Current mens clothes, among other items, going for sale.
PARSIPPANY — 2nd Hand Rose Thrift, a local thrift store under the direction of St. Christopher Catholic Church at 1050 Littleton Road, is officially closing its doors by Tuesday, July 1.
Interior of 2nd Hand Rose Thrift
The quaint store, run by owner Pat Taylor and her team of two volunteers for the past 14 years, sells a wide range of goods, many of which are vintage and have deep roots in the Morris County community.
The items, which include a range of men’s, women’s, & children’s clothing, small appliances, cassettes, CDs, books, jewelry, kitchenware, and select fixings, are all currently available at a reduced price for the store’s clearance sale.
The prices are at an all-time low, as indicated by multicolored stickers throughout the store. Many items are sold for under $5, with the biggest bargains selling for just $2.
The store will be open on Mondays and Fridays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Everything must go, and the 2nd Hand Rose Thrift staff hopes to see you there!
Disturbed by many of the comments, especially Barberio blaming the past administration (aka Mayor-Soriano) for things he was not responsible for, such as the COVID pandemic, for starters. Also, major water infrastructure collapsed during this time, and wells went dry. When Mayor Soriano attempted to instill a minor tax increase of $4.36 to remedy the costs, he was turned down by the Republican majority council, and badged by Barberio with his “hang on to your wallets”. When Barberio was re-elected, he raised taxes and water/sewer fees. His previous use of the water/sewer surplus for tax patches meant insufficient funds to pay for the water infrastructure failures.
This sudden change of mind showed how arbitrary, capricious, contradictory, and hypocritical political figures have become, which says much. Barberio says now, “No matter who the mayor is,” he means as long as I am the mayor.
His allegation that he built the Police backup is also misleading. During COVID, police recruitment and training were canceled or postponed due to lockdowns and social distancing measures. Police academies closed. I would add that his contentions about crime going down are also false. Parsippany never really had a crime problem, except for random incidents, and crime, in itself a social disease, can change at any time. Poverty itself is the father of crime, and most crime that affects us all is corporate crime.
Barberio’s double talk concerning “over-development” is not over-development, but redevelopment is double talk. You can’t redevelop unless it’s already developed. So now we see how over-dependence on corporate tax rate tables has finally caught up to Parsippany. These corporate properties, now idle, have led Parsippany to become an outlier and be subjected to the affordable housing fiasco. Be reminded it was Chris Christie a republican who was responsible for developers remedy, and not keeping Mount Laurel on a State level, but given over to a local problem, which favored the private sector or real estate barons, which have used affordable housing for a fear tactic, to impose their power over a community.
Parsippany, under Inglesino and Barberio, became subject to this tactic. This allowed several remaining sensitive landscapes to be unnecessarily lost to other unwanted and improper developments; the Waterview rezone betrayal stands out and sticks in the craw.
How does going from a rateable chase to 30-year PILOTs make any sense, especially for warehouses? This is another Inglesino deal that smells of political quid pro quo in campaign finance. The warehouse without a PILOT, Lanidex Plaza, is being allowed in an inappropriate location outside the guidelines for warehouse placement, another Inglesino deal using affordable housing as a fear tactic.
Barberio’s remarks on Parsippany’s Highlands Conformance, under the “Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act”, which John Inglesino stopped, saying how Parsippany has good relations, are ironic. Parsippany should have been in Conformance in 2010, during Barberio’s first term, but Inglesino stopped it, all based on falsehoods. In 2014, he took Parsippany completely out of the process.
Highlands enforces and betters a municipal Master Plan. What good is your master plan when corporate developers threaten to sue, and the town throws in the towel?
Musella needs to learn more about the benefits of Highlands Conformance. It is a shameful past that many council members performed no due diligence in educating themselves about its purpose and benefits. It was Mayor Soriano who finally brought Parsippany into Highlands, of which he was given no credit, and rid us of John Inglesino until he reappeared under Barberio again.
Let’s be honest: When Barberio was mayor, John Inglesino was, in fact, in charge. The Waterview no-rezone betrayal and other shady deals that cost taxpayers should never have occurred or been forgotten.
Cori Herbig and Betty Wyka spoke at the public session about the situation that, since Barberio’s re-election, the Pride Flag has not been displayed at Town Hall in June, as before. The vote was given to the Council.
Is it not the Mayor’s decision alone? We often hear our Mayor proclaiming his executive power, for example, in the present BOE, audit, and 30-year PILOT deal compromise for whatever monies are due taxpayers from billionaire-developers. (So continuing to tax senior citizens, on set incomes with no children in school, will take us the slack)
In a mayor-council government in New Jersey, the mayor is typically responsible for the flags displayed at Town Hall. The mayor is the chief executive and is responsible for administering the city’s activities, which include enforcing ordinances and laws passed by the council. While the council has legislative power, the mayor’s role as the chief executive generally oversees the municipality’s day-to-day operations, including the display of flags.
Did not the Mayor raise the Ukrainian Flag in 2022 in a special ceremony? (Other flags like Earth or Ecology are not even contemplated)
“Thereby the grace of God go I,” or you is no longer a given. “So DEI is taboo in Parsippany?
Running a business comes with daily challenges, but one thing that often slips through the cracks is comparing electricity rates. Many companies are unknowingly overpaying, even when cost-saving options are available. A proper business energy comparison can uncover lower rates and hidden contract issues that may be quietly draining your budget. Energy bills comprise a large part of operational costs, so it’s essential to examine every line on your bill and understand where you might be paying too much. In this guide, we’ll explore why businesses often overspend and how to take simple steps that could lead to serious savings.
Are You Paying More Than You Should for Business Electricity?
One of the biggest reasons businesses overpay for electricity is staying on the same contract for too long. Many companies stick with their current energy suppliers even after their fixed deal ends. This often moves them onto a standard variable tariff, which usually comes with higher prices. According to UK energy market data, switching to a cheaper fixed tariff could reduce bills by up to 25%, depending on your usage and region. And yet, most small businesses don’t switch in time, often missing their renewal window and falling into auto-rollover rates.
Another hidden factor is outdated usage habits. Without regular energy audits, it’s hard to see how much electricity is wasted during non-peak hours. Leaving machines on standby, inefficient lighting, or poor insulation in the business premises can cause unnecessary spending. A basic business energy audit can highlight areas for improvement and help identify energy-saving opportunities. Even small changes, like installing motion sensor lights or upgrading appliances, could bring measurable results in monthly bill payments.
The High Cost of Sticking to the Same Supplier
Staying with your old supplier out of habit can be expensive. Some suppliers rely on customer inaction, knowing many businesses won’t review their contracts regularly. Without comparison, companies won’t see the list of available energy deals or understand how much they could save with a new supplier. One report found that businesses that perform a yearly energy comparison save up to £1,200 annually.
Importance of Reviewing Electricity Tariffs
Many types of electricity tariffs exist, such as fixed, dual fuel, prepayment, etc. Each comes with different pricing models, contract lengths, and exit fees. Understanding these details matters because choosing the wrong tariff for your usage habits can lead to higher energy bills. A fixed energy deal may provide price certainty and help you budget more accurately, especially during energy price hikes.
Smart Meters Are a Must
A smart meter is more than just a fancy device. It provides real-time data about your energy use, helping you make better decisions. These meters also take automatic meter readings, which means no more estimated bills or disputes. Businesses using smart meters have seen up to a 15% drop in electricity usage because they could finally track and adjust their habits in real-time.
Comparing Energy Prices Can Save You Thousands
Running a business energy comparison should be part of your yearly routine. Doing this helps you compare energy deals side by side, making it easy to find the most suitable tariff based on your size, industry, and annual usage. The energy market changes quickly, and prices often rise due to wholesale costs, environmental charges, and political changes. Keeping an eye on these changes allows you to switch soon.
Example: A bakery using 35,000 kWh yearly cut its electricity costs from £6,300 to £4,850 after comparing and switching to a new electricity supplier.
Understand Peak Hours and Standing Charges
Electricity used during peak hours tends to be more expensive, so it’s helpful to understand your usage pattern. Some suppliers offer time-of-use tariffs that charge different rates depending on when you use energy. Also, don’t ignore standing charges, which are fixed daily fees just for being connected to the grid. These can vary depending on the supplier switching and significantly impact small business users’ electricity bills.
Pay Attention to Contract Details
Every business should read the small print of their energy contract. Is there a legal requirement for notice? Are there exit fees? What happens at the end of your contract—do you automatically roll into a standard variable tariff? These questions are essential. Also, many businesses don’t realise that if they don’t switch suppliers on time, they may not be eligible for the final bill refund if they’ve overpaid.
If you haven’t done a business energy audit this year, now’s the time. This process identifies wasteful practices and areas of cost savings. A professional audit often includes checking for energy waste, reviewing energy usage history, and finding potential savings with modern systems. It’s also the first step to meet energy efficiency goals and apply for some government rebates or incentives.
Hidden Opportunities to Save on Energy Bills
Here are a few often-overlooked strategies to save energy and money:
Switch to energy-efficient LED lighting across all business premises
Install a smart meter to track your exact usage
Adjust work hours to reduce use during peak hours
Encourage staff to power down non-essential equipment
Request a business energy quote from multiple suppliers to compare options
Ask your electricity supplier about discounted dual-fuel packages
Average Business Electricity Costs by Size (2024 UK Stats)
Most businesses can lower their energy bills by simply checking what they’re paying and comparing options. Contracts change, prices shift, and usage habits evolve, so conducting a regular business energy comparison could be the easiest step toward long-term savings.
FAQs
How often should I compare electricity deals for my business?
Every 6 to 12 months is ideal. Frequent comparisons help you avoid automatic rollovers into costly variable tariffs and find better energy rates from suppliers.
What if my landlord pays the business electricity bill?
You can still ask for access to the energy data or recommend a business energy audit to improve efficiency. Some landlords are open to switching if it lowers everyone’s bills.
I just listened to the Parsippany mayoral debate between Mayor Barberio and Councilman Justin Musella via Zoom, which was hosted by the Morris League of Women Voters.
Mayor Barberio’s persistent use of the phrase “I’m gonna” when asked about how he would resolve many of Parsippany’s long-standing financial, safety, and quality-of-life challenges spoke volumes.
Perhaps as Parsippany’s Mayor for the past four years, Mayor Barberio “shoulda have” used his office to meet those challenges. Parsippany cannot afford another four years of a “gonna” Mayor, so it’s well past time for Mayor Barberio to be going, going gone.
In the upcoming Republican Primary, Incumbent Mayor James Barberio faced off with Councilman Justin Musella in what was a closely watched race.
PARSIPPANY — The League of Women Voters of the Morris Area, in partnership with the Daily Record and the Morristown Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., hosted a virtual Republican mayoral debate on May 15, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. This event featured incumbent Mayor James Barberio and Councilman Justin Musella, who are contending for the Republican nomination for Mayor of Parsippany-Troy Hills.
The debate provided a platform for both candidates to present their visions for the township’s future, addressing key issues such as development, taxation, and governance. Mayor Barberio emphasized his experience and the economic growth achieved during his tenure, while Councilman Musella advocated for increased transparency and community engagement.
This forum is part of the League’s ongoing efforts to promote informed and active participation in government. It offers voters the opportunity to hear directly from the candidates ahead of the June 10 primary election.
File photo from a previous Rainbow Lakes Memorial Day Parade. Residents are once again invited to line the streets on Saturday, May 24, for this year’s annual celebration honoring our nation’s heroes.
PARSIPPANY — Residents of Rainbow Lakes and the greater Parsippany area are invited to gather in remembrance and celebration at this year’s Annual Rainbow Lakes Memorial Day Events, set to take place on Saturday, May 24.
The day’s observances will begin at 10:30 a.m. with the Rainbow Lakes Memorial Day Parade, a beloved tradition that features local marchers and a lineup of emergency responder vehicles. The parade will begin at the Rainbow Trail firehouse, proceed past the beach, and continue along Upper Rainbow to Highwood.
Following the parade, Memorial Day Ceremonies will take place at the ballfield at 11:00 a.m., offering the community a moment to honor and reflect on the sacrifices made by military service members.
The morning’s formal events will be followed by an afternoon of food and fun at the Fire Company Open House, beginning at 12:00 p.m. (noon). Guests can enjoy hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream, beer, and soda, all served at the firehouse.
This annual celebration is sponsored by the Veterans of Rainbow Lakes and the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company, continuing a legacy of community engagement, patriotism, and neighborly spirit in Parsippany.
For many residents, the event marks the unofficial start of summer and a meaningful opportunity to gather in remembrance and unity as a community.
I used to support Mayor Barberio. Keywords: “used to be.” In the past, he seemed to be a mayor with Parsippany’s best interests at heart, but that is not the case today. Today, Mayor Barberio is only concerned with the well-being of labor unions, multi-million-dollar developers, and their self-serving attorneys. I no longer feel comfortable or confident in his ability to run this town, so I am now supporting Justin Musella and his bid for mayor.
However, my choice and decision to vote for Mr. Musella have been questioned by Mayor Barberio and his running mates. On three separate occasions, Mayor Barberio himself or one of his running mates has come to my door demanding why I am no longer a supporter. They have questioned my decision and bombarded me with lies about Mr. Musella. My family and I have been repeatedly harassed and bullied on our doorstep for our decision. One time was bad enough, but three times is simply unacceptable and has become somewhat disturbing.
If Mayor Barberio thinks bullying old supporters is a way to win them back, he is sadly mistaken. A democracy is based on the freedom to choose the candidate you think will be best to govern. Unfortunately, his past transgressions and intimidation tactics have proven why he is unworthy of being Parsippany’s next mayor.
Name Withheld Due to concerns of Retaliation
Editor’s Note: On rare occasions, we publish letters to the editor with names withheld, due to concerns of retaliation. The publisher has verified the author and is, in fact, a Parsippany resident.
PARSIPPANY — Abigail Bresalier, a senior at Muhlenberg College and graduate of Parsippany High School, was among a select group of students who presented collaborative research during the 2025 Dana Forum at the Allentown, Pennsylvania-based institution.
Bresalier, a Dana Scholar pursuing a dual major in Psychology and Music, worked alongside fellow seniors Madilyn Cilley and Jordan Lavalle under the guidance of Karen Dearborn, MFA, a professor of dance. The group presented their project, “Supporting the Mental Health of Injured Dance Students at Muhlenberg College.”
The year-long research initiative explored how injured dance students can be better physically and psychologically supported. Through a student-led survey, faculty interviews, and analysis of existing literature, the team assessed how current resources are accessed and addressed within the college’s dance program.
“We believe that injury recovery in dance must be a package deal—supporting both mind and body,” the researchers stated. Their findings created an online handbook to guide students and faculty through recovery resources, mental health solidarity, and injury prevention strategies.
The handbook promotes dialogue between students, faculty, and college administrators, aiming to integrate mental wellness more effectively into the dance curriculum and injury protocols.
Muhlenberg College, founded in 1848, is known for its rigorous liberal arts education and commitment to intellectual and personal growth. The Dana Forum is a hallmark event showcasing student research on timely issues of public concern.
As a lifelong resident of Parsippany, I am deeply invested in the future of our community. 2017 Parsippany elected an inexperienced mayor, and the consequences were significant. The town’s $23 million budget surplus—carefully built under the leadership of Mayor James Barberio—was quickly depleted, ultimately resulting in an $8 million deficit.
In just two years, Mayor Barberio has demonstrated the value of experienced leadership by restoring fiscal stability and rebuilding our surplus to $11 million. With over a decade of experience in municipal governance, he understands the complexities of managing a multi-million-dollar budget—something his opponent has never done. The mayor’s office is not the place for on-the-job training.
That’s why I support the re-election of Mayor James Barberio, Councilman Frank Neglia, and Council Candidate Jigar Shah. They are the only team with proven experience and dedication to responsibly manage Parsippany’s future.
Councilman Frank Neglia has a long history of public service, including 15 years on the Board of Education—six as its President—20 years as Chairman of the Recreation Advisory Committee, and 30 years as President of the PTW Little League. His deep commitment to our community is unmatched.
Jigar Shah brings over 40 years of business experience and a strong track record of financial management. His service on multiple county and township boards—including Transportation, economic development, Recreation, and Planning—demonstrates his dedication to thoughtful, forward-looking leadership. He is also a respected voice in the Indian-American community.
On June 10th, I encourage all residents to vote for experienced, community-focused leadership. Re-elect James Barberio and Frank Neglia, and elect Jigar Shah—leaders who put Parsippany first.
Participants at a previous SAX 4 MILER event take off from the starting line. The upcoming 14th Annual race, scheduled for Saturday, September 20, 2025, will once again feature a USA Track and Field Certified four-mile double-loop course, along with two- and four-mile walk options for all ages and abilities.
PARSIPPANY — The 14th Annual SAX 4 MILER is scheduled for Saturday, September 20, at the headquarters of Sax LLP in Parsippany. Registration is now open for this community-focused walk/run event, which raises vital funds for the Child Life Department at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Paterson. Races start at 9:30 a.m.
Hosted by Sax LLP, the event brings together clients, colleagues, friends, and families to support therapies that provide emotional and psychological relief to hospitalized children. Over the years, the SAX 4 MILER has raised over $1 million, establishing Sax LLP as the department’s most prominent private donor.
One hundred percent of the proceeds go directly to funding therapeutic programs, including:
Art Therapy – Helping children express complex emotions through visual creativity
Music Therapy – Promoting healing and reducing stress through sound and rhythm
Animal-Assisted Therapy – Offering comfort and companionship with certified therapy animals
Horticultural Therapy – Encouraging recovery through interaction with nature
Therapeutic Play – Aiding children in understanding and coping with their medical treatments
The event occurs at Sax LLP’s Parsippany campus, where runners and walkers of all ages are welcome. Organizers emphasize that completing every mile helps improve the hospital experience for young patients facing challenging health journeys.
“This event is a reflection of Sax LLP’s commitment to both our community and the families served by St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital,” said a representative from the firm. “We are proud to continue this meaningful tradition.”
HANOVER — Norris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally confirmed the arrest of George R. Washington, 61, Whippany, on a complaint warrant for charges related to controlled dangerous substance distribution.
The complaint warrant alleges on May 13, 2025, Washington possessed with intent to distribute one-half ounce or more, but less than five ounces of cocaine and less than one-half ounce of heroin. As a result of this investigation, search warrants for Washington’s person, a Morristown residence he was known to be associated with, and his vehicle were obtained. On May 13, 2025, those warrants were executed resulting in the seizure of approximately 65 grams of suspected cocaine, 40 bundles of suspected heroin, $800 in U.S. currency of suspected narcotics proceeds, and foil folds and plastic baggies commonly used to distribute controlled dangerous substances.
As a result of the investigation, Washington has been charged with one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine in an amount of one-half ounce or more but less than five ounces, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5a(1)b(2), a crime of the Second Degree; one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin in an amount less than one-half ounce, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5a(1)b(3), a crime of the Third Degree; two counts of Possession of CDS, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10(a)(1), a crime of the Third Degree; one count of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia with Intent to Distribute, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:36-3, a crime of the Fourth Degree; and one count of Money Laundering, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:21-25(a), a crime of the Third Degree.
Pursuant to the Criminal Justice Reform Act, Washington remains detained in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a motion for pretrial detention.
Prosecutor Carroll wishes to thank the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement Unit, Morristown Police Department, Boonton Police Department, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, who worked jointly on this investigation.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and our local and county law enforcement partners will continue to work diligently and collaboratively to stop the distribution of dangerous narcotics in our community. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office will continue to dedicate resources to continue these vital investigations. We will not tolerate criminals seeking to profit off the backs of our most vulnerable.”
Editors Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
As an Indian-American resident of Parsippany, I feel compelled to speak out about a deeply troubling and disrespectful practice that many families in our community have recently experienced.
The Barberio campaign has been placing political signs on the front lawns of Indian households across Parsippany—without our permission. This is not speculation. It has happened repeatedly on streets like Halsey Road, Jacksonville Road, Lawrence Drive, and Meadow Bluff Road. Many of us have had to remove these signs ourselves after discovering them on our private property.
One homeowner even captured Councilman Frank Neglia on their Ring camera placing a campaign sign without consent. This is unacceptable behavior from anyone—especially an elected official.
This pattern of behavior feels like targeted exploitation. Indian families appear to be specifically chosen for this unauthorized advertising, perhaps under the assumption that we won’t push back. Let me be clear: we see what is happening and will not stay silent.
This tactic reminds me of the shady vote-by-mail scheme involving Jigar Shah during the last election. Once again, it appears Indian residents are being used for political advantage without respect for our voices or property.
I am calling on the Barberio campaign to immediately cease this practice of unauthorized sign placement, particularly in front of Indian homes. It’s not only a violation of trust—it’s a form of sign pollution that disrespects our community.
To my fellow Indian neighbors: if you did not permit a campaign sign to be placed on your property, you have every right to remove it. Do not fear retribution or intimidation. Your home is your space, and no political campaign has the right to claim it without your consent.
We came to Parsippany for a better life, to raise our families in peace and dignity. We expect our elected officials—and those who want to be—to treat us with basic respect.
If your sign is missing from the front yard or someone has put a sign you didn’t approve of, please check your Ring camera to find out.
Mayor James Barberio cuts the ceremonial ribbon at the grand opening of Tierra Encanto Coffee in Lake Hiawatha.
LAKE HIAWATHA — Tierra Encanto Coffee is officially open for business! On Saturday, April 26, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development joined Mayor James Barberio in cutting the ceremonial ribbon to welcome this unique Colombian coffee shop to the community.
Baristas at Tierra Encanto Coffee serve every cup with a smile, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the shop’s dedication to community and hospitality.
Located at 35 North Beverwyck Road in Lake Hiawatha, Tierra Encanto Coffee is the vision of founders Jesus Gueits, originally from Puerto Rico, and Yenifer Osorio, a native of Colombia. Together, they’ve brought to life a coffee experience deeply rooted in culture, sustainability, and excellence.
Tierra Encanto offers organic, single-origin specialty coffee from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia. This region is home to a diverse ecosystem—from cloud forests to dry tropical environments—and is cultivated under the shade of native trees such as oak, ceiba, guamo, banana, cacao, orange, and avocado. The coffee is grown not only by farmers but also by Indigenous communities, who play a vital role in the planting and harvesting process.
Tierra Encanto Coffee’s pastry display features a colorful assortment of freshly made Colombian and Latin-inspired treats, offering the perfect complement to their single-origin coffee.
Every cup at Tierra Encanto is a sensorial journey, showcasing the region’s rich and complex flavors. The brand is committed to full traceability, working directly with growers to ensure the highest quality beans while supporting local communities’ economic and social development.
“Our commitment goes beyond offering exceptional coffee,” said co-founder Yenifer Osorio. “We want every customer to feel a connection with the Sierra Nevada, its people, and its traditions.”
Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee presented a welcome plaque to the owners of Tierra Encanto Coffee.
Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee, welcomed the business with pride: “Tierra Encanto Coffee is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a cultural bridge that brings the rich heritage of the Sierra Nevada to our community. We’re proud to welcome a business so deeply committed to quality, sustainability, and tradition to Parsippany.”
From its warm customer experience to its carefully designed visual identity and functional packaging, Tierra Encanto aims to create lasting impressions at every touchpoint—from the café to its social media presence.
With each sip, customers enjoy premium coffee and support a more sustainable and equitable future—one rooted in heritage, respect for nature, and community development.
Tierra Encanto’s mission is to provide exceptional coffee while honoring authenticity, tradition, and environmental responsibility. Only hand-selected, high-quality beans are used, and organic farming practices help protect biodiversity and sustain the land for future generations.
In the upcoming Republican Primary, Incumbent Mayor James Barberio faced off with Councilman Justin Musella in what was a closely watched race.
PARSIPPANY — As the June 10 Republican primary approaches, Parsippany-Troy Hills is witnessing a contentious battle between incumbent Mayor James Barberio and Councilman Justin Musella, highlighting deep divisions within the local GOP.
A Divided Republican Front Mayor Barberio, 64, seeking a fourth term, has faced criticism from Musella and his supporters over issues like overdevelopment and tax incentives for developers. Musella, 32, who announced his candidacy last June, argues that the current administration has prioritized special interests over residents’ concerns. In response, Barberio emphasizes his experience and the town’s economic growth under his leadership.
Morris County GOP Chairwoman Laura Ali’s (and owner of TapInto Parsippany) efforts to unify the party through a joint ticket were unsuccessful. Musella rejected the proposal and continued his campaign independently.
Candidates and Running Mates Musella’s ticket includes Casey Parikh, a former Planning Board Chairman, and John Bielen, a business development professional. Both have been vocal about the need for change in local governance.
Barberio runs alongside incumbent Councilman Frank Neglia and Jigar Shah, the mayor’s liaison to the Indian American community. Their campaign focuses on continued development and fiscal responsibility.
Democratic Opposition On the Democratic side, Pulkit Desai, a cybersecurity expert and president of the Lake Parsippany Property Owners Association, has been nominated for mayor. His council running mates are Matt Kavanagh, a Navy veteran and environmental advocate, and Diya Patel, a law student and Parsippany Hills High School alumna.
Upcoming Debate The League of Women Voters of the Morris Area, in collaboration with the Daily Record and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Morristown Alumnae Chapter, will host a virtual Republican mayoral debate on Thursday, May 15, at 7:00 p.m. The forum will be livestreamed and available later on the League’s YouTube channel. The deadline for residents to submit questions for the candidates has passed.
“League-sponsored events are strictly nonpartisan,” the debate announcement states. “The League does not support or oppose any political candidate or party.”
The most recent intra-party dispute occurred in March, when Mayor James Barberio and his allies on the Township Council attempted to censure Councilman Justin Musella. The proposed censure stemmed from an incident during a 2023 traffic stop, in which Musella’s wife presented his business card to a township police officer after being pulled over for speeding. The effort sparked significant public backlash, culminating in a packed council meeting that required rescheduling due to overwhelming attendance. Ultimately, the council voted down the resolution.
In a notable political shift earlier this year, Morris County Republican Chair Laura Ali—who had previously supported Musella—threw her support behind Barberio. The endorsement marked a sharp departure from her prior criticism, when she described Barberio as “the highest-paid and least-qualified mayor in Morris County.”
Musella declined Ali’s offer, saying, “Our campaign to end the cycle of corruption, over-taxation, and taxpayer-funded overdevelopment in Parsippany, once and for all, cannot be intimidated.”
The GOP council candidates currently have no plans to debate. Parikh and Bielen agreed to take part in a League of Women Voters forum, but Neglia and Shah declined.
Parsippany Focus will share the video of the debate when it becomes available.
Justin Musella is one of the most reliable individuals I’ve encountered in Parsippany. He is candid and genuine and always greets you with a warm hug. He has done a great deal for our residents, especially by clearly explaining local issues that deeply impact our quality of life here.
Justin is committed to improving our town and truly wants to make Parsippany great again. I especially acknowledge his efforts within the Indian and South Asian communities. Since meeting Justin, I’ve seen him actively participate in numerous town events, such as Holi, Garba, and other cultural and social gatherings that matter to South Asians in our community.
Casey Parikh and John Bielen have also been great resources in spreading awareness. I’ve had friendly and warm-hearted conversations with them, and they care deeply about our town and its future. That’s why getting out and voting is more important than ever.
They show up when you need them—and that’s the kind of new way.
The vehicle rests on the lawn of a New Meadow Trail residence after crashing into a utility pole on May 7.
PARSIPPANY — A single-vehicle crash in the early afternoon on Wednesday, May 7, resulted in property damage after a Lake Hiawatha man lost control of his vehicle and struck a utility pole in a residential neighborhood.
At approximately 2:54 p.m., Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Robert Seifert responded to the intersection of Lodge Lane and New Meadow Trail following a vehicle crash report. According to the police report, a 17-year-old was driving a 2017 Buick Enclave eastbound on New Meadow Trail when he veered off the roadway.
The driver told officers he struck the curb with his front driver-side tire, which he believed caused a blowout and led to losing control. The investigation, led by Officer Robert Seifert, confirmed visible damage to the vehicle’s rim consistent with curb impact. Tire tracks were observed across the lawn of a New Meadow Trail resident, where the car reportedly traveled 50 to 60 feet before stopping after hitting a utility pole.
The crash damaged the lawn of a private residence. No injuries were reported. The driver was issued a summons for delaying traffic under statute 39:4-56.
PARSIPPANY — Exceptional student musicians from Parsippany were recognized as Music Students of the Month – Outstanding Band Members by the Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) during the Friday, May 9 performance of HMS Pinafore by the New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players.
The students were nominated by their music teachers in recognition of their dedication, skill, and leadership in their school music programs.
“Olesya is the lead alto saxophone player in our 8th-grade concert band and has grown tremendously as a musician. She now plays with a deep appreciation for musical context and the composer’s intent. Her attention to detail and strong musicianship have earned her a solo feature in our upcoming spring concert.
She also serves as lead alto sax in our jazz band and pit orchestra, having successfully auditioned for both. Beyond her talent, Olesya is consistently polite and responsible. Her musical ability and positive demeanor make her a perfect choice for this month’s recognition.”
Carlos Ramirez 12th Grade, Parsippany High School Nominated by: Greg Dalakian
“Carlos has been an integral part of our music department since his freshman year. He’s participated in Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, Pit Orchestra, and Marching Band. Carlos has served as a student leader for the past two seasons and even assisted in conducting during our marching band season and at our recent trip to Washington, D.C.
He has repeatedly earned spots on baritone sax in the North Jersey Area Band and Region I Band. Always dependable and committed, Carlos represents Parsippany High School with pride, honor, and spirit.”
Emily Thormann 8th Grade, Brooklawn Middle School Nominated by: Joseph Stella
“Emily is an outstanding lead trumpet player who has made impressive progress throughout middle school. She has a major trumpet solo in one of our pieces this year and has also earned lead trumpet spots in our jazz band and pit orchestra.
Emily’s dedication to her music and responsible and respectful nature make her an excellent choice for Music Student of the Month.
The MPAC Music Student of the Month program celebrates outstanding young musicians throughout the season. A final recital featuring the honorees will be held on Wednesday, June 4, at 6:00 p.m.
The 2024–2025 Music Student of the Month program is proudly supported by The Walter F. and Alice Gorham Foundation, Inc. Area teachers are encouraged to submit nominations for upcoming months.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany High School Girls Lacrosse Team invites the community to show its support by stopping by their upcoming car wash fundraiser on Saturday, May 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Parsippany High School.
For just $5.00—with additional donations gratefully accepted—residents can get their vehicles cleaned while backing a great cause. All proceeds will go toward senior scholarships and the team’s end-of-season banquet, helping recognize student-athletes for their hard work and dedication throughout the season.
The Parsippany Red Hawk Lacrosse Club is organizing the fundraiser. The club has long supported youth and school-level lacrosse programs in the township. For those unable to attend in person, donations can also be made via Venmo @Parsippany-RedHawk.
Events like these not only help raise funds, but also strengthen the bond between Parsippany’s student-athletes and the broader community.
Come out, support the Red Hawks, and leave with a cleaner car!
