CHSW Plans 'Jump in the Lake' Fundraiser

Residents standing in opposition to the proposed plan for RD Realty to erect a mixed-use retail and residential complex on 26.6 acres of the Waterview tract are taking the next step in their fight. In order to cover the cost of lawyers and experts to argue its case before the Township Council, will hold a fundraiser April 28.

The group, formerly known as Don't Rezone Waterview, is inviting community members to take part in its “Jump in the Lake!” event on Sunday, April 28, from noon-4 p.m. The fundraiser will take place at Island Beach, on the Boulevard in Mountain Lakes. 

According to a group statement, the event offers a number of ways for residents to participate. People can take an icy plunge into the lake or they can stay away from the water and make a donation. Those planning to take the leap are encouraged to create their own fundraising pages so that they can collect sponsors and donors.

CHSW was created by Parsippany, Mountain Lakes and Boonton residents to address citizens’ legal and environmental concerns surrounding the proposed rezoning of Waterview in Parsippany. The group is working in partnership with the New Jersey Highlands Coalitions, which believe the current high-density, mixed-use proposal presents serious environmental and quality of life concerns for residentss. Proceeds will fund group efforts to address these concerns during Town Council deliberations and to make a "big splash" in support of responsible development. 

For the April 28 event, those age 8 and above may take the plunge at 1 p.m., 2 p.m. or 3 p.m.; jumpers are asked to arrive 30 minutes before their selected jump time. 

 The event will also feature family-friendly music, food, vendors and entertainment. Prizes will be awarded to those wearing the craziest outfits; to the largest sports, business or neighborhood teams; and to those who bring in the most money.

The biggest fundraiser will win a hot-air balloon ride for two donated by A Beautiful Balloon.

To register, visit www.jumpinthelake.org and either print the registration form to mail in, or sign up online through the link to Crowdrise, where participants should register and create an individual fundraising page using Facebook, Twitter and email.  

There is a cost to take the leap: $30 per jumper or $100 for a family of four, plus processing fees. Those who register by April 15 will get a free T-shirt.

Business interested in showing their support for the anti-Waterview development cause can become official sponsors by donating money or contributing prizes. Sponsorship levels are $10,000, $5,000, $2,500, $1,000 and $500.

For more information, contact Sueanne Sylvester at 973-265-4168 or send email to jumpinthelakeml@gmail.com.