Councilman Justin Musella, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., and Councilman Matt McGrath
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.
Mayor James Barberio Council President Paul Carifi, Jr. Council Vice President Frank Neglia Councilman Justin Musella Councilman Matt McGrath Councilwoman Judy Hernandez
Monthly Hindi Language and Culture Event Debuts 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.”
No registration is required, and interested individuals can join directly at the venue. Make sure to mark your calendars for this enriching experience!
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Doreen Brennan and NJ District Kiwanis Governor-Elect Frank Cahill presented a $5,000 check to the Board of Directors of Parsippany PAL. The generous donation was a collaborative effort, combining contributions from the NJ District Kiwanis Club Foundation and the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation, aimed at enhancing the sports experience for local youth.
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.”
First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood with Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll
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
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.”
Make Your Move: Chess Club Returns to Morris County Library Starting January 8
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.
Aysha Reyes, 5, shares a special moment with Santa during The Learning Experience's holiday celebration 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.
The colorful celebration featured a fun winter-themed backdrop and cheerful decorations, perfectly capturing the magic of the holidays
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.
The holiday magic continued at The Learning Experience (Parsippany), where the festive event featured an enchanting “Candy Land” display. The colorful setup included charming gingerbread houses, candy-themed decorations, and a cheerful bear dressed in holiday attire, surrounded by vibrant lollipops and candy canes.
Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill presents an honorary plaque to GYL
Financial Synergies during the grand opening.
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.
Mayor James Barberio, Michael Green, Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling, Frank Cahill, and Robert Peluso celebrate the opening of GYL Financial Synergies’ new Parsippany office.
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.
A wide selection of refreshments was available for guests during the ribbon-cutting celebration.
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.
The modern GYL Financial Synergies logo proudly displayed in the new office
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.
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.
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.
Architectural rendering of the Morris County 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.
"Get ready for a magical evening! Join the Parsippany PAL for Polar Express Movie Night on December 26, 2024, sponsored by Ion Bank and Parsippany’s Best Pizza."
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.
Perhaps it is time to show Mayor Barberio a bit more understanding.
After all, as he so frequently reminds us, he ” is on duty 24 hours a day and, seven days a week”. So it’s little wonder why Mayor Barberio often sounds a bit tired, defensive, and cranky in his press releases and at Town Council meetings.
And, as Mayor Barberio is fond of pointing out, he is just not as young as some of his fellow elected officials in Parsippany. Attending all of those photo ops and grand openings must be exhausting especially when they coincide with official briefings such as the recent one that spoke to the safety and concerns of Parsippany residents regarding the appearance of multiple drones.
As the “mature” Mayor Barberio has learned so well in his 12 years in office, his long-standing practice of putting his political interests first, though time-consuming, is time-tested and has served him and his cronies well.
And as Mr. Barberio is fond of pointing out anyone younger than him must be too “immature” to be Mayor if that person simply wants to serve the safety and financial interests of Parsippany residents.
On second thought, Mayor Barberio may very well be perfectly enough understood especially by those who will vote in the upcoming Republican primary.
Freeholder Tayfun Selen (left) with Freeholder Stephen Shaw
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of Commissioners has appointed Tayfun Selen as Commissioner Director and Stephen Shaw as Deputy Director for 2025. Morris County Republican Chairwoman Laura Marie Ali lauded this decision and emphasized their potential to provide fiscally conservative leadership.
Ali noted that the team is committed to maintaining low taxes, investing in infrastructure and education, and continuing the county’s legacy of success, which includes achievements such as having New Jersey’s top-rated county college and vocational school district and maintaining a “AAA” bond rating.
During the announcement, Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him, emphasizing his commitment to connecting with residents and upholding fiscally conservative policies.
Deputy Director Stephen Shaw expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with Selen and the rest of the board to sustain Morris County as a prime location for living, working, and leisure.
This new leadership team is positioned to advance Morris County’s success and ensure prosperity for its residents in 2025.
The UAE has an impressive coastline you can explore to have a fun-filled vacation. No wonder many travel enthusiasts want to visit the country for a total-package vacation. However, sailing in the UAE is not just a luxury activity. It is an opportunity to explore the country’s beauty.
As nice as it seems, it is crucial to know what you want and go for it. What makes it sweeter is that you can rent a yacht in the UAE without any stress. Yet, you will get unmatched luxury and a memorable escapade. Below are notable factors to consider to ensure you rent a quality yacht:
Define the Purpose
The reason you want to go out into the sea is the first question you should have an answer to when you want to choose a UAE-quality yacht. The type of yacht you need for alone time fishing with family differs from when you want to host a large party.
Remember, the prices of charter yachts vary based on the amenities they offer. So, there’s no reason to pay extra for amenities you don’t need.
Know the Size to Go for
The size of the yacht also plays a vital role in ensuring you get the right option for your trip. For instance, suppose you want to rent a yacht for a solo weekend getaway or day sailing with your immediate family. A small vessel under 40 feet should be enough. A mid-sized yacht between 50 and 80 feet is perfect for a luxurious experience and space. A large yacht, typically above 80 feet, is the best option when planning an extended voyage with a large crowd.
Consider the Amenities
The specific amenities on yachts vary from vessel to vessel, but there are some essential amenities to look out for, especially when looking for quality. Things like Wi-Fi, BBQ grill equipment, bathroom amenities, comfortable accommodations with air conditioning or heating and music system, spacious saloon and deck, stocked kitchen with a dining area, and plenty of relaxation space may not seem like much but when at sea it goes a long way in helping you relax and enjoy the view.
Inspect the Yacht Before Booking
Visit the yacht before finalizing your booking to ensure it meets your expectations. Check for signs of wear or dent and document it with evidence. Remember to verify the presence of life jackets, fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and other essential safety gear. Don’t hesitate to confirm it has enough room and the amenities advertised.
Choose the Right Itinerary
The UAE offers diverse sailing routes. However, your choice of itinerary will influence the type of yacht you need. Below are some notable itineraries to explore during your sailing adventure:
Eastern Coast Adventures
Dubai Marina to Burj Al Arab
Abu Dhabi’s Corniche
The Fjords of Musandam
Conclusion
Going on a yacht cruise in the UAE is an adventure you don’t want to miss. However, it is best to do it the right way to get the maximum satisfaction you’re craving. But with so many options available, how can you choose the perfect yacht for your adventure?
One thing is certain─ you can never get it wrong when you work with a reputable yacht rental company. The tips in this article have highlighted everything you need for a memorable yacht cruise in the UAE.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
Editors Note: This press release was submitted by Mayor James Barberio and was printed verbatim by Parsippany Focus.
PARSIPPANY — Once again, Musella has demonstrated a lack of maturity and sound judgment necessary for any elected office. As Mayor, my responsibilities require me to prioritize my time effectively. His assertion that I am not fulfilling my duties is not only unfounded but also deeply disappointing. Just yesterday, after being briefed on the drone situation, I attended the annual holiday gathering for our Golden Age Seniors—a cherished event where our seniors look forward to my presence and engagement. During this event, we discussed the drone issue, and our seniors expressed their gratitude for my attendance. It is clear that Musella does not prioritize our seniors; indeed, he previously attempted to eliminate funding for their transportation services, suggesting they simply “call an Uber.” I am committed to supporting our seniors, even when he is not.
Regarding the drones, I was already informed prior to yesterday’s briefing, and I anticipated that there would be little new information to report. I also watched the Homeland Security Director’s briefing before Congress, which provided no answers. This lack of information is why many mayors across the state chose not to attend the briefing—there was nothing substantive to discuss.
Assemblyman Bergen even left the briefing early, declaring it a waste of time on social media and in interviews. The reality is that our Federal and State Governments are still in the dark about the origins, operators, and intentions behind these drones. These situations are concerning for all of us, and I share in the frustration. As citizens and local representatives, we must remain vigilant. If you see a drone, please record it and report it to the FBI. In case of emergencies, dial 911. The local government in Parsippany is dedicated to supporting our residents around the clock, and I will collaborate with our local, county, and state partners to find answers. Any new information regarding the drones will be promptly shared with the community.
This is not the time for inexperienced individuals like Musella to politicize public safety and exploit people’s fears. If he were genuinely concerned about public safety, he would not have voted against hiring additional police officers or opposed investments that enhance Parsippany’s safety measures. He also sought to cut funding for the Office of Emergency Management and reduce support for our first aid squads and Rescue and Recovery operations. Since taking office, Musella has consistently spread misinformation and leveraged people’s fears for his political gain. The residents of Parsippany deserve better and expect more from their leaders.
It is possible that those operating these drones are observing how we respond, hoping to incite disruption and paranoia. They have certainly succeeded in affecting Musella. My experience teaches me to focus on what can be controlled and not let uncontrollable factors disrupt our lives. Many other mayors share this perspective, which is why they chose not to participate in yesterday’s unproductive briefing. Let us remain vigilant, informed, and calm, refusing to let ourselves be dictated by circumstances beyond our control. Together, we will show those operating these drones that we will not be intimidated or succumb to hysteria.
Editors Note: This press release was submitted by Mayor James Barberio and was printed verbatim by Parsippany Focus.
