Parsippany Smoke Shop Employee Charged in Multi-Agency Investigation Targeting Illegal Smoke Shops

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Jul 11, 2026

PARSIPPANY — Ashley Naranjo Belaczar, an employee of Green Lux Smoke Shop at 974 Tabor Road, was charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance as part of a multi-agency investigation into illegal smoke shops across Morris County, according to Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Randolph Police Department Chief Keith Donovan, Boonton Police Chief Chris Petonak, Montville Police Chief Andrew Caggiano, Roxbury Police Chief Matthew Holland, Denville Police Chief Scott Welsch, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Richard Pantina.

The charge against the Parsippany employee was one of dozens filed as part of a broader crackdown that also targeted businesses in Boonton, Montville Township, Randolph Township, and Roxbury Township. The investigation was conducted in furtherance of the New Jersey Attorney General’s initiative targeting smoke shops that sell illegal flavored vapes, intoxicating hemp products, and marijuana.

The Parsippany Police Department was among the agencies that participated in the investigation, joining the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Operations Division, the Randolph Township Police Department, the Boonton Police Department, the Montville Township Police Department, the Roxbury Police Department, the Denville Township Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, the Morris County Office of Emergency Management, Morris County Weights and Measures, the Morris County Division of Health, and personnel from local municipal health departments.

Beginning in April 2026, investigators focused on eleven stores across the county, including Green Lux Smoke Shop in Parsippany, that were allegedly selling marijuana, intoxicating hemp products including tetrahydrocannabinol vapes, and illegally flavored vapes without a license or permit to operate as a cannabis dispensary.

On July 1, 2026, eleven search warrants were executed simultaneously at the businesses, as well as at a residence and a vehicle. Investigators seized the following items as evidence:

17,323 tobacco flavored vapes
56,699 units of tetrahydrocannabinol vapes, approximately 125.5 pounds
328 pounds of gummies and edibles
16.5 pounds of marijuana
approximately 100 canisters of nitrous oxide
$45,265.32 in currency

Authorities said the investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be filed if appropriate.

Green Lux Smoke Shop, 974 Tabor Road, Parsippany

Ashley Naranjo Belaczar, an employee, was charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance.

Ten other individuals were charged in connection with businesses outside Parsippany as part of the same investigation:

Vape Waves Smoke Shop, 440 Main Road, Montville Township

Dhafer Ghaleb, owner, and Ali Alsaydi, employee, were each charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled dangerous substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, money laundering, unlawful possession of toxic chemicals inhaled to cause intoxication, and unlawful possession of toxic chemicals for sale for the purpose of intoxication.

True Blaze Smoke Shop, also known as Wah Wah 2 Smoke Shop LLC, 504 Myrtle Avenue, Boonton

Firas Damra and Madhat Abunasser, owners, were each charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled dangerous substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, money laundering, and possession of a controlled dangerous substance. David Grzesiak, employee, was charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled dangerous substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, money laundering, possession with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Green Lux Smoke Shop, Roxbury Township

Sandra Porras was charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, money laundering, possession with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Crown Cigar and Smoke, 131 Hawkins Place, Boonton

Srinivasa Koppisetti, owner, was charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled dangerous substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, unlawful possession of a controlled dangerous substance, money laundering, unlawful possession of toxic chemicals inhaled to cause intoxication, and unlawful possession of toxic chemicals for sale for the purpose of intoxication.

Heritage Marketplace, 1272 Sussex Turnpike, Randolph Township

Goktan Ozdemir, manager, and Levent Unal, employee, were each charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled dangerous substances and possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance.

MK Mini Mart, 760 Route 46, Roxbury Township

Devinder Singh, owner, Amit Pundir, employee, and Dinesh Chander, employee, were each charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled dangerous substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, unlawful possession of a controlled dangerous substance, money laundering, unlawful possession of toxic chemicals for sale for the purpose of intoxication, unlawful possession of toxic chemicals inhaled to cause intoxication, possession with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sweet Dreams, Roxbury Township

Anthony Castro, employee, was charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, money laundering, possession with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

M&S Convenience and Cigar, 707 Main Street, Boonton

Mead Almontaser, owner, was charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled dangerous substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, unlawful possession of a controlled dangerous substance, money laundering, unlawful possession of toxic chemicals for sale for the purpose of intoxication, unlawful possession of toxic chemicals inhaled to cause intoxication, possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance involving psilocybin, and possession of a controlled dangerous substance involving psilocybin under one ounce.

Stardust Smoke Shop, 1206 Sussex Turnpike, Randolph Township

Jigarkumar Patel, Riya Patel, and Meet Patel, part-owners, were each charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled dangerous substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, unlawful possession of a controlled dangerous substance, money laundering, possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance involving psilocybin, and possession of a controlled dangerous substance involving psilocybin under one ounce.

Search warrants were also executed at Smoke and Deli in Boonton, which resulted in a written warning being issued for a first offense of offering for sale less than one ounce of marijuana. No charges were filed against that business.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll said, “I acknowledge and thank all the agencies who participated in this investigation to disrupt and dismantle the illegal sale of marijuana, intoxicating hemp, and illegal flavored vapes from these businesses operating in our communities. The scale of the operation could not have been accomplished without the professional men and women involved, including detectives, assistant prosecutors, and civilians, who worked collaboratively to make this operation a success.”

Montville Police Chief Andrew Caggiano, past president of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, said, “This operation represents months of coordinated work between county and municipal law enforcement, health officials, and prosecutors to address a problem that has been hiding in plain sight in our neighborhoods. Smoke shops that sell unlicensed marijuana, intoxicating hemp products, and illegally flavored vapes are not harmless corner stores. They are unregulated points of sale for products that our laws were specifically designed to control, whether because of their appeal to young people, their lack of any safety testing, or their connection to untaxed and unlicensed markets.”

Collingswood Police Chief Kevin Carey, president of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, said, “The volume of contraband recovered on July 1, tens of thousands of vape products, hundreds of pounds of edibles and marijuana, and tens of thousands of dollars in cash, makes clear that this was not a handful of isolated infractions. It was a pattern of businesses operating outside the licensing and public health framework that New Jersey has put in place for cannabis and hemp products, and profiting from it. I want to be clear that this is not the end of this work. Police chiefs across New Jersey will keep working with our municipal partners to identify and act on businesses that put profit ahead of the safety of our residents and children.”

The prosecution of the defendants will be handled by Senior Assistant Prosecutor Erin Callahan and Assistant Prosecutor Matthew Kelly.

Editor’s Note: 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 Library Now Offers Passport Services

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 11, 2026

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PARSIPPANY — Residents preparing for international travel now have a convenient option close to home. The Parsippany Library has become an official United States Passport Acceptance Facility, offering passport application services, passport photographs, and document review under one roof.

Passport services are available at the Main Library, 449 Halsey Road, with both walk-ins and appointments accepted.

Passport service hours are Monday and Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The passport service is closed on Sunday.

For additional details or to schedule a passport appointment, click here.

Multiple Parsippany Companies File WARN Notices in 2026

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 11, 2026

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Embassy-Suites — Embassy Suites by Hilton in Parsippany, which filed a WARN notice in May affecting 54 employees, effective August 14.

PARSIPPANY — Several Parsippany-based companies have filed Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act notices in 2026, affecting a combined total of 243 employees, according to state records. The filings are listed below by company.

Reckitt Benckiser — Notice posted in March, effective March 2 through August 31, affecting 62 employees.
RB Health — Notice posted in March, effective March 2 through August 31, affecting 14 employees.
Mead Johnson — Notice posted in March, effective March 2 through August 31, affecting 18 employees.
Fulton Bank — Notice posted in May, effective July 31 and October 2, affecting 95 employees.
Embassy Suites by Hilton — Notice posted in May, effective August 14, affecting 54 employees.

The federal WARN Act generally requires employers with 100 or more employees to provide 60 days’ advance notice of plant closings and mass layoffs. New Jersey’s state WARN Act imposes additional requirements, including mandatory severance pay in certain circumstances.

The reasons behind the layoffs and whether the positions affected are being relocated, eliminated, or restructured were not detailed in the notices.

Morris County Sons of Italy Annual Charity Golf Outing Deemed a Success

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 10, 2026

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PARSIPPANY — The Morris County Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 held its annual charity golf outing on Thursday, July 9, at Knoll West Country Club, with the event selling out once again.

The outing included 18 holes of golf in scramble format, complete with a cart, buffet lunch, dinner, drinks on the course, an open bar following the round, prizes, and other giveaways.

This year’s outing was held in memory of past members Joseph Jannarone Sr. and Adam Gragnani.

Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 is a nonprofit organization that contributes thousands of dollars annually to charities and families in need. According to the organization, 100 percent of funds raised go directly back to local families, including support for the Parsippany Food Pantry, Interfaith Food Pantry, The Shelter for Battered Women, Lily’s Hope, and the Alzheimer’s Foundation, along with high school scholarships and other causes.

The organization thanked all those who supported the event, crediting their continued involvement for its ongoing success.

Massachusetts Man Arrested by FBI in Connection with Boonton, New Hampshire Bank Robberies

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 10, 2026

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Boonton-Bank-Robber — The suspect was described as a male who concealed his identity by wearing a ski mask, sunglasses, and gloves. He was armed with a handgun and entered the bank demanding money before fleeing with approximately $12,000 in cash.

BOONTON — A Townsend, Massachusetts, man was arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in connection with two armed bank robberies, including one at a Chase Bank in Boonton, as part of a federal initiative targeting violent crime.

According to a criminal complaint filed in federal court in Concord, New Hampshire, Joseph Sawyer robbed St. Mary’s Bank at 4 Northwest Boulevard in Nashua, New Hampshire, on Friday, June 12, and the Chase Bank at 530 Myrtle Avenue in Boonton on Saturday, June 27. During both robberies, the complaint alleges Sawyer brandished what appeared to be a black semi-automatic handgun and ordered those inside the banks to get on the ground and surrender their cell phones.

The arrest was made as part of Operation Summer Heat 2.0, an FBI initiative aimed at reducing violent crime. Sawyer was arrested by the FBI Albany Division’s SWAT team after the FBI’s Boston Division developed information indicating he may be in upstate New York.

The FBI credited the Nashua Police Department, the New Jersey State Police, the New York State Police, the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, and FBI New Jersey for their assistance in the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.

Editor’s Note: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Homeless Man Arrested on Criminal Warrant at Red-Carpet Inn

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Police Reports

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Jul 10, 2026

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The Morris County Correctional Facility, located at 43 John Street in Morris Township, serves as the primary detention center operated by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Patrol Officer Carlos Najera arrested Samuel Poff, 57, who is currently homeless, on Thursday, June 25, on a criminal warrant issued by the Parsippany Municipal Court.

According to police, Hanover Township Patrol Officer Najera was checking the Red Carpet Inn when he came across two people sitting in the parking lot. A records check found that Poff was wanted on a criminal warrant stemming from a prior shoplifting charge.

Poff was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters for processing. Upon completion, he was transported to the Parsippany Police Department and turned over to that agency. He was later lodged in the Morris County Jail pending a detention hearing.

Editor’s Note: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Lake Hiawatha Man Charged with DWI, Refusing Breath Test After Anonymous Tip

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Police Reports

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Jul 10, 2026

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DWI-1 — Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

PARSIPPANY — A Lake Hiawatha man was charged with driving while intoxicated and refusing to submit to a chemical breath test after officers responded to a report of a running, occupied vehicle with possibly intoxicated occupants on Saturday, April 11, according to Patrol Officer Sean Golden of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department.

According to Patrol Officer Golden, he and Patrol Officer Cavaluzzo were dispatched at approximately 1:29 a.m. to the area of 79 North Beverwyck Road in Lake Hiawatha following an anonymous call. Upon arrival, Patrol Officer Golden located a 2009 Nissan Altima parked on Hiawatha Boulevard with its engine running and lights on, occupied by a male driver and a female passenger. He reported observing an open container of Modelo beer in the center console cup holder.

Patrol Officer Golden said that when he approached the vehicle, the driver, later identified as Ignacio Servantes-Maceda, 40, of Lake Hiawatha, rolled down the window. Patrol Officer Golden reported detecting the odor of alcohol and observing watery eyes and slurred speech. When asked if he had consumed alcohol, Servantes-Maceda said he had “some.”

Servantes-Maceda was asked to step out of the vehicle to perform standardized field sobriety tests. According to police, he missed heel-to-toe contact on every step of the walk-and-turn test and stopped partway through both that test and a subsequent attempt to restart it. During the one-leg-stand test, Servantes-Maceda held his hands together for balance instead of at his sides and began to lose his balance shortly after raising his foot, prompting Patrol Officer Golden to end the testing for safety reasons. When asked again how much he had consumed, Servantes-Maceda said “maybe six” beers.

Servantes-Maceda was placed under arrest, searched, and secured in a patrol vehicle before being transported to police headquarters. There, he was advised of his Miranda rights and read the standard statement for driving under the influence. Police said he declined to consent to a chemical breath test when asked twice, and Patrol Officer Cavaluzzo, a trained Alcotest operator, processed the refusal. Servantes-Maceda was later transported to complete requirements under John’s Law, and his wife completed and signed the required forms.

Patrol Officer Golden charged Servantes-Maceda with the following offenses:

Driving while intoxicated
Refusal to submit to chemical test
Refusal to consent to breath testing
Driving after license suspension or revocation
Open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle
Reckless driving

Editor’s Note: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Lake Hiawatha Man Charged with Assault by Auto After Fleeing Crash, Later Arrested for Driving Under the Influence

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Police Reports

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Jul 10, 2026

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dwi — Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

PARSIPPANY — A Lake Hiawatha man was charged with assault by auto and leaving the scene of an accident after fleeing a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of North Beverwyck Road and Vail Road on Monday, June 1, and was later arrested that evening on a driving-while-intoxicated charge, according to Patrol Officer Jaime Mendez of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department.

According to Patrol Officer Mendez, the crash occurred at approximately 7:48 p.m. when a vehicle traveling southbound on North Beverwyck Road ran a red light at a high rate of speed and struck a second vehicle that was crossing the intersection westbound on Vail Road with the right of way. The driver of the second vehicle, Michael R. Lambert, 34, of Lake Hiawatha, reported the crash to police.

Patrol Officer Mendez said the striking vehicle fled the scene southbound on North Beverwyck Road, an act captured on traffic camera footage. His investigation determined the driver caused the crash due to unsafe speed and failure to observe the traffic signal, and that the vehicle was uninsured at the time.

Later that evening, at approximately 8:40 p.m., Patrol Officer Mendez was conducting a driving-while-intoxicated investigation in the area of Oneida Avenue involving Miguel Angel Salazar Salazar, 30, of Lake Hiawatha. After Salazar Salazar was administered a standard field sobriety test, Patrol Officer Mendez placed him under arrest on a charge of driving under the influence and transported him to the Montville Police Department for an Alcotest breath examination.

Patrol Officer Mendez subsequently charged Salazar Salazar in connection with the original crash with the following offenses:

Assault by auto
Leaving the scene of an accident involving personal injury
Failure to report an accident
Driving under the influence
Failure to exhibit a driver’s license
Failure to exhibit vehicle registration
Failure to exhibit an insurance card
Driving while suspended
Operating a vehicle in unsafe condition
Improper maintenance of lamps
Delaying traffic
Disregarding a traffic control device
Improper lane usage (traffic on marked lanes)
Reckless driving
Careless driving

Editor’s Note: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Parsippany Hills High School Senior Awarded Spencer Savings Bank Scholarship

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 10, 2026

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PARSIPPANY — Prableen Kaur, a senior at Parsippany Hills High School, has been awarded a $1,500 scholarship from Spencer Savings Bank as part of the bank’s 2026 scholarship program.

Kaur was one of 26 New Jersey high school students selected by their school’s guidance department to receive the scholarship, which totaled almost $40,000 across all recipients this year. Since the program began in 2002, Spencer Savings Bank has awarded more than $700,000 in scholarships to local students.

Kaur and her family attended a scholarship ceremony held at the Spencer Savings Bank financial center in Elmwood Park on June 24, where students enjoyed a buffet dinner and connected with the bank’s executive and senior leadership teams.

“As tuition costs continue to rise, community support is critical in making higher education accessible to students. At Spencer, we are committed to providing this support and removing financial barriers,” said Jose B. Guerrero, chairman, chief executive officer, and president of Spencer Savings Bank.

Spencer Savings Bank, a New Jersey-based community bank, has served local communities for more than 130 years. The bank has about $4 billion in total assets and operates 27 financial centers throughout New Jersey.

New Jersey Highlands Coalition Presents Solo Exhibition of Paintings by George Chiavelli

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 9, 2026

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George-Chiavelli — George Chiavelli stands beside one of his paintings featured in "Reflections," his debut solo exhibition on view at the historic Maxfield Engine House in Boonton through August 1.

MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Highlands Coalition is presenting “Reflections,” a solo exhibition of paintings by Hopatcong resident George Chiavelli, at the historic Maxfield Engine House, 713 Main Street, Boonton, through August 1.

The exhibit, Chiavelli’s debut solo show, traces seven years of his artistic development, moving away from a traditional retrospective format to reveal an evolving dialogue between the artist, his materials, and his process.

“The title carries more than one meaning,” Chiavelli said. “There is the act of looking back personally, watching ideas grow, shift, and sharpen over years of making. And there is the reflection that happens in the studio every day, the ongoing dialogue between paint, canvas, and self. Some works in the show take that idea further, becoming reflections of themselves, the process turning back on its own image.”

Chiavelli will host a free Artist Talk on Saturday, July 18, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., facilitated by local architect Eric Bieber, offering insight into his artistic process and the ideas behind the exhibition.

The exhibit is free and open to the public, with visiting hours posted at highlandsart.org. Exhibited works are for sale, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the New Jersey Highlands Coalition, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting the forests, water, and wildlife of the Highlands region for future generations. The organization says the region supplies clean drinking water to 6.2 million New Jersey residents.

A free closing reception will be held Saturday, August 1, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Mayor Suspends Road Redesign to Address Resident Concerns

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 9, 2026

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PARSIPPANY — A group of residents from Forest Drive, Woodland Drive, Pitt Road, and the surrounding neighborhood has submitted a petition to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council opposing a road reconstruction project affecting the area, according to a letter addressed to township officials.

The letter, submitted by Matteo Proietto of Woodland Drive on behalf of the group, states that residents oppose the project and asks the council to halt the work.

A letter distributed to residents by the township’s Engineering Department stated that construction work would include tree removal, curb installation, water system improvements, storm drainage work, road widening and realignment, and the removal of existing pavement and construction of new pavement. The letter was dated June 22 and stated that tree removal could begin by June 24, with construction work set to begin days later, on or about June 29.

Residents wrote that after reviewing that notice, along with correspondence from Mayor Pulkit Desai, it became apparent to them that the project was more extensive than routine paving work.

The letter from residents states that they were not consulted in a timely manner before the project began, and that the Engineering Department’s notice gave what residents described as little opportunity to review plans, ask questions, or provide input before work started.

“This neighborhood has been carefully preserved for generations. Once these changes are made, they cannot be undone,” said Matteo Proietto.

Council President Judy Hernandez addressed the project during a recent council discussion.

A mature tree along Forest Drive is draped with patriotic bunting, symbolizing residents’ efforts to preserve the neighborhood’s wooded character as they oppose the township’s proposed road redesign and tree removals.

“I am an environmentalist, you all know that, and I am not for cutting down the trees. I need to have it proven, and you’re right, trees are the most important thing, and they do cut down trees in this town. We have to have an ordinance in this town, which we don’t have yet, with replacement for any removal, and I want to see why they’re cutting these trees down. I want to see why,” Hernandez said. “I’m also an engineer, and the curve in the road does slow down traffic, and I know that road, because I used to canvass that road a lot, and it’s a beautiful area. However, I do understand that there’s a lot of problems with sewage and stormwater, and so we need to talk to the engineers and find out what their plans are for that infrastructure. They might be thinking that they’re doing a good thing with these curbs, because a lot of people do like them, but as this neighborhood has complained about it, let’s see what’s going on, and of course we need to talk to the mayor too, because the mayor is part of this as well.”

Mayor Pulkit Desai, Business Administrator Khaled Madin and Township Attorney Joseph DeMarco held a meeting directly following the council meeting. “The purpose of this meeting is to get feedback so we can go and sit with the contractor and the engineer and look at adjustments,” said Madin.

Mayor Desai explained that the project was budgeted and designed years ago, and that the practice of sending out short‑notice letters before road work has carried through multiple administrations.

Both Councilman Paul Carifi Jr. and Council President Judy Hernandez agreed that curb installation and road widening appear unnecessary, unless the township engineer can demonstrate a compelling safety or drainage reason.

Because the township’s chief engineer is on vacation, a final decision will be delayed. However, Mayor Pulkit Desai and Township Clerk Khaled Madin assured residents they will present a proposed compromise before the next Township Council meeting. Until then, all work on Forest Drive and Woodland Drive will remain suspended.

Video: Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – July 7, 2026

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 9, 2026

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2026Council — Councilmen Matthew Kavanugh, Paul Carfi, Jr., Matthew McGraft (standing), President Judy Hernandez and Vice President Diya Patel

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council held its Agenda Meeting on Tuesday, July 7, at 7:00 p.m. Click here to download the agenda.

Michele Reilly Named Morris County’s New Clerk of the Board

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 9, 2026

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MORRIS COUNTY — Michele Reilly has joined Morris County as the new Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners, filling the vacancy created by the retirement of longtime Clerk of the Board Debra Lynch.

Reilly officially joined Morris County on May 19 and assumed the role of clerk of the board on July 1.

She brings 18 years of municipal government experience, including nearly a decade as Jefferson Township clerk, where she served as secretary to the governing body and managed statutory responsibilities including maintaining official records, administering elections, overseeing public notices, processing Open Public Records Act requests, and handling municipal licensing.

Reilly is a Registered Municipal Clerk and Certified Municipal Registrar.

Developers Refinance The District at 15Fifteen with $188 Million Loan

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 9, 2026

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Smyth-1515 — Smyth at District 15Fifteen, the first luxury residential building in Parsippany’s transformative mixed-use development, offers modern living with resort-style amenities and immediate occupancy.

PARSIPPANY — The developers of The District at 15Fifteen, a large mixed-use development in Parsippany, have refinanced the project with a $188 million loan arranged by Cushman and Wakefield.

According to a news release, Affinius Capital provided the floating-rate financing for the property, which includes 498 residential units and 58,789 square feet of retail space spread across three buildings at 1515 Route 10. The refinancing follows completion of the project by a development team consisting of Claremont Development, Stanbery Development Group and PCCP LLC, which converted a former office campus into what brokers described as the largest mixed-use development in Morris County.

John Alascio, Chuck Kohaut and Meredith Donovan of Cushman and Wakefield’s debt and structured finance team arranged the financing on behalf of the borrowers, with additional support from capital markets specialists Niko Nicolaou and Ryan Dowd.

“The significant lender demand for this offering reflected the strength of the sponsorship, the unmatched quality of the asset and the leasing momentum achieved since delivery,” said Kohaut, an executive director at Cushman and Wakefield. “The District at 15Fifteen has established itself as the premier mixed-use destination in Morris County, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to represent the sponsorship again on this transformative project.”

The development includes a mix of market-rate, age-restricted and affordable housing units, along with a standalone retail pavilion set beside a landscaped pedestrian plaza designed to host community events and outdoor activities. Retail tenants at the property include restaurants, fitness operators and service-oriented businesses catering to both residents and the surrounding community. The site offers more than 1,000 parking spaces, along with amenities including resident lounges, fitness centers, coworking space, a pool and outdoor gathering areas.

Discover Strength, a strength training studio, recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate its opening, becoming the first retail tenant to officially open its doors at the development, according to Frank Cahill, Chairman of Parsippany Economic Development.

Several additional tenants are preparing to open in the coming months. On the dining side, those include Kura Revolving Sushi Bar, Burton’s Grill and Bar, Meximodo, Al-Basha, Haraz Coffee House, O’Bagel, Pure Green and Home Town Creamery. In the fitness and wellness category, Yoga Six, Jetset Pilates and The Yard Gym are also expected to open, along with Moxie Salon and Beauty Bar. According to Stanbery Development Group, the retail component of the development is now more than 65 percent leased, with one food and beverage space still available.

The 13-acre property has direct access to Interstate 287, Route 202 and Interstate 80, providing connections to Newark Liberty International Airport, Jersey City, Hoboken and Manhattan. The site is also surrounded by major corporate headquarters and a wide range of retail and dining establishments.

Parsippany Retail Center Sells for More Than $9.1 Million

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 8, 2026

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PARSIPPANY — A highway retail center here has changed hands for more than $9.1 million, brokers with Marcus & Millichap.

The fully occupied property, located at 745 Route 46, has six units totaling 32,432 square feet on a 4.1-acre footprint, according to a news release. Tenants include Harbor Freight, which anchors the center while occupying 55 percent of the gross leasable area, along with other retail, restaurant, service and medical tenants.

Marcus & Millichap’s Alan Cafiero, David Cafiero and John Moroz marketed the property on the seller’s behalf and procured the buyer in the $9.11 million deal.

“Parsippany continues to be one of the strongest retail investment markets in the country, driven by dense population, limited new supply and resilient consumer demand,” said Alan Cafiero, senior managing director for investments with Marcus & Millichap. “This property’s combination of stable cash flow, diversified tenancy and outstanding highway access made it a compelling investment opportunity that attracted significant buyer interest.”

The property was built in 1962 and renovated in 2014. It is part of a Route 46 corridor filled with restaurants and retailers, with easy access to Route 202 and interstates 80, 287 and 280, among other highways.

Lake Hiawatha Resident Earns Journalism Degree from University of Tampa

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 8, 2026

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PARSIPPANY — Isabella Ferrou of Lake Hiawatha graduated from the University of Tampa with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism during the university’s 162nd commencement ceremony, held on Saturday, May 9.

Ferrou was among 1,992 degree-seeking candidates honored at the ceremony.

The University of Tampa is a private, comprehensive university located on 110 acres along the riverfront in downtown Tampa, Florida. Known for academic excellence, personal attention and community-engaged experiential learning in its undergraduate and graduate programs, the university offers about 200 programs of study and serves approximately 11,400 students from all 50 states and most of the world’s countries.

Gerald R. Salerno Joins Einhorn, Barbarito, Frost, Botwinick, Nunn & Musmanno

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 8, 2026

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PARSIPPANY — Gerald R. Salerno has joined Einhorn, Barbarito, Frost, Botwinick, Nunn & Musmanno, P.C. as a partner at the firm’s office at 4 Campus Drive, Suite 300.

Salerno focuses his practice on complex civil and commercial litigation, commercial real estate and transactional matters, zoning and land use, and redevelopment matters. He represents businesses, developers, redevelopers, financial institutions, municipalities, and local boards throughout New Jersey.

He currently serves as Borough Attorney for East Rutherford, Land Use Board Attorney for Wood-Ridge, Planning Board Attorney for Rutherford, and Acting Public Defender for the Pascack Joint Municipal Court. His prior public-sector roles include Special Redevelopment Counsel to the Lodi Planning Board, counsel to the Upper Saddle River Zoning Board of Adjustment, and prosecutor for the boroughs of Wood-Ridge and Oradell.

Salerno is a past president of the Bergen County Bar Association and served for six years as the Bergen County representative to the New Jersey State Bar Association’s Judicial and Prosecutorial Appointments Committee. He has been named to New Jersey Super Lawyers and The Best Lawyers in America in the areas of bet-the-company litigation and commercial litigation.

Salerno earned his law degree from Georgetown University in 1985 and graduated magna cum laude from Seton Hall University in 1982. He previously served as law clerk to the Honorable Charles R. DiGisi, presiding criminal judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Bergen County.

Video: Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – July 6, 2026

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 7, 2026

0

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – July 6, 2026.

Click here to download the agenda.

Parsippany Library Invites Community to “Unearth a Story” for Summer Reading 2026

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 7, 2026

0

Storytime in a colorful library — File photo: Children listen attentively as a librarian reads during a storytime session, illustrating the type of engaging, interactive experience families can expect during International Children’s Book Week at the Parsippany Library’s Lake Hiawatha Branch.

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Library is inviting the community to unearth a story this summer, announcing the return of its annual Summer Reading Program, which runs through Saturday, August 15, 2026.

Readers of all ages are invited to participate in the community-wide reading challenge, which encourages children, teenagers, and adults to explore new books, discover new ideas, and celebrate the joy of reading throughout the summer. Participants can track their reading through Beanstack, earn raffle tickets and prizes, and enjoy incentives tailored to each age group, whether they are reading a favorite novel, listening to an audiobook, or discovering something new.

This year’s theme, Unearth a Story, celebrates the adventures that can be found through books, from mysteries and distant worlds to family histories, memorable characters, and nonfiction.

“Summer Reading is one of the Library’s most anticipated traditions,” said Rose Schulman, Head of Children’s Services at the Main Library and Branch Manager at Mount Tabor Branch Library. “Whether you’re reading your very first picture book, discovering your next favorite author, or revisiting a classic, every story has the power to inspire curiosity and bring people together. We invite everyone in our community to join us this summer and unearth a story.”

The program is open to readers of all ages and welcomes all reading formats, including print books, electronic books, and audiobooks.

Summer Reading offers age-appropriate reading challenges with prizes designed to encourage reading throughout the summer.

Children from birth through fifth grade will track the time they spend reading, earning raffle tickets and weekly prizes as they reach reading milestones. Teenagers in grades six through twelve will earn raffle tickets by logging books throughout the summer, increasing their chances of winning prizes.

Adults will earn raffle tickets by reading books and receive special rewards throughout the challenge. After reading three books, participants can pick up a complimentary copy of “The Maid” by Nita Prose, this year’s Community Read selection, while supplies last. Adults who complete six books in total will receive a commemorative Parsippany Library mini tote bag, while supplies last.

Raffle winners across all age groups will be selected after Summer Reading concludes and notified by email.

Community members can register by creating an account or logging in to Beanstack at parsippanylibrary.beanstack.org, or by downloading the Beanstack mobile application. Summer Reading is happening now and concludes on Saturday, August 15, which is also the final day to log reading and submit raffle tickets.

Programs, prizes, and reading activities will take place throughout the summer at the Main Library, Lake Hiawatha Branch Library, and Mount Tabor Branch Library.

Visit parsippanylibrary.org to learn more about Summer Reading, upcoming programs, and how to register through Beanstack. Summer Reading is free to participate in and open to all community members. For more information about Parsippany Library, visit www.parsippanylibrary.org or call (973) 887-5150.

The Parsippany Library serves a diverse community of more than 56,000 residents across three locations: Parsippany, Lake Hiawatha, and Mount Tabor. Through its membership in the Main Library Alliance, patrons also have borrowing access to materials from over 50 libraries across Essex, Hunterdon, Morris, Somerset, Union, and Warren counties.

Vehicle Goes Into Lake Parsippany, Occupant Taken to Hospital

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Jul 7, 2026

0

PARSIPPANY — A vehicle drove into Lake Parsippany near the intersection of Lake Shore Drive and Adelphia Road Tuesday afternoon, prompting a water rescue response.

The incident occurred around 4:30 p.m., according to preliminary information. Rescue personnel, including a dive team, responded to the scene and worked to reach the vehicle, which came to rest partially submerged in the lake.

The female driver, 27, of the 2016 Mini Cooper was transported to a nearby hospital by Morris County Emergency Medical Services. Her condition has not been released.

The circumstances that led to the vehicle entering the water remain under investigation. This is a developing story, and Parsippany Focus will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Green Lux Smoke Shop, 974 Tabor Road, Parsippany

Vape Waves Smoke Shop, 440 Main Road, Montville Township

True Blaze Smoke Shop, also known as Wah Wah 2 Smoke Shop LLC, 504 Myrtle Avenue, Boonton

Green Lux Smoke Shop, Roxbury Township

Crown Cigar and Smoke, 131 Hawkins Place, Boonton

Heritage Marketplace, 1272 Sussex Turnpike, Randolph Township

MK Mini Mart, 760 Route 46, Roxbury Township

Sweet Dreams, Roxbury Township

M&S Convenience and Cigar, 707 Main Street, Boonton

Stardust Smoke Shop, 1206 Sussex Turnpike, Randolph Township

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