PARSIPPANY — Father Nico Quintos was installed as pastor of St. Ann Parish in Parsippany by Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney during a Mass held on October 25. 

Appointed earlier in the year, he continues serving in the Paterson Diocese Marriage Tribunal and ministering to retired priests. Born in the Philippines, he holds degrees from St. Paul Seminary and Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in professional counseling at Seton Hall University. 

Parish leaders praise him as an engaging speaker whose preaching encourages a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. His installation brought together parishioners, clergy, family, and friends in a warm celebration of faith, unity, and new beginnings, reflecting the community’s deep appreciation for his pastoral dedication and compassionate spirit.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, December 2025. Click here to read the magazine.

PARSIPPANY — Thanksgiving arrived early for many local families thanks to the Morris County Sons of Italy Lodge 2561, which once again continued its heartfelt annual tradition of providing complete ready-to-cook turkey dinners to households needing a little extra support this holiday season.

The morning began at Parsippany ShopRite, where members of the Morris County Lodge — including President Joe Jannarone Jr. and Second Vice President Mike Fazzio — gathered to purchase and load several pallets of full turkey dinners. With carts and pallets filled high with holiday staples, the group worked together to ensure everything was packed and prepared for distribution.

From ShopRite, the team headed to the Parsippany Child Day Care Center on Baldwin Road, which served as the central hub for organizing and distributing meals to families across the Parsippany area. The boxes will be delivered to households and partner locations, helping to ensure local families can enjoy a warm, festive Thanksgiving celebration.

Each generously filled box included a Butterball turkey, mashed potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, holiday stuffing, turkey gravy, and green bean casserole — a complete, traditional Thanksgiving feast. The Sons of Italy also added a sweet finishing touch: assorted pumpkin pies to make holiday dessert just as special.

Thanks to the care and dedication of the Morris County Sons of Italy, dozens of families will sit down to a comforting and joyful Thanksgiving meal.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, December 2025. Click here to read the magazine.

MORRIS COUNTY — Optimum and the Interfaith Food Pantry Network successfully wrapped up a major hunger-relief initiative that brought thousands of donated food items to Morris County residents in need.

During a period of heightened demand for food assistance statewide, Optimum stepped up this season by partnering with IFPN and placing donation boxes inside select Optimum retail stores. Community members responded generously, dropping off non-perishable food items that directly supported families, seniors, and veterans experiencing food insecurity.

“We were honored to partner with the Interfaith Food Pantry Network in this critical effort to help fight hunger across our local communities,” said Elton Hart, Vice President and General Manager of Optimum Tri-State. “With the need for food assistance at an all-time high, it has never been more urgent for us to come together and support our neighbors. Every donation made a meaningful difference and strengthened the ties that bind us here in Morris County.”

The collection effort ran through November 20, 2025, with donation boxes located at Optimum stores in East Hanover, Edison, Morris Township, and Piscataway. The initiative provided an important boost to the Interfaith Food Pantry Network’s ongoing work to ensure Morris County residents have access to nutritious food and essential resources.

MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) threw cold water on the idea that New Jersey could withhold federal taxes or funding for federal programs in protest of the current administration in Washington, D.C. Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill suggested New Jersey could stop paying federal taxes during an appearance on comedian Jon Stewart’s podcast.

“States have no authority to withhold federal tax dollars and are legally obligated to uphold funding for federal programs, period,” said Sen. Pennacchio. “That being said, Governor-elect Sherrill, who ran on the Republican platform of affordability, can save consumers money on their high utility bills by eliminating the sales tax and Societal Benefits Charge. Rather than focusing on running partisan interference against the federal government, Democrats should turn their attention to deliver real, immediate relief for New Jersey families.”

Senator Pennacchio is a co-prime sponsor of legislation with Senator Latham Tiver (R-8) that would suspend the sales and use tax, as well as the Societal Benefits Charge on electric bills. Estimates project their proposal would save the average households hundreds of dollars on energy costs.

Read the full text of the bill, S-4765, online.

MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Mobile Unit will be stationed at the Morris County Library, 30 East Hanover Avenue, Whippany, New Jersey, later this month to provide REAL ID, registration renewals, and duplicate title services.

The mobile unit will be available on the following dates:
    •    Monday, December 22
    •    Tuesday, December 23
    •    Wednesday, December 24
    •    Friday, December 26

Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
By appointment only.

Appointment scheduling opens Monday, December 1, at 11:00 a.m. and can be made by clicking here.

Please note: This is an official New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission event. All inquiries should be directed to the Motor Vehicle Commission:
Phone: 609-292-6500
Email: [email protected]

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio recently presented a proclamation honoring Michele Picone, the retiring Director of Human Services, recognizing her 21 years of devoted service to the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.

Over her tenure, Michele was instrumental in growing and strengthening services — including expanding the Parsippany Senior Center and the Parsippany Food Pantry, and launching numerous programs that benefit residents of all ages.

The Township expresses its deep gratitude to Michele and wishes her all the best in her well-earned retirement.

PARSIPPANY — The Township Council of Parsippany-Troy Hills has formally endorsed applications by Fresh Dispensary Parsippany, LLC, and Troy Hills Club, LLC, in their pursuit of Class 5 Recreational Cannabis Retailer Licenses from the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC). The unanimous vote followed a thorough review by the township’s Cannabis Advisory Committee and reflects the businesses’ compliance with local ordinances and zoning regulations.

Fresh Dispensary Parsippany plans to operate at 3159 Route 46 East, a location shared with A2B Indian Veg Restaurant, Fuddruckers, and Days Inn. Meanwhile, Troy Hills Club has identified 2888 Route 10 West—within the Pelican Plaza, home to Dollar Tree, Planet Fitness, Mt. Tabor Vapor, Cinnamon Indian Restaurant, and Bruno’s Italian Bistro—as its business location.

The Council’s decision stems from the regulatory framework enacted following New Jersey voters’ approval of adult-use cannabis in 2020. That landmark vote led to Governor Phil Murphy’s signing of P.L. 2021, c.16, which established statewide oversight of the cannabis industry.

In anticipation of increased licensing requests, the Township Council passed Ordinance 2024:21 in late 2024, establishing the Cannabis Advisory Committee to evaluate prospective cannabis establishments. This committee recommended approval for both Fresh Dispensary and Troy Hills Club, stating each proposal met or exceeded municipal standards.

“Each application complies with our zoning and regulatory expectations and has the potential to deliver meaningful benefits to our local economy,” township officials noted. The businesses are expected to generate new jobs and revenue for the community, aligning with the township’s broader goals for growth and innovation.

Parsippany has capped the number of licensed cannabis businesses within its borders at three. With this action, the township signals its openness to responsibly managed cannabis retail as part of its economic development strategy.

Both resolutions adopted by the Council express support for the license applications pending final approval from the CRC and the issuance of all necessary local permits.

Ownership and Corporate Details

Troy Hills Club, LLC lists its registered and main business address as 445 Morris Avenue, Boonton, NJ 07005. Its members are:

• Shoaib Iqbal, Member/Manager (Boonton, NJ)
• Luis Manuel Brito, Member/Manager (West New York, NJ)
• George Tsempidis, Member/Manager (Wayne, NJ)

Fresh Dispensary Parsippany, LLC is registered at 971 US Highway 202N, Suite N, Branchburg, NJ 08876, with its main business address at 15 Worlds Fair Drive, Somerset, NJ 08873. Its listed members are:

• Wayne Hanson, Member/Manager (Avon, CO)
• Anusha Alagarasan, Member/Manager (Weehawken, NJ)

With both proposals advancing to the state review stage, Parsippany-Troy Hills could soon see its first cannabis dispensaries open their doors—bringing with them new opportunities and a new chapter in the township’s commercial landscape.

PARSIPPANY — The spirit of Thanksgiving filled the Parsippany PAL this week as Kiwanis Clubs across Northern New Jersey came together to serve more than 200 hot turkey dinners to senior citizens and individuals in need. The annual event brought smiles, warm meals, and a strong sense of community to residents just in time for the holiday season.

Working side by side, members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, and dedicated Key Club students from Parsippany Hills High School and Parsippany High School helped prepare and serve the meals, demonstrating the powerful impact of community service.

A Partnership for Good

“This is what Kiwanis is all about—serving our community with kindness, compassion, and teamwork,” said Frank Cahill, Governor of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International. “Seeing our Kiwanis members, Key Club students, local partners, and volunteers come together to bring comfort and connection to hundreds of seniors reminds us why service matters—especially during the holidays.”

The Parsippany PAL played a central role in hosting the event and providing a welcoming environment for all who attended.

“The PAL is always proud to partner with organizations that lift up our community,” said Nick Bronzino, Executive Director of the Parsippany PAL. “Working with the Kiwanis Clubs to support our seniors and neighbors in need made this event truly special. Together, we created a space where everyone felt valued and cared for.”

A Meal With All the Trimmings

The Thanksgiving feast—served hot and fresh—was made possible through the generosity of local partners. Sobhy Abdelhady, former owner of IHOP, provided crucial support preparing the dinner to ensure every guest received a hearty turkey meal.

“We are honored to partner with the Kiwanis Clubs and Key Club students to host this meaningful event,” said Abdelhady. “Providing a warm meal and a welcoming space for our senior citizens and those in need is truly special, and we’re proud to be part of such a heartfelt community effort.” ShopRite of Parsippany donated a large portion of the turkey, as well as 100 additional pies, to help make this event very successful.

Guests were also treated to an array of holiday pies, generously sponsored by Barbara Freda of Troy Hills Center, Amy Nealy of Alvita Home Care, Clelia Pergola of NJ Elder Law, and Jill Iorio of Willow Tree. Attendees chose from Pumpkin, Sweet Potato, Apple, Apple Crumb, or Coconut pies—each supplied by ShopRite of Parsippany at a discount, adding a sweet finishing touch to the celebration.

Transportation Support Makes the Event Accessible

To ensure every senior who wished to attend could do so, transportation was provided by Percy Zegarra of Premier Car Service and the Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs, with sponsorship from the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover. Seniors from the Dover area received door-to-door service, making participation easy and stress-free.

Seniors from the Parsippany area were transported by the Parsippany Transit System, ensuring convenient access for local residents as well.

“An event like this shows the true heart of our community,” said Sergio Rodriguez, President of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover. “When organizations, businesses, and volunteers unite with one purpose—to take care of our seniors—it creates a moment of dignity and joy that stays with people long after the meal is over.”

A Celebration of Service

This year’s Thanksgiving event at the Parsippany PAL served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when service organizations, students, businesses, and volunteers join forces. Through collaboration and compassion, more than 200 local seniors received nutritious meals—and something even more valuable: a sense of belonging.

MORRIS COUNTY — Superior Court Judge Stuart A. Minkowitz has dismissed Mayor James Barberio’s amended petition seeking a recount and recheck of the November 4, 2025, Parsippany mayoral election, citing the campaign’s failure to provide the court with the legally required information needed to establish jurisdiction.

In the November 4 election, Barberio was defeated by challenger Pulkit Desai, according to the official canvass. Barberio’s petition alleged that a mistake occurred in the counting or tabulation of votes and claimed that at least four voters may have cast both mail-in and provisional ballots.

Barberio first filed for a recount on November 24. That request was dismissed the same day because it did not include the date the election was certified—information the court needed to determine whether the petition was filed within the statutory three-day deadline, as required under N.J.S.A. 19:28-1.

Barberio then submitted an amended petition on Tuesday, November 25. However, Judge Minkowitz ruled that the revised filing still failed to provide the certification date of the election results. Without that information, the court could not determine whether the petition met the strictly enforced filing window.

In his written Statement of Reasons, Judge Minkowitz noted that the amended filing referenced the County Clerk’s posting of a “Summary Report” on November 17, but did not supply the date on which the results were formally certified. As a result, the court again concluded that jurisdiction had not been established and dismissed the amended petition without prejudice.

The ruling leaves open the possibility for Barberio to submit a corrected petition, provided he can supply sufficient information to show that the request meets statutory timing requirements.

The court’s order and full Statement of Reasons were issued on November 26, 2025.

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – Thursday, November 25, 2025, agenda meeting at 7:00 p.m. at the municipal building.

Click here to download the agenda.

Click here for a copy of the 2025 calendar.

Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided in accordance with the requirements of the Open Public Meetings Law by filing the notice in the Office of the Township Clerk and by posting the meeting notice on the bulletin board at the Municipal Building on December 2, 2024, where it has remained posted since that date. A legal notice appeared in the Daily Record and the Newark Star-Ledger on December 6, 2024. 

Ordinances – First Reading

Five ordinances will be introduced:

1. 2025:26 – Bond Ordinance Amendment
   Adjusts the description of improvements previously adopted in October 2025.
2. 2025:27 – 2025 Salary Ranges
   Establishes municipal salary ranges for 2025.
3. 2025:28 – Sewer Rental Fees Update
   Amends Chapter 329 to revise sewer rates.
4. 2025:29 – Water Rates Increase
   Modifies Chapter 420 to increase water service charges.
5. 2025:30 – Cannabis Code Amendment
   Updates Chapter 119 related to cannabis regulations.

All five ordinances will be scheduled for final public hearing and vote on December 16, 2025.

Non-Consent Resolutions

The following items require individual votes:

1. R2025-196 – Adoption of the 2020 Morris County Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
2. R2025-197 – Issuing a new Hotel/Motel liquor license by public sale
3. R2025-198 – Supporting Troy Hills Club, LLC in applying for a Class 5 cannabis dispensary license
4. R2025-199 – Contract for roof repairs at the Knoll Indoor Tennis Club
5. R2025-200 – Awarding a contract for the Lake Hiawatha Pump Station Upgrade
6. R2025-201 – Supporting Fresh Dispensary LLC in applying for a Class 5 cannabis license

Licenses & Permits

• No new applications were submitted.

Payroll & Bills

CFO Angelica Sabatini recommends:

• Payroll authorization for December 2, 2025: $1,650,000.00
• Bills list for December 2, 2025: $963,530.78

Mayor James Barberio
Council President Paul Carifi, Jr.
Council Vice President Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella
Councilman Matt McGrath
Councilwoman Judy Hernandez

PARSIPPANY — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) confirmed the guilty plea of a former high-ranking Morris County official, who faced charges after accepting bribes to direct public contracts to a law firm.

During an appearance on November 17, before New Jersey Superior Court Judge Peter J. Tober in Somerset County, former Morris County Freeholder John Cesaro, 53, Parsippany, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery in official and political matters (3rd degree).

Under the terms of the plea agreement, the State will seek a five-year prison sentence on January 16, 2026. The agreement calls for Cesaro’s forfeiture of $7,700 gained from the scheme, and the payment of an approximately $23,000 public corruption profiteering penalty. The defendant will also be subject to permanent disqualification from public office or employment, and face a five-year debarment from doing business with the State or any of its subdivisions.

“The public’s faith in government is shaken when elected officials trade favors or preferential treatment for illicit payments,” said Attorney General Platkin. “Government service is about serving the public, not about getting unlawful perks.”

“This guilty plea shows that public servants who abuse their positions to enrich themselves at the expense of New Jersey residents will face justice,” said Eric L. Gibson, Executive Director of OPIA.

Cesaro served as a councilman in Parsippany–Troy Hills Township from January 2006 through June 2012. He also served on the Morris County Board of Commissioners (formerly “Freeholder Board”) from 2012 until December 31, 2018.

The indictment alleges Cesaro took thousands of dollars in bribes from a cooperating witness and in return promised to use his influence on the County Freeholder Board, now known as the Board of County Commissioners, to hire or continue to retain the law firm of the cooperating witness, who is a tax attorney, for government legal work.

Under oath at his guilty plea, Cesaro admitted that, between approximately April and May 2018, in Randolph, Mountain Lakes, and Morristown, he agreed to take $7,700 in cash as consideration for agreeing to use his official elected position with the county to provide public contracts or work to the cooperating witness.

The case against Cesaro was prosecuted by Assistant Attorneys General Michael Grillo and Andrew Wellbrock of the OPIA, with DAG Adam Gerken of the OPIA Corruption Bureau, under the supervision of Bureau Director Jeffrey J. Manis and OPIA Executive Director Gibson.

Cesaro was represented by Robert Dunn, Esq., Morristown.

Ontario is known for its strong economy, top-tier education, and excellent healthcare system. Families here enjoy a high standard of living, but with that comes a unique set of challenges — from strict provincial laws and rising taxes to increasing living costs. In such an environment, having a trusted legal advisor is an essential step toward protecting your family’s well-being.

Throughout life, you’ll face moments when legal guidance makes all the difference. Having a lawyer you can rely on gives you confidence and clarity during those moments.

This article explores why every Ontario family should consider building a long-term relationship with a trusted legal advisor.

Securing Your Family’s Future

Planning ahead is one of the most important things any family can do. In Ontario, where life moves fast and financial responsibilities are high, securing your family’s future means having clear legal documents that protect your loved ones. One of the most crucial of these is a will. Many people put off writing one, thinking it’s only necessary later in life, but that’s a mistake. If you pass away without a valid will, your estate is divided according to the Succession Law Reform Act. That means your assets could be distributed according to government rules, not your wishes. This can cause unnecessary stress and conflict for your family.

A trusted legal advisor makes sure your will meets all legal requirements and reflects what you truly want. Beyond wills, your lawyer can guide you through setting up powers of attorney for property and personal care, so trusted individuals can make decisions on your behalf if needed. These steps provide peace of mind knowing your family will be cared for according to your plans, not the Ontario inheritance law.

Protecting Family Assets and Property

For many Ontario families, buying a home is one of the biggest investments they will ever make. Real estate laws are complex, and mistakes can be expensive. A legal advisor ensures every step of your property transaction is handled correctly, from reviewing purchase agreements to verifying property titles. They protect you from hidden legal risks, such as outstanding liens or unclear ownership.

If you’re selling your home, your lawyer will review offers, manage closing documents, and ensure the sale meets legal requirements. They can also assist with rental agreements, co-ownership arrangements, or disputes over boundaries or tenants. Having legal support helps you make confident decisions while avoiding complications that could affect your finances.

Handling Family Law Matters with Care

Family relationships can be complicated, and when legal issues arise, emotions often run high. Divorce, child custody, and support agreements are deeply personal and can be difficult to manage without guidance. Ontario’s family law system is designed to protect everyone’s rights, but navigating it alone can be overwhelming. A trusted lawyer brings both clarity and compassion to the process.

They help you understand your legal options, negotiate fair settlements, and ensure that decisions about your children are made in their best interests. Your lawyer can also assist with adoption, separation agreements, and prenuptial contracts, ensuring all documents are legally binding and fair.

Navigating Employment and Workplace Issues

Employment laws in Ontario protect workers, but understanding your rights can be difficult without expert advice. Whether you’re starting a new job, leaving one, or dealing with workplace issues, a legal advisor can help you make informed choices. They review employment contracts to ensure they are fair, explain your rights under provincial law, and guide you if problems arise.

If you face wrongful termination, harassment, or discrimination, your lawyer will help you pursue justice and compensation. For business owners, legal advisors help draft employee contracts, resolve disputes, and maintain compliance with labor standards.

Supporting Business and Self-Employment Goals

Many Ontario families have small businesses or side ventures that help them earn extra income. Running a business comes with legal responsibilities. From registering your business to drafting contracts and managing taxes, a legal advisor ensures everything you do complies with provincial regulations. They can help you choose the right business structure depending on your goals and risk tolerance.

Your lawyer also assists with commercial leases, supplier agreements, and intellectual property protection. These steps prevent misunderstandings and potential lawsuits that can damage your business.

Managing High Taxes and Financial Obligations

Ontario offers an excellent quality of life, but it also comes with some of the highest taxes and living costs in Canada. From property taxes and income tax to estate planning, families often find it difficult to keep track of their financial responsibilities. A trusted legal advisor can help you make sense of the rules and structure your finances in a way that reduces unnecessary burdens. They can review your tax obligations, advise on deductions you may not be aware of, and guide you on how to stay compliant with evolving laws.

Assisting with Immigration and Residency Needs

Ontario’s multicultural identity attracts people from around the world who want to build a better life for their families. However, the immigration process is often challenging. Applications for work permits, permanent residency, or citizenship involve detailed documentation and strict timelines. A legal advisor can simplify these steps and make sure everything is completed correctly.

For families already living in Ontario, a lawyer can help with renewals, sponsorships, and appeals. They ensure you understand both federal and provincial requirements so that your residency remains secure. If your family is going through transitions like marriage, business ownership, or relocation, a lawyer can update your immigration status to reflect these changes.

Preparing for Unexpected Legal Challenges

Life can change in an instant, and sometimes, legal issues appear without warning. A car accident, a property dispute, or a civil claim can place your family under sudden stress. When that happens, you don’t want to waste time searching for help. Having a trusted legal advisor means you already have someone who understands your history and can act quickly to protect your rights.

They can represent you in negotiations, handle insurance claims, or defend you in court if needed. Because they already know your background, they can respond efficiently and strategically. This readiness not only saves time but also prevents costly mistakes that come from rushed decisions.

Having a trusted legal advisor is one of the smartest investments a family in Ontario can make. It’s not about preparing for the worst — it’s about living better every day. Legal guidance allows you to act with confidence, make informed choices, and protect what you’ve worked hard to build. It gives you the freedom to focus on family, career, and the future without worrying about what could go wrong.

MORRIS COUNTY — Superior Court Judge Stuart Minkowitz has denied Parsippany Mayor James Barberio’s request for a recount, effectively upholding Democrat Pulkit Desai’s narrow victory in the November 4 general election.

Desai, a political newcomer, unseated the incumbent mayor by 80 votes, marking one of the closest and most closely watched municipal races in New Jersey this year.

In his written order, Judge Minkowitz ruled that Barberio’s legal filing did not meet the threshold requirements necessary for the court to consider a recount. The judge noted that the application failed to include the date of the election certification or the official margin of victory, both of which are required to establish whether the petition was filed within the mandatory statutory deadline.

“Even giving petitioner the benefit of all favorable inferences, petitioner fails to allege sufficient facts from which the court can determine whether the petition was filed within time conferring jurisdiction on the court,” Minkowitz wrote.

Barberio had argued that four residents may have voted twice — once by vote-by-mail and again provisionally — and sought the recount to resolve those alleged irregularities. However, without the procedural information required by New Jersey election law, the court declined to proceed.

The ruling solidifies Desai’s status as Mayor-elect and clears the path for the transition of leadership at Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Hall.