Pedestrian Killed, Hopatcong Man Claims Self-Defense Top Local News

UPDATE: Garbage Truck Kills Former Sparta Employee

James Friedberg, 71, a retired Sparta employee, was killed Friday morning after he was struck by a garbage truck while crossing Knoll Road in Sparta.

Guiseppe Tedesco, charged with fatally shooting borough resident Alyssa Ruggieri in 2010, claimed self-defense in court Monday.

Township employees who worked with James Friedberg when he was the township Animal Control Officer described him as an animal lover dedicated to his job, who was thoughtful and caring with a big sense of humor.

Deer Hunting OK on Natural Preserve in Hopatcong

The Hopatcong Borough Council approved bow hunting on the Natural Preserve for the 2012-13 white tail deer hunting season at Wednesday night's meeting. Residents can start signing up on Monday.

The first two bears in the week-long black bear hunt in Northern New Jersey were killed in Jefferson and Sparta on Monday.

Hopatcong Family Brings Bagel Café to Neighborhood

A Hopatcong family had their grand opening of Uncle Sam's Bagel Café this week, a new restaurant that serves a variety of American food for breakfast, lunch and dinner, located on 30 Hopatchung Road.

Cablevision Contract Approved in Hopatcong

The Hopatcong Borough Council approved a 10-year cable television franchise contract with Cablevision of Morris LLC this week. Under the contract, which is with the current provider, the company will pay the borough two percent of gross revenues, or roughly $54,000 a year, for the 10 years.

Sandy-Impacted Residents Get Boost From Neighbors

Hundreds showed up to Pavinci's Italian Grill on Sunday for a benefit to raise money to the three borough families who lost their homes from Superstorm Sandy.