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Dec 24, 2024

PARSIPPANY — A local nonprofit, Rose House, which provides permanent housing for adults with special needs, has awarded its prestigious Golden Rose Award to Liquid Church in Parsippany. Liquid Church, located at 299 Webro Road, supported Rose House as part of its 2024 Fall Outreach program. Their efforts included hosting Rose House’s anniversary celebration at their Morris County campus and volunteering to construct a wheelchair ramp and deck at a group home in Budd Lake.

“This award recognizes outstanding support and advocacy,” said Tom Mitchell, CEO of Rose House. “Liquid Church has demonstrated remarkable dedication to individuals with special needs.”

Beyond its partnership with Rose House, Liquid Church annually hosts the “Night to Shine” prom, providing an inclusive celebration for individuals with special needs. The church received the Golden Rose Award during its Christmas Outreach event on December 6, coinciding with a meal-packaging initiative for Zambia and other developing nations.

Rose House, headquartered in Parsippany, aims to create inclusive, loving homes for individuals with special needs. The organization currently operates six homes in Morris County, with plans for a seventh in Chester Township.

Letter to the Editor: Business Administrator Cryan Delivers Fact-Based Update on Drone Reports

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Dec 23, 2024

Dear Editor:

I want to commend Business Administrator James Cryan, Council President Paul Carifi, and Council Member Justin Musella for the reassuring information they shared with Parsippany residents at last week’s Council meeting about “the drone situation.” Mr. Carifi and Mr. Musella spoke about the active support and information regularly provided by Sheriff Gannon and other Morris County officials regarding their ongoing efforts to investigate and resolve the numerous reported drone sightings.

Mr. Cryan provided updates from a briefing earlier in the week, which he participated in and was conducted by the FBI, the White House, and the Department of Defense. According to Mr. Cryan, the briefing concluded that the reported drone sightings were determined to be aircraft that were either lawful or misidentified, and in some cases, even an occasional star in the night sky.

In sharp contrast to these reassuring comments, Mayor Barberio, demonstrating considerable ignorance and a disconnect with his own Business Administrator, resorted to his standard practice of fear-mongering. He made the following uninformed and accusatory comments:

“If the CIA, the FBI, and the Secret Service say they don’t know, how are we going to know? Kind of makes you wonder. Do they know? I think they do know. They are full of it. I think they do know. They are not telling us. How can we not be concerned?”

What a contrast: rational, fact-based information provided by experts versus paranoid propaganda spouted by a panicked politician.

It will be interesting to see which approach resonates with Parsippany voters in next year’s Republican Mayoral primary.

Bob Crawford
Montville

NewcrestImage Opens Homewood Suites After Refresh

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Dec 23, 2024

Homewood-Suites — The hotel was previously a Sonesta Suites and is located at 61 Interpace Parkway.

PARSIPPANY — A 150-unit, five-floor all-suites property in Parsippany has been converted by NewcrestImage and is operating under the Homewood Suites by Hilton brand. The company acquired the hotel in June 2022.

“We don’t just see properties as they are but rather as what they can be,” said Mehul Patel, managing partner/CEO, of NewcrestImage. “This hotel, with its strategic location along Interstate 80 between New York and Pennsylvania in northern New Jersey, offered a compelling opportunity for increased profitability with rebranding.”

The renovation revitalized every aspect of the hotel’s public areas and suites with modern, comfortable furnishings. Two meeting rooms accommodate corporate events, while other amenities include an indoor pool, upgraded fitness center, and complimentary daily buffet breakfast. Every suite features a kitchen and a variety of “like-home” amenities including high-speed internet and Hilton’s Connected TV with streaming services.

The Homewood Suites is located near Newark Liberty International Airport (23 miles), Morris Plains Railway Station (2 miles), and a five major interstate and state highways network.

Located near numerous corporate offices and business parks, the hotel is also close to attractions such as the 2,500-seat multipurpose Mennen Sports Arena (5 miles), Frelinghuysen Arboretum (5 miles), Morris Museum (8 miles), American Dream Mall (25 miles), and the endless options of New York City (29 miles).

The hotel was previously a Sonesta Suites located at 61 Interpace Parkway.

Brooklyn Men Sentenced for Violent Robberies, Including Parsippany Check Cashing Location

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Dec 22, 2024

Gavel with handcuffs and money on the wooden table. Crime and law concept. — File Photo

PARSIPPANY — Two Brooklyn men were sentenced to lengthy prison terms for their involvement in a series of violent robberies, including one in Parsippany, highlighting the collaborative efforts of law enforcement in bringing them to justice. The crimes, which spanned three states, targeted check cashing locations and involved the use of firearms and physical restraint of employees, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

Defendants and Sentencing
Ramel Harris, also known as Ramel Harrison, 43, and Neville Brown, 40, both of Brooklyn, New York, were sentenced to 186 months (15.5 years) in prison each by U.S. District Judge Claire C. Cecchi in Newark federal court. They previously pleaded guilty to charges of Hobbs Act conspiracy, Hobbs Act robbery, and using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. In addition to their prison terms, both men were sentenced to five years of supervised release.

The Robberies and Their Impact on Parsippany
Between January 2021 and January 2022, Harris and Brown orchestrated a string of robberies, including a violent heist at a Parsippany check cashing location. The robbers brandished firearms, used zip ties to restrain female employees, and stole significant sums of money. Their actions left an indelible mark on the local community.

The Parsippany robbery was part of a broader spree that included locations in Old Bridge, and Hackettstown, as well as an attempted robbery in Nanuet, New York. In total, Harris and Brown stole approximately $563,566.35.

The Investigation
A meticulous investigation, involving multiple law enforcement agencies, revealed Harris and Brown’s criminal network. Authorities obtained video surveillance and analyzed historical cell phone records, placing the men at the crime scenes, including the Parsippany robbery. The investigation also uncovered their surveillance of check cashing locations in Mount Kisco, New York, Allentown, Pennsylvania, and West Chester, Pennsylvania, indicating the scope of their criminal conspiracy.

Law Enforcement Collaboration
The arrests and convictions were made possible by the coordinated efforts of numerous law enforcement agencies, including the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department under the leadership of Police Chief Richard Pantina. U.S. Attorney Sellinger also credited the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, the FBI’s field offices in New Jersey, New York, and Philadelphia, and police departments from Hackettstown, Old Bridge, and other jurisdictions.

Community Impact and Justice Served
The successful prosecution of Harris and Brown underscores the commitment of law enforcement to protecting communities like Parsippany. The resolution of this case serves as a reminder that crimes against local businesses and residents will be met with swift and decisive justice.

Agustina Vinals of Brooklawn Middle School Wins Grand Prize in Optimum’s 2024 Hispanic Heritage Essay Contest

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Dec 22, 2024

ParsippanyHispanicHeritageEssayContest — Optimum’s Jay Keel, Optimum’s Hispanic Heritage Grand Prize Winner Agustina, and Optimum’s Brian Quinn

PARSIPPANY — Agustina Vinals, a student at Brooklawn Middle School, has been named one of the Grand Prize winners in Optimum’s 2024 Hispanic Heritage Essay Contest. Organized in collaboration with the Univision Foundation, the annual contest celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month and highlights the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic Americans.

Students across Optimum’s 21-state service area were invited to participate by writing a 500-word essay about a person, cultural experience, celebration, or tradition that connected them to Hispanic culture and what it means to them. The contest ran from September 15 to October 31, and Agustina’s essay stood out among hundreds of submissions, earning her one of four Grand Prize scholarships of $3,000.

“We are honored to witness the remarkable creativity and heartfelt stories shared by students through our Hispanic Heritage Essay Contest,” said Jen Ostrager, Senior Vice President of Community Affairs at Optimum. “This contest not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Hispanic Americans but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of their significant contributions to our communities. We are proud to support and uplift these voices.”

In addition to the Grand Prize winners, Honorable Mentions were awarded to a dozen finalists in both the middle and high school categories. Educators who encouraged their students to participate also received special recognition, with gifts awarded to those who submitted the highest number of essays.

A live virtual celebration event, moderated by News 12’s Elly Morillo, was held on Tuesday, December 10, to honor Agustina and the other winners, as well as the educators who played a vital role in inspiring their students. This event will continue Optimum and Univision Foundation’s mission of celebrating the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced our country.

Optimum remains committed to supporting the communities it serves and fostering opportunities for education and cultural appreciation. To view the full list of finalists or learn more about the Hispanic Heritage Essay Contest, visit www.Optimum.com/hhm.

Letter to the Editor: Residents Demand Accountability After Mayor Barberio Skips Drone Briefing

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Dec 22, 2024

Dear Editor:

I just heard today that our Parsippany Mayor James Barberio missed the recent pivotal briefing conducted by the FBI about drone activity over the Northern NJ area. He knows many of his constituents have seen the drones and are scared.

This meeting was only open to elected mayors. Our full-time employed mayor should have prioritized this serious matter of public safety. A competent leader would have sent a representative to any other events held at this time and ensured our township’s concerns were heard at today’s meeting, attended by Mayors throughout Morris County and around the state.

Mayor Barberio’s decision to skip this briefing sends a clear message: our community’s safety is not his top priority. I have requested that Councilperson Justin Musella bring this to the attention of the other council members to ensure Parsippany is never left out of critical discussions affecting our residents.

Concerned residents of Rainbow Lakes

Morris County Students Take on NASA’s App Development Challenge

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Dec 21, 2024

Morris-County-Vocational — Stratton Jelley, Pranav Pramod, Neil Kumaran, Ryan Khieu, Emanuel Wertman, Nathan O'Brien

MORRIS COUNTY — Students from the Academy for Computer & Information Sciences, located at the Morris County School of Technology in Denville, are reaching for the stars—literally. This school year, they embarked on an exciting STEM journey by participating in NASA’s App Development Challenge (ADC), one of eight Artemis Student Challenges that aim to engage students in deep space exploration missions.

The ADC, led by NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, is a highly competitive coding challenge under the NASA Office of STEM Engagement Next Gen STEM Project. It tasks student teams with solving real-world technical problems that support NASA’s Artemis missions. This year, students were challenged to research and design a computer application to visualize Artemis II, NASA’s first crewed mission on its path to establishing a sustainable presence on the Moon. The app will assist with mission planning and training activities, a crucial step in humanity’s return to lunar exploration.

The project is developed in collaboration with NASA’s Space Communication and Navigation (SCaN) team, which oversees space communication activities supporting more than 100 missions. SCaN’s work includes managing NASA’s Near Space and Deep Space Networks, advancing cutting-edge technologies such as optical and quantum communications, and creating an integrated space communications architecture to enable exploration programs through 2040.

A 10-Week Journey with NASA

From October 2 to December 11, 2024, students engaged in a rigorous 10-week challenge. They interacted with NASA coders and engineers through live virtual events and office hours. Their progress was evaluated by NASA scientists and engineers via video submissions and interviews. Top-performing teams will be selected for a culminating event at Johnson Space Center.

By participating in the ADC, these “Artemis Generation” students are actively contributing to NASA’s mission to land the first woman and the first person of color on the Moon’s surface.

An Academy Dedicated to Excellence

The Academy for Computer & Information Sciences is part of the Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD), offering a comprehensive Career & Technical Education (CTE) program. The academy provides in-depth instruction in computer programming, network security, software engineering, and other fields, preparing students for post-secondary education and careers in computer science.

MCVSD’s academy programs allow students in grades 9-12 to explore specialized career pathways while meeting New Jersey’s academic requirements. These programs offer unique opportunities such as internships and earning college credit, providing students with a strong foundation for future success.

About the App Development Challenge

For more information about NASA’s App Development Challenge click here.

To learn about NASA’s Space Communication and Navigation (SCaN) click here.

For details on MCVSD programs click here.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education to Hold Reorganization Meeting

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Dec 21, 2024

Frank-Calabria — Frank A. Calabria Education Center

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education has announced its first meeting of the year, scheduled to take place on Tuesday, January 7, at the Dr. Frank A. Calabria Education Center, 292 Parsippany Road. The meeting, which begins at 6:00 p.m., will serve as both a reorganization session and a regular meeting.

The agenda for the evening includes critical items such as reorganization of the Board, personnel matters, the awarding of bids, payment of bills, and the transfer of funds, alongside other general business items. These topics are expected to set the tone for the Board’s operations in the coming year.

Community members can also access the Superintendent’s Bulletin, which outlines additional details and updates, by visiting the Board of Education’s official website at Superintendent’s Bulletins.

The Board has indicated that action may be taken on these agenda items, as well as other matters that may arise after the publication of the notice. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in the governance process to stay informed about developments affecting the Parsippany-Troy Hills school district.

This important meeting not only marks the start of the Board’s work for the new year but also reflects its ongoing commitment to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and the education of Parsippany’s youth.

Sherrill Announces 2024 NJ-11 Heroes

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Dec 21, 2024

MORRIS COUNTY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) announced 25 members of the NJ-11 community chosen to be honored as 2024 Heroes.

Residents were encouraged to nominate everyday heroes in their lives to show that our community is grateful for all of their work. There was an outpouring of submissions from the community and heroes were selected based on the information provided by the individual that nominated them. All 2024 Heroes live or work in NJ-11, and they will receive a congressional certificate recognizing their contributions to the community.

“Each year, my office and I receive so many incredible submissions for our annual heroes program. This year was no different. I am moved by all of the New Jerseyans who are making a difference in the lives of others. There were inspiring submissions from throughout the district and this year’s group of heroes includes teachers, community leaders, volunteers, veterans, students, and more. All of our heroes are neighbors who we are grateful for this holiday season,” said Rep. Sherrill.

NJ-11’s 2024 Heroes are:

Connie Alexis-Laona, Montclair
Joann Carroll, Chatham
Mia Davenport, Hanover Township
Jodi Eisner, Livingston
Julie Gross, Glen Ridge
Maddie Guthrie, Montclair
Robert Hanna, Little Falls
Kathryn Hardin, Boonton
James Hark Jr., Cedar Knolls
Alfonso Izzi, Wayne
Saanvi Kulkarni, Livingston
Debra Leon, Morristown
Dr. Marie Leone Meyer, Montclair
Orlando Miranda, Picatinny
Doreen Monks, Livingston
Mike Post, Bloomfield
Lake Parsippany Fire Department, Parsippany
Nick Santinelli, Livingston
Alma Schneider, Montclair
George Schulz, Woodland Park
Sally Simonfay, Chatham
Barbara Small, Madison
Henry Struble, Pompton Plains
Bryn Whittle, Montclair
Wayne Township First Aid Squad, Wayne

2024 Heroes and their inspiring stories from our readership area:

Kathryn Hardin, Boonton – Nominated by Adriane – “In 2024 Mrs. Hardin celebrated 50 years as a volunteer on the Boonton Kiwanis First Aid Squad. She is an EMT and Quartermaster at the Squad House and never ceases to go over and above, even during the height of the pandemic. Community members say her calming, professional demeanor is a gift to our community. She defines a hero in countless ways and is a mentor to younger squad members. She never misses the opportunity to help others.”

Barbara Small, Madison – Nominated by Robert – “Barbara has been on the Board of the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris, Inc. for over 10 years and currently serves as its President. As Chief Volunteer Officer she has been a tireless advocate who has generously donated her time, talent, and treasure. She has been a fierce advocate for individuals with mental illness, children exposed to trauma, and individuals suffering from addiction. Prior to her retirement Barbara was the CEO of a supportive employment agency committed to securing competitive employment for people with disabilities. Earlier in her career she worked for organizations that advocated for and provided treatment for those afflicted with AIDS. Barbara is highly respected and admired by her colleagues on the Board and staff at the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris. Her quiet and dignified leadership makes a difference every day.”

Mia Davenport, Hanover Township – Nominated by Mark – “Mia was the first employee hired by the Rose House more than twenty years ago. The Rose House provides residential support for adults with developmental disabilities. She managed their first group and was subsequently promoted Director, where she supervises all independent living consumers. Mia set the tone for all Rose House staff, delivering and demanding the warmest, most supportive services.”

Lake Parsippany Fire Department, Parsippany – Nominated by Lorrie – “They are 100% volunteers as long as our town has been here and they are committed and dedicated to keeping it that way no matter if they are short-staffed, under-funded, tired or sick. They keep the ‘community’ in our close community and keep our taxes down by sacrificing all this, to boot. They actively recruit although with mostly disappointing results which puts them even more in demand. These under-appreciated people are a priceless asset to our community. They are truly a treasure.”

To read about each of the 2024 Heroes and their inspiring stories, click here.

Santa Claus and Kiwanis Club Bring Holiday Cheer to Parsippany Child Day Care Center

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Dec 21, 2024

Parsippany-Day-Care — Five-year-old Aysha Reyes beams with joy as she shares her Christmas wish list with Santa during the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany's annual Breakfast with Santa event.

PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, December 14, Santa Claus made a special stop at the Parsippany Child Day Care Center, accompanied by the dedicated members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. This heartwarming annual event brought together children and their families for a festive breakfast with Santa, spreading holiday cheer and creating unforgettable memories.

Santa delighted the children by chatting with them individually, asking about their Christmas wishes, and humorously inquiring whether they belonged on the naughty or nice list. The room buzzed with excitement as kids eagerly shared their hopes for the holiday season.

Parsippany Mayor James Barberio and Council Vice President Frank Neglia join in the holiday festivities, spreading cheer at the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany’s annual Breakfast with Santa event.

Parsippany Mayor James Barberio expressed his appreciation for the event, saying, “The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany organized this event is what makes this season so great. Seeing how happy children were to meet and eat with Santa brought me back to when I was a child meeting Santa! The excitement and joy in the air were profound!”

Kiwanis Club President Doreen Brennan and volunteer Sandra Neglia work together to ensure every guest is taken care of, handing out plates, napkins, and utensils during the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany’s annual Breakfast with Santa event.

More than 180 guests enjoyed a delectable breakfast that included scrambled eggs, turkey sausage, pancakes, bagels, yogurt, donuts, and muffins, generously served by Kiwanis Club volunteers. The festive meal added a delicious touch to the morning, making it a culinary treat for everyone in attendance.

Joe Jannarone, Jr. shows off his culinary skills, flipping pancakes to perfection during the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany’s annual Breakfast with Santa event.

Debbie and Bob Young graciously serve breakfast to guests, spreading holiday cheer at the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany’s annual Breakfast with Santa event.

Adding to the joy, each child received a thoughtful gift, provided by the Kiwanis Club members, making the event even more memorable. Linda Mlynarski, Executive Director of the Parsippany Child Day Care Center, shared her gratitude: “We were very excited to be able to share this highly anticipated, annual event with not only our families that attend Parsippany Child Day Care Center but also with our United In Care families. It was a very successful event, and the families were very grateful. Thank you to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany for sponsoring this event.”

Members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany gather around Santa Claus, celebrating the success of their annual Breakfast with Santa event and spreading holiday joy to the community.

The Kiwanis Club’s generosity extended beyond the children of the Parsippany Day Care Center to include families from the United In Care’s District 11 Child Care Alliance (UIC). This network supports local home-based childcare providers across Morris County as part of a pilot program administered by the United Way of Northern New Jersey. The initiative focuses on enhancing access to affordable, high-quality, and flexible child care for families throughout New Jersey.

By sponsoring and organizing this event, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany not only created a magical day for children but also reinforced its commitment to supporting families and fostering community connections.

Cassara Grasso and Shaun Astorga share a festive moment with Santa Claus during the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany’s annual Breakfast with Santa event.

Parsippany PAL Hosts Winter STEM Classes for Young Innovators

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Dec 21, 2024

stem-fair — File Photo. Photo is a generic representation of the event and used for illustration purposes only.

PARSIPPANY — This winter, young minds in Parsippany are invited to dive into the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with hands-on learning and creative exploration. The Parsippany PAL will host the 2025 Winter STEM Classes, designed to inspire curiosity and innovation among elementary school students.

The program, powered by STEM Builders, will run every Wednesday evening from January 22 through February 26, 2025, at the Parsippany PAL Center. With a focus on “play with a purpose,” the program offers engaging projects that encourage critical thinking and teamwork in a fun, supportive environment.

Two sessions are available to cater to different age groups:

Grades 1-3: Time to be announced.
Grades 4-5: 6:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.

The cost for residents is $139, while non-residents are welcome for an additional $10 fee. Families are encouraged to register by January 15, 2025, to secure their spot and avoid a $25 late fee, which applies after January 1, 2025.

“Programs like these are essential for fostering a love of STEM from a young age,” said a representative from Parsippany PAL. “By engaging children in hands-on activities, we’re preparing them for future success in an increasingly tech-driven world.”

Registration is now open at www.parsippanypal.org. Spaces are limited, so early registration is recommended.

Video: Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – December 17, 2024

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Dec 21, 2024

Council---2024 — Councilman Justin Musella, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., and Councilman Matt McGrath

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council held its meeting on Tuesday, December 17, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting occurred in the Council Chambers at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard within the Parsippany Municipal Building.

Any individual who is qualified as a disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids, such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder, for the meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request an auxiliary aid.

Click here to download the agenda.

Click here for the 2024 calendar.

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

Video: Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – December 16, 2024

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Dec 21, 2024

PARSIPPANY — PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – December 16, 2024.

Click here for the agenda.

Video: Beyond the Bell: Dual Enrollment

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Dec 21, 2024

PARSIPPANY — Dr. Robert S. Sutter hosts a discussion on “Dual Enrollment” in Episode 12 of Beyond the Bell: Inside Our District. Joining him are Bryan McCourt, Coordinating Supervisor for 6-12 Mathematics and Business, and Sarah Townsend, Coordinating Supervisor for 6-12 Language Arts and 6-8 Media.

The episode delves into the benefits and opportunities of the dual enrollment program, which allows high school students to earn both high school and college credits, better preparing them for future academic and career success.

Parsippany Houses of Worship Unify in Thanksgiving

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Dec 21, 2024

Interfaith-Thanksgiving — Rev. Dr. Stacie Turk of the First Baptist Community Church, Rev. Don Bragg of Parsippany Presbyterian, Rabbi Moshe Rudin of Adath Shalom, Rev. Marissa van der Volk of Parsippany Methodist, Cantor Dr. Bruce Ruben of Temple Beth Am, Deacon Len Deo of St. Ann Church, Warden Bonnie Keith of St. Gregorys Episcopal, who hosted the event, Rev. Psomi Psomas-Jackloski of St. Andrew's Lutheran and Mr. Bala of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh organization.

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Interfaith Council hosted its annual Thanksgiving gathering with over one hundred participants from Parsippany houses of worship. Clergy shared teachings from traditions from Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Judaism.

An interfaith choir organized by St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church musical director Don Ehrmann shared songs across the spectrum of American religious life. Following the gathering, the combined congregations prepared food packages with the leadership of the Parsippany High School Key Club (chaired by Bonnie Sturm of Kiwanis) to be shared at the Parsippany Food Bank.

Rabbi Moshe Rudin, the interfaith group’s coordinator said, “So many people shared with me and other clergy how much this gathering nurtures their soul- neighbors of every faith standing together in unity in these fractured times is incredibly powerful.”

Clergy of the Parsippany Interfaith Council share a moment at the annual Interfaith Gathering, held this year at St. Gregory Episcopal Church on November 26. The gathering was dedicated to St. Gregory’s pastor, the Reverand Aaron Oliver who is serving his country abroad in the National Guard.

Parsippany School District Expands 2025 Senior Internship Program

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Dec 21, 2024

zen-dental — Zen Dental is proud to support the next generation of dental professionals through the Parsippany Senior Internship Program

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills School District announces the expansion of the Senior Internship Program for the 2024-2025 school year, providing an exciting opportunity for senior students at both Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School.

This program has doubled, to allow 100 students from each high school to complete an internship in their desired career field during the final five weeks of the school year, from May 19, 2025, to June 19, 2025.

The Senior Internship Program is designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the real world by providing students with hands-on experience in professional settings. Each student will be required to work a minimum of 80 hours at an internship site, gaining valuable insights into their future career paths.

This program aims to provide students with practical skills, professional networking opportunities, and a deeper understanding of potential career paths, ensuring they are better prepared for life after graduation.

“The Senior Internship Program is an invaluable opportunity for our students to apply what they have learned in school to real-world environments,” said Liz O’Boyle, Internship Coordinator at Parsippany Hills. “By connecting students with local businesses, organizations, and professionals, we are helping to foster a deeper sense of career readiness and community engagement.”

As part of this initiative, the Parsippany-Troy Hills School District is reaching out to local businesses, community organizations, and professionals to support the program by offering mentorship and internship opportunities. By participating as mentors, local professionals can directly impact the future of young people in our community, helping them develop essential skills, gain work experience, and establish connections that can help them throughout their careers. In addition, businesses and organizations can benefit by fostering relationships with local talent to build a pipeline of future employees.

According to Chrissy Russell, Internship Coordinator at Parsippany High School, “We are excited to partner with local businesses and organizations to build upon the success of this program. We encourage local employers, and business owners to take part in shaping the next generation of leaders by offering internships that provide meaningful experiences.”
Local businesses, community organizations, and professionals interested in participating or learning more about Parsippany’s Senior Internship Program are encouraged to contact Chrissy Russell (CRussell@pthsd.net) and Liz O’Boyle (EOBoyle@pthsd.net) or complete this Google Form by clicking here.

Letter to the Editor: Mayor Questions My Attendance

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Dec 21, 2024

Dear Editor:

During the town council meeting on December 17, Mayor Barberio questioned my motives for attending town council meetings. The answer is obvious, I am concerned about the direction Parsippany is moving in and I have the right to speak.

Many years ago I first met you at a mutual friend’s house when you were first running for office. Dr. Weisberg asked me to come and meet you because he thought you had good ideas for Parsippany. I admit that I liked what you had to say back then and I even voted for you twice. However, since then, you have changed, when I see you at council meetings I do not recognize the person I met many years ago. Mr. Mayor, you need to take a look in the mirror. You now act as a bully at council meetings which is easy to do when you always have the last word and only answer questions that you choose to address. The other questions often go unanswered or the famous “we will get back to you on that” reply is your answer. Most replies never come or are repeatedly postponed. So yes it is easy to look smart when no follow-up questions are permitted even when you pose a question to residents in attendance or make comments about their motives.

So please do not attempt to imply that I am going to meetings for any reason other than the fact that I am a concerned resident. Situations within Parsippany have changed as they do elsewhere, that is why I attend the council meetings when the opportunity allows me to do so. I have been upfront with my opposition regarding PILOT Programs, however, that does not make me a bad person or that I am wrong. Mr. Mayor was the amount of residents that turned out on December 28, 2023, to say they were against the PILOTS lost on you?

As for your stated intentions of being a regular guest on the Bill Spadia talk show and then later stating your door was open for discussions seems disingenuous to me. If you have time to speak on the radio whenever given the opportunity, why was I told your calendar was booked solid for the next three months? This happened about eighteen to twenty-two months ago. You didn’t have fifteen spare minutes for three months?

In closing, do not vilify others who challenge you on things in your agenda. We also have the best interests of Parsippany in mind. Simply because you have lived in town forever does not mean others do not have better ideas than you, and it certainly does not entitle you to a lifetime job as mayor.

Richard Suarez

Letter to the Editor: This Parsippany Mayor is an Embarrassment

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Dec 21, 2024

Dear Editor:

On a recent Bill Spadea radio show, Mayor Jamie Barberio went on a tirade, badmouthing a councilman who had rightfully called him out for being absent from this week’s State Police drone briefing—a briefing attended by approximately 180 mayors from across the state.

Embarrassed and angered after being caught red-handed by his constituents, Barberio frantically took to the airwaves, attempting to deflect attention from his well-documented ineptitude and laziness by smearing someone else. Unfortunately, Spadea allowed an arrogant and lazy mayor to hijack his platform for a smear campaign against a councilman who fights for honest and responsive government. Your program is built on exposing no-show officials, yet you give a pass to this no-show mayor from Parsippany.

During the interview, Barberio dared to claim, “Everything is going great in Parsippany with regards to drones and stuff like that. I get briefed regularly on the drone situation here. And, um, we hear nothing new, nothing whatsoever new. Um, you know, a whole bunch of mayors, we, as we speak, almost every morning through text messaging and talking and stuff like that. We get the same answers.”

This incoherent response from Barberio highlights his cluelessness and indifference. Jamie Barberio is the only full-time, six-figure-earning mayor in Morris County. Yet, you would never know it from his performance. Compare him to Pequannock Mayor Ryan Heard, who, despite leading one of the county’s smallest municipalities, has emerged as the face of leadership on the national drone issue. Heard is calling out state and federal authorities for their failure to inform and protect residents. Meanwhile, Barberio continues to sit idly by, passively receiving “updates” via phone and text messages.

I agree that the mayor of any city or town cannot take direct action but in the case of Parsippany, our mayor decided that the desire of his residents to be informed was not compelling enough to attend a meeting hosted by the New Jersey State Police and the Department of Homeland Security. Regardless of how that meeting turned out, his failure to attend sent a clear message to his constituents that he didn’t care about their legitimate concerns. His decision to attend a holiday party while almost 200 of his fellow mayors were attending this meeting is a slap in the face to every resident of this town.

Thankfully, the residents of Parsippany have started to rally behind Jamie Barberio’s opponent, who has emerged as an empathetic and ethical leader who appropriately calls out our truant mayor during these dangerous times.

Dennis Letts

Inside Parsippany’s Newest Gem: A Five-Bedroom Masterpiece

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Dec 21, 2024