PARSIPPANY— Parsippany locals enjoyed an engaging and personal afternoon with gubernatorial candidate Jon Bramnick during a meet and greet hosted by Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella at Elmas Turkish & Mediterranean Cuisine. The event, held on November 24th offered residents a chance to connect directly with Bramnick, known statewide for his personable demeanor, quick wit, and strong political leadership.

Jon Bramnick, often referred to as “New Jersey’s Funniest Lawyer” for his celebrated sense of humor, is a serious advocate for meaningful change in New Jersey. As a former Assembly Minority Leader, Bramnick has built a reputation for promoting bipartisanship and addressing the critical issues facing the state, including lowering property taxes, improving infrastructure, and fostering economic growth.

The afternoon at Elmas reflected Bramnick’s commitment to grassroots engagement. He greeted every single attendee, making a point to listen to their concerns and share his vision for a better New Jersey. His personal touch left a strong impression on the residents who attended.

“Jon Bramnick exemplifies what it means to be a leader who listens,” said Councilman Justin Musella, who hosted the event. “He greeted every single person in attendance, making everyone feel heard and valued. That kind of connection is exactly what New Jersey needs from its next governor.”

Elmas Turkish & Mediterranean Cuisine, located on Route 46, provided the perfect setting for the community gathering. The intimate atmosphere and warm hospitality matched Bramnick’s approachable style, encouraging open dialogue between the candidate and attendees.

During the event, Bramnick addressed a range of issues, from easing the tax burden on middle-class families to supporting small businesses and enhancing public safety. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining transparency and accountability in government, pledging to prioritize the needs of everyday New Jerseyans if elected.

The event showcased Bramnick’s ability to connect with voters on a personal level, reinforcing his campaign’s focus on building trust and tackling the challenges facing the Garden State.

For more information about Jon Bramnick’s campaign and upcoming events, visit bramnickforgovernor.com

PARSIPPANY — It’s heartening to see community members like Len Oppenberg of Victory Pest Solutions making a positive impact through their generous donation to the Parsippany Food Pantry, helping local families in need.

The Parsippany Food Pantry is vital in supporting local families in need, and contributions from individuals and businesses are essential to its mission.

The pantry is located at 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha, and operates Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Parsippany Food Pantry welcomes donations of non-perishable food items, household goods, and supermarket gift cards. Canned fruits, vegetables, meats, pasta, rice, and personal care products are always appreciated.

Donations can be dropped off during operating hours. For more information, contact the pantry at (973) 263-7160.

Every act of kindness, no matter how small, contributes to the well-being of our community. Thank you, Len, and all who support the Parsippany Food Pantry, for your generosity and commitment to helping others.

PARSIPPANY –- The Parsippany Police Athletic League (PAL) is proud to have partnered with the Center for Family Services for their annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, helping to ensure families in need can enjoy a warm meal this holiday season. This community-driven initiative was made even more impactful through the generosity of our exclusive partner, Chick-fil-A, who donated five pounds of food to the drive.

“Our mission at Chick-fil-A extends beyond serving great food; it’s about being a positive force in the communities we serve,” said Charlie Atie, owner and operator of Chick-fil-A. “We’re honored to partner with the Parsippany PAL to help support the Center for Family Services and bring joy to families during the Thanksgiving season.”

The Parsippany PAL is deeply committed to fostering community and giving back, especially during the holidays.

“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in this food drive,” said Tom Bushnauskas, Executive Director of the Parsippany PAL. “This collaboration underscores the power of community partnerships and the generosity of organizations like Chick-fil-A. Together, we can make a meaningful difference for families in need.”

For more information about the Parsippany PAL and how you can get involved in our community initiatives, click here.

About Parsippany PAL:
The Parsippany Police Athletic League is dedicated to providing youth programs, community events, and resources that strengthen the bonds between residents and public safety officials in Parsippany.

About Chick-fil-A Parsippany:
Chick-fil-A Parsippany, operated by Charlie Atie, is committed to serving the community with exceptional hospitality and actively supporting local causes.

Dear Editor:

Since being elected to the Parsippany Board of Education in 2014, I have been committed to advocating for our taxpayers and schoolchildren. Over the past year, this advocacy has led me to speak out at numerous town council meetings, raising concerns about Mayor James Barberio’s unfunded residential development PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) programs that I believe are putting our town in financial jeopardy.

Every time I speak, I start with a necessary disclaimer:

“The following statements are made in my capacity as a private citizen, not as a member of the Board of Education. These statements do not represent the Board or its members and solely reflect my personal opinions.”

This disclaimer is not a choice; it is a legal and ethical requirement under the School Ethics Act (N.J.S.A. 18A:12-21 et seq.).

But instead of engaging with the issues at hand, Mayor Barberio loves to mock this ethical practice, often quipping that he is “a mayor 24/7” and does not need to bother with disclaimers. It’s a clever little distraction that lets him avoid addressing legitimate questions about his controversial policies—questions about unfunded residential PILOT programs, Board of Education audits, and other hot-button issues.

This isn’t just a problem for me. Anyone who dares to question the mayor or voice an opinion he doesn’t like is met with disdain, ridicule, and a seat on his “enemies list.” Instead of responding with facts or accountability, he resorts to insults and theatrics, treating taxpayers who disagree with him as nuisances rather than as the people he is supposed to serve.

It is hard not to laugh at the irony of hearing the word ethics in the same sentence as “Mayor” lately, but the joke isn’t funny when you consider the damage his policies—and his divisive leadership style—are doing to our community. While he is busy making snide remarks, the rest of us are left picking up the pieces of a town burdened by his unfunded programs and lack of transparency.

Parsippany deserves better. We need leaders who answer tough questions, respect dissenting voices, and work to bring people together instead of tearing them down. Until then, I will keep showing up, making my disclaimers, and fighting for the taxpayers and children of this town—whether the mayor likes it or not.

In service to Parsippany,
Tim Berrios

The statements are made in my capacity as a private citizen, not as a member of the Board of Education. These statements do not represent the Board or its members and solely reflect my personal opinions.

PARSIPPANY – This December, Liquid Church is calling on New Jersey residents to make a global impact by participating in a powerful mission to fight hunger. The church is hosting a massive meal-packing event on Friday, December 6th, and Saturday, December 7th, to pack over ONE MILLION MEALS in just one weekend.

The event, organized in partnership with Rise Against Hunger, will take place at seven locations across New Jersey, including Morris, Mercer, Middlesex, Union, and Somerset counties. Locally, residents can join the outreach at 299 Webro Rd, Parsippany-Troy Hills, on Saturday, December 7th, starting at 10:00 a.m.

The meals prepared during this event will be sent to families suffering from chronic malnutrition in Zambia and other developing nations, providing critical nourishment to those in need. With the ambitious target of reaching over one million meals, Liquid Church is seeking 6,000 volunteers to make this vision a reality.

“This is more than just a meal-packing event,” said a representative from Liquid Church. “It’s an opportunity to come together as a community, give back, and make a tangible difference for families around the world during the Christmas season.”

The event is open to everyone and is family-friendly, making it a perfect way for people of all ages to serve together during the holidays. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their families, friends, or coworkers to share in the experience of giving back.

Participants can register online by clicking here to secure their spot.

Join Liquid Church in spreading hope and love this holiday season by being part of this life-changing outreach. With your help, this extraordinary mission to fight global hunger can become a reality.

MORRIS COUNTY — Mikie Sherrill — a former U.S. Navy helicopter aircraft commander, former federal prosecutor, U.S. Congresswoman, and mom of four — launched her campaign for governor, on a mission to get big things done for New Jersey. In her announcement video, Mikie shares how she will bring new leadership and a fresh perspective to New Jersey to build more housing, grow the economy, lower costs for families, and defend our freedoms. 

On Tuesday, she will hit the road to hear from New Jerseyans about the issues that matter most and what they want for our future. Her first stop will be Eva’s Village in Paterson to visit with New Jerseyans in need along with Mayor Andre Sayegh. Then, Mikie will meet with LiUNA members working at the Rutgers Cancer Institute construction project in New Brunswick. Next, she will speak with patients and providers at the Visiting Nurses Association’s (VNA) Red Bank Community Health Center. Finally, Tuesday’s tour will end in Atlantic City with the New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association — the state’s largest firefighters union.

Here is the script: 

We’ve been through a lot these past couple of years. 

There’ve been crises in this country, all over the world, and here in New Jersey.

And after this election, we know people are more divided than ever on how to move forward.

I’m Mikie Sherrill.

As a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and a former Navy helicopter aircraft commander, here’s something I learned early on:

In a crisis, the worst thing you can do is freeze. 

You have to choose to lead, to follow, or get out of the way.

So we can either stand aside, or we can get to work on New Jersey’s future.

And I know which one I pick. In New Jersey, we don’t whine, we work.

Every time I pass that bridge in Trenton and see the sign, “Trenton Makes, The World Takes” — I think, “Hell yeah, that’s New Jersey.”

This is the state, more than any other, that guaranteed our freedom as we fought for independence.

This is the state that built this nation. And while we were at it, we even invented the light bulb.

We’ve always been unafraid to do the big things — because we’re inventors and innovators and builders. 

And we work with our minds and our hands.

So let’s be the state that builds more housing, let’s fix the economy, let’s make life more affordable for hardworking New Jerseyans, from health care to groceries to childcare.

These challenges aren’t new and it’s time to confront them head on.

We can also be the state that sets the gold standard for protecting rights and freedoms, and we know they’ll be under attack from Donald Trump’s Washington.

Because in New Jersey, we love our country, we’re proud of our state, and we value our freedoms.

We’ll defend them with everything we’ve got.

In the Navy, I was on a mission to protect our country. 

Now, I’m announcing my candidacy for governor, on a mission to get things done for New Jersey.

This will be a campaign we build together because we all have a place and a say in New Jersey’s future.

And I’ve met so many people who believe as deeply as I do in the promise of our state. And I’m asking you to join us.

So New Jersey, let’s build something.

Mikie Sherrill is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and a former helicopter aircraft commander who served in the Navy for nearly 10 years. She worked as an Assistant U.S. Attorney to keep communities safe and get illegal guns off our streets. In her first-ever run for office, she led a grassroots movement and was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2018. Her campaign — where she drove an entrenched Republican incumbent out of the race — marked the biggest swing from red to blue in the country that year. 

As a mother of four, Mikie is a strong voice in Congress for New Jersey families. Mikie is working hard to bring down costs — whether it’s grocery prices, child care, or Trump’s SALT cap that punished New Jerseyans. After constant roadblocks from the Christie and Trump administrations, Mikie helped deliver New Jersey’s fair share of federal funding on the Gateway Tunnel Project — the single-largest infrastructure project in American history, which will create good-paying union jobs and reduce commute times. She is fighting for reproductive freedom, defending abortion rights, as well as access to contraception and IVF. She sits on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party. 

In 2023, Mikie was named the most effective New Jersey House lawmaker by the nonpartisan Center for Effective Lawmaking for her years of work delivering for Garden State residents. 

Mikie and her husband Jason, a fellow Naval Academy graduate, live in Montclair, and have four children. Her eldest daughter is currently serving in the U.S. Navy, following in her parents’ path of service. Mikie holds a Bachelor’s degree from the U.S. Naval Academy, a Master’s degree in Global History from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a law degree from Georgetown University. 

PARSIPPANY — Looking to add a furry friend to your family? The Parsippany Animal Shelter is now accepting applications for five adorable puppies: Sloane, Auggie, Ruthie, Kenzie, and Holden.

Born on September 16th, these sweet pups will be ready to join their forever homes next week. While in foster care, they have received plenty of socialization, making them well-prepared for family life. When fully grown, they are expected to weigh between 40-50 pounds.

If you’re interested in giving one of these pups a loving home, please submit an adoption application by clicking here. Suitable applicants will be contacted promptly to schedule a meet-and-greet.

Don’t miss your chance to welcome one of these lovable companions into your life!

PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, September 22, 2024, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge took part in the annual Vet Fest, lending their support to honor and assist veterans. Volunteers from the lodge helped with the event setup and proudly presented a generous $4,000 donation to Operation Chill Out, an organization dedicated to aiding homeless veterans.

Operation Chill Out’s mission focuses on providing essential services, including housing assistance and winter clothing, to ensure no veteran is left without the support they need.

A heartfelt thank you to the Elks members and all participants who made this event possible, demonstrating true community spirit and support for our veterans.

PARSIPPANY — Asian Wok, located at 184 Parsippany Road, officially opened its doors, marking the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local officials and community members. The restaurant aims to offer a diverse array of Asian cuisine including various dishes from the Chinese cuisine for the Parsippany community.

Owner Nancy Yeung expressed her enthusiasm about bringing authentic Asian flavors to the area. “We are thrilled to open our doors in Parsippany and welcome everyone to experience our take on authentic Asian cuisine,” said Yeung. “It’s been our dream to create a place where families and friends can enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes together.”

The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured remarks from Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio and Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill. Cahill praised the new establishment, stating, “Asian Wok is exactly the type of diverse, quality business we want to see flourish here in Parsippany. Nancy Yeung’s commitment to excellence and her passion for creating a welcoming atmosphere are evident, and I’m confident this restaurant will quickly become a community favorite.”

Asian Wok’s menu boasts a variety of dishes designed to cater to a wide range of palates. Signature offerings include General Tso’s Chicken, Orange Chicken, and their signature shrimp. The restaurant also accommodates various dietary preferences, providing vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-sodium options.

The establishment’s contemporary design and inviting ambiance create a comfortable dining experience for patrons. The interior features modern décor with traditional Asian elements, aiming to provide a warm and welcoming environment for both casual diners and those celebrating special occasions.

In addition to dine-in services, Asian Wok offers takeout options for customers seeking the convenience of enjoying their meals at home. Orders can be placed by calling (973) 877-8269 or through the restaurant’s website by clicking here. The website provides an easy-to-navigate platform where customers can view the full menu, check operating hours, and find contact information.

Asian Wok operates Monday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The restaurant is committed to providing exceptional service and high-quality cuisine to the Parsippany community.

As the ribbon was cut, applause filled the air, signaling the official opening of the restaurant. Asian Wok is now open daily for lunch and dinner, with both dine-in and takeout options available.

MORRIS COUNTY — The shadow chief executive officer of National Realty Investment Advisors LLC (NRIA) was sentenced to 144 months in prison for orchestrating a scheme to defraud more than 2,000 investors in a $658 million Ponzi scheme and conspiring to evade millions of dollars in tax liabilities, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger confirmed. (Click here to read the complaint)

Thomas Nicholas Salzano, aka “Nicholas Salzano,” 66, of Secaucus, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Evelyn Padin to securities fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and conspiracy to defraud the United States. Salzano admitted he made numerous misrepresentations to investors while he secretly ran NRIA behind the scenes. He admitted to misappropriating millions of dollars from investors to enrich himself and his family and friends. Salzano also admitted to misappropriating millions of dollars from investors to enrich himself and his family and friends and failing to report and pay taxes on those misappropriated funds. Judge Padin imposed the sentence in Newark federal court.

“For years, Salzano, operating from the shadows to conceal his prior history of fraud,  told lie after lie to investors, continuously deceived them, and operated his business as a Ponzi scheme, through which he stole money from thousands of investors to support his lavish lifestyle. His greed and flagrant disregard for the law caused staggering losses of over $650 million. This office will continue to prioritize prosecuting individuals, like Salzano, who engage in rampant fraud to ensure they are held accountable with long jail sentences and are ordered to make their victims whole,” said U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger.

“Salzano trampled on the trust that his clients placed in him to invest their money prudently but instead he stole their investments for his self-enrichment through his atrocious scheme which resulted in the theft of over $650 million,” said Harry Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office. “Today’s sentencing of Salzano should send a message to others who choose to prey on innocent victims through similar investment fraud schemes that IRS – Criminal Investigation and our law enforcement partners are committed to pursuing justice for all Americans that are victimized by these schemes. Salzano’s clients were not the only victims of this scheme, every American taxpayer was also victimized by Salzano when he failed to pay tens of millions of dollars in taxes which would have funded local schools, infrastructure projects, and social programs for those in need.”

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

From February 2018 through January 2022, Salzano and others defrauded investors and potential investors of NRIA Partners Portfolio Fund I LLC (the “Fund”), a real estate fund operated by NRIA, of $650 million through lies, deception, misleading statements, and material omissions. These included the financial position of NRIA, the manner in which the defendants and their conspirators used Fund investor money, Salzano’s managerial role at NRIA, and his history of fraud.

Salzano and his conspirators executed their scheme through an aggressive multiyear, nationwide marketing campaign that involved thousands of emails to investors; advertisements on billboards, television, and radio; and meetings and presentations to investors. Salzano led and directed the marketing campaign, which employed deception, material misrepresentations and omissions, and falsified documents to manipulate investors, which were intended to mislead Fund investors into believing that NRIA was a solvent business that generated significant profits. In reality, NRIA generated little to no profits and operated as a Ponzi scheme, which was kept afloat by new investors. Despite investing almost none of his capital into the business, Salzano misappropriated millions of dollars of investor money to support his lavish lifestyle, including expensive dinners, extravagant birthday parties, and payments to family and associates who did not work at NRIA.

Salzano concealed his true managerial role at NRIA in an effort to avoid scrutiny from investors of his history of fraud at a large telecommunications company. In addition to defrauding investors, Salzano orchestrated a separate, but related, conspiracy to avoid paying taxes on his misappropriated funds.

In addition to the prison term, Judge Padin sentenced Salzano to three years of supervised release. As part of his plea agreement, Salzano has agreed to a forfeiture money judgment of $8.52 million, full restitution of $507.4 million to the victims of his offenses, and has agreed to pay $6.46 million to the IRS.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Chavis in Boston; and special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado in Newark, with the investigation, with assistance from FBI Headquarters Criminal Investigative Division.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan Fayer, Lauren E. Repole, and John Mezzanotte, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division, and Trial Attorney Samuel Bean of the U.S. Justice Department’s Tax Division.