PARSIPPANY — Alberto Vega, a graduate of Parsippany High School, has completed an extensive Policy Analyst Fellowship with the legislative office of Assemblywoman Aura Dunn. Assemblywoman Dunn’s office is in Chester, serving the constituents of Legislative District 25 in New Jersey. Vega is also a Graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Alberto is a first-generation college student and a quiet young man. Alberto cut through the noisy political world, proving that making a difference in public office is about doing the hard work of compassion. Alberto worked diligently to contribute to the enhancement of operations and, ultimately, the services provided to the 230,000 residents of the district.
Alberto released the following statement about his time with Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn:
“I started interning for Assemblywoman Aura Dunn in October, and I have learned a tremendous amount in the past few months. This experience has given me a glimpse of what a future government career looks like.
One interesting part of my job was researching the various important subjects that concern the 25 legislative districts. I also enjoyed assisting the Assemblywoman and her staff by gathering news articles that were relevant to the district. Another responsibility I had included the opportunity to draft commemorative citations for well-deserving citizens in the area.
The longer I worked as an intern, the deeper my understanding of the district’s needs grew. At this point, I have memorized every municipality in the district.
This internship has given me months of valuable experience that will only help further my plans for a career in either the public or private sectors. I want to thank Assemblywoman Aura Dunn for giving me this opportunity. I am truly grateful for my time in her office.
I look forward to applying all that I learned in the District Office in my future.”
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany High School FTC (First Tech Challenge) team “Redbots” has made it to the state-level competition after a successful performance in the regional competition on Saturday, February 4.
The Redbots
The team was awarded the “Design Award” and was named a Finalist Alliance Award recipient, highlighting their hard work and dedication to building a strong robot game.
Throughout the year, the “Redbots” team has been committed to promoting STEM education and awareness through various outreach initiatives and mentoring of a local FLL (FIRST Lego League) team. The team’s passion for STEM is evident in their commitment to their craft, and they are now seeking support from the community to continue their efforts.
Donations to the “Redbots” FTC team are tax-deductible and can be made through their 501(c)(3) setup.
Checks can be made payable to “PHS Redbots Supporters” and mailed to 24 Midvale Avenue, Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07054. The EIN# for tax deductions is #82-5416292.
In addition to seeking support, the “Redbots” team is also looking to recruit new members for the upcoming season. It encourages graduating middle and high school students to consider joining the club. This is a great opportunity for young students to pursue their passions for STEM/Robotics and be part of a team dedicated to promoting STEM education and awareness.
The Parsippany High School FTC team “Redbots.”
The Parsippany High School FTC team “Redbots” should be congratulated on their outstanding performance at the recent competition. The team’s commitment to promoting STEM education and their passion for their craft is truly inspiring, and we wish them the best of luck as they move forward in the competition.
PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, January 18, at 4:43 p.m. Ms. Sanjna Katyal, 52, was stopped in her 2022 Tesla 3, facing west at the traffic signal (in the left straight lane) on the off-ramp of Route 287 South at the intersection of Parsippany Boulevard.
Ms. Gail Altenkirch, 74, driving a 2017 Honda CRV, was traveling north on Parsippany Boulevard, approaching the intersection of Route 287 South off-ramp and Waterview Boulevard.
Ms. Gail Altenkirch, driving a 2017 Honda CRV
A witness to the crash, Gina Simmons, was in the right straight lane on the off-ramp of Route 287 South, immediately to the right of Ms. Katyal’s vehicle. Simmons stated Katyal was stopped at the red light next to her, and both vehicles proceeded forward into the intersection when the light turned green.
Simmons stated that when Ms. Altenkirch entered the intersection perpendicularly at a high rate of speed, running the red light on Parsippany Boulevard. Katyal then crashed into the passenger side of Ms. Altenkirch, causing the vehicle to lose control and roll over multiple times, coming to rest on the side of Parsippany Boulevard.
Simmons stated that Katyal stopped briefly and slowly drove away from the crash scene, heading west on Waterview Boulevard.
Ms. Katyal was later stopped by police in Denville, stating that she didn’t see Altenkirch coming as she entered the intersection on the green light and then left the scene to pick up her son from school.
Altenkirch and her passenger both stated they did not recall the events of the crash or those leading up to it, but Altenkkirch stated before reaching the intersection, she was traveling at a high rate of speed.
Drivers’ and Witnesses’ statements and physical evidence at the scene showed that Altenkirch’s failure to observe a traffic control device and careless driving caused the crash.
McCarter’s Towing Company towed Ms. Katyal’s vehicle, and Ms. Altenkirch’s vehicle was removed from the scene by Corigilno Towing Company.
Ms. Katyal was issued a summons for (39:4-129A) Leaving the Scene of an Accident and (39:3-44) Motor Vehicles and Traffic Regulations.
Ms. Altenkirch was issued a summons for (39:4-81) Observance Traffic Signals and (39:4-97) Careless Driving.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Adam Clark investigated the accident.
PARSIPPANY — One person died, and three others were injured early Sunday morning in a two-vehicle accident on Interstate-80.
According to NJ Police Sargent Philip Curry, the early morning collision occurred at 2:41 a.m. in the westbound lanes of I-80 near mile marker 43.8.
The incident happened when a Lexus RX3 collided with a westbound Chevrolet Corvette driven by 29-year-old Luis Ramirez-Cano, of Bogota.
Ramirez-Cano was ejected in the crash and sadly died from his injuries. A passenger in the Corvette sustained unspecified injuries and was taken to Morristown Medical Center for treatment.
The driver of the Lexus sustained minor injuries but refused medical attention. The passenger of the Lexus sustained minor non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Saint Clare’s, Denville.
The crash remains under investigation.
Parsippany Focus will update this article as additional details become available.
PARSIPPANY — Supporting educational enrichment in the township, the Parsippany Education Foundation funded 14 innovative programs during the ’22-’23 school year.
Spanning robotics, life skills, science, music, and art, proposals were developed by teachers, approved by principals, and evaluated by the Foundation based on their ability to contribute to a positive, dynamic learning environment.
Parsippany High School’s two robotics teams, the Redbots, and the Techhawks, received grants funding a 3-D printer and a variety of parts to use on their robots. The 3-D printer will be used to print 3-D parts like the claw they use to pick up cones in their FIRST Tech Challenge competitions.
“Our students design these parts, and it will be wonderful to have a printer on-site for them to print out the parts right away. At our last meeting, the Redbots were the First Place Alliance Captains. Our tournament is coming up in February, and we hope to qualify for our States competition in March. Thank you, PEF, for our grants; we could not do this without your support!” said Kathy Effner, Redbots Team Advisor, and Math Department Lead Teacher.
A check for $19,880 was presented to the Parsippany Board of Education by Foundation former President Stella Gizas, along with board member Gayle Strauss, on January 5.
“The Board of Education thanks the Parsippany Education Foundation for their direct support and generosity toward our Parsippany teachers. The amazing projects being funded this year range from field trips to Science Under the Stars, One School, One Book, and many more. The teachers who submit their innovative grant ideas are to be applauded, as well as the community support of the Parsippany Education Foundation fundraisers throughout the year,” said Timothy Berrios, Parsippany Board of Education President.
“I know I speak for all of our board members when I say that we love the opportunity to review our school district staff’s innovative and creative ideas. We appreciate the time it takes to put together these grant proposals to benefit their students. It is a joy to encourage students in their educational journey by awarding these grants to our district. We feel so blessed to be able to give back to a fabulous community of educators,” said Andrew Ladas, Parsippany Educational Foundation President.
The Parsippany Educational Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization established in 1996 to enrich the opportunities and experiences of students in the Parsippany-Troy Hills School District. The Foundation has contributed over $370,000 to the district raised through private donors, its annual spring golf outing to be held on May 16, and events held throughout the year. Its Board of Directors consists of volunteers committed to developing a community of learners. For more information, the Foundation may be reached at www.PEF4Kids.com and pef4kids@aol.com.
MORRIS COUNTY — Amit Bhatt, a former Parsippany-Troy Hills resident, was convicted after a three-day trial. The married 43-year-old accountant still faces a charge of possessing child porn in Bergen County.
A Morris County jury found Amit Bhatt guilty of all charges related to an aggravated sexual assault that occurred on October 28, 2017, in Parsippany-Troy Hills Township.
The guilty verdict was reached following a three-day trial on January 27. The defendant was found guilty of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault, second-degree Sexual Assault, and third-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
A sentencing date has been scheduled for March 17 before the Honorable Ralph Amirata, J.S.C. The defendant will remain in custody until that time and was detained on Bergen County charges involving the possession of child sexual abuse material yesterday. At sentencing, the Aggravated Sexual Assault and Sexual Assault convictions are subject to the No Early Release Act (NERA), which makes the defendant ineligible for parole until he has served 85% of the sentence imposed.
As the Jessica Lunsford Act requires, the defendant must receive a sentence between 25 years and life imprisonment. He must serve 25 years or more before becoming eligible for parole on the Aggravated Sexual Assault charge.
The charges arose from an incident that occurred on October 28, 2017, in Parsippany-Troy Hills Township, wherein the defendant performed sex acts on and touched the inner thigh of an eight-year-old child. Members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes & Child Endangerment Unit investigated the incident after being notified of the victim’s disclosure by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office on January 11, 2022.
Prosecutor Carroll would like to thank and acknowledge the agencies that participated in the investigation which led to the successful guilty verdict, including the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Police Department, the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes & Child Endangerment Unit. The Prosecutor also credited the Trial Team, Assistant Prosecutor Vanessa I. Craveiro and Assistant Prosecutor Taylor Sharofsky, with their professional and dedicated service; and commended MCPO Sex Crimes & Child Endangerment Unit Detective Sergeant Lydia Negron and Detective Lamar Hagans, and Detective Jermaine Pledger of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, and all others who contributed to the investigation and successful prosecution in this case.
MORRIS COUNTY — After 18 years of service in law enforcement, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker has announced his retirement. Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, and Deputy Chief of Detectives Robert McNally honored Chief Kimker for his exemplary service and expressed their gratitude to the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office on his last day.
Deputy Chief Robert McNally, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief Christoph Kimker, and First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood
Members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Morris County Sheriff’s Office, municipal police departments, and county officials held a walk-out ceremony for Chief Kimker at the Morris County Administration Building.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “Chris Kimker has been an outstanding Chief of Detectives. My decision to appoint him to that position was based upon a long history of quality investigative work, integrity, and dedication that, by any measure, stands as a high-water mark of police professionalism. The MCPO is a better law enforcement agency because of Chris’ leadership and hard work. The Morris County Chiefs Association often remarked that Chris answered any time of day or night they called – the mark of a caring and dedicated public servant. Equally important, he has been a good man and a loyal friend to all of us and will be sorely missed. We wish him the absolute best in all his future endeavors.”
First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood said, “I have been fortunate to have been a colleague of Chief Kimker’s for almost two decades, but it has been the last two years that I have been truly honored to work beside him in Prosecutor Carroll’s administration. He has positively impacted the men and women of MCPO, and I thank him for all he has done over his long and productive career. I wish him the best in his retirement!”
Sheriff James Gannon said, “I first met Chief Kimker when he started in Morris County in 1992. He was an environmental specialist. We were co-workers when he joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in 2004. Chris was a Lieutenant when I was elected to my first term as Morris County Sheriff. He is a great investigator and a tremendous leader, but I think his best trait is being a team builder based on his genuineness. The synergetic relationship we enjoy in Morris County between my Office, the Prosecutor’s Office, and the Chiefs of Police is in no small way due to Chris’s kind demeanor and professional respect. We will all miss that but hope the next chapter is great, as it has been greatly earned!”
Mendham Township Police Chief Ross Johnson, 2023 President of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association, said, “On behalf of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association and myself, I want to wish Chief Kimker the best in his well-deserved retirement and starting the next chapter in his life. Chief Kimker has been the epitome of professionalism throughout his career and as he has ascended the ranks in the Prosecutor’s Office. I can safely say most every Chief in our Association, including myself, has worked with Chief Kimker at some point in their career and will tell you his dedication and compassion are second to none, along with his quick wit. He will be missed, and we all appreciate everything he has done for the county and assisting our departments.”
Chief Christoph Kimker Biography
Chief Christoph Kimker was raised in Mine Hill. He is an Eagle Scout and graduated from Morris Catholic High School in 1988.
He attended Seton Hall University, graduating in 1992 with a B.A. in Political Science and a Minor in US History. In 1995, he earned an M.A. in Environmental Management from Montclair State University.
In 1992, Chris was hired by the County of Morris as an Environmental Specialist, where he supervised the Environmental Services Unit. Among other responsibilities, the position included coordinating the County Environmental Health Act (CEHA), and the Morris County Hazardous Material Team.
In October 2004, Chris was hired by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office as a Detective and assigned to the Major Crimes Unit and the Arson / Environmental Crimes Unit. In June 2005, he was assigned to the Specialized Crimes Division with a supplemental assignment to the Arson / Environmental Crimes Unit. In May 2006, he was assigned full-time to the Arson / Environmental Crimes Unit. Between 2010 and 2014, Detective Kimker was assigned to investigate Arson / Environmental Crimes cases and Major Crimes cases.
In June 2013, Detective Kimker was promoted to Detective / Supervisor of the Arson / Environmental Crimes Unit. In June 2014, Detective / Supervisor Kimker was transferred to the Major Crimes Unit.
In February 2015, Detective / Supervisor Kimker was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and transferred to the Specialized Crimes Division, where he supervised the Division until August 2016. In August 2016, Sergeant Kimker was transferred to supervise the Major Crimes Unit.
In April 2017, Sergeant Kimker was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and assigned to the Specialized Crimes Division.
In August 2018, Lieutenant Kimker was promoted to the rank of Captain in charge of the Specialized Crimes Division and the Family Division.
On April 1, 2019, Captain Kimker was made Acting Chief of Detectives, and on January 24, 2021, he was sworn in as Chief of Detectives.
In addition to his regular assignments, Chief Kimker served as a member of the WMD Assessment Team, previous Team Leader and member of the Crisis Negotiation Team, and the Rapid Deployment Team. He is also an Officer Firearms Instructor. Chief Kimker has completed numerous law enforcement training programs and is a member of several law enforcement organizations.
MORRIS COUNTY — Market Street Mission served 127,013 meals and provided 41,982 nights of safe shelter to its community guests and recovery program residents in 2022, along with the Sussex County location in Newton.
Forty-two men also graduated from the mission’s addiction recovery Life Change Program last year. This program is structured to offer mission residents mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual healing as they work to rebuild their lives and rejoin their families and communities.
As a private nonprofit organization, the mission relies on the charitable support of compassionate donors to fund its work and be able to offer its services free of charge to our neighbors in need.
“I know everyone in the New Year makes resolutions trying to better themselves, and here at the Mission, we just started a new Life Change Program Class,” said Patrick Tansey, Clinical and Outreach Director at the Market Street Mission and Jersey Shore Rescue Mission.
“The men are going to take classes like Chemical Dependency and Relapse Prevention, Anger Management, Fatherhood and Manhood, Christian Doctrine, Christian Finance, and Career Skills. We are excited to start the New Year and help these men lead sober, Christian lives. We thank everyone for their donations and look forward to bringing more updates this coming year.”
Anyone who needs help or knows someone who does can visit the mission at 9 Market Street, Morristown; call (973) 538-0431 or click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority (MCMUA) will conduct four Household Hazardous Waste Disposal events in 2023. The dates are:
Saturday, May 20, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany
Saturday, June 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany
Saturday, September 16, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany
Saturday, October 21, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Pequannock Valley Park, Marvin Road in Pompton Plains
Morris County residents can drop off unwanted hazardous materials from their households. Businesses are not allowed to participate.
Reminder, electronic devices (e-waste) will no longer be accepted at MCMUA one-day household hazardous waste events. The authority advises residents to call (973) 829-8006 for information and to discuss recycling options.
Acceptable materials include: aerosol cans, asbestos, automotive fluids, driveway sealant and roofing tar, fire extinguisher, gasoline, kerosene and diesel fuel, household cleaning products, lead acid batteries, button cell batteries, lithium-ion batteries, rechargeable batteries, mercury-containing bulbs, devices, muriatic acid, oil-based paints, stains, lacquers, and varnishes, paint thinners, paint removers and solvents, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, photo chemicals, pool chemicals and propane tanks of 20 pounds or less.
Unacceptable items are: alkaline and carbon zinc batteries, business waste, compressed gas cylinders, containers larger than five gallons, empty containers, explosives, hhw generated outside of Morris County, highly reactive and unstable materials, medical waste, radioactive materials, smoke and carbon monoxide detector, unknown or unlabeled materials, used consumer electronics and water-based paint and latex paint.
For more information, call (973) 829-8006 or click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Imani Glover, 25, missed a second court appearance Monday after an initial absence on January 3, according to a statement from the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. Both appearances involved “charges relating to controlled dangerous substances, hindering and tampering,” Meghan Knab, a spokeswoman for the prosecutor’s office
Glover, of Morristown, was last seen by a family member in New York in the area of 239 West 15th Street on Wednesday, January 4, 2023, with another female. Glover has ties in East Orange, Irvington, Newark, and Harlem, NY.
Imani Glover is a 25-year-old Black female, 5 feet 3 inches in height, with brown eyes and black hair weighing approximately 160 lbs. Glover has a tattoo on her left wrist (Shantia) and the back of her neck.
On January 3, 2023, and later on January 30, Glover failed to appear for two scheduled court dates.
On January 8, 2023, Glover’s mother reported her missing to the Morristown Police Department.
The Morristown Police Department, with the assistance of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, has been diligently working on this active missing persons investigation with the assistance of outside agencies, including municipal and out-of-state law enforcement agencies.
Anyone with information regarding Glover’s whereabouts or this investigation is encouraged to contact the Morristown Police Department at (973) 538-2200 or the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Missing Persons Unit On-Call Detective through the Morris County Communications Center at (973) 285-2900. Anyone with information which may be seeking to remain anonymous can contact Morris County Crimestoppers at 1-800- 743-7433.
MORRIS COUNTY — Are you a small business in Morris County? Did you claim your free Morris Now listing? What are you waiting for?
It’s easy to claim your free listing by visiting www.morrisnow.com.
Need help? We will have a Zoom meeting on Friday, February 17, at 2:30 p.m.
The webinar is free, and you will receive a valuable guide entitled “2023 Marketing Campaign.” This guide will help you plan inexpensive local or free advertising opportunities that you may not even be aware of.
Once you register, you will receive the link for the event.
The Morris Now mobile app is more than just supporting our beloved locally-owned businesses. It’s about our entire community and the local residents making the Morris County, New Jersey area a special place to live and work daily!
All the upcoming local events, venues, news, weather, school alerts, and local push notification messages will keep you fully informed about everything in the Morris County, New Jersey area. All-in-one, easy-to-use mobile app on your phone at no cost to download.
Our strong passion is also about supporting locally owned businesses, too! We encourage you to download our local app and use it to locate and support the men and women who own local businesses in our town. By working together as a community, we can keep the local revenue from leaving the Morris County, New Jersey area by using our proximity-based technology!
Join us in making the Morris area a smarter community to live in a while creating closer relationships within our community!
Please also know that our mobile app is proudly owned and operated right here in Parsippany, New Jersey!
To download our free app, visit the Apple Store or Google Play or click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood announce the promotion of Robert McNally to Chief of Detectives of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
Chief Robert McNally is a United States Marine Corps Veteran who served as a sniper team leader in a Marine Infantry Battalion. Chief McNally completed three deployments during his military service and was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps in 1994.
Chief McNally began his law enforcement career in 1996 with the United States Customs Service. During his basic police academy training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, he received the high pistol shooter award and the top physical fitness award for his class. He made numerous arrests and seizures for federal narcotics and U.S. currency law violations as a federal officer. From 1996 through 2003, Chief McNally received numerous recognitions for his work as a federal officer, including his direct involvement in a one-million-dollar currency seizure related to narcotics smuggling.
Chief McNally is a twenty-five-year-plus veteran of law enforcement who is a graduate of the West Point Command and Leadership Program, the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association courses, a recent graduate of the Crisis Mental Health Intervention Training, and has completed numerous other supervisory and management courses.
A formal promotion ceremony was held on February 1, 2023.
PARSIPPANY — The Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) organization conducted a Yogathon(Yoga Marathon) event to encourage/promote health/fitness awareness at the PAL Youth Center on Sunday, January 29. The event’s purpose was to encourage everyone in the North Jersey area, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, faith, or nationality to participate and achieve personal goals of a healthy lifestyle.
“Yoga for Health; Health for Humanity – Yogathon” event was participated by more than 100+ people (including children). Where all the participants did continuous yoga (Surya Namaskar – Sun Salutation) for two hours.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio attended the inaugural event and presented a Proclamation to the organization, appreciating the health/fitness event.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella also participated in Yogathon and did yoga with everyone.
At the conclusion, Musella distributed certificates to all the participating children to encourage them to spend time on exercises and be fit/healthy actively.
Councilman Justin Musella also participated in Yogathon
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2023. Click here to view the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — Jameson Snyder is among those recognized among Dean’s List achievers at Centenary University. Madison P. Miller also received honors this past semester.
Jameson is a Morris County VoTech Senior with dual enrollment at Centenary.
Centenary University President Bruce Murphy, Ed.D., has announced the Dean’s List for the Fall 2022 semester. To achieve this honor, full-time students must earn a semester grade point average of 3.8 or above and complete a minimum of 12-semester credits.
Founded in 1867 by the Newark Conference of the United Methodist Church, Centenary University’s academic program integrates a solid liberal arts foundation with a strong career orientation. This mix provides an educational experience that prepares students to succeed in the increasingly global and interdependent world. The University’s main campus is in Hackettstown, with its equestrian facility in Washington Township.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2023. Click here to view the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — JLL Capital Markets announced that it had completed the $88 million sale of 300 Kimball, an approximate 430,000-square-foot trophy office property.
300 Kimball, an approximate 430,000-square-foot trophy office property.
JLL represented the owner, Sovereign Partners, LLC, in selling the property to Signature Acquisitions. JLL also handled the prior sale from State Farm to Sovereign Partners in 2019, in addition to having sold Signature Acquisitions to the adjacent building at 100 Kimball in 2019.
Completed in 2001 and most recently renovated in 2013, 300 Kimball is a five-story office property that is 87% leased to a variety of tenants, including anchors FM Global, Langan Engineering, embecta, and Western World Insurance/AIG.
The building is LEED Silver-certified, a recipient of the BOMA Building of the Year award, and offers tenants an outstanding variety of features and amenities such as an impressive granite façade, dramatic atrium lobbies, state-of-the-art fitness center with locker rooms and golf simulator, full-service cafeteria with expansive seating, tenant lounge/game room with after-hours grab and go food service, modern conference center, outdoor patio with putting green, electric car charging stations, walking trail and ample covered parking including a separate gated executive section.
300 Kimball Drive is situated on 9.29 acres near the intersection of Interstates 80 and 287, within a four-building, 850,000-square-foot office park called The Center of Morris County. The property benefits from strong visibility along I-80 and is considered one of the absolute best office assets in the Parsippany submarket.
The JLL Capital Markets team representing the seller was led by Senior Managing Directors Kevin O’Hearn, Jose Cruz, and Jeremy Neuer and analyst Peter Kim.
According to O’Hearn, “We’re thrilled to have assisted two long-term, highly valued clients of the firm in a single transaction, Sovereign Partners, with the successful execution of their value-add business strategy for the asset, and Signature Acquisitions with the strategic purchase of their second building in the office park. Additionally, this transaction reflects the flight-to-quality trend that we see in office space. Generally, the top assets in each submarket continue to perform well, and Parsippany is no different.”
JLL Capital Markets is a full-service global provider of capital solutions for real estate investors and occupiers. The firm’s in-depth local market and global investor knowledge deliver the best-in-class solutions for clients — investment sales advisory, debt placement, equity placement, or recapitalization. The firm has over 3,700 Capital Markets specialists worldwide, with offices in nearly 50 countries.
Space available for lease, office located at 300 Kimball Drive, Parsippany.
Available square footage 2,083 – 45,877 square feet.
PARSIPPANY — The proprietors of a popular eatery in downtown Lake Hiawatha state on their website, “Bosphorus Restaurant has been open since 1995. Everything we offer is made from scratch in our kitchen, and it’s made fresh every day. We hope that the warm, intimate atmosphere and our delicious homemade food will make your experience delightful.” That’s saying a lot; don’t say it if you can’t live up to it. I’m glad to report that based on my visit to this long-standing, family-owned and operated Turkish / Mediterranean / Middle Eastern restaurant, they can clearly back up this claim and even exceed it in many ways.
This month’s review led me to Bosphorus and my usual crew of enthusiastic foodie friends. I had always heard positive comments regarding Bosphorus, and I cannot explain why it took me so long to get here, especially since I live within walking distance. But like they say, better late than never.
Step inside, and you are immediately met with a spotlessly clean, warm, cozy, and comfortable atmosphere.
Located on North Beverwyck Road (across from the 7-Eleven), you will find this relatively small restaurant on the end of a small group of businesses. The exterior is simple but attractive and welcoming. Step inside, and you are immediately met with a spotlessly clean, warm, cozy, and comfortable atmosphere. The cute little eatery has a welcoming ambiance, with about ten tables and a capacity of 35 people.
Step inside, and you are immediately met with a spotlessly clean, warm, cozy, and comfortable atmosphere.
The ten tables are carefully situated around the room, offering comfortable spacing for diners. Tables covered with white linen tablecloths, floral Turkish table runners, sparkling glasses, small dishes, and a soft color scheme of wood and faux brick enhance the experience and set a calming mood. Wall decorations, hangings, and accents are simple, except for the large, framed picture of Turkey’s significant Bosphorus Bridge, which is the focal point of one wall. The picture of the suspension bridge is certainly appropriate since the restaurant takes its name in recognition of that bridge. It is one of three suspension bridges in Istanbul, which spans the Bosphorus strait and connects Europe and Asia. Since Faruk and Serap Sahin, owners of the establishment, fare from Istanbul, the honored photo on the wall is certainly understandable.
Server Yahya Pinar, Owner/Chef Faruk Sahin, and Patrick Minutillo.
Two large windows on the face of the building provide comfortable natural lighting, as soft music plays in the background as you peruse Bosphorus’ tantalizing menu. Our very personable and friendly server, Yahya Pinar, immediately addressed our needs as he prepared our chosen table. Service was quick, attentive, and professional. As the group looked over the lunch and dinner menus, Yahya was happy to answer any questions we may have had. By now, this group was familiar with this cuisine based on our previous visits to many of the general area’s excellent choices of Turkish/Mediterranean restaurants.
The Hummus (Mashed Chickpeas seasoned with fresh garlic, lemon, tahini, and herbs)
The menu offers a wide selection of soups, salads, appetizers, hot appetizers, entrees, combinations (lamb, chicken, or a combo of both), sautés (which require a 30-minute cooking time and includes choices of chicken, spinach, calamari, and shrimp), and desserts. Many of your traditional Turkish dishes are listed: Manti, Falafel, Kibbeh, Kebab, Adana, Gyro, Shrimp, Salmon, Bronzini (whole fish), etc., all available. Everything was appealing, and choosing one dish over another was not easy. It was decided to share a couple of appetizers before moving on to the entrees. The hummus was our starting point, with a side of flatbread, Fried Eggplant, and Shepard Salad.
Fried Eggplant
The Hummus (Mashed Chickpeas seasoned with fresh garlic, lemon, tahini, and herbs) was melt-in-your-mouth delectable. A Creamy, light, rich garlicky dip oozing with rich umami flavors, which went perfectly with the pillowy soft Turkish Flatbread. No wonder it’s a Turkish staple. The Fried Eggplant (Sliced eggplant, pan-fried in olive oil, and served with yogurt sauce), a classic Turkish appetizer, had a soft, mild, creamy texture and a fantastic earthy flavor. Our other shared appetizer was their highly praised Shepherd Salad (a mosaic of freshly chopped tomatoes, onions, green peppers, and cucumbers with red wine vinegar and olive oil and topped with feta cheese).
Shepherd Salad (a mosaic of freshly chopped tomatoes, onions, green peppers, and cucumbers with red wine vinegar and olive oil and topped with feta cheese).
The story goes shepherds would go to their farms, taking some of their daily crops, including cucumbers, tomatoes, and other delicious ingredients, and mixing them together into a salad. From then on, this common dish was named after the shepherds who made them. The salad was light and healthy, and you could clearly tell that the vegetables were as crisp and fresh as the day they were picked. The flavors of the seasonings, lemon juice, and olive oil enhanced this very tasty and refreshing appetizer.
Bosphorus Mixed Grill Platter
For an entrée, we decided to share a large Bosphorus Mixed Grill (Combination of Shish, Adana, Chicken Adana, Meatballs, Gyro, Cop Shish, and Lamb Chops). The Bosphorus Mixed Grill is a generously sized platter of food listed on the menu as a serving of three. We made a special request that it be modified to meet the needs of the five of us, and they were more than happy to accommodate our request. Our impressive and visually stunning platter of assorted delicacies arrived quickly, with abundant savory choices. The aroma of the dish itself was a treat. I should note that everything we had was beautifully plated, perfectly seasoned, and expertly prepared. Turkish cuisine is noted as always being hearty, flavorful, and unpretentious, and that was evident in this wonderful meal.
The Mixed Grill included grilled lamb chops that were sweet, juicy, and delicious; fragrant and tender shish kebab; earthy and savory Adana kebab, a spicy, long lamb mince kebab, roasted and beautifully spiced gyros; wooden skewered cop shish, a lamb shish kebab, all marinated to perfection, making every bite flavorful through and through, and perfect to go with the accompanying hot and tzatziki sauces. And all these juicy, tender, and enticing portions of assorted meats came nestled upon a bed of fluffy white rice and vegetables. A highly satisfying dish, and we all agreed, a great selection.
Kunefe
We finished our meal with a Turkish coffee. Kunefe is a classic Turkish dessert. A warm, sweet, crisp, decadent cheese-filled pastry made from shredded dough and topped with powdered pistachios. I’ve never had it before, but I would not hesitate to order it again. The coffee’s strong, bold, bittersweet taste paired well with the Kunefe and was similar to finalizing a meal with an espresso.
Server Yahya Pinar preparing Turkish Coffee
After dinner, I had an opportunity to sit down with Chef/Owner Faruk Sahin. The very personable Mr. Sahin told me that “his greatest satisfaction in owning Bosphorus is seeing his customers enjoy their food and leave his restaurant happy.
When customers leave happy, it makes me happy”! Mr. Sahin immigrated to the United States (New Jersey) from Istanbul, Turkey, in 2018, and he and his wife Serap acquired Bosphorus in 2019. He said he learned everything about the business from his predecessor, Muzaffar Elmas, whose tutelage and mentorship have maintained the same high-quality standards for the restaurant’s food and service. In fact, Bosphorus has had the same Head Chef, Mehmet Kaja, for the past 12 years.
All the dishes at Bosphorus are homemade and fresh. Their produce is sourced from local farmers’ markets every two days. Their meat is sourced regularly from a couple of different distributors, ensuring quality and freshness. As previously stated, Turkish cuisine, distinctive for its variations in tastes, is known to be inherently healthy, highly seasonal, highly nutritious, and fresh-tasting food. Bosphorus definitely hits home on all those qualities. Bosphorus provides a great dining experience, delicious food, a casual yet classy ambiance, friendly service, reasonable prices, and fresh, healthy food made with care. If you have not stopped in yet, or want to try Turkish cuisine for the first time, I recommend stopping in and giving them a try.
Aflyet Olsun! (Enjoy your Meal); Dine In – Takeout – Curbside pickup – No Contact Delivery; Halal – Vegetarian Options – Catering – Special Events. BYO – Takes Reservations-Limited Off-Road Parking.
Hours: Tuesday to Friday: 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Closed Mondays.
Bosphorus Restaurant (Turkish Restaurant) is located at 32 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha. (973) 335-9690. https://bosphorus-nj.com.
Pillowy Soft Turkish Flatbread
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2023. Click here to view the magazine.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, East Hanover Mayor Joseph Pannullo, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, and the 200 Club of Morris County announced they are hosting a Law Enforcement Night at Mennen Arena on Friday, March 3 at 7:00 p.m., with the doors opening at 6:30 p.m.
The NJ Coalition for Education and Positive Choices is rapidly becoming a household name in Morris County. Word is spreading about the many initiatives instituted by this unique, powerful group that provides the community with facts and information in the fight against drug and alcohol abuse. Everyone is quickly realizing the benefit to families when they sign on. The importance of introducing kids to new activities and promoting substance-free events to keep them occupied (such as sports, exercise, career days, teen dances, and activities with law enforcement) is of paramount concern when it provides ways to uphold a child’s self-esteem. The Coalition is a proactive team comprised of elected officials, law enforcement, educational leaders, and concerned citizens who are up to date on the latest crazes and abuses plaguing our children.
Join officers and police departments from all over the state at the Coalition’s Annual Law Enforcement Night. At this event, youngsters get to see firsthand how law enforcement officers positively influence our community. Law Enforcement Night has been known to introduce and further develop these relationships, often providing career opportunities for teens who might not have considered such a path. Too often, we only interact with law enforcers and first responders on our worst day. This is a great opportunity to interact with our law enforcement officers and first responders on a very good day.
The equipment on display at this event is known to even awe adults. Never will one see such an array of machinery like this at one location. Kids can see the Morris County Hope Van, peruse ambulances, and emergency vehicles of every shape and size, wear riot gear, try on handcuffs and commingle with the law enforcement community in a fun atmosphere.
The important aspect to remember here is that law enforcement is trained to make these kids feel safe and important. Confidence and self-esteem go a long way in helping a child say no to his peers when the time arises.
PARSIPPANY — The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills (WCPTH) held its Seventh Annual Spelling Bee at Parsippany Hills High School auditorium on Friday, January 13.
Twenty-five fifth-grade students representing all ten of the Parsippany Elementary Schools participated in the Spelling Bee. Enthusiastic parents, family members, and teachers watched the students as they approached the microphone to spell each word.
Melissa Kuzma, Director of Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System, William Westhoven, a Gannett NJ Daily Record reporter, and Dr. Matthew Thompson, Parsippany Hills High School Principal.
Judging the event were Melissa Kuzma, Director of Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System, William Westhoven, a Gannett NJ Daily Record reporter, and Dr. Matthew Thompson, Parsippany Hills High School Principal.
Club member and Pronouncer Marianne Burke
Mary Ann Coyne, WCPTH club member and chairman of the Seventh Annual Spelling Bee, was the Moderator and club member Marianne Burke was the Pronouncer.
After 29 nail-biting rounds, a winner was declared. The winning word was “addition!”
Winners: First Place Yogita Pansare; Second Place Rishaan Sharma; and Third Place Vaikha Bheemana
Taking First Place was Yogita Pansare from Knollwood Elementary School. Rishaan Sharma from Northvail Elementary School captured Second Place. Vaikha Bheemana, from Knollwood Elementary School, came in Third Place.
All three winners are invited to participate in the New Jersey State Federated Women’s Club (NJSFWC) Highlands District Spelling Bee on Saturday, February 11, in Rockaway. The district winners will be invited to the State Championship at the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC (NJSFWC) Headquarters on Saturday, March 18, in New Brunswick.
Events like these are made possible by the various fundraising activities the Woman’s Club conducts throughout the year. Please consider supporting the club with these efforts so they can continue to support various community organizations.
The Woman’s Club will have a Tricky Tray to support our Education/Scholarship Fund and other community service projects on July 11 at the Parsippany PAL Youth Center, 33 Baldwin Road. This is their major fundraiser for the year, so please stay tuned for more information and ways you can help make this a successful event. Baskets or monetary donations are especially welcome!
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC, which are the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the country/state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. New members are always welcome! Come to the next General Meeting on Monday, February 27, to see if the club is right for you.
For more information, call Ginny at (973) 887-0336, e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com, visit on the web at www.parsippanywomansclub.org, or follow the club on FACEBOOK, Twitter, or Instagram.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2023. Click here to view the magazine.
MORRIS COUNTY — Tayfun Selen for Commissioner Re-election Campaign Kickoff attracts a large crowd at the Mansion at Mountain Lakes on Thursday, January 26.
Senators, Assemblymen, Commissioners, Mayors, Council members, and friends from almost all 39 municipalities in Morris County came out to support Tayfun in his re-election campaign.
Morris County Republican Chairwoman Laura Ali introduced Tayfun to the packed room of supporters.
The room was standing room only as Morris County Chairwoman Laura Ali introduced Tayfun Selen.Morris County Commissioner Stephen Shaw, Tayfun Selen, and Morris County Sheriff James Sheriff.Senator Joseph Pennachio, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill.Ashley Miskovitz, Delores deDePierro, Jennifer Strasle, Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Loretta Gragnani, and Randolph Economic Development member Sydney Ugalde.Morris County Commissioner Director John Krickus with Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella.Cristina Mirda, Esq and Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen.Morris County Assistant Administrator Brian T. Murray and Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling.
Sydney Ugalde, and Assemblyman Brian BergenMorris County Commissioners Stephen Shaw and Douglas CabanaFormer Assemblywoman BettyLou deCroce and Chris IlicParsippany’s Finest: Parsippany Republican Committee Chairwoman Delores dePierro, Tayfun, Parsippany-Troy Hills President Loretta Gragnani and Parsippany-Troy Hills Vice President Michael dePierroRockaway Borough Mayor Thomas Mulligan and Morris County Commissioner Stephen ShawDover resident Ilmi Bojkovic and Republican Dover Chairwoman Maria RosarioSharif Shamsudin and Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Frank NegliaMorris County Assistant Administrator Brian T. Murray and Morris County Director of Communications Vincent VitaleMount Arlington Mayor Michael Stanzilis, Rockaway Borough Mayor Thomas Mulligan and Jonathan Cohen, Esq.Dover resident Ilmi Bojkovic with Morris County Commissioner Douglas CabanaMorris County Commissioner Douglas Cabana and Senator Anthony BuccoMorris County Commissioner Douglas Cabana with Stephanie Leaver Kaulfers
Tayfun Selen was sworn in to serve a one-year, unexpired term on the board in 2020, and in November of that year, he was elected to serve a full, three-year term that began on January 4, 2021.
Commissioner Selen is Senior Vice President of Administration for Lincoln Educational Services, the leading vocational training school group in the nation, with a presence in 15 states. He is a member of the company’s Executive Team.
Before his role at Lincoln, he served as Global Director of Project Management for CB Richard Ellis, the nation’s largest real estate development company. In that role, he oversaw real estate functions for Hertz Corporation and Bank of America.
He was Vice President of New Store Development for CB Richard Ellis and served as Assistant Managing Director at Montclair State University.
Commissioner Selen is married with one daughter and has lived in Morris County for the past 23 years, including 19 years in the Chathams.
He strongly believes in community engagement and has served as a Chatham Borough Zoning Board of Adjustment member and as a Chatham Township Committeeman and Mayor.
As mayor, Commissioner Selen was responsible for reducing municipal property taxes, helping the township maintain a rare AAA credit rating, and reducing municipal spending by more than $200,000.
He is a member of the Morris County Republican Committee and Chairman of the Chatham Township Republican Committee.
He also holds a seat on the Montclair State University School of Business Advisory Board and New Jersey Board of Nursing and is President-Elect of the Madison Rotary Club.
Commissioner Selen holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture Degree from Istanbul Technical University and an MBA from Montclair State University. He achieved certification as a Six Sigma Black Belt by Rutgers University and Lockheed Martin. Commissioner Selen also is a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) accredited professional certified by U.S. Green Building Council and a certified public accountant (CPA).
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners has announced the appointment of Vincent Vitale as the county’s new Director of Communications.
Vincent Vitale
Mr. Vitale, who started January 17, is filling a vacancy created earlier this month when former Director Brian T. Murray was officially appointed Assistant County Administrator. Mr. Murray filled a post vacated by Deena Leary, who formally took the helm as Morris County Administrator earlier this month after being named by the Commissioners this past summer as the successor to retiring Administrator John Bonanni.
Before joining Morris County, Mr. Vitale was Communications Officer for Randolph Township. He facilitated township communications by working closely with the Randolph Township Council, township departments, and committees to promote local news and events. He also was Supervisor of Broadcasting and Communications for Sussex County Community College, coordinating the Communications program and managing the college’s radio and TV stations.
The Morris County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution to hire Mr. Vitale after the administration advertised the post and interviewed and evaluated many applicants this past fall.
Mr. Vitale earned a Master of Business Administration degree from William Paterson University in 2011. He holds undergraduate degrees from Rutgers College in Communication and Psychology. He resides in Andover Township with his wife and two sons.
Media outlets who need information about Morris County programs or events may contact Mr. Vitale at: vvitale@co.morris.nj.us or by calling (973) 285-6015.
Parsippany High School’s two robotics teams, the Redbots, and the Techhawks, received grants funding a 3-D printer and a variety of parts to use on their robots. The 3-D printer will be used to print 3-D parts like the claw they use to pick up cones in their FIRST Tech Challenge competitions.
MORRIS COUNTY — Are you a small business in Morris County? Did you claim your free Morris Now listing? What are you waiting for?
All three winners are invited to participate in the New Jersey State Federated Women’s Club (NJSFWC) Highlands District Spelling Bee on Saturday, February 11, in Rockaway. The district winners will be invited to the State Championship at the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC (NJSFWC) Headquarters on Saturday, March 18, in New Brunswick.
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC, which are the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the country/state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. New members are always welcome! Come to the next General Meeting on Monday, February 27, to see if the club is right for you.
