Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Home Blog

The Assassination of the Commercial Marketby COVID-19

PARQ is one of the many residential properties formerly in the Lanidex Office Complex

PARSIPPANY — The residual effects of COVID -19 are still negatively affecting the commercial market. During the three-year period from March 2020 to May 2023 most employees were forced to work from home. The pandemic forced business meetings to be held virtually through multiple online platforms. In the years leading up to COVID-19, many real estate professionals and appraisers predicted a virtual workforce, but COVID-19 seemed to make it occur overnight. Due to this, many office buildings remained unoccupied, and some have already been demolished for apartments and warehouse buildings.

Prior to COVID-19, Parsippany-Troy Hills Township had a very active 12,000,000 square feet of office space, second only to the City of Newark, with many companies having their corporate headquarters located in Parsippany. During the last two years, 20 office buildings containing over 3,000,000 square feet of office space were scheduled or already have been demolished. One of these buildings, 8 Wood Hollow Road, was recently converted into a 101-room boutique hotel โ€“ Troy Hotel. In addition, over 2,000 new luxury apartments including PARQ, The Lexica, The Lawrence, District 1515, Ballentine Greens and Avalon Bay have either been completed or are under construction on vacant sites where office buildings once stood. There are seven warehouse buildings containing over 1,100,000 square feet, that are also planned or nearing completion on sites previously used as office space. There is even a Topgolf under construction which is scheduled to open June 2026, on Route 46 East where two office buildings once stood. In addition, over the last 12 months the Township Council approved numerous properties to be โ€œIn Need of Redevelopmentโ€, eight of which were buildings containing over 600,000 square feet of office space.

This reduction in office space has also had a direct effect on the hotel market. With most meetings now being held virtually, in-person meetings have been reduced significantly, therefore there is less reason for business travelers to rent hotel rooms. Hotel occupancy rates have seen an increase since 2020 but they are still lower than preโ€“COVID-19 occupancy rates.

During the past year many companies have been requiring their employees to Return-To-Work (RTW). Some private companies are also beginning a hybrid schedule, with employees working 3 to 4 days in the office and one or two days from home. As of today, most New Jersey State office employees are required to work three days in the office and two from home. Companies like AT&T, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Tesla, Amazon, Home Depot, PNC Bank and others are going a step further requiring their employees to return to the office for the full five-day work week. Company executives feel that a return-to work policy will help boost employee productivity, while also allowing longer term employees the chance to mentor new employees. This new work schedule will eventually have a positive effect on the office market.

During COVID-19 (March 2020 to May 2023) the retail market was also hit hard since most of the retail shopping was done online. Many regional malls have already been forced to close and many more are having problems. This has led to the rise in the warehouse market, which explains why so many new warehouse buildings are being built. Major retail companies use local warehouses to store popular inventory closer to consumers. This is where the term โ€œLast mile Deliveryโ€ came from. Some warehouses are being branded as Modern Logistic Facilities. They begin as National warehousing, then Regional warehousing and finally Urban warehousing which are located near consumers for the final delivery point. Many retailers are now guaranteeing overnight delivery, so it is very important that they have storage facilities in close proximity to consumers. New planned or under construction warehouse buildings, located in Parsippany, having a total square footage of over 1,114,000 are listed below on sites where office buildings are listed below on sites where over 1,101,000 square feet of vacant office buildings once stood.

1 Hilton Court was a 172,000 square foot office building constructed in 1990 and was occupied by Diachii Sanko pharmacy company. It has been demolished, and a new 122,664 square foot warehouse building is nearing completion to be occupied by US Auto Force.

7 Campus Drive was a 154,395 square foot office building constructed in 1982 and was occupied by Nabisco Brands in the 1990โ€™s. It has now been demolished for a new 128,150 square foot warehouse building.

9 Sylvan Way was a 60,111 square foot office building constructed in 1983. It has been demolished for a new 67,219 square foot warehouse building.

3 Century Drive was a 71,941 square foot office building constructed in 1981. It has been demolished for a new 64,800 square foot warehouse building.

8 Lanidex Plaza was a 56,230 square foot office building constructed in 1980 and was previously occupied by Silox. It has been demolished for a new 140,031 square foot warehouse building.

169 Lackawanna Avenue was a 256,750 square foot office building constructed in 2001 and was originally occupied by New York Life Insurance. It has been demolished for a new 281,198 square foot warehouse building.

4 Wood Hollow Road is a 329,940 square foot office building constructed in 1980 that was granted approval to demolish the building and build a new 310,168 square foot warehouse building.

In Parsippany-Troy Hills Township there have been a few bright spots in the office market with companies leaving older office buildings and moving into office buildings that offer employee amenities such as fitness centers, cafes etc. This trend is known as renovation driven leasing. These moves have accounted for the recent leasing of over 330,000 square feet of office space.

Some examples of these are:

8 Sylvan Way – B & G Foods leased 31,000 square feet and Day Pitney leased 56,000 square feet
3 Sylvan Way – Acrisure Insurance leased 42,800 square feet
5 Sylvan Way – Porzio, Bromberg, & Newman leased 39,600 square feet.
4 Campus Drive – Einhorn, Barbarito, Frost & Botwinik leased 26,700 square feet and Summit Financial expanded their office area to a total occupancy of 42,000 square feet.
1 Sylvan Way – PBF Holding Company expanded their lease to include a total of 69,200 square feet
9 Entin Road โ€“ Provident Bank leased 23,000 square feet.

Other highlights include:

1269 Route 46 – a new 67,000 square feet Topgolf facility is scheduled to open in June of this year.
8 Wood Hollow Road – was once a 50,700 square-foot office building and it has now been converted into a 101-room boutique hotel to be branded as Troy Hotel by Wyndham.
6A Sylvan Way โ€“ a 100,000 square foot Lifetime athletic club is currently under construction is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2027.

Within the 25 square mile area of the Township, major highways intersect throughout the Township including Interstate 80, Interstate 287, Route 46, Route 10, Route 202 and Route 53. The Township offers easy access to major highways for companies looking to move to Parsippany -Troy Hills which has resulted in recent commercial growth.

Cassese, who has more than 47 years of experience in tax assessment and real estate appraisal, currently serves as the Tax Assessor for Parsippany-Troy Hills Township.

The Property Cleanup Problems Businesses Notice After Heavy Storm Seasons

0
Photo by Fazeel PH on Unsplash

Heavy storm seasons rarely affect properties in just one obvious way. While fallen branches, flooding, and visible debris usually get immediate attention, many businesses begin noticing longer-term cleanup and maintenance problems weeks after storms have already passed. Dirt accumulation, standing water, drainage blockage, surface residue, and moisture exposure often continue affecting commercial properties long after operations return to normal.

The challenge becomes more serious when storms arrive repeatedly within a short period. Parking lots, loading zones, walkways, exterior walls, and service areas often collect layers of mud, algae, oil runoff, and debris that gradually become harder to manage over time. Businesses that delay cleanup frequently discover that smaller storm-related problems quietly develop into larger maintenance costs later.

Storm Debris Often Creates Hidden Surface Problems

Storms push dirt, leaves, trash, sand, and environmental debris into areas that normally stay relatively clean during regular weather conditions. Parking lots, sidewalks, loading docks, and drainage channels usually experience the heaviest accumulation because runoff naturally carries debris toward lower-traffic sections of the property.

Once buildup dries onto surfaces, cleanup becomes far more difficult. Mud residue hardens, organic material traps moisture, and drainage systems begin slowing down during future rainfall. Businesses handling larger exterior cleanup projects after severe weather sometimes bring in equipment like a pressure washer galveston tx service when storm residue spreads across large commercial surfaces that standard maintenance routines cannot handle efficiently.

Without thorough cleanup, these surfaces often continue deteriorating long after the visible debris disappears.

Standing Water Usually Causes Problems Beyond Flooding

Even when major flooding does not occur, standing water often creates long-term property issues after repeated storms. Moisture trapped around concrete, asphalt, loading areas, and exterior equipment gradually weakens surfaces while increasing the likelihood of staining, erosion, algae growth, and drainage failure.

The issue becomes more noticeable around poorly sloped parking lots, clogged runoff areas, and commercial entryways where water repeatedly settles after heavy rain. Businesses may initially focus on removing visible water while overlooking the residue and moisture left behind beneath the surface.

Over time, repeated water exposure usually accelerates wear across heavily used exterior spaces, especially when storm seasons continue for several consecutive months.

Exterior Walkways Become Harder to Maintain

Photo by Alexander Fastovets on Unsplash

Walkways and high-traffic areas often reveal storm-related cleanup problems first. Dirt, algae, wet leaves, and runoff residue create slippery surfaces that continue affecting the property long after storms end. Even small amounts of buildup become more dangerous once repeated moisture exposure allows surfaces to stay damp for extended periods.

Businesses that maintain cleaner pedestrian areas throughout storm seasons usually reduce long-term surface wear while making daily maintenance easier overall. In some commercial properties, reusable products like SweepScrub gradually become part of routine cleanup setups because staff can quickly manage wet residue, tracked dirt, and recurring surface messes without constantly replacing disposable supplies.

Consistent cleanup often prevents these smaller storm-related problems from spreading into larger maintenance concerns later.

Drainage Systems Often Reveal Maintenance Weaknesses

Heavy storm seasons expose drainage problems that may have gone unnoticed during normal weather conditions. Gutters, runoff channels, parking lot drains, and exterior water pathways frequently become blocked by leaves, mud, and debris carried across the property during severe rain.

Once drainage slows down, water begins pooling in areas not designed to handle prolonged moisture exposure. This creates additional stress on surrounding pavement, landscaping, concrete, and entry points throughout the property.

The longer drainage problems remain unresolved, the more likely it becomes that future storms will create increasingly expensive cleanup and repair work across larger sections of the property.

Moisture and Dirt Usually Spread Into Operational Areas

Storm-related cleanup issues rarely stay limited to exterior spaces alone. Dirt, mud, moisture, and debris often get tracked into warehouses, commercial entrances, maintenance areas, and shared workspaces throughout the day after severe weather passes.

This creates additional strain on floors, equipment, storage areas, and daily cleaning routines because residue continues spreading even after exterior surfaces appear manageable again. Businesses operating in coastal or high-rainfall regions often notice these issues repeatedly during extended storm seasons where outdoor conditions remain unstable for weeks at a time.

Without consistent cleanup systems, operational spaces gradually become harder to maintain because exterior conditions continuously affect interior work areas as well.

Delayed Cleanup Usually Increases Long-Term Costs

One of the biggest problems businesses face after heavy storm seasons is waiting too long to address surface residue, moisture buildup, and drainage issues. Mud hardens, algae spreads, stains deepen, and trapped moisture continues affecting surfaces even when the property appears functional from a distance.

Small cleanup delays often create larger maintenance costs because environmental stress continues developing beneath the surface. Parking lots wear down faster, walkways become harder to restore, drainage systems clog more severely, and exterior surfaces require more aggressive cleaning later.

Storm damage rarely comes only from the weather itself. In many cases, the long-term costs businesses face develop from the cleanup problems that remain untreated after the storms have already passed.

The Maintenance Problems That QuietlyDisrupt Daily Business Operations

0
Photo by Deliberate Directions on Unsplash

Many businesses focus heavily on major operational risks while overlooking the smaller maintenance issues that slowly interrupt daily workflow over time. Equipment may continue functioning, employees may keep adapting to recurring inconveniences, and offices may still appear operational on the surface, but hidden maintenance problems often create long-term inefficiencies long before serious breakdowns occur.

The challenge is that operational disruptions rarely begin with dramatic failures. More often, they develop gradually through neglected supplies, inconsistent upkeep, aging equipment, cluttered workspaces, and delayed repairs that quietly affect productivity every day. Small maintenance habits usually shape operational stability much more than businesses initially expect.

Office Equipment Problems Often Build Gradually

Printers, scanners, copiers, routers, and office devices typically continue functioning long after early warning signs appear. Businesses often ignore slower printing speeds, inconsistent output, paper jams, and rising supply costs because operations still technically continue without immediate interruption.

The issue becomes more noticeable once maintenance delays start affecting workflow consistency across multiple departments. Employees spend extra time troubleshooting equipment, replacing cartridges, restarting devices, or finding temporary workarounds during busy periods.

In offices where printing remains part of daily operations, discussions about compatibility and long-term supply efficiency sometimes lead people toward topics like Sell Toner after recurring printer issues begin creating unnecessary operational slowdowns.

Small equipment frustrations rarely seem urgent individually, but repeated interruptions gradually reduce overall productivity across the workplace.

Exterior Maintenance Problems Often Affect Operations Indoors

Businesses sometimes underestimate how much exterior conditions influence daily operations inside the facility itself. Dirt buildup, moisture, blocked walkways, drainage issues, and neglected service areas often create additional maintenance pressure that spreads into operational spaces over time.

This becomes especially noticeable around loading zones, warehouse entrances, maintenance areas, and high-traffic exterior surfaces where residue and debris accumulate throughout the year. In larger facilities, businesses managing extensive outdoor cleanup routines may eventually work with providers in places like San Antonio, TX when exterior buildup becomes difficult to control through standard maintenance methods alone.

Poor exterior upkeep often creates operational inefficiencies indoors as dirt, moisture, and debris continue moving throughout shared workspaces during daily activity.

Delayed Repairs Usually Create Larger Workflow Disruptions

Photo by Coworking Macherzentrum Toggenburg on Unsplash

One of the biggest operational problems businesses face is postponing small repairs because systems still appear functional. Loose fixtures, worn equipment, inconsistent airflow, damaged surfaces, lighting issues, or aging office hardware often remain untreated until the problem becomes impossible to ignore.

The difficulty is that employees gradually adapt their workflow around these issues instead of resolving them early. People avoid certain equipment, repeat tasks manually, spend extra time troubleshooting, or create temporary solutions that eventually become part of daily operations.

Over time, these adjustments quietly reduce efficiency because normal workflow becomes built around avoidable maintenance problems rather than smooth operational systems.

Supply Management Problems Often Increase Daily Friction

Operational disruptions frequently come from supply organization rather than equipment failure alone. Paper products, printer supplies, cleaning materials, maintenance tools, packaging supplies, and replacement inventory often become harder to track once storage systems stop remaining consistent.

Employees may spend unnecessary time searching for materials, ordering duplicate inventory, or interrupting workflow because essential supplies are unavailable when needed. These delays may appear minor individually, but repeated interruptions across multiple teams gradually affect larger operational performance.

Businesses usually notice the issue only after clutter, disorganization, and inconsistent restocking begin slowing routine tasks throughout the workday.

Maintenance Gaps Can Affect Employee Focus

Work environments influence productivity more than many businesses realize. Poor lighting, inconsistent temperatures, dirty shared spaces, noisy equipment, neglected break rooms, and cluttered workstations all contribute to daily frustration that gradually affects employee focus and morale over time.

The problem is rarely dramatic enough to trigger immediate concern. Instead, discomfort slowly becomes normalized throughout the workplace until employees begin viewing operational inefficiencies as part of the regular work environment.

Businesses that maintain cleaner, more functional workspaces often reduce small daily frustrations that quietly interrupt concentration and workflow consistency across teams.

Small Operational Problems Usually Become Expensive Later

Many maintenance-related disruptions remain manageable when addressed early through routine upkeep and consistent organization. However, once problems spread across equipment, workflow systems, storage areas, and facility conditions simultaneously, businesses often face much larger operational costs than expected.

Daily business operations depend heavily on small systems functioning consistently behind the scenes. When maintenance routines become inconsistent, operational strain gradually spreads across departments until efficiency declines become impossible to ignore.

Most workplace disruptions do not begin with one major failure alone. More often, they grow slowly through smaller maintenance problems businesses assumed could wait a little longer before needing attention.

What People Often Overlook When Trying DIY Beauty Treatments at Home

0
Photo by Milky Way Lashes on Unsplash

At-home beauty treatments have become far more common as people look for convenient ways to manage grooming, skincare, lashes, and hair maintenance without constantly scheduling appointments. Social media tutorials, online product recommendations, and step-by-step videos make many beauty routines appear simple enough to handle independently from home. While some DIY approaches can work well with patience and proper preparation, many people underestimate how much maintenance, consistency, and technique are actually involved.

The biggest problems usually do not appear immediately. Instead, small mistakes tend to build gradually over time through improper product use, rushed application, poor sanitation habits, or unrealistic expectations about results. Many beauty routines require far more upkeep behind the scenes than short online tutorials suggest, especially when treatments involve delicate areas like hair, lashes, or skin.

Cleanliness Matters More Than Most People Expect

One of the most overlooked parts of DIY beauty routines involves sanitation. Brushes, applicators, lash tools, pillowcases, towels, and storage containers can all affect results when cleaning habits become inconsistent. Even well-applied beauty treatments may not last properly if surrounding maintenance is ignored.

This becomes especially noticeable with lash routines, where buildup and improper cleaning can quickly affect appearance and comfort. Guides from TAD Beauty are useful because maintenance plays such a major role in how long at-home lash applications remain manageable between touch-ups. Many people focus heavily on application while paying far less attention to the daily upkeep required afterward.

Hair Care Routines Usually Need More Patience

Hair treatments are another area where people often expect fast visible results without fully considering long-term consistency. Heat styling, protective routines, moisture balance, washing frequency, and nighttime habits all influence how healthy hair remains over time.

This becomes particularly important for textured and curly hair types, where maintenance routines may require different products and handling techniques than people are used to. Many beginners exploring textured hair maintenance spend time reading guides from Rennora Beauty while learning how moisture retention, washing schedules, and gentler styling habits affect long-term hair health much more than quick cosmetic fixes.

Social Media Often Compresses Reality

Photo by Atikh Bana on Unsplash

Short-form beauty content tends to simplify routines that actually require practice, precision, and maintenance behind the scenes. Treatments that appear quick online may involve multiple failed attempts, professional corrections, or hours of upkeep that are edited out of final videos.

This can create unrealistic expectations for people trying complicated techniques at home for the first time. Lash applications, bleaching, chemical treatments, and layered skincare routines often look much easier on camera than they feel in real life without prior experience.

Product Overuse Creates Avoidable Problems

Many DIY beauty mistakes happen because people assume using more product automatically creates better or faster results. Overloading lashes with adhesive, applying too many hair products at once, or layering strong skincare ingredients together can easily create irritation or uneven outcomes.

Simpler routines usually become easier to maintain consistently over time. Products also tend to perform better when people understand their intended purpose rather than combining multiple treatments impulsively during experimentation.

Maintenance Often Matters More Than the Initial Treatment

A beauty routine may look great immediately after application while still becoming difficult to maintain over the following days. Hair dryness, lash shedding, product buildup, and irritation often develop later when aftercare routines are inconsistent.

People who achieve the best long-term results at home usually focus heavily on maintenance habits rather than constantly changing products. Consistent washing schedules, gentle handling, proper storage, and realistic upkeep routines often matter more than dramatic one-time treatments.

DIY Beauty Works Best With Realistic Expectations

At-home beauty routines can absolutely become part of practical self-care and personal maintenance when approached carefully. At the same time, many treatments require more patience, organization, and consistency than online tutorials initially suggest.

People who approach DIY beauty with realistic expectations usually experience fewer frustrations over time. Understanding maintenance requirements, learning proper techniques gradually, and building manageable routines often creates better results than rushing toward dramatic transformations after watching a few short videos online.

What People Notice After Sticking With Major Diet Changes for a Few Weeks

0
Photo by Brooke Lark on Unsplash

Major diet changes usually feel exciting at the beginning. People often start new routines with strong motivation, detailed meal plans, and clear expectations about how quickly they will feel different. The first several days tend to focus heavily on food choices themselves, but after a few weeks, many individuals begin paying closer attention to the broader physical and lifestyle changes happening around those routines.

What surprises many people is that the most noticeable differences are not always dramatic weight changes alone. Energy levels, sleep quality, cravings, daily structure, recovery habits, and overall comfort often become much more important than the number on a scale after the initial adjustment period passes.

Daily Energy Patterns Usually Become More Noticeable

One of the first things people often pay attention to after several weeks of dietary changes is how their energy fluctuates throughout the day. Some individuals notice fewer crashes during afternoons, while others become more aware of how certain foods previously affected focus, motivation, or overall consistency during busy schedules.

The adjustment period itself can feel unpredictable at first because the body is adapting to different eating patterns, meal timing, and nutritional intake. During this phase, many people start searching questions like carnivore diet how long to see results while trying to understand whether their experience matches what others typically notice after several weeks of maintaining major dietary changes.

For many people, consistency becomes more important than chasing immediate dramatic results once the initial excitement begins settling into everyday routine.

Sleep and Recovery Habits Often Shift Too

Diet changes frequently influence sleep patterns more than people expect. Some individuals notice deeper sleep, while others become more aware of how late meals, sugar intake, caffeine habits, or inconsistent eating schedules previously affected nighttime rest.

As routines stabilize, recovery habits also tend to become part of the broader wellness conversation. People who begin paying closer attention to food quality often gradually extend that mindset into relaxation, stress management, and physical recovery practices during the week.

In homes where wellness-focused routines continue expanding beyond nutrition alone, setups involving leil saunas create more intentional recovery environments after workouts, stressful workdays, or physically demanding schedules.

The longer people maintain structured habits, the more connected different parts of wellness routines often become.

Cravings and Food Awareness Usually Change Gradually

Photo by Louis Hansel on Unsplash

Many individuals notice that cravings shift noticeably after several weeks of consistent eating patterns. Foods that once felt difficult to avoid may become less appealing, while simpler meals often start feeling more satisfying than they initially did during the first days of adjustment.

This change rarely happens overnight. In many cases, people become more aware of eating habits simply because they are paying closer attention to routine consistency for the first time in a while. Structured meal timing and reduced impulsive eating often make daily food decisions feel less mentally exhausting over time.

The psychological side of major diet changes sometimes becomes just as noticeable as the physical side after enough consistency begins building week after week.

Social Routines Often Become More Complicated

One of the less discussed parts of major dietary changes is how they affect social routines. Dining out, traveling, family gatherings, work lunches, and spontaneous plans often require more planning once eating habits shift significantly from previous routines.

Some people adapt easily, while others realize how much daily social interaction revolves around convenience foods and flexible eating schedules. Over time, many individuals begin developing routines that allow them to maintain consistency without feeling isolated from normal social situations entirely.

The people who maintain larger lifestyle changes long term are often the ones who find realistic balance rather than trying to approach every situation perfectly.

Physical Changes Usually Feel More Gradual Than Expected

Many people begin major diet changes expecting dramatic visible transformations within a very short time. In reality, noticeable physical changes often develop more gradually than social media trends or online testimonials suggest.

Energy consistency, reduced bloating, improved digestion, and steadier routines frequently become noticeable before major visual differences appear. Some weeks may feel highly productive while others seem slower or less predictable, especially during larger dietary adjustments.

This gradual progression is often why people eventually shift focus away from immediate short-term results and start paying more attention to how sustainable the overall routine feels in everyday life.

Long-Term Consistency Usually Matters More Than Intensity

After several weeks, many individuals begin realizing that major wellness changes depend less on extreme short-term motivation and more on whether routines remain manageable during normal life. Sleep schedules, work stress, travel, family responsibilities, and social events all affect how realistic long-term dietary habits actually become.

The people who maintain meaningful changes over time are often the ones who adapt routines gradually instead of treating wellness as a temporary challenge with a strict finish line. Once major diet changes become integrated into everyday lifestyle rather than constant self-discipline, the overall experience usually starts feeling far more sustainable long term.

Honoring Those Who Served

0

PARSIPPANY — As Americans gather with family and friends this Memorial Day weekend, communities across the nation are taking time to pause and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States.

In Parsippany and throughout Morris County, Memorial Day ceremonies, veterans tributes, and patriotic displays serve as powerful reminders that freedom is never free. American flags line streets, veterans organizations gather at local memorials, and residents unite to honor those who gave their lives defending our nation.

This yearโ€™s tributes are especially meaningful as new community initiatives continue to preserve the stories and legacies of local heroes. One such effort is the growing Hometown Heroes Banner Program led by Sanjana Medapati, a graduate of The Academy for Mathematics, Science & Engineering. Inspired by her brother attending the United States Military Academy, Sanjana launched the initiative as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project to publicly recognize veterans throughout Parsippany.

The banners, will be displayed along North Beverwyck Road proudly feature veteransโ€™ names, branches of service, and years of duty. The project has quickly become a visible symbol of gratitude and remembrance within the township.

โ€œIt’s important that we, as a community, never forget their contributions and continue to honor their legacy,โ€ said Medapati.

Among the local heroes remembered this Memorial Day is Sergeant Derek McConnell, a Parsippany resident and United States Army soldier who was severely wounded while serving in Afghanistan in 2011. Despite catastrophic injuries suffered during combat operations in Kandahar Province, McConnell became an inspiration to many through his courage, determination, and unwavering spirit. He later received the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for heroism. McConnell passed away in 2013 due to complications from his injuries, but his legacy continues to live on throughout the Parsippany community.

Memorial Day traces its origins to the years following the Civil War and was officially declared a federal holiday in 1971. Today, it remains one of the nationโ€™s most solemn observances โ€” a day dedicated not to celebration, but to remembrance.

As residents attend ceremonies, place flags on graves, or simply take a quiet moment of reflection, Memorial Day serves as an opportunity to honor those who never returned home and to support the families who continue to carry their memories forward.

Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Click here to view Parsippany Heroes

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, June 2026. Click here to view the magazine.

County College of Morris celebrates Class of 2026 at 57th Commencement Ceremony

0
County College of Morris celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026 during its 57th Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, May 21. Keynote speaker Paul Di Maio, President and Chief Executive Officer of Delta Dental of New Jersey and Connecticut, joined CCM President Anthony J. Iacono in congratulating graduates on their accomplishments.

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026 during its 57th Commencement Ceremony at the William G. Mennen Sports Arena in Morristown on Thursday, May 21. The ceremonyย commemoratedย the awardingย of associate degrees and certificates of achievement toย nearly 1,100ย graduates.โ€ฏโ€ฏย 

Graduates were encouraged to embrace resilience, lifelong learning and leadership as they begin their next chapter. Commencement keynote speaker Paul Di Maio, President and CEO of Delta Dental of New Jersey and Connecticut, reflected on the importance of perseverance, noting that success is built not only on talent, but on the ability to move forward through challenges and setbacks.  

โ€œYour degree today proves you have the talent; your time here at CCM has proven you have the endurance,โ€ said Di Maio. โ€œYour completion of the rigors of these studies prove you have the grit.โ€  

CCMโ€™s Board of Trustees, Morris County Board of County Commissioners, CCM President and CCM Cabinet members at the collegeโ€™s 57th Commencement Ceremony.

Di Maioโ€™s remarks centered on themes of momentum, personal growth and human-centered leadership, urging graduates not to allow fear of failure to prevent them from pursuing career opportunities. โ€œWe either succeed or we learn,โ€ said Di Maio, as he advised the graduates to view obstacles as opportunities for growth. โ€œTo be successful in life, you only have to get up one more time than youโ€™ve been knocked down.โ€  

As so many graduates and employers are navigating questions about AI and the future of work, Di Maio reassured the class. โ€œAI can calculate, but it cannot lead. It can provide an answer, but it cannot provide the judgment, the empathy or the soul that you bring to the table.โ€ 

CCM President Dr. Anthony J. Iacono delivered remarks, congratulating the graduates and reflecting on the impact and transformative role of community colleges. He noted that CCM is โ€œa uniquely American institution that exists to change lives and strengthen communities.โ€ He acknowledged that community colleges across the nation serve students from all walks of life, from valedictorians and Veterans to career changers, providing a great education without great debt that leads to great careers. โ€œOur more than 50,000 alums stand out for excellence in their professions,โ€ said Iacono. 

As part of CCMโ€™s tradition, Iacono highlighted numerous Class of 2026 graduates who have inspiring and compelling stories. He noted, โ€œtheir hard work, perseverance and unwillingness to give up on their dreams has produced significant success.โ€ 

Sebastian Perez Brid, of Wharton, continued a family tradition at CCM, having joined his father and sister as alumni. A highly engaged student leader, he served as president of the Association of Business Graduates, Business Society and CCM Film Society. Perez Brid will continue his studies in business at Montclair State University and serve as CCMโ€™s next Alumni Trustee. 

Christina Alvarado, of Dover, balanced full-time work, family caregiving and her studies in criminal justice at CCM, while volunteering in the community and teaching American Sign Language. She was selected by Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn for a fellowship supporting women interested in government and public service and will continue her studies in criminal justice at Rutgers University. 

Emily Piser, of Budd Lake, is a United States Army Veteran who served during Operation Inherent Resolve with the medical support team. She earned her degree in Business Administration and was actively involved in CCMโ€™s Veterans Resource Center. She will continue her education at Centenary University to pursue her bachelorโ€™s degree. 

Nicholas Schreiber, of Wharton, is a nationally ranked athlete who pivoted to entrepreneurship during the COVID-19 pandemic and built a successful real estate business before enrolling at CCM. He has excelled academically, earning Deanโ€™s List honors and membership in honor society Phi Theta Kappa, and has been accepted to multiple four-year institutions to continue his education in business. 

Dave Joseph, of Roselle, earned his degree in Exercise Science from CCM after initially being recruited to play Division I basketball in Texas before the COVID-19 pandemic brought him back home. At CCM, he helped lead the menโ€™s basketball team to the 2024 District Championship. Joseph will continue his studies at Kean University to pursue a career in physical education and physical therapy. 

A. J. Sweeney, of Flanders, graduated with a degree in Liberal Arts and, like many CCM graduates, will continue his studies at a four-year institution. Having spent summers as a head counselor, he seeks to dedicate his life to counseling and working with underserved youth. 

Iacono also recognized Claire Whipple, of Bloomfield, and presented her with the 2026 Sherman and Dorothy Masten Memorial Scholarship. Whipple earned her degree in Science and Mathematics: Biology, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She will continue her education at either Rutgers University or the University of Washington. 

Candidates who graduated with honors based on high-achieving grade point averages and Honors Program participants were also recognized. The first cohort of the Early College Program, in partnership with the Morris County Vocational School District, also celebrated an important milestone. This was the first ever group of high school students to simultaneously earn their high school diplomas and college degrees. 

Iacono granted Faculty Emeritus status to retired Professor John Klages. This honorary lifetime title, the highest honor any professor can receive, recognizes Klagesโ€™ distinguished career and contributions to CCM. Having served CCM since 1975 as a faculty member and department chair, Iacono presented him with a resolution, highlighting that โ€œhe has shown measurable student impact, subject mastery, and dedication to student success beyond formal instruction.โ€  

Hannah Mescavage, of Belvedere, an academically gifted student with an almost perfect GPA, is, according to Iacono, โ€œone of the most exceptional student leaders I have seen in many, many years.โ€ She served as president of County College of Morrisโ€™ Phi Theta Kappa honor society and the InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, the collegeโ€™s largest and most active club, while also leading an Honors in Action project and excelling as a talented musician. She will transfer to Montclair State University to continue her studies in business.  

Mescavage addressed the graduates, sharing memories and noting, โ€œall of these experiences have one thing in common; they are memories that only we get to share, and thatโ€™s what makes CCM feel more like a home than just a campus.โ€ She also provided graduates with three takeaways from her time at CCM, โ€œalways strive for excellence, donโ€™t be afraid to get involved and never give up.โ€   

CCMโ€™s Board of Trustees Chair Paul Licitra, a U.S. Army Veteran, applauded the success of the graduates. โ€œTake your knowledge and skills into the world, but take your humanity too. Be curious. Listen deeply. Build bridges wherever you can,โ€ said Licitra.  

Morris County Board of County Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw addressed graduates with remarks inspired by an experiment using AI to write his speech. Finding the results lacked the authenticity and human perspective he sought, Shaw delivered a personal message emphasizing the importance of education, leadership and human connection in an increasingly technology-driven world. 

For more information about CCM, visitย www.ccm.edu.

Four Democrats Vie for 11th Congressional District Nomination in June 2 Primary

0
Analilia Mejia

PARSIPPANY โ€” Congresswoman Analilia Mejia will face three challengers in the Democratic primary election on Tuesday, June 2, marking the third election in just five months for the 11th Congressional District seat.

Mejia won a special election earlier this year following the resignation of Mikie Sherrill, who stepped down in January after being elected governor of New Jersey.

Seeking the Democratic nomination alongside Mejia are former Morristown Mayor Donald Cresitello, Montville resident Joseph Lewis, and Chatham Borough Councilman Justin Strickland.

The winner of the Democratic primary will advance to the general election on Tuesday, November 3, where they will face Joe Hathaway, who is running unopposed in the Republican primary, for a full two-year term in Congress.

New Jerseyโ€™s 11th Congressional District includes communities throughout Morris County and portions of Essex and Passaic counties. Major municipalities in the district include Parsippany-Troy Hills, Morristown, Randolph, Montville, Denville, Rockaway Township, Chatham Township, Chatham Borough, Livingston, West Orange, Montclair, Verona, Caldwell, Wayne, and Little Falls, among others. The district is considered one of New Jerseyโ€™s most politically competitive congressional districts and represents a diverse mix of suburban communities.

Clothing & Shoe Drive Fundraiser Set for Lake Parsippany Flea Market

0
File Photo

PARSIPANY — The LPPOA Ladies Club will host a Clothing & Shoe Drive Fundraiser during the Lake Parsippany Flea Market on Saturday, June 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. A rain date has been scheduled for Sunday, June 7.

The fundraiser will take place at Drews Beach on Lake Shore Drive, across from Dorothy Road in Lake Parsippany.

Residents are encouraged to clean out closets, attics, garages, and basements by donating gently used and unwanted items. Organizers noted that every bag collected helps raise funds for the organization, with proceeds based on the total weight of donations received.

Accepted items include adult and childrenโ€™s clothing, shoes, handbags, wallets, belts, jackets, linens, towels, hats, scarves, gloves, jewelry, backpacks, uniforms, small electronics, hard and soft toys, and household items. All donations must be securely packed in tightly tied plastic or paper bags.

Items not accepted include furniture, books, pillows, curtains, thrift store goods, or merchandise with stains, odors, rips, or mold.

For more information, residents may call 973-610-6511 or 973-632-9315.

Rainbow Lakes Fire House Filled with Patriotism During Memorial Day Ceremony

0
Rainbow Lakes Fire Chief Jeff Pikor placed a bouquet of flowers in the wreath to honor all who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

PARSIPPANY — Although the rain moved the annual memorial service inside to the crowded Rainbow Lakes Fire House, residents, veterans, first responders, and elected officials filled the building to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States.

Charlie Engfer, serving as master of ceremonies, opened the ceremony with the following speech:

โ€œIt is my honor to be here today as we come together to remember and honor the service and sacrifice of our nationโ€™s finest and bravest. As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not just to utter words, but to live by them.โ€

Guest speaker Mona Shaw continues to honor the legacy of her son, Capt. Stanford โ€œFordโ€ H. Shaw III, a highly respected Marine Raider who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving his country. Alongside her husband, Ford, and son, Tyler, Mona has remained committed to preserving Captain Shawโ€™s memory and supporting the military community. Captain Shaw, a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and member of the Marine Corps Special Operations Command, was among 11 service members lost in a tragic helicopter crash off the coast of Florida on March 10, 2015, during a training mission. His dedication, leadership, and service continue to inspire Marines, friends, and family members across the nation.

Charlie Engfer, taking on the role of master of ceremonies, skillfully led the proceedings during the Annual Memorial Service. Charlie Engfer served in the United States Marine Corps in the late 60s and early 70s.
The ceremony also included remarks and prayers from Rev. Donald Bragg, who participated in the annual Rainbow Lakes Memorial Service honoring fallen heroes.
Also participating in the ceremony was Pulkit Desai, who joined community members, veterans, and local officials in honoring the nationโ€™s fallen heroes during the annual Rainbow Lakes Memorial Service.
Addressing the crowded Rainbow Lakes Fire House, Ann Grossi welcomed residents, veterans, first responders, and elected officials to the annual Memorial Day ceremony honoring the nationโ€™s fallen heroes. She thanked the community for continuing the tradition of remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States.
Mona Shaw proudly honors the memory of her son, Capt. Stanford โ€œFordโ€ H. Shaw III, a Marine Raider who gave his life in service to his country on March 10, 2015. Along with her husband, Ford, and son, Tyler, the Shaw family continues to preserve his legacy of courage, leadership, and commitment to fellow Marines and service members.
Jerry Manning delivered a moving reading of โ€œA Soldier Died Today,โ€ reminding those gathered inside the crowded Rainbow Lakes Fire House of the sacrifices made by members of the United States military and the freedoms preserved through their service.
Representing the 116,700 Americans lost during World War I, Mike dePierro, a Vietnam Era Veteran and member of the United States Air Force, stepped forward to place a flag in remembrance of those who gave their lives defending freedom.
Representing the 407,316 Americans who lost their lives during World War II, Richard Miller, an Army National Guard Vietnam Veteran who served in the Mekong Delta from May 1969 to November 1969, solemnly placed a flag in honor of the fallen heroes of the war.
Representing the 36,914 Americans who lost their lives during the Korean War, Gordon Furlong, a United States Army Vietnam Era Veteran and former Infantry Trainer, stepped forward to place a flag in memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Representing the 58,220 Americans who lost their lives during the Vietnam War, Mark Van Dyke, a United States Navy Vietnam Veteran who served aboard Swift Boats in Vinh Thuy, stepped forward to place a flag in honor of those who never returned home.
Representing those who lost their lives in Lebanon, Grenada, and Somalia, Bob Freeman, a United States Navy Veteran who served as a Navy Corpsman, stepped forward to place a flag in honor of the service members who made the ultimate sacrifice during those conflicts.
Representing those who lost their lives during the Persian Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan conflicts, Brian Estler, a United States Marine Corps Veteran who served in Iraq and Kosovo with G Company, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines, stepped forward to place a flag in honor of the fallen service members.
Richie Sikibitski performed a moving rendition of โ€œTaps,โ€ bringing the annual Rainbow Lakes Memorial Day service to a solemn close as attendees reflected on the sacrifices made by Americaโ€™s fallen heroes.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Judy Hernandez and Councilman Matt Kavanagh joined residents, veterans, and local officials at the annual Rainbow Lakes Memorial Day service to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to the nation.

Memorial Day is more than the unofficial start of summer โ€” it is a day of remembrance dedicated to the brave men and women who gave their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

Across the nation, communities pause to honor those sacrifices and reflect on the freedoms preserved through their courage.

In Rainbow Lakes, despite rainy weather forcing the ceremony indoors, the crowded Fire House demonstrated the communityโ€™s deep respect and patriotism. Veterans, residents, elected officials, and first responders gathered together in solemn tribute, ensuring the memory of Americaโ€™s fallen heroes continues to live on for future generations.

The ceremony also featured the Color Guards, who proudly presented the colors as attendees stood in respect and remembrance during the annual Rainbow Lakes Memorial Day service honoring Americaโ€™s fallen heroes.
The packed Rainbow Lakes Fire House was filled with residents, veterans, first responders, and local officials who gathered shoulder-to-shoulder to honor Americaโ€™s fallen heroes during the annual Memorial Day service. Despite the rain forcing the ceremony indoors, the overwhelming turnout reflected the communityโ€™s deep respect and gratitude for those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The Wilmington Group Names Jeff Snyder as Chief Executive Officer

0

PARSIPPANY โ€” The Wilmington Group, a leading provider of recycling and managed waste services, announced the appointment of Jeff Snyder as Chief Executive Officer. The company is a portfolio company of New State Capital Partners and recently relocated its corporate headquarters to Parsippany.

The Wilmington Group operates from 35 Waterview Boulevard, Suite 302, further strengthening the townshipโ€™s growing business community.

Snyder brings more than three decades of experience in the waste and recycling industry. He began his career at WestRock in 1991, where he developed broad expertise in mill and converting operations before joining the companyโ€™s recycling division in 2008. During his tenure, he managed facilities in Indianapolis, Indiana; Chattanooga, Tennessee; Huntsville, Alabama; and Columbus, Ohio. He also directed the construction of two single-stream material recovery facilities in Chattanooga and Cobb County, Georgia.

In 2014, Snyder joined Pratt Industries, overseeing the sourcing of 50,000 tons of fiber per month for paper mills in Valparaiso, Indiana, and Wapakoneta, Ohio, while managing recycling plants and mill fiber operations.

He later joined Rumpke Waste & Recycling in 2020, advancing through senior leadership positions to become Senior Vice President of Recycling & Sustainability.

Snyder earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Northwest Missouri State University.

โ€œWhat drew me to The Wilmington Group is the same thing that has sustained it for almost 50 years โ€” a culture that treats customers like partners and employees like family,โ€ said Snyder. โ€œAs we move forward, our customers should know that the relationships, the service, and the people they count on are my top priority.โ€

โ€œThe Wilmington Group is focused on strengthening operational execution, delivering consistent service for customers, and building scalable infrastructure to support long-term growth,โ€ said Marc Herdegen, Senior Principal at New State Capital Partners. โ€œWe believe the business is at an important inflection point, and Jeff brings the operational depth and leadership experience to help lead the company through this next stage.โ€

The Wilmington Group also thanked Brett Lurie for his years of leadership and wished him well in his future endeavors.

Snyder will lead The Wilmington Groupโ€™s executive leadership team, including Chief Commercial Officer Brian Holtz; Division President of Wilmington Paper Tom Owston; Chief Financial Officer Thomas Topp; Chief Operating Officer Michelle Presley, who was appointed in January 2026; and Christine Hunt, who leads Human Resources.

Company officials said the leadership team brings decades of combined institutional knowledge and remains committed to strengthening customer relationships while driving long-term growth.

With Snyder at the helm, The Wilmington Group said it is well positioned to build on its strong foundation, deepen customer partnerships, and continue honoring the values that have defined the company for nearly five decades.

Fire Displaces Residents at Knoll Gardens Apartment Building in Lake Hiawatha

0
Firefighters from multiple agencies responded to a structure fire Wednesday evening at Building 46 of the Knoll Gardens Apartment Complex, located at 92 Grace Road in the Lake Hiawatha section of Parsippany. Residents were safely evacuated as crews worked to bring the blaze under control.

PARSIPPANY โ€” Residents were displaced Wednesday night after a fire broke out in an apartment building at the Knoll Gardens Apartment Complex in the Lake Hiawatha section of Parsippany, according to the Parsippany Police Department.

Police said officers responded at approximately 8:10 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, after the Montville Police Departmentโ€™s communications center received a 911 call reporting a structure fire at Building 46 of the complex.

Emergency responders remained on scene at Knoll Gardens Apartment Complex following a fire that displaced residents after the building was deemed uninhabitable due to damage and utility disconnections. The American Red Cross assisted displaced families.

When officers arrived, they learned there was an active fire in the buildingโ€™s crawl space. Maintenance personnel and responding officers safely evacuated residents from the building while firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze.

Authorities said responding fire crews brought the fire under control. However, the building was later deemed uninhabitable due to damage and the disconnection of utilities.

The American Red Cross was contacted to assist displaced residents.

All six Parsippany fire districts responded to the scene, along with Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, Par-Troy EMS, and both Parsippany volunteer EMS squads. Mutual aid assistance was provided by the Boonton, Whippany, Denville, Montville, and Morris Plains fire departments.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Parsippany Police Department at (973) 263-4300.

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Facilities Closed for Memorial Day

0
File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission announced that all agency locations statewide will be closed on Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day.

The closure includes all NJMVC agencies, road test sites, and vehicle inspection stations throughout New Jersey.

Officials said regular operations will be normal on Saturday, May 23.

Residents are reminded that many motor vehicle services remain available online through the commissionโ€™s website. More than 25 services can be completed electronically, including driver license renewals and replacements, vehicle registration renewals, address changes, driver record requests, and personalized license plate applications.

The commission encourages customers to visit the NJMVC website before traveling to an agency office to complete transactions online, schedule appointments, and resolve common customer service issues.

Nicole Piccininni Graduates Summa Cum Laude from NJIT

0
Nicole Piccininni

PARSIPPANY — Nicole Piccininni has graduated Summa Cum Laude from New Jersey Institute of Technology and Rutgers University with a major in Biology and a minor in Psychology.

Nicole Piccininni graduated from the Morris County School of Technology in 2022, where she studied Healthcare Sciences.

Throughout her college career, Nicole earned a perfect 4.0 GPA while making the Deanโ€™s List every semester. After graduating early in December 2025, she began working as a scribe in the emergency room at Saint Barnabas Medical Center while also taking time to travel internationally.

Nicoleโ€™s academic achievements earned her acceptance into 11 different medical schools. She will begin the next chapter of her educational journey in July when she attends Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.

Founded in 1881, the New Jersey Institute of Technology is one of the nationโ€™s leading public polytechnic universities and is recognized for its strong programs in science, engineering, technology, architecture, and research. Located in Newark, NJIT consistently ranks among the top public universities in the region and is known for preparing students for careers in medicine, technology, and innovation.

Congratulations to Nicole Piccininni and the NJIT Class of 2026 on this outstanding accomplishment.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, June 2026. Click here to read the magazine.

BAPS Charities to Host Annual “Spirit of Service: Walk-Run”

0

PARSIPPANY — BAPS Charities will host its annual “Spirit of Service: Walk-Run,” bringing together an estimated 1,000+ community members to support the Carol G. Simon Cancer Center and Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute โ€” both part of Atlantic Health System at Morristown Medical Center. The event champions causes such as health, environmental sustainability, humanitarian relief, and community empowerment, while fostering a spirit of unity and service. Walkers and runners of all ages will unite to back these two outstanding local institutions in their mission to provide world-class cancer and cardiovascular care to Morris County residents.

The Carol G. Simon Cancer Center is ranked among the top 40 cancer programs in the country and top two in New Jersey, offering cutting-edge therapies and clinical trials to patients across the region. The Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute is New Jersey’s largest cardiac surgery program, ranked among the nation’s top 50 hospitals for cardiology and heart surgery by U.S. News & World Report, and performs more cardiac surgeries than any other hospital in the state. Nearly 1 in 2 Americans will face a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, and heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States โ€” making the work of these institutions as vital as ever.

The event also presents a meaningful opportunity for local businesses to get involved as sponsors. Sponsorship tiers begin Silver Sponsor and go up to Grand Sponsor, with benefits including logo placement on event signage and promotional materials, on-stage recognition before hundreds of attendees, and complimentary event shirts for your team. To sponsor click here.

To discuss sponsorship, contactย [email protected].

WHEN: May 31, 2026
WHERE: 3 Entin Rd, Parsippany, NJ 07054
WHO: Participants of all ages, including local leaders, community advocates, sponsors, and representatives from beneficiaries.
WHY: The BAPS Charities Walk-Run is part of a nationwide initiative spanning over 100 cities across North America, highlighting the importance of community engagement and service. Beyond the Walk-Run, BAPS Charities actively supports those in need through food drives, blood donation camps, toy drives, and health awareness initiatives. For over 20 years, BAPS Charities has organized more than 1,200 walks, creating a lasting impact by supporting vital causes and fostering a spirit of service and unity in communities. Last year alone, the walkathon united over 45,000 walkers in support of BAPS Charities and more than 90 beneficiary organizations nationwide.
Everyone is encouraged to join the event โ€” register, walk, fundraise, or donate โ€” all through one link. Click here.

Letter to the Editor: Budget Critique of the Republican No Vote

0

Dear Editor:

After reading former Councilwoman Janice McCarthy’s letter on the wisdom of the new budget in a sustainable long term necessity, we need to critique the two “republican opposition votes in their hypocrisy and partisanship.

Hypocrisy best example is when former Mayor Soriano request for a minor tax increase to cover the covid episode, and the to this day ignoring of the major water infrastructure failures that occurred during the same period, and the debt incurred for that because water/sewer surplus had been looted for other tax patch purposes under Mayor Barberio. The “hold on to your wallets” Campaign which brought Barberio back for another term. Barberio despite his anti-democratic party, slogan on. election immediately raised both taxes, and water/sewer fees. This can only be described as partisanship of an arbitrary and capricious manner.

Councilman Carifi’s No Vote was based on a hollow and hypocritical based logic. His reasoning that the PILOT returns are yet unknown, and somehow we need to hold back the increase, contradicts his Voting for the PILOTS, as he described as “a win, win for Parsippany” during the No PILOTs protests, and the near thousand citizen turnout at the PAL to protest PILOTs for Warehouses, and Housing Mandates, sponsored by corporate billionaire developers. His sudden change of heart with developer attorney John Inglesino. Now when a Democratic majority in charge we again see the partisan mentality, of political party before the common best interest of the municipality.

Carifi again sited the example of how the Soriano Administration, which still had a republican majority, somehow mismanaged funds. He mentioned COVID during that time, but failed again to mention the major water infrastructure failures that occurred during the same time period. Wells failed, pumps broke down, pipes broke, and a water tower suffered inferior work by a contractor. These water infrastructure expenses were easily seen on the agendas and still do.

Councilman McGrath’s reasoning of the No Vote, was based on the PILOTs he opposed, that like Carifi suddenly realized are unknown, and ambiguous and will be in their transparency, and funding owed.

Councilman McGrath assumption, based on pure hypotheticals, and a fear tactic, to favor his No Vote, stated without proof, (and regrettably no feed back or contention against by Majority Council or Mayor) that our homes would be reassessed for tax increases to make up the difference in shortfalls. Why would this occur when the budget is based on the present tax base?

So somehow according to republican contentions the administration desperate for funding would allow PILOTs for rich corporate developers, and tax relief for additional corporate properties would without just cause exploit homeowners is a fear-tactic, and nothing more.

Parsippany is a good example of how a tax rateable chase of corporate real estate fails in the long term.
In my opinion the Present Council Majority is showing political courage, not partisan politics of self serving getting one reelected.

We blame local elected officials for circumstances not completely of their making. All your problems in finance stem from Washington. Economy is a political decision of social equity, and justice. The empire (USA) chooses not to support the states of the United States in their actual need. Passive rights; for example, such as Healthcare from the taxes we pay already to the Federal Power.
Government as intended promotes prosperity aka common-good, creates harmony, and prevents destructive competition among various constituted group. In this we have failed as a republic.

The Budget is sound and the expense is not excessive, only in one’s mind of political prejudice, and ignorant popular sovereignty which has elected rogues and criminals above us all.

Nick Homyak

Letter to the Editor: Preserving Community, Safety, and Housing Access in Parsippany

0

Dear Editor:

This is a plea to the Township Council and the Zoning Board of Adjustment to review existing zoning ordinancesโ€”particularly bulk requirements such as lot coverage and setbacksโ€”to ensure that new construction aligns with the scale of the surrounding neighborhood and to move away from routine variance approvals that enable the demolition of modest, single-family homes in favor of oversized, out-of-character development.

Lake Parsippany has historically been made up of modest, attainable homes that were thoughtfully scaled to complement both the lot and the surrounding neighborhood. Today, these homes are being demolished at an alarming rate. What replaces them are often out-of-scale houses that occupy a disproportionate share of the property, reducing or eliminating backyard space and bringing structures much closer to neighboring homes. Where there was once privacy and space between homes, there is now increasing crowding and inconsistency in scale. This shift fundamentally alters not only the appearance of the neighborhood but the way it functions.

A related concern is the trend of building larger homes by maximizing indoor living space, often at the expense of practical features like garages, driveways, and usable outdoor areas. While this may increase profits, it frequently results in insufficient on-site parking. As a result, more cars end up on the street, placing added strain on roads and the surrounding neighborhood.

Children can no longer ride their bikes freely, and many now walk to school amid fast-moving traffic and obstructed sightlines. While some suggest that street parking slows traffic, that has not been my experience. Cars continue to speed, and many drivers do not adhere to basic right-of-way rules when navigating streets narrowed by parked vehicles. The hazards are increasing, not improving.

Beyond safety, there is a broader concern: the loss of housing diversity and affordability. Homes in the $500,000โ€“$600,000 range are increasingly being purchased solely to be torn down, limiting opportunities for middle- and working-class families to enter the community. Historically, these homes attracted first-time buyers who put down roots and actively participated in sustaining Lake Parsippany, with the lake serving as a central part of daily life. As this housing stock disappears, so too does the social and cultural fabric that once defined the lake community. The lakeโ€”once the heart of the communityโ€”has suffered socially and environmentally.

Compounding this issue, some of these large homes function more like rental apartments. This further exacerbates parking congestion and strains infrastructure. These outcomes are not incidental; they are predictable results of the variances being approved.

Parsippany is not lacking stately, broad-acre communities developed for large, center-hall colonial homes. Many neighborhoods in town were designed with wider lots, longer driveways, and ample parking capacity. Lake Parsippany was not. Why, then, does the Zoning Board continue to approve variances that systematically dismantle one of the townโ€™s most historically working-class, community-oriented neighborhoods?

A thriving community depends on a balanced mix of housing types, price points, and household sizes. The continued approval of teardown-driven variances is eroding that balance and accelerating displacementโ€”losses that cannot be reversed once this housing stock is gone. The Board should consider the cumulative impact of these decisions, not just individual applications, and prioritize neighborhood character, safety, and housing affordability. Zoning decisions should be grounded in sound planning and infrastructureโ€”not tailored to specific demographics.

Bridget Cazzetto



Mayor Desai Learns Challenges Of Crossing Guard Duty Firsthand

0
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Pulkit Desai spent the morning alongside Crossing Guard Michael D'Alessandro at his post, gaining firsthand insight into the daily responsibilities and challenges faced by crossing guards as they work to keep students and residents safe throughout the township.

PARSIPPANY โ€” Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Pulkit Desai spent Friday morning alongside crossing guard Michael D’Alessandro at the busy intersection of Littleton Road and Rita Drive, gaining firsthand insight into the daily challenges faced by crossing guards protecting students near Parsippany Hills High School.

The intersection serves as a major access point to the high school and experiences heavy vehicle and pedestrian traffic during morning arrival hours.

Standing alongside D’Alessandro during the morning commute, Mayor Desai observed numerous traffic safety concerns, including motorists failing to obey traffic lights and posted signs, speeding through the intersection, and showing what he described as โ€œa total disregard for safety.โ€

Desai said the experience gave him a new appreciation for the difficult job crossing guards perform each day while managing impatient drivers and ensuring students safely cross one of the townshipโ€™s busiest roadways.

The mayor also praised D’Alessandro for the relationship he has built with students over the years.

โ€œYou know who was exemplary in addition to Michael? The kids,โ€ Desai said. โ€œThey listened to him, they were friendly and respectful, and Michael knew many of them by name. It was clear they trusted and respected him.โ€

Desai noted that D’Alessandro remained calm, alert, and attentive throughout the morning rush despite the constant traffic flow and unpredictable driver behavior.

He also reflected on the dedication required to perform the job in all types of weather conditions.

โ€œMichael loves his job and does it in rain, snow and extreme cold,โ€ Desai said. โ€œI was fortunate to spend the morning there on a nice day, but I will not forget what our crossing guards deal with during bad weather. This was truly an eye-opening experience.โ€

Following the visit, Desai said the township needs to examine additional traffic safety improvements near schools and heavily traveled intersections.

โ€œWe do need to improve signage, street markings and effective traffic light placement,โ€ Desai said. โ€œI will be looking into this ASAP.โ€

The visit highlighted the important role crossing guards like Michael D’Alessandro play each day in protecting Parsippany students and maintaining safety around local schools.

State Police Launch Increased Patrols For Memorial Day Weekend

0
New Jersey State Police

NEW JERSEY — Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer and the beginning of the busy travel season. Safety must be a priority on every journey as roadways fill with drivers heading to the shore, local parks, lakes, and family gatherings. No matter how short the trip, every drive carries risksโ€”and your choices behind the wheel can make all the difference. We urge all motorists to stay alert, avoid distractions, obey speed limits, and never drive under the influence. Buckle up, be patient, and remain mindful of pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.

During the Memorial Day holiday weekend last year, there were six crashes that resulted in fatalities. In five of the crashes, alcohol and/or drugs were a factor. These types of tragedies can easily be avoided by calling a taxi, using transportation applications such as Uber or Lyft, making plans to stay with friends or family, or having a designated driver.

The New Jersey State Police plans to increase traffic enforcement details across the state from Friday, May 23 to Tuesday, May 27. During this period, in addition to our regularly scheduled patrols, 170 troopers will be on traffic details targeting aggressive driving, speeding, seatbelt usage, commercial vehicle enforcement, cell phone usage, distracted driving, and DWI. Remember, driving drowsy can mimic the symptoms of driving under the influence, including impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and difficulty maintaining lane position. Just like driving under the influence, drowsy driving is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious accidents. If you feel sleepy while driving, please pull into a service area and rest to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Motorists are also reminded of the Move Over Law, which requires drivers to change lanes or slow down when approaching emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or other roadside assistance vehicles that are stopped on the side of the road with flashing lights. The purpose of this law is to provide a safe space for first responders and other workers to perform their duties without the risk of being hit by passing traffic. If changing lanes is not possible or unsafe, drivers must reduce their speed below the posted speed limit and proceed with caution. Help us keep you safe by helping emergency personnel stay safe.

Additionally, the New Jersey State Police Marine Bureau will be patrolling the stateโ€™s waterways this weekend and throughout the summer, looking for signs of boaters under the influence of alcohol or drugs and to stop reckless operation of boats and personal watercrafts.

Marine troopers will also be checking to see that boat operators have obtained the proper licenses to operate watercrafts. For up-to-date requirements and additional boating safety tips you can visit the State Police website by clicking here.

โ€œAs we head into Memorial Day weekend, I urge everyone to make smart decisions and prioritize safety,โ€ said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. โ€œWith increased traffic on our roads and waterways, the risk of crashes also increases. Your choices matterโ€”donโ€™t let one moment of carelessness turn into a preventable tragedy. Protect yourself, your passengers, and everyone sharing the road by putting safety first. Letโ€™s come together to make this Memorial Day weekend safe, respectful, and enjoyable for all. On behalf of the New Jersey State Police, I wish you a safe and meaningful Memorial Day as we remember and honor the heroes who gave their last full measure of devotion in service to our nation.โ€

Law Enforcement Announces Arrest for Impersonating a Law Enforcement Officer and Attempted Kidnapping Incident

0
Julio Estradaโ€‘Mogollon was driving this vehicle

MORRIS COUNTY โ€” Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Morris County Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and New Jersey State Police Acting Superintendent Jeanne Hengemuhle confirmed that Julio D. Estrada-Mogollon, 36, of Wayne, has been charged in connection with impersonating a law enforcement officer, theft and attempted kidnapping for an incident that occurred in Roxbury, in the early-morning hours of May 3.

At approximately 2:15 a.m., the victim left a business located in Saddle Brook, and while driving on Route 80 West, reported being pulled over by a dark-colored sedan with emergency lights in Roxbury, believing it to be a police officer. The driver of the sedan asked her for her documentation, removed her from the vehicle, and conducted an alleged field sobriety test. The individual then handcuffed the victim and advised her that she was under arrest. When the victim asked to see the alleged officerโ€™s badge, he walked back to his vehicle. At that time, the victim fled the area in her vehicle. She was able to get out of the handcuffs, and later realized her cell phone was missing, and reported the incident to the NJSP.

A subsequent investigation located the victimโ€™s phone in Paterson the following day.

The investigation revealed that the suspect vehicle was registered to Estrada-Mogollon.

Following an investigation, Estrada-Mogollon was subsequently charged on May 12, 2026 with second degree Attempted Kidnapping; third degree Theft by Unlawful Taking; and fourth degree Impersonating a Law Enforcement Officer.

Pursuant to the Criminal Justice Reform Act, the defendant has been detained in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending future court proceedings.

The incident remains under investigation by the NJSP and the Morris County Prosecutorโ€™s Office Major Crimes Unit. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Morris County Prosecutorโ€™s Office at (973) 285-6200.

Editorโ€™s Note: The courtโ€™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 a reasonable doubt.

Parsippany Economic Development Helps School of Rock Secure State Grants

0
Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee; Rob Corbi, owner of School of Rock Parsippany; and Mayor Pulkit Desai stand inside the School of Rock Parsippany location. The township recently assisted the business in securing both a Small Business Lease Grant and a Small Business Improvement Grant to support continued growth and investment in the community.

PARSIPPANY โ€” The Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee recently facilitated the process of securing two New Jersey Economic Development Authority grants for the local School of Rock franchise, helping support the businessโ€™s continued growth and investment in the community.

The first program, the Small Business Lease Grant, reimburses a portion of lease payments during the first two years of occupancy. The grant is designed to support the establishment and growth of small businesses and nonprofits, while also helping to fill vacant commercial space and prevent future vacancies.

The second program, the Small Business Improvement Grant, provides reimbursement funding for capital improvements, as well as the purchase and installation of furniture, fixtures, and equipment.

โ€œThese grants are another example of how Parsippany continues to support and encourage businesses that invest in our community,โ€ said Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee. โ€œSchool of Rock has become a tremendous addition to Parsippany, providing opportunities for young musicians while contributing to our local economy. We are proud to assist businesses in navigating available state resources that can help them succeed.โ€

Mayor Pulkit Desai praised the collaboration between local officials and the business community.

โ€œParsippany remains committed to creating a business-friendly environment where companies can grow and thrive,โ€ Mayor Desai said. โ€œPrograms such as these grants help strengthen our commercial corridors, attract new investment, and support the entrepreneurs who make our township vibrant.โ€

Rob Corbi, owner of School of Rock Parsippany, expressed appreciation for the townshipโ€™s assistance throughout the grant process.

โ€œWe are extremely thankful to the Parsippany Economic Development Committee for helping us identify and secure these grants,โ€ Corbi said. โ€œThe support allows us to continue enhancing our facility and expanding opportunities for students and families throughout the community.โ€

Businesses interested in learning more about available grant opportunities are encouraged to contact Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee, at (973) 559-6000.

Translate ยป