PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – September 22, 2025.
Video: Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education Meeting – September 25
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education Meeting – September 25.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Hosts Spooktacular Trunk or Treat Event! 🎃
PARSIPPANY — Get ready for a spooky and fun-filled evening as the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills invites everyone to its Trunk or Treat event! It promises to be a spooktacular gathering, scheduled for Saturday, October 25, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., at Smith Field, come rain or shine.
A Community Endeavor 🕸️
The township is calling upon residents, local organizations, and businesses to come together to make this event a resounding success for the children. Attendees are encouraged to go with their vehicles decorated in festive and spooky themes. For those preferring a stationary setup, eight-foot tables will be available for displaying treats.
Registration and Contributions 🦇
Registration is mandatory for those setting up trunks or tables, ensuring a well-organized and smooth-running event.
Children attending are required to contribute one bag of factory-sealed candy or a sealed bag of non-food treats with at least 50 wrapped pieces, ensuring a safe and enjoyable treat collection for everyone. There’s no admission fee, making it a fun, accessible event for all families in the township.
Trunk & Table Registration 🍬
To register your trunk or table click here.
Join the Frightful Fun 🌟
This event is not just about treats; it’s about community bonding, fun, and creating delightful memories. So, gear up with your spookiest decorations and join the township in making this Halloween a memorable one for the children! Food trucks and a Pumpkin Patch, too!
Durga Puja 2025: A Cultural Extravaganza in Parsippany
PARSIPPANY — The Indian Community Center of Garden State (ICCGS) will host its 33rd annual Durga Puja celebration on Saturday, October 4, and Sunday, October 5, at Parsippany High School, 309 Baldwin Road, Parsippany, NJ, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. each day.
A Tradition of Devotion and Community
At the heart of the festival is the awe-inspiring image of Goddess Durga, standing in majestic poise atop her lion, subduing the demon Mahishasura. The celebration is more than ritual—it is a living expression of the Devi Mahatmya, a 700-verse epic of divine power and triumph over evil. For 33 years, ICCGS has woven tradition and togetherness into a cultural fabric that unites the Bengali community and friends throughout New Jersey.
A Cultural Panorama
From volunteers building and adorning the Puja mandaps to preparing bhog and Prasad, every detail reflects devotion and selfless service. The halls of Parsippany High School will come alive with music, dance, art, and adda, offering both nostalgia and new memories. The spirited Dhunuchi Naach and the vibrant Sindoor Khela will mark the grand farewell, symbolizing Maa Durga’s blessings until her return next year.
Why You Should Attend
- A living celebration blending prayer, performance, and devotion.
- A home away from home for the diaspora, filled with alpona designs, Mahalaya chants, and heartfelt fellowship.
- A stage for talent showcasing artists, dancers, and musicians from the community.
- Savory Bengali cuisine and vibrant décor to complete the experience.
Event Details
- When: October 4 & 5, 2025 (10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.)
- Where: Parsippany High School, 309 Baldwin Rd, Parsippany.
- How to Attend: Register online at www.iccgs.org
Durga Puja is a luminous festival of victory, devotion, and belonging. Whether you come to pray, feast, dance, or simply soak in the festive spirit, your presence will make Durga Puja 2025 unforgettable.
Community Partnerships Shine as 3 Century Drive Prepares for Redevelopment
PARSIPPANY — As Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee, Frank Cahill was no stranger to connecting local businesses and nonprofits with opportunities that strengthened the community. In September, 3 Century Drive became the focus of such efforts when the building’s owners, Kushner Real Estate Group, coordinated with Nicolas Limanov, Executive Board Member of Parsippany Rescue and Recovery.
Before the property is demolished to make way for a new warehouse — approved by the Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board — Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, the Morris County Sheriff’s Department, and other first responders used the building to conduct specialized training exercises.
“When Parsippany’s EMS and fire departments approached us about conducting training exercises in our vacant office building on Century Drive, we were happy to help,” said Doug Mineur, representing the Kushner Real Estate Group. “It gave first responders a realistic environment to practice critical skills. We were also glad to donate the remaining office furniture, which the departments shared with local nonprofits, turning unused resources into something valuable for the community. Supporting the towns where we work was something we were proud to do.”
Limanov coordinated the donation process, ensuring that usable furniture and equipment were distributed to organizations that could put them to immediate use. “This project showed how teamwork can benefit everyone,” said Nicolas Limanov. “Instead of letting valuable items go to waste, we worked together to make sure libraries, nonprofits, and law enforcement agencies received resources that strengthened their work.”
Through this collaboration, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library, Visions and Pathways, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and several other organizations received valuable donations.
Cahill, the incoming Governor of NJ District Kiwanis International, personally reached out to Visions and Pathways to help identify items that could benefit the nonprofit. The organization received a variety of much-needed resources, including desks, filing cabinets, bookcases, tables, chairs, shelving units, and other office equipment that immediately enhanced their operations.
One of the largest beneficiaries, Visions and Pathways, had a long-standing mission of protecting, educating, and empowering at-risk youth and young adults. For more than 50 years, the nonprofit had provided safe housing, counseling, life skills training, and educational support to help young people overcome crises such as homelessness, abuse, and neglect.
Founded in 1970 as Somerset Home for Temporarily Displaced Children, Visions and Pathways expanded over the decades to serve youth throughout New Jersey. Its programs included residential care, outreach to runaway and homeless youth, mentoring, and vocational training — all to equip young people with the tools they needed to achieve independence and stability.
The donations from 3 Century Drive helped the organization furnish living spaces for residents and improve work areas for staff, directly enhancing the quality of services provided.
“We are greatly appreciative of Frank Cahill’s commitment to Visions and Pathways,” said David Walker, Executive Director of Visions and Pathways. “Thanks to Frank’s leadership and the generosity of Kushner Real Estate Group, our organization received high-quality furniture that will directly enhance our programs. This support helps us give youth a home, the tools to become self-sufficient, and the chance to build a brighter future. We are fortunate to have friends like Frank and the Kiwanis community standing with us as we provide for abused and neglected children.”
Cahill praised the collaboration, emphasizing how vital partnerships like these were to strengthening the community. “When the business community and nonprofits worked together, we created an immediate, positive impact,” he said.
12-Year-Old Hospitalized After Morning Scooter Crash on Halsey Road
PARSIPPANY — At approximately 7:15 a.m. on Tuesday, September 24, officers responded to the area of Halsey Road and Quaker Road for a report of a crash involving a juvenile on an electric scooter and a motor vehicle.
According to the preliminary investigation, a 12-year-old juvenile was operating an electric scooter in the westbound lane of Halsey Road when he crossed the double yellow line into the eastbound lane. At that time, he was struck by a 2014 Subaru Impreza traveling eastbound.
The driver of the Subaru immediately stopped and remained at the scene. The juvenile, who was wearing a helmet, sustained serious injuries and was transported to Morristown Medical Center for further treatment.
At this stage of the investigation, authorities stated it does not appear that the speed of the Subaru was a contributing factor. The incident remains under investigation.
Mayor Barberio Honors Cahill with Proclamation for Kiwanis Leadership
PARSIPPANY — During the 108th Annual Convention of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International, held at the Tropicana Resort in Atlantic City, Parsippany resident Frank Cahill was officially sworn in as Governor for the 2025–2026 service year. Cahill, a dedicated Kiwanian since 1991, will lead the statewide organization under his theme, “Double Down with Frank,” focusing on building, nurturing, and retaining membership while strengthening the entire Kiwanis family, including Circle K and Key Club.
Cahill, who has devoted more than three decades to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, has served in multiple leadership roles, including President, Vice President, Membership Chair, Lieutenant Governor, and Governor-Elect. Over the years, he has personally sponsored more than 120 members and played a pivotal role in chartering four new clubs, significantly expanding the reach of Kiwanis service to children and families across New Jersey.
At the ceremony, Raj Dichpally, Secretary of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee—where Cahill serves as Chairman—presented him with a proclamation from Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James R. Barberio. The proclamation highlighted Cahill’s longstanding commitment to service and recognized him as only the third Parsippany resident to hold the distinguished role of District Governor, following in the footsteps of Gordon Meth and Michael Muhaul.
Mayor Barberio’s proclamation commended Cahill for his vision, compassion, and leadership, stating: “I do hereby congratulate and commend Frank Cahill on his installation as Governor of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International, and extend our full support as he leads with dedication, compassion, and vision.”
Cahill expressed gratitude for the honor and reiterated his mission to grow Kiwanis membership, foster unity, and empower the next generation of leaders throughout the Garden State.
St. Andrew and St. Gregory’s Churches Invite Pets for Special Blessing
PARSIPPANY — St. Andrew Lutheran Church and St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church will host their annual Blessing of the Animals on Sunday, October 5, at 1:00 p.m.
The event will take place on the front grounds of St. Andrew Lutheran Church, located at 335 Reynolds Avenue. Community members are invited to bring their pets of all shapes and sizes to receive a special blessing.
“All animals are welcome—whether furry, feathered, or scaled,” organizers shared. The Blessing of the Animals tradition celebrates the bond between people and their pets while honoring St. Francis of Assisi, known as the patron saint of animals.
For more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with St. Andrew Lutheran Church at (973) 887-6713 / [email protected] or St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church at (973) 887-5879 / [email protected]
Tourist Injured in NYC? Here’s What to Do in the First 24 Hours
New York City welcomes tens of millions of visitors yearly, but accidents can happen during your stay. Your dream vacation might turn stressful after a taxicab accident, a trip on a broken sidewalk, or a slip and fall at your hotel.
Legal rights protect you when accidents occur while exploring the city’s bustling streets or cultural landmarks. You can file a lawsuit against the responsible party even if you live outside the city or country. This protection extends to tourists injured anywhere from the Hudson Valley to New York’s popular attractions.
What to Do Immediately After Getting Injured in NYC
Quick action is vital if you get into an accident during your NYC trip. Seek medical attention right away – your injuries might seem minor at first glance. Some health issues like concussions or internal bleeding don’t show symptoms immediately. The nearest emergency room or urgent care facility should check you out properly. Keep in mind that NYC hospitals provide emergency care whatever your immigration status or knowing how to pay.
After getting medical help, make sure to report the incident to the right authorities. Traffic accidents need a police report – just call 911. Let the manager or property owner know right away if you get hurt at a hotel, store, or restaurant. The MTA or relevant city agency needs to know about any accidents that happen on public transit.
On top of that, you need to document everything really well. Get clear photos and videos that show the accident scene, dangerous conditions, and your visible injuries. Get contact details from anyone who saw what happened. Your medical paperwork matters most – keep all bills, prescriptions, and treatment records.
Your chances of getting compensation get better if you act fast after getting hurt while visiting New York. Leaving town without reporting injuries or getting medical care can hurt your chances by a lot to receive compensation for damages from your trip.
How to Document Your Injury and the Scene
Good documentation is vital evidence when you need to file a claim after getting injured in New York. Get medical help first, then focus on gathering a complete record of the whole ordeal.
Photograph everything. Take multiple photos of the accident scene with your smartphone from different angles. Get wide shots to show context and close-ups for details. Take pictures of any dangerous conditions like cracked sidewalks, wet floors, or poor lighting that led to your injury. Document your visible injuries and take photos as they change over time.
Collect witness information right away. Ask people who saw what happened for their names and contact details. Their independent accounts can prove your version of events. Their testimonies often provide viewpoints you might have missed.
Preserve all documentation about your injury. Save every medical record, including doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment plans. Keep track of all your expenses – medical bills, medications, transportation costs, and any changes to your travel plans because of the injury.
Note that evidence doesn’t last long. Skid marks disappear, hazards get fixed, and witnesses move on. Quick action to document everything creates a strong foundation for your potential claim. This is especially important since New York has a three-year statute of limitations for most injury claims.
Understanding Your Legal Rights as a Tourist
New York law protects every visitor’s rights after an injury, whatever you call home. Non-residents hurt while visiting New York have similar legal rights to seek compensation as local residents.
Time limits matter when taking legal action. You have 3 years from your accident date to file a personal injury claim. Claims with government entities like the MTA or injuries on public property need special attention. You must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days and submit a lawsuit within 1 year and 90 days.
New York’s pure comparative negligence rule means you can get compensation even if you were in part responsible for your accident. Your compensation will be reduced based on your share of responsibility.
Good news for tourists – you don’t need to come back to New York to pursue your case[131]. A skilled NYC attorney can handle most of the work remotely. This includes paperwork, interviews, and court hearings.
Your compensation could cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. International visitors have the same rights – your immigration status won’t affect your ability to seek damages.
A local attorney’s early guidance will help you meet vital deadlines while evidence stays fresh.
Conclusion
Getting injured during your NYC trip can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re away from home. The legal protections for tourists are strong and available. Quick action after an accident substantially strengthens your case. Getting immediate medical care protects your health and creates an official record of your injuries.
Proper documentation is a vital part of your case. Photos, witness statements, and medical records create a complete picture of the incident and its impact on you. This evidence becomes especially valuable as memories start to fade over time.
Note that being far from New York won’t stop you from seeking justice. You can handle most personal injury claims without coming back to the city. However, you need to watch out for key deadlines – particularly the strict 90-day window for claims against government entities.
You deserve fair compensation if you got hurt from a broken sidewalk, had an accident in a taxi, or suffered an injury at a tourist spot. An injury might disrupt your vacation plans, but taking the right steps in the first 24 hours protects your rights and helps you recover – both physically and financially. A skilled NYC attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing and getting back home safely.
CCM Gallery Features Retrospective Exhibit Celebrating Long-time Professor
MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) is featuring a retrospective exhibition honoring long-time CCM Professor Keith Smith, an acclaimed educator, artist, author and poet. The exhibit is on view now through Tuesday, November 4, in the CCM Gallery, located in the Sherman H. Masten Learning Resource Center. As Smith celebrates 30 years of teaching at CCM, the community is invited to experience his expansive body of work, which includes ink, paint, collage, photography, video, poetry and electrostatic media. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, September 25, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The event is free and open to the public, with wine and light refreshments served.
This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to explore the evolution of an artist whose work has been featured at leading institutions, including The Museum of Modern Art (NYC), The Smithsonian Institute (Washington, D.C.), The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and The New Jersey State Museum in Trenton. His art is represented in major collections nationwide and has been featured in numerous publications and media, including Choices in Healing (MIT Press), Creative Healing (Harper), Animals As Teachers and Healers (New Sage Press), Arts Alive (PBS) and New Morning (Hallmark Channel).
“Art is the language I use to understand the world, to question it, and to reflect the human experience,” said Smith. “This exhibition is not just a look back—it’s a map of the journey.”
At CCM, Smith has shaped generations of students, having served as professor of Art, dean of the School of Liberal Arts and chairperson of the Art and Design Department. He also played a key role in designing the CCM Gallery, a non-profit exhibition space on campus serving a vast group of established and emerging artists.
Smith holds BFA and MFA degrees from the California College of the Arts. He is the author of “Mourning Sickness: The Art of Grieving” and recipient of numerous awards, including a Ford Foundation Fellowship, Gold Medals in Painting and Drawing at the California State Exposition and a National Merit Award in Experimental Media from the American Film Institute and Sony Corporation.
The CCM Gallery is located in the Sherman H. Masten Learning Resource Center on the college’s campus, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. Gallery hours are Mondays through Fridays, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information, click here.
To explore CCM’s associate degree programs in the creative arts, click here.
CCM Offers Accelerated Fall 2025 Late 7-week Classes
MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM), named the #1 community college in New Jersey by SmartAsset’s 2025 study of the Best Community Colleges in the U.S., is enrolling students for its Fall 2025 Late 7-week session, with classes beginning Thursday, October 23. This affordable, accelerated session allows students to earn college credits in just seven weeks, compared to the traditional 15-week semester. It is an ideal opportunity for first-time students looking to start college this fall, for those who missed the traditional semester start date, or anyone interested in exploring a new subject area quickly and efficiently.
With nearly 100 courses offered in the Late 7-week session, students can choose from a wide range of subjects. Over 50% will be accessible online through CCM’s Virtual Campus, providing flexibility for today’s students who are often balancing academics with work or personal commitments. Additionally, many CCM courses are transferable to four-year colleges and universities, making CCM an ideal option for students seeking to fast-track their education while minimizing a financial burden.
CCM offers one of the best ROIs among community colleges and continues to be a leader in affordable, high-quality education. The Fall Late 7-week session provides a great opportunity for students to learn a new skill or stay on track for timely graduation, while earning credits quickly. With CCM’s wide range of offerings that meet industry demand, students can earn big while saving big, ensuring a pathway to success without the financial strain.
Emerge Confident in 2026
By enrolling at CCM now, students will be well prepared to continue learning this Winterim 2026 Semester. Winterim courses begin on December 22 and are offered online in a condensed four-week format, providing a great way to lighten a future semester’s course load. Registration for Winterim opens on Monday, November 3.
CCM currently offers more than 100 academic programs, including associate degrees, industry-recognized certificates, and professional development opportunities. For more information, visit https://www.ccm.edu/get-started/. To apply for admission, contact CCM’s Admissions Office at 973-328-5100 or visit www.ccm.edu/admissions/.
Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills Kicks Off New Club Year
PARSIPPANY — The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills will hold its first meeting of the new club year on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. The gathering will take place at the Parsippany Library, located at 449 Halsey Road.
The September general meeting invites members and prospective members to come together to connect, inspire, and grow as the club launches another year of community service and fellowship. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about upcoming initiatives and projects while building friendships and partnerships that strengthen the Parsippany community.
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills, part of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs, has a long tradition of service, supporting both local and statewide causes through fundraising, volunteer work, and community engagement.
Residents interested in learning more about the club or becoming involved are encouraged to attend the meeting.
Parsippany Hosts Quadruple Wetdown Celebration
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Fire Departments marked a historic day on Saturday, September 20, with the Parsippany Quadruple Wetdown held at 6 Century Drive. From 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., hundreds of residents, supporters, and fellow firefighters gathered to celebrate the arrival of four new fire apparatus placed into service across the Township.
The event featured the dedication of Engine 34 (Lake Parsippany District #3), Tower 6 (Parsippany District #6), Engine 15 (Mount Tabor District #1), and Tower 11 (Mount Tabor District #1). Each vehicle was showcased with pride, representing the latest in safety, technology, and firefighting capability.
Guests enjoyed an afternoon of food, music, and family-friendly activities. Admission was free, with souvenir mugs and t-shirts available for purchase to support the departments. Neighboring fire companies joined in the traditional “wetdown” ceremony, spraying water over the new trucks to christen them into service.
The event highlighted not only Parsippany’s strong firefighting tradition but also the deep bond between its volunteer firefighters and the community.
“This is about more than just new trucks,” said one organizer. “It’s about protecting our community and honoring the men and women who step up to serve.”
The Parsippany Fire Departments extended their thanks to event sponsors Absolute Fire Protection and E-One Fire Apparatus, along with the many volunteers who helped make the celebration possible.
Thousands Enjoy Parsippany’s 2025 Fall Festival at Smith Field
PARSIPPANY — Perfect weather set the stage for Parsippany’s 2025 Fall Festival, where sunny skies and temperatures in the 70s brought families out in droves to one of the Township’s signature annual events. Held at Smith Field Park, the festival drew thousands of residents and visitors for an afternoon filled with food, entertainment, and community spirit. This marked the second consecutive year the celebration took place at Smith Field, as construction continues along North Beverwyck Road.
On one end of the spacious field, guests found rows of tents representing local businesses, civic associations, town departments, and political groups. Shoppers browsed fresh honey, handmade artwork, and even picked up medical tips and health resources. Plenty of booths offered free giveaways and promotional items, ensuring everyone had something to take home.
At the other end of the festival grounds, the air was filled with the aroma of festival favorites. From local staples like Ferraro’s, Parsippany’s Best Pizza, and Sunrise Kitchen, to empanada trucks, Italian ices, hot dogs, zeppoles, and more, there was no shortage of delicious choices. Ample seating allowed attendees to enjoy their meals while rocking out to live music. A separate children’s area provided games and activities, keeping the youngest festivalgoers entertained.
Mayor James R. Barberio praised the success of the event, which continues to showcase Parsippany’s strong community spirit. The Parsippany Police Department, Community Emergency Response Team, volunteer firefighters, EMTs, and many dedicated organizers were present to ensure the day was both safe and enjoyable.
The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills organizes the annual Fall Festival and will return next year with even more attractions and opportunities to celebrate local businesses and organizations.
Littleton’s Fifth Grade Hosts “Pancakes & Pajamas” Fundraiser at IHOP
PARSIPPANY — Littleton Elementary School’s fifth-grade class is inviting the community to a fun and delicious fundraiser, “Pancakes & Pajamas,” at IHOP, located at 792 Route 46, Parsippany.
The event will be held on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Families, friends, and supporters are encouraged to come dressed in their coziest pajamas and enjoy breakfast favorites all day long.
IHOP will donate 20% of all proceeds from both dine-in and take-out orders to benefit the Littleton Class of 2026. Guests must present the event flyer or show it on their phone to participate.
This event combines community spirit with a fun theme, ensuring students and their families can share a memorable day while raising funds for school activities.
Six Candidates Vie for Seats on Parsippany Board of Education
PARSIPPANY — Six residents are running for election to the Parsippany–Troy Hills Board of Education in the upcoming General Election on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Voters will select three members to serve three-year terms on the nine-member board.
The candidates include incumbents and newcomers who share a commitment to Parsippany’s students and schools.
- Jack S. Raia, 15 Brooklawn Drive, Morris Plains
- Lamia R. Elharairi, 4 Ambler Way, Parsippany – running under the slogan “Educate, Empower, Elevate”
- Dhaval Shah, 86 South Powder Mill Road, Morris Plains
- Alison Cogan, 4 Faber Road, Parsippany – “Educate, Empower, Elevate”
- Michelle Shappell, 25 Alan Drive, Parsippany – “Educate, Empower, Elevate”
- Susy Golderer, 187 Vail Road, Parsippany
The election will determine who will help shape policy, oversee budgets, and guide the district’s educational priorities. With more than 7,000 students enrolled in the Parsippany–Troy Hills School District, the Board of Education plays a critical role in ensuring academic success and fiscal responsibility.
Residents are encouraged to learn more about each candidate and make their voices heard at the polls on November 4.
Parsippany United Methodist Church to Host Annual Blessing of the Animals
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany United Methodist Church will hold its annual “Blessing of the Animals” service on Sunday, September 28, at 10:00 a.m. The event will take place at the church, located at 903 South Beverwyck Road.
Community members are invited to bring their pets—whether furry, feathered, or scaly—for a special blessing. The tradition celebrates the bond between people and their animals, recognizing the joy and companionship pets bring to families.
All are welcome to attend this family-friendly service, which has become a cherished tradition for pet owners across the township.
Phenix Salon Suites Celebrates Ribbon Cutting in Parsippany
PARSIPPANY — Phenix Salon Suites officially opened its doors at the Troy-Hills Shopping Center, 1157 Route 46, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, September 20.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee Chairman Frank Cahill, and committee member Jigar Shah joined local owner Andrea Covelli in welcoming the new business to town.
The Parsippany location features 38 private suites designed for Lifestyle Professionals who want to operate their own salon business in a secure, modern environment. Each suite allows stylists and other professionals to run independent businesses while sharing the benefits of a central, high-visibility location.
Andrea Covelli brings both entrepreneurial and educational experience to her role as local owner. She previously owned her own nail salon for five years and is now in her 19th year as a special education teacher. “This is a beautiful space you’ve created, and a very interesting concept. I think you will do well here as all roads lead to Parsippany! I wish you much success,” Mayor Barberio said during the celebration.
Parsippany Economic Development Committee Chairman Frank Cahill added, “We are thrilled to welcome Phenix Salon Suites to our business community. This innovative concept not only supports small business owners but also helps strengthen Parsippany’s reputation as a hub for entrepreneurship and growth.”
A larger grand opening event is planned for later this year, but Saturday’s ribbon cutting provided an opportunity to introduce the community to this growing business model.
Phenix Salon Suites, founded in 2007 by beauty expert and celebrity hairstylist Gina Rivera, has redefined the salon industry with its suite rental concept. Since beginning franchising in 2012, the brand has grown to 416 locations across 33 states and the United Kingdom, earning recognition on Entrepreneur’s Franchise Top 500 list for 12 consecutive years.
To learn more about Phenix Salon Suites and its franchise opportunities, click here.
Homeowners and Renters Have Until October 31 to Apply for ANCHOR Property Tax Relief
MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey homeowners and renters under the age of 65 are being reminded that applications for the 2025 ANCHOR Property Tax Relief Program are now available. For those who did not receive a mailed application, the filing deadline is October 31, 2025.
Under the program, homeowners who earned up to $150,000 in 2024 are eligible for a benefit of $1,750, while those with income between $150,001 and $250,000 can qualify for $1,250. Renters age 64 and younger who earned less than $150,000 are eligible for $450 in relief. Renters 65 and older may qualify for a $700 benefit.
Payments will begin on a rolling basis starting September 15, with funds typically arriving within 90 days of filing. Applicants filing online may choose between direct deposit or paper checks, while paper applications will result in a mailed check only.
For more information, application forms, and filing instructions, visit the NJ Division of Taxation’s ANCHOR webpage by clicking here.
Former Bookkeeper Sentenced for Theft of Funds from Parishes
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally confirmed that Melissa Rivera, 61, Haskell, has been sentenced for theft from Roman Catholic parishes in Washington Township and Pompton Plains.
On May 19, 2025, Rivera pled guilty to two counts of Theft, a crime of the third degree, in violation of 2C:20-3A, before Judge Robert Hanna.
On September 12, Judge Hanna sentenced Rivera to a term of five years probation. As a condition of probation, Rivera will be required to pay the two victim parishes a combined $292,728 in restitution at a rate of $800 a month.
An investigation by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Financial Crimes Unit began after a referral alleged Rivera stole approximately $192,000 while employed as a bookkeeper at Our Lady of Mountain Parish in Washington Township (Morris County), by writing herself numerous checks from parish accounts.
During the course of the investigation, it was discovered that between May 2018 and May 2024, Rivera created 137 checks at Our Lady of the Mountain totaling $287,487 and 3 checks at Our Lady of Good Counsel parish totaling $5,242, both located within Morris County, while employed as a bookkeeper. The total loss was $292,728. As a result of this investigation, Rivera was subsequently charged on March 27, 2025.
Prosecutor Carroll recognizes the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Financial Crimes Unit, whose efforts contributed to the guilty plea in this case.