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Post 249 American Legion to Host Pancake Breakfast

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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.

May Declared Mental Health Awareness Month

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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.

Parsippany to Honor Heroes with Memorial Day Parade on May 26

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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.

Celebrating 125 Years of Golf, Friendship, and Legacy at Mount Tabor Country Club

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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.

For more information, visit: www.mtccgolf.co

AB Marketing Group Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for New Parsippany Office

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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.

Parsippany Engineer Honored with Prestigious Global Award for Innovation in Healthcare Technology

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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.”

NJ Transit Strike Ends with Tentative Agreement

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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.

Honoring Robert Onufrick: Celebrating 50 Years of Volunteer Firefighting Service

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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.

Letter to the Editor: Councilman Musella Made a Strong Case for Change During Recent Debate

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Dear Editor:

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.

Amell Patel
Kamlesh Patel

2nd Hand Rose Thrift is Officially Closing

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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!

2nd Hand Rose Thrift Clearance Sale

Letter to the Editor: Republican Primary Debate Barberio’s False Contentions

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Dear Editor:

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.

Nicholas Homyak

Letter to the Editor: Mayor Discontinues Gay Pride Flag; Evades His Role on Flagpole 

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Dear Editor:

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? 

Nick Homyak

Are You Paying More Than You Should for Business Electricity?

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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.

source

Conduct a Business Energy Audit

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)

Business TypeAverage Usage (kWh/year)Average Bill (per year)Cheapest Fixed Tariff (per kWh)
Micro (1-9 employees)5,000 – 15,000£1,500 – £3,00023.1p
Small (10–49)15,000 – 30,000£3,100 – £5,40021.8p
Medium (50–249)30,000 – 65,000£6,000 – £11,30020.7p

Based on market stats and supplier rates.

Final Words

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.

Letter to the Editor: After Four Years of “Gonna,” It’s Time for Barberio to Be Gone

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Dear Editor:

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.  

Bob Crawford

Video: Parsippany-Troy Hills Republican Mayoral Debate

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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.

Video: Rockaway Meadow First Grade Play

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PARSIPPANY — Rockaway Meadow Elementary School First Grade Play.

Rainbow Lakes to Host Annual Memorial Day Events on Saturday, May 24

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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.

Letter to the Editor: A Disturbing Pattern: Parsippany Resident Details Political Harassment by Mayor’s Campaign

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Dear Editor:

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’s Abigail Bresalier Presents Mental Health Research at Muhlenberg College Dana Forum

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Abigail Bresalier

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.

Bresalier is expected to graduate this spring.

Letter to the Editor: Experienced Leadership Matters

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Dear Editor:

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.


Ray Santana

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