PARSIPPANY –- The Parsippany Police Athletic League (PAL) is proud to have partnered with the Center for Family Services for their annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, helping to ensure families in need can enjoy a warm meal this holiday season. This community-driven initiative was made even more impactful through the generosity of our exclusive partner, Chick-fil-A, who donated five pounds of food to the drive.

“Our mission at Chick-fil-A extends beyond serving great food; it’s about being a positive force in the communities we serve,” said Charlie Atie, owner and operator of Chick-fil-A. “We’re honored to partner with the Parsippany PAL to help support the Center for Family Services and bring joy to families during the Thanksgiving season.”

The Parsippany PAL is deeply committed to fostering community and giving back, especially during the holidays.

“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in this food drive,” said Tom Bushnauskas, Executive Director of the Parsippany PAL. “This collaboration underscores the power of community partnerships and the generosity of organizations like Chick-fil-A. Together, we can make a meaningful difference for families in need.”

For more information about the Parsippany PAL and how you can get involved in our community initiatives, click here.

About Parsippany PAL:
The Parsippany Police Athletic League is dedicated to providing youth programs, community events, and resources that strengthen the bonds between residents and public safety officials in Parsippany.

About Chick-fil-A Parsippany:
Chick-fil-A Parsippany, operated by Charlie Atie, is committed to serving the community with exceptional hospitality and actively supporting local causes.

Dear Editor:

Since being elected to the Parsippany Board of Education in 2014, I have been committed to advocating for our taxpayers and schoolchildren. Over the past year, this advocacy has led me to speak out at numerous town council meetings, raising concerns about Mayor James Barberio’s unfunded residential development PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) programs that I believe are putting our town in financial jeopardy.

Every time I speak, I start with a necessary disclaimer:

“The following statements are made in my capacity as a private citizen, not as a member of the Board of Education. These statements do not represent the Board or its members and solely reflect my personal opinions.”

This disclaimer is not a choice; it is a legal and ethical requirement under the School Ethics Act (N.J.S.A. 18A:12-21 et seq.).

But instead of engaging with the issues at hand, Mayor Barberio loves to mock this ethical practice, often quipping that he is “a mayor 24/7” and does not need to bother with disclaimers. It’s a clever little distraction that lets him avoid addressing legitimate questions about his controversial policies—questions about unfunded residential PILOT programs, Board of Education audits, and other hot-button issues.

This isn’t just a problem for me. Anyone who dares to question the mayor or voice an opinion he doesn’t like is met with disdain, ridicule, and a seat on his “enemies list.” Instead of responding with facts or accountability, he resorts to insults and theatrics, treating taxpayers who disagree with him as nuisances rather than as the people he is supposed to serve.

It is hard not to laugh at the irony of hearing the word ethics in the same sentence as “Mayor” lately, but the joke isn’t funny when you consider the damage his policies—and his divisive leadership style—are doing to our community. While he is busy making snide remarks, the rest of us are left picking up the pieces of a town burdened by his unfunded programs and lack of transparency.

Parsippany deserves better. We need leaders who answer tough questions, respect dissenting voices, and work to bring people together instead of tearing them down. Until then, I will keep showing up, making my disclaimers, and fighting for the taxpayers and children of this town—whether the mayor likes it or not.

In service to Parsippany,
Tim Berrios

The statements are made in my capacity as a private citizen, not as a member of the Board of Education. These statements do not represent the Board or its members and solely reflect my personal opinions.

PARSIPPANY – This December, Liquid Church is calling on New Jersey residents to make a global impact by participating in a powerful mission to fight hunger. The church is hosting a massive meal-packing event on Friday, December 6th, and Saturday, December 7th, to pack over ONE MILLION MEALS in just one weekend.

The event, organized in partnership with Rise Against Hunger, will take place at seven locations across New Jersey, including Morris, Mercer, Middlesex, Union, and Somerset counties. Locally, residents can join the outreach at 299 Webro Rd, Parsippany-Troy Hills, on Saturday, December 7th, starting at 10:00 a.m.

The meals prepared during this event will be sent to families suffering from chronic malnutrition in Zambia and other developing nations, providing critical nourishment to those in need. With the ambitious target of reaching over one million meals, Liquid Church is seeking 6,000 volunteers to make this vision a reality.

“This is more than just a meal-packing event,” said a representative from Liquid Church. “It’s an opportunity to come together as a community, give back, and make a tangible difference for families around the world during the Christmas season.”

The event is open to everyone and is family-friendly, making it a perfect way for people of all ages to serve together during the holidays. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their families, friends, or coworkers to share in the experience of giving back.

Participants can register online by clicking here to secure their spot.

Join Liquid Church in spreading hope and love this holiday season by being part of this life-changing outreach. With your help, this extraordinary mission to fight global hunger can become a reality.

MORRIS COUNTY — Mikie Sherrill — a former U.S. Navy helicopter aircraft commander, former federal prosecutor, U.S. Congresswoman, and mom of four — launched her campaign for governor, on a mission to get big things done for New Jersey. In her announcement video, Mikie shares how she will bring new leadership and a fresh perspective to New Jersey to build more housing, grow the economy, lower costs for families, and defend our freedoms. 

On Tuesday, she will hit the road to hear from New Jerseyans about the issues that matter most and what they want for our future. Her first stop will be Eva’s Village in Paterson to visit with New Jerseyans in need along with Mayor Andre Sayegh. Then, Mikie will meet with LiUNA members working at the Rutgers Cancer Institute construction project in New Brunswick. Next, she will speak with patients and providers at the Visiting Nurses Association’s (VNA) Red Bank Community Health Center. Finally, Tuesday’s tour will end in Atlantic City with the New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association — the state’s largest firefighters union.

Here is the script: 

We’ve been through a lot these past couple of years. 

There’ve been crises in this country, all over the world, and here in New Jersey.

And after this election, we know people are more divided than ever on how to move forward.

I’m Mikie Sherrill.

As a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and a former Navy helicopter aircraft commander, here’s something I learned early on:

In a crisis, the worst thing you can do is freeze. 

You have to choose to lead, to follow, or get out of the way.

So we can either stand aside, or we can get to work on New Jersey’s future.

And I know which one I pick. In New Jersey, we don’t whine, we work.

Every time I pass that bridge in Trenton and see the sign, “Trenton Makes, The World Takes” — I think, “Hell yeah, that’s New Jersey.”

This is the state, more than any other, that guaranteed our freedom as we fought for independence.

This is the state that built this nation. And while we were at it, we even invented the light bulb.

We’ve always been unafraid to do the big things — because we’re inventors and innovators and builders. 

And we work with our minds and our hands.

So let’s be the state that builds more housing, let’s fix the economy, let’s make life more affordable for hardworking New Jerseyans, from health care to groceries to childcare.

These challenges aren’t new and it’s time to confront them head on.

We can also be the state that sets the gold standard for protecting rights and freedoms, and we know they’ll be under attack from Donald Trump’s Washington.

Because in New Jersey, we love our country, we’re proud of our state, and we value our freedoms.

We’ll defend them with everything we’ve got.

In the Navy, I was on a mission to protect our country. 

Now, I’m announcing my candidacy for governor, on a mission to get things done for New Jersey.

This will be a campaign we build together because we all have a place and a say in New Jersey’s future.

And I’ve met so many people who believe as deeply as I do in the promise of our state. And I’m asking you to join us.

So New Jersey, let’s build something.

Mikie Sherrill is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and a former helicopter aircraft commander who served in the Navy for nearly 10 years. She worked as an Assistant U.S. Attorney to keep communities safe and get illegal guns off our streets. In her first-ever run for office, she led a grassroots movement and was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2018. Her campaign — where she drove an entrenched Republican incumbent out of the race — marked the biggest swing from red to blue in the country that year. 

As a mother of four, Mikie is a strong voice in Congress for New Jersey families. Mikie is working hard to bring down costs — whether it’s grocery prices, child care, or Trump’s SALT cap that punished New Jerseyans. After constant roadblocks from the Christie and Trump administrations, Mikie helped deliver New Jersey’s fair share of federal funding on the Gateway Tunnel Project — the single-largest infrastructure project in American history, which will create good-paying union jobs and reduce commute times. She is fighting for reproductive freedom, defending abortion rights, as well as access to contraception and IVF. She sits on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party. 

In 2023, Mikie was named the most effective New Jersey House lawmaker by the nonpartisan Center for Effective Lawmaking for her years of work delivering for Garden State residents. 

Mikie and her husband Jason, a fellow Naval Academy graduate, live in Montclair, and have four children. Her eldest daughter is currently serving in the U.S. Navy, following in her parents’ path of service. Mikie holds a Bachelor’s degree from the U.S. Naval Academy, a Master’s degree in Global History from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a law degree from Georgetown University. 

PARSIPPANY — Looking to add a furry friend to your family? The Parsippany Animal Shelter is now accepting applications for five adorable puppies: Sloane, Auggie, Ruthie, Kenzie, and Holden.

Born on September 16th, these sweet pups will be ready to join their forever homes next week. While in foster care, they have received plenty of socialization, making them well-prepared for family life. When fully grown, they are expected to weigh between 40-50 pounds.

If you’re interested in giving one of these pups a loving home, please submit an adoption application by clicking here. Suitable applicants will be contacted promptly to schedule a meet-and-greet.

Don’t miss your chance to welcome one of these lovable companions into your life!

PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, September 22, 2024, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge took part in the annual Vet Fest, lending their support to honor and assist veterans. Volunteers from the lodge helped with the event setup and proudly presented a generous $4,000 donation to Operation Chill Out, an organization dedicated to aiding homeless veterans.

Operation Chill Out’s mission focuses on providing essential services, including housing assistance and winter clothing, to ensure no veteran is left without the support they need.

A heartfelt thank you to the Elks members and all participants who made this event possible, demonstrating true community spirit and support for our veterans.

PARSIPPANY — Asian Wok, located at 184 Parsippany Road, officially opened its doors, marking the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local officials and community members. The restaurant aims to offer a diverse array of Asian cuisine including various dishes from the Chinese cuisine for the Parsippany community.

Owner Nancy Yeung expressed her enthusiasm about bringing authentic Asian flavors to the area. “We are thrilled to open our doors in Parsippany and welcome everyone to experience our take on authentic Asian cuisine,” said Yeung. “It’s been our dream to create a place where families and friends can enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes together.”

The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured remarks from Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio and Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill. Cahill praised the new establishment, stating, “Asian Wok is exactly the type of diverse, quality business we want to see flourish here in Parsippany. Nancy Yeung’s commitment to excellence and her passion for creating a welcoming atmosphere are evident, and I’m confident this restaurant will quickly become a community favorite.”

Asian Wok’s menu boasts a variety of dishes designed to cater to a wide range of palates. Signature offerings include General Tso’s Chicken, Orange Chicken, and their signature shrimp. The restaurant also accommodates various dietary preferences, providing vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-sodium options.

The establishment’s contemporary design and inviting ambiance create a comfortable dining experience for patrons. The interior features modern décor with traditional Asian elements, aiming to provide a warm and welcoming environment for both casual diners and those celebrating special occasions.

In addition to dine-in services, Asian Wok offers takeout options for customers seeking the convenience of enjoying their meals at home. Orders can be placed by calling (973) 877-8269 or through the restaurant’s website by clicking here. The website provides an easy-to-navigate platform where customers can view the full menu, check operating hours, and find contact information.

Asian Wok operates Monday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The restaurant is committed to providing exceptional service and high-quality cuisine to the Parsippany community.

As the ribbon was cut, applause filled the air, signaling the official opening of the restaurant. Asian Wok is now open daily for lunch and dinner, with both dine-in and takeout options available.

MORRIS COUNTY — The shadow chief executive officer of National Realty Investment Advisors LLC (NRIA) was sentenced to 144 months in prison for orchestrating a scheme to defraud more than 2,000 investors in a $658 million Ponzi scheme and conspiring to evade millions of dollars in tax liabilities, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger confirmed. (Click here to read the complaint)

Thomas Nicholas Salzano, aka “Nicholas Salzano,” 66, of Secaucus, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Evelyn Padin to securities fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and conspiracy to defraud the United States. Salzano admitted he made numerous misrepresentations to investors while he secretly ran NRIA behind the scenes. He admitted to misappropriating millions of dollars from investors to enrich himself and his family and friends. Salzano also admitted to misappropriating millions of dollars from investors to enrich himself and his family and friends and failing to report and pay taxes on those misappropriated funds. Judge Padin imposed the sentence in Newark federal court.

“For years, Salzano, operating from the shadows to conceal his prior history of fraud,  told lie after lie to investors, continuously deceived them, and operated his business as a Ponzi scheme, through which he stole money from thousands of investors to support his lavish lifestyle. His greed and flagrant disregard for the law caused staggering losses of over $650 million. This office will continue to prioritize prosecuting individuals, like Salzano, who engage in rampant fraud to ensure they are held accountable with long jail sentences and are ordered to make their victims whole,” said U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger.

“Salzano trampled on the trust that his clients placed in him to invest their money prudently but instead he stole their investments for his self-enrichment through his atrocious scheme which resulted in the theft of over $650 million,” said Harry Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office. “Today’s sentencing of Salzano should send a message to others who choose to prey on innocent victims through similar investment fraud schemes that IRS – Criminal Investigation and our law enforcement partners are committed to pursuing justice for all Americans that are victimized by these schemes. Salzano’s clients were not the only victims of this scheme, every American taxpayer was also victimized by Salzano when he failed to pay tens of millions of dollars in taxes which would have funded local schools, infrastructure projects, and social programs for those in need.”

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

From February 2018 through January 2022, Salzano and others defrauded investors and potential investors of NRIA Partners Portfolio Fund I LLC (the “Fund”), a real estate fund operated by NRIA, of $650 million through lies, deception, misleading statements, and material omissions. These included the financial position of NRIA, the manner in which the defendants and their conspirators used Fund investor money, Salzano’s managerial role at NRIA, and his history of fraud.

Salzano and his conspirators executed their scheme through an aggressive multiyear, nationwide marketing campaign that involved thousands of emails to investors; advertisements on billboards, television, and radio; and meetings and presentations to investors. Salzano led and directed the marketing campaign, which employed deception, material misrepresentations and omissions, and falsified documents to manipulate investors, which were intended to mislead Fund investors into believing that NRIA was a solvent business that generated significant profits. In reality, NRIA generated little to no profits and operated as a Ponzi scheme, which was kept afloat by new investors. Despite investing almost none of his capital into the business, Salzano misappropriated millions of dollars of investor money to support his lavish lifestyle, including expensive dinners, extravagant birthday parties, and payments to family and associates who did not work at NRIA.

Salzano concealed his true managerial role at NRIA in an effort to avoid scrutiny from investors of his history of fraud at a large telecommunications company. In addition to defrauding investors, Salzano orchestrated a separate, but related, conspiracy to avoid paying taxes on his misappropriated funds.

In addition to the prison term, Judge Padin sentenced Salzano to three years of supervised release. As part of his plea agreement, Salzano has agreed to a forfeiture money judgment of $8.52 million, full restitution of $507.4 million to the victims of his offenses, and has agreed to pay $6.46 million to the IRS.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Chavis in Boston; and special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado in Newark, with the investigation, with assistance from FBI Headquarters Criminal Investigative Division.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan Fayer, Lauren E. Repole, and John Mezzanotte, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division, and Trial Attorney Samuel Bean of the U.S. Justice Department’s Tax Division. 

MORRIS COUNTY — The Knights of Columbus Council 3495 in Morris Plains is gearing up for an exciting evening of camaraderie and competition with their Poker/Texas Hold’em Fundraiser. Scheduled for Saturday, December 14, at The Red Oaks School, this event promises to bring together the community for a night of fun, all in support of local nonprofit charities.

The fundraiser is organized in collaboration with Mike’s Poker Tables, a trusted and state-certified operator. Proceeds from the evening will benefit numerous charitable organizations, making every hand play a contribution to meaningful causes.

Participants are invited to arrive between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. for registration and a light dinner, generously donated by local favorites Jersey Mike’s and Dunkin’ Donuts. The event will also feature a BYOB policy, allowing attendees to bring wine or beer to enhance the experience. The poker games will commence after dinner, with larger turnouts leading to bigger prize payouts—and, in turn, more funds raised for charity.

Council 3495 is encouraging everyone to spread the word among family and friends to ensure the evening’s success. “The more, the merrier,” a council representative shared. “Not only does a larger crowd make for an exciting game, but it also allows us to maximize our contributions to the community.”

Admission is payable by cash or check, and registration is easy. Interested participants can sign up by scanning the QR code on the event flyer or visiting Mike’s Poker Tables Event Page.

As the date approaches, the Knights of Columbus are hopeful for a great turnout and are thankful for the support of their sponsors and the community. “This event is a wonderful opportunity to have fun while giving back,” they said. “We can’t wait to see everyone there!”

Mark your calendars for December 14 and join the Knights for a memorable night of poker, prizes, and philanthropy.

PARSIPPANY – The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir hosted a grand Diwali celebration on November 2, welcoming visitors to experience the deep-rooted traditions of the Festival of Lights.  It is a time for spiritual reflection, rejuvenation, and community celebration, observed by millions of Hindu communities across the globe.

Devotees, well-wishers, and visitors were welcomed into a beautiful environment at the mandir, filled with colorful decorations and the vibrant spirit of Indian art and culture. Volunteers and devotees dedicated weeks of preparation to create an experience that balanced traditional rituals with contemporary community expressions.

Diwali is more than just a celebration of lights—it’s a time to reignite the values of compassion, togetherness, and selflessness within our community. It reminds us that when we come together, we not only share in the joy of the festival but also strengthen the bonds that keep our community thriving. 

Parsippany Mayor James Barberio said “Trust, Loyalty, and honesty are important values for American families. He thanked the BAPS community in Parsippany for including him and being part of the BAPS Family.”

One of the celebration’s highlights was the ‘Annakut’, an impressive offering of hundreds of vegetarian dishes offered to the Divine as a symbol of gratitude. The intricate arrangement of food, prepared by devotees, young and old, reflected the community’s devotion. 
Preparing for the Annakut is a memorable and unique experience every year. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the love, unity, and dedication of all volunteers we all bring to the table, and how we come together to create something meaningful for everyone,” explained Gunatit Patel, a volunteer.

“The preparation begins very early in the morning for us,” explained Sonal Patel. “The vegetarian food is traditionally arranged in tiers or steps in front of the sacred images of God. Today, over 600 food items have been offered as a symbol of our devotion and gratitude.

In addition to the Annakut, the mandir’s Diwali celebrations featured vibrant decorations, including handcrafted rangoli designs throughout the premises, adding to the festive decor. Families and guests were able to partake in a variety of youth activities, such as fireworks, games, and educational programs that engagingly taught the significance of Diwali.

This year’s Diwali celebration is a continuation of BAPS’s year-long commemoration of 50 Years in North America, reflecting on five decades of cherished memories, sacrifices, and growth. Through the pillars of service, culture, faith, values, and inspiration, BAPS has not only preserved Hindu traditions but also impacted communities across the continent and around the world.

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj extended his heartfelt blessings, saying, “May everyone find happiness—physically, mentally, and financially. May all your noble wishes come true, and may your firm conviction in God grow stronger, leading to an ever-deepening devotion.”

Mandirs across North America hosted festive celebrations, inviting visitors to join in the shared joy of Diwali. The multiple days of Diwali are rooted in rich traditions and rituals that represent new beginnings and a strengthened commitment to family. As the lights of Diwali continue to illuminate hearts and minds, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in [Parsippany, NJ] remains a hub of cultural and spiritual enrichment, bringing communities together in celebration of love, peace, and goodwill.

More details at www.baps.org

About BAPS

BAPS 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 in over 115 North American and 3,500 communities worldwide. Through these communities, it champions holistic personal growth, promotes social progress, and encourages diversity by embracing all. For more details, visit www.baps.org. 

About Mahant Swami Maharaj

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj is the sixth and current spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. He was ordained a swami by Yogiji Maharaj in 1961 and named Sadhu Keshavjivandas. As he was appointed the head (Mahant) of the Mandir in Mumbai, he became known as Mahant Swami. His devout, humble, and service-focused life earned him the innermost blessings of Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Mahant Swami Maharaj travels throughout the world inspiring people through his insightful spiritual discourses and disciplined conduct. His virtuous lifestyle and profound devotion to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and gurus are ideals toward which devotees strive. Mahant Swami Maharaj became the guru and President of BAPS upon Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s passing in 2016.