PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hils Public Library is proud to sponsor the second annual Muslim Heritage Month Celebration, which will take place at the Main Library, 449 Halsey Road, on Saturday, January 25.

From 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., community members are invited to sit in during storytime and participate in crafts. Henna, a children’s performance, and light refreshments will also be there. Celebrate at the Main Library for a culture, learning, and community day. Parsippany Library, Muslim Professional Group, and Deen Little Minds sponsor the Muslim Heritage Month Celebration. Please register for the event here.

“Muslim Heritage Month is an invaluable opportunity to foster dialogue, promote inclusivity… and allow individuals from all backgrounds to learn about the rich and diverse contributions Muslims have made across various fields, including science, art, literature, and philosophy,” Lamia E., Community Member

Lake Hiawatha Branch Library is working to diversify collection development to incorporate Arabic and Persian children’s books over the next few months. If community members are interested in attending Muslim-American Heritage Month Storytime, Lake Hiawatha Branch Library is hosting on Wednesday, January 29, at 6:00 p.m. Please register here.

The Parsippany Library Locations are: Main Library is located at 449 Halsey Road; Lake Hiawatha Branch is located at 68 Nokomis Avenue, Lake Hiawatha (973) 335-0952.

About Parsippany Library

The Parsippany Library serves a diverse population of over 56,000 New Jersey residents, with three library locations in Parsippany, Lake Hiawatha, and Mount Tabor. A main source of community information and entertainment, Parsippany Library has evolved the book, periodical, and audio-visual collections through membership in the Main Library Alliance, which includes access to over 50 public libraries across Essex, Hunterdon, Morris, Somerset, Union, and Warren Counties. Producing and hosting many classes and programs that support lifelong learning, individual health, and cultural and civic events, Parsippany Library continues to evolve past the limitations of a traditional library, remaining a cornerstone in the community. Visit parsippanylibrary.org for more information, hours of operation, and current programming.

MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) introduced legislation requiring State employees to return to office.

“While remote work was necessary at the onset of the pandemic, it has become clear that in-person collaboration is essential for maximizing productivity, accountability, and effective service to the public,” said Sen. Pennacchio. “State agencies are most efficient when employees work together face-to-face, and while I recognize the importance of work-life balance, I believe this transition will strengthen teamwork and improve the delivery of services to the New Jersey residents who rely on them. The taxpayers of New Jersey deserve to know that the State’s workforce is showing up for a full day’s work and will be there to answer the phone when called upon.”

Under current law, the Civil Service Commission is required to adopt rules for State employees’ hours of work. The Model Telework Pilot Program was approved and established by the Civil Service Commission in April 2022. It offered the option for State employees to work remotely up to two working days per week.

You can read the bill, S4057, here.

PARSIPPANY – Get ready for an evening of fun and excitement as the Northvail Elementary School PTA presents its highly anticipated Tricky Tray Fundraiser! The event promises a thrilling night of games, raffles, and prizes to brighten your winter.

Event Details:
📅 Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025
🕕 Time: 6:00 p.m.
📍 Location: Hanover Manor, 16 Eagle Rock Ave., East Hanover

This year’s event features an array of exciting basket raffles, fun games of chance, and incredible grand prizes, including Swiss Gear luggage and more!

Admission Details:
🎟 Cost: $65.00 per person
💰 Includes a four-course dinner and one sheet of Tier 1 raffle tickets
🍹 Cash Bar Available

For those looking to maximize their chances of winning, a Raffle Ticket Add-On Bundle is available for $30 until February 10. This bundle includes:

• 3 sheets of Tier 1 tickets
• 1 sheet of Tier 2 tickets
• 3 grand prize tickets

Additional tickets, including 50/50 raffle tickets, will be available at the event.

Important Notes:

• This event is open to adults aged 18 and older.
• For more information or inquiries, contact NorthvailPTA@gmail.com.

Don’t miss this opportunity to “Win Big This Winter!” Grab your friends, support a great cause, and join the Northvail Elementary School PTA for an unforgettable night.

Mark your calendar and prepare for an evening of fun and fantastic prizes!

MORRIS COUNTY – Morris County proudly hosts a special event to support and inform its veteran community. The Spotlight on Services – Meet the Veterans Services Office event offers local veterans a chance to learn about the resources and benefits available while connecting with dedicated county staff.

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, February 7, 2025
• Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Location: Morris County Veterans Services Office
  540 West Hanover Avenue, Morristown

What to Expect:
Attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Meet the Veterans Services Office team and explore the various programs they offer.
• Learn about Morris County’s grant programs designed specifically for veterans.
• Gain insights from the Morris County Clerk’s Office about their services and support for veterans.
• Participate in an interactive Q&A session to address any questions or concerns.

R.E.D. Shirt Friday
In recognition of the event on a Friday, veterans and attendees are encouraged to wear red as part of “R.E.D. Shirt Friday” – an initiative to honor and support troops and veterans. R.E.D. stands for “Remember Everyone Deployed,” as a reminder to keep deployed service members in our thoughts.

RSVP Information:
To reserve your spot, RSVP by:

• Phone: (973) 285-6866
• Email: MCVETS@co.morris.nj.us

Light refreshments will be served at the event. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about the resources and support available to veterans in Morris County.

The Morris County Veterans Services Office looks forward to welcoming you on February 7.

MORRIS COUNTY – The Morris County Office of Emergency Management is closely monitoring a coastal storm set to impact the area on Sunday, January 19. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch, effective from 10:00 a.m. on Sunday to 1:00 a.m. on Monday, January 20.

Storm Details
Current forecasts predict snow beginning midday Sunday and continuing until around midnight. Expected accumulations range from 2.5 to 6 inches, with heavier snowfall likely in western Morris County. Eastern areas may see slightly less accumulation, depending on where the most intense snow bands develop.

Preparation Recommendations
Residents are encouraged to finalize errands and preparations by Saturday to avoid potential travel disruptions on Sunday. Additionally, the community is reminded to check on elderly neighbors or anyone who may require extra assistance during the storm.

Ongoing Updates
The Morris County Office of Emergency Management will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates after consulting with weather partners. Stay tuned for further information as the storm progresses.

“Take care of any necessary errands now, and plan ahead for Sunday’s snowfall,” officials advised. “We’re all in this together, so please check on those around you who might need a helping hand.”

Stay safe, and keep an eye out for updates throughout the weekend.

PARSIPPANY — On November 25, 2024, at approximately 11:13 a.m., Parsippany-Troy Hills Police responded to an incident involving a disabled vehicle on Route 46 East near the Smith Road intersection. A silver 2018 Honda Pilot with Pennsylvania license plates was observed with a flat tire on the shoulder.

The driver, later identified as Brian Waltke, 34, of Bushkill, PA, was seated in the passenger seat upon the arrival of Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Scott Baker. According to Officer Baker’s report, Mr. Waltke exhibited signs of impairment, including slurred speech and compromised balance. He could not provide clear details on how the vehicle sustained damage, though evidence suggested the tire may have struck a curb.

During the investigation, officers noted fresh blood smears on the driver’s seat. Mr. Waltke claimed he often sustains minor injuries at work and was unsure of the source of the blood. When asked if he required medical attention, he declined assistance.

Mr. Waltke consented to performing roadside sobriety tests. Based on his performance and further investigation, officers determined there was probable cause to arrest him for driving while under the influence of drugs.

Following the arrest, a tow was requested for vehicle impoundment in accordance with John’s Law. Dispatch contacted Ron & Son’s Towing, who arrived to secure the vehicle.

In addition to complaint 1429-S-2024-000354 at Morris County Superior Court, Waltke was charged with the following:

•39:4-50 -Operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs
•39:4-96- Reckless Driving
•39:4-49.1 – Operation of Motor Vehicle While In Possession/Narcotic
•39:4-88 – Traffic on Marked Lanes

Editors Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw and Sheriff James Gannon joined U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, Hanover Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, and other local officials in East Hanover Township to witness the progress being made to “de-snag” sections of the Whippany River, launching debris cleanup efforts to address flooding that has long plagued riverside communities.

The Whippany River Improvement Project initiative is being led by the Whippany-Passaic River Flood Remediation Task Force, which the mayors of the towns along the river formed. The members include Mayor Gallagher, East Hanover Mayor Joseph Pannullo, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr, Morristown Mayor Timothy Dougherty, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio.

Congresswoman Sherrill secured a federal Community Project grant of more than $2 million to fund the work being done in phases. By removing debris from waterways, rivers flow more easily, and capacity is enhanced, which helps to prevent erosion and flooding.

“This initiative, three years in the making, demonstrates the power of partnerships. From local municipalities to federal support, we are working together to alleviate persistent flooding issues that impact so many residents and businesses,” said Deputy Director Shaw, the county commissioners’ liaison to the Morris County Flood Mitigation Program.

“I especially want to thank Mayor Gallagher and Congresswoman Sherrill for their leadership. This is about more than cleaning a river; it’s about reducing flooding and improving the quality of life for Morris County residents,” Shaw added.

According to Mayor Gallagher, Phase 1 of the project has already cleared nearly 275 cubic yards of debris, including trees, railroad ties, shopping carts, and other long-accumulated materials obstructing the river in Hanover Township. Phase 2, currently underway behind the auto store at 30 Ridgedale Avenue in East Hanover, targets another 200 yards of obstructions. Completing the initial phases will require 12 to 15 days of work by professional contractors.

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany continues solidifying its status as a premier business destination, with another notable tenant relocating to The Arbors @ Parsippany.

Woodbridge-based Onyx Equities has announced a significant new lease with Porzio, Bromberg & Newman PC. This marks the second major law firm in recent months to shift its headquarters from Morristown to Parsippany.

On January 17, Woodbridge-based Onyx Equities announced that Porzio, Bromberg & Newman PC inked a 16-year lease for 43,101 square feet at 5 Sylvan Way. The firm, which has called Morristown home since its founding in 1962, is moving its headquarters from 100 Southgate Parkway to the newly upgraded Parsippany campus.

“Our firm has been in Morristown for its entire existence, so it took something spectacular to lure us to a new location, admittedly only a few miles away,” said Porzio Managing Principal Vito Gagliardi Jr. “The attraction to us goes beyond the physical office and includes the entire campus and the extraordinary professionals at Onyx. I thank my colleagues Carmen Andrade, Diane Averell, Nick Drappi, and Phil Siana for capably leading the team that negotiated our new lease. We look forward to moving our headquarters to The Arbors.”

“Parsippany has established itself as a premier location for businesses in New Jersey, and the decision by Porzio, Bromberg & Newman PC to relocate their headquarters here is a testament to our town’s appeal,” said Frank Cahill, Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development. “With outstanding amenities, accessibility, and a thriving business community, Parsippany continues to be the ideal destination for companies looking to grow and succeed.”

The relocation reflects the ongoing appeal of The Arbors @ Parsippany, which recently underwent a $15 million capital improvement campaign completed by Onyx Equities in 2023. The updates transformed the bucolic, 60-acre, five-building campus into a modern, amenity-rich professional hub.

The Arbors now offers an array of in-demand features, including a 5,200-square-foot fitness center, three cafés, conference centers, social lounges, outdoor dining spaces, and recreational areas. The campus also hosts regular event programming and provides 1.5 miles of walking, biking, and hiking trails. Accessibility is another major draw, with the property connected to nearby Interstates 80, 280, and 287, U.S. Routes 46 and 202, and New Jersey Routes 10 and 53. Additionally, a NJ Transit shuttle service provides convenient access to train lines, making it easy for employees to commute.

“The Arbors has become a highly sought-after destination for businesses looking to upgrade their facilities,” said a representative from Onyx Equities. “The combination of modern amenities, scenic grounds, and unmatched accessibility continues to draw top-tier tenants.”

The Porzio lease brings the total influx of new tenants to The Arbors to 89,000 square feet, further cementing the property’s reputation as a preferred location for companies in Parsippany. Cushman & Wakefield Executive Director Josh Cohen represented Porzio, while JLL represented Onyx Equities in the deal.

This latest lease highlights Parsippany’s growing stature as a commercial hub in northern New Jersey. It combines prime real estate opportunities with the town’s strategic location and excellent infrastructure.

If you’ve ever had a bike accident or know someone who has, you know it’s not just about the scrapes and bruises. Sure, a nasty fall can leave you with a broken arm or a totaled bike, but the real kicker? The costs pile up long after the dust (or gravel) settles.

For cyclists, the hidden financial hits can be like riding into a headwind you didn’t see coming. From medical bills and missed work to pay for repairs or legal fees, these unexpected expenses can knock the wind out of you. This article will break it all down: what costs to expect, why they matter, and how you can prepare for the unexpected.

The Medical Bills That Don’t Stop Coming

Let’s start with the obvious – medical costs. When you take a bad fall, the first stop is probably the ER. Ambulance rides aren’t cheap. They can set you back $500 or more, depending on where you live. Once you’re there, tests like X-rays or MRIs can easily run into the thousands.

Then there’s the follow-up care. Need surgery? That’s a big bill. Physical therapy to get you back on your feet or back on your pedals? You’re looking at $75–$350 per session, and it’s not unusual to need weeks or months of it. If you’re one of the millions without insurance, or if your plan doesn’t cover much, you could be paying these out of your pocket.

The Long-Term Health Costs

Sometimes, the injuries don’t heal as quickly as you’d like. A sprained wrist can turn into chronic pain. A head injury might mean ongoing therapy or specialist visits. These aren’t just physical costs but financial ones, too.

A lot of cyclists don’t think about the price of crutches, braces, or even mental health counseling. But if you’re scared to get back on the bike or anxious in traffic after an accident, therapy can really help. Unfortunately, that can mean another $100–$200 per session.

When You Can’t Work

Here’s one people don’t always see coming: the money you lose when you’re stuck at home recovering. If you’ve got a job that lets you work from home, you might dodge this bullet. But if you work in a physical job, or if your injuries make sitting at a desk all day impossible, you might miss out on a paycheck or two.

For freelancers and gig workers, it’s even tougher. No sick days. No benefits. No paycheck. That lost income can really throw a wrench in your finances, especially when you’ve got medical bills piling up.

Replacing Your Bike and Gear

Let’s talk about your ride. Bicycles aren’t cheap, especially if you’re rocking a high-end road bike or mountain bike. A replacement could cost anywhere from $500 to $5,000, or more. Even repairs can add up quickly, especially if the frame or wheels are damaged.

And then there’s your gear. Helmets, lights, cycling shoes, all those things designed to keep you safe or comfortable can get wrecked in an accident. Replacing a good helmet alone can set you back $50–$200, but it’s something you shouldn’t skip after a crash. Helmets are one-and-done when it comes to impacts.

The Legal and Insurance Maze

The aftermath of an accident can feel like being stuck in a maze, and at some point, you might need legal help to find your way out. If a car was involved or someone else was responsible for the crash, you may need to file a claim to cover your expenses.

A good bicycle accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and deal with an insurance company that may try to pay you less than what you deserve. Most people don’t realize that insurers often aim to protect their bottom line, not yours.

Legal fees can vary, but many law firms work on a contingency basis, meaning they get paid only if you win your case. Still, court filings, document processing, and the time spent handling insurance disputes can feel like a job in itself. Meanwhile, if you’re dealing with gaps in insurance, like finding out your bike isn’t covered under your renter’s policy, you might end up covering those costs on your own.

The Emotional Toll (And Its Price Tag)

Crashes don’t just hurt your body; they can mess with your head, too. Anxiety, PTSD, and fear of getting back on the road are more common than you might think.

Dealing with this can take time, energy, and, yes, indeed, more money. Therapy is incredibly helpful, but as we mentioned earlier, it’s not always cheap. If you’re avoiding cycling altogether after an accident, it might mean giving up a hobby or a commute you loved. That’s another hidden cost.

Trying to Prevent It From Happening Again

Once you’ve been through the wringer, you might start looking for ways to avoid another accident. That often means upgrading your gear. Reflective jackets, bright lights, and top-notch helmets can help, but they cost more than the budget options.

Some cyclists even spring for better insurance after a crash, which can add to your monthly bills. It’s a smart move, but it’s another financial hit.

What You Can Do About It

So, how do you protect yourself? Start with the basics: wear a good helmet, follow traffic laws, and make sure your bike is in good shape. It’s also a good idea to look into insurance options that cover you and your bike. Some policies are specifically designed for cyclists.

If you’re riding regularly, set aside an emergency fund for “just in case” moments. Even a little bit saved each month can make a huge difference when something unexpected happens.

Final Thoughts

Bicycle accidents are more than just bumps and bruises. They can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. But being prepared and knowing what to expect can make getting back on the road easier.

Cycling is amazing; accidents shouldn’t stop you from doing what you love. Just make sure you’re ready for whatever comes your way so you can ride with confidence and a little more peace of mind.

PARSIPPANY — All Saints Academy is excited to announce its Annual Tricky Tray event on Friday, February 21, at 189 Baldwin Road. This cherished fundraiser is the school’s largest event of the year, and tickets are still available—but selling fast! Don’t wait—secure your tickets today by contacting the school at (973) 334-4704.

We warmly invite businesses from Parsippany and neighboring communities—including Montville, Boonton, Denville, and beyond—to support this event by donating items, services, or gift certificates or by becoming sponsors. As a token of appreciation, as space permits, contributors will be recognized in the event program and on our Facebook page, All Saints Academy Annual Tricky Tray.

Your support is instrumental in providing our students with the resources they need to thrive. The funds raised from this event directly impact our ability to deliver a high-quality, well-rounded education to the next generation of leaders.

How to Contribute:
If you or your business would like to get involved, please contact Laura Febbi at Lfebbi@gmail.com or call (973) 214-7520 for more information.

About All Saints Academy:
All Saints Academy is a vibrant, inclusive Catholic community serving students from Preschool through Grade 8. Rooted in faith and tradition, our mission is to inspire confident, responsible, and globally-minded learners while nurturing their academic, emotional, and spiritual development.

To learn more about All Saints Academy or to schedule a tour, call us at (973) 334-4704.

We can’t wait to see you at the Tricky Tray, and we thank you for helping make this event a success.

PARSIPPANY – Registration is now open for the Spring 2025 season of the Parsippany-Troy West Little League (PTWLL), with a registration deadline set for March 1, 2025. Boys and girls ages 4 to 16 are invited to join one of the many divisions offered in either softball or baseball.

The league provides opportunities for young athletes of all skill levels, divided into appropriate age brackets. The divisions for softball include:

• Farm League: Ages 6–8 (must be 6 by December 31, 2024).
• Minor League: Ages 8–10 (must be 8 by December 31, 2024).
• Major League: Ages 10–12 (must be 10 by December 31, 2024).
• Junior League: Ages 13–16 (must be 13 by December 31, 2024).

For baseball, the divisions are as follows:

• T-ball: Ages 4–6 (must be 4 by August 31, 2025).
• Farm League: Ages 6–8 (must be 6 by August 31, 2025).
• Minor League: Ages 8–10 (must be 8 by August 31, 2025).
• Major League: Ages 10–12 (must be 10 by August 31, 2025).
• Junior League: Ages 13–16 (must be 13 by August 31, 2025).

The participation fee for the season is $100.00 per player.

Parents can register online by clicking here. Families are encouraged to contact Sandy at sandra4a@aol.com for additional questions or information.

With the registration deadline fast approaching, PTWLL organizers urge parents to secure their children’s spots as soon as possible to ensure a fun and exciting season on the field.

PARSIPPANY – The Morris Hills Shopping Center, a prominent retail hub in Parsippany, is grappling with a high vacancy rate as major tenants have vacated recently. The 159,561-square-foot shopping center currently has 133,506 square feet of unoccupied space, reflecting the departure of key businesses, including Marshalls, HomeGoods, Blink Fitness, and Cinepolis.

Blink Fitness closed its doors on August 30, 2024, following the company’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, adding to the challenges for the shopping center. Cinepolis, an upscale movie theater, shuttered during the COVID-19 pandemic, and retail giants Marshalls and HomeGoods have also exited, leaving large portions of the property empty.

Redevelopment Plans Underway

The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council recently passed a resolution authorizing the Planning Board to investigate whether the shopping center qualifies as an “area in need of redevelopment” under New Jersey law. This designation could lead to a comprehensive redevelopment plan to revitalize the space and attract new tenants.

Christine Winter, a Planner from ARH Associates, has been appointed to lead the preliminary investigation. Her team will assess the shopping center’s current conditions against state criteria, considering underutilization, obsolescence, and the impact of vacancies on the surrounding community.

Potential Outcomes

If the Planning Board concludes that the Morris Hills Shopping Center qualifies as an “area in need of redevelopment,” the Township Council may designate it as such and begin creating a Redevelopment Plan. The plan could include zoning adjustments, infrastructure improvements, and partnerships with developers to reimagine the shopping center into a vibrant commercial hub.

The shopping center’s challenges mirror broader trends in the retail sector, where changes in consumer habits and the rise of e-commerce have led to shifts in demand for traditional brick-and-mortar spaces. Despite these challenges, township officials are optimistic about the potential for transformation.

As Parsippany moves forward with this initiative, the redevelopment of the Morris Hills Shopping Center could serve as a model for revitalizing underutilized commercial spaces across the region. Public updates on the project will be shared at future council and Planning Board meetings.

Brixmor owns Morris Hills Shopping Center and operates approximately 360 retail centers nationwide, where retailers and communities connect and thrive.