PARSIPPANY — This stunning new construction, built-in 2024 by COSMO Builders, offers a thoughtful and modern colonial design that seamlessly blends luxury and practicality. Featuring five bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, and a three-car garage, this home is a rare gem in the highly sought-after Parsippany-Troy Hills neighborhood.

The home’s exterior boasts a stucco and stone frontage, creating an eye-catching and timeless curb appeal. The asphalt-paved driveway with Belgian block curbing and the Clamshell Trex deck with vinyl wraps enhance the home’s aesthetic while offering durability and low maintenance.

Interior Features

• Marvelous Kitchen: The kitchen features KitchenAid appliances, 42-inch Fabuwood cabinets, custom quartz countertops on the kitchen island, and granite finishes in the bathrooms. Under-cabinet lighting and an oversized pantry complete this culinary space.
• Modern Living Spaces: The home includes an open loft/library, L-shaped stairs, and a gas-fired fireplace with granite accents and a mantle. The hardwood flooring throughout adds warmth and elegance.
• Master Suite Retreat: The master bedroom features a tray ceiling, a luxurious Kohler Jacuzzi tub, branded glass stall shower doors, and a full bath mirror.
• Enhanced Details: Wide crown molding, chair rail, flute molding, and picture-frame molding provide sophisticated finishing touches.

Additional Features

• Energy Efficiency: Windows with heat lock control, an attic fan, and zoned air conditioning with smart thermostats.
• Convenience: A laundry room with two full closets and a separate entrance for the first-floor bedroom and bath.
• Basement and Storage: The unfinished basement features nine-foot-high ceilings and dry lock for moisture protection, providing ample storage space.
• Exterior Upgrades: Six aluminum gutters with gutter guards and a big private backyard make this home as practical as beautiful.

Location

Located on a 0.34-acre lot in the desirable Parsippany-Troy Hills Township, this home is part of a thriving community known for its excellent schools, parks, and accessibility to major highways.

Property Details

• Property Type: Single-Family Home
• Year Built: 2024
• Last Sold: $1.3 million in 2024
• Price Per Square Foot: $360

This exquisite property at 110 Hawkins Avenue perfectly blends style, functionality, and luxury. Its spacious design, high-quality finishes, and desirable location make it stand out as a dream home for any buyer.

Other recent home sales in Parsippany:

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Recycling Center will be closed on December 24, 25, 2024, and January 1, 2025. Be sure to adjust your plans accordingly to keep your recycling on track.

Make Recycling Easier with the Recycle Coach App!
Simplify your recycling routine with the Recycle Coach App, your go-to tool for:

• Customized Schedules: Never miss a collection day.
• Set Reminders: Stay on top of your recycling tasks.
• Learn Proper Recycling Practices: Get clear guidance on what goes where.

The app is available for download on Google Play and the Apple Store, or visit Parsippany.net for more information.

Together, let’s reduce, reuse, and recycle smarter this holiday season!

MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) publicly applauded President-elect Donald Trump for taking a leadership role in the ongoing saga of drones flying over the night skies of New Jersey. Last week, Senator Pennacchio wrote a letter to ask the newly elected president to involve himself in the situation before his January 20th inauguration. (Click here to read the letter).

“I have zero faith in the current administration to be transparent with the American public,” said Senator Pennacchio. “After one month of gaslighting and secrecy, the Biden administration has shown a level of incompetence never seen in American public policy. My letter to President-elect Trump was to stir up our security agencies and force the Biden administration to give the American public answers – answers that now only the voice of Donald Trump can deliver.”  

During a press conference, President-elect Trump accused the Biden administration of holding back information from the American public. Previously, President Trump had chastised the current administration for its lack of transparency and even challenged the administration to “shoot down” the drones.

MORRIS COUNTY — Get ready to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style as First Night Morris County returns for its 33rd year on Tuesday, December 31. The annual alcohol-free event offers a spectacular lineup of 70 performances spanning theatre, music, visual arts, and children’s programs across 23 venues throughout Morristown. Festivities kick off at 4:30 p.m. and promise an unforgettable evening for all ages.

Exciting Programming Highlights
This year’s event features a variety of engaging activities, including:

• Historical Performances: Tour the Schuyler-Hamilton House at 5 Olyphant Place and interact with famous historical figures from the Revolutionary War era.
• Children’s Fun Festival: From 4:45 to 9:00 p.m., enjoy activities designed for families at Morristown High School.
• Film Festival: Starting at 6:00 p.m., enjoy screenings of films for all tastes.

Fireworks and Midnight Countdown
The evening wouldn’t be complete without a dazzling fireworks show at 9:15 p.m., followed by a lively countdown to midnight to ring in 2025.

Ticket Information
Tickets are available at the following prices:

• $25.00 per person or $90.00 for a four-pack if purchased by Saturday, December 21.
• $30.00 per person and $95.00 for a four-pack from Sunday, December 22, to December 31.

Tickets include access to live-stream performances and select on-demand programs through the First Night Morris mobile app.

Accessibility and Parking
Complimentary parking will be available at all Morristown parking garages starting at 4:00 p.m. All venues are within walking distance, ensuring easy accessibility for attendees.

For a full schedule of programming and more information, visit firstnightmorris.org.

Don’t miss this incredible celebration of arts, culture, and community as we welcome 2025 in a safe, festive, and family-friendly way!

MORRIS COUNTY — The Mayors Wellness Campaign is excited to announce the return of Friday Nights at Mennen Arena, a 10-week series of fun-filled, family-friendly events designed to create a safe and engaging environment for residents of all ages. This exciting initiative runs every Friday from January 3, 2025, to March 7, 2025, from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m., at Mennen Arena, located at 161 Hanover Avenue, Morristown.

For just $10.00 per person (discounted from the regular $15.00), attendees can enjoy an evening of music, themed activities, and community bonding. Hosted by the NJ Coalition for Education and Positive Choices in partnership with Mennen Arena, this event series offers a safe, drug-free environment that brings people together.

Each week features a unique theme, ensuring there’s something for everyone:

• Law Enforcement Night: Meet local heroes and explore their equipment.
• Firefighter Night: Learn about fire safety and connect with firefighters.
• Martial Arts & Fitness Night: Participate in interactive fitness and self-defense demonstrations.
• Dance Night: Get moving with music and dance activities for all ages.

A snack bar will be open for the event (snacks not included), adding to the festive atmosphere. Children attending will also have the opportunity to receive free photo IDs, provided by the Morris County Sheriff’s Department.

Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, a key organizer of the event, expressed his enthusiasm for bringing the community together in such a meaningful way. “This program provides families with a wonderful way to connect, stay active, and enjoy a safe space during the winter months,” Gallagher said.

For more information about the event or to reach out with questions, contact Thomas “Ace” Gallagher at acegallagher@gmail.com or mayorswellness@hanovertownship.com.

Don’t miss this opportunity to make memories, meet local heroes, and enjoy a season of fun and fitness at Friday Nights at Mennen Arena!

MORRIS COUNTY — The Board of County Commissioners congratulates Miriam Acevedo on her well-earned retirement after more than 31 years of dedicated service with the Morris County Office of Temporary Assistance (OTA).

Morris County Assistant Administrator Brian Murray and Human Services Director Kasey Errico visited the OTA Dover Outstation Office on Friday to present Miriam with a framed resolution of honor on behalf of the Commissioners. They were joined by OTA Director Gary Denamen and Deputy Director Maria Fodali, who also offered their congratulations.

Miriam began her career with OTA in 1993, advancing to a supervisor role she held for over 18 years. Her exemplary leadership and outstanding customer service earned her formal recognition as she oversaw Medicaid programs and played a pivotal role in managing critical services. In 2017, Miriam led the development of the Dover Outstation Office and guided its relocation during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring essential resources remained accessible to the Dover community.

Miriam’s compassion, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to the people of Morris County have left a lasting impact on OTA and the countless individuals she supported throughout her career.

“Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved, the Board of County Commissioners of Morris County, New Jersey, commends Miriam Acevedo for her exceptional service to the Morris County Office of Temporary Assistance and wishes her a fulfilling and joyful retirement.”

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners tonight presented a $35 million capital spending plan for 2025 to maintain the critical infrastructure supporting the education, public safety, and human services programs that enhance our residents’ quality of life.

The Capital Budget Committee, led by Commissioners Tayfun Selen, Deborah Smith and Stephen H. Shaw, chairman of the committee, outlined the proposal during a public meeting in Morristown. The total spending plan is $48,585,406 but will be offset by $13,183,294 in various grants.

The capital spending plan focuses on continued investments in facility upgrades, maintaining infrastructure from roads and bridges to dam safety and intersection improvements, and investing in our future, including support for the County College of Morris’s construction of a Center for Health Professions.

“Months ago, the Capital Budget Committee and our administrative staff began reviewing capital investment proposals from all county departments, constitutional officers and related county agencies. It is a long-standing practice that has enabled us to plan our capital expenditures early each year and, as we will in 2025, move forward on adopting a complete county budget so that our capital projects may be put out to bid early and get underway,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Shaw.

Morris County’s inventory of capital responsibility, which requires regular maintenance and upgrades, is extensive and diverse. It includes much more than the Morris County Administration & Records Building in Morristown and the Human Services and Law & Public Safety complexes in Morris Township and Parsippany-Troy Hills Township.

The Morris County infrastructure responsibility also includes, in part:

• 287 miles of county roads in all 39 Morris County municipalities
• 1,000 bridges and culverts throughout all Morris County municipalities
• 3 Freight Railroads
• 1,200 vehicles and or pieces of equipment used by various county agencies
• 3.4 million square feet of buildings and structures
• 20,450 acres of parkland & 38 recreational facilities

The County of Morris also is responsible for:

• Maintaining all trees within county road rights-of-way
• Facilities required by the judiciary, sheriff, law, and public safety
• Mosquito Control services throughout all of Morris County

“Our 2025 capital spending plan allocates $8.58 million for bridge and culvert replacements, including heavily traveled spans in Montville, Mount Olive, and Jefferson Township, continuing Morris County’s leadership in bridge upgrades. We also anticipate resurfacing another 20.6 miles of county roads this coming year,” said Commissioner Selen.

The plan designates $11 million for resurfacing roadways in 11 municipalities next year, bringing the total to more than 230 miles of roads resurfaced since 2016.

The plan also includes a $4.46 million investment in the County College of Morris’s ongoing plan to construct an 80,000-square-foot Center for Health Professions on campus to support educational excellence and workforce development.

“We are dedicated to strengthening education, enhancing public safety, and supporting human services,” said Commissioner Smith. “These investments will provide vital training and equipment for public safety personnel, and ensure our park system, which is the largest county park system in New Jersey, remains safe and accessible.”

The 2025 Capital Spending Highlights

• $2.56 million for intersection improvements, including:

• Ridgedale Avenue and Garfield Avenue in East Hanover
• Main Street Improvements in the Town of Boonton
• Guide Rail upgrades and installations throughout the County
• $11 million for roadway resurfacing in 11 municipalities, including:

• 3.3 miles of Green Pond Road (CR 513) from Jacobs Road south to Upper Hibernia Road in Rockaway Township
• 2.5 miles of Spring Valley Road (CR 601) from Village Road to Blackberry Lane in Harding Township
• 2.5 miles of Sussex Turnpike (CR 617) from West Hanover Avenue to Dover Chester Road in Randolph Township
• 2.5 miles of Berkshire Valley Road (CR 699) in Jefferson Township
• $8.58 million for bridge and culvert projects, including:

• Replacement of Bridge #433, Old Bloomfield Avenue in Montville Township
• Bridge #1138 Pleasant Hill Road in Mount Olive
• Bridge #927 Cozy Lake Road in Jefferson Township

Strategic Investments in Human Services and Public Safety

• $1.5 million for the replacement of workstations to maximize usable space in the Office of Temporary Assistance in the Department of Human Services
• $4.87 million for the replacement of Sheriff’s K-9 Unit Offices and Kennels

PARSIPPANY — The Lake Hiawatha Seniors Club rang in the holiday season with an unforgettable Christmas party at the Hanover Manor. Members gathered on December 18th for an afternoon filled with festive cheer, delicious food, and heartwarming camaraderie. The event was a true testament to the spirit of the season and the strong sense of community that thrives within the Lake Hiawatha Seniors Club.

The celebration was made even more special by the presence of local dignitaries, including Mayor Barberio and Councilman Justin Musella. 

The event wouldn’t have been possible without the leadership of the Lake Hiawatha Seniors Club, and no one exemplifies this more than Club President Vicki Lambert Rice. Her dedication and tireless efforts to create a warm, engaging environment for seniors in the community have earned her the admiration and respect of everyone involved with the club. Under Lambert-Rice’s leadership, the club has flourished, offering its members numerous opportunities for socialization, enrichment, and support throughout the year.

Councilman Musella was invited to say a few words where he reaffirmed his commitment to providing the utmost support to Parsippany’s seniors. In his remarks, Musella affirmed his dedication to ensuring Parsippany remains an affordable and supportive place for its senior residents. He expressed his commitment to advocating for programs that cater to the needs of the senior community, ensuring that they continue to thrive in a welcoming and accessible environment. Musella said “I’d like to praise Vicki for everything she does to create a community where our seniors feel valued, supported, and able to enjoy their golden years,” Musella said. “It’s an honor to be here today with all of you, and I look forward to working together to make Parsippany a great place for seniors to live and thrive.”

The event also featured a festive lunch, and holiday music, filling the air with joy and laughter. Members shared stories, exchanged gifts, and enjoyed the company of friends old and new. For many, it was a chance to reflect on the past year and look forward to the promise of the year ahead.

For more information on joining the Lake Hiawatha Seniors click here.

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills has taken a significant step in regulating the local cannabis industry with the adoption of Ordinance No. 2024:21. On Tuesday, December 17, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council voted unanimously to allow “Cannabis Retailer.”

This measure establishes a detailed framework for licensing, operating, and taxing cannabis businesses within the township, aligning with state laws enacted after the legalization of adult-use cannabis in New Jersey.

Cannabis Retailer is defined as “a person or entity holding a Class 5 cannabis license issued by the State of New Jersey, authorized to purchase or acquire usable cannabis from cultivators and cannabis items from manufacturers or wholesalers. Cannabis retailers sell these products directly to consumers through retail locations. They may also utilize cannabis delivery services or certified cannabis handlers to facilitate off-premises delivery of cannabis items and related supplies. Additionally, cannabis retailers are required to fulfill consumer orders submitted via cannabis delivery services, with the delivery service completing the delivery to the consumer.”

A Structured Approach to Licensing The ordinance permits six classes of cannabis businesses to operate under strict regulations:

• Cannabis cultivators, manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, and testing labs. A limited number of licenses have been allocated for each class to ensure responsible growth in the cannabis sector. For example, five licenses are available for cultivators, seven for manufacturers, and three for retail dispensaries.

Robust Oversight The township’s Business Administrator will act as the local licensing authority, coordinating with the newly formed Cannabis Advisory Committee (CAC). This committee, comprised of township leaders, will review applications and ensure compliance with zoning laws, public safety, and operational standards.

“Our goal is to integrate cannabis businesses into the community in a way that protects public health and safety while encouraging economic development,” said the Mayor.

Community-Centered Regulations To maintain community integrity, the ordinance enforces stringent regulations. Cannabis retailers may operate only between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on weekdays, and consumption on-site is strictly prohibited. Facilities must implement advanced security measures, including 24/7 video surveillance, odor control systems, and secure fencing.

Additionally, retail dispensaries are prohibited within 100 feet of school properties, reflecting the township’s commitment to prioritizing family-friendly spaces.

Economic Benefits Through Taxation The ordinance also establishes transfer and user taxes, ensuring the township shares in the economic benefits of cannabis operations. A 2% tax is levied on sales by cultivators, manufacturers, and retailers, with a 1% tax on wholesalers. These funds will be reinvested into local infrastructure, public services, and community initiatives.

Strict Enforcement and Accountability Violators of the ordinance face significant penalties, including fines of up to $5,000 per day and possible license suspension. Public nuisance declarations will target any unpermitted operations to preserve community standards.

Looking Ahead Parsippany-Troy Hills is among the municipalities leading the charge in creating a well-regulated cannabis industry. With a focus on public safety, economic growth, and community integration, the township aims to set a benchmark for other communities navigating the opportunities and challenges of cannabis legalization.

Residents and businesses interested in applying for licenses or learning more about the ordinance can contact the township’s Business Administrator or visit the municipal website for further details.

PARSIPPANY — Anikait Sota, founder of the Parsippany Cube Club (PCC), and a student at Mountain Lakes High School, continues his inspiring mission of community service by donating another $1,000 to the Parsippany Food Pantry. This marks yet another significant contribution by Anikait and his club, reinforcing their dedication to giving back to the local community.

The Parsippany Cube Club, founded in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, began as a small initiative to teach students how to solve the Rubik’s Cube. Anikait launched the club as a way to stay connected and spread joy during a difficult time. What started as online classes held through Zoom quickly grew into a vibrant community of cubing enthusiasts. The club now boasts over 200 students and has introduced people of all ages to the art and challenge of solving twisty puzzles. From the beginner-friendly 3×3 cube to advanced puzzles like the Pyraminx and Skewb, the club offers lessons for all skill levels. Students often begin with little to no experience, but with guidance and practice, they see significant improvement in their solving times. For many, what starts as a hobby becomes a passion and a source of personal growth.

Anikait’s idea of combining his love for cubing with giving back has been the driving force behind the club’s success. Instead of charging high fees, the club collects small contributions for lessons, workshops, and events, with all proceeds going to charitable causes like the Parsippany Food Pantry. These funds help local families by providing essential food supplies and resources, especially during challenging times. The pantry remains a lifeline for many in the Parsippany area, and donations like Anikait’s ensure that it continues to serve those in need. This most recent $1,000 donation reflects Anikait’s unwavering dedication to helping his community.

In addition to its charitable mission, the club serves as a platform for students to develop valuable skills. Solving Rubik’s Cubes is not just about solving puzzles—it teaches patience, focus, and problem-solving. Students learn to analyze complex challenges and persevere through difficulties, skills that extend far beyond cubing. The club hosts regular workshops and competitions, encouraging students to challenge themselves while building confidence and teamwork. Events like the club’s summer boot camp and local competitions bring together young cubers, fostering a sense of community while continuing to raise funds for charity.

Anikait Sota’s leadership and vision have turned the Parsippany Cube Club into much more than a hobby group. It is a testament to how a simple idea, fueled by passion and purpose, can transform lives. His actions inspire others to contribute to their communities, showing that even small gestures can create meaningful change. As the club continues to grow, so does its impact. Their donation total to food pantries and charities across New Jersey is now $15,000. Anikait’s recent donation serves as a reminder of the power of combining education, passion, and generosity. For families relying on the Parsippany Food Pantry, his contributions make a real difference, ensuring that the community remains supported. The Parsippany Cube Club is not only helping students solve puzzles but is also solving real-world problems, one twist and turn at a time.

PARSIPPANY — Justin Nguyen, a scout with Scouts BSA Troop 72 and a student at Parsippany Hills High School, attended the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council meeting on Tuesday, December 17, to fulfill a requirement for his Communications Merit Badge. Justin, currently a high school sophomore, participated as part of his journey toward achieving Eagle Rank.

To earn the Communications Merit Badge, scouts select from a variety of requirements designed to enhance their communication skills. One such requirement involves attending a public meeting—such as a city council session, school board meeting, or debate—where different points of view are expressed on a single issue. Scouts practice active listening, take detailed notes on each perspective, and prepare an objective report to share with their merit badge counselor.

The Communications Merit Badge emphasizes the importance of effective and ethical communication in various contexts, channels, and cultures. It is one of the many badges required on the path to earning the prestigious Eagle Scout rank.

About Troop 72
Founded in 1954, Troop 72 has served the Parsippany area for decades, providing opportunities for youth development and leadership. On March 12, 2019, the troop expanded its legacy by becoming a linked troop, offering the same exceptional program to both boys and girls.

Troop 72 scouts come from all parts of Parsippany and beyond, attending local schools like Brooklawn Middle School, Central Middle School, Parsippany High School, Parsippany Hills High School, and others outside the Parsippany public school system. The troop is sponsored by Saint Peter the Apostle Church and holds meetings in the cafeteria at All Saints Academy.

Committed to community service, Troop 72 actively participates in projects with local churches and civic organizations. They also support the annual food drive benefiting the Saint Peter’s food pantry and attend Scout Sunday at Saint Peter’s Church. Troop 72 welcomes community requests for service and is always eager to help.

Dear Editor:

Mayor Barberio, your sworn duty is to actively represent Parsippany and pressure state and federal officials to take meaningful action on the drone threat. Sitting on the sidelines while Pequannock’s Mayor—who serves a population one-fourth the size of Parsippany—steps up as the public face of this issue is nothing short of embarrassing. If he’s doing your job, maybe you should consider cutting him a check.

Your excuses for skipping the state drone briefing are laughable and insulting. On the Bill Spadea radio show and in your press release, you dismissed the meeting as “useless,” parroting Assemblyman Brian Bergen’s claim that it was a “waste of time.”

Then you had the audacity to suggest that local seniors “look forward to your presence,” as if that justifies your absence. Let’s be clear: our local seniors, who are taxpayers, would understand that attending a critical public safety briefing on a national security issue is more important than making small talk at a party. And if you couldn’t attend, a responsible official would have sent a delegate.

This meeting wasn’t just about getting updates—it was a chance for mayors to hold state and federal officials accountable. Your no-show is yet another example of your chronic prioritization of parties and political events over the responsibilities of your office.

Councilman Justin Musella was right to call you out. Leaders who put holiday parties ahead of statewide security-sensitive briefings deserve scrutiny. That’s called accountability. You don’t get to write off the meeting as unimportant when you didn’t even bother to show up.

Parsippany deserves better. It’s time for you to step aside, Jamie Barberio, and pursue your social calendar as a private citizen. Stop wasting taxpayer dollars and time with your poor judgment.

And Mr. Spadea, stop giving Barberio cover. Allowing him to use your platform to deflect from his failures diminishes both your credibility and that of your radio station. Parsippany residents deserve the truth—not excuses.

Signed,
Tony Longo