Brian J. Cahill, Michael A. Mihalko, Ronald F. Francioli, John L. Ferramosca, and Thomas "Ace" Gallagher
HANOVER – The Township Committee of the Township of Hanover has scheduled a meeting for Thursday, December 14, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. This meeting will include an in-person, open public conference and a closed executive session for legal and personnel matters. The gathering will take place in Conference Room “A” at the Township Municipal Building, situated at 1000 Route 10 West in Whippany.
At 8:00 p.m. on the same day, the governing body will convene its Regular, Open Public Meeting in the Main Public Meeting Room. During this session, formal actions will be taken. Members of the public are cordially invited to attend both the conference and the regular meeting.
Santa and Mrs. Claus strike a cheerful pose alongside Applebee's team members, arriving in style thanks to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire District 5.
PARSIPPANY – Applebee’s in Parsippany hosted its highly-anticipated annual “Breakfast with Santa” event, a fundraiser for Toys for Tots. The event was a resounding success, with tickets selling out quickly.
Doherty Enterprises‘ Applebee’s hopes to reach $5.5 million in total donations for Toys for Tots over the past 25 years, launching its 25th annual holiday campaigns at participating restaurants in New Jersey, New York, Florida, and Georgia this holiday season.
Five-year-old Logan Leone and his mom, Kayla Leone, delight in the company of Santa and Mrs. Claus, sharing a heartwarming moment filled with holiday joy.
100% of the collected contributions are donated directly to the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program so new toys can be distributed to deserving area families.
Joey Gabrible, Maria Ferrol, and 4-year-old Ashley Gershan share a festive moment with Santa and Mrs. Claus, capturing the magic of the holiday season.Rachel Gaida, Training General Manager at Doherty Enterprises, joins in the holiday spirit, posing with Santa and Mrs. Claus for a memorable moment.
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Toys for Tots for the 25th year and are honored to support underserved children in our local communities during the holiday season year after year,” Kurt Pahlitzsch, Doherty’s vice president of operations, said. “Our commitment to this cause is a reflection of our dedication to the community, and we love bringing joy to children in need as well as adding festive elements of fun for our guests.”
Lance Corporal Richards cherishes a special moment with Santa and Mrs. Claus, capturing the holiday spirit and celebrating the season.
Since its inception, Doherty Enterprises-owned Applebee’s restaurants have generated more than $5.2 million through their Toys for Tots fundraising campaign to benefit local communities.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella, joined by Lance Corporal Richards, loads bags of toys generously donated by Musella into his car for the Toys for Tots initiative, sharing the holiday spirit with those in need.Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella and Lance Corporal Richards proudly display a selection of toys generously donated by Musella to Toys for Tots, sharing the holiday spirit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.Applebee’s dedicated employee, Yacek Castillo, takes a well-deserved break from serving tables to share a heartfelt conversation with Santa and Mrs. Claus, adding a touch of holiday magic to the day.
I have just finished viewing the December 5th Council Agenda meeting in its entirety and several conclusions can be and should be drawn.
The Parsippany residents who sat through that multi-hour meeting are to be commended for their polite and intelligent comments and the questions they addressed to the Mayor and Town Council and the “experts” who showed up just hours before the Council planned to vote on the PILOTs.
The four Town Council members (Gragnatti, Carifi, DePierro, and Neglia) clearly and repeatedly demonstrated an astounding level of ignorance regarding the potential negative impact that PILOTs will have on current and future Parsippany residents. Whether that ignorance was due to their compulsive need to bow to Mayor Barberio’s dictates or just sheer laziness on their part is up for question.
Not once could Mayor Barberio and/or the Council member give a single example of what alternative development options had been considered other than the PILOTs. Nor could any of these elected officials articulate what if any questions or concerns they had raised during the extremely rushed process to review and approve the PILOTs before year-end and the incoming new Council.
Mr. Inglesinio, the developers’ highly paid attorney, expressed incredulity about how any citizen could not be in favor of supporting the Council and the Mayor in their rush to reward the developers with tax breaks that would span 30 years. What Mr. Inglesino failed to say was that given some additional time, a careful and independent financial and impact analysis, and a creative marketing strategy, perhaps a non-PILOT solution could be identified and implemented. Instead Mr. Inglisino, as his practice, utilized a false scare tactic implying that if the PILOTs weren’t approved then Parsippany stood to lose the pittance the developers were eagerly offering.
With the passage of the PILOTs the municipality, in the person of Mayor Barberio, will get to determine how much of the about-to-be reduced taxes the schools will receive. Given the Mayor’s recent abject failure at managing the last two budget cycles and his bankrupting of Parsippany’s utilities the Board of Education will inevitably be forced to ask Parsippany, via a referendum, for the money required to educate Parsippany children including those who will be living in the residences built by the developers. The tax-strapped Mayor’s expressed willingness to “negotiate” with the Board of Education after ignoring them throughout the PILOT review process does not bode well for Parsippany residents or students.
The absolute failure of the Town Attorney and his firm and the financial “expert” hired by the Council to protect Parsippany’s best interests was shocking. Hired just two weeks prior, the financial “expert” had virtually no impact on the negotiations with the developers. Mr. Lavery’s colleague, a development “expert,” gave a general overview of the process by which development occurs, in New Jersey but couldn’t cite a single value add that he and/or Mr. Lavary had provided to Parsippany residents. The bottom line is that Parsippany residents’ interests were completely ignored due to either the implied or direct influence of the Mayor
Mayor Barberio repeatedly and heatedly complained that “politics” was motivating anyone and everyone who disagreed with him including the dozens of Parsippany residents who spoke up at the Council meeting asking for more information and time to make a reasoned decision. It’s always somewhat bizarre to hear a politician, like Mayor Barberio, disparage his own chosen profession. One town resident suggested that Mayor Barberio was like Nero (another politician) fiddling while Rome burned. Perhaps the Emperor who thought he was wearing New Clothes is a more appropriate reference.
Finally, Councilman Musella truly distinguished himself with his knowledge, questions, and independence all of which served the residents of Parsippany. Perhaps Mayor Barberio and the other Council members will take notice of how best to serve Parsippany residents.
MORRIS COUNTY – In a case brought before the Superior County of New Jersey by Adam Kandil (Petitioner), alongside the Parsippany Municipal Clerk, Morris County Clerk, and Morris County Board of Elections (Respondents), it has come to light that the Morris County Board of Elections has failed to initiate a “Recount or Recheck” of the General Election results for the Township Council position.
On November 29, 2023, Superior Court Judge Stuart Minkowitz rejected the Morris County Board of Elections’ request to revisit the Court’s November 21 decision to “Postpone the Recount and Recheck until December 12.”
During the General Election held on Tuesday, November 9, Parsippany Council Candidate Judy Hernandez, a Democrat, initially secured the fourth position for the three open seats in the all-Republican town. However, following the tallying of provisional and last-minute mail-in ballots on November 15, Hernandez surged to third place, leading Adam Kandil by only two votes. Her victory was officially certified on November 22 by Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi.
As of the current date, the Morris County Board of Elections has yet to conclude the recount and disclose the results for the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township election held on November 9.
Judge Minkowitz also issued an order, stating, “Respondents shall maintain the impoundment of the machines and, except for the purpose of conducting the Recheck or as otherwise mandated by statute, shall refrain from altering the current status quo of the machines utilized in the Township of Parsippany’s General Election for the Office of Borough Councilman until the recount and recheck results have been officially certified.”
If Hernandez secures her victory, the Township Council will witness a Republican majority of 4-1, including a Republican mayor.
It’s worth noting that both Council President Loretta Gragnani and Council Vice President Michael dePierro previously announced their decision not to seek re-election. Gragnani, who served two council terms, and dePierro, who will step down at the end of his term this year, each made significant contributions to Parsippany’s Township Council, with dePierro’s tenure spanning an impressive four decades.
Adam Kandil, a newcomer to the political arena, is making his debut in public office. Kandil is a valued member of Parsippany’s Economic Development Committee.
Judy Hernandez, a Parsippany resident for 24 years, has a distinguished history of service, having previously served on the Parsippany Planning Board, and the Environmental Advisory Committee, and is currently an active board member for the Parsippany Child Day Care Center.
PARSIPPANY – On the evening of Thursday, December 7, America’s Future (AF) hosted an event at the Village Restaurant, featuring the theme “All I Want for Christmas is Freedom,” honoring Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella.
The mission of America’s Future, an organization established in 1995 to inspire young individuals to become engaged, respectful, and inquisitive citizens who contribute to the creation of more liberated communities, ultimately fostering fulfillment, dignity, and happiness for everyone.
Assemblyman Christian Barranco, Morris County Republican Chairwoman Laura Ali, and Justin Musella.
Over 200 people attended the event, including Assemblymen Christian Barranco and Brian Bergen, Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling, Morris County Republican Chair Laura Ali, including newly elected 24-year-old Sussex County Commissioner Jack DeGroot and newly elected Dover Councilman Sergio Rodriquez.
“America’s Future is committed to championing a rising generation of liberty-minded leaders in the Garden State and across the Northeast,” said Grant Van Eck, AF-NE Hub Manager.
Van Eck continued, “We give young people like Justin Musella, opportunities for networking, mentoring, leadership, and community engagement through a national network and extensive array of programming.”
“Musella is a dedicated Parsippany Councilman, who exemplifies true community empowerment through his commitment to keeping residents informed and engaged in local politics. His passion for public service illuminates the essence of meaningful politics – something to admire and want to emulate. Thank you, Justin,” said Dover Councilman-elect Sergio Rodriguez.
Newly elected Dover Councilman Sergio Rodriquez, Musella, and newly elected Sussex County Commissioner Jack DeGroot.
DeGroot said “Justin is a true patriot who is leading the next generation to actively get involved in government. It is my honor to attend the event hosted by America’s Future, where Justin is rightfully recognized for his well-deserved work in the community.”
The massive crowd enthusiastically applauded Musella’s speech
The highlight of the evening was the honoring of AF Member Justin Musella, a true advocate for AF’s core beliefs.” said Larry Gillheeney, AF-NE Hub Director. “Justin’s dedication to the principles of free markets, limited government, and personal responsibility exemplifies the spirit that drives our community.”
Parsippany resident Dennis Letts with Musella
Parsippany resident Dennis Letts said “Congratulations to my friend, Councilman Justin Musella, on being recognized by “America’s Future” for his bold, principled leadership in the Township of Parsippany. America’s Future is a Washington, DC organization dedicated to supporting young Americans who are driving change in their communities. This prestigious honor is well deserved and for my fellow citizens of Parsippany, change is coming and Justin will undoubtedly lead the way!”
“I had a great time at the dinner honoring my friend, Justin Musella. No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, you have to admire Justin’s passion and genuine commitment to his constituents,” commented Jonathan Cohen
Morristown’s Ryan Dougherty with Dover Councilman-Elect Sergio Rodriguez
Sam Adofo, the group’s northeast hub coordinator, said the organization strives to empower the next generation “in the liberty movement.”
Dr. Stephen Roman, MD, and Assemblyman Brian BergenJoseph Roman, Adam Kandil, and Casey Parikh extend heartfelt congratulations to Justin Musella on his well-deserved recognition.
Musella kicked off the evening with an opening statement: “I cannot thank America’s Future in particular my friends Grant and Sam enough for this award — the significance of which is not lost on me. The question that I would like to answer tonight is, what can we as individuals do to fight for freedom? Individually, we can do a lot—we can educate and persuade those of different beliefs to understand the importance that free markets, limited government, and individual responsibility play. Collectively, we can participate in the political process to support candidates and policies aligned with principles of limited government and individual freedom. The tactical focus is the context of what can be done at the local level to improve our ability to be as free as possible to pursue our objectives.”
Musella with door prize winner Rob Kusant
“We have the power to shape policies that directly impact your lives. Whether it’s decisions made by our own Township Council or School Board, these actions collectively mold the environment in which we live. This has been seen recently with the unprecedented number of people regularly coming to our Council meetings advocating against policies that by and large reward special interests at the expense of the public’s interest. Citizen involvement is crucial to ensuring any policies implemented reflect our values and respect the fundamental rights of individuals,” he continued.
Sergio Rodriguez was joined by Morris County Young Republican Chairman Christopher Paz and Attorney Jonathan Cohen at the event.Timothy Berrios and John Campbell
Musella continued “If I could ask you to remember one thing it would be that the strength of a town lies in the collective character of its people. The choices we make when nobody is paying attention shape the culture of our communities, influencing future generations and determining the course of our society. It is our responsibility, as guardians of freedom, to remain vigilant, to act with integrity, and to champion individual liberties at every opportunity. Equally as important, is to hold those accountable who get elected on this very message and then betray the trust of their constituents by reneging on these principles. In these divided times we live in however, I believe it’s a commitment to these basic values that can unite all Americans regardless of political affiliation, who all place a very high value on their freedom and their freedom to pursue their path in life.”
America’s Future offers rising generations opportunities for networking, mentoring, leadership, and community engagement through our national network and extensive array of programming.
Musella’s family provided unwavering support and cheers during the event, with Greg Lewis, Shana Lewis, Courtney Musella, Angela Musella, Joseph Musella, Beverly Pirone, and Carmine Pirone proudly by his side.Fernando Villar, Sam Adolpho, Musella, Anthony Miragliotta, Grant Van EckThe toys collected at the event will find their way into the hands of deserving children through Musella’s generous donations to Parsippany Applebee’s Toys for Tots, Morris County Republican Club Toys for Tots, and Table of Hope
PARSIPPANY – The Sewa Diwali initiative is an endeavor orchestrated by a coalition of Indian American organizations and individuals deeply rooted in Hindu values. It is a collective effort fueled by the shared belief in the mantra, “Service to Humanity is Service to Divinity.” Recognizing that the well-being of society is a responsibility shared by all, the initiative aims to nurture it with the utmost care and compassion.
This dedicated group achieved remarkable success by conducting the Sewa Diwali food drive across 32 states, encompassing over 200 townships, and involving more than 300 organizations. The volunteers who contributed to this noble cause come from diverse backgrounds, including school students, working professionals, and entrepreneurs from various walks of life. Their collective efforts have made this initiative a reality.
Locally they donated canned and dry food at Parsippany Food Pantry, Interfaith Food Pantry at the Morris Plains location, Morristown Soup Kitchen, Denville, Montville Food Pantry, and surrounding North Jersey towns with a total of 16,000 lbs of food.
The concept behind Sewa Diwali is simple yet profound: selfless service. It revolves around giving back to society during the festive season of Diwali, also known as the “Festival of Lights.” Throughout October, November, and December, residents generously donated canned non-perishable foods, aiming to provide much-needed support to underprivileged families during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons.
The participating organizations in this admirable endeavor include:
HSS – Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (Hindu Service Society)
Sewa International
BAPS
SRLC
I Love Sai
Chhapaiya Dham Temple
Chatham Indian Community
Shiv Shakti Mandir
Fairlawn Hindu Community
Mahwah Temple
Together, they have exemplified the spirit of unity, compassion, and community service, embodying the true essence of the Sewa Diwali initiative.
The arrival of Santa Claus was a moment of pure delight for children of all ages.
PARSIPPANY – Parsippany knows how to embrace the holiday spirit, and witnessed a magical start to the festive season as Santa Claus himself arrived on a fire truck to the delight of children of all ages. The air was filled with anticipation as the crowd gathered to welcome the jolly old man in the red suit.
The Parsippany High School Choir filled the air with the sweet sounds of Christmas classics, spreading holiday cheer to all who listened.
As the fire truck rolled into view, the cheers of excited children could be heard. Santa waved merrily from his perch on the firetruck, and the children couldn’t contain their joy. It was a moment that captured the essence of the holiday season – pure, unbridled happiness.
Council President Loretta Gragnani and Vice President Michael dePierro stepped forward to perform a heartwarming ceremony. Together, they lit up the magnificent Christmas trees that stood proudly, illuminating Town Hall with a warm, festive glow.
Once Santa had safely landed, Council President Loretta Gragnani and Vice President Michael dePierro stepped forward to perform a heartwarming ceremony. Together, they lit up the magnificent Christmas trees that stood proudly, illuminating Town Hall with a warm, festive glow.
With the trees now shining bright, it was time for the children to get up close and personal with Santa. The line quickly formed as eager youngsters awaited their turn for a special moment with the man of the hour. Each child had the opportunity to share their holiday wishes, and Santa, with his infinite patience and warm smile, listened attentively.
With excitement in the air, Michael Anderson sat on Santa’s lap while Lacey Anderson eagerly shared her heartfelt wish list with the jolly old man himself.
Santa had a surprise for each child, who received a thoughtful gift as a token of his appreciation.
Santa’s dedicated helpers worked tirelessly to ensure everyone had a delightful time. They skillfully served steaming hot chocolate and an array of delicious cookies, while their counterparts distributed candy canes and thoughtfully prepared gifts, all with a generous dose of holiday cheer.
The festivities continued with a delightful spread of candy canes, hot chocolate, and assorted cookies. The children sipped on warm cocoa while nibbling on sweet treats, filling the air with laughter and the unmistakable scent of the holidays.
In the heartwarming holiday scene, Council Vice President Michael dePierro, Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., and Mayor James Barberio, along with Councilman Frank Neglia, joined Santa in spreading the festive spirit. Together, they made the event even more special for everyone in attendance.
Parents and families reveled in the joy of the moment, watching their children’s faces light up with wonder and excitement. It was a scene that warmed hearts and captured the true magic of the season.
DOVER – The Dover Township Council has scheduled a special meeting for Tuesday, December 12, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting’s agenda includes the discussion of a Bond Ordinance that pertains to the acquisition of a “Pierce Triple Combination Pumper.”
The ordinance seeks to allocate $543,829 for this purpose and to grant authorization for the issuance of $517,829 in bonds or notes by The Town. These funds will contribute towards covering a portion of the total acquisition cost.
Santa Makes Grand Entrance at Lake Hiawatha Winter Fest Aboard the Lake Hiawatha Fire Truck
PARSIPPANY – The highly-anticipated Annual Winterfest 2023, hosted by The Friends of Lake Hiawatha, took place on the festive evening of Friday, December 8t, nestled within the enchanting surroundings of the Gazebo on North Beverwyck Road. This delightful event brought the community together for a memorable celebration.
The Parsippany Hills High School Choir Delights Audiences with Heartwarming Holiday Songs
Attendees had the unique opportunity to capture cherished moments with Santa himself, creating lasting memories for both young and old. Warm hearts were complemented by delicious hot chocolate, accompanied by scrumptious chocolate chip cookies and delightful candy canes, offering a true taste of the holiday spirit.
The Parsippany Hills High School Choir Delights Audiences with Heartwarming Holiday Songs.
Mayor James Barberio, accompanied by Councilmen Frank Neglia and Justin Musella, shares a festive moment alongside Santa and his cheerful helpers
Adding to the excitement, Winterfest featured an exciting raffle where lucky participants had the chance to win brand-new bicycles for both boys and girls. The event brought neighbors and friends closer together, fostering the sense of togetherness that makes Winterfest an annual highlight for Lake Hiawatha residents and visitors alike.”
Attendees had the unique opportunity to capture cherished moments with Santa himself, creating lasting memories for both young and old.Attendees had the unique opportunity to capture cherished moments with Santa himself, creating lasting memories for both young and old.
Parsippany Police Chief Richard Pantina with Mayor James Barberio
Residents and Business Owners of Parsippany,
As the Chief of Police for the Township of Parsippany–Troy Hills, I would like to address the recent crimes that have been occurring, including residential burglaries, car burglaries, and motor vehicle thefts.
Let me assure you we are working diligently on these incidents and investigating them fully. Although we cannot specifically disclose all the investigative means we are using, so as not to compromise any investigation, we are coordinating with various State and County resources to reduce criminal activity in Parsippany and apprehend these perpetrators. Additionally, we are investing in new technology for crime prevention and investigation, which we believe will greatly assist our efforts.
Be aware that these incidents are happening not only in Parsippany but across New Jersey. We share the same sentiments and frustration that other Police Departments and local governments have expressed regarding the rise in crime, which we contribute in part to Bail Reform.
In an attempt to have higher visibility, our officers have been conducting more direct patrols throughout the Township, day and night. I strongly feel that preventing these crimes needs to be handled in a cooperative effort by both the police department and the community. We have used our Social Media outlets to educate our public on crime prevention awareness and strategies, which offer the best options to consider for home and business security assessments and measures. In addition, we have offered and helped to facilitate the creation of a Neighborhood Watch Program in different areas of our Township.
If you have been victimized by any of these criminals and you feel that our Investigative Division is not immediately responding, have no doubt that our Detectives are exhausting their collaborative efforts and following up on every lead. This includes collecting information from similar incidents within Parsippany and other municipalities within our County or State and comparing the reported details.
Please continue to contact us with your concerns or to report any suspicious activity immediately by calling (973) 263-4300 or in an emergency, please dial 9-1-1.
Your Police Department and officers are here to serve you.
