MORRIS COUNTY — Cancer has become one of the leading causes of death among pets in the United States, with approximately 6 million new cancer diagnoses made in dogs and a similar number in cats each year. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, approximately 1 in 4 dogs and 1 in 5 cats will develop cancer during their lifetime. The risk increases significantly in older pets, with nearly 50% of dogs over the age of 10 developing some form of cancer. 

Pet owners are encouraged to be vigilant for signs of cancer, such as unexplained weight loss, lumps, or changes in behavior, and to consult their veterinarians promptly if any concerns arise. By staying informed and proactive, pet owners can play a vital role in ensuring their companions receive the best possible care.

Longevity Veterinary Center is proud to announce the launch of its new Pet Cancer Risk Assessment Test, a personalized, proactive screening tool designed to assess the likelihood of cancer development in dogs and cats within the next 6 to 12 months. This initiative comes at a critical time, as cancer remains one of the leading causes of death among pets in the United States.

The Pet Cancer Risk Assessment Test is a simple blood test that analyzes key health markers to provide a personalized risk score ranging from 0 to 10 unique to your pet. This score reflects your pet’s overall health and potential risk of developing cancer shortly. 

In recognition of May being Pet Cancer Awareness Month, Longevity Veterinary Center is offering this test in a special promotion available through June 30, 2025:

• New Clients: Comprehensive wellness exam and Pet Cancer Risk Assessment Test for $249.
• Existing Clients: Pet Cancer Risk Assessment Test for $149, provided the pet has had an annual or biannual exam within the past 12 months.

“Our goal is to empower pet owners with the knowledge and tools to detect potential health issues early,” said Dr. Gerald Buchoff, veterinarian at Longevity Veterinary Center. “By identifying cancer risks sooner, we can take proactive steps to ensure the well-being of our beloved pets.”

The Pet Cancer Risk Assessment Test is recommended for all dogs and cats over the age of 5 and breeds known to have a higher predisposition to cancer.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact Longevity Veterinary Center at (973) 606-1101.

Dear Editor:

When hiring someone, you look at their past to understand what kind of future you’re getting. Voting should be no different.

Elections don’t need to be nasty. Candidates should focus on their plans—not personal attacks. Please tell us how you’ll make life better. Show us you’re listening.

We need leaders who talk to people across town—seniors, parents, teachers, business owners—and learn what really matters. Leaders who make sure our tax dollars are spent wisely all year, not just at budget time. They keep what works, fix what doesn’t, and cut what we no longer need.

Parsippany’s future depends on innovative, honest leadership. That’s why I’m voting for Justin Musella.

I’ve known Justin for over six years. He’s consistent, hardworking, and shows up—on time, every time. He’s not afraid to face tough questions, even from those who disagree with him. He’s not in it for favors—he’s in it to serve.

Justin listens, follows through, is organized, professional, honest, and truly committed to our community. He’s grown local Republican organizations, stepped up when needed, and always takes responsibility. That’s leadership.

Supporting Justin doesn’t mean I dislike the other candidate. I believe Justin Musella is the right person for the job—now.

He will represent all of us—not just his friends, not just a select few—but every resident in Parsippany. That’s what civic responsibility looks like, and that’s what we need in our next Mayor.

Susy Golderer

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Police Department has issued an urgent traffic advisory as milling and paving operations are set to begin on Monday, May 12, along a busy stretch of North Beverwyck Road, from Claudine Terrace near Foodtown to the Lake Shore Drive area.

Drivers can expect lane shifts and possible detours throughout the project. The roadwork is part of ongoing infrastructure improvements in the area and is expected to cause minor disruptions to traffic flow.

Despite the construction, all businesses along North Beverwyck Road will remain accessible, and officers will be on-site to assist with traffic and ensure safety for both motorists and pedestrians.

Motorists should allow extra travel time and caution when traveling through the construction zone.

Further updates will be provided as the project progresses.

PARSIPPANY — The Department of Transportation (DOT) substation on Route 202 (Littleton Road across from Kingston Road) received a significant upgrade this week that will please residents.

The DOT began reforesting the area, which had been a constant complaint of many residents. Councilman Musella met with the DOT in August 2024 to address the concerns of operating hours, machinery stationed, and reforesting the area. 

After many months of follow-up and planning, it was decided that a May planting would occur after the risk of frost faded.

Resident Karl Journey of Lake Parsippany, who spearheaded the initiative, said, “I want to thank Councilman Musella for taking the initiative on fixing the eyesore of the DOT substation. I complained to previous administrations about this issue going back to 2017, and nobody did anything.” 

PARSIPPANY — New Jersey families can now receive extra help feeding their children this summer through a new Summer EBT initiative. The program provides $120 in food benefits per eligible child, offering critical nutritional support when school is out.

Summer EBT is part of a federal effort to reduce child hunger during summer, when access to free or reduced-price school meals is unavailable. Benefits can be used at any location that accepts SNAP/EBT, including grocery stores, farmers markets, and other participating retailers.

The program is automatic for many families already enrolled in SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid. Others may need to apply to receive benefits.

To find out if your child qualifies and to learn more about how to access benefits, visit NJ.gov/SummerEBT. The state also distributes promotional materials with a QR code linking to the program website.

With food prices rising, the Summer EBT program offers a much-needed resource to help ensure every child has access to healthy meals throughout the summer break.

Dear Editor:

It’s been 16 months since the PILOT projects were approved by the Town Council in January 2024, despite the citizens of Parsippany’s objections. At this week’s Town Council meeting, Mayor Barberio announced that a Memo of Understanding (MOU) related to the PILOT projects was sent to the Parsippany BOE. 

During the public meeting, Mayor Barberio disclosed several features of the proposed MOU. Possibly the most critical point he made is that the submitted MOU only includes PILOT projects approved in 2024 and does not include previous PILOT projects that he did not negotiate. This precludes 1515 Route 10, which is currently being occupied. While the number of students so far from that project is small, demographic projections suggest that over 200 students could come from this one property.

The Mayor correctly points out that the increase in tax revenue for the school district is capped at 2% per year, regardless of the change in ratables. However, he is profoundly mistaken in thinking there will be no impact on the school district. The school district will absorb the cost of educating children from 1515 Route 10.  At an average price per student of $20K to $25K, 200 students would result in an additional unfunded cost of $4 to $5 million annually. That the Mayor did not negotiate the 1515 Route 10 PILOT agreement is wholly irrelevant since the school district will still educate those children.  This arrangement will inevitably result in increased class sizes and reduced resources. While the Mayor made his announcement, several parents at the Board of Education meeting spoke up to voice their legitimate concerns over substantial class sizes.  Assuming the MOU portrayed by the Mayor eventually results in an actual shared revenue contract, no funds to the school will be forthcoming related to 1515 Route 10.  

Interestingly, the Proposed Town Budget did not include additional money for PILOT Revenue sharing.  That indicates the Town does not anticipate additional funds to the school district above the normal tax levy plus 2%. As has been previously pointed out, additional unfunded expenses of at least $4 to $5 million, EVERY YEAR for the next 30 years, will arguably devastatingly impact the school system, especially given anticipated systemic losses resulting from the mismatch of inflation combined with the 2% revenue cap.

Jack S. Raia

PARSIPPANY—BAPS Charities will bring its annual “Spirit of Service: Walk-Run” to Parsippany on Sunday, June 1. Over 300 participants will unite to support two vital regional healthcare institutions: Carol G. Simon Cancer Center at Morristown Medical Center and the Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute.

The event will begin at 3 Entin Road and draw walkers and runners of all ages, including local leaders, first responders, and community advocates. Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James R. Barberio is among the notable guests scheduled to attend.

This annual Walk-Run is part of a national initiative by BAPS Charities, which spans over 100 cities across North America, emphasizing unity, community service, and support for critical causes. Participants in Parsippany will help raise funds and awareness for Carol G. Simon Cancer Center’s mission to provide comprehensive and integrated cancer care, and for Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute’s efforts to deliver state-of-the-art heart care using advanced technology and clinical expertise.

The event also reflects BAPS Charities’ broader commitment to health, education, environmental sustainability, and humanitarian relief. Beyond the Walk-Run, the organization has supported food and blood drives, toy collections, and global disaster relief efforts, including aid during the Los Angeles wildfires and hurricanes Milton and Helene.

For over two decades, BAPS Charities has organized more than 1,000 walks across North America, creating lasting impacts in communities by fostering service, compassion, and social responsibility.

Registration is open, and all are encouraged to participate. Sign up at bapscharities.org.

Learn more about the organization’s work at bapscharities.org.

Dear Editor:

I was undecided about who I would vote for in the upcoming GOP primary on June 10th, but I have made my decision: Councilman Musella, John Bielen, and Casey Parikh.

I met Justin not too long ago when he knocked on my door during the pouring rain and patiently explained his vision for the town. In our time together, he showed me he understands the concerns of Parsippany’s senior population — especially regarding affordability, public safety, and infrastructure. While others dismiss these concerns as routine, Musella urgently treats every issue. He pushed for action on neglected sidewalks, advocated against unnecessary tax hikes, and consistently followed up with residents. I spoke with him about a town concern, and he followed up with me. I was amazed! I had told him that if he were a physician like me, he would make an excellent doctor, although I feel Parsippany could use a superb politician as its Mayor.

Parsippany needs a mayor who respects those who built this community — and that’s exactly what Musella and his team represent.

Dr. Robert & Susan DiBenedetto

MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) appeared on Dr. Phil Primetime yesterday to discuss his legislation, S-4057, requiring state employees to return to the office.

During the appearance, Senator Pennacchio emphasized ongoing inefficiencies in how state agencies have addressed constituent concerns since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. He underscored the need to restore accountability and enhance the delivery of public services paid for by New Jersey taxpayers.

“Dealing with taxpayer money, I have a fiduciary responsibility that work is done promptly, and that it’s done to the best efforts that they can for the taxpayers of the State of New Jersey,” said Sen. Pennacchio during the interview.

Senator Pennacchio stressed the importance of prioritizing family and maintaining a healthy work-life balance— while ensuring that State employees remain engaged and contribute meaningfully during the workday.

“While you’re spending time in employment, I think the employer has a right to an honest day’s work for an honest day’s wage,” said Sen. Pennacchio.