place from 4 p.m. to midnight in downtown Morristown.

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Events include:

Theater, music (rock, jazz, classical, opera), visual arts, a film festival, children’s programs

Fireworks at 9:15 p.m.; the program concludes with a Midnight Countdown Featuring Fireworks to welcome in the New Year.

Complimentary Shuttles Start at 4:45 p.m.

Children’s Fun Festival at Morristown High School from 4:45 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Film Festival Starting at 6 p.m.

Complimentary Parking at any Morristown parking garage starting at 4 p.m.

Complimentary mobile app & printed program**

On-demand access from 4 p.m. on Dec. 31 to 4 p.m. Jan 1, 2024.

Your First Night Morris County admission button (ticket) gives you access to innovative, diverse and high-quality performances ideal for participants of all ages.

In-person venues are within close walking distance of one another, and virtual programs are accessible through the mobile app or website. For one affordable price, you and your friends and family will enjoy unlimited access to all performances in person, streaming, or on-demand.*

Pricing is $25 per ticket or $22.50 per ticket for a family 4-pack (early bird pricing until midnight on Dec. 21) or $30 per ticket or $23.75 per ticket for a family 4-pack (beginning Dec. 22)

Purchase tickets here.

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