PARSIPPANY — Found dog! Found on Garfield Road i Lake Parsippany. Wearing a collar but no tags or microchip. Please call us at (973) 263-7083 if you recognize this dog!

NEWARK — Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill and Lieutenant Governor-elect Dale Caldwell announced that their inauguration ceremony will take place at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark. During the ceremony, the incoming administration will outline its priorities and vision for New Jersey.

“For more than a year, I’ve been up and down this state and am on a mission to deliver for all New Jerseyans — lower costs, a better future for our kids, and a more transparent and accountable state government,” Governor-elect Sherrill said. “Leadership means listening to the people about what keeps them up at night, and we will start my administration the same way we won this race — by listening and taking action for the people I serve. I couldn’t be more honored to be sworn in as your next governor and begin my administration in the Gateway City.”

Lt. Governor-elect Caldwell, who also serves as transition chair, said returning to Newark for the ceremony is especially meaningful. “As the founding executive director of the Newark Alliance, I’m always excited to come back,” he said. “I’m also forever grateful to the faith community in Newark that helped elect the first pastor to the office of lieutenant governor. Between my background as a pastor, educator, and small business owner, and Mikie’s history of service, we will bring a different kind of leadership to Trenton — focused on lowering costs, supporting small businesses, and standing up for the rights of all New Jerseyans.”

The announcement underscores Newark’s significance to the incoming administration. Governor-elect Sherrill’s first stop outside of Trenton after the election was in Newark, where she visited a local food bank to highlight her opposition to proposed federal cuts to food assistance programs. In November, Sherrill also drove the highest gubernatorial election turnout in Newark since 2005.

Local leaders praised the decision to host the inauguration in Essex County. Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. called the selection an honor, noting that Sherrill is only the second woman elected governor in New Jersey’s history. He said NJPAC’s world-class facilities make it an ideal venue to showcase Newark and Essex County.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka echoed those sentiments, calling it a high honor for the city. “As New Jersey’s largest city, Newark is an appropriate setting for such a momentous occasion,” Baraka said. “NJPAC, the crowning jewel of our downtown district, will shine bright on January 20 and showcase Newark’s radiance for all to see.”

The inauguration at NJPAC is expected to draw statewide attention, marking the formal start of the Sherrill-Caldwell administration and signaling a new chapter in New Jersey leadership.

MORRIS COUNTY — During the holiday season, Morris County distributed robotic companion pets to seniors living in county-supported housing as part of the “Joy for All” Companion Pet Program, sponsored by the Morris County Office on Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming and expanded this year to include the Morris County Housing Authority.

The Office on Aging partnered with the Housing Authority in 2025 to broaden the program’s reach to seniors residing in senior housing. As part of the expansion, the Housing Authority received 36 robotic companion pets, 26 of which have already been distributed to residents age 60 and older.

“Our aging residents are an essential part of Morris County, and their well-being is a top priority. We look forward to the comfort these companion pets will bring to our older neighbors — people who have contributed so much to our community,” said Commissioner Christine Myers, liaison to the Human Services Department.

The companion pet program was launched in 2024 to help reduce social isolation, loneliness and cognitive decline among older adults by providing the comfort and companionship of a pet without the responsibilities associated with caring for a live animal. In its first year, the program distributed 110 robotic companion pets to eligible residents and facilities throughout Morris County and partnered with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Project Lifesaver program.

The robotic cats and dogs are designed to respond to motion and touch, offering realistic behaviors such as purring, rolling over, barking and wagging their tails.

“The companion pets have been the focus of rigorous, peer-reviewed studies demonstrating their effectiveness in reducing loneliness and social isolation,” said Christine Hellyer, director of the Office on Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming. “Recipients often name their pets and keep them as long as they wish, forming meaningful emotional connections.”

The program is funded through the Aging American Rescue Plan. To qualify, recipients must be at least 60 years old, homebound, and either socially isolated or living with dementia or a similar cognitive condition.

PARSIPPANY — As December unfolds, Parsippany-Troy Hills transforms into a winter showcase of lights, decorations, and community spirit. From quiet residential streets to bustling commercial centers, the sights and sounds of Christmas can be found throughout the township, reflecting traditions both old and new.

Neighborhoods across Parsippany glow after sunset as families decorate their homes with colorful light displays, illuminated trees, and festive figures. Classic white lights line rooftops, while vibrant scenes featuring snowmen, reindeer, and Santa Claus bring smiles to passersby. In many areas, residents stroll or drive slowly through streets simply to take in the seasonal displays, a tradition that continues to bring neighbors together year after year.

Public spaces also reflect the holiday spirit. Municipal buildings, local shopping centers, and community gathering spots are adorned with wreaths, garland, and seasonal décor. Christmas trees stand proudly as symbols of unity and celebration, serving as backdrops for photos and quiet moments of reflection during the busy season.

Local businesses add their own festive touches, decorating storefront windows and entrances to welcome customers with holiday warmth. Inside, seasonal music and décor create a cheerful atmosphere as residents shop, dine, and prepare for family gatherings.

Beyond the lights and decorations, Christmas in Parsippany is marked by acts of kindness and togetherness. Community groups, houses of worship, and volunteers come together to support food drives, toy collections, and outreach efforts, ensuring that the spirit of giving reaches every corner of the township.

As Christmas approaches, Parsippany’s holiday scenes serve as a reminder that the season is about more than decorations—it is about connection, generosity, and shared joy. Whether admired from a car window, during an evening walk, or while attending a local gathering, the Christmas spirit is alive and shining throughout the community.

To the Editor:

Finally, the Barberio era has come to an end. Ironically, but not surprisingly, it ended with a Superior Court Judge concluding that Mayor Barberio “failed to present factual evidence supporting claims of voting irregularities”. Apparently, despite his wild claims of voting irregularities, Mr. Barberio could not supply a single certification or affidavit from any voter asserting that they did not execute and cast their ballot. 

During his on again off again Mayoral terms, Mayor Barberio often found “facts” to be annoying preferring instead to rely on his peculiar brand of bluster and double talk and the smooth talking and self-serving attorneys and out-of-town PILOT seeking developers who eagerly befriended him.  

Mr. Barberio has one last chance to repair his already damaged legacy. He can do so by conceding defeat, by congratulating Mr. Desai and by calling on all of his supporters to support the Mayor-elect in his efforts to restore pride and prosperity to Parsippany.

And that’s a fact.

Bob Crawford

PARSIPPANY — A Superior Court judge on Tuesday dismissed a legal challenge to the Parsippany-Troy Hills mayoral election, ruling that former Mayor James R. Barberio failed to present factual evidence supporting claims of voting irregularities. The decision clears the way for Democrat Pulkit Desai to assume office in January.

In a written ruling issued December 23, Superior Court Judge Noah Franzblau dismissed Barberio’s verified election contest with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled. Franzblau also ordered Barberio to pay the prevailing candidate’s legal fees.

“(Barberio) has not provided either a certification or affidavit from any voter asserting that they did not execute and cast their ballot,” Franzblau wrote.

Desai defeated Barberio by 80 votes in the November 4 general election.

Allegations Rejected by the Court

Barberio, the Republican incumbent, filed multiple post-election actions seeking a recount and recheck. Earlier petitions were dismissed by another judge for procedural defects, including failure to meet statutory deadlines. Barberio later filed a verified contest alleging that illegal votes were counted, legal votes were rejected, and irregularities occurred with mail-in, provisional, and in-person ballots.

Among the claims were:

• Alleged signature mismatches involving 33 provisional ballots and 122 mail-in ballots
• Assertions that ballots were cast in the names of deceased voters
• Arguments that mail-in ballots missing required inner envelopes should have been counted

Judge Franzblau rejected those claims, finding that Barberio relied largely on allegations made “upon information and belief” and failed to submit sworn statements from any voters asserting their ballots were improperly cast, rejected, or forged. At oral argument, Barberio’s attorneys acknowledged they had not obtained statements from any of the voters named in the complaint denying that they voted.

Mail-In Ballot Rules Upheld

The court also ruled that election officials properly rejected mail-in ballots lacking inner envelopes, citing New Jersey statutes requiring signature verification. Without the required envelopes, Franzblau wrote, boards of election are legally prohibited from counting those ballots.

Claims that undelivered sample ballots were evidence of illegal voting were likewise dismissed. The judge noted that returned sample ballots can occur for routine reasons such as voter relocation or postal issues and do not, on their own, demonstrate fraud or misconduct. In several cases cited by Barberio, the identified voters did not vote at all.

Parsippany Focus previously published the names of individuals listed in the election lawsuit. Following publication, the outlet received numerous calls from residents who expressed concern about being included in the article and strongly asserted that they had legally cast their ballots. Several callers stated they were upset that their names appeared in connection with the legal challenge and emphasized that they properly participated in the election.

Attorneys’ Fees Ordered

Under New Jersey election law, courts may award attorneys’ fees when an election contest lacks evidentiary support. Desai’s attorney, Raj Parikh, has been directed to submit a fee application within ten days.

Desai is scheduled to be sworn in as mayor on January 3.

MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Senate has approved bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Joe Pennacchio aimed at protecting the independent contractor status of real estate professionals while allowing them to continue receiving commission income through limited liability companies (LLCs).

The measure, known as S-4889/A-5978, amends existing state law to clarify that real estate agents may accept commission payments through an LLC without jeopardizing their classification as independent contractors—an issue that surfaced following new registration requirements enacted last year.

According to Pennacchio, the bill is designed to ensure real estate professionals can preserve their independence while benefiting from federal tax deductions available to independent contractors.

“This bill ensures that New Jersey real estate professionals can keep their independence while taking full advantage of federal tax benefits,” Pennacchio said. “It’s a simple, common-sense fix that will protect realtors’ hard-earned money while making New Jersey a more business-friendly state.”

Industry advocates raised concerns that the prior registration changes could have unintentionally forced real estate professionals into employee status, potentially eliminating access to important federal tax advantages. The newly approved legislation addresses those concerns by clearly defining that commissions paid through an LLC do not alter a realtor’s independent contractor standing.

With Senate approval secured, the bill now advances through the legislative process as New Jersey lawmakers continue efforts to balance worker protections with flexibility for small businesses and independent professionals across the state.