MORRIS COUNTY — Former New York Jets center and Ring of Honor member Nick Mangold has shared an emotional message with fans, revealing that he is in need of a kidney transplant due to chronic kidney disease.
Mangold explained that he was first diagnosed in 2006 with a genetic defect that ultimately led to kidney failure. After a difficult summer, he is now undergoing dialysis while awaiting a transplant.
“I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time,” Mangold said.
With no family members able to donate, Mangold is reaching out to the Jets community and beyond for help. He is seeking a kidney donor with type O blood.
Mangold, who resides in Madison, is well-known in the community as a devoted father and neighbor. Friends and residents describe him as humble, generous, and deeply involved in local life.
Fans and community members who wish to find out if they might be a match can click here and then click “I WANT TO DONATE MY KIDNEY.” Those interested should use his full name, Nicholas Mangold, and his birth date, January 13, 1984, when completing the donor form.
Mangold expressed his gratitude to his family, friends, and fans, writing, “While this has been a tough stretch, I’m staying positive and focused on the path ahead. I’m looking forward to better days and getting back to full strength soon.”
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany, in partnership with the Morris County SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program), will host an informational presentation on Medicare Open Enrollment on Wednesday, October 22, at 10:00 a.m. The event will take place at the Parsippany Senior Center, located at 1130 Knoll Road.
Each year, Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7, providing an opportunity for individuals to review and make changes to their Medicare coverage. This session will focus on understanding Medicare Prescription Drug Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans, helping attendees make informed decisions about their health insurance options for 2026.
Representatives from Morris County SHIP will also share information about NJ SAVE, a valuable program that helps qualifying individuals save money on Medicare premiums, prescription costs, and living expenses.
“Many seniors find the Medicare process confusing,” said a spokesperson for the Office on Aging. “This presentation is designed to simplify the information and ensure everyone understands their choices.”
Registration is required to attend. Those interested can sign up at the Office on Aging or call (973) 263-7351 for more information.
Parsippany Human Services Director Michele Piccone accepted a $2,000 donation to the Parsippany Food Pantry, raised by a group of talented young artists through their fifth annual “Cards for a Cause” FUNdRAISER.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Human Services Director Michele Piccone accepted a $2,000 donation to the Parsippany Food Pantry, raised by a group of talented young artists through their fifth annual “Cards for a Cause” FUNdRAISER.
Now celebrating its fifth year, the Annual FUNdRAISER reached a new milestone with twenty-two young artists, three major community events, and countless volunteer hours—all resulting in a total of $3,000 raised. While the Parsippany Food Pantry remained the primary beneficiary, receiving $2,000, the students also chose to donate $1,000 to the Mt. Tabor Volunteer Fire Department this year.
The young artists extended their generosity by donating $1,000 to the Mt. Tabor Volunteer Fire Department as part of this year’s “Cards for a Cause” FUNdRAISER.
The effort was led by 10-year-old Vivan Bhattacharya and his friends Ryan and Kate Cooper, Joey Carson, Veer Sethi, Riana Elawadhi, Jill Sadhu, Ashneel and Eishaan Kumar, Ashmi Mazumder, Aishini Saha, Samriddhi Sengupta, Luciana Wilson, Kavanveer Singh, Shrey Kumar, Nia Tambe, Sathvika Bharanidharan, Shravan Sangar, Vihan Misra, Vihan Kushwaha, Avi and Arya Lad. These dedicated young artists designed and sold handmade greeting cards featuring their own artwork to support local causes.
The young artists from “Cards for a Cause” raised funds during the Parsippany Fall Festival, showcasing their handmade greeting cards to support the Parsippany Food Pantry and Mt. Tabor Volunteer Fire Department.
The success of the initiative was also made possible thanks to volunteers Amayra Rai, Anhik Jena, Connor Kaczorowski, Alia and Yunus Quaizar, Vihan Negi, and Rayirth Upadhyay, along with the many parents who supported every step of the process.
This year’s fundraiser also highlighted the importance of community partnerships—The UPS Store in Lake Hiawatha provided generous printing discounts to help bring the children’s artwork to life.
Continuing a Tradition of Kindness
Organizers encourage Parsippany’s youngest artists, ages seven and under, to join next year’s event and continue spreading kindness through creativity.
Thank you to everyone who made this remarkable effort possible—your generosity truly makes a difference, and the Parsippany community is proud to be one of this year’s beneficiaries.
We can’t wait to see what Vivan and Friends accomplish in 2026!
The Parsippany team of Garden Savings Federal Credit Union celebrated International Credit Union Day by welcoming members with smiles, conversation, and treats. Pictured is Stephanie Parise with fellow staff members at the 129 Littleton Road branch.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany branch of Garden Savings Federal Credit Union joined credit unions around the world in celebrating International Credit Union Day on Thursday, October 17. The team spent the day greeting members, sharing refreshments and goodies, and celebrating the cooperative spirit that defines the credit union movement.
International Credit Union Day is celebrated annually on the third Thursday of October to recognize the positive impact that credit unions have on their members and communities. The day highlights the “people helping people” philosophy that has guided credit unions for more than 75 years.
This year’s theme, “Cooperation for a Prosperous World,” encouraged credit unions to reflect on their mission of empowering members through financial education, inclusion, and service.
Garden Savings Federal Credit Union, headquartered in Parsippany, has been serving members since 1968, when it was founded to support employees of AT&T Bell Laboratories. Today, it serves more than 25,000 members across New Jersey, offering savings and checking accounts, loans, and financial counseling designed to help members build stronger financial futures. The credit union recently expanded through a merger with Pinnacle Federal Credit Union, further strengthening its reach and community impact.
At the Parsippany branch, located at 129 Littleton Road, team members welcomed guests with smiles and conversation, using the occasion to thank members for their loyalty and trust.
“It means so much to us to be able to give back — even in a small way — to the people who trust us with their financial lives,” said Stephanie Parise. “Today reminds all of us that Garden Savings is more than transactions — it’s relationships, it’s support, it’s community.”
Throughout the day, members enjoyed snacks and conversation as they learned more about the credit union’s ongoing efforts to provide personalized service and financial education.
Garden Savings Federal Credit Union continues to embody the cooperative spirit of International Credit Union Day — putting people before profit and strengthening the communities it serves.
Agadia Systems Relocating Global Headquarters to Morris Plains
MORRIS PLAINS — Health care software firm Agadia Systems Inc. will relocate its global headquarters to Morris Plains following its purchase of an office property in the township.
Cushman & Wakefield announced the $10.25 million sale of 201 Littleton Road to SiriVasha LLC, a sister company of Agadia Systems, on September 30.
The transaction was brokered by Cushman & Wakefield’s David Bernhaut, Executive Vice Chair; Frank DiTommaso, Executive Managing Director; Andrew Schwartz, Managing Director; Jordan Sobel, Director; Andre Balthazard, Senior Associate; Dan Bottiglieri, Associate; and Bill Baunach, Senior Financial Analyst. The team represented the seller, Chopp Holdings, and also procured the buyer. Additionally, the firm’s Equity, Debt & Structured Finance team—led by Brian Anderson, Executive Managing Director, and Eddie Miro, Senior Financial Analyst—arranged financing for the acquisition.
Currently based at 9 Campus Drive, 2nd Floor East, Parsippany, Agadia Systems develops technology solutions for the managed care and health plan industry.
Sobel described the 89,100-square-foot property as “a unique opportunity to acquire a well-occupied office asset with strong cash flow and significant value-add potential.” He noted that recent leasing momentum—five new leases totaling more than 22,000 square feet—reflects “the sustained demand for high-quality, well-located office space in New Jersey.”
A Premier Office Setting
Situated on 16.5 acres in Morris County, 201 Littleton Road offers a park-like environment with lake views, outdoor terraces, and immediate access to Interstate 287, Interstate 80, and Route 10. The three-story building features a renovated lobby and updated common areas, with average suite sizes of approximately 4,700 square feet—well-suited to current market needs.
“The team at Chopp Holdings has done an excellent job throughout their ownership, and we are pleased to have represented them in securing a long-term buyer for the property,” said DiTommaso.
Cushman & Wakefield also handled the sale of the same property in 2019. Shortly after purchasing the asset from Mack-Cali Realty Corp., Chopp Holdings appointed Cushman & Wakefield as its exclusive leasing agent, driving occupancy and value in the years since.
New Jersey gaming regulators are weighing whether to allow cryptocurrency in the state’s casino system. The Division of Gaming Enforcement has spent months reviewing how digital currencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum could work with existing player protection rules. Officials said they need to balance new technology with current safety standards.
The current rules do not allow crypto gambling within New Jersey’s licensed casinos. This creates a gap where players who want to use digital currencies go to offshore sites instead. Many of these international platforms operate without the consumer protections that New Jersey requires from its licensed operators.
Players often turn to offshore sites because of convenience features. Some operate as no account casino sites where users can connect their crypto wallet and start playing immediately. These sites skip the registration forms and verification steps that traditional casinos require. A player can link their Bitcoin wallet and be spinning slots within minutes.
State officials recognize the appeal but worry about several issues. Cryptocurrency prices change rapidly throughout each day. A $100 Bitcoin wager at the start of a poker game might be worth $85 or $120 when the hand ends. This volatility makes it hard for casinos to handle accounting and payouts properly.
New Jersey has a track record of gambling innovation. Atlantic City casinos opened in 1976 when most states banned all casino games. Online casinos launched in 2013, years before other states adopted internet gaming. The state also led the 2018 Supreme Court case that opened sports betting across America.
Gaming officials are now considering a “regulatory sandbox” approach for crypto gambling. Licensed operators could test digital currency features under close state supervision. The idea would let casinos accept Bitcoin deposits that convert immediately into U.S. dollars. Players would get crypto convenience without the wild price swings.
Some New Jersey sportsbooks already offer limited crypto options. They accept Bitcoin and Ethereum deposits but convert everything to dollars before placing any bets. This hybrid system addresses volatility concerns while giving players more payment choices.
Federal law adds complications to state decisions. The 2006 Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act creates unclear areas around cryptocurrency transactions. Without clear federal guidance, states must figure out their own approaches to digital currency gambling.
David Rebuck led New Jersey’s gaming enforcement division until his retirement in 2024. He previously said regulators should “sit on the sidelines” and watch crypto developments before making quick decisions. His careful approach still influences current policy discussions.
Consumer protection remains the top priority. New Jersey recently proposed stronger responsible gambling requirements that would force licensed operators to monitor player behavior more closely. Any crypto gambling system would need to include similar safeguards for problem gambling prevention.
The pressure to act keeps building as New Jersey’s online gambling revenue hit record highs in mid-2025. Atlantic City casinos reported year-over-year declines even as online gambling grew. More New Jersey residents try offshore crypto gambling sites each month, taking their money outside the regulated system. Officials said they need to balance innovation with protecting a thriving sector that generates millions in state revenue.
Anti-money laundering rules create another challenge. Cryptocurrency transactions require sophisticated tracking systems to meet federal reporting standards. Licensed operators would need expensive new technology to monitor digital currency flows and flag suspicious activity.
State officials do not expect quick action on crypto gambling rules. New Jersey learned from past gambling expansions that careful planning works better than rushed implementation. They would rather take extra time to get the regulations right than be first to market.
Industry analysts think New Jersey will eventually approve some form of crypto gambling, but officials want strong consumer protections in place first. Other states are watching the approach closely since whatever rules emerge here will likely influence crypto gambling policy elsewhere. Committee hearings might begin later this year if regulators move ahead with crypto gambling rules. The process would require public comment periods and testing before any new regulations go into effect.
Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms, a nationally recognized historic site in Parsippany, served as the backdrop for a remarkable ceremony
PARSIPPANY — he Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms, the early 20th-century historic home of Gustav Stickley, will host a FREE Fall Open House on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m.
The celebration will take place across the scenic Craftsman Farms property and will include open house access to the Log House, beautifully adorned with period-inspired All Hallows Eve décor.
Docents will be stationed throughout the Log House and surrounding landscape to share fascinating insights about the history and significance of this national treasure. Completed in 1911, the Log House is recognized as one of the most important architectural achievements of the American Arts and Crafts movement. Originally designed as a clubhouse, it later became the Stickley family home and continues to serve as the heart of the property today.
Visitors of all ages are invited to create their own leaf print tile at the craft table and enjoy VIP shopping in The Craftsman Shop (completed in 2024), featuring custom jewelry, home décor, the museum’s new children’s book, and other visitor favorites.
Guests can also enter a Door Prize Drawing for a chance to win a Mystery Gift from The Craftsman Shop and a Household Membership to the museum.
For an additional fee, visitors may take a Docent-led Autumn Grounds Tour of Gustav Stickley’s country estate, exploring its lush landscape nestled “deep in the sunny New Jersey hills.” Advance purchase for the tour is recommended.
The FREE Fall Open House runs from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 25, 2025.
PARSIPPANY — Joan Cutrone has volunteered for years at Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey’s major fundraiser as a Chester Lioness, supporting the nonprofit’s efforts to empower people with vision loss or blindness. At an open house at VLANJ’s new space in Morris Plains, Cutrone saw that commitment in action as staff demonstrated how they teach adaptive skills and technology that foster independence.
“VLANJ does so much for this community, and they do it so well,” Cutrone said. Throughout the Oct. 9 tour, staff showed how VLANJ helps people live independently — from mastering technology to cooking safely. “This building is amazing, with everything on one floor — but it’s the staff who make this place,” she said.
The open house was held in conjunction with VLANJ’s 4th Annual Day of Giving, which ran through October 10 and raised more than $12,000 in 1 day, 9 hours and 43 minutes — honoring the organization’s founding year, 1943. Proceeds will support VLANJ’s expanding technology program, which teaches participants how to use accessible devices and apps, many powered by artificial intelligence.
VLANJ President and CEO Bill Schuldt invited guests to imagine how they would handle everyday tasks if they suddenly lost their vision — choosing clothes, navigating their homes or cooking dinner for their families. “Our programs are geared to help provide the answers to these questions,” Schuldt said.
Accessibility in Action
Staff led guests through the new center, demonstrating how technology, adaptive skills and confidence come together to foster independence.
Technology Coordinator Anthony Filingeri showcased the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which use AI to describe surroundings. Wearing a pair, he asked the device to identify what was in front of him, then what was beyond the windows, and it accurately identified cars in the parking lot. “Anything a sighted person can see, these glasses can describe,” he said.
Program Director Vicki Lowrie and Program Coordinator Liz Edwards explained orientation and mobility training, including mental mapping of familiar spaces and keeping designated spots for key items. Edwards, who also facilitates the self-advocacy group, said VLANJ also helps people cope with “the emotional and mental elements of losing one’s sight.”
They also offered guidance on how to assist respectfully. “Don’t grab the person,” said Edwards, who has significant vision loss and began at VLANJ as a participant. “Always ask, ‘Do you need assistance?’”
In the teaching kitchen, Outreach Specialist Patricia Ebel demonstrated safe cooking techniques using adaptive tools such as knife guards. “Participants make the most amazing dishes,” Ebel said. “You just have to take your time and do it slowly.”
Guests Bill Houck, principal and wealth manager at Modera Wealth Management, and Heather Govic, client service specialist at the firm, called the experience “incredible.” Modera served as the event’s presenting sponsor. Both were impressed by the hands-on demonstrations and by the display of artwork created by participants.
Anthony Camuso, case management supervisor at DAWN Center for Independent Living in Denville, attended to learn how VLANJ’s programs might benefit DAWN clients with vision loss and to explore future collaboration.
Honoring VLANJ’s Legacy
Photos along the hallways trace VLANJ’s evolution from its Newark roots in 1943, when adults with vision loss or blindness formed a social club to support one another and challenge bias. In 1955, the organization moved to Denville as the New Jersey Foundation for the Blind, launched a summer camp for blind women, and over time broadened its programs to include wellness and technology education.
Renamed Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey in 2016, it continued to innovate — adding low vision occupational therapy and expanding its range of services. During the pandemic, VLANJ introduced virtual programming that remains a vital option today. The nonprofit now offers in-center and virtual programs that build life skills, teach technology use and mobility, and help participants gain confidence and independence. VLANJ also collaborates with the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired to host in-person events that foster connection and intergenerational mentorship.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Frank Cahill presents a $500 donation to Spectrum360, supporting the organization’s mission to empower individuals with autism and related disabilities through education, life skills, and community inclusion.
PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany recently donated $500 to Spectrum360, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving children and adults with autism and related disabilities throughout northern New Jersey.
Spectrum360 provides a continuum of educational, therapeutic, and vocational programs designed to help individuals reach their fullest potential. Through its schools, Academy360 and Independence360, the organization empowers students and adults to gain academic, social, and life skills that lead to independence and community inclusion.
The mission of Spectrum360 aligns closely with Kiwanis’ global purpose — improving the world one child and one community at a time. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, part of Kiwanis International, is a service organization of volunteers dedicated to supporting youth, promoting leadership, and fostering opportunities for all members of the community.
“Supporting Spectrum360 fits perfectly with our mission,” said Frank Cahill, Governor of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International and member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. “Both organizations share a common goal — helping young people and adults develop the confidence and skills they need to thrive.”
The donation will help Spectrum360 continue providing vital programs that make a lasting difference for individuals with autism and their families.
PARSIPPANY — Residents are invited to attend the Parsippany-Troy Hills School Board Candidates Night on Thursday, October 16, at 7:00 p.m. at Parsippany High School. The event offers voters an opportunity to meet the candidates seeking election to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education and to learn more about their positions on key issues affecting local schools.
Sponsored by the Parsippany PTAs, the program encourages community engagement and informed voting ahead of the upcoming school board election. Attendees will be able to hear from each candidate and submit questions either in person or in advance online at https://bit.ly/2026ParsippanyBOE.
For those unable to attend in person, the forum will be streamed live on the Video On the Go YouTube channel, ensuring all residents have access to the discussion.
With topics such as academic achievement, fiscal responsibility, and student well-being at the forefront, this event provides an important opportunity for the community to engage directly with the candidates who will help shape the future of Parsippany’s public schools.
Residents are encouraged to attend, listen, and make their voices heard—because your school board vote counts.
Prime Parsippany Retail Site with Four National Tenants Sells for $18.5M
PARSIPPANY — A private investor has acquired the Baldwin Shopping Center in Parsippany, a retail complex spanning more than 45,000 square feet, for $18.5 million, according to Marcus & Millichap.
Located at 190-200 Baldwin Road, the property is fully leased and anchored by national tenants. Its prime location at a signalized intersection near Route 46 and just minutes from Interstates 80 and 287 contributed to strong buyer interest.
A complete list of tenants include:
1. Walgreens (Drive-Thru Pharmacy) 2. Concentra Urgent Care 3. Picatinny Federal Credit Union 4. Green Pond Dry Cleaners 5. Baldwin Bagels & Bakery Deli 6. News Plus 7. Baldwin Coin-Op Laundry 8. Enterprise Rent-A-Car 9. Code Ninjas 10. State Farm 11. Baldwin Pizzeria 12. Gourmet Café Restaurant 13. Payal Beauty Salon 14. Soccer Zone USA 15. Flynn O’Hara Uniforms
Marcus & Millichap’s Alan Cafiero, David Cafiero, and John Moroz represented the seller and also secured the buyer in the transaction. Bill Schlossman of Castle Real Estate Services assisted the seller on the listing.
“Well-positioned shopping centers along major retail corridors in northern New Jersey continue to attract significant investor attention,” said Alan Cafiero, Senior Managing Director of Investments in Marcus & Millichap’s New Jersey office. “Baldwin Shopping Center was no exception, receiving multiple offers before ultimately selling to a 1031 exchange buyer.”
Built in 1970 and renovated in 2012, the 45,135-square-foot shopping center benefits from an average daily traffic count of over 45,000 vehicles on Route 46. Within a five-mile radius, the area boasts more than 131,000 residents with an average household income exceeding $150,000.
PARSIPPANY — The Lake Hiawatha Fire Department will host its Annual Open House on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 39 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha.
Residents are invited to stop by the firehouse to meet the dedicated members of District 4, explore the station, and learn valuable fire safety tips. The event will feature interactive demonstrations, educational displays on smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguisher training, and information on membership opportunities.
As part of Fire Prevention Month, firefighters will also visit Lake Hiawatha Elementary School and Knollwood School to teach students about fire safety and prevention.
The department encourages everyone to come out, say hello, and see firsthand the teamwork and dedication that help keep the community safe.
Children at Goryeb Children’s Hospital enjoy a moment of creativity and fun, thanks to community donations from the Boredom Busters Drive — part of the LEAD Morris Project — bringing smiles and hands-on activities to brighten their hospital stay.
MORRIS COUNTY — Hospital stays can often feel long and stressful, especially for preteens and teenagers who may find themselves with little to do during recovery. This month, the LEAD Morris Project is helping to change that with the Boredom Busters Drive for Goryeb Children’s Hospital, running through Monday, October 27.
The initiative encourages community members to donate new STEM kits, art projects, and small games to help bring creativity and joy to young patients during extended hospital stays. The focus is specifically on preteens and teens, who are often overlooked in traditional toy drives.
“Every kit or project truly makes a difference,” organizers noted. “Something as simple as a LEGO set, art kit, or STEM project can turn a long hospital day into an afternoon of curiosity, creativity, and connection.”
Recommended Donation Items
Donations must be new items only. Suggested items include:
LEGO sets
Playing cards and small games
Art kits (diamond art, origami, friendship bracelets, etc.)
Community members can bring their donations to any of the following participating locations:
Morris County Chamber of Commerce 325 Columbia Turnpike, Florham Park
The Growing Stage – The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey 7 Ledgewood Avenue, Netcong
Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
During performances of Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Fulton Bank 272 Route 46, Rockaway
Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Garden Savings Federal Credit Union Branches:
Dover Branch, 23 Prospect Street, Dover
Parsippany Branch, 129 Littleton Road, Parsippany
South Orange Branch, 15 Scotland Road, South Orange
Newark Branch, 120 Ferry Street, Newark
Sayreville Branch, 2909 Washington Road, Parlin
Brick Branch, 990 Cedar Bridge Avenue, Brick
For those who prefer to make a financial contribution, funds will be used to purchase needed items directly for the children. Donations can be arranged by emailing [email protected] or [email protected].
“We’re so grateful for the community’s compassion and generosity,” said Michael Harrison, a member of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce. “Together, we can brighten hospital days and bring smiles to young faces who need them most.”
The Boredom Busters Drive runs through Monday, October 27, and all contributions—large or small—help make hospital stays a little brighter for the children at Goryeb Children’s Hospital.
Loretta Gragnani of Parsippany-Troy Hills is sworn in as the newest trustee of the County College of Morris Board. With over 30 years of experience in business and public service, including her tenure as Council President, Gragnani joins returning trustee George J. Milonas to help guide CCM’s mission of academic excellence and workforce development.
PARSIPPANY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners this week announced two appointments to the ten-member County College of Morris (CCM) Board of Trustees, selecting a new member for the board and reappointing a sitting trustee.
Loretta Gragnani and Former Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce
Loretta Gragnani of Parsippany was appointed to an open four-year term that begins this month, and George J. Milonas of Wharton, who was first appointed in 2018, was reappointed to a four-year term.
“We’re grateful to Loretta for stepping forward to serve as a trustee and to George for continuing his commitment to CCM. Their leadership and expertise will help strengthen CCM’s position as a top community college in the state, preparing students for successful, high-earning careers,” said Commissioner John Krickus, a board liaison to CCM.
“Loretta brings a wealth of new perspectives and energy to a board that has long exemplified dedicated service to Morris County,” said Commissioner Deborah Smith, who also is a CCM liaison. “It’s equally reassuring to have George return for another term, lending his valuable experience to advance CCM’s mission. We truly appreciate their willingness to serve.”
Ms. Gragnani brings more than 30 years of experience in business management, public service and community leadership to the board. A former co-owner of a successful home design and construction firm, she served on the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council from 2016 to 2023, including as council president, and currently chairs the township’s Zoning Board of Adjustment. She is also a member of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee.
George J. Milonas of Wharton,
She is also an active volunteer, whose civic involvement includes leadership roles with local schools, organizing hurricane relief efforts, co-chairing the American Cancer Society’s “Relay for Life” community walk, and serving on boards for the Parsippany Day Care Center and the Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms. She received the New Jersey State Volunteer Award from former Gov. Chris Christie for her efforts in helping Parsippany recover from Hurricane Irene.
“CCM not only serves young people starting their college careers, but has strong workforce development programs and cooperation with the (Morris County) Vocational School District, thus providing skills for our residents across a range of interests,” Gragnani said in a letter to the CCM Trustee Search Committee. “As a small business owner for 30 years, I would seek to share those experiences, and insure not only existing business programs, but also the success of the new Entrepreneurial and Culinary Center.”
Mr. Milonas is a CCM graduate, as well as a former detective with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University. He is now an enterprise-risk and compliance expert who helps multi-national corporations identify and prevent financial crimes, currently serving as Senior Director of Compliance Advisory for Corporate Functions at Discover Financial. His career includes leadership roles in corporate security, anti-financial crime and compliance at MetLife, Avis Budget Group and JP Morgan Chase.
Mahat Jalan pauses outside the Hazrati Imam Complex in Tashkent, sketchbook in hand—an artist more drawn to observation than attention.
MORRIS COUNTY — In an era of relentless visibility, Mahat Jalan is an actor who chooses silence over the spotlight. Though born in Dover, New Jersey, and known in international film circuits, Jalan’s trajectory doesn’t follow the usual arc of red carpets or viral interviews. Instead, his recent path—from the historic streets of Tashkent to the understated lanes of Wadia—reveals a life guided by presence, not promotion.
Stillness on Set in Tashkent
In September 2025, Jalan spent three days in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, filming a French-language feature supported by a Los Angeles-based production house. The project explores displacement, exile, and reinvention—recurring themes that seem to mirror Jalan’s own inner landscape.
According to crew members, Jalan’s time on set was marked by an unusual stillness. During breaks, he wandered Chorsu Bazaar, sketched archways near the Hazrati Imam Complex, and studied light as it passed across walls and minarets. “He doesn’t just stand in a place, he absorbs it,” said a cinematographer working on the project. “It’s as if he’s translating space into emotion.”
A Quiet Diwali in Wadia
Shortly after returning from Uzbekistan, Jalan made a lesser-known journey—traveling by road to Wadia, a remote village in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district. Wadia is seldom in national news, though health reports cite its longstanding challenges with HIV and limited access to care.
Yet for several years now, Jalan has visited Wadia during Diwali. His visits are unannounced. No press. No photos. Just quiet time spent sharing sweets—peda, jalebi, motichoor laddoo—and listening.
“He comes like one of us,” said a local resident and former truck driver living with HIV. “No distance. He just listens. No one else listens.” Another villager added, “He remembers who lost whom. Every year.”
In a world that measures generosity by public gestures, Jalan’s simplicity stands apart.
Tracing Roots — or Letting Them Be
Public records list Jalan’s full name as Raphael H. Tudor, born to a Welsh-Hindu family in Dover. But beneath the surface is a lineage touched by history. In the Cardiff County Archives, a 1952 marriage certificate confirms the union of his grandfather, Indian civil engineer Kishanlal Jalan, and a Welsh woman named Elizabeth Tudor—who later settled in Palanpur, Gujarat, under the name Ratanbaa Jalan.
Rumors have long swirled about a distant connection to the Tudor dynasty. One retired Welsh archivist recalls a 1961 letter referencing “our family’s thinning bloodline, still traced to Henry VII.” Yet Jalan has never confirmed these links. Those close to him say he shows little interest in heritage as validation. “He lives in the now,” said one family friend.
Between Craft and Care
In his work, Jalan leans toward the quiet corners of cinema. Independent features. Art-house screenings. Global film festivals. His performances are meticulous, his public presence minimal.
“He acts for remembrance, not recognition,” said a collaborator from the Tashkent project.
With limited social media and few interviews, he stands in contrast to a culture obsessed with performance, not just on stage but in daily life.
The Choice to Witness
From the blue-tiled courtyards of Uzbekistan to the sun-scorched fields of Wadia, Jalan seems to exist in the in-between—both seen and unseen, rooted and drifting. He sketches mosques one day, then sits beside villagers navigating quiet hardship the next.
For Parsippany, Jalan remains a native son not often seen at local galas or front pages. But his journey—across continents and communities—offers something increasingly rare: a model of quiet commitment, a reminder that one can shape the world not just through visibility, but through presence.
New Jersey gaming regulators are weighing whether to allow cryptocurrency in the state’s casino system. The Division of Gaming Enforcement has spent months reviewing how digital currencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum could work with existing player protection rules. Officials said they need to balance new technology with current safety standards.
The current rules do not allow crypto gambling within New Jersey’s licensed casinos. This creates a gap where players who want to use digital currencies go to offshore sites instead. Many of these international platforms operate without the consumer protections that New Jersey requires from its licensed operators.
Players often turn to offshore sites because of convenience features. Some operate as no account casino sites where users can connect their crypto wallet and start playing immediately. These sites skip the registration forms and verification steps that traditional casinos require. A player can link their Bitcoin wallet and be spinning slots within minutes.
State officials recognize the appeal but worry about several issues. Cryptocurrency prices change rapidly throughout each day. A $100 Bitcoin wager at the start of a poker game might be worth $85 or $120 when the hand ends. This volatility makes it hard for casinos to handle accounting and payouts properly.
New Jersey has a track record of gambling innovation. Atlantic City casinos opened in 1976 when most states banned all casino games. Online casinos launched in 2013, years before other states adopted internet gaming. The state also led the 2018 Supreme Court case that opened sports betting across America.
Gaming officials are now considering a “regulatory sandbox” approach for crypto gambling. Licensed operators could test digital currency features under close state supervision. The idea would let casinos accept Bitcoin deposits that convert immediately into U.S. dollars. Players would get crypto convenience without the wild price swings.
Some New Jersey sportsbooks already offer limited crypto options. They accept Bitcoin and Ethereum deposits but convert everything to dollars before placing any bets. This hybrid system addresses volatility concerns while giving players more payment choices.
Federal law adds complications to state decisions. The 2006 Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act creates unclear areas around cryptocurrency transactions. Without clear federal guidance, states must figure out their own approaches to digital currency gambling.
David Rebuck led New Jersey’s gaming enforcement division until his retirement in 2024. He previously said regulators should “sit on the sidelines” and watch crypto developments before making quick decisions. His careful approach still influences current policy discussions.
Consumer protection remains the top priority. New Jersey recently proposed stronger responsible gambling requirements that would force licensed operators to monitor player behavior more closely. Any crypto gambling system would need to include similar safeguards for problem gambling prevention.
The pressure to act keeps building as New Jersey’s online gambling revenue hit record highs in mid-2025. Atlantic City casinos reported year-over-year declines even as online gambling grew. More New Jersey residents try offshore crypto gambling sites each month, taking their money outside the regulated system. Officials said they need to balance innovation with protecting a thriving sector that generates millions in state revenue.
Anti-money laundering rules create another challenge. Cryptocurrency transactions require sophisticated tracking systems to meet federal reporting standards. Licensed operators would need expensive new technology to monitor digital currency flows and flag suspicious activity.
State officials do not expect quick action on crypto gambling rules. New Jersey learned from past gambling expansions that careful planning works better than rushed implementation. They would rather take extra time to get the regulations right than be first to market.
Industry analysts think New Jersey will eventually approve some form of crypto gambling, but officials want strong consumer protections in place first. Other states are watching the approach closely since whatever rules emerge here will likely influence crypto gambling policy elsewhere. Committee hearings might begin later this year if regulators move ahead with crypto gambling rules. The process would require public comment periods and testing before any new regulations go into effect.
PARSIPANY — Chris W. Fitzpatrick delivered his impassioned talk, “The Urgency of Mentorship,” to more than 200 attendees at TEDxMontclair on June 24, 2025 at the Montclair Mezzanine. Sharing the story of a young woman whose memorable story was the only one in more than 40,000 interviews. Chris has conducted to bring him to tears, this talk explores the indispensable impact that mentorship has on individuals and communities.
Chris W. Fitzpatrick is a Professional Speaker, Aspiring Game Show Host, and Human Resources Professional who has interviewed more than 40,000 job seekers over a 20-year career in Early Career Talent Acquisition. This talk was given at the TEDxMontclair event, which used the TED conference format but was independently organized by a local community.
The other morning, on my way out the door, I spotted a glossy new “Team Barberio” door hanger — the Republican ticket for Mayor and Council in Parsippany. Normally, as a lifelong Republican, I’d toss it straight into the recycling bin without a second thought. But this time, it stopped me.
After the June primary, when the Morris County political machine made sure my preferred Republican candidates lost, I’ve been asking myself what I’m really voting for this November. My Republican friends keep saying, “Tim, hold your nose and vote the ticket.” Sorry — after the last two and a half years, that advice doesn’t smell right.
This administration has sold Parsippany to developers faster than we can sit through another “public hearing.” They’ve ignored residents, disrespected our schools, and turned council meetings into circus acts. Ask a tough question, and you’re labeled the enemy. If standing up for our town makes me a troublemaker, I’ll wear that badge proudly.
Meanwhile, the Morris County “establishment” keeps lecturing us about party unity — the same people who silenced anyone who didn’t play by their rules. Funny how “unity” only seems to matter when it benefits them.
I’d like to tell you I’m switching teams, but honestly, I don’t know much about the Democrats either. They’ve been practically invisible — and if you want people’s votes, showing up is the bare minimum.
So, here’s where I’m at: I won’t stay home, but I won’t vote blindly for a letter next to someone’s name, either. My vote will go to whoever gives a damn about Parsippany, not whoever the Morris County insiders tell me to like.
If that ruffles some feathers — good. It’s about time someone did.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Fire District 5 will host its Annual Fire Prevention Open House on Saturday, October 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Station 2, 200 South Beverwyck Road.
This family-friendly event offers residents the opportunity to meet local firefighters, tour the firehouse, and learn valuable fire safety information. Activities throughout the day will include:
Kids’ activities
Touch-a-Truck
Bounce house
Fire simulator
Try-on fire gear and tools
Fire safety education
In addition to the fun and educational displays, attendees will have the opportunity to see the brand-new Engine 56, which is expected to make its community debut during the event.
Parking will be available at 232 South Beverwyck Road, located next to the firehouse behind the Chinese Christian Church.
Residents of all ages are encouraged to attend and make this year’s Open House even more successful than 2024.
