MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) slammed the Murphy administration’s energy master plan (EMP) as the root cause for New Jersey’s skyrocketing utility bills. He warned that rates will soar even higher in 2025 without a change in direction soon. 

“Make no mistake, Governor Murphy’s energy master plan is the driving force behind the absurd surge of utility bills across the state,” said Sen. Pennacchio. “I fear it will only worsen as our grid efficiency falters and our electricity demand grows. The governor needs to stop pandering to the far left and start doing what’s right for the Garden State by listening to experts who understand the real-world impacts of his policies.”

New York-Newark-Jersey City is now ranked as the 5th most expensive metro area in the country for electricity prices. According to data updated daily by Energy Bot, the average cost in the metro area is 28.80 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). 

In comparison, the average electricity rate for all New Jersey residents is 19.88 cents per kWh, 21% more expensive than the national average of 16.41 cents per kWh—and rates continue to trend upward.  

“The Murphy administration has fanned the flames of rising costs with disastrous EV mandates and catering to the wind and solar industry, all while ignoring Republican legislators calling for an all-inclusive energy policy concerning nuclear, natural gas, and renewables,” Sen. Pennacchio continued. 

In 2023, Senator Pennacchio sounded the alarm about Governor Murphy’s extreme energy master plan and the administration’s attempt to ban safe, reliable, and affordable gas stoves. 

Now, Senator Pennacchio warns that the administration’s heavy-handed electrification mandates will further drive up electricity costs, pointing to how Democrat energy policies across the service region contributed to an 800% energy price increase at PJM’s latest power auction.

This is in addition to the Murphy-approved rate increases from the Board of Public Utilities that went into effect June 1. 

“If you think energy prices are bad throughout New Jersey, just wait until PJM’s price increase hits in 2025,” Sen. Pennacchio continued. “We’re shutting down reliable energy sources too quickly, while renewables aren’t coming online fast enough, or even being built due to supply chain issues, to keep up with demand. It’s a recipe for disaster that will only worsen if we don’t change course immediately.” 

A recent report indicated that another wind developer’s project is being delayed in New Jersey due to supply chain issues. This is nearly one year after Orsted abandoned its offshore wind development, citing similar industry-wide problems. 

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Leo Club honored several of its young members with the prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award for their outstanding commitment to community service.

About the President’s Volunteer Service Award: In 2003, the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation founded the President’s Volunteer Service Award to recognize the critical role of volunteers in America’s strength and national identity. This award honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities in every corner of the nation and inspires those around them to take action, too.

The awards were given to students from Parsippany who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to volunteer work and embody the spirit of service and leadership within their community.

These young volunteers were involved in impactful service projects targeting key community causes supported by Lions Clubs International, such as childhood cancer, diabetes, hunger, vision, and youth development. Their hard work and selflessness have benefited those in need and inspired their peers and the broader community.

The award recipients for 2023 include:

Ritu Jayakar (Parsippany High School) – Gold Medal

– Shaurya Jayakar (Central Middle School) – Gold Medal

– Shreyas Jayakar (Central Middle School) – Gold Medal

– Abhik Chakraborty (Parsippany Hills High School) – Bronze Medal

– Shamik Chakraborty (Parsippany Hills High School) – Bronze Medal

These students have led service initiatives while balancing academic and personal responsibilities. Their commitment to making a difference has been possible with the support and encouragement of their parents, who have played a vital role in fostering a culture of service within their families.

These teenagers are making our community proud and setting an example for others to follow. Their spirit of volunteerism and willingness to serve exemplify the mission of the Lions and Leos.

In addition to the recognition, the Parsippany Leo Club provides personal and professional development opportunities through Lions Clubs International, enabling these young volunteers to grow as leaders and compassionate citizens.

The Parsippany Lions Club congratulates these outstanding students and looks forward to their continued involvement in serving the community.

Web: www.parsippanylionsclub.org
Email: info@parsippanylionsclub.org

PARSIPPANY — The General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills are pleased to announce the kickoff of the inaugural National Day of Service (NDS), which will spotlight food insecurity and hunger in the United States. This year’s NDS is scheduled for Saturday, September 28, nationwide. GFWC clubs nationwide are participating to help increase public awareness and provide food resources to residents/ families in their communities.

“The GFWC National Day of Service is an exciting opportunity for our clubwomen to demonstrate their volunteer know-how,” said Suellen Brazil, International President. “The GFWC tagline is ‘Living the Volunteer Spirit!,’ which is the essence of this national public awareness campaign about hunger and food insecurity. Solving hunger takes a village of concerned community leaders, public servants, and compassionate neighbors.”

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 34 million people in the U.S. are food insecure, 9 million children are hungry, 53 million people turned to food banks following COVID-19 due to unemployment, and 100 percent of U.S. counties have families suffering from food insecurity.

“These statistics are staggering, said First Last Names, GFWC Women’s Club President. “GFWC Clubwomen work tirelessly to be of service to their local communities. Hunger and food insecurity represent an issue that if everyone works together, no one in the United States needs to suffer.”

The club proudly participates in the GFWC National Day of Service by holding a “Food Drive” on Saturday, September 28, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Food Town on Beverwyck Road in Lake Hiawatha. All donations will go to the Parsippany Emergency Food Pantry at the Parsippany Senior Community Center, 1130 Knoll Road in Lake Hiawatha.

The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC), which are the largest volunteer women’s service organizations in the country/state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. General Meetings are held the fourth Monday of September through April at 7:00 p.m.  If you would like to attend our next General Meeting to find out more about what we do, call Ginny at (973) 887-0336, visit https://parsippanywomansclub.org, e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com , or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.  

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will hold a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Wednesday, September 11, at 8:40 a.m. at the Parsippany-Troy Hills Municipal Building.

The event will feature special guest speaker Richard Palmer, a Retired NYC Department of Corrections Warden and a 9/11 First Responder recognized for his heroism. The ceremony will include prayers of commemoration, a ceremonial wreath presentation, and the reading of the names of Parsippany residents lost on 9/11.

The community is encouraged to attend.

PARSIPPANY – The Parsippany Volunteer Fire District 6 is thrilled to announce its 2nd Annual Sip & Smoke Night, set for Wednesday, September 25, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at 60 Littleton Road. This exciting event will feature a variety of fine cigars, bourbon tastings, and Oktoberfest beers, providing a perfect evening for attendees to unwind and enjoy.

Pre-sale tickets are available for $65.00, with door tickets priced at $75.00. The ticket price includes two premium cigars, bourbon tastings, Oktoberfest beer, and a delicious food selection. In case of inclement weather, a rain date has been scheduled for Thursday, September 26.

The event is open only to 21 and older, ensuring a mature and enjoyable atmosphere. Don’t miss this chance to support the Parsippany Volunteer Fire District 6 and participate in a memorable evening of relaxation, great company, and top-notch refreshments!

PARSIPPANY — CareOne of Parsippany donated backpacks filled with essential school supplies to the Parsippany Police Athletic League (PAL). This generous contribution will greatly support the youth in our community as they prepare for the upcoming school year.

The donated backpacks are being distributed by the Parsippany Police Department, ensuring these much-needed supplies reach the children who need them most. We are deeply grateful to CareOne of Parsippany for recognizing the needs of our youth and taking action to help prepare them for success. Their generosity reflects a shared commitment to the well-being and future of our community’s children.

“We are truly thankful to CareOne of Parsippany for this incredible donation,” said Thomas Bushnauskas, Executive Director of the Parsippany PAL. “It’s heartening to see our community unite to support our young people. These backpacks will not only provide essential tools for learning but will also send a strong message that our community cares deeply about its youth.”

The Parsippany PAL would also like to sincerely thank the Parsippany Police Department for their continued partnership and dedication to serving the community. Their efforts in distributing these backpacks will ensure that every child in need receives the supplies necessary to start the school year on the right foot.

“At the Parsippany PAL, our mission is to give back to the community and support our youth in every way possible,” continued Bushnauskas. “We are excited to continue growing our partnership with the Mayor’s office and the Police Department to further this mission. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of our young residents and ensure that they know their community stands behind them.”

The Parsippany PAL is committed to fostering a strong, supportive community and looks forward to future opportunities to collaborate with local organizations, the Mayor’s office, and law enforcement to continue making a positive difference in the lives of Parsippany’s youth.

For more information about the Parsippany Police Athletic League and how you can get involved, please visit our website at www.parsippanypal.org  or info@parsippanypal.org.

PARSIPPANY — On August 18, 2024, the Murti Pratishtha of Shri Nilkanth Varni Maharaj was splendidly conducted at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Parsippany. This sacred ceremony, marking the installation and consecration of the murti of Shri Nilkanth Varni Maharaj, was a significant event for the mandir’s community of devotees.

The day commenced with a vibrant Nagar Yatra at 1 p.m., a grand procession in which devotees, known as haribhakto, fervently accompanied the murti through the streets surrounding the mandir. The atmosphere was filled with the sounds of devotional songs and traditional dances performed by the mandir’s youth, reflecting their deep faith and enthusiasm. This lively parade set a joyous tone for the day, bringing the community together in a shared spirit of devotion and celebration.

Following the procession, a Vedic Mahapuja was conducted by revered Pujya Santo, with hundreds of haribhakto participating in the sacred ritual. The Mahapuja, a Vedic prayer ceremony, is an elaborate and highly esteemed practice to purify the participants before the murti pratishtha. As part of the preparations, devotees also presented a grand annakut, offering a wide array of vegetarian dishes, predominantly Gujarati sweets and snacks, to Nilkanth Varni Maharaj.

The murti pratishtha (consecration ceremony) was led by Pujya Yagnavallabh Swami and attended by esteemed Pujya Santo, including Pujya Mangalswarup Swami, Pujya Shantyogi Swami, Pujya Adarshnayan Swami, and Pujya Rajendra Swami. This ritual, symbolizing the transformation of the murti into a living deity imbued with divine energy, is a fundamental aspect of Hindu worship. The ceremony included the chanting of sacred mantras and the performance of traditional rites, culminating in the first abhishek (ritual bathing) of the murti by the Santo.

The event was further highlighted by the presence of Parsippany’s Mayor, James R. Barberio, who attended to witness the historic ceremony and show his support for the vibrant Hindu community in Parsippany. His attendance underscored the importance of the occasion and the strong relationship between the local government and the Hindu community.

The significance of this Murti Pratishtha extends beyond the ceremony itself. For the devotees of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Parsippany, the ability to perform abhishek on the murti of Shri Nilkanth Varni Maharaj holds deep spiritual importance. It enables them to offer personal prayers and seek blessings on significant occasions such as birthdays, wedding anniversaries, or remembrances of loved ones. This practice fosters a deeper personal connection to the divine, providing a source of solace, inspiration, and divine grace.

Dear Editor:

I read John Inglesino’s letter touting the so-called benefits of PILOT Programs from his point of view, which is skewed since the PILOTS benefit him financially. During the hurried passage of three PILOT initiatives in November and December of 2023, it became known that not only was Mr Inglesino on the city payroll to the tune of nearly $200,000, but he was also representing the developers requesting the PILOTS, also known as Tax Abatements.

Mr Inglesino’s duties working for Parsippany last year were to oversee and prosecute requests for OPRA materials and property tax challenges. Therefore, it would appear that since John Inglesino did not recuse himself, he was representing both the city and developer on the same project! To say that was a curious situation would be kind. During many town council meetings, resident after resident questioned the Mayor about how this could be, only to have Mayor Barberio assert that all was well and no conflict of interest was evident to him. The mayor was and still is in the minority in that opinion.

One thing Mr. Inglesino did get correct was that the Board of Education will be fully funded. What he left out was that any shortfall, and at this point in time, it appears certain there will be a shortfall in money from the PILOT projects sooner or later to pay towards the BOE, will have to be made up by the current taxpayers of Parsippany.

Now, the mayor will use every scare tactic he can think of to hype his love affair with all the PILOT programs that will surely be suggested in the coming months. I, for one, will not be taking Mayor Barberio’s statements at face value.

Sherral Suarez

PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis International has dedicated itself to improving communities by supporting children and their families for over a century. Founded in 1915, Kiwanis has become a global organization with a strong local presence, where volunteers engage in hands-on service, fundraising, and leadership development. In New Jersey, the impact of Kiwanis is profound, with local clubs tackling issues ranging from youth development to food insecurity. Today, Kiwanis boasts 445,167 family members worldwide, performs 7,700,000 hours of service each year, reaches an average of 106 children per member, and in 2023 alone, the Kiwanis Children’s Fund granted $1,134,856 to those in need.

What is Kiwanis?

Kiwanis is a global service organization that empowers individuals to contribute to their communities. Operating in over eighty countries, each Kiwanis club tailors its efforts to meet the specific needs of its community, all while sharing the same mission: “Serving the Children of the World.” Kiwanis clubs lead various initiatives, from food drives and educational scholarships to youth mentoring programs, fostering the development of future leaders through programs like K-Kids, Key Club, Builders Club, and Circle K.

Frank Cahill: A Visionary Leader for New Jersey Kiwanis

In New Jersey, the Kiwanis legacy is marked by its long history of addressing local issues and supporting community development. Frank Cahill, the newly elected Governor-Elect of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis, is at the helm of this tradition. Cahill’s journey with Kiwanis began as a young man eager to find his place in the community. Now, he stands ready to lead the organization into a new era.

At the NJ District Kiwanis International annual meeting in Reading, PA, Cahill was elected Governor-Elect for the 2024-2025 service year. He will assume the leadership role as Governor in the 2025-2026 service year. Reflecting on his first Kiwanis meeting, Cahill recalls being inspired by the seasoned members who spoke passionately about service projects. That moment sparked a lifelong commitment to community service, one small act of kindness at a time. His ascent from a dedicated member to Governor-Elect was not sudden but marked by a steady, unwavering dedication to improving the lives of those around him.

“I’m motivated by the legacy of service we’ve built over the years,” Cahill says, his voice resonating with determination. His vision is clear: to strengthen community outreach, engage more members, and ensure that every club continues to serve as a beacon of hope in their neighborhoods. For Cahill, it’s not just about numbers; it’s about the impact. “We serve one child, one community at a time,” he often says, echoing the mission that drives every Kiwanis member.

The NJ Kiwanis Leadership Team: A Collective Commitment to Service

Cahill is part of a newly elected leadership team that brings together a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to expanding Kiwanis’ impact across New Jersey. The team includes District Governor Martin Slezak, District Treasurer Scott Wiese, and District Secretary Helene Meissner.

District Governor Martin Slezak began his Kiwanis journey in high school, where a scholarship from the Kiwanis Club of Keyport set him on a path that would lead him to become the youngest Governor in the organization’s history. Slezak is committed to expanding Kiwanis’ reach and addressing critical issues like youth homelessness, a cause close to his heart.

Scott Wiese, the new District Treasurer, brings financial expertise from his background in wealth management. Wiese is focused on ensuring that Kiwanis remains financially strong, allowing the organization to continue its impactful work, particularly in supporting educational initiatives for youth.

Helene Meissner, the District Secretary, has been a dedicated Kiwanian for 35 years. Her experience and passion for the organization will be crucial in driving membership growth and revitalizing clubs that may be struggling. Meissner is determined to blend traditional values with new ideas, ensuring Kiwanis remains a vibrant and relevant force in the community.

Looking Ahead

With Frank Cahill as Governor-Elect and the new leadership team at the helm, the New Jersey District of Kiwanis is poised to continue its tradition of service while embracing new challenges and opportunities. Together, they are driving the organization forward, blending tradition with innovation to meet the evolving needs of their communities. Under Cahill’s leadership, Kiwanis will continue to positively impact the lives of children and families throughout the state, ensuring that the legacy of service in New Jersey endures for generations to come.

MORRIS COUNTY — The Masterwork Chorus welcomes aspiring singers and invites new members to audition and become part of a celebrated musical tradition. With over 100 voices strong, the chorus offers a dynamic and enriching experience for those passionate about choral singing and eager to perform at a high level.

Rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings in Chatham, allowing singers to hone their craft and prepare for prestigious performances. Those interested are encouraged to attend an open rehearsal this Wednesday or next, where they can experience firsthand the camaraderie and musical excellence that define the Masterwork Chorus.

In addition to the regular rehearsal schedule, new members will have the unique opportunity to perform at Carnegie Hall on December 19, 2024, marking a milestone in their musical journey. This annual event is a testament to the chorus’s commitment to artistic excellence and offers members the chance to share the stage with some of the world’s finest musicians.

For more information about joining the Masterwork Chorus, including audition details, visit Masterwork Membership or email membership@masterwork.org. This is more than just a chance to sing—it’s an opportunity to be part of something extraordinary, making your mark on one of the most prestigious stages in the world.

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Rotary Club is inviting the community to participate in its Annual Bike Ride Fundraiser, which will take place on Sunday, September 29, at Smith Field Park. This event, a staple in the local community, offers cyclists of all skill levels an opportunity to come together for a day of fun, fitness, and philanthropy.

Participants will embark on a scenic 16-kilometer (10-mile) ride through Parsippany, starting at 8:00 a.m. and concluding by 10:30 a.m. The event is free to join, making it accessible for everyone, but donations are highly encouraged to support the Rotary’s charitable initiatives. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Rotary’s “Service Above Self” programs, which fund a variety of local charities and community service projects.

“This bike ride is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of our community’s commitment to service and helping those in need,” said a spokesperson for the Parsippany Rotary Club. “We encourage everyone to come out, whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a fun way to support a great cause.”

The ride is well-supported by the Parsippany Police Department, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. Bikes of all shapes and sizes are welcome, with the exception of motorized vehicles, though E-bikes are permitted. This event is perfect for both beginners and experienced cyclists.

In addition to the ride, participants will have the opportunity to network with fellow cyclists, meet members of the Rotary Club, and learn more about the impact of their charitable contributions. The event is supported by several local organizations, including Fun4All Foundation, Gandhian Society, CPA Network, Sewa USA, and many others, demonstrating the broad community support for this initiative.

Registration is simple for those interested in participating. Click here or contact one of the event organizers. Donations can also be made directly to the Rotary Club by clicking here.

“We are proud to host this event and are grateful for the overwhelming support from our community and sponsors,” added the spokesperson. “Together, we can make a significant impact and continue to support the vital work of the Rotary Club in Parsippany.”

For more information or to register for the event, please email rotaryparsippany@gmail.com or contact one of the event organizers. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to ride for a great cause and make a difference in your community!