PARSIPPANY — PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment – December 18, 2024.
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Video: Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – December 18, 2024
Letter to Editor: Resident Defends Mayor Barberio’s Senior Focus, Calls Out Hypocrisy from Critics Boyle and Philhower
Dear Editor,
As a long-time resident of Parsippany, I feel compelled to address the recent criticism directed at Mayor Barberio regarding his decision to prioritize seniors. I believe it is essential to recognize the hypocrisy displayed by some of his critics, particularly Gay Boyle and Mark Philhower.
Is it not curious that these residents, who previously attempted to defame elected officials in our community in June, are now taking the high ground on leadership and accountability? Their statements seem less about genuine concern for public safety. It is easy to criticize from the sidelines, but we must ask ourselves: where were these voices when they had the opportunity to unite our community rather than divide it?
I urge Boyle and Philhower to reflect on their actions before casting stones. Their previous attempts to undermine elected officials raise questions about their motivations. Are they truly concerned about the welfare of our community, or are they just political pawns waiting for orders from the puppet master?
It is time for all of us, including those in positions of criticism, to focus on constructive dialogue rather than personal attacks. We should be working together to hold our leaders accountable while supporting them to keep Parsippany safe and prosperous. Let’s prioritize collaboration over division and ensure that our community remains strong.
Sincerely,
Rosalie Fasano
Parsippany Resident
Lake Hiawatha Firefighter’s Selfless Act Saves a Life
PARSIPPANY — For Ryan Aton, a firefighter with the Lake Hiawatha Fire Department, serving the community has always been a driving force in his life. Over the past year and a half, he has been a dedicated member of the department, protecting lives and property across the town. Yet, his commitment to service extends far beyond battling flames and responding to emergencies.
Recently, Aton became a life-saving bone marrow donor for a 13-year-old girl in critical need. His journey began seven years ago when he first signed up for the national bone marrow registry. Although he didn’t initially receive a match, he never hesitated to stay on the list, holding onto the hope that one day he could make a difference. That moment arrived in late October, with a phone call that would change two lives forever.
“They told me they had a match and that it was for a young girl,” Aton said. “It wasn’t even a question. I knew I had to do it.”
Matching bone marrow donors and recipients is often a long and challenging process, but in this case, urgency and determination prevailed. Within two weeks, arrangements were made for Aton to travel to Washington, D.C., for the procedure. The donation took place just days before Halloween, and thanks to his selflessness, the recipient is now on the road to recovery.
Aton’s decision to donate came with challenges. As a husband and father of three, including a newborn, it was not a decision he made lightly. However, with the unwavering support of his family, he embraced the opportunity to save a life. His wife, recognizing the gravity of his choice, stood by his side, ensuring he had the strength and peace of mind to go through with the procedure.
“I always wanted to give back, to make a real difference,” Aton said. “This was my opportunity to do that.”
His fellow firefighters were quick to celebrate his bravery, highlighting the selflessness and compassion that define him not only as a firefighter but as a person.
“This shows the heart of what it means to be a firefighter,” said one of Aton’s colleagues. “It’s not just about running into burning buildings. It’s about being there for people, no matter the situation. Aton’s willingness to risk his well-being to save a young girl he’s never met is nothing short of heroic.”
A lifelong Parsippany resident who has lived in Lake Hiawatha since he was nine, Aton has always felt a deep connection to his community. Becoming a firefighter was his way of giving back, but this recent act of courage has touched lives far beyond his hometown.
As the holiday season approaches, Aton’s story reminds us of the extraordinary capacity for kindness and bravery in our community. The young girl he helped is now recovering, and her family has gained hope for a brighter future, all because of a man who simply wanted to make a difference.
Aton’s actions exemplify the spirit of Parsippany: a town filled with individuals who go above and beyond for others. His story is not just one of heroism but of the profound impact one person can have when they choose to put others first.
Letter to the Editor: State Drone Briefing And Missing Mayor
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
Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting Scheduled for December 17
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council has scheduled a meeting for Tuesday, December 17, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will occur in the Council Chambers at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard within the Parsippany Municipal Building.
Formal action may or may not be taken.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for the meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request an auxiliary aid.
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Click here for the 2024 calendar.
Mayor James Barberio
Council President Paul Carifi, Jr.
Council Vice President Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella
Councilman Matt McGrath
Councilwoman Judy Hernandez
Hindi Conversation & Culture Kicks Off Monthly Series at Morris County Library
MORRIS COUNTY — A new cultural initiative is set to captivate residents who have a passion for language and tradition. The Morris County Library will host “Hindi Conversation & Culture,” a free monthly event designed to immerse participants in conversational Hindi and the vibrant traditions of India.
The program will debut on Thursday, January 9, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Morris County Library’s Conference Room, located at 30 East Hanover Avenue, Whippany. It will then recur on the second Thursday of every month, with upcoming sessions scheduled for February 13, March 13, April 10, and May 8.
This event offers attendees the opportunity to practice conversational Hindi while exploring India’s rich culture, festivals, music, and traditions. Activities include:
- Engaging in Hindi conversations
- Discussing books, Bollywood, and current events
- Celebrating Hindi-speaking communities
Participants of all ages are welcome, though a basic knowledge of Hindi is recommended. Organizers promise a fun and friendly atmosphere to foster learning and connection.
“There’s so much to explore and celebrate within the Hindi-speaking world,” said the event coordinator. “Our goal is to create a space where everyone can come together to learn, share, and grow.”
Contact Information:
Phone: 973-285-6384
Email: mclhindiconversation@gmail.com
No registration is required, and interested individuals can join directly at the venue. Make sure to mark your calendars for this enriching experience!
Kiwanis Enhances Sports Experience with $5,000 PAL Donation
PARSIPPANY – The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany has proudly donated $5,000 to the Parsippany Police Athletic League (PAL) for the purchase of a new scoreboard.
New Jersey District Governor-Elect Frank Cahill explained, “During a recent visit to the PAL building with former Executive Director Thomas Bushnauskas, he shared that none of the scoreboards in the three gyms were functional. Tom expressed his hope to provide working scoreboards to enhance the sports experience for players, coaches, and spectators. He also mentioned that the Woman’s Club of Greater Parsippany was raising funds to purchase one scoreboard. Inspired by this need, I proposed to the Board of Directors of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation that we fund another scoreboard to support Parsippany’s children. The board unanimously approved an allocation of $2,500.”
Carol Tiesi, Foundation President, followed up by submitting a matching grant request to the New Jersey District Kiwanis Foundation. Recognizing the value of this project for the Parsippany community, the NJ District approved an additional $2,500 grant, bringing the total to $5,000. This partnership ensures that the PAL can offer a significantly improved athletic experience.
“I am proud of Parsippany’s service organizations, like the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, for addressing critical community needs and making a meaningful impact,” said Mayor James Barberio.
Doreen Brennan, President of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, added, “It’s inspiring to see the difference we can make when we come together as a community. This scoreboard represents more than just equipment—it symbolizes our dedication to youth development and creating a supportive environment for Parsippany’s children.”
“Supporting Parsippany’s youth is central to our mission,” said Carol Tiesi. “Providing funding for a new scoreboard not only improves the sports experience but also strengthens our commitment to building a vibrant and connected community.”
Morris County First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood has been recognized with the 2024 County Prosecutor’s Outstanding Advocacy Over a Career Award
MORRIS COUNTY — This prestigious honor was presented at the County Prosecutor’s Association College in Atlantic City on November 25, 2024. The college is an annual two-day training program at Caesars Hotel & Casino, in which county prosecutors, assistant prosecutors, detectives, and members of the state Attorney General’s Office take part in an array of breakout sessions on a variety of legal issues.
This Outstanding Advocacy award bestowed to First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood reflects the respect and professional recognition of the New Jersey prosecutorial field, as she was selected from the 21 County Prosecutor’s Offices statewide.
First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood has served as the First Assistant Prosecutor to Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll since January 4, 2021. She has been an Assistant Prosecutor for thirty years and specifically with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office for the last 27. She is recognized as a Certified Criminal Trial Attorney by the Supreme Court of New Jersey since 2011.
Prior to her appointment as First Assistant Prosecutor, FAP Calderwood held the title of Chief Assistant Prosecutor and managed the Tactical Division, including the Major Crimes, Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment and Domestic Violence Units, and the Courts & Administration Division, including the General Investigations and Pretrial Services Units. Prior to that, FAP Calderwood held the title of Executive Assistant Prosecutor and managed the entire legal staff. During her career, she was also the Supervising Assistant Prosecutor of the Professional Standards Unit, the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, and the Trial Division.
FAP Calderwood has prosecuted numerous high-profile, complex jury trials involving Murder, Aggravated Manslaughter/Vehicular Homicide, and Aggravated Sexual Assault cases with adult and child victims. Throughout her prosecutorial career, FAP Calderwood has lectured often on various legal and law enforcement topics at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, local schools, and to the community at large.
In May 2019, FAP Calderwood was honored by the Superior Court of New Jersey, Morris/Sussex Vicinage, and the Morris/Sussex County Bar Association for contributions to the justice system as part of the “Women Pioneers in the Law” exhibit. Since January of 2020, she has served as Co-Chair to the Morris County Bar Association’s Criminal Practice Committee. In June of 2022, the Morris County Bar Association awarded FAP Calderwood the “Criminal Practice Award” for her professionalism and dedication to the field.
Before joining the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in 1997, FAP Calderwood began her legal career with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office in 1994. While there, she was assigned to Appellate, Juvenile, Predisposition Court, and the Trial Team in which she represented the State in numerous jury trials.
FAP Calderwood earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from Moravian College in 1988 and her Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University School of Law in 1992. After graduating law school, FAP Calderwood served as the judicial law clerk to the Honorable Stephen F. Smith, Presiding Criminal Judge of the Superior Court in Morris County.
First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood said, “I am honored to receive this award from CPANJ and thank Prosecutor Carroll for nominating me and for everything he does for the office, law enforcement, and the community. Every success, every milestone, and every challenge overcome was made possible by the support, collaboration, and hard work of the assistant prosecutors, detectives, and support staff, both past and present, that I have had the pleasure of working with. I am grateful for the opportunity I have had in my career to serve the community and fight for justice.”
Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said, “First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood has served the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office admirably for nearly 30 years. She is a consummate prosecutor, and has absolute integrity, thorough legal skills, and is an excellent trial attorney who can be relied upon to lead any investigation, prosecution, or administration. She is especially skilled in leading and training Assistant Prosecutors in best practices, and how to achieve the balance between the stressors of professional and personal lives. For decades, she has exemplified the virtues all AP’s should strive towards – skill, passion, and dedication to serving the ideals of justice. She does so not just in mere words, but in her actions, ensuring the right thing is done in the right moment. FAP Calderwood has fought vociferously for just verdicts, while balancing the fairness towards defendants, with compassion to victims. Simply said, she is a complete prosecutor who has earned the respect of all with whom she interacts.”
Letter to the Editor: Mayor Barberio’s Missed Opportunity to Serve Parsippany
Dear Editor:
I was disheartened to hear about Mayor Barberio’s recent radio appearance on Bill Spadea’s show. While the mayor may have sounded offhanded, the reality is that many Parsippany residents are concerned about his priorities and actions—or, in this case, his lack of them.
This week, Mayor Barberio missed an important State Police drone briefing in Ewing Township, a meeting focused on security concerns that affect our community. At the time, he was attending a holiday party. While it’s understandable that public officials sometimes face scheduling conflicts, it’s disappointing to see the mayor prioritize a social event over an issue that impacts the safety and security of his constituents. Many other mayors—some of whom are part-time or unpaid—made attending this important briefing a priority.
It’s also concerning that while Mayor Barberio often engages in social media photo opportunities and attends community events, his focus on these activities seems to overshadow his core responsibilities. The optics of this are troubling, especially when compared to the serious nature of the issues at hand, such as the drone activity hovering over our township nightly.
Additionally, the mayor recently made the decision to rename a section of the police department after himself, yet skipped an essential briefing on security matters. This raises questions about where his priorities truly lie.
Bill Spadea, who has a significant platform, has the opportunity to ask Mayor Barberio the tough questions about his leadership and priorities. I hope he takes the time to challenge the mayor on these important issues, as residents deserve more than just platitudes and photo-ops.
At the end of the day, the people of Parsippany are looking for a mayor who will prioritize their safety and well-being, and who will be fully engaged in the responsibilities of office. It’s time for Mayor Barberio to refocus on serving the residents who elected him.
Goncalo Macedo
Parsippany Resident
Morris County Commissioners Issue Statement on Drone Activity
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners is calling on the federal government to marshal all federal resources at its disposal, including the military, to end the unauthorized flight of drones over our county and other parts of New Jersey.
We believe this to be a matter of national security, and as such our federal government has a duty to the people of New Jersey and the rest of the nation to identify the source of this incursion, be completely transparent about what is happening, put an end to the drones that have so alarmed our communities and implement the appropriate safeguards to protect our air space and our people, now and in the future.
Morris County and our communities have deployed considerable resources daily since the first drones were spotted.
We continue to support the round-the-clock efforts of our Prosecutor’s Office, the Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Law & Public Safety in monitoring the drones and responding to reports from residents as well as local law enforcement. Our county agencies have worked diligently with local police chiefs as well as the State Police, the New Jersey Department of Homeland Security & Preparedness, and the FBI in the hopes of bringing calm to this situation and finding answers.
It is amply clear, beyond the fact that FAA regulations prevent our law enforcement agencies from taking any defensive action regarding the errant drones, that only the federal government, with its enormous resources and pre-eminent technology, has the authority to clear our skies of this mounting threat to our public safety. As elected officials, servicemen, and women you are failing to abide by the oath you took to protect us from enemies, foreign and domestic. You must rectify this situation.
We need action now. Our residents deserve nothing less. America deserves nothing less.
Nominees Sought for 2025 “Seeds of Change’’ Award
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Advisory Committee on Women is now accepting nominations for its 6th Annual “Seeds of Change” Volunteer Award, which will be presented March 2025 to a nominee who has volunteered to improve the community and who has been a leader and inspiration to other women in the county.
Nominations may be submitted through Jan. 6, 2025. The Morris County Advisory Committee on Women is asking that all nominations be submitted online.
The “Seeds of Change” Volunteer Award was inspired by the late State Sen. Leanna Brown, who passed in 2016. This honor is intended to highlight and celebrate women who build up other women, and that includes those who volunteer at the grassroots levels in the community.
Ms. Brown served on the Chatham Borough Council from 1969 to 1972. She was the first woman elected to the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders (now the Board of County Commissioners), becoming the Director in 1976. In 1978, she was named president of the New Jersey Association of Counties.
In 1983, Ms. Brown was also the first Republican woman elected to the New Jersey Senate. She was a champion of women’s causes and a mentor to many women who sought to join the political and electoral process. Ms. Brown also was the driving force behind the county’s creation of the Morris County Advisory Committee on Women.
The “Seed of Change” Volunteer Award was first issued in April 2018 and has been bestowed every year except 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior winners include:
2018 – Lila Bernstein of Mendham Township
2019 – Phyllis Chanda of Flanders
2022 – Mary Ledyard of Rockaway Borough
2023 – Alice Cutler of Morristown
2024 – Debby Seme of Martinsville
It is preferred, but not required, that the nominee be linked with volunteering for a cause of current interest to the Advisory Committee on Women. Current areas of interest include housing and homelessness, human trafficking, incarcerated women, women in the military, female veterans, and other areas that impact women.
For additional information, please contact Sydney Ugalde at sydney@thebiscaynegroup.com no later than January 6, 2025. The individual selected to receive the honor will be contacted after the deadline and invited to attend the Seeds of Change Award Ceremony at a March 2025 meeting of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners.
Bucco to Biden Administration: “Enough is Enough” After Drones Disrupt NY Airport
MORRIS COUNTY — Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco (R-25) is demanding action from the Biden administration after drone sightings in New York prompted Orange County airport to temporarily shut down.
“Enough is enough. The Biden administration’s feeble response to these unidentified drones in New Jersey and New York is going to end up in tragedy. I am tired of demanding answers, it is time for action. This has gone on for way too long. The blatant display of disrespect to the American people is a glowing example of the Biden administration’s incompetence and failure to prioritize our national security. “
“If one injury or tragedy occurs as a result of these mysterious drones, the blame will rest solely on the negligent hands of President Biden and his administration. The time for excuses has passed. It is time for the FBI and FAA to take decisive action. The American people deserve no less.”
Chess Club at Morris County Library: Upcoming 2025 Dates Announced
MORRIS COUNTY — Chess enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels are invited to enjoy friendly and non-competitive games at the Morris County Library throughout 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, this drop-in program offers a welcoming environment to learn, play, and connect with others.
Event Details:
- Dates:
- Wednesday, January 8, 2025 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, March 12, 2025 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 14, 2025 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, July 9, 2025 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, September 10, 2025 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Morris County Library Public Meeting Room, 30 East Hanover Avenue, Whippany.
- Cost: Free
- Contact: Reader’s Services, (973) 285-6385
Players are encouraged to bring their own chess sets and time clocks if available. Basic knowledge of the rules is suggested but not required. This is a wonderful opportunity to play the timeless game of chess in a relaxed setting.
No registration is required — just drop in, make your move, and enjoy the game!
For more information, contact Reader’s Services at (973) 285-6385.
The Learning Experience Hosts Holiday Celebration with Santa in Parsippany
PARSIPPANY — The Learning Experience in Parsippany spread holiday cheer on Saturday, December 15, with a festive celebration for children and families. The event featured a special appearance by Santa Claus, giving children the chance to share their holiday wishes and take memorable photos with him.
Families enjoyed the joyous atmosphere as the children delighted in meeting Santa and experiencing the magic of the holiday season. The Learning Experience staff ensured the event was filled with fun, laughter, and seasonal spirit.
Events like this highlight the center’s commitment to fostering a warm and engaging environment for children and their families.
For more information about The Learning Experience and its programs, click here.
The Learning Experience is located at 1159 Parsippany Boulevard.
GYL Financial Synergies Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Brings New Energy to Parsippany
PARSIPPANY — GYL Financial Synergies celebrated the grand opening of its new office in Parsippany on December 10 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that brought together local leaders, business professionals, and members of the community. The new office marks an important step in the firm’s expansion, enabling it to serve its clients better while contributing to the economic growth of Northern New Jersey.
Michael Green, Managing Director and Senior Wealth Advisor at GYL Financial Synergies addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of the firm’s commitment to Parsippany. “This community represents a dynamic and thriving environment that aligns with our mission to deliver exceptional financial solutions while fostering meaningful relationships,” said Green. He highlighted how the strategic location will enhance accessibility for clients and create opportunities for local engagement.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was initiated by Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, who was joined by Michael Green, Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling, Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso. Each of the dignitaries spoke warmly about the firm’s decision to establish a presence in Parsippany and its positive implications for the community.
Frank Cahill, who played an instrumental role in welcoming GYL Financial Synergies to the area, expressed his excitement about the partnership. “This is a great addition to Parsippany’s business landscape. Companies like GYL not only bring expertise but also contribute to our collective growth,” said Cahill.
Attendees were treated to guided tours of the modern office space, designed to enhance collaboration and provide a welcoming environment for clients. Refreshments and networking opportunities added to the celebratory atmosphere, as guests explored the facility and discussed the exciting potential of the firm’s presence in the community.
Michael Green expressed his gratitude to the community leaders and attendees who supported the event and underscored GYL’s commitment to Parsippany. “We look forward to building strong relationships here and making a positive impact through both our financial services and our community involvement,” said Green.
The new Parsippany office will serve as a hub for GYL’s comprehensive wealth management services, focusing on providing personalized financial strategies for individuals, families, and businesses. In addition to its core services, the firm plans to engage with the community through financial literacy programs and local partnerships.
Letter to the Editor: Barberio’s Time Management Style
Dear Editor:
Mayor Barberio would have you believe that his “being briefed” by persons unknown to us, is the equal of attending a gathering of dozens of mayors regarding the Drone Issue is absurd. Let’s be honest Mr. Mayor, you abandoned your obligation to attend that Drone Conference so you could attend a gathering of Seniors in order to curry favor with a voting block. Pure and simple!
As for the seniors, who are somehow looking forward to your being there and grateful for your attendance, you have overrated your popularity with that demographic. I am a senior, and as a senior, I certainly would have rather seen you at the mayor’s meeting. So please do not presume to speak for all seniors. Perhaps it is possible though not likely you may have even come up with a good question, but we never know, since you weren’t there. These Drone sightings may turn out to be an elaborate prank, but no one knows for sure at this time. The mere fact they are for the most part flying under radar detection should give any responsible leader cause for alarm.
You could have taken your gas-guzzling city-owned SUV and rode in style to a conference you should have attended. As for your implying that Councilman Musella doesn’t care about seniors, it is your incorrect opinion. He is not the one jamming PILOT Programs down the throats of the seniors in Parsippany. You are!
So do the residents of Parsippany a favor and stop campaigning on City Time and the taxpayer’s nickel.
Richard Suarez
Knights of Columbus Lead Festive Christmas Caroling Event for Seniors
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Knights of Columbus recently embraced the holiday spirit by caroling at the Calabrese House in Parsippany and Care One, bringing festive joy to residents with a repertoire of classic holiday tunes, including Jingle Bells and O Come All Ye Faithful.
Joining the Knights were Annie and Ben from All Saints Academy, who added their youthful voices to the chorus. Councilman Justin Musella along with Knights members Frank, Mike, and Bill Herman took part in the heartwarming event, filling the halls with music and holiday cheer.
The residents were delighted by the carolers’ visit, with many singing along and sharing smiles. “It was such a meaningful experience to bring joy to the community,” shared one of the Knights. “Seeing the happiness on the residents’ faces reminded us of the true spirit of the holidays.”
The Parsippany Knights of Columbus continue to foster community connections and goodwill through their events, making a difference during this special time of year.
Letter to the Editor: Mayor Barberio, Start Showing Up to the Job!
Dear Editor:
As long-time residents of Parsippany, my husband and I, and many other residents of the town, have been concerned about the appearance of numerous drones in our area; thus, it was with dismay that we learned our mayor, who had the opportunity to attend a statewide meeting this week to address the drone issue, decided to skip it. He opted instead to attend a holiday party for seniors. His justification was that they “look forward to my presence” at holiday parties. This cavalier attitude does little to inspire confidence in his leadership.
Mayor Barberio, it is your duty to attend critical public safety briefings—especially ones such as this, which drew hundreds of mayors from across the state. Regardless of how “well-informed” you believe you are, showing up matters. The purpose of the meeting wasn’t just to exchange updates but to shine a bright spotlight on an issue that has left township residents feeling deeply concerned and unsafe.
You should be a leading voice putting municipal pressure on state and federal officials to address these drones. You should be the one on national TV advocating for your community—not the Pequannock mayor. Parsippany is the largest municipality in the county, home to valuable public utilities, and your residents deserve better representation on this pressing issue. Your constituents are working people who understand responsibility and accountability. If we shirked our duties as you did, we’d likely lose our jobs. Residents are not convinced that you deserve a pass on this failure to act. It’s time to start prioritizing public safety over social events. Be more responsive to the people you serve—we deserve nothing less.
Gay Boyle
Mark Philhower
Parsippany
County Breaks Ground on Health & Emergency Multi-Purpose Facility
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County broke ground this week on a new multipurpose facility on the grounds of the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy to provide improved space for the Office of Public Health as well as garage and storage areas for the county’s key emergency response vehicles, personal protection gear, and life-saving equipment.
The project, located off West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany-Troy Hills Township, is being financed through federal American Rescue Plan Act funding earmarked for improving Morris County’s public health facilities and the county’s ability to respond and prepare for public emergencies. The storage area will house vehicles and equipment from the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Law and Public Safety, including the Office of Public Health and Office of Emergency Management.
The facility, which will be approximately 65,540 square feet, will cost about $18 million.
The building, in part, will improve operational space, including meeting rooms and storage facilities, for the Office of Public Health as well as expand the county’s ability to house important response vehicles and centralize locations for emergency equipment. The Office of Public Health is currently located in a former armory building a short distance up West Hanover Avenue. That building will eventually be upgraded and repurposed for other county operations.
Site work began last week, and construction is expected to begin soon.
Parsippany PAL Hosts Holiday Movie Night Featuring “The Polar Express”
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Police Athletic League (PAL) is spreading holiday cheer with its Holiday Movie Night, featuring the beloved family classic The Polar Express. Scheduled for Thursday, December 26, this free community event will open its doors at 4:00 p.m., inviting residents of all ages to come together and enjoy the magic of the season.
The event is generously sponsored by Ion Bank and Parsippany’s Best Pizza, whose support has helped make the evening possible. Parsippany’s Best Pizza is going a step further by donating 15% of every food order directly to the PAL, underscoring its commitment to the local community.
To ensure everyone can enjoy a delicious meal during the movie, attendees are encouraged to pre-order food by 3:00 p.m. on December 24. The full menu is available by clicking here, and orders can be placed by calling the restaurant at (973) 335-4450) directly. This collaboration not only supports the PAL but also fosters a sense of community spirit, as families gather for a night of fun and giving.
Nicholas Bronzino, Executive Director of PAL praised the event, saying, “We continue to be a cornerstone of our community, providing events that bring families together and enrich the lives of our residents. This movie night is yet another example of their dedication to making Parsippany a wonderful place to live.”
The Polar Express, a timeless story of holiday magic and believing in the impossible, promises to be the perfect centerpiece for this festive evening. Children and adults alike can immerse themselves in the heartwarming tale while enjoying the sense of togetherness that the PAL fosters through events like this.
For those looking to make the evening even more memorable, Parsippany’s Best Pizza offers a chance to enjoy a great meal while supporting a worthy cause. “We’re thrilled to partner with the PAL and contribute to such a meaningful event,” said Gianluca Fernicola owner of Parsippany’s Best Pizza.
Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to Parsippany, this Holiday Movie Night is the perfect way to celebrate the season with friends, family, and neighbors. Don’t miss out on the chance to watch a holiday classic, enjoy delicious pizza, and support the Parsippany PAL’s efforts to make a difference in the community.
The Parsippany Police Athletic League (PAL) is located at 33 Baldwin Road.