PARSIPPANY — Back in 1984, in a local backyard with only a couple of teams, the idea of Wifflemania was born. Since those initial backyard games, the event has grown exponentially over the past 40 years. During those years, the games have moved from that backyard to locations in Knoll Park, Manor Park, and now Smith Field. In addition, the league has expanded from those initial teams to include now two leagues, an American and a National League, comprised of 14 different teams each.
Of course, the players, whose teams are comprised of a mix of young and not-so-young teammates, come out for the fun and competitive nature of the games, but the bottom line is that Wifflemania is a charitable event. All proceeds from the lively and well-attended event go to various local charities, as they have for the past 40 years.
MVP of Wifflemania XL, Jeremy DeCotiis of New Era.
Wifflemania has long been passionate about Nicky “The Commish” Jannarone, whose hard work, commitment, and effort come to life every year during this highly anticipated sporting event. The outing is sponsored by the Parsippany Athletic League (PAL), Morris County Order of the Sons of Italy Lodge 2561, and local businesses and restaurants.
On Saturday, June 15th, the crowds came out, set up chairs and tents, and cheered on their favorite team, all while mingling and reconnecting with friends and neighbors. As an added treat, hot dogs, hamburgers, or Italian sausage, freshly cooked right off the grill, was readily available courtesy of the Sons of Italy. Food was free to players and fans, but a small charitable donation to the cause was also appreciated. It would not be easy to imagine a more positive, community-minded event reflective of a strong and healthy commonality than Wifflemania.
The games, which follow a “March Madness” elimination style, began at 10:00 a.m. The final championship game ended around 6:30 p.m. Fortunately, it was a weather-perfect day, with temperatures around 80 and a very mild, comfortable breeze. Nick Jannarone expertly managed to keep the games moving at a lively pace, with three teams competing continuously. Age, physical condition, and skill level may have varied significantly, but it was evident that everyone on and off the field was having a great time.
Wifflemania XL Champions-New Era: Austin DeCotiis, Jeremy DeCotiis, Zach Doumas, and Matt Ajaj.
The last two teams standing at the end of the day were New ERA (National League) and Harry Ballers (American League). This was a championship rematch from 2022, and New Era was going for their 5th title (a new Wifflemania record) while Harry Ballers were seeking their 2nd championship. While games last three innings, the championship game goes for five. It ended up being an exciting rematch, and things began to look dire for New Era, as the Harry Ballers bats got hot, and they gained a 4-run lead with an inning to go. Never to give up, New Era rallied and tied the game in the bottom of the 5th, causing the game to go into extra innings. Notably, this was the first extra-inning championship game in 17 years. A dramatic walk-off home run by ERA’s team Captain, Austin DeCotiis, who was also awarded MVP, sealed the deal.
It was a great day, an exciting game, and, most importantly, a home run for charity. Congratulations to New ERA teammates Austin DeCotiis, Jeremy DeCotiis, Matt Ajaj, and Zach Doumas on their hard-won victory.
Commissioner Jannarone is already working on it, and everyone is looking forward to Wifflemania XLI.
Why won’t Mayor Barberio hold a Town Hall with Parsippany residents and provide them with an opportunity to ask him questions, express their concerns, and share their ideas?
Why won’t Mayor Barberio take the time to listen to his constituents without getting defensive and aggressively accusative towards any resident who asks him for information and/or action?
A couple of possible answers to these questions might include Mayor Barberio’s apparent lack of interest or basic understanding of the multiple safety, financial, and quality of life issues that face Parsippany residents.
Or perhaps the Mayor believes that showing up at photo ops, cutting opening banners, and handing out declarations are the Mayor’s primary responsibilities.
But then again, maybe Mayor Barberio may believe that being at the beck and call of out-of-town developers and their greedy lawyers is where the focus of his job should be
Who knows?
But what is known is that Mayor Barberio’s recent forum for Indian American Parsippany residents and this week’s Mayor’s Round Table only reinforced the growing belief that the Mayor is either too afraid or too compromised to engage in an open and frank dialogue with Parsippany residents.
With the Republican primary on the political horizon, hopefully, a candidate who is neither afraid nor compromised will emerge to lead Parsippany into the future.
PARSIPPANY — Ashwin Vaithiyalingam recently attained the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, an accomplishment celebrated at the Eagle Court of Honor held at All Saints Academy on Saturday, June 1. Earning the rank of Eagle Scout requires dedication and a steadfast commitment to the principles of Scouting, a testament to its difficulty, with only about 6% of Scouts achieving it. Since its inception in 1911, over two million Scouts have reached this significant milestone. He is officially Troop 72’s 103rd Eagle Scout!
“Many people wonder whether years of scouting are worth it—freezing camping nights and dozens of eagle-required merit badges. My answer is always “yes,” said Ashwin.
Scout Rahul Pemmasani opened the ceremony with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
The presentation of the Eagle Scout badge is an important event. It is the goal for which a Scout has worked for many years, an occasion for pride and joy, a time for serious contemplation, and the culmination of the Scout’s efforts and leadership. The Eagle Scout Award is the highest and most coveted rank in Scouting, the last major step in the advancement program. Fewer than six percent of all Scouts in the United States reach the Eagle Scout rank.
The requirements for Eagle are: •Be active in your troop and patrol for at least six months as a Life Scout. •Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath and Law daily. •Earn 21 merit badges, including the 14 that are required: First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in Society, Citizenship in the World, Communications, Personal Fitness, Emergency Preparedness, Environmental Science, Personal Management, Swimming, Camping, and Family Life. •Serve actively in an approved position of responsibility for six months after becoming a Life Scout. •Plan, develop, and lead others in carrying out a service project worthy of an Eagle Scout. •Take part in a Scoutmaster conference. •Appear before a board of review of prominent persons and satisfy them that the Scout has done their best to understand and live up to the Scout Oath and Law and, in all ways, qualify for the Eagle Scout Award.
Brian Patoir lights the candles, symbolizing Ashwin’s “Trail to Eagle,” as Rahul Pemmasani narrates.
Ashwin’s Trail to Eagle
Scout June 6, 2018 Tenderfoot March 27, 2019 Second Class October 23, 2019 First Class June 10, 2020 Star Scout March 15, 2022 Life Scout February 16, 2023 Eagle Scout December 29, 2023
Ashwin Vaithiyalingam Reflects on His Scouting Journey to Eagle Scout
Ashwin Achieves Notable Milestone with 33 Merit Badges Earned:Archery, Chess, Camping, Art, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in Society, Citizenship in the World, Climbing, Communications, Cooking, Electricity, Emergency Preparedness, Environmental Science, Family Life, Fingerprinting, First Aid, Geology, Kayaking, Law, Leatherwork, Metalwork, Mammal Study, Nature, Personal Fitness, Personal Management, Plant Science, Public Health, Railroading, Rowing, Scholarship, Swimming, and Wood Carving.
Ashwin places the “Dad Pin” on his father during the ceremony.In gratitude for all the support and encouragement, Ashwin places the Eagle mother’s pin on his mom.Mom is all smiles as she tightens the new neckerchief on Ashwin while dad looks on.Mom fastens the newly earned Eagle pin on Ashwin.Mom is moved to tears by Ashwin’s accomplishments.
Ashwin’s Eagle Project involved planning, coordination, and much effort from the initial concept to the final installation. Ashwin demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and successfully rallied a team of volunteers to bring his vision to life. The garden has various elements, including pollinator plants to attract bees and butterflies, perennial plants, murals, pathways, and other elements. From a tranquil reading area to an outdoor learning space, this garden showcases Ashwin’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Ashwin’s Eagle Project involved planning, coordination, and much effort from the initial concept to the final installation.
Ashwin said, “When I first joined Troop 72, I was nervous. I wouldn’t say I liked the idea of wearing a uniform and sleeping outside, and I, most importantly, hated the idea of interacting with bugs. I remember my first summer camping trip. My mom was super nervous about sending me away to the woods, and I was scared of being near bugs. Yet, Mr. Sonzogni promised my parents that Boy Scout summer camp is the perfect opportunity to learn and grow as a student, citizen, and scout. With Mr. Sonzognis’s encouragement, my parents confidently sent me to camp. Once I reached camp, I didn’t know what to expect. The green tents filled with slugs and spiders were scary, but I slowly got used to it. I began enjoying summer camp. When I started completing merit badges, swimming in the lake, and spending days in the sun.”
Mr. Sonzogni recognized Ashwin’s leadership in scouting.
Mr. Sonzogni recognized Ashwin’s leadership in scouting. He recommended the National Youth Leadership Training Camp, where Ashwin pushed himself further by working with a diverse group of scouts to camp and develop personal skills. After completing the course, Ashwin was offered a position to teach the next year to scouts. Ashwin immersed himself in the monthly development meetings. He enhanced his ability to lead others and meet new faces.
Ashwin was student government president, campaigning every year and serving four years at the Morris County School of Technology. He will graduate in June and pursue higher education at Emory University in the fall.
Ashwin Vaithiyalingam possesses top skills in film editing, administration, project management, and cinematography.
Frank Cahill, an Executive Board Member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, presents Ashwin with a “Certificate of Achievement” and a gift card to a Chamber member. Additionally, Cahill, the Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development, presented Ashwin with an envelope filled with gift certificates and complimentary offers from local merchants. Mayor James Barberio congratulates Ashwin and gives him an American Flag and other gifts.Ms. Marianne Burke, Womans Club of Parsippany, congratulates Ashwin and presents him with a gift. Frank Cahill, a member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, presents Ashwin with a “Certificate of Achievement” along with a check.Council Vice President Frank Neglia congratulates Ashwin Vaithiyalingam on his outstanding achievement of earning the Eagle Scout rank.Councilman Justin Musella, a graduate of Emory College, congratulates Ashwin Vaithiyalingam on earning the prestigious Eagle Scout rank. Ashwin will also be attending Emory College in the fall.Sra. Rocio Felix, a Spanish teacher at Morris County School of Technology, has been a significant influence on Ashwin’s educational journey.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, July 2024.
PARSIPPANY — Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter was honored at the annual breakfast of Parsippany-Troy Hills School District.
The shelter proudly supports the district’s incredible Work-Based Learning program, which provides students with invaluable hands-on experience and skills. The shelter extends a big thank you to the district for recognizing this important partnership and looks forward to continuing to nurture the next generation of compassionate, skilled professionals.
Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter is at 194 Route 10 West, East Hanover. Their mission is to provide exceptional care for homeless animals, promote adoption, and support pet owners in the community. The shelter is dedicated to ensuring the well-being of all animals, finding loving homes for those in need, and educating the public about responsible pet ownership.
PARSIPPANY — During the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township meeting on Tuesday, June 11, Mayor James Barberio presented Parsippany Township employee John Georges with a plaque commemorating his astounding 50 years of service at Town Hall.
John, who began his tenure with the township on June 18, 1974, is often regarded as the unofficial Deputy Mayor of the Municipal Building and knows everyone by name. In addition to his role in the mailroom, John helps new employees acclimate by introducing them to everyone with a short story or anecdote.
“I’m so proud to be able to honor John tonight,” said Mayor Barberio. “What an amazing accomplishment this is! John has always provided me with interesting insights and advice. He always greets everyone with a smile and has truly impacted the community. Thank you for all that you do!”
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County recently welcomed veterans and service providers at the Morris County Veterans Services Office for a meeting hosted by the New Jersey SOS Veterans Stakeholders Group. The event aimed to foster networking and better understand veterans’ support needs across the region.
The meeting saw over 60 participants, including representatives from the offices of U.S. Rep. Tom Kean, U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, and the N.J. State Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Organizations such as Catholic Charities Diocese of Paterson, Veterans Affairs Healthcare, Welcome Home Vets of NJ, Morris Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill Industries of Greater New York & Northern New Jersey, Inc., and the Mental Health Association of NJ were also present.
“Supporting our veterans is crucial to honor their sacrifices and ensure their well-being,” said Commissioner John Krickus, a Marine Corps veteran. “While holidays often spotlight their service, we want our veterans to know that Morris County is here throughout the year providing essential services for their transition to civilian life, whether it be access to healthcare, employment opportunities, training, or mental health support.”
Christine Hellyer, Director of the Office of Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming, and Jessica Tomalo, Program Coordinator for the Morris County Office of Veterans Services, updated county veterans services. In the past two years, Morris County has expanded its Veterans Services Office to include a fourth full-time Veterans Services Officer position, which is currently being recruited, and a seasonal intern who recently joined and participated in the event.
“In 2022, Morris County allocated $350,000 to veteran services, and last year contributed an additional $300,000 to address the growing demand for mental health, shelter placement, transportation services, meal assistance, counseling, legal services, and other veteran services currently being provided by the Morris County Human Services Department,” Krickus said.
A new federal Veteran Center Community Access Point (CAP) opened in May at the Morris County VSO at 540 West Hanover Avenue in Morris Township. Morris County volunteered to share and improve its county VSO space to host the VA CAP.
Two VA counselors from the federal Bloomfield Vet Center are available to provide services every Thursday by appointment. Veterans interested in these services should call the Bloomfield Vet Center at (973) 748-0980 to schedule an appointment.
Additionally, a veterans appreciation event is being planned for later this summer at a park in Morris County. Sign up for the Morris County weekly email newsletter for updates about this and other veteran events throughout the county.
PARSIPPANY — Theo is a 3-year-old Parsippany boy diagnosed in March 2024 with an Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumor, which is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that is most commonly found in children under the age of three.
Theo, lovingly referred to as Theo Bear, is an energetic, playful, and loving little boy. He has been incredibly strong and brave through two craniotomies (brain surgeries) and two rounds of intensive chemotherapy thus far, with three more to come over the next three months.
Theo has been treated by a wonderful team of medical professionals from Morristown Memorial Hospital, The Valerie Fund of Morristown Memorial, and Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone in Manhattan.
Three-year-old Theo Nieglos
“The Nieglos family is extremely thankful for and appreciates the enormous generosity of the Blue Collar Worker’s Union of Parsippany, the Sons of Italy, and all of their family, friends, and acquaintances who have offered their support during this difficult time,” said Jenn Nieglos.
“When I got the news of Theo and his family, I knew I could count on my union members to make a difference. I didn’t know it would be this incredible. I want to thank everyone who volunteered their time, donated to the cause, and came to attend the event. I would also like to thank all the businesses in town who donated. A big thank you to my wife, Allison, who stepped up and worked alongside John Pirnie, his wife Dana, and Mike Smith to collect almost 90 baskets in a week and a half. And a special thank you to the Sons of Italy for providing the meal. It is moments like these that I am proud to be President of the Parsippany Blue Collar Workers Union. We worked hard to keep the Pride in Parsippany. Stay strong, Theo-Bear,” said Patrick Campbell.
The Sons of Italy are honored to support Theo Bear and his incredible family during this difficult time. Our community’s strength lies in our unity, and we are committed to doing everything we can to help. Together, we can make a difference and show that Parsippany stands strong with Theo,” said Joe Jannarone, Jr., President of Sons of Italy.
Members of the Parsippany Blue Collar Workers Union stand united in support of Theo Bear, holding a banner that reads, ‘Working hard to keep the Pride in Parsippany!’ Their dedication and solidarity are evident as they unite to support the Nieglos family during these challenging times.
“I was one of the union members in charge of the fundraiser. I want to thank residents and local businesses for their support, and a huge thanks to my wife, Dana Pirnie, and Pat Campbell’s wife, Allison Campbell, for all of their hard work and effort in running the fundraiser,” said John Pirnie.
Community members gather in large numbers at a local event to support Theo Bear. The venue is filled with families and friends enjoying the event, adorned with silver balloons symbolizing hope and solidarity. The atmosphere is one of warmth and unity as everyone comes together to stand by the Nieglos family during their challenging journey.Many dedicated volunteers supported Theo Bear, showcasing the community’s strength and solidarity. Their hard work and generosity have made a significant impact during this challenging time for the Nieglos family.Many dedicated volunteers supported Theo Bear, showcasing the community’s strength and solidarity. Their hard work and generosity have made a significant impact during this challenging time for the Nieglos family.A heartfelt display of generosity: an array of gifts donated by the community to support Theo Bear and his family during their challenging time. Each contribution represents the love and solidarity of the Parsippany community.A heartfelt display of generosity: an array of gifts donated by the community to support Theo Bear and his family during their challenging time. Each contribution represents the love and solidarity of the Parsippany community.A heartfelt display of generosity: an array of gifts donated by the community to support Theo Bear and his family during their challenging time. Each contribution represents the love and solidarity of the Parsippany community.Theo Bear
A heartfelt gratitude to all the union members and their families who generously volunteered their time to ensure the success of this event. A special thank you goes to the Order Sons of Italy in America – Lodge 2561 for their incredible support in cooking and providing delicious food!
A special thanks to the following for stepping up to make this event a success.
•Par-Troy Little League East for sponsoring the 50/50. •Eccola Italian Bistro for providing all the beverages. •Red Barn Restaurant – Towaco and The Bread Gal Bakery for providing all the rolls and salad. •Ferraro’s Italian Food Specialties, Jefry’s Pizzería, Baldwin Pizza, Valentino’s Pizzeria, and •Bruno’s Italian Bistro for providing food for the event. •Pj Thurkauf from the UPS store for all the flyers and posters •Landmark Floral for donating roses. •Councilman Frank Neglia and Sandra Neglia, thank you for providing desserts and coffee. •Mayor James Barberio for his support and his donations.
Theo, as you fight like a bear, we are all here by your side. An entire community is standing behind you, praying and fighting with you!!!! We ask that everyone keep the Nieglos family in their thoughts and prayers.
Parsippany Blue Collar Workers thank everyone from the bottom of their hearts who contributed to this amazing event. This is what Parsippany is all about. It is amazing how a community can work together for a worthy cause.
My wife and I attended the Mayor’s Roundtable at the Sheraton in Parsippany. We have been following the controversial issue of the so-called Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program to redevelop the many empty office buildings in Parsippany.
We hoped to gain new insights from a moderated discussion among mayors of four nearby towns facing similar problems. What we got instead of an open discussion with an informed and neutral moderator was a pep rally led by a cheerleader, unanimous in their opinion that affordable, fair housing was an abomination led by horrible politicians in Trenton.
The mayors shared their tactics for fighting against court rulings meant to assure all New Jerseyans access to affordable housing in towns with good-paying jobs, but not one described their plan to provide good housing. One of them even likened his town to a business and low-income families as customers who would be money-losers for the town.
There was one surprising moment when the mayor of East Hanover said that his town never used a PILOT to redevelop business properties, as he found that businesses were willing to invest in his town without the extra tax break provided by the PILOT program. Parsippany’s Mayor Barberio has said that East Hanover would win the competition for business investment with Parsippany if we didn’t offer them a PILOT.
As promised, Monday night’s “roundtable” was not engaging or insightful. We learned that several local mayors were self-satisfied politicians devoted to keeping low-income people out of their towns and not interested in hearing the audience’s questions or opinions.
Parsippany Mayor’s most recent was an absolute farce and a waste of township time and money. By now, one should be surprised that Barberio is desperate to undo the 30-year damage he has caused the town and the schools after he and his attorney, Mr. John Inglesino, rammed through his Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) programs on December 28th.
The Mayor advertised that he was addressing PILOTs at the meeting with his out-of-town guests, who did not share his enthusiasm for PILOTs. Even one of the Mayor from East Hanover said that he did not do them, and another from Hanover said he put a split for the Board of Education.
But, very little about PILOTs was even addressed by Barberio’s out-of-town buddies. And rightly so, because almost none of the Mayors had much positive to say about them. And if that is not enough, Barberio has a slew of municipal employees sit in the audience of this event to project vast “support” for his bad policies and programs. Who is paying for all the employees’ time outside of work hours? How much did we spend on the Sheraton Ballroom to promote him and gubernatorial candidate Bill Spadea? How much comp time does the township have for these employees? Barberio seems to have a penchant for wasting people’s time and taxpayers’ money with John Inglesino playing the Wizard of Oz behind the curtain–who, by the way, had a controversial warehouse application being held at the planning board at the same time as this roundtable. Coincidence or intentional?
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council has scheduled a meeting for Tuesday, June 11, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will occur in the Council Chambers at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard within the Parsippany Municipal Building.
Formal action may or may not be taken.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used 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.
Mayor James Barberio Council President Paul Carifi, Jr. Council Vice President Frank Neglia Councilman Justin Musella Councilman Matt McGrath Councilwoman Judy Hernandez
