LATEST ARTICLES

Garden Savings FCU Showcases Products at Staples “Small Business Showcase”

PARSIPPANY — In a demonstration of its unwavering dedication to community involvement and member satisfaction, Garden Savings Federal Credit Union enthusiastically participated in the “Staples Small Business Showcase” hosted at the Parsippany location.

With a steadfast commitment to enhancing member experiences, Garden Savings Federal Credit Union eagerly seized the opportunity to exhibit its extensive array of financial solutions during this event on Thursday, April 25. From cutting-edge banking products to meticulously crafted lending services, the credit union proudly showcased its comprehensive offerings tailored to meet the unique requirements of local entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Moreover, Garden Savings Federal Credit Union’s active participation in the “Staples Small Business Showcase” was made possible through a strategic partnership with the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce. This collaboration further underscored the event’s significance as an exclusive opportunity for members. By leveraging this collaborative platform, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to fostering local partnerships and empowering small businesses to flourish not only in the Parsippany community but also beyond its borders.

In an additional heartwarming note, PJ Parise had the exceptional opportunity to join his mother, Stephanie, during “Take Your Child to Work Day,” further emphasizing the credit union’s dedication to family values and community involvement. Stephanie is the branch manager of the Parsippany located at 129 Littleton Road.

Garden State Federal Credit Union was founded in 1960 as The Camden District Telephone Federal Credit Union. They later changed its name to reflect the expanded membership. Today they serve over 4,400 members from 37 Member Groups and 9 select cities and towns.

Garden State Federal Credit Union currently has branches located in Parsippany, Dover, Newark, and South Orange.

For more information on “Staples Small Business Showcase” contact Frank Cahill, Executive Board Member, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, by calling (973) 559-6000.

Rose House’s Golf Fundraiser: Help Disabled Individuals

MORRIS COUNTY — Rose House, a nonprofit organization that creates forever homes for people with developmental disabilities throughout Morris County, announces its 8th annual “Day of Dreams” golf event.

The outing will be held on Monday, July 8, 2024, at the Brooklake Country Club in Florham Park. Funds raised from this year’s event will be used to purchase a van to transport Rose House’s clients with special needs to medical appointments, day programs and other places their caregivers need to take them to.

“We’ll be celebrating two special occasions at this year’s golf event,” said Rose House CEO Tom Mitchell. “Proceeds will enable us to get a new transport van at our Parsippany Group Home. This is significant because all 13 vehicles in our fleet across all six locations will have been replaced. In addition, it will commence the celebration of our organization’s 25th anniversary, which will occur less than a month after the event.”

Transport vans for special needs individuals are more costly than typical vans because they must be wheelchair accessible and include specific safety features. Rose House does not receive assistance from The State of New Jersey or Medicaid, which is why fundraisers including the golf event are essential.

The Day of Dreams event will feature a golf tournament with contests and prizes, followed by a cocktail hour and luncheon which includes a silent auction and raffles. Check-in begins at 8:00 a.m. with the tournament starting at 8:30 a.m. Registration, which includes the luncheon, is $350 per golfer or $1,400 per foursome.

Registration for golfers, sponsorships, and general donations can be made at Rose House’s official golf event by clicking here.

Those who can’t make the event but still wish to support the cause can do so by clicking here. Donors can check to see if their employers will match the donation.

Items for silent auction baskets are needed as well. Please call (973) 984-0006, x121, or email contact@therosehouse.org for more information about this event.

Rep. Sherrill Launches Community Project Funding Program 

“My office is constantly working to bring federal resources back to New Jersey to improve our quality of life and keep costs down for residents. Over the past three budgets, I am proud of the Community Project grants I’ve secured to address the most pressing issues of our district, such as mitigating flooding, upgrading aging infrastructure, combating auto thefts, workforce development, and more,” said Rep. Sherrill. “The Community Project funding program operates best when I work alongside community members to meet the needs of NJ-11 residents. I encourage local leaders to utilize our resource guide and submit a proposal for consideration.”

This year, each Member of Congress can submit up to fifteen requests to the House Appropriations Committee. Congressman Sherrill will fight hard for these projects but there is no guarantee that submissions will be included in the final Appropriations bill. These requests are all subject to review by the House Appropriations Committee and the Congressional budget process. To take effect, appropriations bills approved by the House Appropriations Committee must be agreed to by both houses of Congress and signed into law by the President.

If you have a Community Project proposal for the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations process or have questions about the selection process, please review our Community Project Funding Resource Guide. You can also call the Congresswoman’s District Office at (973) 526-5668.

To submit a Community Project request, please visit our website. Representative Sherrill and her team will carefully consider and evaluate each request. Please note the window to submit project proposals is shorter this year and the types of projects allowed have changed as a result of new restrictions put in place by House Republican leadership.  

The deadline to submit an application is May 1, 2024 at 9:00 a.m.

This extremely tight deadline is driven by the guidelines of the Appropriations Committee just released yesterday and do not allow for flexibility. Submissions after the deadline will most likely not be able to be considered.       

MORRIS COUNTY — Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) announced the launch of her resource guide and Community Project Funding application portal for the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations process.  

“My office is constantly working to bring federal resources back to New Jersey to improve our quality of life and keep costs down for residents. Over the past three budgets, I am proud of the Community Project grants I’ve secured to address the most pressing issues of our district, such as mitigating flooding, upgrading aging infrastructure, combating auto thefts, workforce development, and more,” said Rep. Sherrill. “The Community Project funding program operates best when I work alongside community members to meet the needs of NJ-11 residents. I encourage local leaders to utilize our resource guide and submit a proposal for consideration.”

This year, each Member of Congress can submit up to fifteen requests to the House Appropriations Committee. Congressman Sherrill will fight hard for these projects but there is no guarantee that submissions will be included in the final Appropriations bill. These requests are all subject to review by the House Appropriations Committee and the Congressional budget process. To take effect, appropriations bills approved by the House Appropriations Committee must be agreed to by both houses of Congress and signed into law by the President.

If you have a Community Project proposal for the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations process or have questions about the selection process, please review our Community Project Funding Resource Guide. You can also call the Congresswoman’s District Office at (973) 526-5668.

To submit a Community Project request, please visit our website. Representative Sherrill and her team will carefully consider and evaluate each request. Please note the window to submit project proposals is shorter this year and the types of projects allowed have changed as a result of new restrictions put in place by House Republican leadership.  

The deadline to submit an application is May 1, 2024 at 9:00 a.m.

This extremely tight deadline is driven by the guidelines of the Appropriations Committee just released yesterday and do not allow for flexibility. Submissions after the deadline will most likely not be able to be considered.       

Sons of Italy Expands Its Presence in Morris County

MORRIS COUNTY — Sons of Italy -Lodge 2561 continues to expand its presence in Morris County, where it is well known for its charitable endeavors. At the organization’s April General Membership meeting on April 24th, they were proud to swear in an additional nine new members.

This was in addition to the 11 new members who were sworn in at the previous month’s meeting.  The well-attended meeting, with 65 members and guests in attendance, was conducted at Forte Pizzeria & Ristorante in Randolph. Lodge 2561 is now the third largest Lodge in the State of New Jersey and continues to grow in numbers regularly.

The Oath of Office for new members was conducted by Lodge President Joe Jannarone Jr., 1st V.P. Harry Mangiri, 2nd V.P. Mike Fazzio, Orator Phil Parziale, and Immediate Past Lodge President Bob Adamo. Each new member was presented with a membership packet, which included among other items an Official Certificate of Membership and Organization Lapel Pin.

New members included: Thomas Trapasso, Giancarlo Colosuanno, Richard Courtney, Louis Cuomo, Jeffrey Odee, Matt Fendler, Dan Cassidy, James Messina, and Ken Borruso.

The Sons of Italy is one of America’s largest and longest-standing Italian American organizations.

The Morris County Lodge – 2561 was founded as a non-profit organization that contributes thousands of dollars to worthwhile local charities and families. 100% of what the Lodge raises in various events goes directly back to local charities, including but not limited to the Parsippany Food Pantry, High School Scholarships, the Valerie Fund, The Shelter for Battered Women, Alzheimer’s, and many more.

Explore upcoming events hosted by the Sons of Italy at www.soi2561.org or on Facebook.

Morris County Small Business Week 2024 Celebrates Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Economic Development Alliance (Alliance) and Morris County Economic Development Corporation are proud to announce the lineup of events planned for the 2024 Morris County Small Business Week, which will be observed from April 29 through May 3.

“Small Business Week in Morris County celebrates the heartbeat of our community – the businesses lining our town’s Main Streets as well as the innovative startups driving the future industry. Their vibrant entrepreneurial spirit fuels a local economy that is essential to the sustained prosperity and growth of our region,” said Commissioner Director Christine Myers.

The events will coincide with National Small Business Week, which has been a cornerstone celebration of America’s entrepreneurial spirit for over six decades, honoring the dedication and economic impact of small businesses.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our community, and Morris County Small Business Week is a testament to their resilience and innovation. We are excited to recognize their contributions and provide valuable resources to support their growth,” said Craig Schlosser, President & CEO of the Alliance.

The week’s agenda boasts a diverse array of in-person events, each designed to empower entrepreneurs and small business owners with knowledge and networking opportunities:

These complimentary events offer attendees a chance to gain insights into various aspects of business management, marketing strategies, funding opportunities, and essential resources available to small businesses in Morris County.

“Small Business Week is a great opportunity to highlight how our businesses are truly the economic engine driving progress and the quality of life in New Jersey,” stated Kelly Brozyna, State Director & Chief Executive Officer, New Jersey Small Business Development Centers. 

Small Business Week is an invaluable opportunity for entrepreneurs and small business owners to connect, learn, and grow. Join us in celebrating their achievements and empowering their success. For more information and to register for events, visit Morris County Economic Development Alliance by clicking here.

Morris County Small Business Week is sponsored by First Bank and Morristown Airport (MMU). The Program is Presented in Partnership with the Morris County Economic Development Alliance, an affiliated 501c3 nonprofit organization of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce, Morris County Economic Development Corporation, a division of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce, New Jersey Small Business Development Center at Fairleigh Dickinson University, United States Small Business Administration, Madison Area Chamber of Commerce, Chatham Area Chamber of Commerce, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, Roxbury Area Chamber of Commerce, and Start-Up Move Up Morris.

Commemorating Success: Eagle Scout Recognition for Two Exceptional Youths

PARSIPPANY — Tyler Geddes and Eashan Iyer were bestowed with the prestigious rank of Eagle during the Parsippany BSA Troop 173’s ceremony held on Sunday, April 13. The event was held at the Puddingstone Community Clubhouse.

The Eagle Scout rank holds immense significance within the Scouting movement, representing the highest achievement in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) program. It symbolizes honor and responsibility of the utmost degree.

The statistic highlighting that only 5% of Scouts attain the Eagle rank underscores the demanding criteria necessary to reach this pinnacle. To ascend to Eagle Scout status, a Scout must exhibit leadership prowess, accumulate a requisite number of merit badges spanning diverse interests, undertake a substantial community service project, and embody Scouting’s core principles and values.

Upon achieving Eagle rank, a Scout retains this distinction for life, irrespective of age or continued involvement in Scouting. This enduring designation serves as a testament to the exemplary character, unwavering dedication, and exemplary leadership qualities demonstrated by Eagle Scouts.

Eashan Iyer, Mayor James Barberio and Tyler Geddes

Eagle Scouts are encouraged to serve as paragons and mentors both within Scouting and their broader communities. As you rightly noted, many Eagle Scouts excel in various fields such as the military, academia, professions, clergy, business, and politics. The values and skills imbibed through the Scouting program often contribute significantly to their accomplishments in these spheres.

It’s important to recognize that while Eagle Scouts have achieved remarkable feats, not all follow identical paths. Some may discover success and leadership in alternative realms or industries, yet the principles and values instilled during their Eagle Scout journey continue to exert a positive influence on their lives.

Tyler Geddes

Tyler Geddes began his Scouting experience with Parsippany Cub Scout Pack 5 under the leadership of Mr. Ed Sheiffle. He was enthusiastic to join based on his brothers Alex and Ethan’s experience in Cub Scouts and his participation in their Pack meetings. Tyler completed all his achievements in Cub Scouts and earned the highest achievement in Cub Scouts, the Arrow of Light. During the Pack 5 Blue and Gold dinner in March 2017, he crossed over into Scout Troop 173.

Throughout Tyler’s time in Boy Scouts, he earned all the requirements to achieve all six Boy Scouts of America (BSA) ranks, including the highest rank of Eagle Scout. While progressing through the ranks, he took on the roles of instructor, patrol leader in Troop 173, and den chief in Pack 5. As a den chief, Tyler assisted Wolf Scouts as they ranked up into Bear Scouts over two years.  As an instructor for Troop 173, Tyler taught and demonstrated new skills for incoming Boy Scouts. He valued the time in the patrol leader position as the most informative as he improved his leadership skills in guiding his patrol. His most important responsibility was to guide, lead, and ensure his patrol was prepared for each meeting and camping trip. Tyler is grateful to his Scoutmasters, Mr. Les Wu, Mr. Michael Catapano, Mr. David Franz, and Mr. Paul Lomelo, for the skills he learned along the way.

Eashan Iyer and Tyler Geddes with Mayor James Barberio

One of Tyler’s favorite memories in Troop 173 was during summer camp at Winnebago Scout Camp. While there, he enjoyed the fun aquatic activities and completed numerous merit badges. He also organized and participated in skits each night around the fire for his Communication merit badge. During the winter, Tyler enjoyed the Klondike camping trips where, as part of the senior sled team, they won 1st place.

Tyler achieved the rank of Eagle in October of 2023. Furthermore, Tyler earned 26 merit badges and the National Outdoor Award for Camping and completed 182 service hours assisting the troop and the community.

Tyler’s proudest accomplishment in Scouting was his Eagle project, where he assisted the Morris County Park Commission by building and installing four park benches at Tourne County Park in Denville. After getting his proposal approved, Tyler raised $600 for the materials he would need and led volunteers, including fellow Scouts, in constructing and installing the benches at four separate locations within the park. The new benches create a more comfortable park for visitors who come to bike, picnic, hike, etc. Bruce Benson, Tyler’s Eagle coach, was vital throughout the project as he shared his knowledge and understanding.

Tyler attends Morris Catholic High School in Denville and is on the varsity team in both winter and spring track. He participates in numerous honor societies, including the English Honor Society, the History Honor Society, and the National Honor Society. Tyler plans to
attend Rowan University in the Fall of 2024 to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Former Council President Michael dePierro

Tyler earned 26 merit badges: Archery, Environmental Science, Art, Family Life,* Basketry, Fingerprinting, Camping,* First Aid, Canoeing, Communication, Forestry, Citizenship in the Community, Kayaking, Citizenship in the Nation, Metalwork, Citizenship in Society, Music, Citizenship in the World, Personal Fitness, Communication, Cooking,* Collections, Personal Management, Communication, Space Exploration, Swimming,* Emergency Preparedness,* and Wood Carving. (*Denotes Eagle Required)

Eashan Iyer

Eashan began his Scouting career as a Tiger Cub in Pack 142. As a budding scientist, he loved engineering his Pinewood Derby car to perfection. He earned his Arrow of Light and joined Troop 173 in March 2017.

As Eashan advanced in Scouting, he took on leadership roles through being an instructor and a patrol leader. Eashan is grateful for the help of past Scoutmasters Mr. Wu, Mr. Catapano, Mr. Franz, and present Scoutmaster Mr. Lomelo.

Eashan fondly remembers his time in Scouting. His favorites are playing sharks and minnows and basketball at meetings. He also has fond memories of playing manhunt at campouts. During a campout, he built a circuit that powered an LED and recalls this as an inspiring experience. Eashan also enjoyed the many annual Turkey in a Can Campouts.

As a member of Troop 173, Eashan contributed to his community by collecting food donations at St. Christopher’s Church and participating in the annual Scouting for Food drive. He has a total of 225 service hours. He has also earned the National Outdoor Award for Camping and has camped for a total of 25 nights, including at Camp Winnebago.

Growing up near the unique neighborhood of Mount Tabor, Eashan was within a few miles of streets lined with ornate Victorian homes, octagonal structures, and gathering spaces with stories to tell at every corner. He saw the opportunity to bridge the gap between modern technology and the neighborhood’s historical treasures and approached the Mount Tabor Historical Society with his idea. He put together a diverse team with volunteers from Mount Tabor, his high school, his Scout troop, and others to create webpages and install
physical signs. Eashan wholeheartedly thanks Mr. Matthew Enslow for his assistance in sign production, Mr. Bruce Benson for his valuable mentorship as an Eagle project coach, and Mrs. Michelle Munn for her support on behalf of the Mount Tabor Historical Society, and
donors for their valuable monetary support. His perseverance paid off as the self-guided tour was unveiled to the community in a decidedly old-school ribbon-cutting ceremony—a gathering of the community and elected officials. It was a moment of pride for the entire neighborhood.

Eashan is currently a senior at the Academy for Mathematics, Science, and Engineering. At school, he is a member of the golf team and co-president of the physics club. Outside of school, he is involved in scientific research and has co-authored a paper with Dr. Christian
Ferko in theoretical high-energy physics titled “Quantization of the ModMax Oscillator.” He also is an intern with Pfizer’s smart factory team under Digital Manufacturing and Global Services, developing and testing virtual reality simulations that will be used to cost-effectively train shop floor workers. Eashan loves to ski with his family and the school ski club. Eashan is passionate about origami; he is doing an independent study in the mathematics of origami in school. He delivered a lecture about golden venture folding at MIT in November 2023. He will be attending Brown University in the fall of 2024 to pursue undergraduate studies in physics.

You can learn more about Eashan through his website by clicking here.

Eashan Iyer with Mount Tabor Historical Society President Michelle LaConto Munn outside the gated entrance of the historic Mount Tabor Neighborhood in Parsippany. Eashan is holding one of the signs placed throughout Mount Tabor.

Eashan earned 22 merit badges: American Cultures, Environmental Science,* Art Family Life,* Camping,* Fingerprinting, Chess, First Aid,* Citizenship in the Community,* Game Design, Citizenship in the Nation,* Hiking,* Citizenship in the World,* Music, Citizenship in Society,* Personal Fitness,* Communication,* Personal Management,* Cooking,* Programming, Emergency Preparedness,* and Scholarship. (*Denotes Eagle Required.)

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine – May 2024. Click here to read the magazine.

Vehicle Flips on Route 202 in Parsippany, Driver Suffers Minor Injuries

PARSIPPANY — On Tuesday, April 23 at 6:52 a.m. Mr. Bernard Kapuscinski, 56, was traveling west on Route 202 (Littleton Road) when his vehicle struck the curb on the passenger side, causing Mr. Kapuscinski to lose control of his vehicle, a 2013 Honda Pilot.

The 2013 Honda Pilo then ran off the roadway hitting the utility pole on the right side of the road which caused his vehicle to flip over and land on its roof.

Mr. Kapuscinski was removed from the vehicle with minor lacerations and back pain.
Powder Mill Towing removed the vehicle from the scene.

Mr. Kapuscinski was transported by Parsippany Emergency Medical Services to Morristown Medical Center. 

Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Elvin Giordano investigated the accident. At the time of this article, there were no summons issued.

Parsippany Welcomes Chick-fil-A® with Open Arms on May 2

PARSIPPANY — A new Chick-fil-A® restaurant will begin serving the Parsippany community on Thursday, May 2. Chick-fil-A, Inc. has selected Charlie Atie as the independent franchised local Owner-Operator of Chick-fil-A Parsippany.

Located at 1180 US Highway 46 West, Chick-fil-A Parsippany will be open for pick-up, dine-in, drive-thru, and carry-out from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and drive-thru until 10:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

The Parsippany restaurant joins more than 70 other Chick-fil-A restaurants serving the wider New York City market.

Locally Owned and Operated
Chick-fil-A’s franchise model is essential to how the restaurant serves others. Most Chick-fil-A restaurants are owned and operated by a single individual, which means Chick-fil-A’s local Owner-Operators are small business owners, not passive investors, who work in their restaurants side by side with their Team Members each day.

In Parsippany, Atie will be responsible for all day-to-day activities of the business, including employing approximately 115 full- and part-time Team Members, serving Guests, cultivating relationships with local organizations and businesses, and tailoring philanthropic efforts to meet the Parsippany community’s needs.

A former law enforcement executive with over 29 years of service, Atie has a genuine passion for making a difference and a positive impact in communities, which ultimately led him to pursue an opportunity to become a Chick-fil-A local Owner-Operator. While embarking on the journey, he volunteered at Chick-fil-A Ramsey in New Jersey and spent time working at numerous locations throughout New York and New Jersey, where he gained practical, first-hand insights and experience prior to being selected as the Owner-Operator of Chick-fil-A Parsippany.

Chick-fil-A is located at 1180 US Highway 46, Chick-fil-A Parsippany

Atie’s restaurant will be a true family business, with several family members planning to work in various positions. A proud New Jersey resident for over four decades, Atie also looks forward to engraining himself in the Parsippany community, whether it’s by supporting local sports teams, hosting community events, creating initiatives to bring people together, or simply providing a space where Guests can experience an environment of care and fellowship.

“Chick-fil-A serves not only food, but it is also a place of community and belonging,” Atie said. “Great food brings people together, and I look forward to providing a space where our Guests can foster meaningful connections. Chick-fil-A Parsippany will be an integral part of my family, and I look forward to welcoming our Team Members, Guests, and the Parsippany community as one of our own. This isn’t just my restaurant – it belongs to the community as well.”

Caring for the Parsippany Community
The Chick-fil-A business is built to add positive impact beyond profit, including giving back to local communities. Chick-fil-A local Owner-Operators are empowered to support the neighborhoods they serve with a key focus on hunger, education, and specific community needs.

In celebration of the opening, Chick-fil-A, Inc. has donated $25,000 to Feeding America to support local hunger relief efforts of Community FoodBank of New Jersey, a Feeding America partner food bank, in honor of the new restaurant.

Atie’s restaurant will plan to participate in the Chick-fil-A Shared Table® program, an initiative that redirects surplus food from the restaurant to local soup kitchens, shelters, food banks, and nonprofits in need. To date, more than 25 million meals have been created from Chick-fil-A Shared Table donations from over 2,000 Chick-fil-A restaurants throughout the U.S. and Canada.

In addition, Chick-fil-A Parsippany is recognizing 100 local heroes making an impact in the Parsippany area by providing them with free Chick-fil-A entrées for a year.

Team Member Investment
Chick-fil-A local Owner-Operators strive to hire, develop, and retain top talent, helping future leaders optimize their skills and providing pathways for personal and professional development in a welcoming, purpose-driven environment. A career at Chick-fil-A offers a wide range of benefits, including hands-on training and mentoring, competitive pay and benefits, the chance to apply for scholarships to support continued education, and the flexibility to thrive in and outside of work. Chick-fil-A’s local Owner-Operators are committed to preparing their team for the future, wherever it may lead. To learn more about careers at Chick-fil-A, click here.

Delicious Food; Outstanding Customer Service
Chick-fil-A is known for creating a welcoming, remarkable restaurant experience, starting with friendly service, a warm welcome, and quality food, including the original Chick-fil-A® Chicken Sandwich. Made with a real, whole, boneless breast of chicken with no added fillers, the breaded chicken is pressure-cooked in fully refined peanut oil. To complement the great-tasting chicken, fresh produce is delivered to Chick-fil-A restaurants up to six times a week for the best quality and flavor.

Guests of Chick-fil-A Parsippany can place an order for pickup, dine-in, drive-thru, and carryout on the Chick-fil-A® App or online. When joining the Chick-fil-A One® tiered membership program, Chick-fil-A One members receive points on every qualifying purchase which can be used to redeem available rewards. To view delivery options in the area, click here.

For the latest news and updates on Chick-fil-A Parsippany, visit the local restaurant’s Facebook page and follow along on Instagram. For more information about Chick-fil-A and stories about the Brand’s food, people and customers across the country click here.

Chick-fil-A Parsippany officially opens on Thursday, May 2

Mayor Barberio’s Fundraiser Showcases Strong Community Support

PARSIPPANY — On Thursday, April 18th, Parsippany Mayor James Barberio held his spring fundraiser. Enthusiasm for the Mayor was sky-high at the packed event, with over 200 people in attendance. Mayor Barberio stated, “I’m grateful to all those contributing to continued good government in Parsippany.  I’m particularly heartened by the cross-section of people in attendance, including legislative and County leaders, Parsippany Council members, and Parsippany voters. “

Attendees included Assemblyman Jay Weber; County Commissioners Tom Mastrangelo, Doug Cabana, Steve Shaw, and Tyfun Selen; County Clerk and Parsippany resident Ann Grossi; Sheriff James Gannon; Council members Paul Carifi, Frank Neglia, and Matt McGrath; former Council members Mike dePierro and Loretta Grangani and Former Board of Education Member Matt DeVitto.   

Patrick Minutillo and Council Vice President Frank Neglia
At the Spring Fundraiser, Mayor James Barberio and Hanover Township Mayor Ace Gallagher.

Also attending were many area Mayors including Hanover Township Mayor Ace Gallagher, Mt. Arlington Mayor Mike Stanzilis, Rockaway Borough Mayor Tom Mulligan, Wharton Mayor Bill Chegwidden, and Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor.   

Wharton Mayor Bill Chegwidden, Morris County Commissioner Stephen Shaw and Paul DeGroot.

Mayor Chegwidden, who also serves as the President of the State League of Municipalities stated, “Mayor Barberio is doing an excellent job in Parsippany and his residents are fortunate to have him at the helm. Based on my experience as the League President, I can tell you that Mayor Barberio is one of the very best Mayors in all of New Jersey.” Hanover Township Mayor Ace Gallagher stated, “Mayor Barberio is not afraid to speak his mind and do what he knows is right in his heart for Parsippany. I respect and admire that quality”.  

Hundreds of township residents were there to support the Mayor. Billy Reilly, a 66-year resident stated ” I’m supporting Mayor Barberio because he has the experience to know what to do and the guts and tenacity to do it. Our town made a mistake by electing a Mayor with no experience in 2018 – and we paid for it. Mayor Barberio knows how to tackle the issues to make Parsippany a better place for us all.”   

Mayor Barberio touted some of his accomplishments which include getting the budget under control. The Mayor stated, “I told the residents that we didn’t have a magic bullet to fix the mistakes of the past, but that given the chance, I would correct those mistakes and put us back on a path of sound fiscal footing.  Suffice it to say, we are on track.” Mayor Barberio thanked all who attended and vowed to continue to fight for Parsippany residents. The Mayor added we are controlling costs, increasing revenue, and enhancing services like never before. I have never been so excited to be Parsippany’s Mayor and deliver real results for our residents.  Together, let’s keep the pride in Parsippany growing.”  

Township Employee Ashley, Tayfun, Ann Marie Ferrara and Stacey Ward
Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi and Mt. Arlington Mayor Mike Stanzilis.
Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Michael dePierro, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., Valerie Dolan, CPA, RMA, PSA, Partner at Nisivoccia and Delores dePierro.

Parsippany Schools Earn Distinction for Music Education

PARSIPPANY — For the sixth consecutive year, the Parsippany-Troy Hills School District has been nationally recognized for its exceptional music program.

Acknowledged with the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation by The NAMM Foundation, this honor reflects the collaborative efforts of teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders in integrating music education into a comprehensive educational experience.

Supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation, The NAMM Foundation is a non-profit organization that awards this designation to districts and schools demonstrating remarkable dedication and accessibility to music education.

Districts were chosen for this honor because they demonstrate outstanding achievement in their efforts to provide music access and education to all students.

Parsippany stands among the 975 districts nationwide honored for its exemplary music education programs. The district proudly shared news of this achievement in an April Facebook post, congratulating “our dedicated students, teachers, administrators, and community members.”

The NAMM Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants and its more than 10,000 members around the world, sponsored the survey.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine – May 2024. Click here to read the magazine.