PARSIPPANY — Central Middle School moving up ceremony 2024, filed by Video On The Go, was held on Wednesday, June 19.
Gratitude Overflowing: Class of 2024’s Project Graduation Success
PARSIPPANY — The Class of 2024’s Project Graduation extends heartfelt gratitude to all the supporters involved, including students, parents, and staff members. Their unwavering support has played a crucial role in the success of this activity. With immense appreciation, they express their thanks for the continued support provided.
The contributions received have been instrumental in offsetting expenses related to supplies, rental fees, and entertainment. Through the generosity of the supporters, the financial burden has been alleviated, allowing for a memorable and enjoyable Project Graduation experience for the Class of 2024.
Project Graduation in Parsippany stands as a testament to the collective efforts of the parents, students, and staff members and the incredible support received from the community. The Class of 2024 wholeheartedly expresses its gratitude for the continued support that has made this endeavor a resounding success.
AF Food LLC – Anthony Francos
Alan Rauchberg DMD Dental Group PA
Alison & Justin Cogan
Anthony & Sons, Denville
Applebee’s
AvidXchange, Inc.
Baldwin Bagels & Bakery
Baldwin Pizzeria Group Inc
Bedding Shoppe
Bordeaux Estates, LLC
Brooklawn Middle School PTA
Central Middle School PTA
Christine Karpack
Composition Roofers Local No. 4
Cutting Edge Landscaping of NJ LLC
Dunkin Donuts, North Beverwyck Road
Eastlake PTA
Fine Line Cabinets
Foodtown, Parsippany
Frank Neglia, Town Council Vice-President
FRWD Logistics LLC
Gripp Plumbing & Heating, LLC
Hills of Troy Neighborhood Assn
I.B.E.W. Local Union No. 102
IHOP
Intervale PTA
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany
Knollwood PTA
Foundation Inc.
Lake Hiawatha School PTA
Lake Parsippany PTA
Lenfam Management Company
Littleton PTA
Liquid Church
Matther Pierone/Gourmet Café
Mayor James Barberio
Morris Hills Veterinary Clinic
Mt. Tabor PTA
Northvail PTA
Northvail School Association, Inc
Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge No. 2078
Par-Troy Little League West
Pomptonian Food Services
Priola Funeral Service, Inc.
Rockaway Meadow PTA
S Vij Agency LLC
Saverna Operations, Inc.
ShopRite
St. Christopher R.C. Church
St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church
Target
The Michael Konner Corporation
Troy Hills School PTA
Veterans of Foreign Wars – Post 10184
Verizon Corporate Employee Match
Watnong VFW Post #3401
Weiner Law Group LLC
Weldon S. Monsport
Werner Animal Hospital
Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills
Yahaira & Glen Bradish
Letter to the Editor: Public Protests and Policy Proposals: The PILOT Saga Continues
Dear Editor:
Back in December, Parsippany held a council meeting to vote on a PILOT. The townsfolk showed up with torches and pitchforks, trying to shut down the vote—a legitimate, legal vote. They also begged the fire Marshal to shut it down (a well-thought-out counter to PILOT and a solid policy proposal for the fire Marshal).
Recently, the Mayor held a roundtable with other local mayors to explain what we face with this issue. Team Fredo was there with crayons, cardboard, and a slanderous flyer (anonymous, of course) to express their dissatisfaction with the PILOT again. It’s the same old trope.
Two days later, at the most current council meeting, the team Fredo carnival barkers were at it again. This time, seven strong. Where were the other townsfolk from December screaming with their hair on fire? We heard the repeated cons concerning PILOT, an upset resident expecting personal callbacks from all the council members, a Mimi Letts comment, and a suggestion of us embracing nature, lowering rents, and a very moving movie quote, which got a smattering of applause from the harbor seals in attendance.
That being said. Why doesn’t Fredo come out and say what he would do to stop the pilots? Put his name to it and run on that. What would he have done to prevent the massive building going on right now? Where were all these upset people with PARQ, 1515 Route 10, 202, Cherry Hill Road? They won’t affect the town and schools very soon instead of crying about 30 years from now. Where is the clown show BOE on that one? Maybe Fredo, the pied Piper of the ignorant parrots, should hold a roundtable and propose some solutions we can have him to. It won’t happen because PILOT is the best bad deal out of all the bad deals. Blame Murphy and the blue voters.
Steve Valenzano
Parsippany Permanent Lawn Watering Restrictions
PARSIPPANY — In the summer months, the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills experiences extremely high water consumption, much of which can be attributed to the inefficient and, at times, wasteful, overwatering of lawns. To conserve water, the Water Department has implemented permanent lawn water restrictions to level out weekly water usage throughout the Township per Ordinance 420-9E.
Residential Lawn Watering Schedule
From June 1 through September 30 of each year, residential lawn watering shall be permitted for property owners as follows:
- Watering of residential properties having even-numbered street addresses shall be permitted on the even-numbered days of the month.
- Watering residential properties with odd-numbered street addresses shall be permitted on the odd-numbered days of the month.
- No watering shall be permitted on any Friday or the 31st day of the month.
- Watering on the above dates shall be permitted only from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Non-Residential Lawn Watering Schedule
From June 1 through September 30 of each year, non-residential lawn watering shall be permitted for property owners as follows:
- Watering of non-residential properties shall be permitted on Mondays and Thursdays only.
- No watering shall be permitted on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday or Sunday.
- Watering on the above dates shall be permitted only from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Exemptions for New Lawns
A temporary two-week reprieve from these restrictions is available for newly installed sod or seed. Property owners shall provide notice to the Water Superintendent by phone or email.
Violations and Enforcement
The water use limitations imposed shall be enforced by authorized Water Utility officials and/or the Police Department, who are empowered to write summonses with mandatory court appearances and associated fines for violations of these water use limitations.
We appreciate your cooperation in our ongoing efforts to conserve water.
If you have any questions, please get in touch with the Water Department at (973) 263-7099
Morris County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority (MCMUA) will host four Household Hazardous Waste Disposal events in 2024. The dates and locations are as follows:
- Saturday, June 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, 500 West Hanover Avenue, Parsippany
- Saturday, September 14, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, 500 West Hanover Avenue, Parsippany
- Saturday, October 26, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, 500 West Hanover Avenue, Parsippany
Morris County residents are invited to drop off unwanted hazardous materials from their households. Please note that businesses are not permitted to participate.
Additionally, electronic devices (e-waste) will no longer be accepted at these one-day household hazardous waste events. Residents are encouraged to call 973.829.8006 for information on e-waste recycling options.
Acceptable materials include:
- Aerosol cans
- Asbestos
- Automotive fluids
- Driveway sealant and roofing tar
- Fire extinguishers
- Gasoline, kerosene, and diesel fuel
- Household cleaning products
- Lead acid batteries, button cell batteries, lithium-ion batteries, and rechargeable batteries
- Mercury-containing bulbs and devices
- Muriatic acid
- Oil-based paints, stains, lacquers, and varnishes
- Paint thinners, paint removers, and solvents
- Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers
- Photo chemicals
- Pool chemicals
- Propane tanks (20 pounds or less)
Unacceptable items include:
- Alkaline and carbon zinc batteries
- Business waste
- Compressed gas cylinders
- Containers larger than 5 gallons
- Empty containers
- Explosives
- Hazardous waste generated outside of Morris County
- Highly reactive and unstable materials
- Medical waste
- Radioactive materials
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Unknown or unlabeled materials
- Used consumer electronics
- Water-based paint and latex paint
For more information, call (973) 829-8006 or visit the MCMUA website.
Break-In at Ledgewood Designer Store Sparks Police Chase, Fiery Crash in Parsippany
PARSIPPANY — A botched store break-in that triggered an alarm led to a police chase and a fiery car crash in Parsippany on Tuesday, June 18.
The crash occurred at the Route 10 and Powder Mill Road intersection shortly after 6:00 a.m. Officials report that the chase started following a break-in at Couture Traders, Route 46, Ledgewood, at 5:24 a.m.
One of the store’s owners stated that the suspects climbed onto the roof, kicked in a window, and removed several steel bars to gain access to the building. This activated the alarm, and the suspects then fled the scene.
The chase concluded when the suspects’ car collided with a median and caught fire. Police apprehended three suspects, all of whom sustained severe injuries in the crash and were transported to Morristown Medical Center.
One suspect was caught after fleeing through the woods. The men are believed to be part of a group responsible for a recent theft on June 11 at a Ledgewood store specializing in designer purses.
The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the incident. There’s no word yet on what business was involved, how fast the suspect vehicle traveled when it crashed into the median, or the extent of the suspect’s injuries.
Team Accelerant Sales Group Wins Par-Troy West Majors Championship
PARSIPPANY — Team Accelerant Sales Group has emerged victorious in the Par-Troy West Majors Championship, capping off an incredible undefeated season in the Par-Troy West Little League. This remarkable achievement highlights the team’s dedication, skill, and teamwork throughout the season.
The team is sponsored by Accelerant Sales Group, a company known for strongly supporting youth sports in New Jersey. Accelerant Sales Group is proud of the team’s success and remains committed to backing various youth sports organizations in the state. Their sponsorship and involvement help foster a positive environment for young athletes to develop and succeed.
For more information about Accelerant Sales Group and its community support initiatives, visit www.AccelerantSales.com.
Angel’s Tails: William Schaible’s Heartfelt Journey with Darla, Mikey, and Their Unlikely Family
PARSIPPANY — Acclaimed Author William Schaible’s “Darla, Mikey, and their Angel: A True Story” appeals to animal-loving children and supports their reading journey. His book is about a small dog named Angel and her furever parents who changed her life forever.
Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other online book retailers
Along the way, Angel discovers a nest of baby cotton-tail rabbits, eventually adopting her two rabbit siblings, Darla and Mikey.
Along the way, Angel, Darla, and Mikey created great memories of fascinating oddball adventures, and a home full of young readers will have an excellent time thinking about the world and the fascinating animals around them. This heartwarming book takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, patience, love, and heartfelt genuine emotions.
Although aimed at young children, Darla, Mikey, and their Angel: A True Story will also appeal to anyone who loves animals.
It is a fun book with valuable lessons, perfect for bedtime reading. William Schaible crafts a narrative that celebrates the beauty of the unconventional. Through the book, he dares readers to embrace life’s peculiarities and find joy in the most unexpected places.
Schaible was born and raised in West Caldwell. He is an avid sports fan, animal lover, and long-time contributor to animal causes. Over the past two decades, Schaible has donated to at least 25 charities. In addition to helping animal causes, he has helped vets, police, children, and seniors.
Schaible now spends his retirement as an active emergency responder in Parsippany, where he and his wife, Connie, reside.
His book is both uplifting and unique, and it will inspire readers, large and small, to have fun and be imaginative.
“Darla, Mikey, and Their Angel: A True Story” will inspire readers. By William Schaible Kindle $4.99; Paperback $13.99; Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other online book retailers.
NWS Issues Heat Advisory: Morris County to See Highs in the 90s All Week
MORRIS COUNTY — The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for our local area until Wednesday morning, June 19.
During the Heat Advisory, heat index values are expected to reach up to 100 degrees. For the Excessive Heat Watch, dangerously hot conditions with heat index values ranging from 100 to 105 degrees are possible.
This advisory applies to portions of northern and northwest New Jersey and east central, northeast, and southeast Pennsylvania.
This week, a prolonged period of excessive heat, with high temperatures in the 90s, is expected. The heat is forecast to intensify as the week progresses, peaking late and into the weekend. These early-season heat events, combined with their prolonged nature, may increase heat-related impacts such as heat illnesses or effects on heat-sensitive infrastructure.
Everyone is encouraged to drink fluids, stay in air-conditioned rooms, avoid the sun, and check on relatives and neighbors.
Dramatic Walk-Off Home Run Ends Wifflemania XL
PARSIPPANY — Back in 1984, in a local backyard with only a couple of teams, the idea of Wifflemania was born. Since those initial backyard games, the event has grown exponentially over the past 40 years. During those years, the games have moved from that backyard to locations in Knoll Park, Manor Park, and now Smith Field. In addition, the league has expanded from those initial teams to include now two leagues, an American and a National League, comprised of 14 different teams each.
Of course, the players, whose teams are comprised of a mix of young and not-so-young teammates, come out for the fun and competitive nature of the games, but the bottom line is that Wifflemania is a charitable event. All proceeds from the lively and well-attended event go to various local charities, as they have for the past 40 years.
Wifflemania has long been passionate about Nicky “The Commish” Jannarone, whose hard work, commitment, and effort come to life every year during this highly anticipated sporting event. The outing is sponsored by the Parsippany Athletic League (PAL), Morris County Order of the Sons of Italy Lodge 2561, and local businesses and restaurants.
On Saturday, June 15th, the crowds came out, set up chairs and tents, and cheered on their favorite team, all while mingling and reconnecting with friends and neighbors. As an added treat, hot dogs, hamburgers, or Italian sausage, freshly cooked right off the grill, was readily available courtesy of the Sons of Italy. Food was free to players and fans, but a small charitable donation to the cause was also appreciated. It would not be easy to imagine a more positive, community-minded event reflective of a strong and healthy commonality than Wifflemania.
The games, which follow a “March Madness” elimination style, began at 10:00 a.m. The final championship game ended around 6:30 p.m. Fortunately, it was a weather-perfect day, with temperatures around 80 and a very mild, comfortable breeze. Nick Jannarone expertly managed to keep the games moving at a lively pace, with three teams competing continuously. Age, physical condition, and skill level may have varied significantly, but it was evident that everyone on and off the field was having a great time.
The last two teams standing at the end of the day were New ERA (National League) and Harry Ballers (American League). This was a championship rematch from 2022, and New Era was going for their 5th title (a new Wifflemania record) while Harry Ballers were seeking their 2nd championship. While games last three innings, the championship game goes for five. It ended up being an exciting rematch, and things began to look dire for New Era, as the Harry Ballers bats got hot, and they gained a 4-run lead with an inning to go. Never to give up, New Era rallied and tied the game in the bottom of the 5th, causing the game to go into extra innings. Notably, this was the first extra-inning championship game in 17 years. A dramatic walk-off home run by ERA’s team Captain, Austin DeCotiis, who was also awarded MVP, sealed the deal.
It was a great day, an exciting game, and, most importantly, a home run for charity. Congratulations to New ERA teammates Austin DeCotiis, Jeremy DeCotiis, Matt Ajaj, and Zach Doumas on their hard-won victory.
Commissioner Jannarone is already working on it, and everyone is looking forward to Wifflemania XLI.
Letter to the Editor: Upcoming Republican Primary: Will a New Leader Emerge for Parsippany?
Dear Editor:
Why won’t Mayor Barberio hold a Town Hall with Parsippany residents and provide them with an opportunity to ask him questions, express their concerns, and share their ideas?
Why won’t Mayor Barberio take the time to listen to his constituents without getting defensive and aggressively accusative towards any resident who asks him for information and/or action?
A couple of possible answers to these questions might include Mayor Barberio’s apparent lack of interest or basic understanding of the multiple safety, financial, and quality of life issues that face Parsippany residents.
Or perhaps the Mayor believes that showing up at photo ops, cutting opening banners, and handing out declarations are the Mayor’s primary responsibilities.
But then again, maybe Mayor Barberio may believe that being at the beck and call of out-of-town developers and their greedy lawyers is where the focus of his job should be
Who knows?
But what is known is that Mayor Barberio’s recent forum for Indian American Parsippany residents and this week’s Mayor’s Round Table only reinforced the growing belief that the Mayor is either too afraid or too compromised to engage in an open and frank dialogue with Parsippany residents.
With the Republican primary on the political horizon, hopefully, a candidate who is neither afraid nor compromised will emerge to lead Parsippany into the future.
Bob Crawford
Dedication and Commitment: Ashwin Vaithiyalingam’s Journey to Eagle Scout
PARSIPPANY — Ashwin Vaithiyalingam recently attained the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, an accomplishment celebrated at the Eagle Court of Honor held at All Saints Academy on Saturday, June 1. Earning the rank of Eagle Scout requires dedication and a steadfast commitment to the principles of Scouting, a testament to its difficulty, with only about 6% of Scouts achieving it. Since its inception in 1911, over two million Scouts have reached this significant milestone. He is officially Troop 72’s 103rd Eagle Scout!
“Many people wonder whether years of scouting are worth it—freezing camping nights and dozens of eagle-required merit badges. My answer is always “yes,” said Ashwin.
The presentation of the Eagle Scout badge is an important event. It is the goal for which a Scout has worked for many years, an occasion for pride and joy, a time for serious contemplation, and the culmination of the Scout’s efforts and leadership. The Eagle Scout Award is the highest and most coveted rank in Scouting, the last major step in the advancement program. Fewer than six percent of all Scouts in the United States reach the Eagle Scout rank.
The requirements for Eagle are:
•Be active in your troop and patrol for at least six months as a Life Scout.
•Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath and Law daily.
•Earn 21 merit badges, including the 14 that are required: First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in Society, Citizenship in the World, Communications, Personal Fitness, Emergency Preparedness, Environmental Science, Personal Management, Swimming, Camping, and Family Life.
•Serve actively in an approved position of responsibility for six months after becoming a Life Scout.
•Plan, develop, and lead others in carrying out a service project worthy of an Eagle
Scout.
•Take part in a Scoutmaster conference.
•Appear before a board of review of prominent persons and satisfy them that the Scout has done their best to understand and live up to the Scout Oath and Law and, in all ways, qualify for the Eagle Scout Award.
Ashwin’s Trail to Eagle
Scout June 6, 2018
Tenderfoot March 27, 2019
Second Class October 23, 2019
First Class June 10, 2020
Star Scout March 15, 2022
Life Scout February 16, 2023
Eagle Scout December 29, 2023
Ashwin Achieves Notable Milestone with 33 Merit Badges Earned: Archery, Chess, Camping, Art, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in Society, Citizenship in the World, Climbing, Communications, Cooking, Electricity, Emergency Preparedness, Environmental Science, Family Life, Fingerprinting, First Aid, Geology, Kayaking, Law, Leatherwork, Metalwork, Mammal Study, Nature, Personal Fitness, Personal Management, Plant Science, Public Health, Railroading, Rowing, Scholarship, Swimming, and Wood Carving.
Ashwin’s Eagle Project involved planning, coordination, and much effort from the initial concept to the final installation. Ashwin demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and successfully rallied a team of volunteers to bring his vision to life. The garden has various elements, including pollinator plants to attract bees and butterflies, perennial plants, murals, pathways, and other elements. From a tranquil reading area to an outdoor learning space, this garden showcases Ashwin’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Ashwin said, “When I first joined Troop 72, I was nervous. I wouldn’t say I liked the idea of wearing a uniform and sleeping outside, and I, most importantly, hated the idea of interacting with bugs. I remember my first summer camping trip. My mom was super nervous about sending me away to the woods, and I was scared of being near bugs. Yet, Mr. Sonzogni promised my parents that Boy Scout summer camp is the perfect opportunity to learn and grow as a student, citizen, and scout. With Mr. Sonzognis’s encouragement, my parents confidently sent me to camp. Once I reached camp, I didn’t know what to expect. The green tents filled with slugs and spiders were scary, but I slowly got used to it. I began enjoying summer camp. When I started completing merit badges, swimming in the lake, and spending days in the sun.”
Mr. Sonzogni recognized Ashwin’s leadership in scouting. He recommended the National Youth Leadership Training Camp, where Ashwin pushed himself further by working with a diverse group of scouts to camp and develop personal skills. After completing the course, Ashwin was offered a position to teach the next year to scouts. Ashwin immersed himself in the monthly development meetings. He enhanced his ability to lead others and meet new faces.
Ashwin was student government president, campaigning every year and serving four years at the Morris County School of Technology. He will graduate in June and pursue higher education at Emory University in the fall.
Ashwin Vaithiyalingam possesses top skills in film editing, administration, project management, and cinematography.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, July 2024.
Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter Acknowledged for Hands-On Student Experience Initiative
PARSIPPANY — Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter was honored at the annual breakfast of Parsippany-Troy Hills School District.
The shelter proudly supports the district’s incredible Work-Based Learning program, which provides students with invaluable hands-on experience and skills. The shelter extends a big thank you to the district for recognizing this important partnership and looks forward to continuing to nurture the next generation of compassionate, skilled professionals.
Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter is at 194 Route 10 West, East Hanover. Their mission is to provide exceptional care for homeless animals, promote adoption, and support pet owners in the community. The shelter is dedicated to ensuring the well-being of all animals, finding loving homes for those in need, and educating the public about responsible pet ownership.
For more information, click here.
John Georges Honored for 50 Years of Commitment to Parsippany Township
PARSIPPANY — During the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township meeting on Tuesday, June 11, Mayor James Barberio presented Parsippany Township employee John Georges with a plaque commemorating his astounding 50 years of service at Town Hall.
John, who began his tenure with the township on June 18, 1974, is often regarded as the unofficial Deputy Mayor of the Municipal Building and knows everyone by name. In addition to his role in the mailroom, John helps new employees acclimate by introducing them to everyone with a short story or anecdote.
“I’m so proud to be able to honor John tonight,” said Mayor Barberio. “What an amazing accomplishment this is! John has always provided me with interesting insights and advice. He always greets everyone with a smile and has truly impacted the community. Thank you for all that you do!”
Morris County Strengthens Veterans Support with Expanded Services
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County recently welcomed veterans and service providers at the Morris County Veterans Services Office for a meeting hosted by the New Jersey SOS Veterans Stakeholders Group. The event aimed to foster networking and better understand veterans’ support needs across the region.
The meeting saw over 60 participants, including representatives from the offices of U.S. Rep. Tom Kean, U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, and the N.J. State Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Organizations such as Catholic Charities Diocese of Paterson, Veterans Affairs Healthcare, Welcome Home Vets of NJ, Morris Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill Industries of Greater New York & Northern New Jersey, Inc., and the Mental Health Association of NJ were also present.
“Supporting our veterans is crucial to honor their sacrifices and ensure their well-being,” said Commissioner John Krickus, a Marine Corps veteran. “While holidays often spotlight their service, we want our veterans to know that Morris County is here throughout the year providing essential services for their transition to civilian life, whether it be access to healthcare, employment opportunities, training, or mental health support.”
Christine Hellyer, Director of the Office of Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming, and Jessica Tomalo, Program Coordinator for the Morris County Office of Veterans Services, updated county veterans services. In the past two years, Morris County has expanded its Veterans Services Office to include a fourth full-time Veterans Services Officer position, which is currently being recruited, and a seasonal intern who recently joined and participated in the event.
“In 2022, Morris County allocated $350,000 to veteran services, and last year contributed an additional $300,000 to address the growing demand for mental health, shelter placement, transportation services, meal assistance, counseling, legal services, and other veteran services currently being provided by the Morris County Human Services Department,” Krickus said.
A new federal Veteran Center Community Access Point (CAP) opened in May at the Morris County VSO at 540 West Hanover Avenue in Morris Township. Morris County volunteered to share and improve its county VSO space to host the VA CAP.
Two VA counselors from the federal Bloomfield Vet Center are available to provide services every Thursday by appointment. Veterans interested in these services should call the Bloomfield Vet Center at (973) 748-0980 to schedule an appointment.
Additionally, a veterans appreciation event is being planned for later this summer at a park in Morris County. Sign up for the Morris County weekly email newsletter for updates about this and other veteran events throughout the county.
Community Backs Theo with Inspiring ‘Fight Like a Bear’ Pasta Dinner Event
PARSIPPANY — Theo is a 3-year-old Parsippany boy diagnosed in March 2024 with an Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumor, which is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that is most commonly found in children under the age of three.
Theo, lovingly referred to as Theo Bear, is an energetic, playful, and loving little boy. He has been incredibly strong and brave through two craniotomies (brain surgeries) and two rounds of intensive chemotherapy thus far, with three more to come over the next three months.
Theo has been treated by a wonderful team of medical professionals from Morristown Memorial Hospital, The Valerie Fund of Morristown Memorial, and Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone in Manhattan.
“The Nieglos family is extremely thankful for and appreciates the enormous generosity of the Blue Collar Worker’s Union of Parsippany, the Sons of Italy, and all of their family, friends, and acquaintances who have offered their support during this difficult time,” said Jenn Nieglos.
“When I got the news of Theo and his family, I knew I could count on my union members to make a difference. I didn’t know it would be this incredible. I want to thank everyone who volunteered their time, donated to the cause, and came to attend the event. I would also like to thank all the businesses in town who donated. A big thank you to my wife, Allison, who stepped up and worked alongside John Pirnie, his wife Dana, and Mike Smith to collect almost 90 baskets in a week and a half. And a special thank you to the Sons of Italy for providing the meal. It is moments like these that I am proud to be President of the Parsippany Blue Collar Workers Union. We worked hard to keep the Pride in Parsippany. Stay strong, Theo-Bear,” said Patrick Campbell.
The Sons of Italy are honored to support Theo Bear and his incredible family during this difficult time. Our community’s strength lies in our unity, and we are committed to doing everything we can to help. Together, we can make a difference and show that Parsippany stands strong with Theo,” said Joe Jannarone, Jr., President of Sons of Italy.
“I was one of the union members in charge of the fundraiser. I want to thank residents and local businesses for their support, and a huge thanks to my wife, Dana Pirnie, and Pat Campbell’s wife, Allison Campbell, for all of their hard work and effort in running the fundraiser,” said John Pirnie.
Click here to donate to Theo Bear.
A heartfelt gratitude to all the union members and their families who generously volunteered their time to ensure the success of this event. A special thank you goes to the Order Sons of Italy in America – Lodge 2561 for their incredible support in cooking and providing delicious food!
A special thanks to the following for stepping up to make this event a success.
•Par-Troy Little League East for sponsoring the 50/50.
•Eccola Italian Bistro for providing all the beverages.
•Red Barn Restaurant – Towaco and The Bread Gal Bakery for providing all the rolls and salad.
•Ferraro’s Italian Food Specialties, Jefry’s Pizzería, Baldwin Pizza, Valentino’s Pizzeria, and •Bruno’s Italian Bistro for providing food for the event.
•Pj Thurkauf from the UPS store for all the flyers and posters
•Landmark Floral for donating roses.
•Councilman Frank Neglia and Sandra Neglia, thank you for providing desserts and coffee.
•Mayor James Barberio for his support and his donations.
Theo, as you fight like a bear, we are all here by your side. An entire community is standing behind you, praying and fighting with you!!!! We ask that everyone keep the Nieglos family in their thoughts and prayers.
Parsippany Blue Collar Workers thank everyone from the bottom of their hearts who contributed to this amazing event. This is what Parsippany is all about. It is amazing how a community can work together for a worthy cause.
Stay strong, little man!!
Letter to the Editor: East Hanover’s Approach to Business Redevelopment Sparks Debate at Roundtable
Dear Editor:
My wife and I attended the Mayor’s Roundtable at the Sheraton in Parsippany. We have been following the controversial issue of the so-called Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program to redevelop the many empty office buildings in Parsippany.
We hoped to gain new insights from a moderated discussion among mayors of four nearby towns facing similar problems. What we got instead of an open discussion with an informed and neutral moderator was a pep rally led by a cheerleader, unanimous in their opinion that affordable, fair housing was an abomination led by horrible politicians in Trenton.
The mayors shared their tactics for fighting against court rulings meant to assure all New Jerseyans access to affordable housing in towns with good-paying jobs, but not one described their plan to provide good housing. One of them even likened his town to a business and low-income families as customers who would be money-losers for the town.
There was one surprising moment when the mayor of East Hanover said that his town never used a PILOT to redevelop business properties, as he found that businesses were willing to invest in his town without the extra tax break provided by the PILOT program. Parsippany’s Mayor Barberio has said that East Hanover would win the competition for business investment with Parsippany if we didn’t offer them a PILOT.
As promised, Monday night’s “roundtable” was not engaging or insightful. We learned that several local mayors were self-satisfied politicians devoted to keeping low-income people out of their towns and not interested in hearing the audience’s questions or opinions.
Mark Philhower and Gay Boyle
Letter to the Editor: Mayor’s Round Table or Barberbio Bail Out?
Dear Editor:
Parsippany Mayor’s most recent was an absolute farce and a waste of township time and money. By now, one should be surprised that Barberio is desperate to undo the 30-year damage he has caused the town and the schools after he and his attorney, Mr. John Inglesino, rammed through his Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) programs on December 28th.
The Mayor advertised that he was addressing PILOTs at the meeting with his out-of-town guests, who did not share his enthusiasm for PILOTs. Even one of the Mayor from East Hanover said that he did not do them, and another from Hanover said he put a split for the Board of Education.
But, very little about PILOTs was even addressed by Barberio’s out-of-town buddies. And rightly so, because almost none of the Mayors had much positive to say about them. And if that is not enough, Barberio has a slew of municipal employees sit in the audience of this event to project vast “support” for his bad policies and programs. Who is paying for all the employees’ time outside of work hours? How much did we spend on the Sheraton Ballroom to promote him and gubernatorial candidate Bill Spadea? How much comp time does the township have for these employees? Barberio seems to have a penchant for wasting people’s time and taxpayers’ money with John Inglesino playing the Wizard of Oz behind the curtain–who, by the way, had a controversial warehouse application being held at the planning board at the same time as this roundtable. Coincidence or intentional?
Bridget Cazzetto
Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting Scheduled for June 11
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council has scheduled a meeting for Tuesday, June 11, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will occur in the Council Chambers at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard within the Parsippany Municipal Building.
Formal action may or may not be taken.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for the meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request an auxiliary aid.
Click here to download the agenda.
Click here for the 2024 calendar.
Mayor James Barberio
Council President Paul Carifi, Jr.
Council Vice President Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella
Councilman Matt McGrath
Councilwoman Judy Hernandez
Evagelia Zois Named to the Spring 2024 Provost’s List at Hofstra University
PARSIPPANY — Evagelia Zois achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA during the spring 2024 semester, earning a spot on the Provost’s List at Hofstra University. Evagelia Zois attended Parsippany Hills High School, graduating in 2020.
Evagelia Zois had an active and distinguished high school career at Parsippany Hills High School. She held leadership positions and was involved in several honors and service organizations:
- President of the French Honors Society
- President of the E.R.A.S.E Club (End Racism and Sexism Everywhere)
- Vice President of Student Advocates for Change
- Member of the National Honors Society
These roles reflect her commitment to academic excellence and community service.
Her major at Hofstra is Video/TV And Business.
Hofstra University’s primary mission is to provide a quality education to its students in an environment that encourages, nurtures, and supports learning. At Hofstra, new ideas take shape through collaboration, engagement, and interaction. Hofstra students create their success with small classes and dedicated faculty alongside a beautiful campus, plus all the opportunities of New York City within easy reach.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, July 2024.