MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners congratulates Stephanie Gorman, a health officer in the Morris County Division of Public Health, on being sworn in for her second consecutive term as president of the New Jersey Association of County and City Health Officials (NJACCHO).

Gorman took the oath of office during the NJACCHO General Membership Meeting at the Atlantic City Convention Center, held in conjunction with the New Jersey League of Municipalities Conference, where Commissioner Douglas Cabana, liaison to the Morris County Department of Law and Public Safety, administered the oath. Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, Commissioners Christine Myers and John Krickus, Sheriff James Gannon and Undersheriff Mark Spitzer also attended.

“We’re proud to have Stephanie representing Morris County again as NJACCHO president,” said Commissioner Cabana. “Her continued leadership at both the county and state levels reflects our commitment to public health and to advancing critical initiatives statewide.”

NJACCHO represents public health leaders from 104 health departments in New Jersey’s 21 counties and 565 municipalities. For more than 113 years, the association has supported community health by promoting wellness, preventing disease and protecting residents, visitors and workers across the state. Gorman has been a member of NJACCHO since 2014 and has served on its board of directors since 2018.

“Stephanie’s leadership has strengthened our local and state health systems. Her reappointment as NJACCHO president recognizes her achievements and her ability to guide New Jersey’s public health community through complex challenges,” said Carlos Perez, chief health officer in Morris County Division of Public Health.

Gorman described her past term as “one of the most challenging, unpredictable, exhausting, yet inspiring years of her career.” She noted that NJACCHO expanded key partnerships throughout the state, advanced 21C public health modernization efforts, protected essential grant funding and completed the state’s first comprehensive costing model, providing a critical foundation for understanding and investment in core public health services.

“Our voices are being heard, our work is being recognized and 21C is finally gaining momentum,” Gorman said, calling the association’s progress a reflection of “resilience, leadership and the unwavering commitment of local public health leaders.”

Looking ahead, she said her next term will be pivotal as New Jersey navigates another period of transition and prepares for major statewide responsibilities, including the 2026 World Cup and America’s 250th anniversary. These events, she noted, underscore the need for a strong, coordinated local public health system and the urgency of sustaining momentum in statewide preparedness and support for New Jersey’s governmental public health network.

“This is our moment to solidify the value of local public health,” said Gorman, reaffirming her commitment to advancing NJACCHO’s strategic goals and strengthening member representation and engagement.

PARSIPPANY — Families in Parsippany are invited to celebrate the season and support their local firefighters at the annual Holiday Pictures with Santa event, hosted by the Lake Hiawatha District 4 Firehouse.

The event will take place on Saturday, December 13, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the firehouse, located at 39 N. Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha.

For a $10 cash donation, families will receive two printed photos with Santa Claus, with all proceeds helping support the volunteer firefighters who serve the community year-round. Refreshments will also be available for guests.

Children will have the chance to meet Santa inside the firehouse, with a festive backdrop featuring fire apparatus and holiday decorations—making it a perfect stop for family holiday memories.

Residents are encouraged to arrive within the event window to ensure they receive their photos and enjoy the refreshments.

This annual tradition brings neighbors together while helping the fire department continue its mission of keeping Lake Hiawatha safe.

PARSIPPANY — Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill announced that she will resign her seat representing New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District effective 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, November 20.

Sherrill, who has served in Congress since 2019, won the New Jersey gubernatorial election on November 4 and will take office as the state’s next governor on January 20, 2026. Her resignation triggers the start of the formal vacancy process for the district, which encompasses much of Morris County, including Parsippany-Troy Hills.

A Transition for North Jersey Representation

Sherrill submitted a resignation letter stating that it has been “an honor to serve the residents of the 11th District” and highlighted work on major federal priorities such as infrastructure upgrades, flood-mitigation funding, and support for the region’s military installations.

Once her resignation takes effect, the congressional seat becomes officially vacant. Under New Jersey law, the current governor must issue a writ of election to schedule a special primary and general election to fill the remainder of her term. Until a successor is elected and sworn in, the district will be temporarily without representation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Special Election Ahead

The forthcoming special election is expected to draw significant interest from both political parties, with several potential candidates already publicly exploring campaigns. The election timeline will become clear once the writ is issued, setting the dates for a special primary roughly 70–76 days later, followed by a special general election approximately two months after the primary.

Local Impact

For Parsippany and surrounding communities, Sherrill’s departure marks a shift in federal advocacy at a critical time as ongoing issues—including transportation improvements, flooding, and municipal funding—remain at the forefront. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates as the special election process unfolds.

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Morristown Police Chief Darnell Richardson confirmed that Tyrell Lansing, age 32, formerly of Morristown, has been sentenced in connection with an August 18, 2021 homicide that occurred on Clyde Potts Drive in Morristown.

On November 14, 2025, Judge Stephen J. Taylor, P.J. Cr. sentenced Lansing to 25 years in New Jersey State Prison, subject to the No Early Release Act (NERA). On October 6, 2025, Lansing pled guilty to first-degree Aggravated Manslaughter and second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose before Judge Taylor.

On November 14, 2025, Judge Taylor sentenced co-defendant De’Quan McDaniel, age 31, to a three year suspended sentence in New Jersey State Prison and 250 hours of community service. On October 3, McDaniel pled guilty to third-degree Hindering the Apprehension or Prosecution of Lansing.

A third co-defendant, Myles Dacres, age 28, previously pled guilty to third-degree Hindering the Apprehension or Prosecution of Lansing in May 2022. On August 4, 2022, Judge Taylor sentenced Dacres to three years in New Jersey State Prison.

The convictions arise from a fatal shooting on Wednesday, August 18, 2021 in Morristown, NJ. At approximately 1:03 a.m., the Morristown Bureau of Police received a 911 call regarding a shooting on Clyde Potts Drive. First responders located a male in the parking lot near 28 Clyde Potts Drive, Morristown, with multiple fatal gunshot wounds. Following an autopsy, the Morris County Deputy Medical Examiner determined the manner of death to be homicide. The victim has been identified as Raijah Scott, 35, of Cedar Knolls.

The investigation revealed that Lansing shot the victim multiple times before fleeing the scene in a motor vehicle. Lansing was apprehended on August 19, 2021, traveling through the State of Oklahoma with De’Quan McDaniel. Lansing was subsequently charged in connection with the homicide and extradited to New Jersey. Following the shooting, McDaniel provided transportation to assist Lansing in avoiding arrest. Myles Dacres provided false information to law enforcement about the shooting during the investigation.

Lansing has remained in custody during the duration of this case.

Prosecutor Carroll acknowledges the collective efforts of the legal and investigative staff – especially Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Tara Wang, Chief Assistant Prosecutor Chris Schellhorn, Assistant Prosecutor Jeffrey Conrad, MCPO Sergeant Matthew Magnone, MCPO Lt. Mike Gomez, Senior Assistant Prosecutor Michelle Ghali, and Morristown PD Det. Kevin Beal – in this complex case, which involved numerous pretrial motions and appeals. He also recognized the numerous law enforcement agencies for their participation, including members of the Morristown Bureau of Police, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, the New Jersey State Police, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit and Digital Forensics Investigations Unit.

PARSIPPANY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners presented a framed Resolution of Honor on Monday, November 17, to Frank Cahill in recognition of his decades of community service and his recent assumption of the role of governor of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International.

Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen led the presentation during the board’s public meeting, joined by Deputy Director Stephen Shaw and Commissioners Christine Myers, John Krickus, Deborah Smith and Thomas Mastrangelo.

“Frank has dedicated much of his life to serving others, especially children and families. His leadership in Kiwanis and his work in Parsippany and Morris County reflect the very best of public service. We are proud to recognize his achievements and his continued commitment to our community,” said Director Selen.

Cahill, a Parsippany resident, has been a member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany since 1991 and has held numerous leadership roles during the past 34 years. He began his term as district governor on Oct. 1, 2025, following his election as governor-elect for the 2024–2025 service year.

Through his involvement with Kiwanis, he has helped establish four new clubs in Morris County, with a fifth planned for January 2026, and is working to expand clubs across New Jersey. He has recruited nearly 130 new members — the most of any Kiwanian in the state — and has strengthened Kiwanis’ sponsored youth programs such as Key Club and Circle K, which engage students in service, leadership, and civic projects, including food drives, assisting senior citizens, and supporting local charities.

“My passion is helping kids. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we delivered food to children who needed it. It was amazing how many people we were able to reach, and clubs grew from that work,” Cahill said.  “My mission this year is focused on addressing youth homelessness throughout New Jersey.”

Cahill is also the publisher of Parsippany Focus and Morris Focus and is a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Advisory Board. Among his many volunteer efforts, he has served meals to the community at Homeless Solutions and fostered dogs through Eleventh Hour Rescue and Furver Home Dog Rescue, both based in Randolph.

The Board of County Commissioners unanimously adopted the resolution of honor, acknowledging Cahill’s service to Parsippany, Morris County and the State of New Jersey with Kiwanis International, and congratulates him on his election as governor for the 2025–2026 term.

Kiwanis International is a global volunteer organization dedicated to improving the lives of children. Clubs worldwide complete more than 1 million service projects each year, supporting schools, families, and communities while fostering leadership among young people.

PARSIPPANY — The results are now official, confirming a major shift in Parsippany-Troy Hills leadership as Democrats win the mayor’s race and secure a governing majority on the Township Council.

Pulkit Desai has officially been elected the next Mayor of Parsippany-Troy Hills, defeating incumbent Mayor James R. Barberio in one of the tightest municipal contests in township history. Desai received 9,978 votes (50.05%), while Barberio finished with 9,898 votes (49.65%)—a margin of just 80 votes out of 19,936 cast.

“I am deeply grateful to every resident who participated in this year’s election, whether you voted for me or not,” said Desai, 60, who lives in Lake Parsippany. “Your engagement is what keeps our democracy strong and our community vibrant.”

Democrats Capture Both Council Seats

The Township Council results are also official, with Democrats winning both open seats:

    •    Matt Kavanagh (DEM) — 10,715 votes (28.06%)

    •    Diya Patel (DEM) — 10,487 votes (27.46%)

    •    Frank Neglia (REP) — 8,684 votes (22.74%)

    •    Jigar Shah (REP) — 8,239 votes (21.58%)

Kavanagh and Patel will join Democratic Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, giving Democrats a majority on the five-member council.

The remaining Republican members are Paul Carifi Jr. and Matt McGrath.

With a Democratic mayor and a newly formed Democratic majority, Parsippany’s local government will begin 2026 under unified party leadership for the first time in several years.

Hernandez Expected to Become Council President

With the new majority in place, it is widely expected that Councilwoman Judy Hernandez will be selected as Council President at the January reorganization meeting. Hernandez has been an influential voice on the current council and will likely help guide the transition into the new administration.

High Voter Turnout Drives a Clear Message

Nearly 20,000 residents voted—an impressive turnout for a non-presidential year—reflecting strong community engagement and the importance local families placed on shaping the township’s future.

Issues such as development, neighborhood integrity, taxes, and transparency played a major role in this year’s election, ultimately leading voters to opt for new leadership and a new direction.

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Lions Club, in partnership with the American Red Cross and the Parsippany Library, invites the community to a Holiday Blood Donation Drive – an initiative focused on saving lives with urgency and empathy. The event will be December 13, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Parsippany Main Library

Every two seconds, someone in America needs blood. One donation can sustain a trauma victim, empower a cancer patient, or save a newborn. Beyond its humanitarian impact, giving blood also promotes donor health – a reminder that service strengthens both the body and spirit.

“All non-profits share a single purpose: to serve humanity,” said Pratap Jayakar, Vice District Governor & LEO Chair, Lions Clubs International, NJ. “We’re grateful to partner with the American Red Cross, the Parsippany Library, Kiwanis International, and our civic allies in championing community-driven health initiatives.”

This zeal and momentum of this event is further bolstered by the Christmas and Hanukkah holiday sentiment which is all about feeling interconnected and expressing gratitude through gestures of altruism. 

Register today: https://bit.ly/DonateBlood2025

As a token of appreciation, each blood donor will receive ‘Life Saver’ Certificate, a ‘Proud Donor’ magnetic Pin and $15 Amazon e-Gift Card.

Special thanks to our Partners and Sponsors whose support goes a long way in making such events a stellar success. 

Event Partners: American Red Cross, Parsippany Library, Kiwanis International
Sponsors: C2 Education, Kumon of Livingston, New York Life Insurance

PARSIPPANY — What began as a simple question—“Why doesn’t this town have any decorations?”—has grown into a beloved community tradition and a grassroots movement lighting up Lake Hiawatha every winter. At the heart of it all is Antoinette Piccolo-Simmons, a longtime educator, determined volunteer, and founding member of the nonprofit Friends of Lake Hiawatha.

Antoinette moved in with her husband in Lake Hiawatha in 2001, settling into a house her husband has owned for more than six decades. A retired full-time Spanish and Italian teacher, Antoinette has spent nearly 50 years in education, including private tutoring and currently as an adjunct professor at Drew University. But it was during a walk in December 2010 when her second act as a community advocate truly began.

While admiring other towns’ seasonal displays, she noticed Parsippany’s Lake Hiawatha section lacked festive flair. When she voiced her disappointment, her husband challenged her to take action. So, she did. Antoinette called the Mayor’s Office, where the mayor’s wife shared the same concern. The two decided to do something about it.

With determination and a few like-minded neighbors, Antoinette co-founded The Friends of Lake Hiawatha, a local nonprofit dedicated to beautifying and uplifting the community through events and decorations. Together with her partner, John Pascarella—owner of the Hiawatha Dairy and Vice President of the organization—they helped rally support for the initiative. Within two years, the group raised enough funds to install wreaths and snowflake lights on 40 lamp posts throughout Lake Hiawatha’s main streets. The effort was supported by generous donations from local merchants, and barrels filled with greenery were placed along sidewalks to further brighten the streets.

Their most cherished event is the annual Winter Fest, held in the heart of Lake Hiawatha at the town gazebo. This year’s celebration is scheduled for Friday, December 5, at 6:00 p.m., and promises to continue the tradition with face painting by a local artist, hot chocolate and cookies from Foodtown, and police and fire department participation. With the help of Unity Bank and local support, Friends of Lake Hiawatha also raffles off a girls’ and boys’ bicycle at no cost to attendees.

Before the pandemic, the group also hosted a Scarecrow Contest in partnership with the Girl Scouts, complete with prizes and pizza or ice cream parties for the most creative designs. While the contest has yet to return, the Winter Fest has remained a consistent beacon of community joy.

Today, the spirit of the project is evolving alongside Parsippany’s ongoing streetscape improvements. The town recently upgraded sidewalks and roads, removing old lamp posts and replacing them with more than 100 new posts—more than doubling the original number. It’s an exciting opportunity, but also a challenge.

Friends of Lake Hiawatha, now a registered LLC, is facing the steep cost of redecorating over 100 lamp posts. Antoinette recently raised $1,000 from ten merchants along North Beverwyck Road, but much more is needed to meet the new scale. She has reached out to the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and is hoping more corporations and donors will come forward. So far the following businesses have contributed: Mammon, Priola Funeral Home, Funny Books, Joe’s Cleaners, Landmark Floral, Onorevole Attorney at Law, First Care Medical Transport, Kebab Paradise, Vindac Realty Inc, Lake Hiawatha Diary.

“North Beverwyck Road is the only Main Street America-style area in Parsippany,” she emphasized. “Other towns light up for the season. Why shouldn’t we?”

Antoinette’s passion is unwavering. Her mission is simple: beautify Lake Hiawatha, bring joy to residents, and host events that foster community pride.

For updates or to contribute to Friends of Lake Hiawatha, visit their Facebook page: Friends of Lake Hiawatha on Facebook or read more at Parsippany Focus.

PARSIPPANY — Sunday, November 16, was a day filled with warmth, generosity, and community connection at American Legion Post 249, located at 91 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha. The Post hosted its popular pancake breakfast, one of its signature fundraisers and a cherished tradition that draws Parsippany residents together for food, fellowship, and service.

This month’s breakfast featured a special highlight: Post 249 presented Deacon Jim of Saint Peter the Apostle Church with a $1,000 donation to support Operation Chill-Out, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping homeless veterans by providing cold-weather essentials like gloves, hats, warm socks, thermals, and sweatshirts.

“Our mission is to support veterans not just in words, but in action,” said a Post member. “Operation Chill-Out ensures that those who served our country are not forgotten—especially in the harsh winter months.”

Guests enjoyed a hearty breakfast while connecting with neighbors and contributing to a meaningful cause.

The next pancake breakfast will take place on Sunday, December 7, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., again at 91 North Beverwyck Road. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy or a $6.00 donation in support of the Post’s annual Toys for Tots drive. In return, guests will receive a free breakfast.

“It’s a great time to sit back, relax, and meet new people,” organizers added. “All are welcome.”

American Legion Post 249 continues to be a pillar in the Parsippany community—nourishing connections, honoring veterans, and making a difference one breakfast at a time.

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany PAL is spreading holiday cheer with a festive event for families: Merry Moments With Santa. This two-day celebration invites families to create cherished memories and take photos with Santa Claus at the PAL building, located at 33 Baldwin Road.

The event takes place on Saturday, December 13, and Sunday, December 14. On Saturday, families can attend between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. or 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Sunday’s hours are 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Registration is $25 per family, with an optional $10 photo printout available. Attendees are encouraged to register early, as time slots are expected to fill quickly.

This heartwarming event is designed to bring the community together for a joyful and magical holiday experience. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the season and support a local tradition.

Click here to register.

PARSIPPANY — Under crisp autumn skies, the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills gathered on Tuesday, November 11, to honor the courage and sacrifice of America’s veterans during a moving Veterans Day Ceremony held at Veterans Memorial Park.

The ceremony began with a formal Presentation of the Colors by American Legion Post #249, followed by a heartfelt Invocation led by Deacon Len Deo of St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church.

The Parsippany High School Choir performed the National Anthem, while students from the high school led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance, demonstrating the township’s tradition of youth civic engagement.

Former Parsippany Council President Michael J. dePierro delivered both the Introductory Remarks and a special reading titled “The Noble and the Brave: A Veteran’s Day Tribute,” offering a personal and historical reflection on service and sacrifice.

“Today we express our profound gratitude for every veteran who stood in defense of freedom,” said Mayor Barberio. “Your bravery does not go unnoticed, and your sacrifice is honored by this township and this nation.”

Musical tributes included a Patriotic Medley by the Parsippany High School Band, and a solemn Prayer of Remembrance offered by Father David Pickens, Pastor of St. Peter the Apostle Roman Catholic Church.

The ceremony was attended by township officials, members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion, local clergy, first responders, and families who came together to show appreciation for those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

As the ceremony concluded, the reverence in the crowd reflected the words spoken and songs performed—echoes of a grateful community standing united in remembrance.

PARSIPPANY — New Jersey lawmakers are sending a clear message to municipalities across the state: fulfill your affordable housing obligations—or risk losing out on state economic funding.

A newly enacted law, approved as P.L.2025, c.142, prioritizes state grants and financial assistance for municipalities that actively comply with affordable housing requirements. The legislation, sponsored as Assembly Bill No. 2390, was advanced by the Assembly Housing Committee and ties municipal housing compliance directly to valuable economic incentives.

Under this new law, the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) are required to give priority consideration to towns meeting their affordable housing commitments when awarding competitive grants or financial support. This includes programs such as the Main Street New Jersey Program and the Neighborhood Preservation Program.

Importantly, the law does not affect state funding that is already intended to help towns meet their affordable housing quotas. Instead, it focuses on rewarding municipalities that have already demonstrated good-faith compliance.

For the first five years of any new housing cycle, DCA will assess each municipality’s standing based on several factors, including:

• History of builder’s remedy lawsuits
• Previous affordable housing settlements
• Percentage of obligation already met
• Other relevant indicators of compliance

The legislation, pre-filed at the start of the 2024–2025 session, underwent a technical review and was updated before advancing. Legislators emphasized that the aim is to reward towns that act responsibly—those making measurable efforts to ensure housing affordability—with preferred access to state-backed economic development funding.

Key Takeaways:

• Towns that meet affordable housing requirements will be prioritized for select state grants.
• DCA and EDA will apply a compliance test before awarding economic aid.
• Grants helping municipalities meet their affordable housing obligations are not affected.

With this new law in place, municipalities that follow the rules on housing now gain a competitive edge in the race for economic development dollars.

PARSIPPANY — The heart of Lake Hiawatha will once again come alive with festive spirit as Winterfest 2025 brings the community together on Friday, December 5, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The beloved seasonal celebration is presented by Friends of Lake Hiawatha in partnership with Mayor James Barberio, promising an evening of holiday magic for residents of all ages.

Held at the gazebo on North Beverwyck Road, this family-friendly event invites children to meet Santa Claus, sip hot chocolate, and enjoy freshly baked cookies, generously donated by Foodtown.

Adding to the festive flair, children can have their faces painted by Gracy, while holiday music and elves will create a lively backdrop of seasonal joy.

This year’s Winterfest will also feature a special giveaway, where attendees can enter for a chance to win a boys and a girls bicycle, courtesy of Unity Bank. The drawing is open to all who attend, adding a dash of excitement to the evening’s festivities.

With lights, laughter, and local pride, Winterfest 2025 continues a cherished tradition in Parsippany. Residents are encouraged to dress warmly, bring the whole family, and come out to celebrate the season together.

PARSIPPANY — With a possible interruption in food assistance through the SNAP program, the Township anticipates an increase in residents seeking help from Parsippany’s Emergency Food Pantry, located at the Senior Community Center, 1130 Knoll Road in Lake Hiawatha.

Residents are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items, supermarket gift cards, or other essential items to help ensure that no one in our community goes without. To view a list of items the pantry typically stocks, click here or visit the Parsippany Township website at www.Parsippany.net.

Your generosity makes a real difference. Thank you for helping us support families in need in Parsippany.

For more information, please contact the Emergency Food Pantry at (973) 263-7160.