During the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council meeting, Anthony Fasano first handed a candy shaped like feces to Councilman Justin Musella, saying, “Because they’re two pieces of shit,” before throwing another at Editor-in-Chief Frank Cahill.
PARSIPPANY — What happened at last night’s Parsippany-Troy Hills Council meeting was more than just inappropriate – it was deeply disappointing. As our Editor-in-Chief, Frank Cahill, sat quietly doing his job, Anthony Fasano, a local coach, threw a piece of candy shaped like feces at him.
Fasano without hesitation, handed another one to Councilman Justin Musella stating “Because they’re two pieces of shit.”
This wasn’t just some bizarre attempt at humor. It was an act meant to humiliate. To mock. And to intimidate. But what hurt even more was the silence. Council President Paul Carifi Jr., was sitting just a few feet away. He didn’t say a word. He didn’t ask for the order. He didn’t stand up for basic decency. This silence sends the wrong message.
For over thirty years, Parsippany Focus has worked to keep its reporting fair, clear, and focused on the facts. We’ve reported on stories involving public employees, redevelopment issues, and local businesses, with a single agenda: keeping our community informed.
We know emotions run high in town right now, and not everyone will agree with our report. And that’s okay—disagreement is part of democracy. But throwing anything at someone, especially something meant to dehumanize them, is not.
We’re not writing this for sympathy. We’re writing it because this kind of behavior, if left uncalled, becomes normalized. And Parsippany deserves better than that. To those who support Anthony Fasano, we ask you to reflect. Disagree, debate, protest – yes. But don’t let your frustration justify cruelty.
To our elected leaders: We ask you to lead, not just in policy, but in principle. Say something when something’s wrong. We’re all watching.
And to our readers: thank you. We’ll keep showing up. We’ll keep writing. And we’ll keep believing that truth and respect still matter in this town we care so deeply about.
Editor’s Note: (Updated Wednesday, May 21, 11:10 p.m.) We reached out to Paul Carifi, Jr., before the article was posted for comment, and as of now, he has ignored our request.
Councilman Justin Musella, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., and Councilman Matt McGrath
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Council Meeting – May 20, 2025.
Parsippany Township has secured the open space behind St. Christopher’s Church, putting an end to years of development proposals.
PARSIPPANY — Mayor James Barberio announced a major land preservation initiative during Tuesday evening’s Township Council meeting, securing approximately 10 acres of open space in a move celebrated by environmental advocates and residents concerned about overdevelopment.
Barberio’s announcement comes just before a hotly contested primary for his mayoral seat in which he has been criticized for overdevelopment, tax hikes, and urban sprawl.
The Township has agreed to purchase the property from St. Christopher’s Church for $2.5 million. Funding for the acquisition will come from Parsippany’s voter-approved Open Space Trust Fund, ensuring the land remains permanently protected and available for public use.
“This has been a significant concern to many in the community due to repeated development applications,” said Mayor Barberio. “Now, it’s time to preserve this land for generations.”
The parcel, located adjacent to St. Christopher’s Church, has been the subject of multiple development proposals in recent years. Notably, in 2020, GTP Acquisitions, LLC, proposed “Thrive at Parsippany,” which included 156 dwelling units comprising assisted/memory care and independent living units. Amenities were to feature a central social court, fitness center, café, open workspace, outdoor recreation areas, and a promenade walking area.
Access to the proposed development was planned from Rita Drive, with circulation and parking independent of the church. The plan also involved purchasing the property at 21 Rita Drive to serve as the entrance and exit for the complex. However, the proposal faced significant opposition from residents concerned about increased traffic, strain on infrastructure, and the impact on the neighborhood’s character.
After extensive public hearings and deliberations, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board ultimately denied the application for the senior living facility in September 2022.
Mayor Barberio emphasized that once the township finalizes the purchase, the land cannot be sold to developers, providing relief to nearby residents who have long advocated for preserving this green space.
Mayor Barberio thanked Father Luis Hernandez of St. Christopher’s Church for his collaboration and commended his leadership in helping make the preservation agreement possible.
“This is a win for our residents and a testament to what can be achieved through cooperation and community-focused leadership,” Barberio added.
The parcel behind St. Christopher’s Church will be purchased by the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.
Parsippany's Cherry Hill and Upper Pond Roads Witness Transformation: 325 Rental Units
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany will soon welcome 134 new affordable rental apartments across three modern complexes—The Lexica, Avalon, and The Lawrence—all located in Morris County. The apartments are expected to be available by summer or fall 2025.
To be considered, applicants must submit a preliminary application at www.AffordableHomesNewJersey.com by July 17, 2025, to enter a random lottery for priority placement. Applicants without email access may call 609-664-2769 ext. 5 for assistance.
🏢 Property Highlights:
The Lexica (11–21 Upper Pond Road): 65 units, includes co-working space, game room, pool, and lounge.
Avalon (3 Campus Drive): 51 units, includes pet spa, fitness center, and BBQ courtyard.
The Lawrence (169 Johnson Road): 18 units, includes work-from-home pods, pet spa, and conference room.
All units feature central air, dishwasher, and washer & dryer. All communities are smoke-free and pet-friendly (restrictions and fees apply).
🏠 Apartment Types & Starting Rents:
Studios, 1BR, 2BR, 3BR units available
Rents start as low as $440/month, depending on income tier (Very Low, Low, Moderate)
Utilities not included
💰 Maximum Household Income Limits (Moderate Tier):
1 person: $75,840
2 people: $86,640
3 people: $97,440
4 people: $108,240
5 people: $116,960
6 people: $125,600
Eligible applicants who live or work in Morris, Essex, Union, or Warren counties will be given preference.
Volunteers from Parsippany District 5 Fire Department
PARSIPPANY — Fire District #5 voters are encouraged to participate in a special election on Wednesday, May 28, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Station 1, located at 180 Old Bloomfield Avenue.
The election’s purpose is to seek voter approval for the purchase of three items required by the district. Officials emphasize that this vote will not result in any new taxes or tax increases.
According to the Fire District, the funds for these purchases have already been allocated within the current budget. However, due to the size of the expenditures, state regulations require resident approval through a special election.
“We’re asking for your support to use money already set aside for these important needs,” the Commissioners stated. “This will have no impact on your taxes.”
Residents with questions regarding the election or items on the ballot are encouraged to contact the Fire District directly.
The volunteer firefighters of District #5 thank the community for their continued support and look forward to seeing voters on May 28.
Dharmaraj Nagarajan participated in the 22nd Annual Tour de Elizabeth
PARSIPPANY — Dharmaraj Nagarajan participated in the 22nd Annual Tour de Elizabeth on Sunday, May 18. This 15-mile community bike ride, organized by the City of Elizabeth in partnership with Groundwork Elizabeth, showcased the city’s historic and scenic neighborhoods—the event aimed to promote community engagement, healthy living, and support for local development initiatives.
Dharmaraj, a senior software engineer at Agadia Systems and a passionate cyclist, has a history of participating in community fitness events. His involvement in the Tour de Elizabeth reflects his commitment to supporting local development and fostering community spirit.
The Tour de Elizabeth is an annual recreational ride that welcomes cyclists of all skill levels. The 2025 event started and finished at Elizabeth’s City Hall, featuring a route that highlighted the city’s charm and diversity. Participants enjoyed a day of cycling, community spirit, and post-ride festivities, including raffles and local dining options.
Click here to visit the official Tour de Elizabeth page for more information about the event and future participation.
Councilman Justin Musella, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., and Councilman Matt McGrath
PARSIPPANY — The Township Council of Parsippany-Troy Hills is scheduled to hold its next meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard.
Kiwanis member Carol Tiesi joins Key Club members in collecting food donations for the Parsippany Food Pantry outside ShopRite.
PARSIPPANY—On Sunday, May 18, it was a sunny and productive afternoon at the Parsippany ShopRite, as members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany and student volunteers from Parsippany Hills and Parsippany High School Key Clubs joined forces for a community food drive to benefit the Parsippany Food Pantry.
Kiwanis Club member Marie Abahoonie lends a helping hand during the food drive to support the Parsippany Food Pantry at ShopRite.
Five Kiwanis Club members and ten Key Clubbers volunteered their time, collecting more than seven carts full of much-needed food items. Generous shoppers helped fill the volunteers’ bags in real time as donations were received.
Kiwanis member Sue Slaughter is pictured with Key Club members as they work together collecting donations for the Parsippany Food Pantry at ShopRite.
In addition to the food collection, $450 in ShopRite gift cards were donated, and an additional $350 in cash was collected, which will be converted into more gift cards to support the pantry’s needs.
Marie Abahoonie, Judi Chase, Sue Slaughter, Carol Tiesi, and Doreen Brennan, President of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, were among the Kiwanis members who participated.
“This is what Kiwanis is all about,” said Carol Tiesi, celebrating the spirit of service and teamwork. “We’re grateful for the support of our community and proud of our incredible Key Clubbers who stepped up to make a difference.”
Volunteers load vehicles with bags of donated food, ready to be delivered to the Parsippany Food Pantry following a successful community food drive at ShopRite.
“Our food drives are a perfect example of what happens when dedicated volunteers and compassionate community members come together,” said Doreen Brennan, President of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. “The generosity we witnessed on Saturday will make a real difference for needy families.”
The next food drive is scheduled forSunday, June 1, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Parsippany ShopRite.
Key Club New Jersey, with 10,621 members across the state, is part of the Kiwanis family and is the largest student-led service organization for high school students. Dedicated to building leadership skills through volunteerism, Key Club empowers students to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
Kiwanis member Sue Slaughter teams up with Key Clubbers to collect food donations from generous shoppers at ShopRite for the Parsippany Food Pantry.
The delightful menu at the Lake Parsippany Ladies Auxiliary's Annual Pancake Breakfast featured mouthwatering pancakes and savory sausage, satisfying the taste buds of all who attended. It was a scrumptious feast that left guests wanting more.
PARSIPPANY — The Post 249 American Legion is inviting the community to a delicious morning of food and fellowship at their upcoming Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, June 22, from 8:00 a.m. until noon.
Held at the Legion’s location at 91 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha, the breakfast promises a hearty meal including pancakes, bacon, sausage, fruit salad, coffee, tea, assorted fruit juices, chocolate milk, and regular milk. It’s a perfect way for families, friends, and neighbors to enjoy a summer morning together while supporting a great cause.
Tickets are priced at $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children ages 6 to 12. Children under 5 eat free.
To purchase tickets, call (973) 335-9266 or stop by the Legion between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday (use the back bar entrance).
All proceeds support the programs and initiatives of Post 249 American Legion.
Amy Archer, Victor DeVito and Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen.
MORRIS COUNTY — At this week’s public meeting, the Morris County Board of County Commissioners declared May 2025 Mental Health Awareness Month, recognizing the essential work of advocates, service providers, and county professionals who support individuals living with mental health challenges.
“Since 1949, May has helped people talk more openly about mental health, offer support, and improve access to care. Mental health affects all of us — our children, families, neighbors, and communities — and yet too many still suffer in silence. This month, we thank the people and organizations who provide care, support, and hope,” said Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen, who presented the proclamation.
Amy Archer, director of the Division of Community and Behavioral Health Services and the county’s Mental Health Administrator, accepted the framed proclamation along with members of the county’s Mental Health Addictions Services Advisory Board (MHASAB) and the county’s Professional Advisory Committee (PAC), whose invited members represent local provider agencies serving residents in need.
“Over the past few years there have been many initiatives at the state and local level to support the needs of our residents including the rollout of 988, a nationwide suicide & crisis lifeline; mobile crisis outreach response teams that respond to individuals in the community; the ARRIVE together program, a collaboration coordinated through the Morris County Prosecutors Office with local law enforcement and mental health specialists; and mental health programs within our court system such as the Mental Health Diversion Program,” said Archer.
“While this proclamation builds residents’ awareness of these issues, it also helps to foster a larger call to action to identify and support those in need,” said Victor DeVito, Chair of the MHASAB. “We deeply appreciate the commissioner’s continued funding support for these vital county programs. The dedication to prioritizing mental health services has made, and continues to make, a significant difference in the lives of countless citizens.”
The MHASAB is charged with reviewing, monitoring, and improving county mental health and addiction services. The board also recommends the allocation of county funds to ensure that a full continuum of care is available, accessible, and affordable for residents in need. The PAC, composed of leaders from local provider organizations, offers professional insights and guidance on program operations and emerging community needs.
The MHASAB meets on the second Thursday of the month at 5:15 p.m. at the Division of Community & Behavioral Health Services (Morris County Non-Profit Mall), 1 Medical Drive in Morris Plains. Meetings are open to the public and provide a forum for addressing behavioral health needs in the community.
Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw; Marie Hess, Morris County Human Services Advisory Council Coordinator; Kensie Fosko, Morris County Youth Services and Addictions Coordinator; Amy Archer, Director of Community and Behavioral Health Services; Chris Chernick, Vice-Chair of MHASAB; Victor DeVito, Chair of MHASAB; Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen, Commissioner Deborah Smith; Cherish Robinson, Municipal County Alliance Coordinator; Commissioners Douglas Cabana, John Krickus, Christine Myers and Kasey Errico, Director of the Department of Human Services.
VFW Post 10184 and American Legion Post 249 are set to lead the 2025 Memorial Day Parade procession, honoring the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will proudly honor the men and women of the United States Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice with its annual Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 26.
The community is invited to gather with neighbors, friends, and family to pay tribute to those who gave their lives in service to the nation. The parade will begin promptly at 12:00 noon at Sylvan Way and Route 202, proceed along Route 202, and conclude at the reviewing stand at Route 202 and Rita Drive.
The event serves as a meaningful opportunity for residents to reflect on the true purpose of Memorial Day—honoring the fallen heroes who defended our freedom.
Community groups, veterans’ organizations, local officials, and marching bands are expected to participate, creating a spirited and solemn display of remembrance.
Residents are encouraged to line the parade route and wear patriotic colors in support of the brave individuals who served and sacrificed for the United States of America.
A glimpse into the past: Members work the grounds of Tabor Golf Course, circa 1917. What began as a modest six-hole course has since evolved into a cherished Parsippany landmark.
Nestled in the heart of Parsippany, Mount Tabor Country Club stands as one of New Jersey’s oldest private country clubs. Known for its challenging golf course, welcoming members, warm camaraderie, and vibrant social calendar—it proudly celebrates its 125th Anniversary this year.
Founded in 1900 as the six-hole Mount Tabor Field Club, the club was incorporated and renamed the Tabor Field Club in 1904. Just a few years later, in 1908, it expanded to a regulation nine-hole course. In 1931, it adopted the name Mount Tabor Country Club, a name that continues to reflect its rich heritage and strong sense of community.
“Celebrating Mount Tabor Country Club’s 125th anniversary is more than marking a milestone—it’s a heartfelt tribute to generations of members who have made this club their home away from home. It’s a time to honor our ties to the Mount Tabor community, reflect on the friendships forged, and look ahead with pride as we continue enhancing our facilities to ensure the next 125 years are just as remarkable as the last,” — Jim Sens, President, MTCC, lifelong and second-generation member
The club’s original clubhouse served until 1911, when the current clubhouse was constructed. Since then, it has maintained its signature rustic charm while evolving with thoughtful enhancements—like the addition of a pro shop, new bar room, a fully renovated men’s locker room (2024), and a modernized ballroom perfect for weddings, showers, and private events.
While golf membership was originally limited to Mount Tabor residents, that changed in the mid-1900s when the club opened its doors to members from surrounding areas. Today, MTCC proudly welcomes members from four New Jersey counties.
Back in 1907, annual dues were just $10—a remarkable deal even then. Today, MTCC carries on that tradition of accessibility, offering a variety of reasonably priced membership packages for individuals and families. With top-tier amenities, a friendly atmosphere, and flexible options, MTCC offers unmatched value while staying true to the spirit that has defined it for generations.
A Few Fun Facts:
The original course had makeshift tees, greens, and tin cans for cups—built entirely by the members themselves.
Sunday golf wasn’t allowed until 1927.
There’s a natural spring on the 7th hole, once used as a water source for all of Mount Tabor. Golfers still enjoy the fresh water today.
MTCC was voted “Best of the Best” Golf Courses in Morris County by readers of the Daily Record.
The club is home to many second- and third-generation members—a testament to the positive experiences it offers.
A Championship-Level Experience
The nine-hole course features 18 tee boxes, giving each back-nine play a unique and challenging feel—mirroring an 18-hole championship course. Every round provides variety and demands skill across all parts of the game.
PGA Golf Pro Casey O’Reilly, a Class A PGA Member, leads the club’s golf program. Known for his instructional excellence and equipment expertise, Casey offers lessons, fittings, and runs a full slate of events—including men’s and women’s tournaments, clinics, and leagues. He also leads the Wednesday Night League and a thriving Women’s League.
An aerial view of the beautifully maintained greens at Mount Tabor Country Club today, showcasing the club’s lush fairways and timeless charm nestled in the heart of Parsippany.
More Than Just Golf
Summer at Mount Tabor Country Club is a season of memories. Friday nights bring everyone together for trivia, sing-alongs, pig roasts, and laid-back dinners that stretch long into the evening. These are just a sample of the club’s year-round social events, which include game nights, movie nights, and seasonal celebrations like Halloween, Christmas, and Super Bowl parties.
In 2024, MTCC proudly welcomed Chef Richard Krug and his talented culinary team, who have elevated every meal and infused new energy into the club’s long-standing dining traditions.
A Community That Lasts
At Mount Tabor Country Club, members don’t just join—they stay. With an impressive annual retention rate, the club’s appeal goes far beyond golf. It’s about the friendships, the atmosphere, and a culture that welcomes everyone.
New members are always welcome, and quickly discover what makes MTCC so special: a private club experience, without the pretense. Here, you’ll find down-to-earth, fun, and competitive people who make every round and every gathering something to look forward to.
Abed Adawi, co-founder of AB Marketing Group, cuts the ribbon for the new office at Suite 212 alongside other co-founder Steve Burk at 10 Lanidex Plaza West, joined by employees, community members, and family.
PARSIPPANY—AB Marketing Group, a digital marketing company based in Parsippany, has officially celebrated the grand opening of a new office suite at 10 Lanidex Plaza West, Suite 212.
The agency, specializing in online advertising and branding for local businesses in the Morris County area, kicked off its operations with a bang, hosting a jubilant ribbon-cutting event this past Thursday, May 15. Among the festivities were a multicolored bouncy house, a pizza vendor serving delectable slices from Calandra’s Bakery, and a DJ booth to keep the energy pumping for the suite’s exciting launch.
However, the one unifying thread among most of these vendors at the company’s ribbon-cutting was simple: ties to the AB Marketing Group. Keeping in theme with the group’s commitment to local community service, many of the companies providing service were clients of the marketing group itself, providing their vendors a great “opportunity for publicity and advertising,” in the words of AB Marketing Group Co-Owner Abed Adawi.
Adawi, one of two founders alongside longtime friend Steve Burk, tells the Parsippany Focus that their business came with surprisingly humble beginnings. The firm started over eight years ago and was run by just a couple of high school friends, a personal credit card, no investors, and a makeshift office working out of their parents’ basement.
Adawi and Burk, after whom the company is aptly named, weren’t ready to concede in the face of hardship that easily. Both graduates of the Parsippany High School Class of 2012, Adawi took on a few finance-related jobs there. He worked at a nearby Chase Bank for four years as he sought to make a stable living after graduation. However, after his unfruitful post in banking, Adawi was forced to reflect on his roots in the Parsippany community. A student-athlete for Parsippany High, Adawi was familiar with social media marketing from working with brands on the field. It was from that significant spark that the idea for the company was built—if Adawi and Burk could give just one person a space to develop their growing career and have the opportunity to thrive, it would all be worth it.
That’s why the pair resolutely propelled forward after working through office spaces across North Jersey, from Bloomfield to their parents’ basements in Parsippany. At first, working with local pizzerias and gyms, their clientele has since expanded internationally, becoming a marketing hub for illustrious brands such as Lamborghini, BMW North America, and Lithia Motors. Now a seven-figure business, the 40-employee team only aspires to shoot bigger, hoping to scale up to eight or nine figures in the coming years.
Yet, despite their rapid growth, Adawi and Burk have never forgotten their origins: the hometown community they fostered in Parsippany. Their love for the township was the driving catalyst that brought them back to a local suite at Lanidex Plaza as soon as their Bloomfield office lease expired, and the pair still works regionally to keep publicity for Morris County businesses up and running. For Adawi, who still holds regular presentations at Parsippany High School for business classes taught by beloved teacher Mrs. Christina Russell, he hopes to inspire Parsippany youth to keep their financial dreams afloat, creating professional opportunities for young people that Adawi wasn’t fortunate enough to have growing up.
“We’re always looking to recruit new talent!” Adawi tells the Focus. “Team culture is a big thing for our company, and we’re always looking to take care of our employees.”
“It’s inspiring to see young entrepreneurs like Abed and Steve return to their roots and give back to the community that helped shape them,” said Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee. “Their success is a testament to what can be achieved when talent, dedication, and community support come together.”
For a company with roots in Parsippany, it’s refreshing for the AB Marketing team to be replanted back where it all started. With a multifarious business approach incorporating video production, website building, and online advertising into its broad portfolio of expertise, the group is actively seeking to expand its clientele with large and small businesses.
While ribbon cuttings are part of the fun at AB Marketing, the spirit of the community has driven their firm from a small start-up to an internationally recognized agency. For the two best friends who made it big in digital marketing, all the merriment would have never been possible without the support of their family, some ardent resolve, and a whole lot of hometown backing.
Festivities prior to the ribbon cutting in the office’s parking lot.
Dr. Trivikrama Bhanoji Reddy Pala proudly holds the Jeffrey Sherman Life Changers Award, recognizing his groundbreaking innovations in medical technology and dedication to global patient care.
PARSIPPANY —Dr. Trivikrama Bhanoji Reddy Pala, a longtime Parsippany resident and Senior Staff Engineer at Becton Dickinson (BD), has been named the esteemed Jeffrey Sherman Life Changers Award recipient. The honor is among BD’s highest recognitions, awarded by Chief Executive Officer Tom Polen and BD leadership to individuals who exemplify the company’s core values and deliver transformative impact.
For the past 15 years, Dr. Reddy has played a pivotal role in advancing BD’s research and development efforts, with innovations that have reached patients across the globe. He is credited as the lead designer behind the Vystra Pen, an insulin delivery device that has improved diabetes management for millions. His work also includes the Libertas wearable injector, which supports the treatment of chronic conditions like Lupus and Alzheimer’s, and has provided new options for patients undergoing chemotherapy.
A holder of fourteen patents, Dr. Reddy’s contributions go far beyond product development. His vision for inclusive healthcare design and dedication to patient-centric solutions have placed him among BD’s most impactful innovators.
In addition to his professional success, Dr. Reddy is actively involved in service initiatives in New Jersey and his native Andhra Pradesh, India. As a longtime member of the North American Telugu Association (NATA), he has contributed to more than 15 community projects, including the installation of a water plant in India that serves over 100 families and the organization of local blood drives and food donations.
Earlier this year, NATA honored him with the NATA-Award-2023 for his outstanding engineering and public service contributions.
Dr. Reddy also shares his knowledge with the next generation of engineers as an adjunct professor at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, where he holds a perfect 5.0 rating on Rate My Teacher. He conducts workshops in India to encourage careers in product design and mentors Telugu students pursuing studies in the United States.
“Dr. Reddy represents the best of Parsippany’s talent and spirit,” said one colleague. “His leadership in science and his dedication to giving back make him an inspiration both locally and globally.”
Dover Station – NJ Transit: Located in downtown Dover, the Dover NJ Transit Station serves as a key transit hub in Morris County, connecting passengers to the Morris & Essex Line. The station offers service to Hoboken Terminal and New York Penn Station, with connections through Secaucus Junction. Dover is the western terminus for most Midtown Direct trains, making it a vital stop for commuters traveling between northwest New Jersey and New York City.
MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey Transit’s rail service is set to resume on Tuesday, May 20, following a three-day strike by the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET). The strike began on Friday, May 16, marking the state’s first rail work stoppage in over 40 years and disrupting commutes for approximately 350,000 daily riders across New Jersey and New York City.
A tentative agreement was reached on Sunday, May 18, addressing the engineers’ primary concern: wages. The new deal includes hourly pay increases that surpass the previously rejected proposal from March. While specific terms have not been disclosed, the agreement is pending ratification by BLET members and approval by the NJ Transit board, scheduled for June 11.
NJ Transit requires approximately 24 hours to conduct necessary inspections and prepare infrastructure before full service can resume. Therefore, limited bus services and Park & Ride options will be available on Monday, May 19. Commuters are encouraged to work from home to reduce congestion during this transitional period.
Governor Phil Murphy and NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri have praised the agreement as both fair and fiscally responsible, emphasizing that it addresses employee concerns without necessitating fare increases or compromising the agency’s budget .For the latest updates and detailed information on service resumption, commuters should visit the official NJ Transit website or follow their social media channels.
Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Firefighters stand united to recognize one of their longest-serving members, Robert Onufrick
PARSIPPANY — On Friday, May 17, the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company, which serves Parsippany-Troy Hills Fire District Two, honored Robert Onufrick for an extraordinary milestone: 50 years of active service as a volunteer firefighter.
The celebration occurred at The Mansion at Mountain Lakes, where fellow firefighters, family, friends, and neighbors gathered to pay tribute to Onufrick’s enduring dedication to public safety and community service.
Affectionately known as “Bobby O” among his peers, Robert Onufrick took a moment during the ceremony to acknowledge his wife, Mary, for her steadfast support. “Her encouragement made it possible for me to serve this community fully,” he shared. Their partnership was noted as a foundation of his long-standing commitment.
Commissioner Tayfun Selen, on behalf of the Morris County Board of Commissioners, presents Robert Onufrick with a proclamation recognizing his 50 years of dedication.
The Morris County Board of Commissioners, Tayfun Selen, and the officers and members of the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company also honored him.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio expressed his gratitude on behalf of the township, recognizing Onufrick’s five decades of service as a model of civic responsibility.
One of the afternoon’s highlights was a special exhibit curated by fellow firefighters and Onufrick’s family. The display featured decades of photos, memorabilia, and meaningful artifacts that captured the story of Bobby O’s firefighting journey and his deep roots in the Rainbow Lakes community.
The event honored a milestone and celebrated a life of service that continues to inspire the next generation of first responders in Parsippany.
A cake fit for a hero: Robert Onufrick’s 50 years as a volunteer firefighter were sweetly celebrated.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus magazine, June 2025. Click here to read the digital version of the magazine.
Going into the recent debate, I was genuinely undecided. Even though Musella personally knocked on my door, I still wasn’t convinced whether we should abandon Mayor Barberio. I’ve lived in Parsippany long enough to see its highs and lows, and I wasn’t sure if either candidate could truly bring about the kind of change we need. I have consistently voted for Mayor Barberio, but after watching the debate, I came away convinced that Councilman Justin Musella is the leader we need to move this town forward.
Musella didn’t rely on talking points—he spoke with passion, clarity, and most importantly, sincerity. He presented fundamental ideas and a vision that put residents first, not developers and their slick attorney, Mr. Inglesino. What impressed me most was his willingness to challenge the status quo and hold those in power accountable, including Mayor Barberio.
While Mayor leaned on past accomplishments, Musella looked ahead. His focus on improving transparency, restoring fiscal responsibility, and making Parsippany a place where families and businesses want to stay resonated deeply with me.
Councilman Musella made a compelling case for changing a Parsippany Republican Party deeply in need of fresh blood. I believe he is sincere in his commitment to making Parsippany a great place to live again. He has earned my support for his ticket, Casey Parikh, and John Bielen, on June 10th.
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.
