PARSIPPANY – Liquid Church, one of New Jersey’s fastest-growing Christian churches, has successfully completed its annual Christmas Outreach, surpassing its goal of packing more than 1 million holiday meals for hungry children and families around the world.

Over 6,000 volunteers came together across six New Jersey locations on Friday, December 5th, and Saturday, December 6th, serving in partnership with Rise Against Hunger. The massive effort produced nutritionally fortified meals that will now be distributed globally to communities facing food insecurity.

Designed as a family-friendly service experience, volunteers of all ages—parents, teens, and young children—worked side-by-side in an energetic assembly-line environment. Each location packed thousands of meals within hours, contributing to the overall million-meal achievement.

“Every year at our annual Christmas Outreach, I’m blown away by the selfless hearts in our community as people all across the state put the love of God into action,” said Tim Lucas, founder and lead pastor of Liquid Church. “By packing over a million nutritious meals, we are making a lasting impact for families battling hunger worldwide and bringing the hope of Christ at Christmas to those who need it most.”

Liquid Church once again partnered with Rise Against Hunger, an international humanitarian organization committed to ending hunger by empowering communities, nourishing lives, and responding to global emergencies. Volunteers packed meals at Liquid Church locations in Princeton, Parsippany, Wayne, Somerset, Mountainside, and Garwood.

“At Liquid Church, it’s our heart to serve others—both locally here in New Jersey and globally in countries like Zambia, where we continue our mission to provide clean, safe drinking water,” Lucas added. “The overwhelming response from our community makes this outreach possible. We simply could not reach the million-meal mark without the incredible support of volunteers who share our vision.”

For more information on upcoming outreach opportunities, visit LiquidChurch.com/ChristmasOutreach.

Liquid Church is one of New Jersey’s fastest-growing Christian churches. Founded in 2007 by Lead Pastor Tim Lucas, the church’s vision is to “Saturate the State with the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” with six physical campuses across Mercer, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, and Union Counties. More than 5,000 people participate weekly through in-person services and Church Online. Global outreach efforts include building hundreds of clean-water wells throughout Africa and Central America. NPR, CNN, FOX News, and TIME magazine have featured Liquid Church’s innovative ministry. Learn more at www.LiquidChurch.com.

Rise Against Hunger is an international humanitarian organization growing a global movement to end hunger through community empowerment, nutritional support, and crisis response. With U.S. locations and five international offices, the organization provides immediate food assistance while implementing sustainable, long-term solutions to lift communities out of hunger. Learn more at www.riseagainsthunger.org.

The funniest thing about love is that it doesn’t forgive any of us. At least once in our lives, love has had a better hand of cards than we did, and it played them damn right. We inhaled it like poison, blind in our devotion to the one who made us rage. Oh, love and rage. A fatal intertwining, worthy of Kafka’s writing. That gentleman really knew what he was talking about. Many people struggle to recover after reading Kafka. Too bad he died as a relatively unknown author, believing himself to be a failure. Anyways, the point is, love, in its sly omnipotence, gets even the most impenetrable of us, even those who self-proclaim themselves as if they were these unmovable towers of reason, bastions against the chaos of emotion.

Even the CEOs who outsmart the world, telling themselves they are immune, that they can observe without feeling, that they can dissect love with intellect alone, they cannot. At least, not all of the time. Love thrives precisely where pride trembles, and in that quiet capitulation to the absurd and the ineffable, CEOs are revealed not just as rulers of their empires, but as fragile witnesses to their own hearts, things they have treated for too long as mere organs. Or maybe, they are not wrong on this one. The heart might truly be just an organ, far from the metaphors it has long been burdened with. Either way, whether because of the heart, a brain malfunction, or compulsive behavior, love exists. Just imagine a fancy CEO, obsessed enough with themselves to have their name tattooed on every gadget they use, meeting a partner who embodies pure love. It must be absolutely hilarious.

Act I – How Desire Emerges Before Conscious Awareness, Disrupting Even The Most Calculated Minds 

Even the sharpest, most calculating minds, people who schedule their lives down to the minute, who can forecast markets and plan empires, aren’t immune to the slow, quiet pull of desire. For it doesn’t arrive as a storm; it sneaks in, a shadow brushing against the edges of thought, unnoticed at first. Seeing their name pop up on your phone first thing in the morning, hearing a certain tone in their voice, noticing tiny habits that make them unmistakably themselves, these are the things that train the brain before the conscious mind has a chance to catch on. Anyhow, the tragedy truly begins when that person disappears for a while, even briefly, and the brain suddenly notices the void. Absence makes the anticipation spike, desire intensifies, and what once felt optional now feels like a necessity, like a room full of people who run out of oxygen, and they are all fighting for the single individual holding the disposable cylinder. That individual is the one who left you linger in absence. 

The culminating point of Act I: Even the most rational, disciplined individuals, the ones who pride themselves on control, can find themselves caught off guard, subtly reshaped by forces they didn’t even know existed. Logic can map out markets, but it cannot map out longing.

Act II – How Emotional Impulses Override Rational Planning, Leaving Ambition Vulnerable 

Ambition is a funny thing. It makes you think you’re in full control, that your plans, spreadsheets, and strategies can bend the world to your will. And then a smile, a glance, a fleeting moment, and suddenly, everything shifts. The brain isn’t a neat machine, and emotion sits at the table, whispering instructions your conscious mind doesn’t even hear. Even the most disciplined planners, CEOs, strategists, people who think in charts, find priorities bending, goals realigning, decisions quietly influenced by attachment, desire, or simple curiosity. The only logical explanation? The prefrontal cortex, which governs long-term planning, is continually influenced by limbic structures such as the amygdala, which respond to immediate emotional salience, and the insula, which monitors internal bodily states, creating a tension between reason and affect. Studies on decision-making under stress or social influence reveal that even highly disciplined individuals can be swayed by desire, attachment, or fear, often without realizing it. Ambition, carefully cultivated through military-like routines, incentives, and cognitive discipline, is especially vulnerable when emotions introduce uncertainty into assessments of risk or reward.

The culminating point of Act II: The cruel joke is that this is universal. We like to imagine ourselves immune, but human beings are wired to respond, to anticipate, to crave. And that craving doesn’t check your calendar or respect your objectives. It just is.

Act III – When Love Meets Consequence: Lessons from Suppressed  Emotions 

Even the most disciplined CEOs can be blindsided by the heart. Imagine someone who runs an empire, whose life revolves around control and precision, falling for the wrong person, someone whose charm masks recklessness, whose presence slowly erodes both emotional and financial stability. Funds mismanaged, accounts exposed, decisions clouded by attachment, entire empires can wobble because the heart refuses to stay in its lane. This is why a business  password manager, multi-factor authentication, and compartmentalized control of business assets are not boring rules. They are lifelines, particularly the business password manager, as they ensure that when emotions may rage, access remains impenetrable. Love may pierce the armor of pride, it always does, but it should never pierce the value of an enterprise. 

But beyond spreadsheets and digital safeguards lies the deeper lesson, the one that informs us about how suppressing emotion doesn’t make us invincible but blind. Denying longing warps judgment, builds tension, and amplifies risk. Emotions are not weaknesses, they are signals, guides, sometimes inconvenient, sometimes terrifying, but always telling you something you need to know. Ignoring them might preserve a sense of control for a while, but sooner or later, the heart asserts itself in ways that can be costly or enlightening. 

Learning to see, respect, and navigate your own feelings without surrendering entirely is perhaps the hardest, and most necessary thing one must learn throughout their journey on Earth. 

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PARSIPPANY — In a dramatic turn of events following one of the closest elections in Parsippany history, Mayor James R. Barberio has filed a formal legal challenge contesting the results of the November 4 mayoral race.

The verified complaint, filed Friday at 4:14 p.m., in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Morris County, alleges serious irregularities in the vote-by-mail process that Barberio claims may have altered the election’s outcome. Democrat Pulkit Desai was certified the winner by the Morris County Board of Canvassers on Monday, November 17, edging out Barberio by just 80 votes.

“I am deeply concerned that the mayoral race in Parsippany may have been improperly certified. The problem relates to vote-by-mail ballots. According to county records, as reported on the Morris County Board of Elections website 3,198 vote-by-mail ballots were tallied on election night,” said John M. Carbone, Esq.

This is the third attempt since November 4 to overturn the results certified by the Morris County Board of Canvassers.

According to the complaint, official county records show a discrepancy of 224 vote-by-mail ballots—with 3,789 votes counted, but only 3,565 confirmed as received by the November 10 deadline.

Barberio’s filing details alleged violations of multiple provisions under New Jersey election law, citing “illegal votes received or legal votes rejected,” and “errors by the Morris County Board of Canvassers in counting the votes and declaring the result.”

“The margin is razor-thin,” the complaint reads. “Documented irregularities surpass 700 votes—nearly ten times the certified margin of victory.”

Barberio, the Republican nominee, is seeking judicial review of hundreds of ballots, including overvotes, undervotes, and late-arriving mail ballots. The suit also names as respondents the Morris County Clerk, Board of Elections, Superintendent of Elections, and the Parsippany Municipal Clerk.

The court has not scheduled a hearing as of press time. If the results are overturned, it could prompt either a recount or a potential re-election.

Barberio led Desai by 211 votes, 9,555 to 9,339.  But provisional and vote-by-mail ballots counted by the Morris County Board of Elections gave Desai a lead of 9,976 to 9,898, a margin of 50.5% to 49.65%.

Democrats also picked up two council seats, with Matt Kavanaugh and Diya Patel easily defeating Republican incumbent Frank Neglia and his running mate, Jigar Shah. That splits the township council, 3-2.

Superior Court Judge Noah Franzblau will preside over the trial.

This is a developing story. Parsippany Focus will provide updates as more information becomes available.

PARSIPPANY — The holiday season officially arrived in Parsippany as Santa Claus made a festive entrance aboard a brightly decorated Parsippany Fire Truck, delighting children and families who lined up to welcome him.

With lights flashing and just the right touch of holiday cheer, Santa waved from the fire truck as members of the Parsippany Fire Department proudly escorted him to the event. Children rushed forward with excitement, eager to greet Santa, pose for photos, and share their Christmas wishes.

Adding to the holiday magic, Sandra Neglia and Mayor James Barberio took the stage to read and sing a lively rendition of “The Night Before Christmas,” entertaining the crowd and bringing smiles to families across the park.

The Parsippany High School Choir also performed a collection of holiday songs, filling the air with seasonal melodies that set the perfect tone for Santa’s arrival.

Local officials, community leaders, and residents joined together, continuing a treasured Parsippany tradition that celebrates unity, joy, and the spirit of the season.

With Santa’s arrival by fire truck and festive performances throughout the evening, the holiday season in Parsippany is officially underway.

PARSIPPANY — A remarkable century of life was celebrated recently as Senator Joe Pennacchio presented a proclamation to Phyllis Corsi, recognizing her extraordinary journey and her deep connection to Parsippany, Boonton Township, and now Montville.

Born on November 7, 1925, in Leeds, England, Corsi grew up during the World War II era. During the war, she met the American serviceman who would become her husband. The two married, and in 1947, Corsi traveled to the United States as a war bride, bringing with her their one-year-old daughter.

Corsi began her American life in Newark, later moving to Parsippany in 1956, where she and her family became part of the town’s early growth. In 1972, she moved to Boonton Township, where she lived until her husband’s passing in 2008.

Now a resident of Mira Vie in Montville, Corsi continues to share her stories, her warmth, and her remarkable perspective shaped by 100 years of life experiences. From wartime England to modern Morris County, she has witnessed profound change and embraced every stage of her journey with resilience and grace.

During the proclamation presentation, Senator Pennacchio praised Corsi’s longevity, courage, and the meaningful contributions she has made to the communities she has called home.

Corsi’s life story stands as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by war brides and the lasting impact they have had on families and communities across New Jersey.

PARSIPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – Tuesday, December 2, 2025, agenda meeting at 7:00 p.m. at the municipal building.

Click here to download the agenda

Click here for a copy of the 2025 calendar.

Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided in accordance with the requirements of the Open Public Meetings Law by filing the notice in the Office of the Township Clerk and by posting the meeting notice on the bulletin board at the Municipal Building on December 2, 2024, where it has remained posted since that date. A legal notice appeared in the Daily Record and the Newark Star-Ledger on December 6, 2024. 

Executive Session

The Council plans to enter a closed executive session to discuss attorney–client privileged matters related to affordable housing. Once confidentiality is no longer required, minutes will be made public.

Second Reading & Public Hearing on Ordinances

Several ordinances are up for final consideration and public comment, including:

• Amendments to a previously adopted bond ordinance
• Establishment of 2025 salary ranges
• Adjustments to sewer rental fees
• Increases to water rates and charges
• Amendments to the township’s cannabis ordinance

Public Session

The public will have an opportunity to speak on any township matter before the Council.

Consent Agenda

The Council is expected to vote on routine items including:

• Issuing a new hotel/motel liquor license (Troy Hotel)
• Cancelling and refunding property taxes for a 100% permanently disabled veteran
• Authorizing budget transfers 2025-12-02-Council-Agenda

Approval of Minutes

The Council will vote on approving minutes from the November 3 agenda meeting and the November 25 regular meeting.

Reports & Presentations

Updates are expected from:

• The Mayor
• Township Council
• Township Attorney
• Business Administrator
• Township Clerk
  The Council will also address filling an unexpired term on the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

First Reading of New Ordinances

Two major financial-agreement ordinances will be introduced:

• A tax exemption agreement with PARQ Urban Renewal, LLC
• A tax exemption agreement with BBX Parsippany Urban Renewal, LLC
  Both will be scheduled for second reading on December 16. 2025

Non-Consent Agenda

The Council will consider renewing 2026 licenses for amusement games, entertainment, taxis/limos, and tourist accommodations. 2025-12-02-Council-Agenda

Payroll & Bills

The CFO recommends approval of:

• Approximately $1.65 million in payroll
• About $1.5 million in bills from the December 5 voucher list

PARSIPPANY — Father Nico Quintos was installed as pastor of St. Ann Parish in Parsippany by Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney during a Mass held on October 25. 

Appointed earlier in the year, he continues serving in the Paterson Diocese Marriage Tribunal and ministering to retired priests. Born in the Philippines, he holds degrees from St. Paul Seminary and Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in professional counseling at Seton Hall University. 

Parish leaders praise him as an engaging speaker whose preaching encourages a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. His installation brought together parishioners, clergy, family, and friends in a warm celebration of faith, unity, and new beginnings, reflecting the community’s deep appreciation for his pastoral dedication and compassionate spirit.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, December 2025. Click here to read the magazine.

PARSIPPANY — Thanksgiving arrived early for many local families thanks to the Morris County Sons of Italy Lodge 2561, which once again continued its heartfelt annual tradition of providing complete ready-to-cook turkey dinners to households needing a little extra support this holiday season.

The morning began at Parsippany ShopRite, where members of the Morris County Lodge — including President Joe Jannarone Jr. and Second Vice President Mike Fazzio — gathered to purchase and load several pallets of full turkey dinners. With carts and pallets filled high with holiday staples, the group worked together to ensure everything was packed and prepared for distribution.

From ShopRite, the team headed to the Parsippany Child Day Care Center on Baldwin Road, which served as the central hub for organizing and distributing meals to families across the Parsippany area. The boxes will be delivered to households and partner locations, helping to ensure local families can enjoy a warm, festive Thanksgiving celebration.

Each generously filled box included a Butterball turkey, mashed potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, holiday stuffing, turkey gravy, and green bean casserole — a complete, traditional Thanksgiving feast. The Sons of Italy also added a sweet finishing touch: assorted pumpkin pies to make holiday dessert just as special.

Thanks to the care and dedication of the Morris County Sons of Italy, dozens of families will sit down to a comforting and joyful Thanksgiving meal.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, December 2025. Click here to read the magazine.

MORRIS COUNTY — Optimum and the Interfaith Food Pantry Network successfully wrapped up a major hunger-relief initiative that brought thousands of donated food items to Morris County residents in need.

During a period of heightened demand for food assistance statewide, Optimum stepped up this season by partnering with IFPN and placing donation boxes inside select Optimum retail stores. Community members responded generously, dropping off non-perishable food items that directly supported families, seniors, and veterans experiencing food insecurity.

“We were honored to partner with the Interfaith Food Pantry Network in this critical effort to help fight hunger across our local communities,” said Elton Hart, Vice President and General Manager of Optimum Tri-State. “With the need for food assistance at an all-time high, it has never been more urgent for us to come together and support our neighbors. Every donation made a meaningful difference and strengthened the ties that bind us here in Morris County.”

The collection effort ran through November 20, 2025, with donation boxes located at Optimum stores in East Hanover, Edison, Morris Township, and Piscataway. The initiative provided an important boost to the Interfaith Food Pantry Network’s ongoing work to ensure Morris County residents have access to nutritious food and essential resources.

MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) threw cold water on the idea that New Jersey could withhold federal taxes or funding for federal programs in protest of the current administration in Washington, D.C. Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill suggested New Jersey could stop paying federal taxes during an appearance on comedian Jon Stewart’s podcast.

“States have no authority to withhold federal tax dollars and are legally obligated to uphold funding for federal programs, period,” said Sen. Pennacchio. “That being said, Governor-elect Sherrill, who ran on the Republican platform of affordability, can save consumers money on their high utility bills by eliminating the sales tax and Societal Benefits Charge. Rather than focusing on running partisan interference against the federal government, Democrats should turn their attention to deliver real, immediate relief for New Jersey families.”

Senator Pennacchio is a co-prime sponsor of legislation with Senator Latham Tiver (R-8) that would suspend the sales and use tax, as well as the Societal Benefits Charge on electric bills. Estimates project their proposal would save the average households hundreds of dollars on energy costs.

Read the full text of the bill, S-4765, online.