DOVER — The Dover School District Board of Education recognizes that parent and community involvement, input, and advice are meaningful and essential.  To that end, they seek the help of community members interested in actively participating in our schools and would like to serve on the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC). Click here to complete the application.

The CAC will serve as a conduit for feedback, advice, and information on matters affecting the school district. This allows the Dover School District Board of Education to listen directly to the community while fostering a collaborative environment and relationship between the school district and the community.

Community members interested in serving on the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) should complete this brief application by June 30th.

The Community Relations Committee will consider these applications, make recommendations to the Board of Education, and, with the Board of Education’s approval, appoint members.

Please note that the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) will be strictly advisory and work directly with the Community Relations Committee. The Community Relations Committee will inform the Board of Education, who will take final or formal action in full.

Please refer to the Board Policy for more details. 

MORRIS COUNTY — Under Brian Varela’s leadership, the Morris Dems Hispanic Caucus (MDHC) Kick-Off Event, held on Saturday, July 13, was a remarkable success, attracting over 70 attendees from Wharton and its surrounding areas. The MDHC’s commitment to fostering community engagement and inclusivity was evident as the event met and exceeded its goals. The initiative to form the Wharton Democratic Committee received enthusiastic support, establishing a solid foundation for future civic involvement.

The guest speaker was Dr. Patricia Campos-Medina (First Latina Senatorial Candidate). In January 2024, Dr. Campos-Medina announced her campaign for the U.S. Senate, focusing on policies that support working families, affordable healthcare, student debt forgiveness, and strengthening federal labor laws. She is recognized as one of New Jersey’s most influential political leaders and has received numerous awards for her contributions to labor rights and social justice.​

The MDHC’s innovative approach to community organizing was a key factor in the event’s success. The leadership’s ability to unite diverse groups for a common purpose underscores their vision for a cohesive community. Moving forward, Varela and his team plan to maintain this momentum, focusing on empowering local voices and ensuring that every community member has a platform to be heard.

The MDHC has garnered respect and sparked a significant increase in civic engagement in Wharton.

As we look to the future, Brian’s ongoing efforts and strategic vision will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the local political landscape and fostering a community that values participation and inclusivity.

The Morris Dems Hispanic Caucus board consists of the following:

•Chair – Brian Varela
•Vice Chair – Sandra Wittner
•Secretary – Judy Hernandez
•Treasurer – Deb Tejada
•Sergeant at Arms – Michael Soriano
•Strategic Advisory Member – Stacey Ewald
•Strategic Advisory Member – Amalia Duarte

For more information on the Morris Dems Hispanic Caucus, click here.

DOVER — Excitement is building as the Town of Dover prepares to host the Dover Cultural Extravaganza on Saturday, September 28th. Scheduled from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Crescent Field, located at 120 First Street, this event promises a day filled with cultural celebrations, community spirit, and vibrant activities. Mega Bite Events is assisting the Town of Dover as a promoter in coordinating and planning the Dover Cultural Extravaganza.

This festival aims to bring together residents and visitors for a day of festivities, which include:

1. Live Performances: Music, dance, and theatrical performances representing various cultures.
2. Food Stalls: A variety of cuisines from different cultural backgrounds.
3. Arts and Crafts: Exhibits and workshops featuring traditional and contemporary arts and crafts.
4. Family Activities: Games, face painting, and other activities for children and families.
5. Cultural Exhibits: Displays and information booths about different cultures and traditions.

The event will kick off with vendor load-in starting at 8:00 a.m. and running until 10:00 a.m. Vendors are reminded to be punctual, as anyone arriving after 10:00 a.m. cannot load in and set up. This year, a 10×10 space will be provided for each vendor near the event’s entrance, with larger spaces available upon request.

The application process is straightforward for those looking to participate. Local vendors can fill out the application form (Click here) and email it to [email protected] or mail it to the Township of Dover, Attn: Michelle Espada, 37 North Sussex Street, Dover, NJ 07801.

The fee for non-food vendor spaces is $130.00, with an additional 4% fee for credit card payments. It’s important to note that fees must be paid in full upon acceptance, and half of the fee will be refunded if a vendor cancels at least 30 days before the event. Starting September 1st, the fee will increase to $150.00 if any spaces are still available.

Vendors at the Dover Cultural Extravaganza must abide by all policies and procedures outlined in the application contract. This includes keeping their vendor spaces clean and not leaving any garbage behind, as a $50.00 fee will be charged for any trash left in the area. Furthermore, vendors are encouraged to post and tag the Town of Dover on Facebook and Instagram to promote their participation.

One of the key attractions of the Dover Cultural Extravaganza is the diverse range of products and services vendors offer. While exclusive vendor product opportunities are unavailable, the event organizers strive to limit similar vendors to two per category, ensuring a variety of offerings for attendees. Vendors must also ensure their activities do not interfere with neighboring booths and that their displays are within the confines of their assigned spaces.

Safety is a top priority for the event. Vendors must provide tent weights, and any tent larger than 10×10 must have a permit from the Dover Fire Department. Additionally, the event is covered by JIF insurance, protecting community events, and vendors are expected to accept personal liability for their booths and activities.

The Town of Dover is excited as the Dover Cultural Extravaganza date approaches. The event promises to unite people of all ages for a celebration, cultural exchange, and community bonding. With a lineup of local vendors, live entertainment, and activities for the whole family, the Dover Cultural Extravaganza is set to be a spectacular event showcasing what Dover has to offer.

Sponsor banners are available for $1,000 and will be displayed on the field for a year.

For more information or to apply as a vendor, contact Michelle Espada at (973) 366-2200 ext. 2116 or email [email protected]. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to participate in a vibrant community event celebrating Dover’s rich cultural tapestry.

DOVER — Over the past two days, the Kiwanis of Greater Dover, in collaboration with Premier Taxi Company, distributed over 450 boxes of breakfast sandwiches and other food items to the Dover community—this significant effort aimed to support residents, particularly in light of ongoing economic challenges.

Maria Rosario, a charter member of the Kiwanis, was pivotal in facilitating this donation. Her dedication and coordination were crucial in ensuring the successful distribution of these food items.

Percy, representing Premier Taxi Company, generously donated vehicles to transport the food boxes, enabling efficient and timely delivery to those in need.

Valerie Macchio from the Sparta Community Food Pantry contributed significantly to this initiative. Her efforts ensured that senior buildings, families, and other community members received the donations. The community’s response was overwhelmingly positive, with every single box being given away.

This collaborative effort highlights local organizations’ and individuals’ strong community spirit and dedication in supporting those in need. The Kiwanis of Greater Dover, Premier Taxi Company, and the Sparta Community Food Pantry continue to exemplify the power of community service and generosity.

For more information on the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, click here.

DOVER — On Friday, July 5, at 8:54 p.m., Mr. Elvis Suarez, 38, of Dover, was stopped in traffic on East McFarlan Street at the signal near the intersection of Mt. Hope Avenue facing west. His 2011 Dodge Ram was in the left-hand lane.

Mr. Rene Sanchez, 40, of Randolph, was traveling west on East McFarlan Street towards the intersection of Mt. Hope Avenue in the left-hand lane and struck Mr. Suarez’s vehicle from behind, causing minor damage.

Mr. Rene Sanchez complained of pain in his lower back but refused medical attention from the Dover Rescue Squad.

Mr. Sanchez was arrested for driving while intoxicated. Dover Police Officer Caraig Christopher determined that the motor vehicle accident was Mr. Sanchez’s fault. Bunky’s Towing towed and impounded his vehicle, a 2015 Jeep Patriot.

When Dover Police Officer Christopher questioned Mr. Sanchez, he observed his eyes were bloodshot, watery, and droopy. When Mr. Sanchez’s speech was slow, the officer detected an odor of alcoholic flavorings coming from his breath. The officer then conducted a number of field sobriety tests.

After the tests, Police Officer Christopher advised Mr. Sanchez he was being placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated. Mr. Sanchez was transported to the Rockaway Township Police Department where two Alcotests were performed, with a result of 0.14%. Mr. Sanchez was issued the following traffic summons:

• Driving while intoxicated (39:4-50)
• Careless driving (39:4-97)

Mr. Sanchez was returned to the Dover Police Department and then released to a responsible person after signing the John’s Law form.

A court appearance is mandatory and scheduled for July 15.

Editors Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.