PARSIPPANY — Despite steady rain and overcast skies, hundreds of Parsippany residents gathered Sunday at Veterans Park for a community event that combined free food, neighborly conversation, and grassroots energy.

The event, held under pop-up tents and umbrellas, drew a diverse crowd of families, seniors, and young professionals who braved the weather to connect. Throughout the afternoon, attendees were treated to complimentary sandwiches and drinks, creating a welcoming, festival-like atmosphere despite the soggy conditions.

Parsippany Councilman Justin Musella, currently running for the Republican nomination for mayor, was on hand from start to finish, helping coordinate the event and speaking directly with residents. Musella walked the park, checking in with volunteers and engaging in one-on-one conversations with attendees.

“This is what Parsippany is all about—people showing up for each other, no matter the weather,” said one volunteer. “It’s great to see a leader out here with us, not just stopping by but staying involved.” Dennis Letts said, “In all my years in Parsippany, there has never been a clearer choice about who’s more qualified to lead us going forward. Justin Musella has all the qualities of a good leader, and he’s my choice!”

Musella’s visible and consistent presence throughout the event drew praise from attendees who said they appreciated speaking with an elected official in an informal setting.“He wasn’t just here for a photo,” said one resident. “He stayed, talked to people, and helped ensure everything ran smoothly.”

“What a delightful picnic we attended yesterday at Parsippany’s Veterans Memorial Park. The weather was wet, but the crowd was warm, cheerful, and welcoming. It was so good seeing old friends and meeting new ones. Justin Musella and his running mates, Casey Parikh and John Bielen, were terrific, and their words were inspiring as they spoke of their aims for Parsippany’s future. I was happy to attend,” said Hank Heller.

Parsippany resident Timothy Berrios stated, “Over 125 people showed up in the rain—united, fired up, and ready for change. You can feel the momentum with Justin, John, and Casey leading the way. Rain or shine, we’re not backing down.”

Republican council candidates Casey Parikh and John Bielen were also in attendance. They joined Musella in meeting with residents and supporting the day’s efforts. Both candidates emphasized the importance of community connection and grassroots engagement as central to their campaigns.

Volunteers kept tables stocked with food and drink while guests mingled under tents, trading stories and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. Despite the rain, the mood was upbeat and marked by a strong sense of community.

As the skies cleared in the late afternoon, many residents lingered, finishing conversations and grabbing second helpings. “This is what leadership looks like—being present and engaged,” another attendee said. “You don’t see that enough.”

The event ended on a high note, with a sense of shared purpose and resilience among attendees.

Dear Editor:

I’ve lived in Parsippany for most of my life. My children were raised here, and I hope my grandchildren will one day be able to grow up in the same community I’ve loved for decades. But love alone isn’t enough; we need real change, so I’m speaking up to support Justin Musella for Mayor.

For too long, I stayed silent. I’ve watched as lies, political intimidation, and ugly rhetoric have been used to smear anyone who dares to support someone outside the current political machine. But I can’t stand by any longer. Parsippany deserves leadership rooted in integrity, vision, and transparency, not recycled politics and empty promises.

Several years ago, I had a disturbing encounter with Mayor James Barberio that still sits with me. While at the Home Depot in Parsippany with a friend, Mr. Barberio began a conversation that quickly crossed the line. Knowing I had a connection to the person he spoke about, he began revealing extremely personal and confidential details about a township employee discussing their medical condition, legal battles, and even their family. Worse, he did so with crude and unnecessary commentary, referring to the person as a “drug addict” and speculating about their children’s future in a similarly offensive manner.

Leadership is about discretion and compassion, not gossip and cruelty. That moment showed me the kind of judgment that has no place in public office. Unfortunately, that kind of behavior is part of a larger pattern. Just recently, Mayor Barberio conveniently announced two long-delayed initiatives, both timed suspiciously close to the June 10th primary.

After years of delay, he claims to have struck a deal to purchase excess property from St. Christopher’s Church using the open space trust fund, an agreement that conveniently comes just weeks before voters head to the polls. Similarly, after years of contentious back-and-forth with the Board of Education, he has just now proposed a plan to address the burden on our schools from new housing developments. The details are still confidential. The resolution is not expected until after the primary on July 24th. The timing speaks volumes.

Parsippany doesn’t need last-minute political stunts. We need bold, honest, forward-thinking leadership and that’s exactly what Justin Musella brings to the table. He’s young, energetic, and most importantly, he’s committed to transparency, ethical governance, and real community engagement.

With the primary just days away, I urge my fellow residents: don’t fall for the noise. Do your research. Meet the candidates. Ask questions that matter. Let’s put Parsippany back on track and bring back the hometown pride we all remember. That change starts with Justin Musella.

Name Withheld
The name was withheld at the individual’s request. The publisher knows the individual’s identity, but it has been withheld out of concern for potential retaliation.

Dear Editor:

As we approach the Republican Primary on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, the future of our town hangs in the balance. Justin Musella for Mayor, John Bielen and Casey Parikh for Town Council, offer us a fresh start — one grounded in hope, integrity, and progress, not in the divisive politics and backroom deals that have defined the last four years.

When I moved to Parsippany in 1990, this town was full of promise. But in recent years, I’ve seen us veer off course. Overdevelopment, overcrowded schools, and the never-ending roadwork on North Beverwyck Road in Lake Hiawatha have eroded our quality of life.

Meanwhile, behind closed doors, political insiders have cut sweetheart deals — including residential PILOT agreements — that benefit developers but shortchange our children and our schools.

Even more troubling is the toxic political climate we’ve endured: personal attacks on those who speak out, efforts to silence dissent, and a leadership culture rooted in division. This kind of politics doesn’t move us forward — it tears us apart.

But I believe we can turn the page. I think we can do better.

Justin Musella represents a new vision for Parsippany — one that puts residents first. He’s shown the courage to challenge entrenched interests and the commitment to govern fairly and transparently. As a father raising his family here, Justin knows what’s at stake. He’s focused on responsible development, strong schools, and restoring Parsippany as a place where families, businesses, and communities can thrive.

I also proudly support John Bielen and Casey Parikh for Town Council:

• John Bielen has been a tireless advocate for Parsippany’s families. As a leader in youth sports — from the Little Vikings Football League to PAL wrestling and Par-Troy East baseball — John invested years in mentoring our kids and building a stronger community. He leads with empathy, listens with respect, and understands that authentic leadership means putting people before politics. He’ll bring a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach to Town Hall.
• Casey Parikh has over 20 years of experience in town planning and zoning. As a longtime Planning Board chairman, Casey knows how to balance growth with community needs. His deep understanding of infrastructure, budgeting, and responsible development will ensure that future projects are sustainable, innovative, and in line with our town’s long-term interests — not just the short-term profits of developers.

The politics of destruction have done enough damage to our community. On June 10, we can reject the old ways and embrace a brighter, more unified future.

Let’s stand together. Let’s vote for hope, honesty, and genuine leadership.

Timothy P. Berrios
Parsippany Resident since 1990

MORRIS COUNTY — For over 25 years, Roots & Wings has remained one of the few organizations in New Jersey exclusively focused on empowering youth aging out of the foster care system. What began as a grassroots, volunteer-led effort by founder Irene DeGrandpre—who once welcomed foster youth into her own home—has evolved into a full-scale nonprofit built on compassion, community, and the unwavering belief that every young adult deserves a strong start in life.

The mission of Roots & Wings is clear: to provide safe housing, emotional support, life skills, and educational opportunities to young people aging out of foster care. Many of these youth face overwhelming odds: higher risks of homelessness, food insecurity, unemployment, and lack of family support. Roots & Wings offers an essential safety net that helps these individuals move from instability to independence.

The organization’s comprehensive program includes stable housing, case management, vocational and academic planning, life skills workshops, and community engagement. Roots & Wings covers 100% of its members’ rent and utilities during their participation, allowing them to focus on growth and future goals without the burden of basic survival.

In 2024 alone, the organization served 20 former foster youth. Among them:

• Four members graduated and are now employed and living independently.
• Five members are pursuing degrees in 2- and 4-year college programs—three on track to graduate in 2025.
• Other members are training in high-demand fields, including certified nursing assistant, home health aide, medical assistant, radiography, and patient services.

Since 2017, the Roots & Wings home in Parsippany has been a vital part of this journey, housing up to three program members at a time. With its proximity to schools, employers, and transportation, Parsippany offers critical access to opportunity. Currently, three young women are making strides at the Parsippany location:

• One will graduate this year with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology.
• Another is working toward her Patient Care Technician certification.
• The newest resident is pursuing her GED, building a foundation for future academic success.

One remarkable success story is that of C.S., a program member based in Parsippany who was recently honored at the Roots & Wings Rise & Fly Gala. In just over a year, C.S. has earned her SORA certification, enabling her to work as a security guard while continuing her studies. She is on track to graduate this December with a degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology.

“They make me want to change,” said C.S. “I already wanted to, but because they know that I can do it and they expect that from me, they made me see things that I didn’t see.”

Roots & Wings isn’t just a program—it’s a transformative community. And in towns like Parsippany, where access meets opportunity, it is helping young adults rewrite their futures, one milestone at a time. Please visit their site here.

PARSIPPANY — In an effort to address high water consumption during the summer months, the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills has implemented permanent lawn watering restrictions, effective June 1 through September 30 each year, as outlined in Township Ordinance 420-9E.

Under the new rules:

• Residential properties with even-numbered street addresses may water lawns on even-numbered days of the month.
• Those with odd-numbered addresses may water on odd-numbered days.
• No watering is allowed on Fridays or the 31st of any month.
• Permitted watering hours are 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

For non-residential properties, watering is only allowed on Mondays and Thursdays during the same time windows, and it is prohibited on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

A two-week exemption is available for newly planted lawns. Authorized Water Utility officials and Parsippany Police will enforce the exemption, and violations are subject to summonses and court appearances.

For further information, contact the Parsippany Water Department at (973) 263-7099.

PARSIPPANY—The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills honored the memory of America’s fallen service members during a solemn and respectful Memorial Day Ceremony, which included community leaders, veterans, and residents.

The ceremony began with the Presentation of Colors by the Color Guard of American Legion Post 249 and VFW Command Post 10184, followed by an Invocation offered by Rabbi Shalom Lubin of Shaya Ahavat Torah. The mood was set with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem, performed by Parsippany resident Michelle Musolino.

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Parsippany Girl Scouts, representing various local troops. Kara Meyn of Troop #98272 shared a heartfelt Memorial Day poem, reflecting on the sacrifices of those who gave their lives in service.

Mayor James R. Barberio welcomed attendees with opening remarks, followed by Alexandra Cerasiello, Congressional Aide to Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, who spoke on behalf of the Congresswoman and offered words of tribute.

Members of VFW Post 10184 participated in the Laying of the Wreaths, honoring the memory of fallen soldiers. The sounding of Taps, performed by Dominick Caponegro, a Parsippany resident, brought a moment of reflection to all in attendance.

Siobhan Fuller McConnell, a Gold Star Mother and the mother of Derek McConnell, a Parsippany war hero, delivered the Keynote Address. Her powerful words reminded us of the personal cost of service and the enduring legacy of the fallen.

Michael J. dePierro, a Vietnam Veteran and former Parsippany Councilman, presented “Just a Common Soldier,” a poignant tribute to the everyday men and women who serve in uniform. The program continued with Hallie Stringham, a Parsippany Hills High School student, performing a beautiful rendition of “America the Beautiful.”

The event concluded with a Benediction from Rev. Donald Bragg of Parsippany Presbyterian Church and the Retirement of Colors, once again carried out by the Color Guard.

The ceremony united the Parsippany community in remembrance, offering a moment of gratitude and reverence for the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Dear Editor:

Well, well, well, don’t say I didn’t warn you about Mr. Jigar Shah, at the beginning of this republican race for Mayor of Parsippany. I was undecided whether to back Jamie Barberio or Justin Musella. But when Barberio daringly chose Shah, a man with an admitted very recent past of Ballot Tampering as his running mate, the question was answered, and I decided Justin Musella for Mayor.

Referencing the newly published information submitted by Nitaben Patel revealing Shah’s pretty significant financial problems, which ended up in court, I know I made the right decision because how can we have someone in city hall who can’t keep his books straight and pay his bills on time?

On top of that, both Mr. Shah and Neglia refused to join in the recent Live Debate, leaving Mr.Barberio all alone to squirm and wiggle trying to find information in his stack of paperwork (probably prepared by John Inglesino) which could help him answer the questions he was asked. Both Casey Parikh and John Bielen said they would be happy to join the debate before Neglia and Shah said “No.”

Several of my Indian Friends have told me that Shah put up signs on their property without even asking them. That’s what I call autonomous decision making!

I still believe Justin Musella will be our Voice at Town Hall.

That is why I will be proudly casting my ballot for Musella, Parikh and Bielen.

Life Long Republican
Barbara  Mathews

Dear Editor:

Anyone who watched the Musella-Barberio Zoom debate will see who should become Parsippany’s mayor. Justin Musella was focused and skillful in his answers to the questions, whereas Barberio was haphazard, fidgety, and seldom looked at his “audience.”

It was a clash of two personalities. Musella looked and acted like a mayor, whereas Barberio looked like a nervous amateur. His answers were rambling. He called out Mr. Musella on a couple of occasions and constantly appeared on the defensive. It was like watching Joe Biden fumble his way through a debate.

Image, as well as knowledge, is vital to success in any walk of life, and Justin Musella simply looked like a man in charge. And let’s not forget that Barberio attempted to derail Mr. Musella’s campaign by the censure debacle—another sign of Barberio’s insecurity. I urge all Parsippany residents to realize it’s not only a time for a change but also a time for a change of mayoral image.

My encounters with Barberio over the years have ALL been less than professional and often resulted in no return calls or assistance with my concerns. Mr. Musella has been more than generous with his time and replies to my every contact with him. Please take heed and bring a fresh approach to Parsippany. Justin Musella has plenty of experience as a councilman and already has an aggressive plan to enact in bringing pride back to Parsippany. Barberio has squashed that pride with his self-serving, do-nothing manner.

Thank you.

Don Faruolo
Parsippany resident for over 20 years.

Dear Editor:

As election season heats up, voters are being asked to blindly hand over the town’s future to individuals whose judgment and ethics crumble under even the slightest scrutiny. Jigar Shah, Barberio’s handpicked “Indian liaison” and now a town council candidate, paints himself in campaign materials as a “successful businessman” with “40 years of experience managing million-dollar budgets.” But peel back the glossy campaign slogans, and you find a deeply troubling record that raises serious red flags about the kind of person being pushed onto the ballot.

In 2012, a New Jersey Superior Court case (Margaret Nordstrom v. William (Hank) Lyon) referenced Jigar Shah concerning improper handling of mail-in ballots. While Shah could not remember his involvement in collecting mail in ballots, it certainly raised eyebrows about his respect for the electoral process a foundation of our democracy.

But perhaps more troubling is Shah’s financial history. A candidate claiming financial expertise should demonstrate a track record of fiscal responsibility. Yet Shah’s background is marked by a long list of liens, judgments, and debt-related legal actions. Here are just seven examples, pulled from public court records:

1. Discover Bank v. Jigar Shah – $6,074.61 (Essex County, 2001, DC-007479-01)
2. G5 Consultants v. Jigar Shah – $158,714.38 (Morris County, 2001, L-000209-01)
3. Norwest Mortgage Inc. v. Jigar Shah – $133,100.00 (Morris County, 1999, F-20308-99)
4. The Valley Hospital v. Jigar Shah – $1,426.00 (Morris County, 1990, DC-248608-90)
5. Montclair Radiological Associates – $979.00 (Morris County, 1993, DC-008623-93)
6. Dorf International v. Jigar Shah – $3,403.00 (Essex County, 1994, DC-017374-94)
7. Mountainside Hospital v. Jigar Shah – $722.00 (Morris County, 1992, DC-008415-92)

These cases span over a decade and suggest a repeated pattern of financial mismanagement, not isolated missteps. This is deeply concerning for someone seeking a role in overseeing local budgets and taxpayer money.

This list isn’t exhaustive. Additional liens and judgments exist, further eroding Team Barberio’s narrative of “business success.”

Residents deserve leaders with a proven commitment to fiscal integrity and ethical behavior, not individuals with histories of debt disputes and questionable campaign conduct. My own family once supported James Barberio, but the inclusion of Jigar Shah on his slate has given us serious pause. This isn’t partisan politics; it’s about trust, judgment, and accountability.

Before casting your vote, ask yourself: Is this the kind of leadership our town deserves?

Nitaben Patel
Parsippany Registered Voter