Parsippany Honors Diwali with Festive Banner and Community Celebration at Town Hall
PARSIPPANY — Members of the Indian community in Parsippany gathered on the lawn of Town Hall, joined by Mayor James Barberio and Council Vice President Frank Neglia, to unveil a “Happy Diwali” banner in honor of the upcoming “Festival of Lights.” The festive display celebrates the spirit of Diwali, a holiday observed by millions worldwide to mark the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
During the gathering, Mayor Barberio extended his heartfelt wishes to the community, saying, “I wish all who celebrate a wonderful Diwali. I hope you have a meaningful five days as you celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.”
The banner and celebration mark Parsippany’s commitment to embracing its rich cultural diversity and supporting the traditions of its residents. As Diwali approaches, the community looks forward to a time of joy, reflection, and unity.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Hills High School Wrestling Team is gearing up for a fun and festive fundraiser to support its athletes. On Saturday, November 2, the team will host a Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast at Applebee’s, located at 1057 Route 46 East, Parsippany, NJ. The event will run from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., and tickets are available for $15.00.
Attendees can enjoy a delicious breakfast that includes pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs, and coffee, juice, soda, or tea. In addition to the tasty meal, there will be a special holiday treat for all who attend – the opportunity to take pictures with Santa Claus!
This family-friendly event is a wonderful way to support the high school’s wrestling team while getting into the holiday spirit. The funds raised will go towards team expenses, helping ensure the wrestlers have the resources they need for a successful season.
Tickets can be purchased in advance via Venmo (@PHHSWrestling), cash, or check. Payments can be dropped off at 241 Allentown Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054. The Venmo handle for the event is @PHHSWrestling.
For those interested in attending, you can reach out to Anna McGinty at (973) 610-817 or via email at PHHSWrestlingTeam@gmail.com for more information or to secure your tickets.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy breakfast, take a photo with Santa, and support the Parsippany Hills Wrestling Team in their upcoming season!
Step into the bewitching allure of the 'Evil Pumpkin Patch'—where every grin hides a spooky secret. 🎃🌌. File Photo
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School is gearing up for a night of fun, frights, and community spirit with its annual “Halloween at the Hills” event on Wednesday, October 30, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The event promises to offer a safe, family-friendly environment for children to enjoy trick-or-treating, games, and other spooky activities.
Organized by students and staff, this event has become a much-anticipated tradition in the local community. Children are invited to come dressed in their favorite costumes and participate in an evening filled with candy, laughter, and excitement. The high school will be decorated for Halloween, providing a festive backdrop as kids collect treats and take part in the Halloween fun.
In addition to the festivities, participants are encouraged to support the local community by bringing a non-perishable canned good. Donations will go to the Interfaith Food Pantry, thanks to the efforts of the high school’s Interact Club, ensuring that the spirit of giving is as much a part of the event as the spirit of Halloween.
The event will be held at Parsippany Hills High School, located at 20 Rita Drive, Morris Plains. With safety as a top priority, parents can rest assured that their children will enjoy trick-or-treating in a supervised and secure environment.
For families looking for a fun and safe way to celebrate Halloween, “Halloween at the Hills” is the perfect opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit while supporting a good cause.
outh Lacrosse Event: Free Pick Up & Play Clinic Arrives at Parsippany Hills High School
PARSIPPANY – Parsippany Lacrosse is offering a free Pick Up & Play™ introductory lacrosse clinic sponsored by USA Lacrosse on Sunday, November 3, during USA Lacrosse National Celebrate Lacrosse Week. The clinic will be held at Parsippany Hills High School, located at 20 Rita Drive, Morris Plains. There are two sessions available: 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
USA Lacrosse National Celebrate Lacrosse Week includes free Pick Up & Play clinics across the country from November 2-10. These clinics are designed to give youth players ages 14 and younger a chance to try out the sport and connect directly with local lacrosse organizations to help further their lacrosse journey. The annual event introduces thousands of youth from diverse backgrounds to the game of lacrosse. A core goal of this initiative is to make the sport more welcoming, diverse, and inclusive, encouraging new players to engage with a sport that holds many opportunities for young people.
The clinics are intended for boys and girls in grades 3 through 8, and no prior lacrosse experience or equipment is necessary. Parents interested in registering their child for the free clinic by clicking here.
Event Details
What: Parsippany Lacrosse FREE Pick Up & Play Clinic
When: Sunday, November 3 || 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Where: Parsippany Hills High School (Football Field)
About USA Lacrosse
USA Lacrosse, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, is a recognized sports organization of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee. As the governing body for men’s and women’s lacrosse in the United States, USA Lacrosse leads the U.S. National Teams Program and establishes universal standards. With more than 400,000 members across the country, USA Lacrosse unites players, coaches, officials, parents, and program leaders. Together, they inspire participation, enrich the athlete experience, and support the sport’s growth.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Lions Club, in collaboration with the Livingston Lions Club, invites you to Diwali Utsav – a celebration that promises to be both a Fundraiser and a Fun-Raiser! On Saturday, November 9, from 3:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the Livingston Community Center at 204 Hillside Ave will be transformed into a vibrant hub of joy, philanthropy, and cultural celebration. Join us to embrace the spirit of Diwali, indulge in festive delicacies, and support causes that make a difference.
As a cornerstone of Lions Clubs International’s century-long commitment to service, this Diwali Utsav will fund four key initiatives: Childhood Cancer, Diabetes, Hunger, and Youth Programs. Every dollar raised is a step toward changing lives, making this festival a celebration with a purpose.
What to Expect:
Ramp Walk to Fight Childhood Cancer – Strut your stuff for a cause, with every step supporting young fighters.
Live Performances – Move to the beat and celebrate youth empowerment.
Food Stalls – Delight in a feast that fuels our mission to end hunger.
Dance for Diabetes – Garba Night – Unwind and dance, twirling in style to support diabetes awareness.
Sponsors We’re grateful for our sponsors who help fuel our mission:
Admission Tickets are $15.00 per person (Early Bird) and $25.00 per person after November 1. Children under 12 enjoy free admission. Seats are limited, so bring family and friends to experience Diwali in its truest sense – through celebration and service.
Morris County Technical School Teacher Mr. Rosado, Lakeland Hills YMCA CEO Alex Martinez, Parsippany Focus Publisher Frank Cahill, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella, and Student Artists Amaya Foster, Naavya Kandukuri, and Owen Bacher. Photo by ShopMorrisCounty
MORRIS COUNTY – On Wednesday, October 16, the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA celebrated the grand opening of its new art gallery with an evening filled with art, culture, and community spirit. The event, which began at 6:00 p.m., unveiled the gallery’s inaugural exhibition featuring works from the talented design students of the Morris County Vocational School District.
Located at 100 Fanny Road in Mountain Lakes, the YMCA’s new art gallery was created as a space to foster cultural exchange, dialogue, and collaboration among diverse members of the local community. The grand opening was attended by community members, artists, and their families, as well as YMCA supporters and staff.
Amaya Foster-Edghill captivated attendees with her stunning paper mache artwork, “The Dress of a Fairytale.”
The exhibition highlighted creative works from students of the Morris County Vocational-Technical High School, located in Denville. Many of these young artists previously contributed to the YMCA’s Summer Camp program by painting a colorful mural on an outdoor storage container, which transformed the space into a vibrant display of art.
During the opening, Alejandro Martinez, the President and CEO of Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, explained the importance of incorporating an art gallery within a nonprofit health and wellness facility. “The gallery provides a space for community members to engage with visual arts and enriches the cultural landscape,” Martinez said. “It will foster a greater appreciation of the arts and increase community involvement and support for our mission.”
Martinez also shared plans for the gallery to host educational programs, workshops, and lectures, open to all ages, aimed at enhancing art education and engagement. The YMCA intends to collaborate with local artists, organizations, and nonprofits to showcase diverse artistic expressions. “The only limit is one’s imagination,” Martinez added.
The Lakeland Hills YMCA’s gallery will feature rotating exhibitions quarterly, and community members are encouraged to nominate future artists and works for display. Future exhibitions will include pieces from local schools, senior artists, art councils, and organizations involved in art therapy.
Parsippany resident Owen Bacher showcased his creative talent with his featured piece, titled “Phases, 2023“
Rosemary Linder Day, the YMCA’s Vice President of Marketing and Membership, remarked on the significance of the new gallery: “We are creating a welcoming environment and a gathering place for the community. Art has the power to raise awareness of social issues, highlight important causes, and encourage dialogue and action within our community.”
The grand opening, which ran until 7:30 p.m., was well-attended, with refreshments served to guests as they viewed the exhibition and mingled with the young artists. The YMCA’s leadership expressed excitement about the gallery’s future and its potential to become a cultural hub for the community.
The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is committed to strengthening the community through programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The YMCA provides essential services that promote overall well-being and support individuals and families in achieving their fullest potential. Dedicated to serving the local community, the Y offers a wide range of opportunities for personal and community growth.
Governor-Elect of the NJ District Kiwanis International, Frank Cahill, with Members of Parsippany's Key Club During the Fall Rally at Great Adventure
PARSIPPANY — Thousands of enthusiastic high school students from across the state gathered at Six Flags Great Adventure on Sunday, October 20, 2024, for the New Jersey Key Club’s Annual Fall Rally. The event, which is one of the largest gatherings of Key Club members in the state, kicked off the school year with a day filled with leadership, community service initiatives, and, of course, thrilling rides.
Key Club, the largest student-led service organization in the world, holds its Fall Rally each year to inspire members with messages of leadership, service, and unity. This year’s theme, “Leaders in Action”, emphasized the importance of student-led initiatives in making a positive impact on local communities.
As the day began, students made their way to the Great Adventure arena, where they were greeted with high-energy music and performances. The keynote speaker, New Jersey District GovernorMartin Slezak, delivered a powerful message about the role of young people in shaping the future through service and volunteerism.
“Key Club is not just about service, but about becoming the leaders our communities need,” said the Governor. “This rally is a chance for all of us to come together, connect, and reignite our passion for making a difference.”
But the day wasn’t all work and no play. After the formal sessions, students had the rest of the afternoon to enjoy Six Flags’ famous roller coasters, including Kingda Ka, El Toro, and the newly opened Jersey Devil Coaster. Many Key Clubbers formed bonds and made lasting memories as they explored the park with friends from other schools.
For many, the highlight of the day was the opportunity to meet other Key Club members from different parts of the state, exchanging ideas and discussing future service projects. Some chapters used the event as a team-building exercise, while others aimed to recruit new members by showcasing the fun and impact of being part of Key Club.
As the sun set and the park’s neon lights flickered to life, students left the event energized and ready to take on new service projects back in their communities. The Fall Rally not only offered them a day of fun but also reaffirmed their commitment to making the world a better place through service.
“We’re all here because we believe in something bigger than ourselves,” said one Key Club member. “Today reminded us that when we work together, we can achieve amazing things.”
With the Fall Rally setting the tone for the school year, New Jersey’s Key Club members left Great Adventure inspired, united, and ready to take action.
Roaring Through the Halls: A Jurassic Surprise Awaits PHS Halloween Revelers
PARSIPPANY — The Key Club of Parsippany High School is set to bring the Halloween spirit to life with its annual Halloween at The High event on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The event, hosted at Parsippany High School, invites the community to enjoy a festive evening filled with spooky fun and activities.
The Halloween celebration has become a beloved tradition in Parsippany, drawing families and children for a night of excitement. This year’s event promises a variety of engaging activities, including Trick-or-Treating, a Haunted Alley, Children’s Crafts, Games, and more. The event is organized by Key Club members, who prepare all of the activities and decorations to ensure a memorable experience for attendees.
“Every year, this is one of our most popular events,” said a representative from the Key Club. “We’re excited to see the community come together and enjoy a night filled with Halloween fun. Everything is planned and prepared by our members, and we love making it special for the kids.”
The event is free and open to the public, making it an excellent opportunity for families to join in on the Halloween festivities in a safe and welcoming environment. For more information, contact Nicholas Rice, Key Club Editor, at narice26@pthsd.net.
The Parsippany High School Key Club is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.
Spooky Season Kicks Off with Parsippany’s Annual Trunk or Treat at Smith Field Park
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is gearing up for a spooktacular day of family fun with its annual Trunk or Treat event. The Halloween-themed celebration will take place on Saturday, October 26, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Smith Field Park.
This year’s event promises to deliver a frightfully fun experience for children and families alike. Attendees are encouraged to dress up in their best costumes and enjoy a safe and festive environment for trick-or-treating. To participate, each child is asked to bring one 50-count bag of factory-sealed candy as their admission fee.
A special highlight of the day will be the Pumpkin Patch, where kids can pick out and paint their very own pumpkins, adding an extra dash of creativity and autumn fun to the celebration.
In addition to trick-or-treating, the event will feature food trucks from popular local vendors such as ShopRite, Mr. Softee, Kona Ice, and Avellino’s Pizza, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a delicious bite while taking part in the festivities.
With candy, costumes, and pumpkins galore, the Trunk or Treat event promises to be a Halloween celebration to remember for the Parsippany community.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Board of County Commissioners last night approved $1.3 million in grants for seven trail projects, reinforcing their commitment to expanding outdoor recreational amenities and providing residents with greater opportunities for exercise, relaxation, and connection to nature throughout Morris County.
The grants will fund the design of four trails and complete construction on three others in municipalities across the county, including Morristown, Mendham Borough, Morris Plains, Randolph Township, Denville, East Hanover, and Montville.
“This program has grown beyond our expectations, providing invaluable recreational spaces and boosting the quality of life for our residents,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, the board’s liaison to the Morris County Office of Planning and Preservation. “With careful planning and engineering, these trails will serve as long-lasting assets for our communities.”
Burnham Park Trails (Morristown): $107,445 to design a 1.03-mile trail, featuring pavement and boardwalk access to ponds, athletic fields, and recreational areas in Burnham Park, Washington Street, and Fosterfields Living Historical Farm.
Borough Park and Arboretum Trail (Mendham Borough): $28,000 for a 0.55-mile paved trail, linking Main Street to local parks and ball fields.
Community Park Trail (Morris Plains): $31,278 for a 0.75-mile gravel loop trail around recreational facilities and the community pool, with lane striping included.
Rosenfarb-Guerin Farms Trail (Randolph): $93,148 to design a 1.14-mile gravel and boardwalk trail connecting Dover Chester Road to Calais Road, Veterans Community Park, and Patriot’s Path.
Construction Project Recommendations:
Knuth Fields Walking Trail, Phase Two (Denville): $304,000 to complete a 0.6-mile paved trail connecting recreational areas and local schools.
Lurker Park Walking Path, Phase Two (East Hanover): $212,000 to complete a 1.06-mile trail with mulch, gravel, and boardwalk bridges, linking River Road to Patriot’s Path and other recreation areas.
Waughaw Valley Trail (Montville): $537,638 to finalize construction of a 1.31-mile gravel trail with bridge crossings, designed for both biking and hiking around Route 202 and Towaco Center.
Since the launch of the Morris County Trail Construction Grant Program in 2016, the county has authorized 54 grants for projects spanning nearly 29 miles of trails. The program is funded through the voter-approved Preservation Trust Fund, which was established in 1992 and modified in 2014 to include recreational trail development. With these latest approvals, the county’s total investment in public trails exceeds $6.5 million.
“The variety and scale of these projects demonstrate how much we value creating accessible and well-maintained outdoor spaces,” said Shaw. “From short community paths to multi-use greenways, our trail network continues to grow and benefit residents of all ages.”
For more information about the Trail Construction Grant Program, visit the county’s website.
At last night’s Council meeting, I was surprised to learn that Mayor Barberio is trying to slide 2 more PILOTs in before the end of the year. On the public agenda before the meeting, there was never any mention of 4 Gatehall Drive and 2 Sylvan Way as being “Areas in Need of Redevelopment.” For those who are not aware, the first step to getting a PILOT is a resolution from the PTH Council which needs to be introduced at the Agenda Meeting. Last night’s meeting was not an Agenda meeting.
If PILOTs are as good as the Mayor and John Inglesino claim, why do they continue to try and sell it in the most obtuse and sneaky way? Once these PILOT projects go up they will affect the town and services in a great deal of ways. None of which are good in my opinion. The Gatehall project will border on residential properties in Sedgefield and Glacier Hills. Put yourself in the position of the residents in the surrounding communities. How would you like these projects in your backyard? At a prior Council Meeting on October 8, 2024, a township resident expressed his concern that PILOTs added to the student population of the schools. Mayor Barberio responded falsely that Pilots are not responsible for the increase in student attendance in the schools. In prior meetings in November and December of 2023 Mr Barberio stated on more than one occasion that these projects could not get built without the PILOT-driven tax abatements. Therefore they are a catalyst in increasing the number of students in the schools. In reality, there would be none of these large apartment buildings going up all over town if they were not given 30-year tax exemptions courtesy of the Barberio administration. The Mayor is subsidizing the very thing he claims to be against.
I grew up in this town and have lived here my entire life. I have never seen a Democrat or Republican Mayor who is hellbent on developing every blade of grass that exists in this town. It is obvious that Parsippany needs an immediate change in leadership, one that will not be all too cozy with the developers and their representatives.
Vacant Office Space at 2 Sylvan Way Prompts Redevelopment Inquiry
PARSIPPANY — In its ongoing effort to stimulate local development, Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council recently passed Resolution R2024-176, (3-2) which authorizes the Planning Board to investigate whether 2 Sylvan Way, a significant office property in the township, qualifies as an area in need of redevelopment. The property, which has a total of 56,156 square feet, currently has 28,186 square feet of space available for lease. Councilman Justin Musella and Councilwoman Judy Hernandez voted against the Resolution.
Built-in 1977 and renovated in 1998, the three-story building is classified as Class B office space, indicating its suitability for businesses seeking functional, cost-effective office environments. The property is owned by Lincoln Property Company, a prominent real estate firm known for managing commercial assets nationwide.
Council Approves Redevelopment Study for Parsippany’s 2 Sylvan Way
Despite its prime location in Parsippany’s bustling commercial district, the building has seen some vacancy, prompting the township to consider its redevelopment potential. The resolution sets in motion a formal investigation to determine if 2 Sylvan Way can be revitalized under the state’s Local Redevelopment and Housing Law without resorting to condemnation.
“By taking this step, the township aims to evaluate the building’s potential to contribute more effectively to the community and local economy,” said Frank Cahill, Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development. “With nearly half of the space available, this property represents a major opportunity for attracting new businesses and investment.”
Class B office spaces like 2 Sylvan Way offer potential tenants a balance of affordability and functionality, making them attractive to small and medium-sized businesses. A successful redevelopment could transform the property into a modern hub for professional services, technology firms, or other businesses seeking a suburban office location with easy access to major highways.
As the Planning Board begins its investigation, local officials remain optimistic about the building’s future role in driving economic growth and improving the township’s business environment.
The Planning Board has been tasked with carrying out the investigation and is expected to report its findings back to the Mayor and Council. If the area is deemed appropriate for redevelopment, further plans will be discussed, potentially opening the door for new investments in retail, warehouses, multi-family residential units, or mixed-use developments.
The results of the investigation will determine the next steps for this property and may pave the way for new investment and revitalization in the heart of Parsippany.
Public Invited to Safely Dispose of Unused Medications at Morris County Drug Take Back Event
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, Hanover Township Chief Michael Loock, Morris Plains Borough Chief of Police Mike Koroski, Morris Township Chief of Police Robert Shearer, and Randolph Township Chief of Police Will Harzula announce that on Saturday, October 26 2024, they will be participating in the annual National Prescription Drug Take Back Day program.
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a semi-annual event coordinated nationally by the United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in which law enforcement agencies at the state, county, and municipal level work collectively to host National Prescription Drug Take Back Day across the nation.
The goal of National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is to encourage the public to anonymously turn over unused, unwanted, or expired prescription medicine for proper disposal. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office has partnered with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, the Hanover Township Police Department, the Morris Plains Borough Police Department, the Morris Township Police Department, and the Randolph Township Police Department in this effort to reduce abuse and misuse of pharmaceutical drugs. At its conclusion, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and Morris County Sheriff’s Office will collect the discarded prescription drugs and properly destroy them in a safe and non-hazardous manner.
During this event, satellite collection sites will be operating from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., including at the following Morris County locations,
ACME Supermarket 690 Millbrook Ave. Randolph, New Jersey 07869
Shoprite of Greater Morristown 178 East Hanover Ave. Cedar Knolls, New Jersey 07927
Stop and Shop Supermarket 245 Littleton Rd./US 202 Morris Plains, New Jersey 07950
Wegmans 34 Sylvan Way Hanover, NJ 07981
If you are unable to drop off your medication at one of these locations, you can utilize any other permanent drop box locations nearest you, by checking here.
"Evil Pumpkin Patch" at 24 Sedgefield Drive Becomes the Ultimate Halloween Destination
PARSIPPANY — In every neighborhood, there’s always that one house that takes holiday decorations to the next level, becoming a local legend. This Halloween season, if you’re in search of a festive thrill, there’s one place that should be at the top of your list: the home at 24 Sedgefield Drive. Renowned for their annual tradition of outdoing themselves with increasingly elaborate themes, this year’s spectacle is an “Evil Pumpkin Patch” that transforms the yard into a scene straight from a spine-chilling autumn storybook.
Spooky “Evil Pumpkin Patch” Transforms Neighborhood into Halloween Wonderland
Year after year, the house on Sedgefield Drive undergoes a dramatic transformation in October, offering a fresh experience for repeat visitors with themes ranging from haunted mansions to eerie graveyards. This Halloween, the “Evil Pumpkin Patch” is drawing in even larger crowds, and as dusk settles, the magic truly begins. The yard comes alive under the glow of moonlight, featuring a collection of wickedly carved pumpkins, each lit by flickering candlelight that casts eerie shadows. But the visuals are just part of the allure—sound effects ranging from the cackle of witches to the rustling of unseen creatures complete the atmosphere, creating a truly immersive experience.
What sets this display apart is its dynamic, interactive nature. Hidden animatronics surprise visitors with sudden movements, and a rolling fog effect late in the evening blankets the scene in an otherworldly mist. The home at 24 Sedgefield Drive has become more than just a neighborhood curiosity; it’s a celebration of the Halloween spirit and a tribute to community engagement. Families, friends, and even couples on date nights make their way to the house, eager to catch a glimpse of the spectacular display. The night air fills with delighted gasps, laughter, and the occasional startled scream.
Creepy Animatronics and Wicked Pumpkins Await at the Famous 24 Sedgefield Drive
The homeowners, who prefer to maintain an air of mystery, pour their passion into this annual event. While they usually stay behind the scenes, they’ve been known to occasionally emerge in costumes that fit the theme, adding an extra layer of fun to the story they’ve created in their yard.
As Halloween approaches, the “Evil Pumpkin Patch” at 24 Sedgefield Drive is a must-see destination. It’s more than just a display—it’s a creative homage to Halloween, bringing joy to the community through shared thrills and good-natured scares. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the spectacle while being mindful of the neighborhood and respectful of the homeowners’ efforts, ensuring this cherished tradition continues to thrive for years to come.
At the October 8th Town Council meeting, the self-described “ecstatic” Mayor Barberio once again appeared to be disconnected from reality.
Responding to Parsippany resident, Bob Venezia’s measured and fact-filled reminder that developer-friendly PILOT funded housing construction will inevitably increase the number and the cost of students who will be attending Parsippany public schools, Mayor Barberio stated that his and John Inglesino’s PILOT’s “do not create school age children but, housing does”
Huh??
The Mayor’s inability to understand the simple reality that housing built by developers enjoying a 30-year tax break will provide the school district with fewer funds than housing built by developers assessed the standard tax rate, is worrisome and suggests a Mayor who is either unable to grasp basic economic facts or a Mayor who is attempting to play a shell game with the voters because he believes Parsippany residents are either too stupid or too disinterested to hold him and his Council cohorts (Frank Neglia and Paul Carifi) to account.
Ignorance and/or arrogance will not be a winning formula for Mr. Barberio coming next June’s Mayoral primary. The fact that he doesn’t understand that is telling and appalling.
MORRIS COUNTY – A Denville man was taken into custody on Sunday after allegedly hitting a police officer with his vehicle while attempting to flee a traffic stop in Denville Township.
On October 20, a Denville police officer initiated a traffic stop on Indian Road. During the stop, it was discovered that the driver, Liam Harrigan, 27, had an active NCIC warrant from the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
When officers attempted to arrest Harrigan, he fled the scene, striking an officer with his vehicle. The officer sustained minor injuries, according to the police report.
Shortly after the incident, the New Jersey State Police found Harrigan’s abandoned vehicle on Interstate 80 eastbound in Fairfield Township. Denville Police Detectives continued the investigation and located Harrigan at a Costco in Wayne Township, where he was apprehended with assistance from the Wayne Police Department.
Harrigan faces numerous charges, including eluding, obstruction, hindering apprehension, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, assault by auto, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of controlled dangerous substances (CDS), and several motor vehicle violations such as reckless driving, failure to report an accident and disregard for a stop sign.
Following his arrest, Harrigan was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility, where he remains awaiting a future court date.
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.
Celebrating a Legacy of Service: Parsippany Office on Aging Turns 50
PARSIPPANY — This year, the Parsippany Office on Aging is proudly celebrating its 50th anniversary, continuing to serve as a vital lifeline for the township’s senior residents. Established in 1974 by Rosemarie Agostini at the request of then-Mayor Jack Fahy, it was the first municipal office in New Jersey dedicated solely to the needs of elderly residents. Over the course of the past five decades, it has grown to provide a wide array of services supporting Parsippany’s aging population.
Located at 1130 Knoll Road, the Office on Aging serves about 25 seniors every day with essential services such as help with paperwork for Medicare, tax resources, and assistance with daily needs such as copying and faxing. “Our mission is clear: we do everything to help our seniors. If we can’t help directly, we make sure to connect them with someone who can,” Agostini said in an interview.
A cornerstone of the office’s services is its transportation program, providing seniors with rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, and other essential destinations. This is especially helpful for those residing in the Mt. Tabor section of Parsippany, which offers limited public transportation. Furthermore, the office lends out wheelchairs and walkers to needy seniors, as well as canes, free of charge.
Five Decades Strong: How Parsippany’s Office on Aging Continues to Impact Seniors
“The Office on Aging is a vital support system for our seniors. Our senior citizens are the backbone of the Parsippany community, and this 50-year-old program continues to offer resources to assist our seniors in any way that would be beneficial to their quality of life. Be it guidance in filling out energy assistance forms, Anchor rebates, or tax returns, aid in navigating email and correspondence, transport to essential medical visits and the food market, the community food pantry or even lending an ear to someone who needs to talk, the Parsippany Office on Aging has performed invaluable services since its inception and I applaud and support their work,“ said Mayor James Barberio.
Senior citizens are also given access to computers and digital assistance to help them navigate the complications of the online world.
Over the years, the Office on Aging has introduced over 40 programs designed to enhance the lives of seniors. One of the most prominent programs was its intergenerational program, in which seniors were matched with younger members of the community in projects such as concerts for children and adults and pen pal programs.
While some initiatives are no longer running, they had a lasting impact on the community. Many of those students are now in their 60s, a testament to the office’s long-standing influence. One such initiative was spearheaded by Francesca Agostini, Rosemarie’s daughter: Parsippany’s first-ever senior prom. This event made Parsippany the first municipality in the nation to hold such a celebration.
This initiative was even recognized by the United States Commissioner of Education for its excellence.
As part of the Office Aging, senior residents have access to the Parsippany Senior Center which is open to residents aged 50 and older and serves as a central hub for social, recreational, and wellness activities. From fitness classes to book clubs, the Parsippany Senior Center provides seniors with the opportunities to stay active and engaged.
To commemorate the 50th anniversary, Parsippany seniors are encouraged to learn more about available services by contacting the Office on Aging at (973) 263-7351 or visiting their website by clicking here.
Special events and initiatives are planned throughout the year to mark this milestone in service to the community.
