Message from the Mayor

Mayor James R. Barberio

“All at once summer collapsed into fall” is how poet Oscar Wilde summed up the beginning of September. While the air may not quite be crisp yet, the longer shadows and the shortening of days lend a hint of what is to come. As we say good-bye to the languid days of summer and the unhurried passing of the clock, we say hello to the energizing burst of cooler air and the invigorating energy it brings. It seems that time starts all over again with the onset of September. September brings about a sense of clarity that makes the skies seem bluer, the air fresher and the moon brighter. It is the perfect month to just take in and enjoy before the wave ofholidays are upon us. It’s the ideal time to take a breather and just appreciate what the seasonoffers before we start carving pumpkins and turkeys.

Come September, everyone gets caught up in the excitement of a new school year starting. Evenif its been many years since you attended a class you can still recall the anticipation of seeing oldfriends and meeting new teachers. Football is the name of the game for the season and studentsand alumni all come together to support their teams. Varsity jackets are aired out, pom-poms are fluffed, band instruments are shined, and school spirit is at an all-time high. Friday nights take on a new meaning under the lights.

Corn mazes, apple cider stands, and pumpkin patches make their appearance along country roads during this time. While it is too soon to go leaf peeping, some trees are starting to show signs ofthe brilliance to come. September is a time of transition for nature and for nature to show off its vibrant beauty one last time before winter.

There is always a place to enjoy the sights and sensations of the season and various festivals make it easy to do so. Parsippany’s Fall Festival is just the place to experience the enjoyment of the times. Many of you may not know this but the Fall Festival started out in the parking lot of Town Hall with just a handful of vendors. Today it has grown to a full-fledged all-day event that brings both residents and visitors together for a day of fun, food and festivities. This year’s Fall Festival will take place a bit later in the month, on September 25th. There will be something for everyone to enjoy and there will be food aplenty. Be sure to mark your calendars for this annual event and join me in welcoming autumn and making this a September to Remember.