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Feb 4, 2025

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Chamber of Commerce will hold its 104th annual meeting luncheon on Thursday, February 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. at the Hanover Marriott, 1401 Route 10 East, Hanover.

This year’s keynote speaker is Sudeep Kesh, chief innovation officer at S&P Global Ratings, who leads a team focused on cyber threats, artificial intelligence, and technology disruption. His address will provide practical insights on artificial intelligence and cyber risks for business leaders, strategies for navigating a connected economy, and the innovation imperative for businesses in today’s fast-changing world.

The event will also feature the presentation of the Saint Clare’s Health William P. Huber Award for Outstanding Community Leadership, honoring Christine Cox-West, founding partner of The Fortis Agency. Cox-West is recognized for supporting small businesses, nonprofits, and healthcare organizations, including Children’s Specialized Hospital and Community Medical Center.

Additionally, the luncheon will include:

State of the County Address by Morris County Board of County Commissioners Director Tayfun Selen
State of the Chamber Overview by Chamber President Meghan Hunscher
Recognition of Outgoing Board Chair Deirdre Wheatley-Liss, Principal at Porzio, Bromberg & Newman, P.C.
Introduction of Incoming Board Chair Tony Iacono, President of County College of Morris

Under Iacono’s leadership, County College of Morris has strengthened ties with the business community and continues to expand its facilities and educational services. He also serves on multiple statewide education and economic development committees.

The annual luncheon is a key event for business and community leaders in Morris County. It offers networking opportunities and expert insights into economic and technological trends.

Mario M. Kranjac Announces Run for New Jersey Governor

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Feb 4, 2025

Mario-M.-Kranjac1 — Former Englewood Cliffs Mayor Mario M. Kranjac announced his candidacy for Governor

MORRIS COUNTY — Mario M. Kranjac has officially entered the New Jersey governor’s race, bringing what his campaign describes as a political outsider’s perspective to the Republican primary. A news release announcing his candidacy described Kranjac as “a political outsider, successful self-made attorney and businessman, and unapologetic supporter of President Trump.”

The statement continued, “Mario will bring fresh thinking, reform, and change to Trenton.”

Kranjac joins a growing Republican field that includes former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, Senator Jon Bramnick, former State Senator Ed Durr, and conservative radio host Bill Spadea.

On the Democratic side, Rep. Mikie Sherrill, former Montclair Mayor Sean Spiller, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, former NJ Senate President Steve Sweeney, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, and Rep. Josh Gottheimer have all announced their candidacies.

The race is expected to be highly competitive as candidates from both parties present their visions for New Jersey’s future.

Rainbow Lakes Hosts Successful Ice Rescue Training Drill

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Feb 4, 2025

Rainbow-Ice-Drill-4 — First Responders Conduct Ice Rescue Training at Rainbow Lakes

PARSIPPANY — The Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company (Parsippany Fire District 2) led a joint Ice Rescue Training Drill, bringing together multiple emergency response agencies to enhance preparedness for winter emergencies.

Rainbow Lakes, Parsippany Fire Districts 1, 2, and 5 Conduct Joint Ice Rescue Training Drill

A special thank you to our partners in training:

Parsippany OEM
Parsippany Fire District 1
Parsippany Fire District 5
Parsippany Rescue and Recovery
Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance
Parsippany Police
Parsippany Rockaway Neck First Aid

These drills are crucial for sharpening skills and ensuring quick, effective responses when every second counts. Check out some action shots from the training.

Rainbow Lakes Firefighters Conduct Critical Ice Rescue Training

Safety Reminder

For training purposes, holes were cut into the Rainbow Lake ice and marked with cones. Please avoid these areas and remember—no ice is ever 100% safe.

Get Involved

Are you interested in lifesaving training like this? Join us. Stop by our next meeting this Friday at 7:30 p.m. at the Rainbow Lakes Firehouse, or contact your local fire company to learn how you can make a difference.

#IceRescueTraining #PreparedToSaveLives #CommunityStrong #StaySafe #VolunteerFirefighters

Multi-Agency Ice Rescue Drill Held at Rainbow Lakes

Letter to the Editor: Driving Force Behind the Climate Superfund Act

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Feb 4, 2025

Dear Editor:

It is important to understand the driving force behind the Climate Superfund Act. It is the existing and growing costs of a warming world. These costs are coming at us like a runaway locomotive, and there is no way to stop them in the short term. The fact is that carbon dioxide, once emitted into the atmosphere, stays there for centuries and continues to warm the planet. Even if we stop adding CO2 to the atmosphere today, the world will continue to warm, and the impacts of climate change will continue to become more severe. CO2 acts like a blanket that continues to capture more and more heat daily. Each year we add another layer of blanket. But It would take more than two centuries, even if emissions dropped close to zero by the end of this century, for CO2 concentrations to fall back below 400 parts per million, which is where they were in 2015, let alone 280 parts per million, where they were at the start of the industrial revolution.^[1]

Several studies have looked at the expected costs of damages from this increase in CO2 and other greenhouse gases:

Forbes magazine reported on a study in Nature stating, “Climate change is on track to cost the global economy $38 trillion every year in damages within the next 25 years.” This is extremely dangerous since the total global GDP today is only about $100 trillion.

A 2022 research paper said that an estimated $16 trillion was lost between 1992 and 2013, due to the effect of high temperatures on human health, productivity, and agricultural output.

U.S. economic costs of extreme heat alone are estimated to reach $100 billion every year, just in heat-induced declines in productivity. Nearly all US counties are feeling the economic burn of extreme heat, with labor-productivity losses expected to cost half a trillion dollars annually by 2050.

In 2024, the World Economic Forum predicted that a 2.5 degree C rise in global temperature (which is where we are today) would cause 14.5 million deaths and $12.5 trillion in economic damage by 2050.

Another study estimates that by 2050, climate disasters could wipe out 10% of the U.S. GDP annually.

An analysis by NYPIRG found New York State taxpayers were heavily burdened by $2.2 billion in climate costs in 2023 or $300 per household. A second analysis of NYC taxpayer climate costs estimated future costs of $162.9 billion, or $50,906 per household.

The point is that while these estimates vary, and even if they are off by 50%, these costs are enormous, and we will not be able to stop this in this century. And by the way, virtually all estimates about the depth of climate change problems have been too conservative. This is about as guaranteed that the sun will come up each morning.

How are we going to deal with these costs? Will the government pay? The U.S. is deeply in debt and getting deeper every year. Is Congress going to approve more debt to spend money on climate costs? States are all stretched to the limit. Are states going to issue billions of dollars in bonds? Are big companies and billionaires going to open their pocketbooks? No, the only answer is that individual citizens will pay directly for their damages and/or towns and states will increase taxes.

The Climate Superfund Act (CSA) attempts to deal with these costs and make life less painful for everyone in the future. It’s not perfect and will take a lot of work to implement, but it is trying to deal with this impending disaster. If anyone who does not like the CSA approach has a better idea, please let us all know.

Ken Dolsky

Eastlake School Hosts Family Trivia Night on February 21

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Feb 4, 2025

PARSIPPANY — Eastlake School invites families to test their knowledge and enjoy a fun-filled evening at its Family Trivia Night on Wednesday, February 21, at 7:00 p.m. The event will occur in the Eastlake Gymnasium, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m.

Families can form teams of two to six members, with a $25 entry fee per team. The night promises exciting trivia rounds covering various topics, bringing together students, parents, and community members for friendly competition.

Registration is required by February 14, and all student and adult attendees must be listed on the registration form. Participants are encouraged to bring their own food, snacks, and drinks, as alcohol is strictly prohibited on school grounds.

For more information or to register, email Marissa at eastlakevicepresident@gmail.com.

Three New Members join the Woman’s Club

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Feb 4, 2025

Womens-Club — Janice Carrubba (Membership Co-Chair), Audrey Herman, Carmella Foehner, Jill Rubenstein, and Ginny Scala (Membership Co-Chair)

PARSIPPANY — The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills welcomed three new members, Audrey Herman, Carmella Foehner, and Jill Rubenstein, during its General Meeting on Monday, January 27.

These individuals have demonstrated their dedication to the club by actively participating in projects and initiatives that benefit the community. They now join a committed group of volunteers who promote education, culture, and civic engagement through fellowship and service.

The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is affiliated with the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC), two of the largest volunteer women’s service organizations at the national and state levels. These organizations offer opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service, empowering members to make a meaningful impact.

General Meetings take place on the fourth Monday of each month from September through April at 6:30 p.m. Those interested in learning more about the club’s activities are encouraged to contact Ginny at 973-887-0336, visit the club’s website by clicking here, email womansclubofpth@gmail.com, or follow the club on Facebook and Instagram.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment to Review Key Development Proposals on February 5

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Feb 4, 2025

zoning-2025 — Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment

PARSIPPANY-TROY HILLS, NJ – The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment will meet on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 7:30 p.m., to review several major applications that could impact residential and commercial development in the township.

Click here to download the agenda.

Applications on the Agenda

The Board will consider a variety of variance requests and site plan proposals, including residential projects, commercial developments, and community facility expansions.

New Single-Family Home Proposal at 9 Minnehaha Boulevard

Applicant Yalda Naibzada seeks approval to construct a two-story single-family home with two covered porches and a patio at 9 Minnehaha Boulevard. The application requires a ‘C’ Variance, as it does not meet specific zoning requirements related to front and rear yard setbacks.

Three-Car Garage with Storage at 593 South Beverwyck Road

Homeowner Marek Lezanski is requesting a ‘C’ Variance to build a detached three-car garage at 593 South Beverwyck Road, including a second-story storage area. The proposal requires relief from zoning ordinances that regulate accessory structures.

Mixed-Use Development Proposal at 3 Greenhill Road

Developer Jay OM, Inc. has submitted an application for Preliminary and Final Major Site Plan approval for a mixed-use structure at 3 Greenhill Road in the B-3 Zone. The proposal includes both commercial and residential space, requiring C and D variances for zoning compliance.

29-Unit Housing Facility for the Islamic Community Cultural Center

One of the most significant applications on the agenda is from the Islamic Community Cultural Center (ICCC), which is seeking approval to construct a four-story, 29-unit housing facility at 879 South Beverwyck Road. The project requires a Preliminary & Final Site Plan review and multiple C and D variances. This application was initially scheduled for the January 8, 2025, meeting but was carried over for further review and an announcement of the date and location.

Additional Matters

The Board will also formally dismiss an application from Lidiya & Yelena Binder regarding a two-family home at 4 Parkside Drive due to failure to appear.

Public Participation Encouraged

The meeting will be open to the public, giving residents an opportunity to voice their support or concerns regarding these development proposals.

With several impactful projects under review, the February 5 Board of Adjustment meeting is expected to shape Parsippany’s future development and zoning landscape.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Prepares for Key Discussions at February 4 Meeting

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Feb 4, 2025

Council---2024 — Councilman Justin Musella, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., and Councilman Matt McGrath

PARSIPPANY — The Township Council of Parsippany-Troy Hills will meet on Tuesday, February 4, at 7:00 p.m. to discuss a range of community initiatives, infrastructure improvements, and financial matters that will shape the township’s future.

Click here for a copy of the agenda.

Click here for a copy of the 2024 calendar.

Agenda Highlights

The meeting will be held at the Municipal Building and includes key resolutions and ordinances designed to enhance municipal services and community engagement.

Among the notable topics for discussion is an Interlocal Services Agreement with the County of Morris Department of Human Services. If approved, this agreement will allow the county to lease a section of the Parsippany Community Center to operate a Nutrition Center, providing essential services for aging residents, individuals with disabilities, and veterans.

The council will also consider the appointment of Special Law Enforcement Officers, Class II, reinforcing the township’s commitment to public safety.

Proposed Infrastructure Investments

The meeting’s agenda includes several resolutions related to township infrastructure, including:

A Change Order for the Well No. 1A-R Replacement and Treatment Facility Improvements Project, ensuring continued progress on critical water system upgrades.
Purchasing an aerial lift and chip body is a key investment in maintaining public works efficiency.
Upgrades for the Parsippany Police Department, including acquiring two Lenovo ThinkSystem Servers and a new in-car video system with cloud storage services.

169 Lackawanna Avenue Redevelopment Plan

One of the most significant items on the agenda is the first reading of an ordinance adopting the 169 Lackawanna Avenue Redevelopment Plan. This initiative is expected to bring new opportunities for economic development and community enhancement to the township.

Financial Considerations

The council will also review budget transfers to ensure financial stability and discuss the payment of the February 14, 2025, payroll, estimated at $1.65 million. Additionally, the council will vote on the approval of bills totaling $3.7 million, reflecting ongoing investments in township operations and services.

What’s Next?

The next council session, following the February 4 meeting, is scheduled for February 18, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and engaged in these discussions as the township continues to grow and develop.

The council meeting will provide an opportunity for public input, allowing residents to voice their opinions on key issues impacting the community. Those interested in attending or participating in the public session should be prepared to share their thoughts and concerns during the designated time.

Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided in accordance with the requirements of the Open Public Meetings Law by filing the notice in the Office of the Township Clerk and by posting the meeting notice on the bulletin board at the Municipal Building on December 2, 2024, where it has remained posted since that date. A legal notice appeared in the Daily Record and the Newark Star-Ledger on December 6, 2024.

Mayor James Barberio
Council President Paul Carifi, Jr.
Council Vice President Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella
Councilman Matt McGrath
Councilwoman Judy Hernandez

Letter to the Editor: Setting The Record Straight on PILOTs

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Feb 4, 2025

Dear Editor:

A recent letter written by township employee Mike Smith – defending Mayor Barberio -claimed that Parsippany must grant Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements to meet its affordable housing obligations. That is not true. As someone with extensive real estate experience as a broker, I want to clarify the facts.

Mayor Barberio has repeatedly shifted his reasoning for supporting PILOTs, especially after the controversial December 28, 2023, council meeting. Let’s review the indisputable timeline:

November 9, 2023: Former Township Attorney John Inglesino unexpectedly addressed the council, arguing that PILOTs were necessary for economic development. That night, the mayor and council introduced three PILOT agreements without finalized terms. Councilman Musella rightly called this out as unacceptable. No one in real estate would sign a blank contract and fill in the details later.

December 6, 2023: The first official reading of the PILOT projects. Mayor Barberio justified them by claiming the project sites were “blighted.” Inglesino, representing both the developers and the township—a clear conflict of interest—again pushed for the PILOTs. Resident Michael Espejo publicly pointed this out. The lack of negotiation in favor of Parsippany residents was alarming. It felt like a backroom deal, not responsible governance.

December 13, 2023: At a town hall with Councilman Musella and Board of Education President Choffo, I questioned why PILOTs were needed. Developers are already motivated to build in Parsippany—warehouses and industrial spaces are in high demand, and rents have skyrocketed. Instead of handing out financial incentives, we should explore real solutions like modernizing zoning laws, allowing adult-use cannabis businesses, and lowering tax rates.

Barberio, Ingesino, and their council allies pushed forward despite all this. It wasn’t until after the backlash that they changed their argument, now claiming PILOTs were about affordable housing. But the facts don’t support that either—of the 14 new commercial projects in Parsippany, only 6 received PILOTs. More than half of all new developments are happening without them.

Nothing would change the minds of Mayor Barberio or the compliant council members who supported these deals. New leadership is still needed at Town Hall. On June 10th, I urge Parsippany Republicans to vote out Mayor Barberio and vote in Justin Musella, who puts the interests of taxpayers first.

Kenneth Kaplan
Parsippany

Letter to the Editor: Climate Resolution Causes Accusations of Radical Leftism; Bizzare

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Feb 4, 2025

Dear Editor:

Earth Systems Scientists worldwide have concluded that climate change is caused by human action, the burning of fossil fuels, the return of sequestered carbon from millions and billions of years to the atmosphere, mass deforestation, and the general loss of biodiversity.

We now have a presidential administration that, without proof, is saying this phenomenon does not exist, that it is some type of political hoax, and that it is also without explanation. This administration, instead of moving into a future of sustainability and ecological sense, has chosen to accelerate the extraction of oil, gas, and coal. The exact opposite of what scientifically, humanity needs to do.

The Science of Earth Systems (EES), and Terrestrial Ecologist Scientist have come to the conclusion that mankind is now in an epoch that has been named the Anthropocene, that the previous 12,000 years of relative stable climate systems of earth known as the Holocene has ended. The year given for this sudden change into a new epoch called the Anthropocene, characterized by significant changes in the earth’s climate, is 1950. The proof of this permanent change is absolute!

We now have members of Parsippany’s Board of Education who are saying that these scientists are somehow misleading us, that there is no climate emergency or crisis caused by our way of life based on the continued use of fossil fuels or carbon being emitted back into the atmosphere. In my opinion, it is shameful for a Board of Education to take such a position and see the people who are perpetrating this as something to attach their allegiance to. Shall Parsippany BOE’s next step be to Ban any element of Ecological knowledge or Sciences for its students?

The truth is that this president and his administration are clearly and present dangers to the future.

Denying the existence of man-induced climate change through dangerous deregulation and eliminating government agencies in the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). This is a complete disregard for the Precautionary Principle of Responsibility to Protect the Public based on Known and Available Scientific Evidence. This should upset every one of us, especially BOE members. These actions involve deliberate deceit, concealment, and breach of trust, all motivated by a criminal motivation for financial gain

Actions based on ignoring established scientific consensus could lead to legal repercussions, particularly when it harms others, such as in situations related to public health or environmental regulations. How is it ok for corporations to harm us through their pollution and degradation of nature, of which we pay the costs for their dominant power over us, but we somehow have no right to petition for their responsible behavior?

I applaud the Parsippany Council Members who voted for this Climate Superfund Resolution. There can be No Sides to Climate. The Science in politics is a corruption that distorts or takes lightly the time we are in. “When you find yourself in a hole, Stop Digging.” This is common sense, or what should be called ecological sense, in our time. If one does not know how the world works ecologically, one cannot remedy or fix anything. In our time, Ecology is Everything.

Lastly, as a senior citizen on a set very modest income, I resent having to pay local taxes to such a board of education of science deniers in support of low-value lies.

Nicholas Homyak

Altman Joint Venture Secures $22 Million Loan for Apex Logistics Development in Parsippany

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Feb 4, 2025

2-Hilton-Court — Apex Logistics at Two Hilton Court to Bring High-Demand Industrial Space

PARSIPPANY – Altman Logistics Properties has secured $22 million in construction financing for the development of Apex Logistics at Parsippany, a 140,000-square-foot Class A logistics facility set to rise at Two Hilton Court. A joint venture between Altman Logistics Properties, Renard Investments Group, and DHS Real Estate Investment Management B.V. backs the project.

Sitework for Apex Logistics at Parsippany is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2025, with vertical construction planned for mid-year and substantial completion expected by late 2025. The development is strategically positioned at the intersection of I-80 and I-287, providing direct access to I-280, I-78, Routes 24, 46, and 10, and is located approximately 30 miles from New York City, Newark Liberty International Airport, and major regional ports.

The former Daiichi Sankyo building at Two Hilton Court is being demolished for a new warehouse.

Financing & Market Demand
The construction loan is being provided by Truist, with Cushman & Wakefield’s John Alascio and TJ Sullivan assisting the joint venture in securing financing. Mark Levy, President of Altman Logistics Properties, emphasized the growing demand for modern, efficient logistics facilities in New Jersey’s land-constrained market.

“Our ability to secure the successful and timely financing for the construction of Apex Logistics at Parsippany underscores the demand for new modern, sustainable, and efficient logistics space in the New Jersey market,” said Levy. “We are optimistic that the delivery of Apex Logistics at Parsippany will help meet demand for infill logistics product in one of the region’s most land-constrained markets.”

Altman’s Expanding Portfolio
Altman Logistics Properties, led by seasoned industry professionals with over 75 years of experience, specializes in developing logistics hubs in high-demand areas. The firm recently acquired a 15.7-acre site in Hamilton Township, NJ, for Apex Logistics at Hamilton, a 170,800-square-foot warehouse project.

Beyond New Jersey, Altman is developing:

A three-phase, 600,000-square-foot logistics facility in Delray Beach, Florida
A 202,000-square-foot industrial site in Lakeland, Florida
A 182,000-square-foot warehouse logistics facility in Davie, Florida, replacing the former Signature Grand event space

With Apex Logistics at Parsippany on track, Altman Logistics continues to strengthen its foothold in New Jersey’s logistics and industrial market, bringing state-of-the-art distribution hubs to one of the most critical supply chain corridors in the U.S.

Knights of Columbus Hosts Annual St. Patrick’s Party in Whippany

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Feb 3, 2025

Morris-Focus-4 — Irish American meal of corned beef, cabbage, and potatoes.

WHIPPANY – Get ready to wear your best green attire and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in true Irish spirit! The Knights of Columbus Council #6904 invites the community to their annual St. Patrick’s Party on Saturday, March 15th, at Our Lady of Mercy Gym at 90 Whippany Road, Whippany, from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

This festive evening promises traditional Irish food, live music, and dancing. Guests will enjoy a delicious Corned Beef & Cabbage dinner with dessert while sipping on beer, soda, and water—all included in the ticket price. Attendees are encouraged to bring BYO drinks, wine, and appetizers to share with friends.

Live entertainment will keep the energy high as guests take to the dance floor for an unforgettable night of Irish fun. Table reservations are available, making it the perfect event for groups looking to celebrate together.

Tickets are $40 per person and must be purchased in advance. To secure your spot, contact Ralph Cetrulo at rcetrulo@optonline.net or purchase online at knightsofcolumbus6904.com.

Don’t miss out on this exciting tradition—gather your friends and family and join the Knights of Columbus for a night filled with Irish cheer!

Letter to the Editor: Practical Solutions Over Political Rhetoric

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Feb 3, 2025

Dear Editor:

I apologize for the length. It would be beneficial to read it in its entirety!!

Information is readily available—you must put in the time and research. Pick up the phone and talk to knowledgeable people about this issue. Or attend every council meeting, which I don’t recommend. The mayor has been addressing this for a long time, and we’ve been asking the people fighting the mayor what the solution to these mandates is.

I just reviewed the affordable housing numbers for every municipality in New Jersey, and it’s a disaster. The mayor is working to negotiate and navigate through a situation that no one is happy with. At council meetings, I often hear him say that each proposal is handled on a case-by-case basis. And he always follows that up with: “We say no all the time.”

Additionally, the town has joined a collective lawsuit challenging the Round Four affordable housing mandates, further demonstrating its efforts to push back against these obligations.

Here are some FACTS I put together:

If a municipality in New Jersey fails to comply with its Mount Laurel Doctrine affordable housing obligations, several legal and financial consequences can follow:

1. Builder’s Remedy Lawsuits
• Developers can sue the town for failing to meet its affordable housing obligations.
• If successful, the court can override local zoning laws and allow large-scale, high-density housing projects that include affordable units.
• Towns lose control over where and how new housing is built.

2. Court-Imposed Mandates
• A judge can take control of a town’s zoning and force it to allow new affordable housing developments.
• Courts have historically ruled against towns trying to avoid their obligations.

3. Loss of Legal Protections
• Towns that work in good faith to comply with the Fair Housing Act receive immunity from lawsuits.
• If a town ignores its obligations, it loses this protection, making it vulnerable to legal action from developers and advocacy groups like the Fair Share Housing Center (FSHC).

4. Financial Penalties & State Intervention
• The state can withhold funding for certain projects, such as road improvements or municipal aid.
• The town may also be forced to pay legal fees and settlements in lawsuits.

Has This Happened Before?

Yes. Many towns have faced lawsuits and court-ordered housing mandates due to non-compliance. For example:
• Montvale & Englewood Cliffs resisted their obligations but were sued and forced to allow high-density developments.
• Princeton & West Windsor proactively settled their obligations to avoid losing control over local zoning.

Can Parsippany Avoid This?

Parsippany has historically complied with its obligations but is now challenging its Fourth Round numbers. If the challenge fails and the town refuses to comply, it could face lawsuits and builder’s remedy developments that allow large-scale projects beyond local zoning rules. And who do you think pays for that?

Lastly!!

If you want real solutions to New Jersey’s affordable housing mandates, direct your energy toward the people who have the power to change them—not the mayor, who is simply trying to navigate a system that every municipality is struggling with.

Who to Address for Real Change:

New Jersey Legislature – State lawmakers created the Fair Housing Act, which enforces these mandates. Contact your state senator and assembly representatives and push for legislative reform.

New Jersey Supreme Court – The court established the Mount Laurel Doctrine. While you can’t directly influence the court, legal challenges from municipalities could force a reconsideration.

Governor of New Jersey – The governor can sign or veto housing-related bills and influence how the mandates are enforced. Urge the governor to support policies that give towns more flexibility. GOOD LUCK WITH THIS!!

Instead of blaming local officials who are just trying to manage this mess, we need to push for real legislative change at the state level. Contact your representatives, support legal challenges, and demand a system that considers local needs instead of imposing one-size-fits-all mandates.

I’ll stand with the mayor—a leader who has experience navigating this mess. Because let me tell you, if the alternative thinks they can just say “no” and make it all go away, they’re in for a rude awakening. If you think things are bad now, just wait.

The mayor has created a roadmap for handling these mandates, and no matter what anyone says, any future mayor of this town will have no choice but to follow it. Just saying PILOTs are bad and Barberio is bad isn’t a solution to the current issues this town faces. All it is is campaign nonsense.

As a lifelong citizen of this town, I’ve seen it all. The changes, the challenges, the growth. And I can tell you firsthand that it’s about having the right information and the courage to discuss it openly. That’s how we make this town better for everyone together.

Michael Smith

Parsippany Man Involved in Wrong-Way Crash on I-80 That Leaves One Dead

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Feb 3, 2025

MORRIS COUNTY — A wrong-way crash on Interstate 80 early Sunday morning resulted in one fatality and another person seriously injured, according to New Jersey State Police spokesperson Sergeant Charles Marchan.

The collision occurred at approximately 2:22 a.m. on I-80 westbound near milepost 36.2.

A preliminary investigation determined that a Mercedes SUV, driven by 45-year-old Victor Peters of Parsippany-Troy Hills, was traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes. At the same time, a Ford pickup truck, driven by 31-year-old Destinn McKnight of East Stroudsburg, PA, was heading west when the two vehicles collided head-on.

McKnight sustained fatal injuries in the crash, while Peters was seriously injured, authorities reported.

The incident remains under investigation.

What You Need to Know When Sending Money Home?

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Focus contributor

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Feb 3, 2025

While living abroad, sending money to loved ones or supporting family back home requires expats or migrants to be knowledgeable about various aspects.

No doubt, making international money transfers can be complex. That’s why having proper knowledge and understanding of the transactional process is paramount.

Uncertain about what you must be aware of? If that’s the case, look nowhere else. Let’s have a look at the five significant factors you must know before transferring money home.

Transfer Fees and Exchange Rates

To initiate, you need to evaluate the fees associated with the transfer service. All money transfer platforms, including Western Union, charge varied fees that can significantly influence the amount your recipient receives. What’s more, keep tabs on ever-changing currency exchange rates.

A less favorable rate can diminish the total amount of money transmitted. So, always compare currency exchange rates across multiple services to ensure you get the best deal.

The Right Transfer Service

Whether you intend to send money to Puerto Rico, Egypt, or any other country, there are numerous firms like Western Union and options available to make it happen. Some of the most considerable options are as follows;

Bank transfers
Online money transfer services
International money orders
Remittance companies
Cryptocurrencies

Each option comes with its own set of pros and limitations. To determine which is best, research factors such as transfer speed, security, customer reviews, and reliability.

Some services may offer instant transfers, while others might take several days. Prioritize opting for a money transfer method that best aligns with your urgency and comfort level.

Local Regulations and Taxes

Different countries have varying regulations and taxes associated with international money transfers, including limits on how much money can be sent and received. You should also understand potential taxes that might apply. Familiarize yourself with these regulations to avoid unexpected issues and financial loss.

Invest your time researching the specific requirements for both sending and receiving money to and from. This wise investment will ensure your compliance with such standards.

Secure Method for Transfers

Security factor is what should be your top priority when sending money back home. While selecting the service, ensure it employs robust security measures like

end-to-end encryption
a reliable fraud detection system

Be cautious about sharing personal and financial information. Stay alert for prospective scams or phishing attempts. If you utilize a well-known and reputable platform, the chances of risks will be significantly reduced.

Alternative Options

Depending on your needs, consider alternative methods for sending money. Options like cryptocurrency or mobile banking apps may offer unique benefits such as lower fees or quicker processing times.

In addition, some organizations provide community-based transfer services or social networks that facilitate remittances. It can sometimes be a more cost-effective and convenient solution for sending money internationally.

Final Words

Understanding these five points can empower you to make informed decisions about sending money home internationally. In other words, proper knowledge of how to make international transactions can lead you to the right track, ensuring that your funds arrive safely and efficiently.

Tractor-Trailer Overturns on I-287 Exit Ramp, Driver Injured

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Feb 2, 2025

287-truck-crash1 — Driver Injured After Tractor-Trailer Overturns on Parsippany Exit Ramp

PARSIPPANY — A tractor-trailer driver was injured after his vehicle overturned on an Interstate 287 exit ramp in Morris County on Friday night, January 31, according to New Jersey State Police spokesperson Sergeant Charles Marchan.

Police Investigate Overturned Tractor-Trailer Crash on I-287 in Parsippany

The incident occurred around 8:50 p.m. on the southbound Exit 40A (Parsippany Road) of Interstate 287 in Parsippany-Troy Hills.

Marchan said a preliminary investigation determined that the tractor-trailer was navigating the exit ramp when it lost directional control and overturned.

The driver sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The crash remains under investigation, and no further details were available.

New Jersey State Police Seeking Public’s Assistance with Locating Escaped Inmate

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Feb 1, 2025

On Thursday, January 30, 2025, at approximately 9:00 a.m., Nicholas Voutsas escaped from a New Jersey Department of Health medical transport van that was en route to University Hospital in Newark, Essex County. As a result, the initial investigating agency, the New Jersey Human Services Police Department, charged Nicholas Voustas with escape.

He was last seen in the area of University Hospital, near South Orange Avenue and Bergen Street in Newark, Essex County. At the time of his escape, he was wearing a burgundy or maroon winter coat.

Voutsas is a Tier 2 registered sex offender. He is a 25-year-old Caucasian male, approximately 6’0” tall and weighing approximately 260 lbs.

Anyone with information that could assist in locating Nicholas Voutsas is urged to contact the New Jersey State Police Fugitive Unit Tipline at 1-800-437-7839 or email Fugitiveinformation@njsp.gov. Anonymous tips are welcome.

Parsippany’s Lauren Muraski Stars in Bergen County Players’ Production of Rabbit Hole

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Jan 31, 2025

PARSIPPANY—Local actress Lauren Muraski plays the lead in the Bergen County Players (BCP) production of Rabbit Hole, a powerful drama exploring grief, resilience, and healing. The play follows a young couple struggling to navigate life after a devastating accident kills their child.

Muraski, who has previously performed at BCP, plays Becca, the grieving mother. “Becca’s character is authentic and relatable. Her pain often leaves her easily triggered, but she has a deeply rooted maternal instinct. Even through her grief, she shows strength, intelligence, introspection, and even wit,” she shared.

She also spoke about her character’s journey throughout the play. “Becca starts finding comfort and joy in small but meaningful ways—like taking a class, forming a supportive connection with a young man who also needs guidance, and rebuilding her relationship with her husband.”

Written by David Lindsay-Abaire, Rabbit Hole won the 2007 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and masterfully balances deep emotions with moments of humor. Dottie Fischer directs the BCP production from February 8 through March 1 at the Little Firehouse Theatre in Oradell.

Get Your Tickets

🎭 Online: www.bcplayers.org
📞 Phone: 201-261-4200
📍 Box Office: 298 Kinderkamack Road, Oradell

Don’t miss this moving and unforgettable performance featuring Parsippany’s own Lauren Muraski!

Parsippany Students Sweep Italian Contest and Embrace Exciting Opportunities

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Jan 31, 2025