PARSIPPANY — The highly anticipated mayoral debate at the Puddingstone Heights Clubhouse, initially scheduled for Tuesday, May 21, has been officially postponed.

The event, which was intended to provide Parsippany residents with a chance to hear directly from the candidates ahead of the June primary, will be rescheduled to a later date. Organizers are actively working to coordinate a new date and remain hopeful that the debate can still occur before the primary. If that is not possible, the discussion will be held afterward to ensure the community has the opportunity to hear from all sides.

The postponement comes amid scheduling conflicts that affected the participation of one or more candidates. The debate was expected to cover key local issues and allow voters to understand better the platforms and visions of those seeking the mayor’s office.

In the meantime, a separate Republican mayoral debate is scheduled to occur virtually on Thursday, May 15, at 7:00 p.m. The League of Women Voters, the Daily Record, and the Morristown Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. will host the forum via Zoom.

This virtual debate will feature incumbent Mayor Jamie Barberio and Councilman Justin Musella. It will be livestreamed and later available on the League’s official YouTube channel and Parsippany Focus. Residents who wish to submit questions for the candidates must do so by 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13, by clicking here.

In the upcoming Republican Primary, Incumbent Mayor James Barberio will face off with Councilman Justin Musella in what is expected to be a closely watched race.

Further information will be announced as it becomes available. Residents are encouraged to stay tuned for updates regarding the rescheduled debate.

PARSIPPANY—The Township Council of Parsippany-Troy Hills will hold its Agenda Meeting tonight, Tuesday, May 6, at 7:00 p.m. at the Municipal Building.

Click here to download the agenda.

The meeting will cover various topics, including infrastructure projects, zoning amendments, and final readings for several ordinances. Among the key items on the agenda:

• A $5.2 million bond ordinance for the construction of a treatment facility for Public Well 20-R
• Amendments to sewer regulations and acquisition of sanitary sewer easements
• A zoning ordinance update
• Introduction of a new $3.57 million bond ordinance for 2025 capital improvements

The Council will also consider adopting the 2025 municipal budget and voting on several resolutions involving roadwork, water system upgrades, and contract change orders. The budget will be voted at the next meeting.

The agenda also includes a proposed liquor license transfer and routine approvals for payroll and bills totaling more than $4.2 million.

The public is invited to attend and participate during the public session portion of the meeting.

The next regular Township Council meeting will occur on Tuesday, May 20, at 7:00 p.m.

PARSIPPANY — It is imperative that we address recent misinformation published by TapIntoParsippany in a letter written by Jes Becker, identified as the Puddingstone Liaison of the Puddingstone Community Club (PCC). Her letter was a direct response to our April 23 article, “Puddingstone Community Club to Host Mayoral Debate: Musella Set to Attend, Barberio Remains Unresponsive.” (Click here to read the article). Click here to read Ms. Becker’s Letter to the Editor in TapIntoParsippany.

Let us be absolutely clear: Parsippany Focus stands by the reporting in that article. It was written by Publisher Frank Cahill, who has covered Parsippany with integrity and independence for over 36 years. The article accurately reflected the information provided by PCC leadership at the time of publication.

In a written statement to Parsippany residents, John Ihne, President of the Puddingstone Community Club, confirmed that Parsippany Focus acted appropriately. “We want to be clear: Parsippany Focus reported accurately based on the facts and communication provided at the time of publication,” Ihne wrote. “Any confusion stems not from journalistic error, but from a lack of complete context on our part.” (Click here to read Mr. Ihne’s letter to the editor).

Mr. Cahill responded: “I’ve been a journalist for 36 years. My integrity is not for sale. I do not—nor have I ever—endorsed or worked for any political campaign. My sole obligation is to our readers. That obligation is serious and unwavering. I stood against the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills administration during a 2014 lawsuit and won—not just for myself, but for press freedom in the entire State of New Jersey. I was honored in 2015 by TAPinto’s founder, Mike Shapiro, and the New Jersey Society of Professional Journalists. My record speaks for itself.” (Click here to read an article from the Star-Ledger, Sep. 26, 2014)

Parsippany Focus follows a strict policy for Letters to the Editor:

• All letters must include the writer’s full name, address, and phone number.
• We verify every submission.
• Anonymous letters are not accepted.
• In rare, justified cases—typically involving local government or law enforcement personnel at risk of retaliation, we will publish the letter anonymously. In every such case, the author’s identity is known to us.

Contrary to insinuations, Parsippany Focus has never published a falsified or unverifiable submission.

Also of note: Ms. Becker chose not to submit her letter to Parsippany Focus directly, instead opting to send it exclusively to TapIntoParsippany. Readers deserve to know that the owner of TapIntoParsippany, Laura Ali, is also the Chairwoman of the Morris County Republican Committee and heads the GOP Chairs of all 21 counties.

Further, when PCC President John Ihne sent his clarifying letter to Parsippany Focus, a copy was sent to Ms. Ali on Monday, May 5 at 9:50 a.m. Mr. Cahill, in a gesture of transparency, also forwarded the letter to Ms. Ali at 10:21 a.m., making clear that it was offered in good faith and represented a mutual clarification.

We will not allow facts to be distorted. We will not allow Parsippany Focus to be used as a pawn in anyone’s political agenda. We serve our readers—and only our readers. That principle has guided our newsroom for decades and will continue to do so, no matter who attempts to challenge it.

– Parsippany Focus Editorial Team

Dear Editor:

A recent letter to the editor from the Puddingstone Community Club (PCC), shared with TapInto Parsippany, has led to some confusion regarding the scheduling of our upcoming candidate debate and the media coverage surrounding it. We are writing to provide clarification and ensure there is no misunderstanding—particularly regarding the role of Parsippany Focus, whose reporting was based on the information available at the time and was not inaccurate.

The letter to the editor included the following statement:

“Recently, an article was published in the Parsippany Focus, followed by Letters to the Editor that were NOT penned by residents of Puddingstone and contained errors. The headline in the article indicates that the incumbent Mayor Barberio remains unresponsive. That statement is false…”

We want to be clear: Parsippany Focus reported accurately based on the facts and communication provided at the time of publication. The article was written in good faith, and its headline and content reflected the information that had been made available to the outlet. Any confusion stems not from journalistic error, but from a lack of complete context on our part.

The letter further stated:

“Mayor Barberio and I spoke, and the Mayor agreed to attend our debate and said his campaign manager would call me to coordinate and finalize the terms. To secure a date for the debate, all candidates were given a deadline to object. If I did not hear from a candidate by then, I assumed they would attend. Mayor Barberio and his campaign manager did not reach out to object. At the time of publication, all three candidates were expected to attend. To be clear, the PCC does not cater to or endorse any candidate. We remain a neutral party hosting a live debate to help residents understand where candidates stand on local issues.”

This additional detail about the scheduling and coordination process had not been shared with Parsippany Focus prior to the article’s release. While these discussions were ongoing internally within the PCC, they were not fully communicated externally at that time.

To clarify the timeline: organizing a date that worked for all three candidates proved challenging. We reached out to each campaign to coordinate logistics and proposed a system where, absent any objections by a set deadline, we would assume a candidate intended to participate. Mayor Barberio’s campaign did not submit an objection, and in line with our stated protocol, this was interpreted as confirmation of attendance.

The confusion arose from how this information was conveyed to Parsippany Focus. While Mayor Barberio’s team had not explicitly confirmed attendance, our internal assumption—based on the absence of an objection—was not fully explained to the publication. This led to an understandable, though unintentional, misalignment in public perception.

As a volunteer-led organization devoted to civic engagement, our sole aim is to offer a fair and neutral platform for residents to hear directly from candidates. In this case, a gap in communication on our part contributed to public misunderstanding, and we deeply regret any resulting confusion.

We have since spoken with Parsippany Focus and want to state unequivocally: the publication did not falsify or misrepresent information. The issue arose from a lack of full context regarding our internal planning process.

We also want to affirm that Mayor Barberio’s office was responsive and cooperative throughout our planning efforts.

We hope this message provides clarity and reaffirms our commitment to transparency, neutrality, and respectful civic dialogue.

Sincerely,
John Ihne
President, Puddingstone Community Club

PARSIPPANY — For more than five decades, the National PTA’s Reflections program has encouraged students nationwide to explore their creativity through art. Founded in 1969 by Mary Lou Anderson, then President of the Colorado State PTA and a passionate arts educator, the program has grown into one of the PTA’s most beloved and enduring traditions. Each year, students interpret a student-selected theme through various artistic disciplines.

This year’s theme, Accepting Imperfections, resonated with young artists across Parsippany. Students from Northvail Elementary School, Central Middle School, and Parsippany High School submitted original works in six categories: Literature, Visual Arts, Music Composition, Photography, Film Production, and Dance Choreography.

Parsippany High School’s own Erin Kirk was among the standout entries. Her Dance Choreography piece, Change Your Perspective, advanced through the local, county, and state levels, ultimately earning a National Award of Merit—a first for Parsippany High School.

This prestigious recognition places Erin among a select group of students nationwide whose creative efforts are celebrated at the Reflections program’s highest level. The Parsippany High School PTSA praised Erin for her dedication, artistic excellence, and the powerful message behind her work.

“We are incredibly proud of Erin,” said a PTSA spokesperson. “She showcased immense talent and demonstrated the resilience and introspection this year’s theme calls for. Her achievement is a win for the entire Parsippany community.”

Erin, a Student at Parsippany High School, plans to pursue a career in Physical Therapy after graduating in June.

As the school continues to foster an environment that values the arts, Erin’s success inspires future student participants.

PARSIPPANY — Bargain hunters, treasure seekers, and neighborhood families alike will once again gather for one of Lake Parsippany’s most cherished annual traditions—the Lake Parsippany Flea Market and Community Garage Sale, returning on Saturday, June 7, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Drewes Beach on Lake Shore Drive.

Organized by the Lake Parsippany Property Owners Association and its enthusiastic Events Committee, this event draws dozens of residents and visitors eager to browse booths brimming with gently used goods, handcrafted items, and household finds.

Set against the scenic shoreline across from Dorothy Road, the market serves as a community staple. It offers a platform for residents to declutter, connect, and even make a little extra cash. Vendor spaces are available for just $15.00 if reserved by May 15, or $20.00 after the deadline. Participants must bring their tables, tents, and display materials.

A raindate is scheduled for Sunday, June 8, ensuring that this beloved summer kickoff event goes on—rain or shine.

“This market isn’t just about sales—it’s about community spirit,” said a member of the organizing committee. “You’ll see kids selling lemonade, neighbors catching up, and families enjoying a fun-filled day by the lake.”

Residents are encouraged to register early and come prepared for a day of browsing, bartering, and community bonding. For more information, visit the Lake Parsippany website or call (973) 887-4947.

MORRIS COUNTY — Grateful Paws NJ, a nonprofit dedicated to animal welfare and compassionate care, has introduced a heartwarming initiative connecting local seniors with senior shelter cats. The “Seniors for Seniors” program helps individuals aged 60 and older—or those receiving government assistance—adopt senior cats at no cost, providing emotional support for the resident and a second chance for animals in need.

The initiative addresses two critical needs: companionship for older adults who may live alone, and loving homes for cats that have spent extended time in shelters. The program offers a win-win solution in an era where loneliness and animal overpopulation are pressing challenges.

Grateful Paws covers essential expenses for adopters, including:

• Food, including prescription diets
• Litter and litter boxes
• Veterinary visits

“This program is about dignity—for the people and the pets,” said a representative of Grateful Paws. “Senior cats are often overlooked; many seniors want companionship, but are hesitant due to the cost. We’re proud to bridge that gap.”

The organization is seeking community support to keep the initiative running. Donations can be made via Facebook or directly by emailing [email protected].

Local veterans and seniors have already expressed gratitude for the comfort and joy their new feline friends have brought.

HANOVER — The Hanover Township Police Department is teaming up with the American Red Cross to host a community blood drive on Friday, May 16, at the Hanover Township Community Center at 15 North Jefferson Road, Hanover. The drive will run from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is open to all eligible donors.

The need for blood is constant, and each donation can help save multiple lives. As an added incentive, the American Red Cross will give individuals who donate blood between May 1 and May 18 a $20.00 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice.

Appointments are encouraged and can be scheduled by scanning the QR code provided in the flyer or by visiting RedCrossBlood.org and entering HanoverTownship as the sponsor code. For additional assistance, donors may call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Help make a difference—give blood, save lives, and support your local community.

PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, April 26, at 8:00 a.m., a wave of purple swept across GAF Headquarters in Parsippany as residents from across the Garden State gathered for PurpleStride New Jersey, a major awareness and fundraising event hosted by the New Jersey Affiliate of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN).

The event was part of a national movement that saw nearly 60 PurpleStride walks take place across the country on the same day. Together, participants marched in solidarity to support pancreatic cancer patients, survivors, and the loved ones they’ve lost—raising both awareness and life-saving funds.

The New Jersey walk exceeded all expectations, raising $586,800 and exceeding its original goal of $530,000—reaching 111% of its target. The effort contributed to PanCAN’s ambitious national goal of $17 million.

“We can make a difference in the lives of pancreatic cancer patients nationally by taking action locally,” said Debbie Schupper, volunteer Affiliate Chair of PanCAN’s New Jersey Affiliate. “What we saw today was not just generosity—it was purpose.”

The walk featured a sea of participants wearing purple, many with signs and team shirts in honor of loved ones. Pancreatic cancer is currently the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, with a five-year survival rate of just 13 percent. The event served as both a tribute and a call to action.

Top fundraising teams included:

• Love for Lauren V — $82,045
• Andy’s Avengers — $42,442
• Team Cashman Young — $32,599
• Principal Herman’s Heroes — $26,930
• IronDad — $21,190

Top individual fundraisers were:

• Tracey Early — $72,578
• Karen Young — $32,548
• Sharon Bittman — $16,727
• David Herman — $12,758
• Mandeep Trivedi — $9,345

This year’s PurpleStride was made possible by a network of generous sponsors, including Revolution Medicines as the Leading National Partner, National Sponsors AbbVie and Ipsen, Regional Sponsor Nestlé Health Science, and Community Champion Sponsors RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey.

To learn more about PanCAN’s work and mission to improve outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients, visit www.pancan.org.

Dear Editor:

Throughout his current four-year term, Mayor Barberio has often expressed his frustration with—and disdain for—the critics he derisively calls “keyboard warriors,” who, to his way of thinking, dare to use emails and texts to voice their concerns about the mayor and his self-serving policies.

And oh, how Mayor Barberio, with his usual bravado and bluster, boasts about his willingness and eagerness to directly face and hear from his critics. As Jamie likes to say, any Parsippany residents who don’t have the guts to engage with him in a face-to-face conversation are not worth his time or attention.

How the tables have turned!

Faced with invitations to debate Councilman Musella in an open, public, and face-to-face forum, the brave Mayor Barberio has tap danced, waffled, prevaricated—and finally declared that he will only agree to debate Mr. Musella over Zoom, with no in-person audience and a provision that he and Mr. Musella are situated in different locations.

So much for Mayor Barberio’s double standards and tough-guy talk, which have defined his 12 years in office.

What Parsippany needs now is not another four years of Mayor Barberio. Still, rather a mayor who is true to himself and to the Parsippany families he will be serving—and Councilman Musella is that person.

Bob Crawford