PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education Meeting – October 9, 2025.
Video: Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education Meeting – October 9, 2025
Boredom Busters Drive for Goryeb Children’s Hospital Brings Smiles to Hospitalized Teens
MORRIS COUNTY — Hospital stays can often feel long and stressful, especially for preteens and teenagers who may find themselves with little to do during recovery. This month, the LEAD Morris Project is helping to change that with the Boredom Busters Drive for Goryeb Children’s Hospital, running through Monday, October 27.
The initiative encourages community members to donate new STEM kits, art projects, and small games to help bring creativity and joy to young patients during extended hospital stays. The focus is specifically on preteens and teens, who are often overlooked in traditional toy drives.
“Every kit or project truly makes a difference,” organizers noted. “Something as simple as a LEGO set, art kit, or STEM project can turn a long hospital day into an afternoon of curiosity, creativity, and connection.”
Recommended Donation Items
Donations must be new items only. Suggested items include:
- LEGO sets
- Playing cards and small games
- Art kits (diamond art, origami, friendship bracelets, etc.)
- STEM kits (robot arm, radio, walkie-talkies, Bluetooth speaker, crystal growing, magnet lab)
- Kinetic sand or similar sensory kits
Drop-Off Locations
Community members can bring their donations to any of the following participating locations:
- Morris County Chamber of Commerce
325 Columbia Turnpike, Florham Park - The Growing Stage – The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey
7 Ledgewood Avenue, Netcong- Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- During performances of Diary of a Wimpy Kid
- Fulton Bank
272 Route 46, Rockaway- Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
- Garden Savings Federal Credit Union Branches:
- Dover Branch, 23 Prospect Street, Dover
- Parsippany Branch, 129 Littleton Road, Parsippany
- South Orange Branch, 15 Scotland Road, South Orange
- Newark Branch, 120 Ferry Street, Newark
- Sayreville Branch, 2909 Washington Road, Parlin
- Brick Branch, 990 Cedar Bridge Avenue, Brick
For those who prefer to make a financial contribution, funds will be used to purchase needed items directly for the children. Donations can be arranged by emailing [email protected] or [email protected].
“We’re so grateful for the community’s compassion and generosity,” said Michael Harrison, a member of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce. “Together, we can brighten hospital days and bring smiles to young faces who need them most.”
The Boredom Busters Drive runs through Monday, October 27, and all contributions—large or small—help make hospital stays a little brighter for the children at Goryeb Children’s Hospital.
County College of Morris Welcomes a New Trustee
PARSIPPANY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners this week announced two appointments to the ten-member County College of Morris (CCM) Board of Trustees, selecting a new member for the board and reappointing a sitting trustee.
Loretta Gragnani of Parsippany was appointed to an open four-year term that begins this month, and George J. Milonas of Wharton, who was first appointed in 2018, was reappointed to a four-year term.
“We’re grateful to Loretta for stepping forward to serve as a trustee and to George for continuing his commitment to CCM. Their leadership and expertise will help strengthen CCM’s position as a top community college in the state, preparing students for successful, high-earning careers,” said Commissioner John Krickus, a board liaison to CCM.
“Loretta brings a wealth of new perspectives and energy to a board that has long exemplified dedicated service to Morris County,” said Commissioner Deborah Smith, who also is a CCM liaison. “It’s equally reassuring to have George return for another term, lending his valuable experience to advance CCM’s mission. We truly appreciate their willingness to serve.”
Ms. Gragnani brings more than 30 years of experience in business management, public service and community leadership to the board. A former co-owner of a successful home design and construction firm, she served on the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council from 2016 to 2023, including as council president, and currently chairs the township’s Zoning Board of Adjustment. She is also a member of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee.
She is also an active volunteer, whose civic involvement includes leadership roles with local schools, organizing hurricane relief efforts, co-chairing the American Cancer Society’s “Relay for Life” community walk, and serving on boards for the Parsippany Day Care Center and the Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms. She received the New Jersey State Volunteer Award from former Gov. Chris Christie for her efforts in helping Parsippany recover from Hurricane Irene.
“CCM not only serves young people starting their college careers, but has strong workforce development programs and cooperation with the (Morris County) Vocational School District, thus providing skills for our residents across a range of interests,” Gragnani said in a letter to the CCM Trustee Search Committee. “As a small business owner for 30 years, I would seek to share those experiences, and insure not only existing business programs, but also the success of the new Entrepreneurial and Culinary Center.”
Mr. Milonas is a CCM graduate, as well as a former detective with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University. He is now an enterprise-risk and compliance expert who helps multi-national corporations identify and prevent financial crimes, currently serving as Senior Director of Compliance Advisory for Corporate Functions at Discover Financial. His career includes leadership roles in corporate security, anti-financial crime and compliance at MetLife, Avis Budget Group and JP Morgan Chase.
From Tashkent to Wadia: The Quiet of Mahat Jalan
MORRIS COUNTY — In an era of relentless visibility, Mahat Jalan is an actor who chooses silence over the spotlight. Though born in Dover, New Jersey, and known in international film circuits, Jalan’s trajectory doesn’t follow the usual arc of red carpets or viral interviews. Instead, his recent path—from the historic streets of Tashkent to the understated lanes of Wadia—reveals a life guided by presence, not promotion.
Stillness on Set in Tashkent
In September 2025, Jalan spent three days in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, filming a French-language feature supported by a Los Angeles-based production house. The project explores displacement, exile, and reinvention—recurring themes that seem to mirror Jalan’s own inner landscape.
According to crew members, Jalan’s time on set was marked by an unusual stillness. During breaks, he wandered Chorsu Bazaar, sketched archways near the Hazrati Imam Complex, and studied light as it passed across walls and minarets. “He doesn’t just stand in a place, he absorbs it,” said a cinematographer working on the project. “It’s as if he’s translating space into emotion.”
A Quiet Diwali in Wadia
Shortly after returning from Uzbekistan, Jalan made a lesser-known journey—traveling by road to Wadia, a remote village in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district. Wadia is seldom in national news, though health reports cite its longstanding challenges with HIV and limited access to care.
Yet for several years now, Jalan has visited Wadia during Diwali. His visits are unannounced. No press. No photos. Just quiet time spent sharing sweets—peda, jalebi, motichoor laddoo—and listening.
“He comes like one of us,” said a local resident and former truck driver living with HIV. “No distance. He just listens. No one else listens.” Another villager added, “He remembers who lost whom. Every year.”
In a world that measures generosity by public gestures, Jalan’s simplicity stands apart.
Tracing Roots — or Letting Them Be
Public records list Jalan’s full name as Raphael H. Tudor, born to a Welsh-Hindu family in Dover. But beneath the surface is a lineage touched by history. In the Cardiff County Archives, a 1952 marriage certificate confirms the union of his grandfather, Indian civil engineer Kishanlal Jalan, and a Welsh woman named Elizabeth Tudor—who later settled in Palanpur, Gujarat, under the name Ratanbaa Jalan.
Rumors have long swirled about a distant connection to the Tudor dynasty. One retired Welsh archivist recalls a 1961 letter referencing “our family’s thinning bloodline, still traced to Henry VII.” Yet Jalan has never confirmed these links. Those close to him say he shows little interest in heritage as validation. “He lives in the now,” said one family friend.
Between Craft and Care
In his work, Jalan leans toward the quiet corners of cinema. Independent features. Art-house screenings. Global film festivals. His performances are meticulous, his public presence minimal.
“He acts for remembrance, not recognition,” said a collaborator from the Tashkent project.
With limited social media and few interviews, he stands in contrast to a culture obsessed with performance, not just on stage but in daily life.
The Choice to Witness
From the blue-tiled courtyards of Uzbekistan to the sun-scorched fields of Wadia, Jalan seems to exist in the in-between—both seen and unseen, rooted and drifting. He sketches mosques one day, then sits beside villagers navigating quiet hardship the next.
For Parsippany, Jalan remains a native son not often seen at local galas or front pages. But his journey—across continents and communities—offers something increasingly rare: a model of quiet commitment, a reminder that one can shape the world not just through visibility, but through presence.
New Jersey Gaming Officials Consider Crypto Integration
New Jersey gaming regulators are weighing whether to allow cryptocurrency in the state’s casino system. The Division of Gaming Enforcement has spent months reviewing how digital currencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum could work with existing player protection rules. Officials said they need to balance new technology with current safety standards.
The current rules do not allow crypto gambling within New Jersey’s licensed casinos. This creates a gap where players who want to use digital currencies go to offshore sites instead. Many of these international platforms operate without the consumer protections that New Jersey requires from its licensed operators.
Players often turn to offshore sites because of convenience features. Some operate as no account casino sites where users can connect their crypto wallet and start playing immediately. These sites skip the registration forms and verification steps that traditional casinos require. A player can link their Bitcoin wallet and be spinning slots within minutes.
State officials recognize the appeal but worry about several issues. Cryptocurrency prices change rapidly throughout each day. A $100 Bitcoin wager at the start of a poker game might be worth $85 or $120 when the hand ends. This volatility makes it hard for casinos to handle accounting and payouts properly.
New Jersey has a track record of gambling innovation. Atlantic City casinos opened in 1976 when most states banned all casino games. Online casinos launched in 2013, years before other states adopted internet gaming. The state also led the 2018 Supreme Court case that opened sports betting across America.
Gaming officials are now considering a “regulatory sandbox” approach for crypto gambling. Licensed operators could test digital currency features under close state supervision. The idea would let casinos accept Bitcoin deposits that convert immediately into U.S. dollars. Players would get crypto convenience without the wild price swings.
Some New Jersey sportsbooks already offer limited crypto options. They accept Bitcoin and Ethereum deposits but convert everything to dollars before placing any bets. This hybrid system addresses volatility concerns while giving players more payment choices.
Federal law adds complications to state decisions. The 2006 Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act creates unclear areas around cryptocurrency transactions. Without clear federal guidance, states must figure out their own approaches to digital currency gambling.
David Rebuck led New Jersey’s gaming enforcement division until his retirement in 2024. He previously said regulators should “sit on the sidelines” and watch crypto developments before making quick decisions. His careful approach still influences current policy discussions.
Consumer protection remains the top priority. New Jersey recently proposed stronger responsible gambling requirements that would force licensed operators to monitor player behavior more closely. Any crypto gambling system would need to include similar safeguards for problem gambling prevention.
The pressure to act keeps building as New Jersey’s online gambling revenue hit record highs in mid-2025. Atlantic City casinos reported year-over-year declines even as online gambling grew. More New Jersey residents try offshore crypto gambling sites each month, taking their money outside the regulated system. Officials said they need to balance innovation with protecting a thriving sector that generates millions in state revenue.
Anti-money laundering rules create another challenge. Cryptocurrency transactions require sophisticated tracking systems to meet federal reporting standards. Licensed operators would need expensive new technology to monitor digital currency flows and flag suspicious activity.
State officials do not expect quick action on crypto gambling rules. New Jersey learned from past gambling expansions that careful planning works better than rushed implementation. They would rather take extra time to get the regulations right than be first to market.
Industry analysts think New Jersey will eventually approve some form of crypto gambling, but officials want strong consumer protections in place first. Other states are watching the approach closely since whatever rules emerge here will likely influence crypto gambling policy elsewhere. Committee hearings might begin later this year if regulators move ahead with crypto gambling rules. The process would require public comment periods and testing before any new regulations go into effect.
Tabor Resident Fitzpatrick’s TEDx Talk Now on YouTube
PARSIPANY — Chris W. Fitzpatrick delivered his impassioned talk, “The Urgency of Mentorship,” to more than 200 attendees at TEDxMontclair on June 24, 2025 at the Montclair Mezzanine. Sharing the story of a young woman whose memorable story was the only one in more than 40,000 interviews. Chris has conducted to bring him to tears, this talk explores the indispensable impact that mentorship has on individuals and communities.
Chris W. Fitzpatrick is a Professional Speaker, Aspiring Game Show Host, and Human Resources Professional who has interviewed more than 40,000 job seekers over a 20-year career in Early Career Talent Acquisition. This talk was given at the TEDxMontclair event, which used the TED conference format but was independently organized by a local community.
Letter to the Editor: The Door Hanger That Made Me Think
Dear Editor:
The other morning, on my way out the door, I spotted a glossy new “Team Barberio” door hanger — the Republican ticket for Mayor and Council in Parsippany. Normally, as a lifelong Republican, I’d toss it straight into the recycling bin without a second thought. But this time, it stopped me.
After the June primary, when the Morris County political machine made sure my preferred Republican candidates lost, I’ve been asking myself what I’m really voting for this November. My Republican friends keep saying, “Tim, hold your nose and vote the ticket.” Sorry — after the last two and a half years, that advice doesn’t smell right.
This administration has sold Parsippany to developers faster than we can sit through another “public hearing.” They’ve ignored residents, disrespected our schools, and turned council meetings into circus acts. Ask a tough question, and you’re labeled the enemy. If standing up for our town makes me a troublemaker, I’ll wear that badge proudly.
Meanwhile, the Morris County “establishment” keeps lecturing us about party unity — the same people who silenced anyone who didn’t play by their rules. Funny how “unity” only seems to matter when it benefits them.
I’d like to tell you I’m switching teams, but honestly, I don’t know much about the Democrats either. They’ve been practically invisible — and if you want people’s votes, showing up is the bare minimum.
So, here’s where I’m at: I won’t stay home, but I won’t vote blindly for a letter next to someone’s name, either. My vote will go to whoever gives a damn about Parsippany, not whoever the Morris County insiders tell me to like.
If that ruffles some feathers — good. It’s about time someone did.
— Tim Berrios, Parsippany
Parsippany Fire District 5 to Host Annual Fire Prevention Open House
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Fire District 5 will host its Annual Fire Prevention Open House on Saturday, October 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Station 2, 200 South Beverwyck Road.
This family-friendly event offers residents the opportunity to meet local firefighters, tour the firehouse, and learn valuable fire safety information. Activities throughout the day will include:
- Kids’ activities
- Touch-a-Truck
- Bounce house
- Fire simulator
- Try-on fire gear and tools
- Fire safety education
In addition to the fun and educational displays, attendees will have the opportunity to see the brand-new Engine 56, which is expected to make its community debut during the event.
Parking will be available at 232 South Beverwyck Road, located next to the firehouse behind the Chinese Christian Church.
Residents of all ages are encouraged to attend and make this year’s Open House even more successful than 2024.
For additional information, visit www.parsippanyfiredistrict5.com or follow Parsippany Fire District 5 on social media.
Letter to the Editor: Bob Crawford’s Excellent Letter on Mayoral Election
Dear Editor:
Musella according to local republicans who voted for James Barberio in the primary is called Little Trump. The local municipal employees feared their jobs would be privatized if Musella won the primary, and became mayor. Many of these employee union members are Trump supporters. So their apparent illogic is, as long as i don’t lose my job, who cares about the big picture.
Barberio Primary Flyers boasted he was a strong Trump Supporter, and Musella was not. This was a falsehood, with hopes that Barberio being the true MAGA Mayor would win the primary. None of this seems to make real sense
MAGA is Fascism a Corporate Coup, beyond the already corporate dominated 2-party system, we must begin to rescue ourselves at the local level. There is such a thing as a lesser of two-evils, and a political party can change over time , which in fact they have, considering Abraham Lincoln was a Republican, and FDR was a democrat.
The illogical mindset becomes this; all politicians are corrupt, so let’s vote for the most corrupted, as the corruption is obvious, but worshipped as something we can all understand, as somehow what politics itself has become in our time for self serving not the betterment of society.
When people do not see, or recognize corruption when it is before them, than we no longer have an educated base or foundation. We are not evolving in any healthy way as a society, we are in fact degenerating. Historical struggles, Laws of Humanity, and Science are put aside, and some alter reality is being created.
In my opinion allowing Nazi or Fascist elements after the historical phenomena of WW2 and the Holocaust is immoral . It shows history itself has no meaning, and that human nature is allowed to remain flawed, and not advance to our betterment. How can freedom depend on allowing the worst in human nature; in order to preserve all our freedoms? Freedom itself is proven to be a negative force if this remains the case.
We have nothing to lose by electing Democrats, it can not get any worse than what it is now in this two-party system we are under law entrusted with “we the people”
Nick Homyak
Parsippany High School Hosts Annual Dig Pink Volleyball Game to Support Breast Cancer Research
PARSIPPANY — On Friday, October 10, the Parsippany High School Girls Volleyball Program will host its annual Dig Pink Game in support of the Side-Out Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding research and treatment for metastatic breast cancer.
The name “Side-Out” comes from a volleyball term meaning to regain control of the ball—and the foundation’s mission reflects that same spirit: to regain control over a disease that affects countless lives each year. Through this special event, the student-athletes are not only playing for points but for progress in the fight against breast cancer.
This year’s game carries added excitement as Parsippany High School will take on Parsippany Hills High School in a crosstown match that unites both sides of the township for a meaningful cause.
Event Details:
- Date: Friday, October 10
- Location: Parsippany High School Gymnasium
- Game Times:
- Junior Varsity at 4:30 p.m.
- Varsity at 6:00 p.m.
- What to Wear: Pink attire is encouraged to show support
Can’t attend but still want to help?
Support the cause by donating through the team’s fundraising page by clicking here.
Join the community in celebrating teamwork, strength, and unity in the face of adversity. Let’s fill the gym with Parsippany pride and raise awareness for a cause that truly matters.
Celebrate Diwali with Light, Color, and Community at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
PARSIPPANY — Diwali, often referred to as the “Festival of Lights,” is a celebration of joy, hope, and togetherness observed by millions around the world. Diwali holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is not only celebrated by Hindus, but by people of various religious and cultural backgrounds, uniting communities through vibrant traditions, spiritual reflection, and shared festivities.
This year, the Diwali celebration at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Parsippany, NJ will highlight the theme of unity, inviting communities to come together to honor shared values, cultural heritage, and spiritual reflection. BAPS welcomes the public to join in the festivities and experience the vibrant traditions of Diwali.
Who: BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Parsippany
What/when: 1. Kids Diwali celebration on Saturday October 18 From 10:00 a.m. Onwards
Registration recommended baps.sl/par-kdc25
2. Diwali Celebration (Laxmi pujan) Monday, October 20 – 6:30 p.m. onwards
Registration recommended https://forms.office.com/r/XqSVky6eZ9
3. Grand Annakut on Saturday, October 25 – 9:00 a.m. onwards
Where: 3, Entin Road, Parsippany
Key highlights of the celebration include:
● Radiant Mandir Decorations: Visitors will be greeted by colorful lights, handcrafted décor, and intricate rangoli designs that reflect the rich artistic traditions of India.
● Annakut Offering: A central feature of Diwali, the Annakut will display hundreds of vegetarian dishes arranged as a symbol of gratitude and devotion.
● Engaging Youth Activities: Children and youth can enjoy interactive programs, games, fireworks, and cultural experiences designed to teach the values and significance of Diwali in a fun, memorable way.
This celebration provides an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, celebrate unity, and share in the joy and warmth of Diwali.
For more information, please contact Jatin Jasani at (973) 580-5359 or email [email protected].
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (B.A.P.S) is a volunteer-driven spiritual organization committed to fostering individual growth through Hindu values of faith, service, and harmony. It enriches society with the devoted efforts of tens of thousands of volunteers from diverse professional and social backgrounds, contributing millions of volunteer hours annually. Under the spiritual leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS nurtures Hindu traditions through its over 120 mandirs in North America and over 5,000 centers worldwide. Through these communities, it champions holistic personal growth, promotes social progress, and encourages diversity by embracing all. For more details, visit http://www.baps.org.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – October 7, 2025
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – Tuesday, October 7, 2025, agenda meeting at 7:00 p.m. at the municipal building.
Click here to download the agenda.
Click here for a copy of the 2025 calendar.
Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided in accordance with the requirements of the Open Public Meetings Law by filing the notice in the Office of the Township Clerk and by posting the meeting notice on the bulletin board at the Municipal Building on December 2, 2024, where it has remained posted since that date. A legal notice appeared in the Daily Record and the Newark Star-Ledger on December 6, 2024.
Mayor James Barberio
Council President Paul Carifi, Jr.
Council Vice President Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella
Councilman Matt McGrath
Councilwoman Judy Hernandez
Focused on Student Success, Fiscal Responsibility, and Community Needs
PARSIPPANY — Susy Golderer and Jack Raia are running for re-election to the Parsippany Board of Education. Both bring the experience and leadership that Parsippany schools and
taxpayers need right now.
Parsippany is facing big decisions about new residential development projects. Most of
these projects are built under special tax deals, called PILOTs, where builders pay the town
but as of right now nothing goes to the schools. These deals will leave schools short of
funding. Susy and Jack have been strong leaders in making sure the schools and taxpayers
are protected.
Jack Raia is seeking his 2nd term. A graduate of Parsippany schools, Jack brings 24
years of financial leadership as a CPA with an MBA in Finance. He has been a strong
voice for smart financial planning and protecting taxpayers.
Their Priorities:
•Protect Parsippany schools from unfair tax deals that cut school funding
•Support student success and help each child discover their talents
•Keep taxes fair and use money wisely
•Make decisions based on experience, facts, and what is best for Parsippany families
Susy Golderer is seeking her 5th term. She has lived in Parsippany for over 29 years,
raised four children in the district, and brings over 36 years of business and
community leadership. She has served as Board President, Vice President, and
Vice President of the Morris County School Boards Association.
On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, make your voice count by voting for Susy Golderer and Jack Raia for the Parsippany Board of Education—dedicated leaders committed to the success of Parsippany’s students, schools, and taxpayers.
Morris County Courthouse, Administration Building Partial Closure
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Courthouse Complex and the Morris County Administration and Records Building in Morristown will be partially closed on Thursday, October 9, 2025 for a planned security exercise.
The Morris County Administration and Records Building will be closed to the public from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The building will reopen at 1:30 p.m. for county business only.
The Morris County Courthouse will be closed to the public from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Court staff will remain available by phone from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at (862) 397-5700. All court matters scheduled after 1:30 p.m. will be heard virtually. Emergent matters will be heard before 11:00 a.m. or virtually after 1:30 p.m.
Anyone seeking a temporary domestic violence restraining order between 10:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on October 9 should apply through the Morristown Police Department or their local police department.
Letter to the Editor: Mayor and Council – A call to action
Dear Editor:
I attended Parsippany’s Town Council meeting on September 25th, to appeal to our mayor and council with a call to action. My request was simple, speak and act in a way that unites the residents of Parsippany. Do not remain silent, allow bullying, and culture wars to continue in our township.
My comments were motivated by recent online harassment of our current council member, Judy Hernandez, as well as the harassment, doxxing, and stalking of Diya Patel, a town council candidate running for a seat in the town election on November 4th.
There is a real attempt by a small minority of hateful members of our community to silence and instill fear in officials and candidates who are working and campaigning on policies that they believe will improve the quality of life for all who live and work in Parsippany.
To be clear – you can and SHOULD have your own opinions on policies and issues Parsippany is facing. However, you SHOULD NOT use your platform for racial harassment!
If you are wondering why I would go as far as to associate these actions with racism, do what I just did. Ask Siri what is a word for harassing and insulting people for their country of origin, the sound of their name, or the color of their skin. Tell me what you get.
None of us are perfect. We are human. At times, we all say or do things that – in hindsight – we may wish we did differently. That is not a reason to publicly crucify people, especially online while hiding behind a keyboard.
To this day, the current mayor and council have not made any statements that might lower the temperature during these very turbulent times.
I strongly feel this to be an extremely dangerous mistake. As I watch in disbelief, crimes motivated by hate and judgement have killed innocent people in our country, in our state. Cranford, NJ is not even 25 miles away from Parsippany Township.
If you do not know what happened there last week, you should research the brutal murder of two teen girls in that town. They were viciously run down by 17-year-old Vincent Battiloro of Garwood, NJ, a self-proclaimed fan of Charlie Kirk. He was upset by the comments one of the girls made about Charlie.
Vincent retaliated by running them over with his Jeep – at 70 mph!!!!
News outlets as well as authorities have confirmed several points. One of the girls had been
reporting his stalking behavior and law enforcement (that includes members of the suspect’s family) repeatedly ignored her cries for help.
They remained silent OR worse – they failed to do their job of protecting a victim!
How many more times will we say “oh, that won’t happen here” how much closer to home do these heinous acts have to be before the leaders in our town will speak out for peace, compassion, and unity? What will it take for them to openly condemn acts proven to be a precursor to real violence?
Look at Cranford!
Lisa Saladino
Pennacchio Blasts Absurd Democrat Suggestion to Seize Trump’s Golf Course for Housing
MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) issued the following statement in response to a foolish suggestion by a New Jersey Democrat to use eminent domain to seize President Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster and convert it into affordable housing:
“Democrats continue to show their true colors when it comes to their high-density housing scheme. They have weaponized the development of low-income housing, using it as a political threat instead of helping solve a basic human need. This latest stunt—targeting open space simply because they don’t like the President—is absurd, vindictive, and completely unserious.
“If Democrats truly cared about making homeownership more affordable in New Jersey, they wouldn’t need to play political games. They’ve controlled the Statehouse for over two decades. Instead of weaponizing affordable housing mandates, they should stop nickel-and-diming our residents to death with higher taxes, fees, tolls, and insurance premiums.
“The real crisis is the cost of living in New Jersey—and it’s a direct result of years of failed Democrat leadership. Going after political opponents’ property and business is a new low, even for them.”
Senator Pennacchio has long criticized Democrats’ overreaching housing mandates, calling for more local control and practical reforms that focus on affordability through tax relief, economic development, and responsible planning.
Parsippany Lions Club and American Red Cross to Host Blood Drive
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Lions Club, in partnership with the American Red Cross, is inviting community members to take part in a life-saving blood donation drive on Saturday, December 13, at the Parsippany Main Library, 449 Halsey Road. The drive will run from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Blood donations are needed now more than ever. According to the American Red Cross, someone in the United States requires blood every two seconds. For some patients, a single donation can make the difference between life and death.
- A burn victim may need as many as 20 units of platelets.
- A car crash victim could require up to 100 units of blood.
“This event is a chance for residents to give back in one of the most meaningful ways possible — by saving lives,” said a Parsippany Lions Club representative.
Appointments are required to participate in the drive. Interested donors may register online at bit.ly/DonateBlood2025 or by scanning the QR code featured on the event flyer.
The Parsippany Lions Club is proud to partner with the Parsippany Library, Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, Kumon, Innovation Intelligence Impact, and Meena Upadhyay of New York Life in support of this important community event.
For more information, email [email protected] or visit www.parsippanylionsclub.org.
Give someone a chance to live — a good deed indeed!
Parsippany High School Girls Soccer Hosts Flapjack Fundraiser at Applebee’s
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany High School Girls Soccer program is inviting the community to enjoy a hearty breakfast for a good cause. On Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m., Applebee’s of Parsippany, located at 1057 Route 46 East, will host a Flapjack Fundraiser to benefit the team.
Tickets are $15 per person, and all proceeds will go directly toward the team’s Senior Banquet and Scholarships. Guests will enjoy a delicious breakfast of pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, and a beverage.
“This event is more than just breakfast—it’s a chance for our community to come together and support the student-athletes who represent Parsippany with pride both on and off the field,” said a team representative.
For additional information or to purchase tickets, contact the team at [email protected].
School of Rock Strikes a Chord in Parsippany with High-Energy Grand Opening
PARSIPPANY — A new beat is pulsing through Parsippany as School of Rock Parsippany officially opened its doors on Sunday, September 7, welcoming families, young musicians, and community leaders for a full day of music, tours, and hands-on demos.
The celebration kicked off with a ribbon cutting attended by Mayor James R. Barberio, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany Economic Development Committee, members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Team, and representatives of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce. Guests packed the lobby as instructors and students and Mayor Barberio traded riffs on stage, showcasing the performance-based music program that has made School of Rock a nationwide favorite.
“Today isn’t just about opening a business—it’s about opening opportunities,” said Rob Corbi. “We’re here to help kids and adults build confidence, find their voice, and experience the joy of performing live music together.”
Frank Cahill emphasized the importance of the school’s arrival in the community. “Parsippany continues to thrive when we welcome businesses that inspire creativity and provide opportunities for our youth,” said Cahill. “School of Rock is more than a music school—it’s an investment in the next generation and a boost to our local economy.”
Throughout the day, visitors toured the rehearsal rooms, vocal and drum studios, and performance space while staff explained how students progress from one-on-one instruction to full band rehearsals and live gigs. Attendees sampled mini-lessons on guitar, bass, drums, piano, and vocals, and signed up for trial sessions and fall enrollment.
Mayor Barberio praised the new addition to Parsippany’s small-business and arts community. “School of Rock brings energy, creativity, and opportunity for our young people,” he said. “It’s a perfect fit for Parsippany and a great sign of our town’s continued growth.”
Parents said they were impressed by the school’s structured curriculum and emphasis on real-stage experience. “My daughter has practiced at home for years,” one parent shared. “Seeing her jump on stage with a band—and light up—that’s priceless.”
What the Program Offers
- All ages & levels. From beginners to advanced players, with tracks for youth and adults.
- Performance-based learning. Private lessons plus weekly group rehearsals that lead to live shows at local venues.
- Pro-level coaching. Experienced instructors guide students through classic rock, pop, indie, and more.
- Gear & safety. Modern rehearsal rooms, stage-ready equipment, and a supportive, inclusive environment.
Community Notes
The School of Rock team plans to partner with local schools, nonprofits, and community events, offering student performances, workshops, and scholarship opportunities. “We’re excited to plug into Parsippany’s vibrant community—on stage and off,” said Rob Corbi. “Expect to see School of Rock students out performing and volunteering all year long.”
How to Get Involved
Families can schedule a tour, book a trial lesson, or enroll in fall programs by contacting School of Rock Parsippany. Limited spots are available for beginner “Rock 101” bands, performance groups, and adult programs.
Voter Registration Deadline for General Election is October 14
MORRIS COUNTY – With just three weeks left before the deadline, New Jersey residents are reminded to register or update their voter registration ahead of the 2025 General Election on Tuesday, November 4.
The deadline to register is Tuesday, October 14. On that day, county offices will also offer extended evening hours to make registration more accessible for residents.
Key dates to remember include:
- November 3, by 3:00 p.m. – Last day to apply in person for a mail-in ballot
- November 4 – General Election Day
Residents can register to vote, update their information, or confirm their registration status online through the New Jersey Division of Elections website.