Wednesday, April 23, 2025
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Golfers Unite to Build Forever Homes for Adults with Special Needs

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Rose House to Host Day of Dreams Golf Event at Knoll Country Club West

PARSIPPANY — Rose House, a nonprofit organization that creates forever homes for people with developmental disabilities throughout Morris County, is excited to announce its 9th annual “Day of Dreams” golf event.

This year’s outing will occur on Monday, July 14, at the Knoll Country Club West, 990 Greenbank Road, Boonton.

Funds from this event will support Rose House’s “Forever Home Project.” This capital campaign aims to develop a new affordable housing complex for adults with special needs. Once completed, it will provide safe housing for 12 individuals receiving around-the-clock care. The complex will be in Chester Township at the former Glenlora Nursing Home site.

“We’re thrilled to announce that this new development will be our seventh forever home and our first in the beautiful Chester Township,” said Rose House CEO Tom Mitchell. “By playing golf, our community can make a significant difference in the lives of those with special needs.”

The Day of Dreams event will feature a golf tournament with contests and prizes, a cocktail hour, a luncheon with a silent auction, and raffles. The silent auction will also be held virtually, allowing anyone to participate. Check-in begins at 6:30 a.m., with the tournament starting at 8:00 a.m. The registration fee, which includes the luncheon, is $275 per golfer or $1,100 per foursome. The tournament is limited to 100 participants, and the registration deadline is July 7.

To register as a golfer, become a sponsor, or make a general donation, please visit Rose House’s official golf event by clicking here.

Please call (973) 984-0006, x121 or email [email protected] for more information about this event.

Rose House, a non-profit organization headquartered in Morris Plains, New Jersey, creates forever homes that make dreams come true for those with special needs throughout Morris County. It offers customized, self-directed programs to meet every need. The organization’s vision is a future inclusive community where everyone has a loving home. For more information, click here.

Hofstra Student From Parsippany Helps Beautify the Community During Annual Pride and Plant

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Approximately 230 Hofstra students went out in the community to help with gardening at neighboring homes as part of the University's annual Pride and Plant event

PARSIPPANY — Cloudy skies didn’t stop Hofstra University student Ashla Coe, a Mechanical Engineering major from Parsippany, from joining more than 230 classmates early Saturday morning to volunteer in the community. Together, they rolled up their sleeves to garden and assist with yard work at local homes as part of Hofstra’s Annual Pride and Plant event. Ashla is a 2024 graduate of Roxbury High School.

The beautification initiative, which began in 2017, connects students with nearby homeowners who need help. It is organized by the Office of Commuting Student Services and Community Outreach, led by Anita Ellis.

Ellis noted that participation more than doubled in 2025, and the number of homes served grew from 49 in 2024 to 76 this year. Students came from a wide range of campus groups, including Greek life, Spirit Support, academic organizations, and Hofstra athletics.

“Events like this make me love what I do at Hofstra even more,” Ellis said. “My heart is full, and I’m so proud of this record number of students who came out early to give back to the community.”

In addition to helping individual homeowners, students also worked on the garden at the John J. Byrne Community Center in Uniondale.

Homeowner Lashay Ferguson expressed her appreciation. “It’s a beautiful thing to be a part of,” she said.

Pride and Plant supports the Hofstra 100 strategic plan, advancing the University’s mission of community engagement—strengthening the region and ensuring all neighborhoods are served and empowered.

With small classes, dedicated faculty, and a beautiful campus just a short distance from New York City, Hofstra University offers students an environment where learning, innovation, and meaningful service go hand in hand.

Free Shred-It Event in Parsippany

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File Photo

PARSIPPANY—Residents looking to dispose of sensitive documents safely are invited to a Free Shred-It Event on Saturday, May 3, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The event will take place in the parking lot of Town Hall, located at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard.

With identity theft and privacy concerns rising, shredding personal documents is important in protecting confidential information. This community event offers residents a convenient and secure way to dispose of old paperwork, such as bank statements, tax documents, medical records, etc.

Two shred trucks will be available on-site, and there is no weight limit, allowing participants to bring as many documents as needed. Attendees are asked to remove any large binder clips or plastic before shredding, though staples and paper clips are acceptable.

The event is open to all Parsippany residents; no pre-registration is required. Drive up and drop off your documents—staff will be on hand to assist with unloading if needed.

Don’t miss this opportunity to protect your privacy and declutter your home or office. For more information, visit the Township website or call Town Hall.

Parsippany Education Foundation Grant Supports Bilingual Library at Rockaway Meadow School

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Smiling Faces Fill Rockaway Meadow School Thanks to PEF Grant for Bilingual Library

PARSIPPANY—The Parsippany Education Foundation, Inc., recently awarded a grant to support the creation of a Bilingual Library at Rockaway Meadow Elementary School, which will help foster literacy and inclusivity among students.

With the help of the PEF grant, the school was able to provide students with books in their native languages—resources many previously did not have access to. These books are now available for weekly checkout during Media class, ensuring that all students can enjoy reading alongside their peers.

More smiling faces at Rockaway Meadow School as students explore the new Bilingual Library, made possible by a Parsippany Education Foundation grant promoting literacy and inclusion.

In addition to empowering students, the initiative supports parents by offering materials they can use at home to help build a strong literacy foundation. The increased access to engaging and culturally relevant books has boosted student confidence and strengthened participation in reading activities.

The Parsippany Education Foundation remains committed to funding programs that enhance the educational experience of all Parsippany students.

Parsippany Honors Ptl. Robert Smolen for 20 Years of Dedicated Service

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Ptl. Robert Smolen #444 is honored for 20 years of dedicated service to the Parsippany Police Department, celebrating a career marked by bravery, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to the community.

PARSIPPANY — On Friday, April 4, the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills proudly honored Patrolman Robert Smolen #444 for his outstanding 20 years of service with the Parsippany Police Department. The celebration recognized not only a career marked by dedication and bravery but also a legacy of mentorship and community impact.

Members of the Parsippany Police Department gather with Police Chief Richard Pantina, Ptl. Robert Smolen #444, and Mayor James Barberio to celebrate Smolen’s 20 years of honorable service and commitment to the community.

Throughout his two decades on the force, Ptl. Smolen earned two Lifesaving Awards and became a trusted mentor to many of Parsippany’s newest recruits. His commitment to service extended far beyond the call of duty, as he played a vital role in shaping the department’s future through training and guidance.

Following the ceremony, Ptl. Smolen reflected on the department’s growth over the past few years. He shared his pride in the new officers who have joined the force, many of whom he helped train. “They’re strong additions to the department,” he said, emphasizing his confidence in the continued excellence of the Parsippany Police.

As Ptl. Smolen enters retirement, Parsippany expresses heartfelt gratitude for his unwavering dedication and service. His contributions will not be forgotten, and his impact will continue through the officers he mentored. Congratulations, and best wishes on a well-earned retirement!

Parsippany Police Chief Richard Pantina, Ptl. Robert Smolen #444 and Mayor James Barberio gather to honor Smolen’s 20 years of dedicated service to the Parsippany Police Department during a special retirement ceremony.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Water Department to Begin Annual Hydrant Flushing Program

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A fire hydrant flushes water during the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills’ annual Hydrant Inspection and Flushing Program, which helps clear mineral deposits from the water system.

PARSIPPANY—Beginning Sunday, April 13, the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Water Department will launch its annual Hydrant Inspection and Flushing Program. The initiative, essential to maintaining the township’s water system, will run through Saturday, May 17.

Crews will conduct the flushing overnight, wrapping up each day by 6:00 a.m. The process involves systematically opening fire hydrants to increase water flow, helping flush out minerals and deposits that naturally accumulate in the mains.

While the flushing will not interrupt water service, residents may temporarily experience reduced water pressure or discolored water while crews are working in their neighborhood. This is a normal part of the process and poses no health risks. If discoloration occurs, residents are advised to run their cold water tap until it is clear. It’s also recommended to check the water before using dishwashers or washing machines.

If you continue to notice low water pressure or volume after flushing, inspect your faucet screens for trapped particles.

For specific questions or concerns, residents may contact the Water Department at (973) 263-7099, Monday through Friday, between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Parsippany Recreation Announces Women’s Adult Softball League for Spring Season

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Ready to swing into the season! Parsippany’s Women’s Adult Softball League is calling all players for a fun and competitive spring on the field.

PARSIPPANY — Get ready to step up to the plate! The Parsippany Recreation Department is thrilled to announce its Women’s Adult Softball League, returning to the Smith Field Park Softball Fields this spring.

The league will run from May through July, with games held on Monday and Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. The program is designed to bring together local women of all skill levels for a fun and competitive softball season.

Whether you’re an experienced player or just looking to enjoy the game and meet new people, teams and individuals are welcome to join. It’s a great opportunity to stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and participate in a vibrant community event.

For more information or to register, contact Dawn Palmieri at (973) 229-6090 or [email protected].

Reckitt to Eliminate 190 Jobs at Parsippany Headquarters Amid Global Reorganization

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Reckitt Benckiser’s U.S. headquarters, located at 399 Interpace Parkway in Parsippany, where 190 jobs are set to be eliminated as part of a global restructuring effort.

PARSIPPANY — As part of a major restructuring effort, Reckitt Benckiser Group has announced plans to eliminate 190 jobs at its U.S. headquarters, located at 399 Interpace Parkway, by August 1, 2025.

The news came through a WARN notice filed with the New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development. The multinational consumer goods company is undergoing a sweeping transformation as it transitions to a new operating model set to launch in 2025.

The U.K.-based company says the shift will create a “simpler, more effective organization with fewer management layers and reduced duplication ” while allowing it to focus more intently on its “high-growth, high-margin Powerbrands.”

Reckitt’s core power brands include household and personal care staples such as Mucinex, Strepsils, Gaviscon, Nurofen, Lysol, Dettol, Harpic, Finish, Vanish, Durex, and Veet.

As part of the strategy, Reckitt will discontinue its nutrition and essential home divisions. The company also plans to sell off its home care brands—including Air Wick, Mortein, Calgon, and Cillit Bang—by the end of 2025. Meanwhile, it is exploring strategic options for its Mead Johnson infant formula business.

The restructuring is expected to cost $1.3 billion. The aim is to reduce the company’s annual fixed costs from 22% to 19% by 2027.

“This is an important step forward to firmly establish Reckitt as a world-class consumer health and hygiene company,” said CEO Kris Licht. “Our core portfolio of market-leading Powerbrands and simpler, more effective organisation positions us to better serve our consumers and customers.”

Former Nurse Sentenced in Connection with Death of Disabled Man

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MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and East Hanover Police Chief Christopher Cannizzo confirmed a former licensed nurse has been sentenced in connection with the death of a disabled man, who passed away on February 10, 2023 shortly after being transported on his school bus.

On February 25, 2025, Emilio J. Rivera, 30, of Carlstadt, pled guilty to one count of Endangering Another Person, a crime of the third degree, and one count of Neglect of a Disabled Person, a crime of the third degree, before Judge Ralph Amirata, J.S.C.

On April 4, 2025, Rivera was sentenced by Judge Amirata to 3 years’ probation conditioned upon 90 days in the Morris County Correctional Facility, with up to 45 days to be served in the Sheriff’s Labor Assistance Program (SLAP). Defendant was ordered to have no contact with the victim’s family. Rivera also consented to the revocation of his nursing license.

The charges stem from a 9-1-1 call on February 10, 2023 in East Hanover. Police and emergency personnel were called to a residence on a report of an unconscious male. The man, Matthew Rossi, 19, who was wheelchair bound and non-verbal, had just arrived home on the bus from his school. EMS personnel and East Hanover Police officers attempted CPR and other life-saving intervention. The victim was subsequently pronounced deceased.

In keeping with policy, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and East Hanover Police Department conducted an investigation into the circumstances of the victim’s death. Subsequent investigation revealed the victim was accompanied on the bus by a licensed nurse, Rivera. Rivera was legally responsible for the care of Matthew, and neglected to perform certain acts necessary for the victim’s care which created a substantial risk of serious bodily injury.

Members of the East Hanover Police Department, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit participated in the investigation and prosecution.

Former Avis Budget Group Headquarters Site Slated for Redevelopment

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Avis Budget Worldwide Headquarters was located at  6 Sylvan Way.

PARSIPPANY — The former Avis Budget Group corporate headquarters at 6 Sylvan Way has been demolished and is slated for redevelopment into a mixed-use project. The proposed development includes a Life Time Fitness center and 238 multi-family housing units.

As demolition work continues, a Doosan excavator sits atop rubble at the former Avis Budget Group headquarters site on Sylvan Way, Parsippany.

The former building, constructed in 1981, was a four-story, Class A office space totaling 195,240 square feet. It was a prominent corporate address in Parsippany for decades before its recent demolition.

This redevelopment plan has become a focal point of discussion among local officials and residents, particularly surrounding financial agreements and potential tax implications associated with the project. Using a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program has raised questions about long-term impacts on community planning and municipal finances.

As demolition work continues, a Doosan excavator sits atop rubble at the former Avis Budget Group headquarters site on Sylvan Way, Parsippany.

The property, now owned by Signature Acquisitions, will be divided to accommodate the residential units and the fitness center.

Avis Budget Group, the parent company of Avis Rent a Car, officially relocated its headquarters to LATITUDE at 379 Interpace Parkway on January 6, 2023. The company now occupies a 155,234-square-foot office at the 35-acre, two-building campus.

“We’re pleased to welcome Avis Budget Group to their new headquarters at LATITUDE,” said Stephen Card, Director of Acquisitions at Rubenstein. “We set out to create a modern suburban office product that attracts the highest quality corporate users, and, with recent transactions this year with Avis and Gilead Sciences, we continue to execute that business plan.”

Chunks of concrete, insulation, and other debris are all that remain of the once-bustling corporate headquarters.
Heavy machinery stands ready as demolition crews clear sections of the former office complex.

Letter to the Editor: Barberio’s Final Inning: Parsippany Republicans Must Call the Game

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Dear Editor:

Political life, like everyday life, is often defined by second chances. Those second chances are earned because lessons are learned, and most people, by their nature, are forgiving, somewhat forgetful, and usually willing to give another chance to a person or politician who pledges to do right going forward.

That certainly seems to be the case with Mayor Barberio. After being entrusted to two terms as Mayor by Parsippany residents  Mr. Barberio was unceremoniously turned out of office only to return four years later for a third term He was returned to office because he pledged to change his behavior and work with and for the people of Parsippany rather than pander to outside interests who viewed Parsippany as a place to add to their personal and corporate wealth. 

Simply put, and by all accounts, Mayor Barberio has not kept that pledge. As his third term enters the midpoint of its final year, the voters have a call to make at the upcoming Republican mayoral primary. 

Three strikes and you’re out sounds about right and should be the message delivered to the former  Parsippany Hills baseball player by Parsippany Republicans on June 10.

Bob Crawford

IHOP Partners with Laptop Upcycle to Bridge the Digital Divide

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IHOP partners with Laptop Upcycle to donate refurbished laptops, helping local students bridge the digital divide and succeed in school.

MORRRIS COUNTY — Laptop Upcycle has partnered with three IHOPs for a laptop drive during April. IHOPs in Parsippany, Kenvil, and Cedar Knolls will have boxes available to deposit your tax-deductible donation of unused laptops. While many students have school-issued laptops, these devices are often restricted to classroom use, leaving a gap in access outside of school hours.

Laptop Upcycle, an all-volunteer organization, collects tax-deductible donations of used laptops, securely erases data, and refurbishes them for middle and high school students who qualify. Since its inception, Laptop Upcycle has provided over 2,000 laptops and 7,900 community service volunteer hours to mostly high school students and diverted 13,000 pounds of e-waste from landfills.

Laptop Upcycle originated in the United Way building in Montclair. It now has four locations, including Ramapo College (Dylan Heffernan), Essex County College’s Adult Learning Center (Judy Celestin), and Passaic County Community College (Susan Gaulden), to service college students who qualify.

“Our recent partnership with Montclair Kiwanis furthers our efforts to empower students with the technology tools they need to succeed,” says Frances Smith, spokesperson for Laptop Upcycle.

Laptop Upcycle seeks tax-deductible donations of gently used laptops from individuals and corporations to support this community work. Click here for more information.

Mount Tabor Elementary PTA Hosts Successful 90s Trivia Night Fundraiser

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PARSIPPANY — The Mount Tabor Elementary School PTA transported guests back in time with a vibrant and nostalgic ’90s Trivia Night fundraiser held on Thursday evening, April 3, at the Knoll Country Club. More than 60 attendees joined in the fun, many dressed in classic ’90s fashion, filling a ballroom decorated with handmade centerpieces honoring beloved sitcoms such as Friends, Seinfeld, and Home Improvement.

The evening included dinner, socializing, and a spirited game of ’90s trivia hosted by emcee Chris Fitzpatrick, who praised the energy in the room and the community’s commitment to supporting Mount Tabor families, teachers, and administrators.

Mount Tabor Elementary School Principal Marlene ToomeyParsippany Councilman Justin Musella, and leaders of the Mount Tabor Elementary PTA were in attendance. Local sponsors donated an array of raffle prizes, further supporting the event. These included Denville Dairy, Mayor James Barberio, Fitness Factory in Rockaway, Burn Boot Camp, Prana Yoga, Janie and Jack, Dickerson’s Corner, Scoop Station, Soccer Shots, Hoovers Tavern, and many more.

Long-time PTA leader Samantha Panek emphasized the importance of events like these, noting that funds raised support classroom and playground supplies, field trips, cultural arts assemblies, teacher grants, scholarships, and social events that enrich the student experience.

The event showcased the strength of community engagement and its lasting impact on the success of local schools.

Letter to the Editor: Concerned Resident Urges Unity and Transparency at Council Meetings

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Dear Editor,

I am writing to express my thoughts and observations regarding Mayor Barberio’s and the City Council’s recent actions and initiatives.

Firstly, I would like to commend Mayor Barberio and the council members for their dedication and hard work in addressing our community’s needs. Their commitment to improving our city’s infrastructure, public services, and overall quality of life is commendable. 

However, I would also like to bring to your attention some concerns I have seen while attending recent Council meetings.  I believe it is important for our leaders to engage in open dialogue with respect and humility. This Council did not invent “throwing stones” at each other. That’s been in practice for centuries.  With that being said, I sat and watched Mr. Musella sitting politely at the meeting at PHHS while his supporters did all the “throwing of stones”.  Nothing wrong with that. (Well played, Justin.) We as citizens do not see what goes on behind the scenes, but what we see at the meetings brings a bad light to some individuals sitting on the council. I can say that I know Mayor Barberio and Councilman Neglia. My granddaughter, who is in 3rd grade, knows the Mayor and Councilman Neglia from events they have attended, and they make time to engage in conversation with the children. It’s heartwarming to say,” These very busy men make the time!” They are helping shape the future of these children by being present.  

In conclusion, I appreciate Mayor Barberio’s and the City Council’s efforts to make our city a better place. I am confident that we can overcome any challenges and achieve our shared goals with continued collaboration and transparent communication.

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I look forward to seeing the positive changes from our collective efforts.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Scangarella

Mayor Barberio Draws Top Spot on GOP Ballot

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ChatGPT said: Township Clerk Khaled Madin conducts the official ballot drawing for the June 10, 2025 Primary Election, selecting candidate positions one by one at Town Hall.

PARSIPPANY — The official drawing to determine candidate order for the upcoming June 10, 2025, Primary Election was held in the Township Clerk’s office at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard, on Thursday, April 3.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Clerk Khaled Madin conducted the drawing by placing each candidate’s name in a box and pulling them out individually to establish their position on the ballot. All positions are for a four-year term.

For the position of Mayor, incumbent Mayor James Barberio secured the top position on the Republican ballot, and his opponent, Councilman Justin Musella, positioned second.

The order of the Township Council is Frank Neglia, Jigar Shah, Kaushik (Casey) Parikh, and John Bielen.

Since the Democratic ticket has no competition, it will be listed in order: Pulkit Desai for Mayor and Matt Kavanagh and Diya Patel for Township Council.

In addition to the Mayor and Council races, all County Committee seats are up for election. The chart below shows the positions for each voting district. Parsippany has 39 voting districts, each including a male and a female candidate for the Republican and Democratic parties. The term for County Committee Members is two years.

Click here to download the complete list.

Lakeland Hills YMCA Welcomes Michael Meyer as Vice President of Childcare and Youth Services

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Lakeland Hills Family YMCA proudly welcomes Michael Meyer as the new Vice President of Childcare and Youth Services. With nearly 30 years of experience in education and youth development, Meyer will lead key programs including Early Childhood Education, Summer Day Camp, and Youth Services, advancing the Y’s mission to nurture every child’s potential in an inclusive and enriching environment.

MOUNTAIN LAKES — Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is pleased to announce Michael Meyer’s appointment as the new Vice President of Childcare and Youth Services. With nearly 30 years of experience in youth development and education, Michael is committed to empowering young people and fostering inclusive, nurturing environments where all children can thrive.

Michael previously served as Superintendent of the Lincoln Park Public School District, where he was known for his innovative leadership and community-centered approach. Under his guidance, the district expanded early education programs, implemented positive school climate curricula, engaged families in enrichment opportunities, and launched its first-ever strategic action plan to strengthen student outcomes and community engagement.

His extensive background includes roles as a teacher, middle-school principal, and school administrator. He holds multiple professional certifications in education, supervision, and leadership.

In his new role at Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, Michael will oversee the Early Childhood Education Center, Summer Day Camp, Kids Club Afterschool Program, and Youth Program Services. His leadership will further the Y’s mission to build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all, ensuring that children and families have access to high-quality, inclusive, and developmentally enriching experiences.

“We are thrilled to welcome Michael to the Y,” said Alex Martinez, CEO of Lakeland Hills Family YMCA. “His deep expertise in youth development, paired with a lifelong commitment to equity and education, will strengthen our ability to serve children and families across our community.”

Driven by its founding mission, the Y is a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening the community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other. For over 175 years, the Y has empowered people of all ages and backgrounds to learn, grow, and thrive.

About Lakeland Hills Family YMCA
At the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, we believe communities are stronger when individuals can reach their full potential with dignity. We provide programs and services that promote youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, ensuring that all feel welcome and supported.

Video: Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – April 1, 2025

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Councilman Justin Musella, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., and Councilman Matt McGrath

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – April 1, 2025.

Letter to the Editor: People Want Transparency from the Mayor

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Dear Editor:

Mayor Barberio, it has been made clear that you are the Police Director, which means you control all the hiring & promotions at the Police Department. Council President Paul Carifi also made it clear, at the last meeting, not to piss off the mayor or you won’t be promoted.

This leads me to my questions:

First, can you tell the public why there has been nineteen patrolmen hired within 2023-2024, yet twenty-six have retired? Some of these retirements were quick exits by way of military buyback time. Of the twenty-six retired, eleven are Sergeants and Lieutenants. The promotions in February of 2024 only replaced four supervisors since two promoted that day have already retired. Why are the supervisors working an unhealthy amount of overtime when an officer can be promoted? The lack of promotions has caused the town to hemorrhage tax money in unnecessary overtime. The Lieutenants list expires April 20th & the Sergeants list October 19th. So what are you doing here?

The patrolman hired has some personal connection to you. They are either a past officer’s grandchild, child, nephew, or child’s boyfriend; your best friend, Daniel Margotta’s nephew; or even the neighbor living across the street from you. None of these officers needed to take the civil service test per ordinance 2022-08.

Why do the officers to be promoted need to take a test, yet you still hire who you want? Does it depend on who has donated to your campaign? That information is public knowledge. Or is it who shows up at a fundraising event to support you whether deep down they do or not? The claim that text messages were sent to officers inviting them to your fundraising event was the truth. It seems there is a game being played. Rich Pantina was hired as Chief even after his score did not qualify him to be hired as Chief. With this being said, what are Chief Pantina and Deputy Chief Dowd’s roles at the police department? It seems you are the puppeteer controlling your puppets.

You want all the credit for making Parsippany safe, but you have created an unhealthy working environment for many township employees, which isn’t good for business for the town residents. Nobody trusts you, and everyone knows what is happening behind closed doors at the township. It is too bad that everyone is walking on eggshells.

Anonymous employee of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department
Name being withheld due to possible retaliation

Parsippany Neighborhood Watch to Host Active Threat Training for Office Workers

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Employees participate in a workplace meeting—a setting where preparedness for active threat scenarios is becoming increasingly important. Parsippany Neighborhood Watch is hosting a session on April 23 to educate the public on how to respond to such emergencies in office environments.

PARSIPPANY—To promote community safety and preparedness, the Parsippany Neighborhood Watch will host an informative training session titled “Active Threat Scenarios at the Office” on Wednesday, April 23, at 7:30 p.m. The event will take place at 449 Halsey Road and is free to attend.

The session will provide participants with practical strategies for recognizing and responding to active threats in the workplace. Attendees will learn how to stay alert, protect themselves, and work together to ensure safe outcomes during emergencies.

“With safety becoming more of a priority in today’s world, our goal is to ensure that residents and workers are equipped with the knowledge they need to react quickly and effectively,” said a representative from the Parsippany Neighborhood Watch.

The presentation is open to the public, especially those working in office settings who may benefit from scenario-based training and actionable safety tips.

EDGE New Jersey Announces CEO Succession

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Joann McEniry has been named CEO Designee of EDGE New Jersey and will officially succeed longtime CEO Laurie Litt on October 1, 2025.

MORRIS COUNTY — After three decades of unwavering commitment and service, Laurie Litt (she/her), Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of EDGE New Jersey, has announced her plan to step back from the position on October 1. EDGE New Jersey’s board of trustees unanimously voted for Joann McEniry (she/her), the organization’s Chief Strategy Officer, to succeed Litt. McEniry will serve as CEO Designee immediately, including collaborating with Litt to ensure a seamless leadership transition and supporting strategic initiatives, including engaging with key stakeholders. Following Litt’s departure from the position, McEniry will begin on October 1st as the new CEO of EDGE New Jersey, with Litt serving as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

Litt’s vision and leadership were instrumental in transforming the organization from a grassroots startup with three employees and an annual budget of $250,000 into a comprehensive community-based organization with nearly 30 employees and an annual budget of $6.5 million. “What an amazing career I have had, to work alongside so many people with the same dedication and commitment to making a difference in this world. Thirty years ago, when I stepped into my role as the executive director of The Eric Johnson House, I never imagined that three decades later, the organization would grow from a single-service, 10-bed transitional housing program into a dynamic, community-based organization supporting over 500 people annually. While the name of the organization and the programs we offer have evolved over the last 30 years, my passion and commitment to our mission remain unchanged,” stated Laurie Litt, CEO of EDGE New Jersey. “With the loss of both my parents within 11 months, it’s time to lighten my load as I step into my new role as CFO of EDGE New Jersey. Given Joann McEniry’s two-decade-long tenure in leadership and her commitment to the communities we serve, coupled with her expertise in policy, fund development, and strategic planning, I could not be more pleased with the Board’s decision for her to assume the CEO role this October. I take great pride in passing the leadership torch to Joann.”

“On behalf of the entire Board of Trustees, we are deeply grateful for Laurie Litt’s exemplary leadership over the last 30 years,” stated Jesse Johanson, Board Chair of EDGE New Jersey. “Her influence has profoundly shaped the organization, positively impacting countless lives. Joann McEniry is well-positioned to continue this important work as we move forward. I have worked directly with Joann for nearly 10 years and have full confidence in her ability to build upon the strong foundation Laurie has established. Under Joann’s guidance, EDGE will continue to promote healthy and authentic living for the HIV and LGBTQ+ communities, honoring our past while embracing new opportunities to serve and support our community.”

Throughout her career, McEniry has held several executive-level positions, served on numerous non-profit boards, and was a Clinical Social Work Associate for the Ramapo College of New Jersey Master of Social Work program for over 10 years. She has great experience in non-profit governance, development, and evaluation. Appointed by Senator Cory Booker during his term as Mayor of the City of Newark to the city’s Planning Council, McEniry holds an executive position on the Newark EMA Health Services Planning Council, overseeing HIV community health planning for five counties in New Jersey. “I am honored to be chosen as the next CEO of EDGE New Jersey. This opportunity represents not only the culmination of my professional experiences, but as a member of the queer community with a husband living with HIV, it holds deep personal significance for me” said Joann McEniry, CEO designee.

The staff, center members, and board of trustees of EDGE New Jersey express their deep gratitude for Laurie Litt’s unwavering and trailblazing leadership. A celebratory Gala is planned for October 4, 2025, to honor Litt’s tenure as CEO and welcome Joann McEniry as the next-generation leader of EDGE New Jersey.

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