MORRIS COUNTY — EMS and Chester Township Police officers responded to a 911 call on the afternoon of June 6 at a residence on Pottersville Road, where a 35-year-old resident was found dead.
The Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of death to be multiple sharp force injuries, and ruled the manner of death a homicide.
The case remains an active and ongoing investigation by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Chester Township Police Department, and Morris County Sheriff’s Office CSI. No further information will be released at this time in order to protect the integrity of the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit via the Morris County Communications Center at (973) 285-2900, Chester Police at (908) 879-5100, or Crimestoppers at (973) 267-2255.
PARSIPPANY — A New Jersey Department of Transportation mower overturned Thursday, June 18, along Interstate 80 in Parsippany-Troy Hills, but no injuries were reported, according to New Jersey State Police.
Troopers responded at approximately 9:45 a.m. to the westbound local lanes of Interstate 80 near milepost 45.6.
A preliminary investigation found that an NJDOT mower was being operated on the grass shoulder of the highway when it struck a guardrail post and overturned, State Police spokesperson Trooper II Christopher Postorino said.
No injuries were reported at the scene.
The crash remains under investigation, and no additional information was immediately available.
Mount Tabor Volunteer Fire Department members Luke Sadowski, Colleen Hayes and Tyler Foley are joined by Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Judy Hernandez during the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Touch-A-Truck event at Liquid Church. The annual event gave families an opportunity to explore emergency vehicles, construction equipment and service vehicles while supporting community programs for local children and families.
PARSIPPANY — The 2026 Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Touch-A-Truck event was another tremendous success, bringing together families, community organizations, businesses, first responders, and volunteers for a day of fun while raising more than $5,000 to benefit local children and families.
Clean Water Cafe is a nonprofit coffeehouse located inside Liquid Church at 299 Webro Road in Parsippany. The café serves coffee, breakfast, lunch, and grab-and-go items while supporting charitable efforts that help provide clean water around the world.Morris County Aktion Club President Patty Licht is joined by Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Pulkit Desai during the 2026 Touch-A-Truck event hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. Aktion Club is the only service organization in the world dedicated specifically to adults with disabilities, providing members opportunities to develop leadership skills, serve their communities, and build lasting friendships through volunteer service projects and community involvement. The Morris County Aktion Club is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.
Hosted once again at Liquid Church, the annual event featured an impressive lineup of trucks, emergency vehicles, equipment displays, live entertainment, activities for children, and community engagement throughout the day.
Mayor Pulkit Desai and Council President Judy Hernandez pose with representatives of The Learning Experience during the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Touch-A-Truck event at Liquid Church. The annual family-friendly event featured hands-on activities, community organizations, emergency vehicles and heavy equipment while raising funds to support local children and families.
“Touch-A-Truck continues to be one of the best examples of what makes Parsippany such a special community,” said Pulkit Desai. “Families come together, businesses and volunteers step up to help, and organizations like Kiwanis create opportunities that directly benefit local children and families. I am grateful to everyone who participated and helped make this event another outstanding success.”
Dhaval (DJ) Bhatt of Unity Bank, Parsippany resident Justin Musella, and Randolph Councilman Joe Hathaway speak during the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Touch-A-Truck event at Liquid Church. The annual event brought together local businesses, organizations, and families while raising funds to support programs benefiting children and families throughout the community.
Event Chairman Nicolas Limanov expressed his appreciation to everyone who contributed to the event’s success. “The support we receive from our community continues to be incredible,” Limanov said. “From our volunteers and sponsors to our exhibitors, first responders, entertainers, and families who attend, every person plays a role in making Touch-A-Truck such a meaningful event. Raising more than $5,000 for programs that serve local children and families is something we can all be proud of.”
Members of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit conduct a live demonstration during the 2026 Touch-A-Truck event hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany at Liquid Church. Attendees watched as the highly trained K-9 teams showcased obedience, tracking, and law enforcement techniques while educating families about the important role police dogs play in public safety.
Special recognition was given to Mayor Desai, Frank Cahill Kenny Sanford, Billy Sanford, the Parsippany Department of Public Works, Parks Department personnel, and Captain Carney for their continued support in helping make the event possible.
The day also featured outstanding musical performances from School of Rock Parsippany and the Hannah Ray Teal Band, providing entertainment that kept attendees engaged throughout the event.
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany also extended a special thank you to Outback Steakhouse for stepping in at the last minute to provide complimentary meals for first responders, as well as ShopRite for donating bubbles that delighted children throughout the day.
Club leaders also thanked the event’s exhibitors, sponsors, and community partners whose ongoing support has helped make Touch-A-Truck one of the area’s most anticipated family events.
With another successful year in the books, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is already looking forward to welcoming the community back for the 2027 Touch-A-Truck event.
Families enjoyed exploring a Saraceno Companies garbage truck during the 2026 Touch-A-Truck event hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany at Liquid Church. The annual fundraiser brought together children, parents, first responders, businesses, and community organizations while raising more than $5,000 to support local children and families.Nick Limanov, chairman of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Touch-A-Truck event, is joined by members of the Outback Steakhouse team during the 2026 Touch-A-Truck fundraiser at Liquid Church in Parsippany. Outback Steakhouse provided complimentary meals for first responders and helped support the event, which raised more than $5,000 for local community programs benefiting children and families.
Bruce Kelly, Elizabeth Haywood, Nick, Frank Neglia, Frank Cahill, Robert Peluso, Ildiko Peluso, Valley Bank CEO Ira Robbins, Mayor Desai, Robert Peluso, Councilman Paul Carifi, Sharmishta Patel, Rakhi Shah Desai, Jenita Patel, Meeta Shah and Bhavika Jani
PARSIPPANY — Valley Bank, located in Arlington Plaza, celebrated its 50th anniversary of serving the community, showcasing how the bank makes a difference through exceptional service and lasting relationships. Valley Bank has two locations in Parsippany serving the community.
The celebration featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by CEO Ira Robbins, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Pulkit Desai, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Ildiko Peluso, Elizabeth Haywood, the Valley Bank team, customers, community members and Chamber representatives, commemorating five decades of service in Parsippany.
Ildiko Peluso, Valley Bank CEO Ira Robins, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Secretary Nick Sota, Mayor Desai, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Robert Peluso, Councilman Paul Carifi and Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development member Mahesh Prajapati.
Representing the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce were President Robert Peluso and board members.
Food was catered by Parsippany’s Best Pizza and Gourmet Cafe Italian Restaurant.
With more than 85 guests in attendance, the event brought together Valley Bank leaders, including Ira Robbins, Mark Beausoleil, Paul Roberts, Ildiko Peluso and the Parsippany team, along with local officials. Mayor Pulkit Desai, Councilman Paul Carifi Jr., Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill and committee members presented Valley Bank with a commemorative plaque honoring its 50 years of service to the township.
Meeta Shah, Jose Matera, Bhavika Jani, Jenita Patel, Ildiko Peluso, Ira Robbins, Sharmishta Pate, Rakhi Desai, Muhammad Aslam
Entertainment was provided by Parsippany High School student PJ Patrick Cameron on saxophone, while fellow student volunteer Daniel Montez captured the evening through photography.
The evening celebrated 50 years of Valley Bank serving the Parsippany community and looked ahead to many more years of building relationships. As Valley Bank approaches its 100th anniversary, having been established in 1927, the celebration honored both its rich history and its continued commitment to the communities it serves.
CEO Ira Robbins, Ildiko Peluso, Nick Sota, Mayor Desai, Frank Cahill, Robert Peluso and Paul Carifi
“Congratulations Valley Bank on the occasion of your 50th anniversary,” said Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee. “For fifty years, Valley Bank has been a trusted financial partner, supporting businesses, families, and community organizations while helping shape the success and growth of Parsippany and the surrounding region.”
“Valley Bank has been an important part of the Parsippany community for five decades, supporting local businesses, residents, and organizations through every stage of growth,” said Mayor Pulkit Desai. “We are proud to celebrate this milestone and thank Valley Bank for its continued investment in our township and its commitment to building strong relationships that help our community thrive.”
Emotional support animals provide comfort and emotional support to individuals who are diagnosed with mental and emotional conditions. They make great companions and can help relieve stress, provide comfort, and prevent feelings of isolation.
Many people assume that emotional support animals must be registered for them to receive legal protections and benefits. Many websites have differing information about what registering emotional support animals entails.
To understand emotional support animal registration laws, read our sections below.
What Are Emotional Support Animal Registration Laws?
Firstly, it is important to note that despite the popularity of ESA registries, emotional support animals do not have to be registered in a national database. There are no laws requiring IDs, registration, certification, or training for emotional support animals. The registration process has more to do with documentation of the owner’s condition and their eligibility.
Having proper ESA documentation ensures that you can get the full benefits associated with your ESA. The following sections outline the accommodations that registering your emotional support animal legally qualifies you for.
Housing Rights For Emotional Support Animals
According to the Fair Housing Act (FHA), emotional support animals are eligible for reasonable accommodations. An emotional support animal is exempt from no pet policies in buildings and also the standard pet fees. This means that even if your housing provider has a policy barring pets, your ESA will be allowed to live with you.
Public Access and Travel Rules for Emotional Support Animals
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has defined policies relating to service animals for public access. However, these regulations do not apply to emotional support animals, and in these areas, they’re treated the same as pets.
This means that your registered emotional support animal does not have public access rights. While traveling, you will have to adhere to airline pet travel policies as ESAs do not have special provisions beyond those given to pets.
The first step is to obtain an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional. This can be your psychologist, psychiatrist, or therapist. The person will evaluate your medical condition and determine if the support of an ESA will be beneficial for your symptoms.
They will draft a document called an ESA letter, which serves as proof that you are eligible for an emotional support animal. This document may take the LMHP between 1 to 3 days to prepare.
At this point, you can consider the registration of your ESA half-done.
The next step is to provide the ESA letter to your housing provider or landlord. They can take up to a week to validate the contents of your ESA letter, after which your pet will be able to receive housing accommodations.
How long does ESA registration take?
The entire process for ESA registration can take from 1 to 2 weeks. Usually, obtaining the ESA letter from the LMHP is quicker, but the housing provider may take longer for approval.
Common Misconceptions About Emotional Support Animal Registration Laws
There are many misconceptions surrounding ESA registration laws. Many websites advertise ESA registration with services such as pet IDs and certificates of registration. Many services also claim instant ESA registration.
None of these services is consistent with the processes actually required for ESA registration. All you need is a letter from your LMHP, which essentially completes the documentation needed to prove that you benefit from the companionship of your ESA.
How to Stay Compliant With Emotional Support Animal Registration Laws
It is important to be responsible about the registration of your ESA. Once you have the ESA letter, store it in a safe location you can access when needed. You should also keep an eye out for changing ESA laws that may affect their housing accommodations or other aspects of living.
If you haven’t obtained the required documentation from an LMHP for your ESA, be honest about your pet’s ESA status.
These considerations will ensure that you’re getting the support from your ESA while staying within the legal boundaries.
Looking Beyond ESA Registration
Understanding emotional support animal registration laws requires separating common online misconceptions from legal realities. Once that is done, you can enjoy your ESA’s loving companionship for the support you need.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council is set to vote Tuesday on Resolution R2026-145, which would rescind Resolution R2025-200 and revoke the township’s support for Fresh Dispensary Parsippany, LLC’s application to the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission for a Class 5 recreational dispensary license.
The Council originally endorsed Fresh Dispensary’s application in November 2025, when it unanimously approved the company’s bid to open at 3159 Route 46 East, a location shared with A2B Indian Veg Restaurant, Fuddruckers and Days Inn. The endorsement followed a review by the township’s Cannabis Advisory Committee.
The agenda item does not specify the township’s reasoning for the reversal. The action follows a similar move in February, when the Council rescinded its support for Cypher Dispensary, LLC’s application for a Route 46 location after determining the site did not meet the township’s 100-foot residential setback requirement under Section 430-88(F)(11) of the Township Code.
The resolution is listed on the Council’s consent agenda for its June 23 regular meeting. Parsippany Focus will provide an update following the meeting.
Greek Real Estate Partners, in a joint venture with The Hampshire Cos. and third-party capital and advised by Principal Asset Management, are developing a 281,215-square-foot industrial project at 169 Lackawanna Ave. in Parsippany, with substantial completion slated for early 2027.
PARSIPPANY — A joint venture is preparing to break ground on more than 281,000 square feet of new industrial space in Parsippany, in a project that will redevelop a former office property at 169 Lackawanna Avenue.
Greek Real Estate Partners said it is preparing for vertical construction at the site as part of a newly formed partnership with The Hampshire Cos. and third-party capital advised by Principal Asset Management. The move follows a $49 million recapitalization announced last week, along with a $30 million construction loan from Provident Bank.
The 281,215-square-foot warehouse will mark a new chapter for a site with a varied history, having served nearly a century ago as a candy and chocolate plant before becoming a data center for New York Life and, most recently, operating as a multitenant office building.
GREP acquired the then-occupied office building in 2023 and guided it through redevelopment and re-entitlement.
“We are excited to continue growing our presence in the Parsippany market and to redevelop this property alongside outstanding new partners,” said Alex Motiuk, director of acquisitions for Greek Real Estate Partners. “Few sites tell a story like 169 Lackawanna Ave. We are proud to carry it into its next chapter as a modern, highly functional industrial facility built for the users driving demand across the region.”
GREP acquired the then-occupied office building in 2023 and guided it through redevelopment and re-entitlement. The firm’s Greek Design|Build affiliate, serving as general contractor, has completed demolition and site clearing, putting the project on track for substantial completion in the first quarter of 2027.
Plans call for 40-foot clear heights, a 2,500-square-foot speculative office, 39 loading docks, two drive-in ramps and 3,000-amp, three-phase, 480/277-volt electrical service, along with parking for 144 cars and 30 trailers. The features are intended to support a range of industrial users, including those focused on regional distribution, last-mile delivery and supply chain operations, amid limited availability of modern Class A industrial space in that size range.
“We are pleased to partner with Greek Real Estate Partners and Principal Asset Management on the redevelopment of 169 Lackawanna Avenue, a project that reflects our continued conviction in northern New Jersey’s industrial market,” said Christopher Jon Imperatore of The Hampshire Cos. “It is especially exciting to collaborate with Greek, as both Greek and the Hanson families have been doing business in New Jersey for over 100 years.”
Imperatore added that with new supply constrained and demand for modern logistics space remaining strong, the partners believe the project is well-positioned to deliver a high-quality facility and long-term value in a tightening market.
Ryan Greer, vice president of commercial lending at Provident Bank, said the bank is pleased to support an experienced ownership and development group as it advances a market-leading Class A project.
Cushman & Wakefield’s John Alascio, TJ Sullivan, Chuck Kohaut and Nick Scibelli sourced the joint venture equity and debt for the transaction. KBC Advisors’ Marc Petrella, Andrew Siemsen and Sean Kelly are leading the leasing team for the property, which sits minutes from interstates 80 and 287 and routes 46 and 10.
The site is within a one-hour drive of more than 11 million consumers and benefits from proximity to Newark Liberty International Airport and the Port of New York and New Jersey, positioning it to serve last-mile, regional and national distribution users across northern New Jersey, New York City and the broader Northeast.
“We are proud to have arranged the full stack of financing for this exciting project on behalf of the outstanding Greek Real Estate Partners organization,” said Alascio, executive vice chair at Cushman. “169 Lackawanna Ave. will offer state-of-the-art industrial space in an infill, labor-dense northern New Jersey submarket.”
The Smyth at District 15Fifteen, Parsippany's newest luxury apartment building, welcomes residents with modern design, upscale amenities, and retail just steps away.
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 – 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 July 2026, on Route 46 East where three office buildings once stood. In addition, over the last 12 months the Township Council approved numerous properties to be “In Need of Redevelopment”, 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 pre-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 “Last mile Delivery” 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 over 1,101,000 square feet of vacant office buildings once stood.
The former Daiichi Sankyo building at Two Hilton Court
2 Hilton Court was a 172,000 square foot office building constructed in 1990 and was occupied by Diachii Sanko pharmaceutical company. It has been demolished, and a new 122,664 square foot warehouse building is completed, now occupied by US Auto Force.
Seven Campus Drive served as a former location of Centenary College.
7 Campus Drive was a 154,395 square foot office building constructed in 1982 and was occupied by Nabisco Brands in the 1990’s. It has now been demolished for a new 128,150 square foot warehouse building.
Originally occupied by General Motors, 9 Sylvan Way is a 60,111-square-foot, three-story office building that was built in 1988
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 demolished
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
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.
5 Wood Hollow Road
5 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
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 – 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 July 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 – was once a 215,535 square foot office building occupied by Avis/Budget. The site received approvals to demolish the office building and construct a 100,000 square foot Lifetime Athletic Club; which is currently under construction and is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2027.
4 Gatehall Drive is a 247,579 square foot office building constructed in 1989. On June 1, 2026, Toll Brothers was granted approvals to demolish the existing four-story office building and build 178 stacked and non-stacked luxury townhomes for sale (142 Market units and 36 Affordable housing units).
It is my professional opinion that after taking into consideration all the repositioning of existing vacant office buildings into apartment and warehouse buildings and all the future Township approved repositioning of existing vacant office buildings, I feel that the stabilized office vacancy rate for Parsippany-Troy Hills Township is 12.5%.
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.
Daniel S. Cassese is tax assessor of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township, is a professional, with over 47 years of experience in the field of tax assessment and real estate appraisal.
When you go to a federally licensed firearms dealer and ask to buy a gun, you’ll be asked to fill out ATF Form 4473 with questions about your background, criminal records, mental health history, immigration status, and drug use.
The dealer then contacts the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), and your personal details are checked against federal databases to see whether you’re legally allowed to own a firearm. Ideally, you’d want to know what to expect for the wait time before you head to the store.
So, how long does a background check take for a gun? Let’s find out.
How Long Does a Background Check Take for a Gun? Here’s What to Expect
In most cases, a background check for a gun is fairly quick, but there’s no single timeline that applies to everyone. The wait can depend on the federal system, your state’s rules, the dealer’s policies, and whether your information needs extra review.
Here’s what you can usually expect once the dealer submits your information.
Instant or Fast Approval (10-30 Minutes)
The Department of Justice requires that NICS reviewers make an immediate decision in the vast majority of cases.
If you have a clean record, there’s a good chance your background check will come back approved in about 10 to 30 minutes. Sometimes it’s even faster. As soon as the dealer gets a green light, the sale can proceed.
Delayed Checks (Up to 3 Business Days)
Sometimes the system flags the check for further review. This doesn’t automatically mean you’re denied. It just means the FBI needs more time to look into your records.
There are a few reasons this happens. A very common name can trigger a false match with someone who has a disqualifying record. A past arrest (even one that didn’t lead to a conviction) can also slow things down. In these cases, your check gets transferred to FBI examiners who reach out to local law enforcement and state agencies to gather more information.
You can use background check tools to look into your own records before heading to a gun store, which can help you anticipate potential delays and understand what might come up during the review process.
The “Default Proceed” Rule
By law, the FBI has up to three business days to make a final decision. If they don’t respond within this period, the dealer is legally allowed to go ahead and sell you the gun. This is called a “default proceed” sale.
The FBI examiner assigned to your case is still required to keep working on it for up to 90 days after the default proceeding is issued. If they later determine you weren’t legally allowed to buy a firearm, the ATF gets involved to retrieve the weapon.
State Waiting Periods (3 to 10+ Days)
Even if your background check clears quickly, you might still have to wait before you can take your firearm home. Many states have mandatory waiting periods that apply regardless of how fast the background check is completed.
These waiting periods may range from 3 to 10 days, though some states have longer ones. It applies to everyone, even if your background check comes back clean in five minutes.
If you live in a state with a waiting period, such as California, the clock usually starts when the background check is submitted, not when it’s approved.
How Can You Avoid Delays?
To avoid delays, make sure your form is filled out correctly. Use your full legal name and double-check your date of birth, address, and identification details.
Some buyers also provide their Social Security number on the form. This is usually optional, but it can help you stand out from people with a similar name.
What Can Disqualify You Entirely?
If the background check turns up a disqualifying record, the sale of a firearm will be denied. Common reasons for denial include:
Felony convictions
Domestic violence misdemeanor convictions
Active restraining orders
Fugitive status
Unlawful drug use
Illegal immigration status
Being involuntarily committed to a psychiatric facility
The system searches multiple federal criminal databases for any of these flags.
So, How Long Does a Background Check Take for a Gun?
Most of the time, you’ll get an answer within the same visit to the store. But delays can happen for all sorts of reasons that have nothing to do with whether you’re actually disqualified. And even after your check clears, state waiting periods might still add days to the process.
The best thing you can do is go in prepared. Know your own record, understand your state’s laws, and be patient. Most people walk out with their purchase the same day or within a few days. Knowing what to expect makes the whole experience a lot less confusing.
The nearly completed three-level Topgolf facility in Parsippany features more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full-service restaurant and bar, private event spaces, a golf shop, and interactive technology-driven games. The entertainment complex is expected to open later this summer at 1269 Route 46.
PARSIPPANY — Topgolf will open its newest New Jersey location in Parsippany on July 3, bringing the sports and entertainment company’s latest venue design to Morris County just in time for the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
Located at 1269 Route 46 near the intersection of Interstate 80 and Interstate 287, the three-level facility will be Topgolf’s third New Jersey location, joining existing venues in Edison and Mount Laurel. The Parsippany site will also be the company’s 102nd venue nationwide.
The three-level Parsippany Topgolf complex will offer more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays equipped with ball-tracking technology that allows guests to compete in a variety of interactive golf games. In addition to the golf experience, the venue will feature a full-service restaurant and bar, private event spaces, numerous televisions, and a retail golf shop. Designed for golfers and non-golfers alike, the facility combines sports, dining, and entertainment in a social atmosphere suitable for families, friends, and corporate gatherings. When it opens later this summer, Topgolf is expected to become one of the largest entertainment destinations in Morris County.
The venue is expected to employ approximately 350 to 400 people and will serve as the first location to showcase Topgolf’s newest prototype design, featuring enhanced entertainment options and personalized technology.
“We’re thrilled to debut the latest Topgolf sports and entertainment concept to Parsippany, expanding our presence in New Jersey,” said David McKillips, Topgolf CEO. “As the ultimate sports and entertainment leader, Topgolf is a gateway to golf for many first-time players, and we’ve now expanded our entertainment offering and technology personalization to welcome guests and players of all ages and skills.”
Among the new features is “My Bay, My Way,” a personalized experience available through the Topgolf mobile app. Guests will be able to customize their visit by ordering food directly to their bay, selecting television channels and saving game highlights.
The Parsippany venue will feature 102 climate-controlled hitting bays spread across three levels, along with lounge-style seating, a full-service restaurant and bar, private event spaces, a rooftop terrace and outdoor social areas.
Additional attractions include 20 arcade games, reimagined outfield targets and slopes, and more than 250 television screens throughout the facility.
The location will also include 24 dedicated game-day suites, significantly more than the typical number offered at other Topgolf venues. Each suite is designed to provide an immersive sports-viewing experience with multiple large-screen displays.
To celebrate the opening, Topgolf is offering several promotions. Guests who book and complete a one- or two-bay reservation between July 3 and July 17 will automatically be entered for a chance to win one year of free game play at the Parsippany location. In addition, the first 100 guests to visit on opening day will receive a $50 Topgolf gift card courtesy of Honda and Acura.
Topgolf officials said the new venue is designed to appeal to golfers of all skill levels, from first-time players to experienced golfers. The company’s Toptracer technology tracks each shot’s flight, distance and accuracy in real time, creating a competitive and interactive experience.
Reservations and additional information are available through the Topgolf website at topgolf.com/parsippany and the Topgolf mobile app.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills has been awarded $134,006 as part of $16.2 million in annual grants the Sherrill administration is distributing statewide to help communities improve recycling and waste reduction programs, the state Department of Environmental Protection announced.
The grants are based on the amount of recycling each community reported in 2023, the most recent year for which data is available.
Local recycling programs may use the funding to improve recycling centers, hold household hazardous waste collection events, add public recycling receptacles, maintain leaf composting operations and support recycling education programs.
“New Jersey is a national leader in conserving natural resources through strong local recycling programs that reduce pollution, create jobs and support a multi-billion-dollar recycling industry,” said Acting Commissioner Ed Potosnak. “These annual grants enable communities to grow and improve their programs while educating residents about the importance of recycling properly.”
The grants are funded through a $3-per-ton surcharge on trash disposed of at solid waste facilities statewide under the state’s Recycling Enhancement Act.
According to the DEP, New Jersey generated 21.7 million tons of solid waste in 2023, including municipal solid waste and non-municipal waste such as construction debris. Of that amount, 11.5 million tons were recycled, resulting in an overall recycling rate of 53%, a 1 percentage point decrease from the previous year.
The state recycled 3.4 million tons of municipal solid waste and disposed of 6.1 million tons, for a municipal solid waste recycling rate of 36%, down 2 percentage points from 2022.
DEP officials said each New Jersey resident, on average, disposed of 3.5 pounds of waste and recycled 2.1 pounds each day.
Parsippany-Troy Hills was among several municipalities statewide to receive grants of more than $100,000, a group that also included Newark, Jersey City, Edison, Woodbridge, Clifton, Paterson, Toms River, Lakewood and Vineland.
The DEP said New Jersey’s recycling industry contributes about $6 billion annually to the state economy and employs nearly 27,000 people.
Residents are encouraged to use the Recycle Coach app to check local recycling and trash collection schedules and learn what materials can be recycled in their communities.
TRENTON — The New Jersey Senate has approved bipartisan legislation sponsored by Sen. Doug Steinhardt and Sen. Brian Stack that would create a new criminal offense for acts of political violence and require specialized training for law enforcement officers.
The measure, Senate Bill 1090, would establish the crime of political violence when a person commits, attempts to commit or conspires to commit a violent crime against an individual, a family member or another victim with the intent to interfere with or retaliate against a person because of that individual’s political affiliation or political expression.
Supporters of the legislation said the bill is intended to address politically motivated violence and intimidation while protecting participation in the democratic process.
“This political violence bill protects everyone—Conservative, Liberal, and Independent,” said Sen. Steinhardt, R-Hunterdon, Somerset and Warren. “No person should fear hate-fueled political violence for expressing their opinion, and anyone who resorts to such violence to silence that opinion will suffer the full weight of the law. Hate-fueled political violence hurts everyone and erodes the very principles on which our Republic was built.”
Steinhardt and Stack, a Democrat representing Hudson County, introduced the legislation on a bipartisan basis.
“I’m proud to stand with Doug on this critical legislation and will do everything I can to help move it through the legislative process,” said Sen. Stack. “Politically motivated violence is an attack on the foundation of our democracy. No one in this country should live in fear for speaking their mind, and elected officials must be able to govern free from threats, harassment, or attempts to silence them for their beliefs. This bill protects people’s rights to participate in our democracy freely and without fear. By imposing tougher penalties, we are making it clear: if you use violence to punish, deter, or silence a victim from engaging in political expression or participation, there will be consequences. Enough is enough; this kind of behavior has no place in a free society.”
In addition to creating the offense, the bill would require law enforcement training related to identifying and investigating politically motivated acts of violence.
The legislation now advances for further consideration in the state Legislature.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Schools recently celebrated a group of outstanding educators and staff members whose dedication, service, and commitment have helped shape generations of students throughout the district.
The recognition ceremony honored the district’s Teachers of the Year, retiring staff members, and employees who have reached the remarkable milestone of 25 years of service in education.
District officials expressed their gratitude to the honorees, noting that their hard work, passion, and unwavering dedication have made a lasting impact on students, families, colleagues, and the community as a whole.
Teachers of the Year were recognized for their excellence in the classroom, innovative teaching practices, and commitment to helping students achieve their full potential. Retiring educators and staff members were celebrated for careers devoted to guiding and inspiring young minds, while 25-year service recipients were honored for their decades-long commitment to education and student success.
“Today we celebrate the dedicated educators who have shaped countless lives and built the foundation of our community’s future,” district officials said. “We are honored to recognize our retiring teachers for their years of service, those reaching the milestone of 25 years in education, and our exceptional Teachers of the Year. Thank you for your commitment, passion, and the lasting impact you’ve made on students, families, and our entire school district.”
The event served as a reminder of the important role educators play in the lives of students and the enduring influence they have on future generations. Through their dedication and service, these honorees have helped strengthen the Parsippany-Troy Hills school community and continue the district’s tradition of educational excellence.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the Calabria Education Center, 292 Parsippany Road, Parsippany.
The Board will convene in closed executive session at 5:30 p.m. to conduct the annual performance review and summary conference of the Superintendent of Schools. No action will be taken in public during the closed session.
The regular public session will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will include personnel matters, award of bids, payment of bills, transfer of funds, and general business items.
The Superintendent’s Bulletin is available on the district’s website at pthsd.k12.nj.us.
TRENTON — Governor Mikie Sherrill has signed legislation requiring public schools to prominently display information about free and reduced-price school meal programs on their websites, making it easier for eligible families to access the benefits.
The new law (A3882/S3426) requires schools to post a link to the subsidized school meals application in a visible location on their website, along with a link to at least one informational video produced by the New Jersey Office of the Food Security Advocate.
Of the 689,149 students currently eligible for free and reduced-price school meals in New Jersey, 456,705 are directly certified — meaning they qualify automatically through enrollment in other assistance programs such as Medicaid or SNAP, with no additional paperwork required.
“Every child deserves access to nutritious meals, whether they are in the classroom or at home during the summer,” said Governor Sherrill. “This legislation will make it easier for families to find and access school meal programs by ensuring information is readily available when they need it.”
Governor Sherrill also announced that more than 681,000 eligible children across the state will begin receiving Summer EBT benefits in the coming days. The NJ Summer EBT program provides families with a one-time benefit of $120 per eligible child to purchase food at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other authorized retailers during the summer months.
Families seeking to apply for school meals or Summer EBT benefits should contact their local school district. For eligibility information click here to visit the state’s Summer EBT portal.
TRENTON — The New Jersey Senate has passed legislation sponsored by Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-Morris, Passaic) and Senator Anthony M. Bucco (R-Morris, Passaic) aimed at addressing the state’s firefighter shortage by allowing high school students to earn health, safety, and physical education credits through completion of a county fire academy course.
To be eligible, a student must:
Be between the ages of 16 and 18
Complete an examination to become a junior firefighter, or equivalent
Commit to volunteering at their local fire department for two years
“New Jersey communities depend on firefighters to keep families safe, but departments across the state are struggling to recruit the next generation of firefighters,” said Sen. Pennacchio. “By allowing junior firefighters to receive health, safety, and physical education credits, we are promoting valuable educational opportunities for students outside the classroom while strengthening the pipeline of future first responders.”
“Encouraging young people to become junior firefighters not only helps address the first responder shortage, it also provides a hands-on learning experience that builds leadership, responsibility, and a commitment to community service,” said Sen. Bucco. “This bill takes a creative approach to recruitment by recognizing the real-world training and physical demands of firefighting as part of a student’s education.”
The full text of the bill, S-1343, is available by clicking here.
County College of Morris Board of Trustees Chair Paul R. Licitra has been honored with the Ronald D. Winthers Trustee Leadership Award at the 2026 New Jersey Community College Awards, presented by the New Jersey Council of County Colleges (NJCCC), on June 10, 2026.
MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) Board of Trustees Chair Paul R. Licitra has been honored with the Ronald D. Winthers Trustee Leadership Award at the 2026 New Jersey Community College Awards, presented by the New Jersey Council of County Colleges (NJCCC).
The award recognizes trustees whose extraordinary leadership, service, and advocacy have advanced the mission of community colleges and expanded opportunities for students. The annual awards celebrate excellence across New Jersey’s 18 community colleges, honoring individuals and organizations whose vision and leadership have strengthened communities statewide.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award, but the true reward has always been seeing students achieve their goals and build brighter futures for themselves and their families,” said Licitra. “Community colleges create opportunities that change lives every day. It has been a privilege to serve County College of Morris alongside dedicated trustees, administrators, faculty, staff and community partners who share a commitment to student success.”
Licitra has distinguished himself through decades of public service and an unwavering commitment to student success. A Vietnam veteran himself, he has been a passionate advocate for those who have served in the military. His support of CCM’s Veterans Resource Center has contributed to a 194 percent increase in veteran enrollment since its opening.
He was also instrumental in securing funding for four new facilities supporting high-demand programs in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and culinary science — expanding career pathways for students while addressing critical workforce needs throughout Morris County and New Jersey. Licitra is also a familiar presence at student performances, athletic competitions, and commencement ceremonies.
“Paul exemplifies the very best of community college leadership,” said Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, president of County College of Morris. “His dedication to our students, veterans and community has helped shape the college’s growth and success. Whether advocating for transformative facilities or simply showing up to support students, Paul leads with passion, integrity and an unwavering belief in the power of education.”
For more information about CCM, visit www.ccm.edu.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
PARSIPPANY — A Mountain Lakes man was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated following a late-night traffic stop on Route 46 West, according to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department.
On April 8, 2026, at approximately 11:10 p.m., Ptl. Jesse Hughes observed a grey 2021 Audi Q7 make a left turn from Parsippany Boulevard onto Route 46 West while a red left turn arrow was illuminated, nearly striking another vehicle that had a green light. Hughes activated his emergency lights and conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 46 West, just prior to Waterview Boulevard. The vehicle took an unusually long time to pull over. Ptl. Ribaudo responded to assist.
Upon making contact with the driver, identified as Ronald S. Kramer, 66, of Mountain Lakes, Hughes noted signs of impairment. Kramer provided both a New Jersey and a New York driver’s license and fumbled while attempting to produce his registration and insurance card. Body worn camera footage was recorded throughout the stop.
Kramer was charged with the following:
Operating under the influence of liquor or drugs (39:4-50)
Consent to take samples of breath, record (39:4-50.2)
Refusal to submit to chemical test, penalties (39:4-50.4A)
Failure to observe a traffic control device (39:4-81)
Reckless driving (39:4-96)
The report was filed by Ptl. Jesse Hughes, Badge #479, and reviewed by Ptl. Gregory Bloete, Badge #476. The incident was assigned report number 26-019287.
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 — Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi recently spoke at a meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, covering a range of programs and services available to Morris County residents.
Grossi highlighted the county’s Property Fraud Alert program, which notifies property owners if any documents are recorded against their property — an important tool in protecting against deed fraud.
She also discussed the Morris County Senior Identification Card program, which provides seniors with an official form of identification, as well as Veteran ID Cards, recognizing the service of local veterans.
Additional topics included deed alerts, voter registration resources, and Operation Giveback, a program aimed at returning unclaimed assets to Morris County residents.
Residents interested in any of these programs can visit the Morris County Clerk’s website at www.morriscountyclerk.org for more information.
