Ulta Beauty is located at 46 Waterview Blvd, Parsippany-Troy Hills
PARSIPPANY — On January 31, 2024, at 12:24 p.m., Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officers were called to Ulta Beauty at 46 Waterview Boulevard following a report of a recent shoplifting incident.
However, by the time officers arrived, the suspects had already left the vicinity. According to information provided by store employees, three females entered the establishment, allegedly shoplifted products exceeding $400 in value, and then quickly departed the scene.
The investigation into this matter is currently underway, and individuals with any relevant information are urged to contact the Investigative Division of the Parsippany Department at (973) 263-4300.
Homesense is located at 56 Waterview Blvd, Parsippany-Troy Hills
PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, January 31, at 6:50 p.m., law enforcement personnel were dispatched to Homesense at 56 Waterview Boulevard in response to a reported shoplifting incident.
The Loss Prevention Officer provided details, stating that two Caucasian males dressed in black had entered the store at approximately 1:20 p.m. on Thursday, January 25. They were alleged to have shoplifted merchandise valued at around $490 before departing the area.
The investigation into this matter remains ongoing. If you possess any pertinent information, please contact the Investigative Division of the Parsippany Department at (973) 263-4300.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany teenager Eashan Iyer has earned a spot on the prestigious International Research Olympiad (IRO) leadership team, led by renowned Harvard researcher Rishab Jain, who is recognized as one of TIME’s 25 Most Influential Teens and America’s Top Young Scientist.
The IRO is changing the landscape for students in grades 6-12 seeking research opportunities at local universities and summer programs, equipping them with the necessary skills to make practical contributions. Eashan Iyer, a senior at The Academy for Mathematics, Science, and Engineering in Rockaway, and an incoming student at Brown University’s Class of 2028, expressed his excitement about this pioneering competition and the opportunity to lead an international team of high school students.
The 2024 IRO, overseen by the Samyak Science Society, a nonprofit promoting science research and STEM education, aims to become a global science competition. It seeks to foster a passion for research worldwide, with plans for country-based open examinations, semi-finals, and finals to award future gold, silver, and bronze accolades. In the coming years, the IRO plans to conduct examinations on a country-by-country basis, host a camp, and hold finals at Harvard University in Cambridge, MA.
For more information, visit the International Research Olympiad website before the official registration opening in early February.
Eashan Iyer, part of the International Research Olympiad leadership team, manages a group of 10 students to develop the organization’s curriculum and create practice exam materials. He is a senior at The Academy for Mathematics, Science, and Engineering with a keen interest in theoretical physics. In December 2022, he published his first research paper titled “Quantization of the ModMax Oscillator” in Physical Review D (PRD), a leading journal in physics. He is currently engaged in computational research in quantum cohomology and will attend Brown University in the fall of 2024 to continue his physics research and applied mathematics. Eashan is also an Eagle Scout and enjoys origami. Learn more about him by clicking here.
About the IRO: The International Research Olympiad is a groundbreaking competition promoting science research skills for students in grades 6-12. Administered by the parent nonprofit organization Samyak Science Society, the IRO aims to inspire the next generation of scientists. For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information, contact iro@samyakscience.com.
PARSIPPANY — The residents along River Drive in Lake Hiawatha are earnestly urging the extension of the Flood Wall to cover the entire stretch of River Drive. The Rockaway River, an integral part of the Passaic River system, interconnects with various rivers and tributaries, influencing water flow in both directions.
Constructed in 1986 in compliance with state standards and Army Corps of Engineers’ specifications, the Lake Hiawatha Flood Wall was originally engineered to withstand a 100-year flood. However, recent changes in Lake Hiawatha’s flood risk due to shifting environmental factors have heightened concerns. Events of all kinds now pose a greater threat to properties within our community. Consequently, extending the current Flood Wall along River Drive is imperative.
As taxpayers and residents, we have a fundamental right to live without the constant fear of losing our homes or lives. Given the alterations in flood maps and climate patterns since the Flood Wall’s construction, it is now an urgent necessity for the Township of Parsippany Troy Hills to address the pressing flooding issue along the Rockaway River, which directly impacts the residents of River Drive in Lake Hiawatha. We implore the Township to promptly consider the construction of either an extended Flood Wall or a Flood Levee along the Rockaway River/River Drive.
We, the people of Lake Hiawatha, passionately request that the Township of Parsippany Troy Hills, a part of Morris County, take immediate action on this matter before a catastrophic event occurs. Please show your support by signing and sharing this petition by clicking here. Thank you for your cooperation.
Parsippany Hills High School is one of two high schools in the district. Parsippany also comprises ten elementary schools, two junior high schools, and another senior high school.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany School District in New Jersey will receive $167,152 in funding from the state. This funding is part of a $75 million allocation by the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) and the New Jersey Schools Development Authority (SDA) to support emergent construction and capital needs in school districts across the state. These funds can be used for various purposes, including emergent or capital maintenance projects, offsetting eligible project or maintenance costs incurred during the current fiscal year, and addressing critical school infrastructure needs.
The funds may be directed towards projects such as:
Site upgrades
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) repairs or replacement
Renovations to the building envelope (masonry, roofing, etc.)
Safety and security enhancements
Building maintenance activities
Governor Phil Murphy emphasized the importance of improving education outcomes and ensuring safe and conducive classroom environments for students. Other Morris County Districts that will also receive funding from this allocation include East Hanover, Florham Park, Hanover Township, Madison, Roxbury, Randolph, Montville, District of the Chathams, Denville, Bulter, and Kinnelon.
The funding aims to support necessary renovations and facility upgrades in school buildings across the state, with a focus on creating safe, secure, and supportive learning environments. The NJDOE website provides additional details on the funding available to local school districts for eligible project costs in this round of funding.
PARSIPPANY — Join the Golden Age Club of Saint Peters Today!
Are you someone who enjoys socializing and good company? If so, we extend a warm invitation to become a member of the Golden Age Club. The club offers a variety of activities, including luncheons, guest speakers, entertaining performances, exciting trips, and plenty of laughter.
Membership Requirements:
Age 60 and above
Resident of Parsippany
A penchant for socializing and connecting with others
Where: The Community Center, 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha.
When: The 1st and 3rd Monday of each month.
Time: The gatherings start at 11:30 a.m., but on the next meeting day, February 5, we invite you to join us for coffee and cake at 11:00 a.m.
For any inquiries or to express your interest, please don’t hesitate to contact Doris O’Rourke via email at dior2m@yahoo.com.
Golden and crispy fish and chips, a classic comfort food delight! 🐟🍟 #FishAndChips #ComfortFood
PARSIPPANY — Join Saint Ann’s for the 2024 Fish & Chips Dinner on Friday, March 8. This delectable dinner will be catered by Argyles and held at the Parish Center, located at 781 Smith Road in Parsippany.
Here are the details:
•Take-out dinners can be picked up from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
•Sit-down dinners will be served from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
•Advance sale tickets are priced at $20.00 for adults and $10.00 for children.
•Tickets can be obtained after Mass on March 2nd, and 3rd, or at the Church Office.
•Please consider purchasing your tickets in advance, as only a limited number will be available on the day of the event.
The proceeds from this dinner will contribute to our charitable work.
For further information, please don’t hesitate to call us at (973) 884-1986. We look forward to sharing this delightful evening with you.
Vail's hopeful eyes shine with the promise of a loving forever home. 🐾❤️ #AdoptDontShop
PARSIPPANY — Once upon a time, in a world filled with wagging tails and joyful barks, there lived a two-year-old Havanese named Vail. She is a little pup with a heart full of hope, seeking her forever home.
Vail longed for a home where patience and understanding would be her guiding stars. She needed time to build her confidence and emerge from her shell, but once she did, she promised to be the most loyal friend anyone could ever wish for. With her mostly calm and easygoing nature, she would be a perfect fit for a quiet, low-activity household.
Vail’s personality was as sweet as the honeyed sunshine, and her eyes held an eagerness to please and love like no other. She was incredibly clever and knew how to gently paw at you, asking for your attention and affection. Trust was her currency, and once she deemed you trustworthy, she would revel in belly scratches, ear massages, and holding “paws” with you. Vail’s heart was a snuggle enthusiast, and she always kept a watchful eye on her chosen person. Toys were a curiosity she was just beginning to explore, preferring the company of her human companion for playtime.
Around children, Vail’s timid side occasionally surfaced, making her more comfortable around kids above the age of 13. However, when it came to her fellow canines, she was all smiles and tail wags. Cats remained a mystery to her.
Vail had also learned the art of crate training. A few barks at first, but then she settled down and behaved quite nicely. House training was still a work in progress, but she was eager to please and showed enthusiasm for outdoor potty breaks.
In terms of training, Vail had never experienced the warmth of a home until her foster family took her in. Thus, she needed a patient owner who would help her blossom and continue her socialization journey. Walking on a leash was a skill she was mastering, and her intelligence and eagerness made her a quick learner. Already, she knew the command “sit” and responded well to a firm “no.”
Vail’s journey to finding her forever home was a story of resilience and hope. She had once been part of the heartbreaking world of puppy mills, where dogs were overbred and rejected for reasons beyond their control. Some were deemed undesirable due to birth defects or the wrong color of fur or eyes. Unwanted and unloved, these dogs faced a grim fate. But Vail was fortunate to find her way to WISE ANIMAL RESCUE, a compassionate haven that saved dogs like her from needless destruction.
Now, Vail was waiting patiently, her heart filled with hope, for that special family who would cherish her for the beautiful soul she was. To connect with WISE ANIMAL RESCUE and embark on the heartwarming journey of welcoming Vail into your home, click here to learn more about Vail.
The Social Hub by Dhaba, a recently established Indian-inspired, multi-cuisine, sports-themed premium restaurant and lounge in the area, has seamlessly brought the same caliber of food, service, and exhilaration typically sought after in NYC right to the heart of Parsippany.
PARSIPPANY — Many people don’t seem to mind dealing with the traffic, bridges, tunnels, parking, and what I find other inconveniences that one can inevitably expect to encounter when treading over the state line to dine in one of those trendy hot spot eateries in Manhattan. Don’t get me wrong, I also enjoy the City when I get there, but I don’t enjoy the trip.
The Social Hub by Dhaba, a relatively new to the area, Indian-inspired, multi-cuisine, sports-themed, premium restaurant and lounge, has brought the same quality of food, service, and excitement you look for in NYC right here to Parsippany-Troy Hills with their new location on Route 46 East, taking over the area formerly occupied by Houlihan’s. I was fortunate to be at the Social Hubs soft opening in May of 2023, and it was time for a return visit.
The attention-grabbing artwork adorning the front, the imaginative and playful art installations, and the embellishments thoughtfully scattered throughout the interior space.
It is notably rare to find a sports-themed Indian restaurant, but finding one at this elevated level has to be unique. A definite Indian theme is prominent throughout the venue, yet as I stated, there is a definite NYC vibe and ambiance, particularly in the lounge area. You can’t help but be impressed with the interior décor and design. The softly lit lounge area is elegantly embellished with a warm and comfy cultured stone fireplace, brick veneer and off-white walls, a black ceiling with recessed lighting and ceiling fans, dark chocolate, soft wooden seating, and accents, with attractive upholstery. Romantic alcove seating and individual seating along the wall are available—something for everyone’s preference. The utilization of color, design, Bollywood artwork, and ethnic garnishments certainly adds to the elegance of the upscale yet casual, immaculately clean, and comfortable setting.
With soft-club/techno music comfortably playing in the background, we chose to sit at their spacious, gorgeous rectangular bar for one of their signature cocktails and to order a few appetizers, or as they listed them, “finger foods,” to later go into their separate dining area for our entrees. Bartenders Pranay Raj and Teresa Vaca were the best, amiable, helpful, and professional in helping us navigate through Social Hub’s menu options; an extensive menu filled with authentic Indian flavors in traditional and fusion dishes. I should note the menu also offers non-traditional food, veg and non-veg, including onion rings, nachos, fish and chips, burgers, pizza, and pasta for those looking for other options.
While Pranay offered some requested suggestions for our appetizers, I perused the multiple large-screen televisions mounted throughout the restaurant. What a great place to catch your favorite game, be it football, baseball, cricket, or whatever!
Methi Murgh Tikka (a delicious, mildly flavored, boneless, white meat chicken curry dish)
I started with a Smokey Negroni (Rozaluna Mezcal, Campari, Sweet Vermouth), while my friend ordered a Spicy Mango Martini (Tito’s Vodka with Siracha, fresh lime, mango puree). Teresa prepared them perfectly. Delicious Negroni! I was also informed that all the bar ingredients at Social Hub are fresh and made in-house every day. The cocktail menu was just as impressive as everything else at Social Hub. It included many unique and interesting libations, along with mocktails for those who prefer their drinks without alcohol. A large selection of draught beers, including IPAs and craft selections, are also available, and yes, you can even get a Guinness Irish Stout if that’s your preference. I did have to try a TAJ Mahal Premium Lager before I left.
Social Hub Cauliflower Manchurian (Fried Cauliflower tossed in Manchurian Sauce)
Our appetizers arrived quickly. We started with and shared Veg Momos – Tandoori Flavored (Steamed Dumplings made with paneer, onion, ginger, and veggies in tandoori marination); Social Hub Cauliflower Manchurian (Fried Cauliflower tossed in Manchurian Sauce); Kat-E-Soya (Skewered soya chunks in a pickle marinade); and Methi Murgh Tikka (a delicious, mildly flavored, boneless, white meat chicken curry dish). Every dish was a treat! Packed with flavor! We both enjoyed every bite, and even though we were both quite full, as every dish was plentiful, I insisted on having at least one of their entrees.
Kat-E-Soya (Skewered soya chunks in a pickle marinade)
As I stated earlier, initially, we planned on moving into the dining room for our entrée, but we had such a good time at the bar that we decided to finish our meal there. For that entrée, we decided on Bhuna (a rich, bold, flavorful, thick curry dish cooked with chicken). You can choose several proteins that you can have your Bhuna cooked with, including lamb, goat, shrimp, or veg. This dish was fantastic and came with sides of Basmati rice and Naan (for dipping into that wonderful sauce)! The taste created by the layers of spices was obvious. The taste was bold, rich, and spicy. It was Spicy yet mild and came covered in a deep, flavorful sauce. I would certainly order this dish again.
Veg Momos – Tandoori Flavored (Steamed Dumplings made with paneer, onion, ginger, and veggies in tandoori marination)
Never one to give up, we moved on to desserts. Once again, on Pranay’s suggestion, we went with the Tres Kesar Leches and the Social Falooda. The Milky Tres Kesar Leches was excellent. Spongy, rich, light, soaked with a saffron-infused milk sauce and topped with sweet fresh cream. Thumbs up on that one! Our second dessert, a Social Falooda, is a dessert I’ve never heard of, but it was delicious and a nice change of pace. It had a sweet and rosy floral flavor and was full of different textures. This dessert ice cream provided yet another layer of creaminess, which complemented the vermicelli, basil seeds, and nuts that comprise this dessert. It was a great meal all around!
It’s no wonder Indian cuisine is snowballing, not only in the U.S. but worldwide, and it is easy to understand why, considering the vibrant, complex flavors, bold spices, exciting textures, and aromatic fresh ingredients that this cuisine is known for. You will undoubtedly experience taste combinations and overlapping flavors unlike those you will find with any other cuisine worldwide.
The Milky Tres Kesar Leches was excellent. Spongy, rich, light, soaked with a saffron-infused milk sauce and topped with sweet fresh cream. Thumbs up on that one!
The Fine Indian Group brings us Social Hub by Dhaba. The group owns 11 New York and New Jersey restaurants, four of which are in Parsippany. Parsippany includes Jashan, Dhaba Express, LaZeez, and Social Hub. Interestingly, all their restaurants are unique and offer diners a different dining experience.
Are you looking for a great venue for date night, a place to catch a game, a place to meet and hang out with friends, have a business meeting, or just a cool place to enjoy a great meal? Social Hub by Dhaba might be just what you’re looking for. Give it a try; I think you’ll enjoy your visit.
Social Hub by Dhaba, 1735 Route 46 East, Parsippany-Troy Hills. (862) 401-2800.
Social Hours Special Menu Available at Bar Every Weekday From 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Available for Events & Catering – Birthdays – Wedding Receptions – Corporate Events.
Celebrates all Traditional Indian Holidays (follow on social media for details)
Valet parking on Weekends: Large private parking lot: Outdoor dining (weather permitting). Take Out
Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 Midnight and Friday and Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2024. Click here to read.
This structure is one of the four buildings situated at 1259 Route 46 East slated for demolition to accommodate the construction of the Top Golf facility. The building in question is currently vacant and undergoing preparations for demolition, with the only remaining task being the removal of T-Mobile's towers from the site.
PARSIPPANY — During a routine patrol on the evening of Sunday, January 21, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Jesse Hughes noticed an individual, whom he recognized as homeless, peering out from the second-floor window of a commercial building located at 1259 Route 46 at 8:49 p.m.
Officers subsequently approached and identified the individual as Vrajesh Patel, a 33-year-old male. Following a brief investigation, it was determined that Patel had not unlawfully entered any locked offices within the building. However, it was discovered that he had been previously advised by the building owner not to enter the premises.
Further checks revealed that Patel had an active traffic warrant issued by the Hardyston Township Municipal Court, with bail set at $4,500, and an active criminal warrant for his arrest issued by the Parsippany Municipal Court for failure to appear.
Consequently, he was taken into custody and transported to the Parsippany Police headquarters. There, he was processed and provided with a new court date for the Parsippany warrant.
Subsequently, the Hardyston Police Department responded to Parsippany Police headquarters and took custody of Patel since he was unable to post bail. Notably, the building is largely vacant in preparation for its demolition to make way for the new Top Golf facility.
PARSIPPANY — On Tuesday, January 23, at 7:27 a.m., Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officers swiftly responded to a reported residential burglary and vehicle theft at a residence located on Nicki Court. The victim reported that an unknown uspects had gained unauthorized entry into their home through a window. Astonishingly, despite the intrusion being captured on CCTV footage at around 5:00 a.m., the occupants were unaware of the suspects’ presence within the house. The unidentified culprits not only entered the residence but also moved one vehicle in the driveway to access and subsequently steal two vehicles: a 2023 BMW IX and a 2019 Audi Q7.
Following the incident, the Parsippany Police Department received updates regarding the stolen vehicles.
At slightly past 9:00 a.m., they were informed that the Newark Police Department had recovered the 2023 BMW IX, which was found unoccupied. Later, around 1:00 p.m., the Newark Police Department provided further information, stating that they had successfully located the stolen 2019 Audi and apprehended two male individuals in connection with the theft. Newark Police Department subsequently levied appropriate charges against the arrested individuals.
The investigation into this incident is actively ongoing, and authorities are seeking any information that may aid in resolving the case. Individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact the Parsippany Department’s Investigative Division at (973) 263-4300.
MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey residents witnessed the official declaration of New Jersey State Senator Jon Bramnick as a candidate seeking the Republican nomination for the 2025 gubernatorial election. In front of a gathering of hundreds of supporters, Bramnick officially declared his candidacy, articulating his ambition to seek the Republican Party’s nomination for the New Jersey governorship.
Bramnick, a seasoned attorney from Westfield, boasts a rich political background. He initiated his political journey by serving on the Plainfield City Council from 1984 to 1991. Subsequently, he held a distinguished position in the Assembly from 2003 to 2021 and was later elected by his peers to lead the Assembly Republican Caucus. In 2021, he secured a seat in the New Jersey State Senate, where he currently serves. Alongside his political career, Bramnick is also the founder of a thriving private law practice known as Bramnick, Rodriguez, Grabas, Arnold, and Magan, which employs a workforce of over 25 attorneys and 35 support staff. His steadfast commitment extends to his personal life as well, having been married to Patricia Bramnick for an impressive 42 years and raising two children, Brent and Abby.
Bramnick also released his first ad campaign.
In conjunction with his candidacy announcement, Bramnick unveiled his inaugural ad campaign. His campaign itinerary spans the next 17 months, during which he intends to traverse the state, engaging with voters, and articulating his qualifications and vision for the future of New Jersey. Bramnick has pledged to focus not only on his campaign but also on bolstering fellow Republicans in the 2024 and 2025 elections, aiming to instate fiscally responsible, good-government policies across all levels of government.
Patricia Bramnick has been married to Jon for 42 years and is an accomplished artist who has displayed her works in shows around the county. They have two adult children, Brent and Abby.
Central to his campaign is the idea of restoring equilibrium in government. Bramnick has committed to ending the single-party dominance in Trenton, vowing to make New Jersey a safer, more affordable, and prosperous state. He emphasized the necessity of reintroducing balanced public safety policies in Trenton, ones that align with the preferences of the majority of citizens. Bramnick believes that bringing back balance requires the presence of two political parties in Trenton, and electing a Republican Governor will compel Democrats to engage in compromise, thereby curbing the recurring trend of escalating budgets, tax and fee hikes, and lenient crime policies often greenlit by the Democrats.
Bramnick has pushed back against his party’s conservative wing, often arguing that former President Donald Trump’s policies and inflammatory rhetoric are out of touch with New Jersey’s Republicans.
Jon: A Trusted Friend and Effective Leader, Recalls Morris County Republican Chairwoman Laura Ali
“Jon was one of the first political connections I made nearly 20 years ago,” said Morris County Republican Chairwoman Laura Ali. He is a true friend and an elected official who knows how to get things done.
Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen: Bramnick is A Dedicated Leader for Our State
Bramnick’s campaign has garnered support from prominent figures within the Republican Party, including Assemblywomen Michele Matsikoudis (R-21) and Nancy Munoz (R-21), Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen, Morris County Republican Chairwoman Laura Ali, and Union County Republican Chairman Glenn Mortimer. Laura Ali, Morris County Republican Chairwoman, expressed her long-standing friendship and admiration for Bramnick, highlighting his capacity to deliver results as an elected official.
As Jon Bramnick sets out on his gubernatorial campaign journey, he does so with a clear vision and a team of supporters who believe in his ability to bring positive change to New Jersey’s political landscape.
In front of an enthusiastic crowd of over 1,000 supporters, Bramnick made his announcement, expressing his aspiration to represent the Republican Party in the race for the governorship of New Jersey.
Bramnick is the first Republican candidate to enter the race. On the Democratic side, Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop and former Senate President Steve Sweeney have already launched bids for a race still two years away. Democratic Governor Phil Murphy is in his second term and prohibited from seeking a third.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officers swiftly responded to a concerning incident on January 24 at 3:45 p.m. The call reported a stolen motor vehicle from 60 E. Halsey Road. Upon their prompt arrival, they encountered a distressed victim who narrated the alarming event.
According to the victim, the security officer on the premises had witnessed their 2024 Red Land Rover being driven away from the property. The alert security officer wasted no time in notifying the vehicle’s owner. What added to the intrigue of the case was that the victim disclosed that a set of keys had been carelessly left inside the vehicle, inadvertently aiding the thief.
The investigation began immediately, with law enforcement agencies working tirelessly to locate the missing Land Rover. The case took a promising turn when the Newark Police Department reported the discovery of the stolen vehicle on January 25. Though relieved by the recovery, the victim’s ordeal was not yet fully resolved, as questions remained about the identity of the perpetrator and the circumstances of the theft.
The Parsippany Department’s Investigative Division has since taken charge of the ongoing investigation into this incident. As they work diligently to unravel the details, they seek the cooperation of the community in helping to bring the culprits to justice.
Anyone who may have witnessed the theft or possesses information that could aid in solving the case is urged to contact the Parsippany Department’s Investigative Division at (973) 263-4300. Your assistance is crucial in ensuring the resolution of this matter and preventing further incidents of this nature.
Parsippany's ban on plastic bags went into effect February 6, 2020 while New Jersey went into effect May 4, 2022
MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy (D-NJ) and New Jersey state legislators celebrated the enactment of a new law banning plastic and paper shopping bags in 2020. However, a recent study reveals that this move has unintentionally led to a nearly threefold increase in plastic consumption at Garden State checkout counters.
“Plastic bags are one of the most problematic forms of waste, contributing to millions of discarded bags that find their way into our landfills, rivers, and oceans annually,” emphasized Governor Phil Murphy during the signing ceremony of the bag ban bill in November 2020. “With the historic signing of this bill today, we are directly addressing the issue of plastic pollution, offering solutions that will combat climate change and protect our environment for generations to come.”
In addition to bags, it banned polystyrene cups, plates, takeout cartons, and other food containers made of the material often called Styrofoam. Paper bags were also banned at large supermarkets and big box stores. The council estimates that 164 million paper bags have been eliminated per year.
On the other hand, when you visit the supermarket’s produce counter, you can use plastic bags to package your fruits.
It’s fascinating to observe the contrasting approaches to packaging and bagging in different establishments. At Wendy’s, you can enjoy a Jr. Cheeseburger Deluxe for less than $2.00, and it comes wrapped in paper and served in a paper bag. On the other hand, when you visit the supermarket’s produce counter, you can use plastic bags to package your fruits. However, the situation takes a turn when you proceed to check out with your other groceries, as you are required to purchase a bag, highlighting the inconsistency in the approach to packaging and bagging across different businesses.
You can purchase any product at Wendy’s and they can serve you in a paper bag, while Paper bags are banned at large supermarkets and big box stores.
Fast forward four years, and the evidence suggests that New Jersey’s ban on bags failed to reduce plastic usage and has had the opposite effect. According to a new study released on January 9 by the Freedonia Group, the usage of plastic shopping bags in New Jersey has surged from 53 million pounds before the state’s bag ban to a staggering 151 million pounds since the prohibition was implemented.
Freedonia Custom Research (FCR), a division of Marketresearch.com, released a report detailing the impact of New Jersey’s single-use bag ban on consumer behavior, retail practices in the state, and the environment. The outcome of the ban, revealed by market research, interviews, and comprehensive studies, unveils a complicated landscape as bag purchasing behavior continues to evolve.
In 2022, following the implementation of the New Jersey bag ban, total bag volumes declined by more than 60% to 894 million bags. However, the study also shows, that following New Jersey’s ban on single-use bags, the shift from plastic film to alternative bags resulted in a nearly 3x increase in plastic consumption for bags. At the same time, 6x more woven and non-woven polypropylene plastic was consumed to produce the reusable bags sold to consumers as an alternative. Most of these alternative bags are made with non-woven polypropylene, which is not widely recycled in the United States and does not typically contain any post-consumer recycled materials. This shift in material also resulted in a notable environmental impact, with the increased consumption of polypropylene bags contributing to a 500% increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to non-woven polypropylene bag production in 2015. Notably, non-woven polypropylene, NWPP, the dominant alternative bag material, consumes over 15 times more plastic and generates more than five times the amount of GHG emissions during production per bag than polyethylene plastic bags.
The study also found that New Jersey retailers faced significant changes in their front-end business operations due to the bag ban. No longer permitted to provide complimentary single-use plastic or paper bags, retailers are offering alternative bags for sale to fill the void. Simultaneously, consumers are rapidly transitioning to grocery pickup and delivery services, which typically require the use of new alternative bags for every transaction. As a result, alternative bag sales grew exponentially, and the shift in bag materials has proven profitable for retailers. An in-depth cost analysis evaluating New Jersey grocery retailers reveals a typical store can profit $200,000 per store location from alternative bag sales – for one major retailer this amounts to an estimated $42 million in profit across all its bag sales in NJ.
Despite retailers finding a compelling business case for selling alternative bags at a profit, the increased plastic consumption and GHG emissions generated during alternative bag production hamper retailers’ ability to promote alternative polypropylene bags. FCR’s analysis of New Jersey bag demand and trade data for alternative bags finds that, on average, an alternative bag is reused only two to three times before being discarded, falling short of the recommended reuse rates necessary to mitigate the greenhouse gas emissions generated during production and address climate change.
PARSIPPANY — Bethany Brodock, a graduate of Parsippany High School’s Class of 2020, has achieved an impressive academic milestone by being named among the 404 students on Thiel College’s Dean’s List for the fall 2023 semester.
To earn a place on the Dean’s List at Thiel College, a student must maintain a high academic standard, attaining a grade point average (GPA) of 3.4 or higher on a 4.0 scale, all while being enrolled full-time.
Bethany Brodock, from Lake Hiawatha, is pursuing her studies in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Thiel College. She was an active member of the senior class during the past fall semester, contributing to the vibrant academic community at the college.
Thiel College, situated in Greenville, Pennsylvania, stands as an independent institution founded in the Lutheran tradition. Offering a diverse array of academic opportunities, the college provides 60 majors and minors supports 24 varsity sports, and maintains an impressive 11:1 student-faculty ratio.
Additionally, Thiel College is proud to house master’s degree programs in business administration, physician assistant studies, and speech-language pathology. These master’s programs offer innovative and expedited five-year pathways, allowing students to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years.
The college’s unwavering commitment to education is exemplified by its dedicated faculty, dynamic research initiatives, and extensive internship opportunities, which together yield exceptional outcomes for graduate school placements and job opportunities. Thiel College, coeducational from its inception, upholds a tradition of combining time-honored values with innovative approaches as it pays tribute to its history while embracing the future.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2024. Click here to read.
Carolina Alvarez Unity Bank Operations Manager, Mayor James Barberio and Unity Bank Area Manager Dhaval (DJ) Bhatt
PARSIPPANY — Unity Bank recently demonstrated its commitment to the local community by making a generous donation to the Parsippany Food Pantry. In a heartwarming moment captured in a photo, Dhaval (DJ) Bhatt, Area Manager of Unity Bank, and Carolina Alvarez, Operations Manager, were joined by Mayor James Barberio as they contributed to this important cause.
The Parsippany Emergency Food Pantry, a lifeline for residents facing food insecurity, is conveniently located at 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha.
This vital resource, known as the Parsippany Food Pantry, welcomes Parsippany residents in need and operates from the Parsippany Community Center. The Food Pantry extends a helping hand to those in the community every week, providing them with essential groceries. To qualify for assistance, residents can simply complete a brief application at the Health Department and present proof of residency. For any inquiries or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact them at (973) 263-7160.
Unity Bank, located at 66 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha, stands as a community-oriented commercial bank, offering a wide range of account options along with a comprehensive suite of business products and online services. Their commitment to local causes, as evidenced by their recent donation to the Parsippany Food Pantry, reflects their dedication to making a positive impact within the communities they serve.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2024. Click here to read.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority (MCMUA) has scheduled four Household Hazardous Waste Disposal events in Morris County, New Jersey. The event dates are as follows:
Saturday, May 11, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, at 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany.
Saturday, June 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, at 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany.
Saturday, September 14, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy at 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany.
Saturday, October 26, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy at 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany.
These events offer Morris County residents the opportunity to safely dispose of household hazardous materials they no longer need. Please note that businesses are not permitted to participate in these disposal events.
It’s important to be aware that electronic devices (e-waste) will no longer be accepted at MCMUA’s one-day household hazardous waste events. Residents are encouraged to contact (973) 829-8006 for information and to explore alternative recycling options.
Acceptable materials for disposal include:
Aerosol cans
Asbestos
Automotive fluids
Driveway sealant and roofing tar
Fire extinguishers
Gasoline, kerosene, and diesel fuel
Household cleaning products
Lead acid batteries
Button cell batteries
Lithium-ion batteries
Rechargeable batteries
Mercury-containing bulbs and devices
Muriatic acid
Oil-based paints, stains, lacquers, and varnishes
Paint thinners
Paint removers and solvents
Pesticides
Herbicides
Fertilizers
Photo chemicals
Pool chemicals
Propane tanks weighing 20 pounds or less
Items that cannot be accepted include:
Alkaline and carbon zinc batteries
Business waste
Compressed gas cylinders
Containers larger than 5 gallons
Empty containers
Explosives
Hazardous waste generated outside of Morris County
Highly reactive and unstable materials
Medical waste
Radioactive materials
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Unknown or unlabeled materials
Used consumer electronics
Water-based paint and latex paint
For additional information or inquiries, please call (973) 829-8006 or visit the MCMUA website.
MORRIS COUNTY — Antony J. Iacono, President of County College of Morris (CCM), has consistently earned recognition as a prominent figure in higher education according to ROI-NJ, a business publication in the state. Iacono has been consistently featured on ROI-NJ’s Influencers: Power List 2024 – Higher Education for the past five years, standing alongside esteemed colleagues in higher education. This year, he was among only three community college presidents to earn this distinction. ROI-NJ’s ranking specifically lauded Iacono for his pivotal role in the recently announced plans for a $30 million, 70,000-square-foot center dedicated to healthcare education. This facility will enable CCM to expand its healthcare programs to address the increasing medical demands within Morris County.
ROI-NJ has previously acknowledged Iacono for his exceptional achievements, extending beyond his inclusion in the Influencers Power List – Higher Education. President Iacono has received recognition in various categories from the publication, including Higher Education Top 25 Most Influential Presidents (2022), Influencers: Manufacturing (2022), and Influencers Higher Education Community Colleges (2021).
Iacono expressed his gratitude, saying, “It is a true honor to be recognized by ROI-NJ as a distinguished leader in higher education within the state. To be featured on a list alongside exceptionally talented and respected individuals, all of whom have made significant contributions to student success, is a humbling experience. At CCM, we take great pride in the community partnerships we continually cultivate, enabling us to fulfill our mission of empowering individuals to achieve their aspirations.”
Under Iacono’s leadership, CCM has garnered additional accolades, including being ranked as the Best Community College in New Jersey by Best Accredited Colleges. Intelligent Magazine has also included the college in its list of the Top 5 Best Community Colleges in the state, as well as the Best for Transfer Students in the state. Moreover, CCM received the Good Neighbor Award from New Jersey Business Magazine for its Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Center, solidifying its status as a leader in preparing students for successful careers.
CCM offers an array of programs, boasting more than 100 options, including associate degree programs and a wide selection of industry-recognized certificate and workforce development programs. The college’s Center for Workforce Development plays a crucial role in supplying a highly educated and skilled workforce for regional employment while providing customized training for individuals and local businesses. For additional information about the college, click here.
The. U-Turn sign that was placed at Route 46 East at Beverwyck Road
PARSIPPANY – In November, the NJ Department of Transportation made a controversial move by installing a No U-Turn sign at the intersection of Route 46 East and Beverwyck Road. This decision was attributed to preparations for upcoming construction in the area.
The installation raised questions and concerns, particularly at a council meeting where former Council Vice President Michael dePierro expressed surprise about the sign’s placement. He sought clarification from Parsippany Business Administrator Jamie Cryan regarding whether the township had been informed about the new sign and whether a council ordinance was required for its installation.
On December 15, Parsippany Focus reached out to Business Administrator Jamie Cryan via email, inquiring about updates regarding the No U-Turn sign. The email highlighted concerns from local businesses affected by the sign, particularly Chick-fil-A, set to open in the second quarter of 2024. The sign was expected to have a significant impact, potentially diverting customers through nearby neighborhoods, and raising further concerns. Regrettably, there was no response received to these inquiries.
Local businesses, including Bank of America, Eccola, and Patel Brothers, experienced substantial disruptions due to the sign. Customers were forced to navigate down to the Holiday Inn to make a U-turn at the traffic signal before returning to Route 46 West to access these establishments.
Despite the controversies, Parsippany Focus noted a significant number of motorists blatantly ignoring the No U-Turn sign.
In a recent development, the NJ Department of Transportation has decided to remove the contentious sign, bringing an end to the ongoing dispute.
• John Chadwick, Planner, John T. Chadwick IV P.P.
• Chas Holloway, Engineer, GPI
• William Johnson, Esq. Johnson and Johnson
• Nora O. Jolie, Board Secretary
Agenda subject to change without notice Although the information on this site is believed to be reliable, online postings of meeting agendas are not considered official copies.
