PARSIPPANY — The Par-Troy Little League will again sponsor “Challenger Games” on Sunday, May 7, starting at 2:00 p.m. The games will be held at the Par-Troy Little League West Complex, 89 Elmwood Drive.
The first game starts at 2:00 p.m. when PTWLL “buddies” assist Challenger Players in their game.
At 4:00 p.m., PTWLL faces the Challengers in a special game with special rules for PTWLL players. So far, the Challengers are undefeated! Everyone is welcome to come and participate.
The Challenger League is a baseball league for disabled children established in 1986 by Williamsport Little League.
The Morris County Challenger Little League was established in 1999. The dedicated volunteers create a positive environment for the children who need this program. Most of the participants are from Morris County, and a few are from the neighboring counties.
The ages of participants are five years old to 21 years old. The 21-year-old must be attending a school to participate.
The Baseball schedule begins in the middle of April and ends at the end of June. The games are played in a different town every weekend.
PTWLL “buddies” can be players, siblings, parents, or guardians of nearly all ages. PTWLL participants have found the games to be very rewarding and fun. Everyone is welcome to come and participate.
For more information on Morris County Challenger Little League, click here.
PARSIPPANY — Work has started at the Former Kmart Building, Route 46, Parsippany. As reported in Parsippany Focus, the building will be subdivided into three retail units containing 25,623 square feet, 25,205 square feet, and 54,024 square feet.
The building has been vacant since the end of 2017, when over 200 Sears and Kmart locations closed.
HomeGoods and Marshalls are confirmed tenants for a section of the space, but no information is available about which retailers will occupy the remaining 54,024 square feet.
As detailed on January 6, 2020, Parsippany Master Plan, the owner had initially proposed to develop a total of 313 units, 63 of which will be affordable, in a new mixed-use building to replace a former K-Mart store.
Reprinted from Parsippany-Troy Hills Master Plan, dated January 6, 2020
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrolman Kenneth Hawthorne responded to a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Lake Shore Drive and North Beverwcyk Road on Wednesday, April 12, at approximately 9:15 p.m.
Mr. Dennis Burns, 62, was traveling east on Lake Shore Drive and collided with a vehicle driven by Mr. Jay Patel, 24, who was traveling north on North Beverwyck Road. Both drivers indicated they had a “green” light and collided.
A witness at the scene stated Mr. Patel had a “green” light and that Mr. Burns caused the crash for failure to observe a traffic device.
Mr. Burns was transported to St. Clares Hospital, Denville, by Rockaway Neck Volunteer First Aid.
Mr. Burns was driving a 2020 Hyundai Electra towed from the scene by Eagle Towing. Mr. Patel was driving a 2019 Hyundai Tucson and was towed by Eagle Towing.
At the time of this article, there were no summons issued.
PARSIPPANY — Chris Graham has been recognized for his dedication and hard work towards Little League Baseball and Softball. Receiving a “Certificate of Appreciation” is a wonderful way to acknowledge his contributions and show gratitude for his service. It’s always heartening to see individuals recognized for their efforts and commitment to positively impacting their community.
Par-Troy West Little League (PTWLL) is a non-profit IRS 501.C.3 organization established in 1952. The league is run by a Board of Directors, all volunteers. PTWLL receives no outside local, state, or federal financial aid to operate our program. All funds are received through donations, fundraisers, sponsors, and registration fees. All funds are used to maintain the fields and to pay for all services, insurance, utilities, equipment, and uniforms.
PTWLL is in full compliance with all Little League Rules and Regulations. PTWLL has an approved charter regularly approved by Little League Headquarters every season. Our approved By-Laws, which are quite similar to approved By-Laws of the past and those of other Little League organizations, have been approved by Little League International Headquarters in Williamsport, PA.
PARSIPPANY — Another office building in Parsippany has been demolished to make room for future development.
The bundle of rubble is the only remains of 1633 Littleton Road.
The building consisted of 57,722 square feet and was built in 1978. It was rated as a Class A Office Building.
Some of the beams remain standing.
The building has been vacant since Skanska USA moved to 389 Interpace Parkway in April 2014. The property was listed on plans to build multi-family apartment buildings on the adjacent property. At the hearing, it was discussed that the property of 1633 would be turned into recreation, but no plans have been submitted.
The building was recently demolished.The demolition of 1633 Littleton Road
According to the Master Plan, Mack-Cali (Block 202, Lots 3.12 and 3.20) is located at Two and Three Campus Drive. The owner of this property has proposed to develop a total of 410 units, 82 of which will be affordable housing, in two new multi-family apartment buildings: one to replace a vacant office building at Two Campus Drive and one to be constructed on vacant land at Three Campus Drive.
2 Campus Drive: Block 202, Lot 3.20
Principal Use
Multifamily
Max. Number of Dwelling Units
172
Min. Lot Area (acres)
5
Max. Building Story/ Height (ft)
3/40 up to 60 ft from westerly property line 4/50 remainder
Recently the property owner requested the Planning Board for a two-year extension to start construction.
The buildings located at Two Campus Drive were also demolished recently.
In 2007 Skanska AB was awarded the design/build contract for the $1.4 billion Jets/Giants NFL Football Stadium project in the Meadowlands.
PARSIPPANY — Solix, Inc. recently hosted New Jersey State Assemblywoman Aura Dunn (LD-25), who toured the Company’s Parsippany headquarters, learned more about Solix’s government and commercial client work throughout the United States, and held a town hall forum with employees.
Based in New Jersey for over 20 years, Solix is a business process solutions provider that helps connect people to essential programs and services. The Company has administered complex regulatory programs, provided comprehensive eligibility determination and enrollment services, deployed web-based and mobile technology solutions, and provided multi-channel customer care for national, state, and county-level projects.
“Making New Jersey government more efficient is a goal I share with Solix, so gaining insight into their work that connects people, organizations, and schools to critical services was encouraging. Headquartered here in New Jersey, Solix stands as a prime example of the type of outstanding talent that can be tapped into right here to create better processes that will ultimately advance our economy,” Dunn said. “This New Jersey-based business is improving lives locally and nationally, and I value the opportunities I have to learn from the employees making that happen.”
Assemblywoman Dunn serves on the Assembly Budget, Commerce and Economic Development, and Women and Children Committees and is appointed to the Human Relations Council and the Women’s Re-entry Commission. She is also a founding member and current Co-Chair of the Legislative Disability Caucus and currently serves as a board member of the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial Foundation. She volunteers as a JBWS-certified domestic violence crisis response team member for local police departments.
With Solix as a partner, public and private sector organizations can simplify complex requirements and improve the user experience for programs that significantly impact the well-being of individuals and organizations nationwide. The Company provides process and customer care solutions that result in more than $2 billion in annual funding. Solix employees are proud that they positively impact so many lives throughout the United States, exemplified by our recent work on pandemic response and economic recovery initiatives, including rental assistance and small business grant programs. For more information about Solix, please visit www.solixinc.com or call (800) 200-0818.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Loretta Gragnani scheduled a Public Hearing for Tuesday, May 2, to discuss the 2023 Municipal Budget.
The hearing will start from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard.
The Parsippany-Troy Hills Council voted unanimously to introduce the 2023 Municipal Budget at Tuesday, April 18, council meeting.
The second reading and final adoption are set for Tuesday, May 16, at 7:00 p.m. or shortly after.
The proposed budget shows an increase in the property tax levy of 3.76% and an overall tax increase of 2.57%, or $99.23 more per year per homeowner, based on an average home valuation in Parsippany of $313,063.
Mayor James Barberio said, “We are putting forward a responsible, balanced budget that provides the services our community deserves. The overall increase in the tax rate is 2.57%, and the local tax rate is 3.76%. That’s a $99.23 annual impact on the average homeowner. That comes to $8.33 a month. Nobody likes the budget with a tax increase, but we have minimized the amount of the increase while dealing with significant nationwide economic impacts and external influences. The balanced budget overcomes significant fixed cost increases created by rising inflation and contractual increases and prepares the townships for the future through critical infrastructure improvements and public safety investments. On top of the ongoing inflationary and supply chain issues, we are dealing with increases in health benefits costs, pension costs, utility costs, liability insurance premiums, and debt interest pressure, among other items, through investments in our public safety.”
Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment 2023 Members and Term Dates
Robert Iracane Chairman 12/31/25
Dave Kaplan Vice-Chair 12/31/23
Bernard Berkowitz Member 12/31/24
Scot Joskowitz Member 12/31/25
Nancy Snyder Member 12/31/23
Sridath Reddy Member 12/31/25
Davey Willans Member 12/31/24
Casey Parikh Alt. No. 1 12/31/23
Chris Mazzarella Alt. No. 2 12/31/23
John Chadwick, Planner, John T. Chadwick IV P.P.
Chas Holloway, Engineer, Keller & Kirkpatrick
Peter King, Attorney, King Moench Hirniak & Collins, LLP
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.
MORRIS COUNTY — Matt O’Donnell, the attorney who cooperated in a corruption sting operation where prominent political figures were accused of taking bribes in exchange for legal work. Facing three years in prison, O’Donnell could see postponement since cases where he is a potential witness, have not yet been heard, as reported in NJGLOBE.
Former Jersey City Board of Education President Sudhan Thomas, former Morris County Freeholder John Cesaro, and former Mount Arlington Councilman John Windish are scheduled to appear before a Superior Court judge on June 14 for a hearing.
The five defendants are charged with taking thousands of dollars in bribes from Matt O’Donnell in the form of campaign contributions. In return, the defendants allegedly promised the cooperating witness, a tax attorney, that they would vote or use their official authority or influence to hire or continue to hire his law firm for lucrative government legal work. Envelopes and paper bags filled with cash – and even a coffee cup stuffed with cash – were delivered to the defendants by the cooperating witness at restaurants, parking lots, a political fundraiser, and a campaign headquarters. Other times the cooperating witness offered checks from illegal “straw donors” – individuals reimbursed to write checks to the defendant’s campaign in amounts that complied with the legal limit on individual donations.
The following five defendants were charged separately in criminal complaints with second-degree bribery in official and political matters:
John Cesaro – Former Morris County Freeholder (Click here to download indictment)
Sudhan Thomas – Jersey City School Board President (Click here to download indictment)
Jason O’Donnell – Former State Assemblyman and Former Bayonne Mayoral Candidate (Click here to download indictment)
John Windish – Former Mount Arlington Council Member (Click here to download indictment)
Mary Dougherty – Former Morris County Freeholder Candidate
The defendants who held public office at the time of the alleged conduct – Thomas, Cesaro, and Windish – also are charged with second-degree acceptance or receipt of unlawful benefit by a public servant for official behavior.
“We allege that these political candidates were all too willing to sell the authority of their public office or the office they sought in exchange for an envelope filled with cash or illegal checks from straw donors,” said Attorney General Grewal. “This is old-school political corruption at its worst— the kind that undermines the political process and erodes public faith in government. We are working through the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability to create a culture of accountability in New Jersey, where public officials know they must act with integrity or face the consequences.”
“These cases reflect one of OPIA’s core missions, which is to root out corruption and misconduct in state and local government and related elections,” said OPIA Director Thomas Eicher. “We are determined to hold public officials and candidates responsible for their actions, no matter their political positions or alliances. New Jersey has some of the nation’s strongest anti-corruption laws. We will use them to ensure that government officials single-mindedly serve the public interest, not their own selfish interests.”
The defendants were charged in an investigation by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability which began in early 2018 and focused on political figures in Hudson and Morris counties who allegedly solicited illegal campaign contributions from the cooperating witness in return for promised official action to provide him with government work.
The alleged criminal conduct occurred between August and October 2018. Attorney General Grewal commended all of the prosecutors and detectives who conducted and supervised the investigations for the OPIA Corruption Bureau under the leadership of OPIA Director Thomas Eicher. Deputy Attorneys General Pearl Minato, John A. Nicodemo, and Anthony Robinson are prosecuting the cases under the supervision of Counsel to the Director Anthony Picione. Former OPIA Deputy Chief Jeffrey Manis also supervised the cases.
Second-degree crimes carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000. The second-degree charges against those who held public office at the time of the alleged conduct – Thomas, Cesaro, and Windish – carry a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison without eligibility for parole under New Jersey’s enhanced penalties for official corruption.
The charges are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Attorney General Grewal created the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability in September 2018 to combat corruption and strengthen public confidence in government institutions. Earlier this month, the Attorney General issued a directive codifying OPIA and making it a permanent part of the Attorney General’s Office. That directive established the OPIA Corruption Bureau as the lead office within the Department of Law & Public Safety to investigate and prosecute state criminal violations involving corruption and abuse of public trust.
O’Donnell McCord PC was located at 5 Mount Kemble Avenue, Morristown.
MORRIS COUNTY — Bed Bath & Beyond filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Sunday, April 23, after the home goods retailer failed to secure funds to stay afloat and has begun a liquidation sale. The message posted on their website reads, “Thank you to all our loyal customers. We have made the difficult decision to begin winding down our operations. Bed Bath & Beyond and buybuy Baby stores remain open to serve you.”
Sue Gove, President & CEO of Bed Bath & Beyond Inc., said, “Millions of customers have trusted us through the most important milestones in their lives – from going to college to getting married, settling into a new home to having a baby. Our teams have worked to support and strengthen our beloved banners, Bed Bath & Beyond and buybuy BABY. We deeply appreciate our associates, customers, partners, and the communities we serve, and we remain steadfastly determined to serve them throughout this process. We will continue working diligently to maximize value for the benefit of all stakeholders.”
Area locations include East Hanover at 180 Route 10 West and 545 Route 46, Totowa. The Parsippany store closed in the summer of 2019. (Crunch Fitness moved into the former location). Other New Jersey stores are Springfield, Union, Iselin, Bridgewater (already temporarily closed), and Clifton.
The buybuyBABY store in Rockaway Townsquare closed in January.
The Rockaway Mall buybuyBaby closed in January along with Princeton. At the same time Bed Bath & Beyond closed Paramus, Flanders, Manalapan, and Princeton with all the Harmon locations, including Parsippany.
The home goods retailer, which grew in popularity in the 1990s as a go-to shopping destination for couples making wedding registries and planning for new babies, has seen demand drop off in recent years as its merchandising strategy to sell more store-branded products flopped.
The corporate office is located in Union. According to a court filing, the retailer filed for bankruptcy in a District of New Jersey court, listing its estimated assets and liabilities in the range of $1 billion and $10 billion.
While the retailer has begun a liquidation sale, it intends to use the Chapter 11 proceedings to conduct a limited sale and marketing process for some or all of its assets.
The company stated that its 360 Bed Bath & Beyond and 120 buybuy BABY stores and websites will remain operating and continue serving customers as it starts efforts to effect the closure of its retail locations.
Bed Bath & Beyond shelves are still loaded with merchandise in East Hanover.
Warren Eisenberg and Leonard Feinstein worked in management positions at Arlan’s discount store chain. As that company suffered financial difficulties, and the two believed that the market would shift toward specialty stores, they decided to leave and form their own company. In 1971, they opened a store in Springfield called Bed ‘n Bath. By 1985, Eisenberg and Feinstein operated 17 New York and California stores. Also, in 1985, the first superstore was opened to remain competitive with Linens ‘n Things, Pacific Linen, and Luxury Linens. To properly represent the size increase in its retail stores, the company changed its name to Bed Bath & Beyond in 1987. The company adopted integrated computer-based inventory management systems in 1993 to better compete with Linens ‘n Things, which had utilized computer inventory management since the late 1980s.
By 1991, Bed Bath & Beyond had opened seven new superstores in New Jersey, California, Virginia, Illinois, Maryland, and Florida. By 2011, Bed Bath & Beyond had 1,142 stores.
The company went public in June 1992, making its IPO on the NASDAQ stock exchange, where its stock continues to trade under the ticker symbol BBBY. Bed Bath & Beyond first reached $1 billion in annual sales in 1999.
As of 2019, Bed Bath & Beyond operated approximately 1,530 stores in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Canada. In addition to 1,020 Bed Bath & Beyond stores, the company operated approximately 280 Cost Plus World Markets, 100 Buy Buy Baby stores, roughly 80 Christmas Tree Shops (and related brands), and more than 50 Harmon stores.
In August 2022, the company announced the closure of 150 underperforming stores and reduced its corporate and supply chain staff by about 20%.
On September 2, 2022, Bed Bath & Beyond chief financial officer Gustavo Arnal committed suicide by jumping from his balcony on the 18th floor of 56 Leonard Street. Arnal was one of the targets of a class action concerning Bed Bath & Beyond’s stock becoming a pump-and-dump scheme.
The company opened in 2023, warning investors that it may not survive the year. On January 5, shares of the company plunged almost 30% on the stock market, and the company announced it had “substantial doubt” in being able to continue to operate as a business.
MORRIS COUNTY — Mail-In Ballot Drop Boxes are now open! Your voted Mail-In Ballot can be deposited in any of the 31 drop box locations from now until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 6.
Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills has its own mail-in ballot drop box at Town Hall, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard.
The Ballot Drop boxes are all outside and under surveillance 24/7. They resemble a USPS Blue Mailbox, but are Red, White & Blue and display “Morris County – Official Ballot DropBox.” The ballots will be picked up by county representatives. All security measures will be followed when collecting and transporting the ballots back to the Board of Elections.
PARSIPPANY — Students from the Gifted & Talented GRO Program had the opportunity to Tour the Police Headquarters with Community Relations Officer Remo D’Alessandro.
During the tour, they learned the different functions of each division within the Police Department and got to see the Prisoner Processing Area.
They also met the Public Service Telecommunicators while visiting the Communications Desk to see where 9-1-1 calls and other calls for service are answered.
PARSIPPANY — New Chapter, a faith-based recovery, opened in Parsippany at 1915 Route 46.
New Chapter treatment programs rely on Christian principles and the power of surrendering to God to receive the serenity and strength to overcome the disease of addiction. It is a life-changing program that can help individuals find hope through developing or growing into their relationship with God. Their program offers faith-based approaches integrated with evidence-based clinical approaches that help the individual receive freedom from addiction and maintain long-lasting recovery.
New Chapter Faith Recovery is headed by Clinical Director Ann Gharib, MA, LPC, LCCADC, NCC.
Joseph Basta with Clinical Director Ann Gharib, MA, LPC, LCCADC, NCC.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio cut the ribbon to celebrate the grand opening of this new business, along with Council Vice President Michael dePierro, Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, and Economic Development members Jigar Shah and
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member Nicolas Limanov, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Joseph Basta, and Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi.
Nick Rafanello. Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi also attended the ceremony. Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso and Board members Nicolas Limanov and Ildiko Peluso were also in attendance.
Mayor Barberio stated, “I wish New Chapter much success. Addiction is a serious problem for so many; faith is such an important part of my own life, and bringing that aspect into the recovery process certainly seems like something that will provide strength to overcome.”
New Chapter is located at 1915 Route 46 East. They can be reached by calling (551) 353-2484 or clicking here for more information.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill presents Clinical Director Ann Gharib with a plaque welcoming “New Chapter” to Parsippany. Mayor James Barberio and Economic Development members Robert Peluso, Jigar Shah, and Nick Rafanello look on.New Chapter is located at 1915 Route 46 East. They can be reached by calling (551) 353-2484.
PARSIPPANY — The theme for this year’s Earth Day Clean Up nationwide is “Invest in our Planet.” Every year, April 22 is celebrated as Earth Day, an annual event where people demonstrate their support for protecting the planet and its environment. Many Parsippany residents of all ages gathered at Smith Field and were transported to clean up around the Boonton Reservoir, downtown Lake Hiawatha and other areas of town. Parsippany’s Earth Day Clean up with organized by Parsippany High School graduate Noah Lustig.
Earth Day Clean-Up Organizer Noah Lustig with Mayor James Barberio.
Noah said, “I am excited to announce that I am once again hosting the Boonton Reservoir Cleanup on #earthday Saturday, April 22. This project is an ongoing effort to give back to the local ecosystem and establish a walking trail around the reservoir. He thanked all the volunteers who participated.”
“Respecting Mother Earth should be our first priority,” said Mayor Barberio. “Keeping Parsippany clean ensures we are doing our part in that regard. I see a lot of Pride in Parsippany today! I thank you all for coming out!”
The electronic sign at the entrance of Smith Field.Parsippany resident Esther Rucci with Councilman Justin Musella cleaning up around Boonton Reservoir.Members of Sewa gathered up with Joe Plescia to help clean up.Parsippany High School student Devran Beg enters the bus to be transported to a location to help clean up during Earth Day. Kaitlyn Martocci joins Devran on the bus.Parsippany High School students volunteered during Parsippany’s Earth Day Clean up. Samantha Egger, Madeleine Otinsky, Jonathon Spirock, Matteo Cacciapaglia, Isabella Morales, Kaitlyn Martocci, Dervan Beg, Kimberly Lam, Chloe Young, and Katelin Chen were eager to join all the volunteers.Matteo Cacciapaglia waiting to participate in the Clean-Up.All the volunteers gathered at Smith Field to participate in Parsippany’s Earth Day Clean-Up, organized by Noah Lustig.Volunteers were cleaning up around Boonton Reservoir. Parsippany’s Earth Day Clean-Up, organized by Noah Lustig.
Earth Day is an annual event on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First held on April 22, 1970, it now includes a wide range of events coordinated globally by EARTHDAY.ORG, including 1 billion people in more than 193 countries.
Build A Healthy Economy: Sustainability is the path to prosperity for humanity and businesses. Companies that developed strong Environment Social Governance (ESG) standards are seeing better profitability, stronger financial performance, and happier employees. There is no longer a choice between going green and growing long-term profits. Businesses of all sizes must act now. If they don’t, climate change will cause even more catastrophic damage to our economies and NEGATIVELY IMPACT US ALL!
Esther Rucci and Jeff GoldererMorris County Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo with Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Frank Neglia.Volunteers cleaned up around Boonton Reservoir—Parsippany’s Earth Day Clean-Up, organized by Noah Lustig.
PARSIPPANY — A new family-run Italian restaurant opened in the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills on Wednesday, April 12.
Lo Sfizio Italian Street Food, managed by Josephina Spinosa and Sergio Capdevielle, is located at 77 New Road.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio cutting the ribbon at Lo Sfizio Italian Street Food.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Loretta Gragnani, and Vice President Michael dePierro were on hand to cut the ribbon and join in the celebration.
Also present was Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, Board members Ildiko Peluso and Nicolas Limanov; Property owner Carmen Rodriquez; Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Secretary Raj Dichpally, and member Jigar Shah. Also attending was Patrick Minutillo, Parsippany Focus Food Critic.
Spinosa said, “I was eight years old when my parents decided to embark on a new journey and move to the United States of America. My mother’s family immigrated to Pennsylvania years before and opened a chain of Italian restaurants and pizzerias outside of Philadelphia.”
Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill samples delicious cappuccino.
“I guess you could say that working in the restaurant business is in my DNA! Cooking has always been a big part of my family. It is one of the ways we come together at the dinner table and enjoys each other’s company and, of course, a great meal. My love for cooking was passed on to me by my grandmother. I can still remember the smell of freshly baked bread in the kitchen coming home from school. I used to love to be in the kitchen with her and help her prepare meals. I was inspired by how she turned simple ingredients into amazing dishes. I was only nine years old when I decided to write down her recipes in a little red notebook, which today has become the staple to many of the Neapolitan specialties I enjoy preparing,” she continued.
Josephina said, “My mother also played a significant role in my kitchen upbringing. Seeing her cooking for the holidays and Sunday dinners for the entire family has made me realize that food can bring people together. She has inspired me to learn and use my creativity in the kitchen. Her pizzetta montenara holds a special place in my heart. Pizzetta montenara is a delicious Neapolitan Street food that consists of fried pizza dough topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil. It’s a popular dish in Naples, Italy, and has gained popularity worldwide. It was one of the first dishes on the menu, and it is my mother’s recipe.”
Leonardo, Sergio, and Josephina
She moved to New Jersey after marrying her husband, Sergio Capdevielle. The couple lives in Montclair with their one-year-old son, Leonardo.
“Parsippany is a thriving community with a strong economy, a mix of cultures, and many attractions for residents and tourists. Being surrounded by a vibrant food scene and a supportive community gave me the confidence to turn my passion into a business. Opening Lo Sfizio in Parsippany felt like the right next step for me. I want to bring my love and passion for Italian food and my family’s traditions to this warm and welcoming community. The goal is always to provide quality food made with fresh ingredients and bring our customers a taste of Italian street food. Lo Sifizo and its staff are committed to providing a cozy atmosphere, a smiling face, and delicious food while considering my nonna’s words: “I veri ingredienti nella cucina sono amore e passione!” or “The real ingredients in your cooking are love and passion!” These words have led me on this adventure and have become the core values of Lo Sfizio’s philosophy. Our doors are open, come and become a part of our family,” said Josephina.
The seating area of Lo Sfizio Italian Street Food
Lo Sfizio Italian Street Food is located at 77 New Road. They can be reached by calling (973) 323-1505 or clicking here to view their website. You can also download their menu by clicking here. They are open Tuesday through Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Closed Monday.
Lo Sfizio Italian Street Food is located at 77 New Road
PARSIPPANY — VSA Future, the one-of-a-kind enrichment learning center that has served students in New Jersey since 2015, will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of its new location on Saturday, April 29.
The ceremony begins at 1:00 p.m. at 2561 Route 10 East, Parsippany (Morris Plains mailing address).
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James R. Barberio and township council members, along with Frank Cahill, Chairman Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee, will be present to commemorate this new chapter for VSA Future and the many students and families who have supported VSA’s educational mission. The general public and families interested in learning more about how their child can benefit from VSA’s active learning models are invited to attend.
Refreshments and door prizes will be available. Open House attendees will be eligible to enter an exclusive raffle with $600 in VSA savings and receive one-day-only special discounts.
Since its inception eight years ago, VSA Future has expanded its footprint virtually, teaching students in 30 states and internationally. The academic center has year-round offerings to challenge students beyond their classroom experiences and prepare them to become confident world citizens. Upcoming courses for this summer include Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary and Scholastic Writing Award Preparation.
“We’re beyond thrilled to invite the public to our grand opening and begin a new chapter in VSA Future’s mission to engage and motivate students with a growth mindset,” said Director Dr. Julia Guo. “Opening our Parsippany location means we can offer in-person educational opportunities that have the necessary socialization benefits to prevent learning loss in young students. Our in-person courses will bear the trademarks of the VSA classroom: small class sizes and individualized feedback, interactive learning, and a rigorous, custom-designed curriculum.”
Following the ribbon-cutting celebration, VSA Future’s grand opening will also include an open house, featuring VSA directors and teachers who will discuss VSA’s ongoing and upcoming classes, including its 2023 Fun & Learning Summer Camp program.
The summer camp program will fully utilize VSA Future’s new location.
Students participating in the active and engaging day camp program, which runs from June 26 to September 1, will participate in everything from intensive academics and Public Speaking to Outdoor Oasis, Mad Science, Global Speaker Series, Arts and Crafts, and so much more.
VSA Future is now conveniently located in the same building as the new children’s amusement center Huckleberry, its 2023 Fun & Learning Summer Camp program partner. With cutting-edge gaming technology and years-long expertise in family entertainment, Huckleberry offers a safe and stimulating environment for campers of all ages to learn and have fun. With over 15,000 square feet, Huckleberry boasts indoor and outdoor play areas, VR games, and more. Regularly sanitized equipment and state-of-the-art video surveillance ensure campers have a safe and exciting place to play.
“Here at Huckleberry, we’re excited to work with VSA to offer our summer campers a space for play and exploration,” said Steve Song, the founder of Huckleberry.
VSA Future is at 2561 Route 10 East in Parsippany (Morris Plains). You can reach VSA at (973) 951-9600 or at vsafuture.com.
PARSIPPANY — Earth Day Clean Up will be held on Saturday, April 22 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Let’s Clean Up Parsippany! Join us in this Township wide event.
Registration is required by clicking here. An email with additional details will be sent.
Several locations throughout Parsippany will be targeted to be cleaned up of debris and garbage, including the Jersey City/Boonton Reservoir.
Check-in will be at the Smith Field C Parking Lot at 9:00 a.m.
Volunteers will be shuttled to various locations by Township Buses. Heavy-duty gloves are recommended.
Additional questions or need more info? Please get in touch with Parsippany Recreation at recreation@parsippany.net.
MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Anthony M. Bucco has introduced legislation that would delay the fourth round of fair share affordable housing obligations for municipalities from 2025 to 2028.
“The pandemic and related shutdowns and restrictions imposed by Governor Murphy had a major impact on the ability of municipalities to resolve their third-round affordable housing obligations,” said Bucco (R-25). “While towns are still trying to get back on track, the next round is quickly approaching. If we don’t implement a reasonable delay to the fourth round, we’re sure to end up with more confusion, litigation, and unnecessary costs for property taxpayers. This bill offers relief to our towns and much-needed time to keep working.”
Bucco’s bill, S-3739, would delay the start of the fourth round of affordable housing obligations, including present and prospective needs and related litigation, until July 1, 2028.
The legislation recognizes that municipalities have incurred significant expenses in complying with fair share affordable housing obligations, which ultimately are borne by New Jersey taxpayers.
It also notes the severe hardship towns have faced in trying to comply with their affordable housing obligations as a result of the pandemic, along with the recognition of the New Jersey Supreme Court that affordable housing policies are best left to the Legislature.
“The short delay we’re proposing is no different than the numerous other deadlines and timeframes the Legislature has already updated to account for the disruptions of the pandemic,” Bucco added. “By delaying the fourth round of affordable housing obligations, we can provide much-needed relief to taxpayers and municipalities while also ensuring that we have the data and resources necessary to make informed decisions about future affordable housing policies.”
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Council voted unanimously to introduce the 2023 Municipal Budget at Tuesday, April 18 council meeting. The second reading and final adoption are set for Tuesday, May 16 at 7:00 p.m. or shortly thereafter.
Parsippany residents are facing another tax increase due to the introduction of a $242,243,625.75 budget.
The municipal portion of the budget is $60,497,056.75, up from 2022 which was $58,280,084.00; Municipal Library Tax is $3,168,912.00, up from $2,995,088.00; Municipal Open Space is $1,461,601.00 up from $1,458,635.00; Local School District (Estimated) $152,541,056.00 up from $149,484,427.00; County (Estimated) $24,000,000.00 up from $23,439,094.00; County Open Space (Estimated) $575,000.00 up from $565,003.00.
The 2022 Municipal Tax rate was 0.798 and in 2023 will increase to 0.828 or a 3.76% property tax levy.
The proposed budget shows an increase in the property tax levy of 3.76% and an overall tax increase of 2.57%, or $99.23 more per year per homeowner, based on an average home valuation in Parsippany of $313,063.
Mayor James Barberio said, “We are putting forward a responsible, balanced budget that provides the services our community deserves. The overall increase in the tax rate is 2.57%, and the local tax rate is 3.76%. That’s a $99.23 annual impact on the average homeowner. That comes to $8.33 a month. Nobody likes the budget with a tax increase, but we have minimized the amount of the increase while dealing with significant nationwide economic impacts and external influences. The balanced budget overcomes significant fixed cost increases created by rising inflation and contractual increases, and, prepares the townships for the future through critical infrastructure improvements and public safety investments. On top of the ongoing inflationary and supply chain issues, we are dealing with increases in health benefits costs, increased pension costs, increased utility costs, increased liability insurance premiums, and increased debt interest pressure among other items through investments in our public safety.”
“Our health benefits went up approximately 9%. Our debt interest went up 33%. Our pension costs are about 14%, 15%, and utility costs are up 14%,” continued Barberio.
According to a message included with the budget, “The budget process allows any interested resident to be better informed. After the introduction, the Township will be available to answer questions by phone or email and the public will have the opportunity to communicate their ideas/concerns with the Administration at any time during the period before the final hearing. This is about maximizing opportunities to be transparent with public funds and providing members of the public to be involved in the process.”
Councilman Justin Musella was firm on having the Township Council hold public hearings with the department heads to understand the increases in the budget and to allow taxpayers an opportunity to ask questions to the Administration, Department Heads, and Councilmembers.
It was after the Council approved the introduction of the budget, Musella, then made a motion to hold public hearings. The motion was seconded by Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., and then voted in favor by all the other council members.
Mayor Barberio, Council President Loretta Gragnani, and Council Vice President Michael dePierro initially resisted the request, saying they were confident there was no fat left to cut in the budget.
“I think the important thing that we owe to the taxpayers is having a process where there is public input and we have the opportunity to interview the department heads, the CFO, and the business administrator,” Musella said. “So that way, I can have a full understanding as to the meaning behind the full increase.”
Councilman Paul Carifi agreed with Musella, then others fell in line and eventually the vote was unanimous to schedule a budget hearing. “I’m all for it,” Carifi said.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio
Mayor Barberio insisted to the Council that there is nothing to cut from his budget and holding any public budget session “is ridiculous, and if you guys want to do it, you can do it……set up your meetings.”
Throughout the State of New Jersey, special budget hearings are routinely held during which department heads publicly outline their budgetary needs and provide insight into increased funding requests. For example, Boonton and Denville hold public budget workshops that involve public and council participation. Wayne Township held its special budget meeting during which all department heads and Mayor Christopher Vergano fielded questions and provided their opinions on various topics before the introduction of Wayne’s budget.
To download the complete introduced budget click here.
Council President Loretta Gragnani scheduled the Public Hearing for Tuesday, May 2 at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. The hearing will start from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
