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PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany hosted a lively and heartwarming St. Patrick’s Party on Monday, March 17. The event brought the community together for an evening filled with Irish charm, generous hospitality, and local camaraderie.

The venue was decorated in festive green décor, four-leaf clovers, and a welcoming spirit. Guests began arriving at 6:30 p.m., greeted by the sounds of traditional Irish music and the warm atmosphere of community connection.

Guests celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with smiles, laughter, and festive spirit!

The event featured an exciting lineup of entertainment and activities, including a performance by Irish dancers, a tricky tray, raffles, and a buffet dinner, offering various delicious options for every palate. Guests also enjoyed access to a full bar, making it a truly celebratory experience for all in attendance.

The evening wasn’t just about fun—it also served a meaningful purpose. With a suggested donation of $30.00, proceeds from the event will support various Kiwanis initiatives that benefit children and families throughout Parsippany. These initiatives include scholarships, youth leadership programs, and local service projects that make a lasting impact on the community.

“The energy in the room was fantastic,” said Frank Cahill, Governor-Elect of NJ District Kiwanis International. “Events like this truly reflect the heart of our community—good people coming together for a great cause and enjoying each other’s company. It’s a reminder of what makes Parsippany such a special place to live and give back.”

Attendees mingled, laughed, and connected throughout the evening—some catching up with old friends, others making new ones. The raffle tables sparked excitement, the buffet kept everyone coming back for seconds, and the Irish dancers were a highlight that had guests clapping along in admiration.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany extends heartfelt thanks to its generous event sponsors, Tricore Construction, Focus Magazine, and ShopRite, whose support made the celebration a success.

As the evening ended, guests left with full hearts and stomachs, looking forward to the next community gathering. The St. Patrick’s Party honored Irish heritage and celebrated the strength and warmth of Parsippany’s community spirit.

Residents Revolt Against Mayor Barberio’s Power Play, Forcing Town Council Meeting Shutdown

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Mar 19, 2025

PARSIPPANY — Over 250 outraged residents packed the March 18 Parsippany Town Council meeting, forcing its shutdown to protest what many saw as political “lawfare” by Mayor James Barberio. The controversy centered on Barberio’s push to censure his only primary opponent, Councilman Justin Musella, over a previously disclosed speeding incident.

Tensions boiled over as Council President Carifi initially insisted that those without seats “stand in the hallway or leave,” further inflaming the already furious crowd. Heated exchanges erupted between Barberio and residents before the fire inspector declared the meeting over capacity. The Township Clerk then urged a vote to adjourn, with Councilmembers Hernandez, Musella, and Carifi voting in favor. At the same time, McGrath and Neglia opposed, despite the Fire Official Bob Schmitt’s orders to end the meeting.

In response to the overwhelming public support against his censure, Councilman Musella expressed gratitude and reaffirmed the community’s stance. “Parsippany residents see through Jamie Barberio’s political stunt—a desperate attempt to divert attention from the real challenges caused by his failed policies. Tonight’s overwhelming turnout proves the people won’t tolerate this baseless lawfare. It’s time to end the games and focus on what truly matters.”

Standing room only: Over 250 residents, many forced to stand, filled the Parsippany Town Council meeting in protest, leading to its abrupt shutdown.

“Tonight’s Town Council meeting was derailed by a reckless stunt orchestrated by Councilman Justin Musella and his supporters to evade accountability. Musella was set to be censured for repeatedly abusing his position by flashing his council credentials during traffic stops—an unethical misuse of power. Instead of facing the facts, he packed the meeting with his allies, creating a safety hazard that forced the Fire Marshal to shut it down. This wasn’t about transparency but a blatant attempt to obstruct the truth. Parsippany deserves leaders who respect the law, not politicians who manipulate public meetings for their gain,” said Mayor James Barberio.

But the drama didn’t end in the council chambers. After the meeting, Council Vice President Frank Neglia escalated tensions by filing a complaint against resident Tim Berrios, alleging that Berrios called him names during the heated session. Neglia even went as far as sending police to Berrios’ home, further inflaming concerns about abuse of power within the council. He also accused Berrios of challenging him to meet in the parking lot—an allegation Berrios denies. Many residents at the meeting see this as yet another example of the toxic political culture gripping the Barberio administration and its allies.

Now, a new meeting at a larger venue will be scheduled—giving Barberio another shot at censuring Musella, but with an even more engaged and emboldened public watching.

Empowering the Next Generation of Business Innovators

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Mar 18, 2025

Women entrepreneurs are driving significant advancements in the business world, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative strategies to various industries. Their leadership and problem-solving skills are reshaping corporate structures, fostering inclusive workplaces, and driving sustainable business practices. From launching startups to leading multinational corporations, women in business play a crucial role in shaping the future of commerce through their adaptability, creativity, and commitment to progress.

The Growing Influence of Women in Business

Beyond traditional leadership roles, women in business are embracing technology, data-driven decision-making, and cutting-edge strategies to stay ahead in competitive markets. Their ability to navigate evolving consumer trends, implement innovative marketing tactics, and foster strong collaborations positions them as key players in modern business landscapes. Whether in finance, technology, or entrepreneurship, women are leveraging digital tools and forward-thinking business models to drive efficiency and success.

Structured education plays a vital role in supporting the advancement of women in business. Business degree programs, professional certifications, and leadership training initiatives equip women with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their respective fields. These educational pathways provide a strong foundation in business fundamentals, strategic decision-making, and industry-specific expertise, enabling women to confidently step into leadership roles. Additionally, mentorship programs and networking opportunities help bridge the gender gap, fostering connections that lead to professional growth and long-term success.

The Importance of Research, Ethics, and Evidence-Based Practices

A critical aspect of modern business success is the ability to make informed decisions based on research and ethical considerations. Women in business are increasingly prioritizing ethical leadership, corporate responsibility, and sustainability initiatives to create a positive impact on society. Evidence-based business practices, rooted in thorough market research and data analysis, empower women entrepreneurs and executives to implement effective strategies that drive growth and innovation.

Moreover, ethical leadership is essential in today’s rapidly changing economy. Transparency, accountability, and corporate social responsibility are becoming integral components of business strategies, and women in business are at the forefront of these efforts. By championing ethical business models and sustainable practices, women leaders are not only enhancing their own enterprises but also setting new industry standards for responsible corporate behavior.

Emerging Trends and Advancements

As industries continue to evolve, several key trends are shaping the future of business and entrepreneurship. Digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and automation are redefining business operations, and women leaders are leveraging these technologies to optimize processes and enhance productivity. Additionally, the rise of remote work and digital collaboration tools has created new opportunities for women to establish and expand their businesses beyond geographical limitations.

Another emerging trend is the increasing focus on diversity and inclusion within organizations. Companies that prioritize gender diversity and equitable leadership opportunities benefit from a broader range of perspectives, leading to better decision-making and improved business outcomes. Women in business are playing a crucial role in advocating for workplace equity, implementing policies that support work-life balance, and fostering an inclusive corporate culture.

Practical Steps for Success

For aspiring women entrepreneurs and business professionals, several actionable steps can pave the way for long-term success:

Invest in Education and Skill Development: Pursuing business degrees, specialized certifications, and leadership training programs can provide the necessary tools to navigate complex business environments.
Build a Strong Professional Network: Connecting with mentors, industry leaders, and peers can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
Embrace Technology and Innovation: Leveraging digital tools, data analytics, and automation can enhance efficiency and drive business growth.
Advocate for Workplace Diversity: Championing inclusivity and equitable leadership opportunities fosters a stronger, more dynamic business ecosystem.
Stay Informed on Industry Trends: Keeping up with emerging business trends and market shifts ensures adaptability and long-term success.

The contributions of women in business are essential in shaping the future of commerce. By embracing education, ethical leadership, and innovation, women entrepreneurs and professionals are driving meaningful change across industries. As more women step into leadership roles and break barriers, the business world will continue to evolve, creating a more inclusive and dynamic economic landscape for future generations.

AG Platkin Acts Against Gun Stores for Repeated Unlawful Sales to Unverified Buyers

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Mar 18, 2025

display-case — A beautifully crafted custom-built display case showcases an impressive selection of firearms and accessories, enhancing the shopping experience for customers.

EAST HANOVER — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin confirmed the filing of civil lawsuits against two licensed New Jersey firearms retailers for repeatedly selling gun-related products to undercover investigators without the buyer demonstrating that they could lawfully possess a firearm. The stores are Butch’s Gun World in Vineland and Point Blank Guns and Ammo in East Hanover. Each store’s sales included selling a 1,000-round case of AR-15 rifle ammunition for cash. Such unsafe and irresponsible sales are unlawful, and these suits aim to deter such conduct in the future. (Click here to download the complaint)

These actions enforce compliance with this important requirement, which protects the public against threats and gun violence by persons who acquire gun-related products even though they cannot lawfully possess them. Such persons include, though are not limited to, persons with prior felony convictions, persons prohibited from having firearms under domestic violence restraining orders, those on terrorist watch lists, persons who were previously confined for mental health disorders, and more.

“Keeping guns out of the wrong hands is a critical public safety priority. That is why the Legislature required New Jersey’s gun industry to adopt meaningful measures to avoid selling ammunition and other gun-related products to people who cannot legally possess a gun,” said Attorney General Platkin. “The compliance requirements this law imposes are no different from the demands we place on other industries that create a hazard to human health, and we will enforce our law.”

Case of .223 caliber rifle ammunition, purchased from Point Blank Guns and Ammo purchased on May 30, 2024

“Almost a year ago, we notified the gun industry of our first actions under the 2022 legislation. That law requires anyone selling gun-related parts, including ammunition, to take steps to ensure that they are selling only to those legally permitted to possess firearms,” said Ravi Ramanathan, Director of the Statewide Affirmative Firearms Enforcement Office (SAFE). “We were disappointed to find not one, but two, gun shops selling cases of AR-15 ammunition for cash without first verifying that the buyers can lawfully possess firearms.”

Earlier this year, investigators from SAFE visited these stores and made purchases with cash.

In March 2024, Butch’s Gun World sold a 20-round box of .223 caliber ammunition—a high-velocity, military-standard rifle ammunition often used in AR-15-style rifles—and a handgun ammunition magazine to a first-time customer.
In June 2024, a different Butch’s salesperson sold a 1,000-round case of .223 caliber ammunition to a different first-time customer.
In March 2024, a Point Blank Guns and Ammo salesperson sold a handgun ammunition magazine to a first-time buyer.
In May 2024, a Point Blank Guns and Ammo salesperson sold a 1,000-round case of .223 caliber ammunition to a different first-time customer.

The magazine sold by Point Blank Guns and Ammo on March 20, 2024

The stores did not ask for the purchaser’s identification, permit, or credential in each instance. Instead, the stores made sales—including vast quantities of lethal ammunition for cash—without any apparent steps to exclude sales to prohibited firearms possessors.

These matters are being handled by Deputy Attorneys General Jonathan Mangel, Giancarlo Piccinini, Loren Miller, and Honors Law Clerk Andrea Cavazos under the supervision of Assistant Attorney General David Leit of the Special Litigation Section within the Division of Law’s Affirmative Civil Enforcement Practice Group.

NewBridge Leader Honored for Transformative Impact in Mental Health

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Mar 18, 2025

MORRIS COUNTY — For more than a quarter century, Victoria ‘Viki’ Ferlauto has been a driving force behind groundbreaking mental health initiatives. This spring, New Jersey Association of Mental Health and Addiction Agencies (NJAMHAA) will honor her dedication and leadership with its 2025 Courage and Compassion Award.

“Viki leads with heart, tackles challenges with determination, and devotes herself fully to the well-being of others,” said NewBridge Services CEO Michelle Borden. “She has cultivated an environment of care, innovation, and inclusivity that benefits both clients and staff.”

Ferlauto joined NewBridge Services in 1998 and oversaw its adult psychiatric day treatment program before Borden promoted her to executive director of counseling services in 2022. “She is one of the most dedicated, compassionate, and effective professionals in our field,” Borden said.

NJAMHAA will honor Ferlauto on April 8 at its spring conference, “Looking Beyond the Horizon in Behavioral Health,” at the APA Hotel Woodbridge in Iselin. “Viki’s leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact on mental health care in New Jersey,” said NJAMHAA President and CEO Debra L. Wentz.

“I am deeply grateful for this wonderful recognition by such esteemed colleagues and my supervisor. Doing good in our world is my primary goal and the only way forward is together,” Ferlauto said.

As executive director of counseling services, Ferlauto oversees three outpatient counseling centers and two adult psychiatric day treatment programs across Morris, Passaic, and Sussex counties. Her influence extends beyond NewBridge Services. After NewBridge joined forces with Christian Health last year, Ferlauto began supervising clinical staff there as well.

One of Ferlauto’s most impactful efforts has been leading NewBridge’s Zero Suicide initiative. Under her leadership, every staff member — not just clinicians —was trained to recognize and respond to warning signs, creating a stronger safety net for clients. Thanks to this effort, NewBridge saw no client suicides in 2024.

Throughout her career, Ferlauto has demonstrated innovative problem-solving, especially in times of crisis. When the COVID-19 pandemic halted in-person treatment in March 2020, she quickly adapted the adult psychiatric day treatment program. Clients who attended in person on a Friday were able to access group therapy from home the following Monday through conference calls. (This pre-dated video conferencing.) Months later, Ferlauto oversaw the safe return to in-person treatment, ensuring clients received continuous support during an especially isolating time.

Ferlauto fosters a culture of mentorship and collaboration, strengthening both staff and client care, Borden said. “She understands that by supporting the well-being of mental health professionals, they, in turn, can provide better care for clients,” Borden said, adding that Ferlauto’s leadership helped build a more unified organization.

“I’m grateful to work alongside such dedicated colleagues and to help our clients find hope and healing,” Ferlauto said.

Letter to the Editor: Stop the Political Persecution of Justin Musella – Stand for Fairness in Parsippany!

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Mar 18, 2025

Dear Editor:

We urge our fellow Parsippany residents to stand up against a blatant and unjust attack on a dedicated public servant. Political opponents of rising Republican leader Justin Musella are engaging in a baseless smear campaign in an attempt to derail his candidacy for Mayor of Parsippany.

We cannot allow this type of political maneuvering to go unchecked. We call on all residents who believe in fairness and integrity to join us at Parsippany Town Hall at 7:00 p.m. this evening, Tuesday, March 18, to send a clear message to Mayor Barberio, Inglesino, and their allies: Enough is enough!

This is not just about one man—it’s about standing against political persecution in our town. Only by coming together can we make a difference.

Sincerely,
Mary Beth & Richard Young

Letter to the Editor: Justin Musella: Preaching Accountability, Dodging Responsibility

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Mar 18, 2025

Dear Editor:

Well, well, well—what do we have here? Another instance of Councilman Musella speeding through residential roads.

I didn’t even need to see this or any other potential incidents, his painfully bad response to McGrath and Carifi’s follow-up questions at the last council meeting told me everything I needed to know. If Justin had never handed over his councilman card before, his response would have been stern and confident. Instead, he panicked and stuttered, with zero conviction behind his answer. I already suspected he had multiple run-ins like this, and now it’s becoming clear. How many more are there? Honestly, I don’t even care. What matters is that Justin had the chance to come clean, and instead, he blatantly lied.

He acts like he’s above the law, zipping around town in his Tesla, all while advocating for residents who are concerned about speeding in their neighborhoods. Not sure why you thought it was okay to complain about a lack of police presence when you were fully aware that the cops were active on that street—because you had just been pulled over there. Did you tell those residents about your speeding? Also curious, since you’ve now been caught handing your credentials to officers twice, have you been upfront with your supporters about your indiscretions? Are you sending texts and making calls to be transparent, or are you just working behind the scenes so your people can try to do damage control?

So not only is he a liar, but he’s also willing to throw around his political credentials to get himself out of trouble. If this is what he does over a traffic stop, what happens when the stakes are higher? If he becomes mayor, what kind of backroom deals will he make? He’s already shown he’s comfortable lying in public what happens when money and power are on the line? Who will he put in positions of influence?

And if his excuse is that he doesn’t remember, that’s even worse. A 30-something-year-old man with a memory so bad he can’t recall abusing his position?

For those defending him, let’s be real: one time, maybe you argue a cop made a judgment call, it happens. But a second time? Still defending that? If there are more, that’s a pattern.

Here’s some advice, Justin: slow down both in your car and in your hypocrisy. Start practicing what you preach, because at this point, you’re just embarrassing yourself.

Michael Smith

Letter to the Editor: Baseless Attacks Won’t Deter Musella’s Leadership

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Mar 18, 2025

Dear Editor:

The recent allegations of misconduct are completely fabricated, designed solely to tarnish an otherwise distinguished and impeccable public record.

Mr. Musella’s political adversaries see him as a threat and are resorting to desperate tactics to slow his trajectory of winning the Parsippany mayrol race.

I have known Mr. Musella for nearly a year, and I believe him to be a person of the highest moral and ethical standards. His dedication to public service, integrity, and commitment to our community are undeniable.

I stand firmly behind him and urge others to see these accusations for what they truly are—an unfounded attempt to discredit an exemplary leader.

Haris Mahmood
Parsippany Resident

Letter to the Editor: Mayor’s Political Attacks from Parsippany’s Real Issues

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Mar 18, 2025

Dear Editor:

“Beware the Ides of March” is something I thought only existed in the classrooms where I’ve taught. I never thought I would be witnessing a Shakespearean tragedy unfold in the town I have lived in my whole life.

I generally refrain from political commentary, but the exceptional circumstances around the Mayor’s vendetta against his opponent are so outrageous I felt the need to speak out. Mayor Barberio is committing “character assassination” against Councilman Musella for the most absurd reasons. This race should stay within the boundaries of the political issues my neighbors and I care about: skyrocketing taxes, degrading infrastructure, and the rampant overbuilding around Lake Parsippany.

I hope everybody shows up to the March 18 Council meeting to remind the mayor and council that we want the debate, not the destruction of dissenting voices.

Kevin Christman
Lifelong Lake Parsippany Resident & Republican Committee Member

Parsippany Showdown: Mayor Barberio Accused of Ethics Abuse and Lawfare

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Mar 17, 2025

Justin-Musella — "I will not be silenced, and I will not be bullied." — Councilman Justin Musella stands firm against political attacks, vowing to focus on the real issues that matter to Parsippany residents.

PARSIPPANY– This Tuesday, March 18, Parsippany Town Council meeting is set to be a politically charged spectacle as Mayor Jamie Barberio and his allies move to censure his chief political opponent, Councilman Justin Musella. If successful, Musella would become the first elected official in township history to face censure—an unprecedented move many residents view as a blatant abuse of municipal power.

Parsippany has seen its share of political scandals. Yet, even former Mayor Frank Priore, convicted of a felony and sentenced to federal prison in the 1990s, was never formally censured. The push against Musella, however, comes less than 24 hours after he announced his running mates for the upcoming election, raising accusations that Barberio is using his office to target political opponents.

The justification for the censure hinges on a traffic stop from August 2023. In a video circulated by Barberio’s campaign, Musella and his wife were pulled over, during which the officer appeared to recognize them and requested identification. Musella admitted urging his wife to drive faster to catch a train but sought no special treatment. His wife ultimately received only a warning. Nevertheless, Barberio’s allies—Council members Paul Carifi, Matt McGrath, and Frank Neglia—seized on the footage, claiming that Musella’s wife presenting his council identification card constituted misconduct. This led to a rushed vote at the March 4th Council meeting to launch an ethics probe, culminating in tonight’s planned censure vote.

Public reaction has been swift and overwhelmingly critical. Many residents consider the effort an underhanded attempt to weaken Barberio’s strongest opponent in the mayoral race. Parsippany Focus has received multiple letters daily from concerned residents condemning the move and calling for the council to focus on pressing township issues—such as rising taxes, unchecked development, and town hall inefficiencies—rather than political retaliation.

A large crowd is expected at Tuesday’s meeting, set for 7:00 p.m. at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard, where residents can voice their opinions before the council votes. With tensions running high and accusations of political maneuvering dominating the conversation, all eyes will be on Parsippany’s leadership to see whether this censure is about accountability—or just another case of political lawfare.

Morris County Library Hosts “Lunch & Learn” with Prosecutor Robert Carroll and Sheriff James Gannon

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Mar 17, 2025

sheriff-gannon — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon

HANOVER – The Morris County Library invites residents to an engaging “Lunch & Learn” session featuring Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and Sheriff James M. Gannon on Friday, April 4th, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The event will focus on “The History of Law Enforcement in Morris County,” offering attendees a chance to learn about the evolution of policing and justice in the community.

The discussion will cover key historical moments, landmark cases, and the role of law enforcement in maintaining public safety over the years. Prosecutor Carroll and Sheriff Gannon bring decades of experience, providing firsthand insights into Morris County’s legal and law enforcement landscape.

The event at the Morris County Library requires advance registration, which can be completed by clicking here. Following the presentation, attendees will enjoy a light lunch as they network and discuss the topic further.

This free educational event allows community members to connect with local law enforcement leaders, ask questions, and better understand how the justice system has evolved to serve and protect residents.

The Morris County Library, located at 30 East Hanover Avenue, Whippany, serves the residents of Morris County by offering a vast collection of books, digital resources, and community programs. Their operating hours are Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; the library is closed on Sundays. For more information or to plan your visit, contact the library at (973) 285-6930 or visit their official website.

TD Bank to Close More Branches

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Mar 17, 2025

MORRIS COUNTY — As part of its ongoing efforts to streamline operations and adapt to changing customer banking habits, TD Bank has announced the closure of more than three dozen retail branches across the country, including six locations in New Jersey. The Cherry Hill-based financial institution will officially shut down the following branches on June 5:

Cedar Grove – 85 Pompton Avenue
Flemington – 1 Royal Road
Holmdel – 670 Laurel Avenue
Marlton – 191 East Route 70
Ringwood – 145 Skyline Drive
Spring Lake Heights – 555 Warren Avenue

Following these closures, TD Bank will have 216 branches remaining in New Jersey. The bank will also be shutting down branches in several other states, including Connecticut, Florida, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

Morris County TD Bank Locations

For residents of Morris County, the following TD Bank branches remain open:

Denville – 298 East Main Street
East Hanover – 300 Route 10 West
Florham Park – 177 Columbia Turnpike
Madison – 18 Main Street
Morris Plains – 324 Speedwell Avenue
Morristown – 217 South Street
Parsippany – 9 Waterview Boulevard
Randolph – 535 Route 10
Dover – 326 Mount Hope Avenue
Roxbury – 217 Route 10 East
Succasunna – 217 Route 10 East
Chatham – 425 Main Street

TD Bank’s Future Plans

One of the 10 largest banks in North America, TD Bank operates more than 1,100 retail stores in 15 states and the nation’s capital, serving over 10 million customers. In recent years, the bank has significantly reduced its footprint in the U.S., citing efforts to reinvest in remaining branches, expand ATM networks, and enhance digital and mobile banking services.

The decision to shrink its brick-and-mortar presence comes just months after federal authorities announced a $3 billion settlement with TD Bank over an investigation into alleged money laundering violations. According to the Department of Justice, TD Bank failed to monitor over $18 trillion in payments between 2016 and 2022, enabling over $600 million laundering. As part of its settlement, the bank agreed to pay hefty fines and cap its total worth at $434 million.

For more information on TD Bank’s services and branch locations, visit www.td.com.

Letter to the Editor: Time for Change: Elect Leaders Who Will Move Parsippany Forward

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Mar 17, 2025

Dear Editor:

Parsippany continues to face an old and familiar stain of embarrassment. Recently, I was with some friends who don’t live in town, and they couldn’t understand why Parsippany constantly makes headlines for the wrong reasons.

The solution is straightforward: elect Justin Musella for Mayor, and Casey Parikh and John Bielen for Town Council.

The current mayor has returned as someone else—angry, bitter, and backward-looking. We need leaders who believe our best days are ahead, have great ideas, and can make Parsippany great again.

I encourage all Republicans to work hard to elect the tickets for Musella, Bielen, and Parikh!

Dipak Naik

Unattended Death Reported on Parsippany Boulevard

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Mar 17, 2025

PARSIPPANY — Authorities are investigating an unattended death after a delivery person discovered an unresponsive man on the front lawn of a property on Parsippany Boulevard.

According to officials, the Parsippany Police Department notified the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office about the incident on Saturday, March 15. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but the individual was pronounced deceased.

While the investigation remains ongoing, authorities have stated that the death is not considered suspicious. Additional details have not been released yet.

Parsippany High School Teacher Charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child

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Mar 17, 2025

PARSIPPANY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department Chief Richard Pantina confirmed that James Wiegand, 43, of Sparta, has been charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child in connection with alleged inappropriate online conversations with a 14-year-old student.

In November 2024, an administrator at Parsippany High School notified the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office of alleged inappropriate behavior by one of the school’s teachers. Wiegand, who was employed as a teacher at the time, is alleged to have sent sexual and suggestive messages to a student using Instagram from September 2024 through November 2024.

Weigand has been subsequently suspended from his teaching position.

As a result of the investigation, Mr. Wiegand was charged on March 13, 2025, with one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a crime of the third degree, in violation of N.J.S. 2C:24-4(a)(1).

Wiegand has been released under pre-trial supervision with the following conditions: pre-trial monitoring level 2, no contact with the victim, and no unsupervised contact with minor children. He has a court date scheduled for April 21, 2025, before the Honorable Robert Hanna, J.S.C.

Members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit participated in this investigation.

Anyone with any information about this investigation is encouraged to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department at 973-263-4300.

Editors Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Agenda Highlights – March 18, 2025

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Mar 17, 2025

Council---2024 — Councilman Justin Musella, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., and Councilman Matt McGrath

PARSIPPANY – The Township Council will convene for a Regular Meeting on March 18 at 7:00 p.m. to discuss a range of ordinances, resolutions, and municipal matters.

Click here for a copy of the agenda.

Click here for a copy of the 2025 calendar.

Key Agenda Items:

Ordinances – Second Reading & Public Hearing

Ordinance 2025:01 – Adoption of the 169 Lackawanna Avenue Redevelopment Plan.
Ordinance 2025:02 – Amendments to Chapter 430, Zoning, of the township’s municipal code.

Public Session

Residents will have an opportunity to voice concerns and opinions during the open public session.

Consent Agenda Resolutions

Designation of Properties for Redevelopment:
- 2 Sylvan Way (Block 202, Lot 1/1)
- 4 Gatehall Drive (Block 175, Lot 52)
Online Auction for Surplus Property
Approval of the Length of Service Award Program Certification for 2024
Liquor License Transfer for Kura Revolving Sushi Bar
Support for Publishing Legal Notices on Government Websites
Change Orders for Various Infrastructure and Restoration Projects, including:
- Mountain Way Tank Rehabilitation
- East Hedding Place Retaining Wall Replacement
- Craftsman Farms Log House Restoration
- Clarifier Improvements Project
Execution of a Municipal Services Reimbursement Agreement with Watersedge

Ordinances – First Reading

Ordinance 2025:03 – Establishing a municipal budget cap bank for 2025.

Non-Consent Agenda Resolutions

Grant Applications:
- FY 2026 Strategic Plan for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Prevention
- Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund & NJ Historic Trust for Craftsman Farms
Contracts and Professional Service Agreements:
- Yard Waste Transportation and Disposal
- Public Relations Consulting
- Legal and Engineering Services
- Hearing Officer Appointments

Financial Approvals

Authorization of Payroll Payments for March 28, estimated at $1.65 million
Approval of Bills List totaling $2,004,231.51

Executive Session

The council will enter a closed session to discuss attorney-client privileged matters related to Affordable Housing.

The next Agenda Meeting is scheduled for April 1, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., followed by the next Regular Meeting on April 15, 2025.

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

Letter to the Editor: Mayor Barberio’s Campaign Tactics Raise Concerns of Coercion

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Mar 17, 2025

Dear Editor:

I read articles with humor about censuring Musella. James R. Barberio sent his re-election bid to personal emails and text numbers disguised as Parsippany’s future to employees.

Some employees found this to be coercion. They worried that if they didn’t attend, they would be overlooked for promotions and raises.

He is now sending personal texts and emails about another event—more coercion.

Does Parsippany want James R. Barberio to be re-elected when he claims someone else is doing wrong since he is doing wrong?

Name withheld at the request of the writer in fear of retaliation.

Letter to the Editor: Campaign in Crisis: Will Barberio Face Musella on the Debate Stage?

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Mar 17, 2025

Dear Editor:

Perhaps it’s time to lend a hand to the flailing Barberio campaign.

Swerving from last summer’s absurd and politically self-serving demand that the Board of Education be audited to the newly resurrected and thoroughly discredited allegation that Councilman Musella, almost two years ago, engaged in conduct that was illegal, it is clear that Mayor Barberio has lost his way. Rather than speaking the truth to Parsippany residents, Mr. Barberio has adopted a strategy driven by denial, deflection and deferral. As that strategy has only served to underscore the Mayor’s incompetence and incoherence, it is clear that Mayor needs to change course.

Perhaps, Councilman Musella could help Mayor Barberio find his way out of his self-inflicted political morass by offering the Mayor the opportunity to share a debate stage with him. A debate stage where Mayor Barberio could respond to the financial and safety issues that have multiplied during the past four years while he was Mayor. A debate stage where the residents of Parsippany could take the measure of the integrity, independence, accomplishments and potential of Mr. Musella and Mr. Barberio.

Bob Crawford

Letter to the Editor: Your Voice Matters: Attend the 3/18/25 Council Meeting – Censure of Justin Musella is WRONG

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Mar 17, 2025