PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council held its meeting on Tuesday, October 8, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting occurred in the Council Chambers at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard within the Parsippany Municipal Building.
Any individual who is qualified as a disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids, such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder, for the meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request an auxiliary aid.
Mayor James Barberio Council President Paul Carifi, Jr. Council Vice President Frank Neglia Councilman Justin Musella Councilman Matt McGrath Councilwoman Judy Hernandez
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council has scheduled a meeting for Tuesday, October 22, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will occur in the Council Chambers at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard within the Parsippany Municipal Building.
Formal action may or may not be taken.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for the meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request an auxiliary aid.
Mayor James Barberio Council President Paul Carifi, Jr. Council Vice President Frank Neglia Councilman Justin Musella Councilman Matt McGrath Councilwoman Judy Hernandez
MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) was recently honored with the “Legislator of the Year Award” by the Constitutional Officers Association of New Jersey on October 9, 2024.
“I am extremely honored and grateful to the Constitutional Officers Association of New Jersey for this prestigious award,” said Sen. Pennacchio. “From county clerks and registers of deeds and mortgages to sheriffs and surrogates, our constitutional officers provide essential, invaluable services to the people of New Jersey and serve the Garden State with honor and dignity.”
The Constitutional Officers Association of New Jersey is a group of elected county sheriffs, clerks, surrogates, and registers of deeds and mortgages across the State. They present the Legislator of the Year Award to lawmakers who show a commitment to improving the effectiveness of public service in New Jersey.
“It was my honor to award Senator Pennacchio with Legislator of the Year. Senator Pennacchio has been a long-time friend to the Constitutional Officers by creating commonsense legislation that better enables us to fulfill our obligations to the communities we serve,” said Morris County Surrogate Heather J. Darling, Esq.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners joined the Morris County Park Commission and local leaders at Lewis Morris County Park yesterday to dedicate two new cricket fields in honor of Russell W. Myers, the first Director of the Morris County Park Commission.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a significant milestone in accommodating the growing popularity of cricket within the county. Among those joining the event were State Senator Joe Pennachio (Morris-26), State Senator Anthony Bucco (Morris-25), Mayor James Barberio of Parsippany-Troy Hills, Sheriff James M. Gannon, and representatives of the New Jersey Softball Cricket League. Cricket players from the league, including members of Teams Titans XL and Parsippany Sports Cricket XL, showcased their skills at the event.
“I thank my fellow Commissioners for supporting this project, which started in 2023 when the board passed a resolution to fund the fields,” said Commissioner John Krickus, who served as Commissioner Director when planning for the fields began.
The project’s roots go back several years, when the growing Indian American community in Parsippany Township began searching for more places to play cricket, a popular sport in Britain, India, and many other places around the world. Sen. Pennacchio and Mayor Barberio took up the search, approaching Executive Director Dave Helmer of the Park Commission, which has been accommodating cricket team games for years on picnic grounds.
The Morris County Board of County Commissioners stepped in last year and agreed to finance the development of two cricket fields at Lewis Morris Park when the Park Commission identified an open field area.
“These new cricket fields reflect our commitment to providing a myriad of recreational opportunities for all Morris County residents,” said Commissioner Doug Cabana, liaison to the Morris County Park Commission.
The dedication honored the late Russell W. Myers, who served as Director of the Morris County Park Commission from 1957 to 1983. Under his leadership, the park system expanded dramatically, and his legacy continues to shape Morris County’s recreational spaces today.
The newly developed cricket grounds, located in the Russell W. Myers Recreation Area, will serve as a dedicated space for cricket beginning in spring 2025. Cricketers will need to schedule the use of the fields through the Park Commission.
But the county commissioners, park commissioners, senators, and other dignitaries gave the fields an unofficial test yesterday, taking turns tossing and batting a few cricket balls with various players who attended to dedication.
“Developing plans for this site and learning more about the sport of cricket by collaborating with Amin Khatri, Trustee of the New Jersey Soft Ball Cricket League, was a rewarding experience. We’re thrilled to provide a space where our local teams can play and grow,” said Helmer, who emphasized the teamwork involved in the project.
The two fields are tailored for the softball version of cricket. The site, previously used for overflow parking, is located close to restroom facilities in the park and has ample parking on-site and nearby.
“We ask our immigrant friends to assimilate, but it’s a two-way street. Your culture, traditions, and recreation enrich the American experience. Enjoy these wonderful fields that have been created,” said Senator Pennachio, who is a first-generation Italian American. “Leaders of the Parsippany Indian community told me that having a cricket field was important to them. If it was important to them, it became important to me. Credit goes to Commissioner Krickus and the County Commissioners for making this happen.”
“I want to thank Jigar Shah, Parsippany’s liaison to the Indian community, and I want to thank Commissioner Krickus and the County Commissioners. In Parsippany, we have the largest Indian population in the county and now players from all municipalities will have a place to play. This field is going to be amazing. The county kept their promise to get it done, and they got it done,” said Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio.
The ribbon-cutting was also attended by Morris County Commissioner Director Christine Myers, Deputy Commissioner Stephen Shaw, Commissioner Deborah Smith, Park Commission President Stuart Lasser, Betty Cass-Schmidt, and Richard Seabury III, who are also on the Park Commission.
The $225,140 construction contract awarded to Aspen Landscaping of Bridgewater, included grading and shaping approximately four acres, installation of a cricket pitch, spreading topsoil, fine grading, hydro seeding, and watering. Full play is expected by spring 2025.
Lewis Morris County Park, established in 1958 as the county’s first park, has grown from 350 acres to 2,213 acres, making it the second-largest park in the Morris County system.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Police Athletic League (PAL) is thrilled to announce its selection as the Stop & Shop’s Community Bag Program beneficiary for October. This initiative is designed to make it easy for shoppers to give back to their local communities while supporting environmental sustainability.
Throughout October, every $2.50 reusable Community Bag purchased at the Stop & Shop at 245 Littleton Road will result in a $1 donation to Parsippany PAL. These funds will help support our programs, which aim to foster positive community engagement and provide safe recreational activities for youth in the Parsippany area.
“We’re excited to be part of this wonderful program, which not only helps the environment but also directly supports the work we do at Parsippany PAL,” said Thomas Bushnauskas, Executive Director of Parsippany PAL. “This is a simple and impactful way for the community to get involved and support our mission.”
The Community Bag Program offers an excellent opportunity for PAL supporters to make a difference. We encourage everyone to spread the word to family, friends, and neighbors. The more bags purchased, the greater the impact on our programs and the youth we serve.
For more information about the Community Bag Program click here.
About Parsippany PAL
The Parsippany Police Athletic League provides a wide range of youth-oriented programs that promote physical fitness, teamwork, and community spirit. The goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for young people to learn, grow, and thrive.
To balance the need for consumer protection and crypto innovation, the state of New Jersey has introduced two bills that are similar to one another for consideration. Bill S3694 and A4880 are centered around the ban on cryptocurrency ATMs across the state due to growing concerns about fraudulent activities aimed at leveraging the evolving technologies within this industry.
Although this might sound like a blow to the crypto industry, ATMs constitute a fraction of the vast opportunities available for enthusiasts and investors looking to spend their digital assets. For example, the availability of online industries like e-commerce platforms, software companies, and gaming platforms that accept crypto payments has grown enormously.
iGaming sites have particularly embraced crypto technology. For those who prefer to gamble at a crypto casino online, these sites offer a variety of perks that traditional online casinos simply can’t match. These include benefits like registrations that don’t require KYC checks, a wider array of games, instant withdrawals, and even anonymous play — traits that even the most advanced online casinos in New Jersey can’t offer. That’s certainly saying something since NJ is one of the few states that offer a legal and thriving iGaming sector.
With the crypto industry now doing well across a multitude of facets, the resilience of crypto in New Jersey and beyond remains likely even if these bills are approved. It will, of course, impact the convenience of withdrawing and depositing funds to crypto wallets for day-to-day purposes. However, there will still be plenty of online ways to use, trade, and pay with cryptocurrencies even with no ATMs around.
As most Bitcoin ATMs have been a target for fraudsters, state authorities have deemed it necessary to take into consideration their potential effect on the general population. For example, the Federal Trade Commission has reported a surge in scams totaling over $110 million in 2023 alone and $65 million in only the first half of 2024, with a median loss of $10,000 among the elderly aged 60 and above.
These concerning statistics are one of the core reasons why this legislation has been proposed, making any activities linked to cryptocurrency ATMs illegal. This encompasses elements such as banning the ownership, control, installation, and sale of ATM machines supporting digital assets. These two identical bills propose that enforcement of the stipulated guidelines take place by expanding the scope and legal powers of the Consumer Fraud Act.
To put this into perspective, violators would be liable for penalties in the form of fines reaching up to $10,000 for first offenses and $20,000 for any subsequent violations. Additionally, state authorities will have the legal power to issue cease-and-desist orders as well as punitive damages to victims.
The regulations entailed by the bills clarify its intention of protecting consumers from any potential dangers related to unregulated crypto ATMs that contribute to significant financial losses. Be that as it may, it could be harder for crypto enthusiasts who are tech-savvy and aware of these dangers to use their digital assets as conveniently as they used to.
Fortunately, the proposed ban on these ATMs doesn’t completely eliminate the innovation of the decentralized finance scene. Private online transactions and crypto gift cards are still some of the primary ways that digital assets can be spent in New Jersey. For Jersey crypto holders, the online electronics scene also offers another great option.
Secure methods such as digital wallets, peer-to-peer platforms, and crypto exchanges offer a wide variety of ways to transact using decentralized finance instruments without the potential risk of illegitimate ATMs. At the same time, these methods open up broader opportunities to explore other aspects, like NFT marketplaces for investment purposes or merely for entertainment.
These options also work in tandem with the proposed bills since they allow consumers to have access to customer support channels alongside the robust security measures, set as industry standards for these service providers. Ultimately, the use of mainstream crypto platforms minimizes the risk of fraudulent activity and the burden on state agencies tasked to oversee them.
On the other hand, mainstream methods also allow users to have better control over their transactions, empowering them to make informed decisions in a secure environment. As the digital asset field continues to grow and evolve, newer technologies continue making mainstream crypto options more secure and reliable for better consumer protection.
Although there haven’t been significant advancements in the legislative process of enacting these bills, the discussion has opened varying perspectives on the role of decentralized finance and the technologies supporting it. The most important point raised is the need for a delicate balance between consumer protection and the fast-growing innovation of the financial sector.
Advocates supporting the ban of crypto ATMs have applauded the strides taken by state authorities to reduce the likelihood of fraudulent activity perpetrated toward vulnerable persons. Some skeptics aren’t sold on the efficacy of these bills and have raised concerns over the limitations of cryptocurrencies as an important financial tool.
Nevertheless, the proposed legislation shows the increasing concern for better security measures while ensuring that the availability of cryptocurrencies at a broader scale remains unhindered. As discussions continue, state authorities will be under the microscope on the final approach they decide to implement in response to this issue.
PARSIPPANY — On October 14th, Columbus Day, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio was joined by the Morris County Sons of Italy Chapter 2561 for a special Italian Flag Raising Ceremony at Town Hall.
Mayor Barberio, along with Sons of Italy President Joe Jannerone and former Council President and Sons of Italy member Mike dePierro, raised the Italian flag following the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the American flag. The brief but meaningful ceremony concluded with remarks from both Mike dePierro and Mayor Barberio.
“We’ve held the Italian Flag Raising Ceremony since 2012,” said Mayor Barberio. “I am truly proud to be an Italian-American, and I reflect on the tremendous contributions and achievements made by Italians. It’s important to remember where you came from as you navigate through life.”
PARSIPPANY — The Lake Hiawatha School PTA Tricky Tray, themed “Fall in Luck”, is set to be a fun-filled evening on Thursday, November 21, at the Parsippany PAL, located at 33 Baldwin Road. The doors will open at 5:30 p.m., with the drawings starting promptly at 7:00 p.m. This event is for adults only—no one under the age of 18 will be admitted.
Attendees will have hundreds of opportunities to win exciting prizes, such as gift cards, lotto tickets, and other special gifts. The prizes are divided into two tiers: Level 1 prizes range from $50 to $150, while Level 2 prizes have values of $150 or more. In addition to the prize drawings, guests can participate in fun Games of Chance, such as the Wine Pull and Lucky Lunch Bags. Guests are encouraged to bring their own beverages and snacks to enjoy during the evening.
Admission & Ticket Packages
Tickets are priced at $30 for advance purchase and include admission, 1 sheet of Tier 1 tickets, a door prize ticket, and seating. If tickets are still available on the day of the event, they will be sold at the door for $35. For those looking to increase their chances of winning, two additional ticket packages are available as add-ons:
Value Pack B ($40): Includes 2 sheets of Tier 1 tickets and 5 Tier 2/Grand Games tickets, a $60 value.
Super Value Pack C ($100): Includes 4 sheets of Tier 1 tickets and 15 Tier 2/Grand Games tickets, a $140 value.
Payment & Preorders
Payments can be made by mailing a check to the LHS PTA at 1 Lincoln Avenue, Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034, or online through this link. Preordered packages will only be handed out to the person who registered, ensuring a smooth process on event night.
Guests will also have the option to preorder food from Parsippany’s Best, with details to follow. This event promises to be a wonderful evening of fun, prizes, and community, so get your tickets early before they sell out!
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department is currently seeking to recruit entry-level police officers to join their dedicated team. Under the leadership of Chief of Police Richard Pantina, this initiative aims to attract qualified candidates who are committed to serving the community and ensuring public safety.
To be eligible, applicants must meet specific criteria, including being at least 18 years old but no older than 35 at the time of hiring. A valid New Jersey driver’s license and a minimum of a high school diploma or GED are required. Additionally, candidates must be U.S. citizens residing in Morris County, New Jersey.
The rigorous selection process ensures only the most qualified individuals move forward. It includes a thorough background investigation, an oral interview, and a medical exam that includes both a psychological evaluation and drug screening.
The department is offering prospective applicants the opportunity to become part of an esteemed force dedicated to maintaining law and order in the Parsippany-Troy Hills community. The application deadline is October 25, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply through policeapp.com.
For additional information or questions regarding the position, applicants can reach out via email to hiring@parpolice.com.
PARSIPPANY — This beautifully renovated suburban oasis, built in 1964, is perfectly situated on a 0.35-acre lot and boasts everything a dream home could offer. With 4 spacious bedrooms and 3 full modern bathrooms, including a large master bedroom and ensuite bathroom, this home provides ample space for comfortable living.
Step inside to a large, inviting kitchen adorned with sleek quartz countertops and a generous island, designed for both culinary adventures and casual gatherings. The open-concept design ensures a seamless flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas, perfect for entertaining or everyday life.
On the ground level, you’ll find a cozy family room with direct access to the yard, providing the ideal spot for relaxation. The home also features a 2-car garage and an expansive driveway that accommodates up to five additional vehicles, offering plenty of parking for family and guests.
Enjoy year-round comfort with central air conditioning and hot forced air heating. Located in a highly desirable town, this property combines the peace and tranquility of suburban living with convenient access to local amenities, top-rated schools, and parks, making it the perfect place to call home.
Seller represented by:Oscar Nunez with Lifestyle International Realty; Buyer represented by:Adam Aguanno with Realty Executives Platinum.
PARSIPPANY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally confirmed that a member of the support staff team, Michael Sanford, has been hired as a Detective for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
A swearing-in ceremony was held on Monday, October 7.
Detective Sanford will be assigned to the Professional Standards, Insurance Fraud, and Financial Crimes Units within the Specialized Crimes Division. He will attend the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy in the winter.
Detective Sanford initially joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in April 2023 as a support staff member, assisting detectives in the Financial Crimes and Professional Standards Units with investigations, preparing case files, drafting correspondence for municipal police departments, and ensuring accurate case dispositions.
He previously worked as a superintendent helper, Sarbanes-Oxley audit intern, tax preparer, and shift supervisor. Detective Sanford has also served as captain of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Fire District #6 since 2016.
Detective Sanford graduated from Montclair State University with a Bachelor of Sciences degree in Accounting and from the County College of Morris with an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration. Sanford is also a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “I am proud to promote a hard-working member of our team to an investigative role.”
MORRIS COUNTY – The community is invited to join local leaders and officials for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony at Lewis Morris County Park on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at 4:30 p.m., celebrating the opening of two new recreational cricket fields. These fields, designed to accommodate a softball-style version of cricket, will be part of the newly named Russell W. Myers Recreation Area, dedicated in honor of Russ Myers for his contributions to the local parks system.
Key figures expected to attend the dedication include State Senator Joe Pennachio, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, members of the Morris County Park Commissioners, and Executive Director of the Morris County Park Commission (MCPC) Dave Helmer. Also in attendance will be community members involved in the initiative, including a trustee from the NJ Softball Cricket League, as well as a possible youth cricket group eager to showcase the new facilities.
This event will take place at Lewis Morris County Park, located at 270 Mendham Road, Morristown. Attendees can follow the park entrance off Doe Meadow Road and continue onto Sunrise Lake Road, where parking will be available near the cricket fields. The ceremony is expected to last approximately one hour.
This dedication marks a significant addition to the recreational offerings in Morris County, providing local residents and cricket enthusiasts a new space to enjoy the popular sport.
PARSIPPANY – Salad House, a rapidly expanding fast-casual franchise known for its health-focused menu of fresh, made-to-order chopped salads, has opened its newest location at 804 Route 46 in Parsippany. The new franchise, which marks the 18th location since the brand’s inception in 2011, continues Salad House’s growth across New Jersey and the greater northeast.
Joey Cioffi, founder and CEO of Salad House, expressed his excitement for the new Parsippany opening. “Salad House has become known for its menu versatility and great service that translates to many different markets,” Cioffi said. “We’re looking forward to serving our signature salads and sandwiches to our guests in Parsippany and becoming part of the fabric of this community in the years ahead.”
Nestled in the bustling commercial corridor along Route 46, the new Salad House is conveniently located near retailers, office buildings, and residential areas, making it an ideal spot for quick lunches, family dinners, or a healthy meal on the go. The Parsippany location, owned by franchise partners Fatih Karaca and Erkan Okyar, is set to serve a wide range of fresh, customizable salads, wraps, sandwiches, and smoothies that cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, paleo, keto, and gluten-free.
The Salad House menu features popular items like the Fiesta CHX Salad and the Crispy Mutha Clucka Wrap, with over 90 fresh ingredients to choose from, ensuring there is something for everyone. In addition to dine-in and take-out options, Salad House offers catering services with platters and customizable salad options, starting at $10 per person. The brand’s mobile app also enhances the guest experience with an extensive rewards program.
To celebrate the opening, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, along with Councilman Justin Musella, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce members, including Board Member Nicolas Limanov, welcomed Salad House with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, October 11. Mayor Barberio praised the new addition, stating, “Welcome to Parsippany! I think you will do very well here, your menu is great, the food is delicious and healthy, and you are all very welcoming. I wish you much success.”
Frank Cahill, Chairman Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development stated “Congratulations to Salad House on the grand opening in Parsippany! Wishing you great success as you bring fresh, delicious, and healthy meal options to our community. Welcome and best of luck! #PRIDEINPARSIPPANY.”
Salad House is poised for further expansion, with plans to open more locations in New Jersey and beyond, including Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New York, Maryland, Florida, and Virginia. The brand’s recent expansion into Brooklyn, NY, and its newly signed franchise agreements, reflect its commitment to bringing fresh, healthy dining options to communities across the East Coast.
PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is once again gearing up to host its highly anticipated 28th Annual Wine Tasting event on Thursday, October 17, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Hanover Manor, located at 16 Eagle Rock Avenue, East Hanover. With a ticket price of $75 per person, this event promises an evening of fun, flavor, and philanthropy, offering a wide variety of wines, delicious food, and a chance to support a worthy cause.
Attendees, who must be 21 years or older, will indulge in a selection of fine wines provided by Joe Canal’s Discount Liquors. The event will also feature an assortment of hot and cold appetizers, buffet food stations, and dessert options, ensuring that guests have a delightful culinary experience to complement their wine selections. With its lively and elegant atmosphere, the wine tasting is a favorite among the local community, drawing wine enthusiasts and supporters of Kiwanis alike.
More than just a social gathering, the event serves as a crucial fundraiser for the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation. Proceeds will be directed toward supporting charitable organizations and community programs, including the Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter, a partner in this year’s event. Additionally, the local chapter of the Sons of Italy (2561) will also benefit from the event, underscoring the club’s commitment to improving the community through service and philanthropy.
“This wine tasting is more than just an opportunity to enjoy great wines and delicious food,” said Michael Mulhaul, a member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. “It’s a chance for the community to come together, support local charities, and make a difference in the lives of those in need.”
The event is made possible with the generous support of sponsors, including Unity Bank, AMP Performance Rehab, and Happy Daze Boutique. These local businesses have joined hands with Kiwanis to ensure that the evening is a success, both in terms of entertainment and the impact it has on the community.
Tickets can be purchased by visiting KiwanisWineTasting.com, and early booking is recommended as this event tends to sell out quickly.
For anyone looking to enjoy a wonderful evening of wine tasting while giving back to the community, the 28th Annual Wine Tasting event is not to be missed. It promises to be a memorable night filled with laughter, fine wines, and the spirit of giving that defines the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.
About the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany: The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, part of Kiwanis International, has been serving the local community since its inception. Dedicated to improving the lives of children and families, the club organizes a range of events and initiatives each year, all to make a positive impact.
PARSIPPANY — On September 22, 2024, members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks volunteered at the annual Vet Fest, assisting with setup and presenting a donation of $4,000 to Operation Chill Out, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping homeless veterans with housing and providing winter clothing.
MORRIS COUNTY – The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is hosting the grand opening of its new art gallery, designed to foster community relationships by creating a space for cultural exchange, dialogue, and collaboration among diverse members of the community.
The public is invited to an evening of art, culture, and community as Lakeland Hills YMCA unveils its inaugural exhibition featuring works from the design students of the Morris County Vocational School District on Wednesday, October 16, at 6:00 p.m. The YMCA is located at 100 Fanny Road in Mountain Lakes, at the intersection of Mountain Lakes, Parsippany, and Boonton. RSVPs are welcome by emailing Kelly Horvath at kellyh@lhymca.com or calling 973-507-7016.
This is an opportunity to meet the young design artists of Morris County Vocational-Technical High School located in Denville. In June, many of these artists painted a mural on an outdoor storage container used by the Y’s Summer Camp, transforming it into a colorful and eye-catching display.
Alejandro Martinez, Lakeland Hills’ President and CEO, stated, “If you are wondering about the purpose of an art gallery in a nonprofit organization and health and wellness facility, I’m happy to explain. It provides a space for community members to engage with visual arts, enriches the cultural landscape, and fosters a greater art appreciation. This will lead to increased community involvement and support for our mission.”
Martinez continued, “Our art gallery will host educational programs, workshops, and lectures, enhancing the educational offerings for our entire community. We will support local artists, organizations, and other nonprofits. These programs will cater to all age groups and provide learning opportunities in art history, appreciation, and creation. The only limit is one’s imagination!”
Lakeland Hills YMCA will rotate its art exhibitions quarterly and ask the community to nominate future works. Upcoming installations include area schools, senior art, art councils, organizations, art therapy students, and more. The gallery is not limited to specific types or methods.
Just as the artists and their families are invited to the grand opening on Wednesday, October 16, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., so is the public. Refreshments will be served.
Rosemary Linder Day, the YMCA’s Vice President of Marketing and Membership, remarked, “We are creating a welcoming environment and a gathering place for the community. It demonstrates a commitment to cultural and artistic values. Art is a powerful medium for raising awareness about social issues, highlighting important causes, and encouraging dialogue and action within the community.”
About Lakeland Hills Family YMCA
Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is dedicated to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our programs and services are designed to promote overall well-being and support individuals and families in achieving their fullest potential. No one serves the community as powerfully as the Y does every day.
PARSIPPANY — Link Logistics recently acquired the site of a vacant office building at Two Hilton Court in Parsippany, which is set to be redeveloped into a 123,000-square-foot warehouse. The property, previously occupied by Daiichi Sankyo, remained under lease until December 2022 despite the company relocating in 2016. Onyx Equities purchased the site in 2020, and it is now in the final stages of demolition, with the debris being cleared to make way for the new warehouse.
JLL’s brokerage team, representing the seller, handled the sale of the 10.41-acre property located just off Route 10, near Interstates 80 and 287. The location, within an economic development district in Morris County, attracted interest from the Blackstone affiliate due to its accessibility and prime location.
The transaction was led by JLL senior managing directors Marc Duval and Jose Cruz, along with Managing Director Jordan Avanzato and directors Nicholas Stefans and Jason Lundy, on behalf of 2 Hilton Court LLC.
“The industrial market in northern New Jersey has performed well despite challenges in recent years, and locations offering accessibility and labor remain top priorities for developers,” said Duval.
The sale comes four years after a joint venture, led by Onyx Equities, acquired the site from Mack-Cali Realty Corp as part of a larger 10-building, 1.5 million-square-foot office portfolio. The site, currently home to a vacant 186,020-square-foot office building, offers proximity to major highways and is within 60 miles of three international airports.
JLL noted during a previous offering that the seller was seeking amended site plan approval to redevelop the property as an industrial building, a key factor in the deal’s success, according to Avanzato.
Link Logistics is a major player in the industrial real estate sector, specializing in last-mile logistics properties throughout the United States. Founded by Blackstone in 2019, the company now manages a portfolio that spans over 533 million square feet of logistics space, including warehouses and business parks. They serve a wide range of customers, from e-commerce giants to local businesses, with a focus on providing strategically located facilities for efficient distribution.
One of the core aspects of Link Logistics’ operations is its focus on sustainability and using data-driven insights to optimize the supply chain. Their commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices has been a significant part of their growth strategy. They also emphasize creating spaces that cater to modern logistical needs, helping their customers move goods quickly and efficiently across key U.S. markets.
The company has over 1,200 employees and operates out of 50 offices across the U.S., continuing to expand its footprint in high-growth areas like Parsippany, where they have been involved in recent acquisitions and redevelopments.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council has scheduled a meeting for Tuesday, October 8, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will occur in the Council Chambers at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard within the Parsippany Municipal Building.
Formal action may or may not be taken.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for the meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request an auxiliary aid.
Mayor James Barberio Council President Paul Carifi, Jr. Council Vice President Frank Neglia Councilman Justin Musella Councilman Matt McGrath Councilwoman Judy Hernandez
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Investigations Robert McNally, and Chief Dean Adone of the Roxbury Township Police Department confirmed the sentencing of Nicholas Zirpoli, 36, of Lincoln Park. Zirpoli is the owner and operator of Plato’s Closet, a clothing retail store in Roxbury Township.
On May 13, 2024, Zirpoli pled guilty to ten counts of third-degree Invasion of Privacy and one count of third-degree Possession of Child Pornography. On October 4, 2024, the Honorable Stephen J. Taylor, P.J.S.C., imposed a sentence of three years of probation with 364 days in the Morris County Correctional Facility. Zirpoli is not to have any contact with the victims or their families and continue to undergo psychotherapy.
During the period of late 2022 to the beginning of 2023, Zirpoli used a device to video record juvenile and adult employees, 11 in total, utilizing the restroom at Plato’s Closet at separate times.
Prosecutor Carroll recognizes the Roxbury Township Police Department and Morris County Prosecutor’s Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, who worked jointly on this investigation.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Our Lady of Mercy Health Ministry is hosting the first of a three-part Eldercare Seminar Series on Thursday, October 10th, at 7:00 p.m. at the Parish Center. The seminar, titled “When is Assisted Living or Nursing Care Appropriate for My Loved Ones?” will provide essential guidance on managing the challenges of aging and recognizing when to consider additional care options for loved ones.
Kim Klapper of Graceful Aging Services will lead a discussion on strategies for aging with dignity and grace.
Barbara Freda of Genesis Healthcare will focus on identifying signs of dementia and determining the appropriate time to seek further assistance, particularly for individuals living with Alzheimer’s. Both experts will provide valuable information and resources to help seniors and caregivers make informed eldercare decisions.
The series will continue with additional sessions on November 14th and January 9th, addressing other important aspects of eldercare. Whether you’re a senior exploring your rights and options or a caregiver seeking advice, these seminars are designed to equip you with the knowledge needed to plan confidently for the future.
RSVP is encouraged. To reserve your spot, email office@ourladyofmercyparish or call Kathy at (973).428-4996.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights from professionals and prepare for future eldercare needs.
Our Lady of Mercy is located at 90 Whippany Road, Whippany.