MOUNTAIN LAKES – Mark your calendars! Starting Monday, January 6, at 10:00 a.m., registration for the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA Summer Camp officially opens—online only! This year’s camp promises an unforgettable experience where children can Discover, Explore, and Thrive.
The camp offers 2-week sessions running from June 23 to August 15, open to all children in grades 1 through 7. Campers will enjoy a variety of exciting activities, including Theme Days, Off-Site Adventures, and a Camp Carnival, ensuring each day is filled with fun and memorable experiences.
In addition to the traditional camp, the Y is proud to offer Specialty Camps, such as:
Esports Camp for gaming enthusiasts
Travel Sports Camp for young athletes
Camp Academy for kids eager to combine fun with learning
The YMCA is also committed to inclusivity, providing an inclusive camp option to meet the needs of all children.
Detailed information, including pricing, can be found on our website. Financial assistance is available through scholarships for families in need, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to enjoy a meaningful summer camp experience.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to create lasting memories for your child. Spaces fill quickly, so be ready to register online on January 6!
DOVER — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally confirmed that Sergio Rodriguez, 29, of Dover, has been charged with criminal coercion, a crime of the fourth degree, following an investigation by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
Rodriguez, who is a member of the Town of Dover Council, is alleged to have identified himself as a public official to intimidate a liquor store owner and employee into ceasing the sales of alcohol to specific individuals. Rodriguez is alleged to have entered the Dover Liquors on October 25, 2024, informing an employee that the store’s liquor license would not be renewed if they continued to sell alcohol to individuals seen drinking in a nearby courtyard. The business owner spoke to Rodriguez at a later time, and during that conversation, Rodriguez allegedly reiterated that he was a councilman and could prevent the renewal of their liquor license if the owner did not comply with his demands.
“I have no comment at this time, but I do hope this case is reported in its entirety, including its resolution, rather than only covering the allegations against me,” said Sergio Rodriquez.
On January 2, 2025, Rodriguez was charged with one count of fourth-degree criminal coercion, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:13-5, by way of a summons complaint. He was processed and released pending a court appearance. In accordance with state law, the defendant’s arrest photograph will not be released.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite these accusations, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Town of Dover Mayor James Dodd, Detective Juan Concepcion, and Chief Delaney celebrate Detective Concepcion's recognition as 2024 Officer of the Year for his outstanding service and dedication.
DOVER — Town of Dover Mayor James Dodd and Chief Delaney proudly presented the 2024 Officer of the Year award to Detective Juan Concepcion, recognizing his exceptional dedication and commitment to duty.
Chosen by his peers and supervisors, Detective Concepcion excelled in the Detective Bureau, resolving high-profile cases and delivering justice for victims. Congratulations to Detective Concepcion on this well-deserved honor!
Sal and Charlotte Monteleone of Charlotte’s Web received "Business of the Year Award"
DOVER — Mayor James Dodd presented the Town of Dover’s Business of the Year award to Sal and Charlotte Monteleone of Charlotte’s Web.
After over 43 years of serving delicious food, offering personable service, and actively supporting the Dover community, Mayor Dodd praised Charlotte’s Web as a “local gem.” Charlotte expressed her astonishment and joy at receiving the honor, while Sal shared heartfelt gratitude, attributing their success to their employees’ unwavering loyalty and dedication. “We couldn’t have survived the challenges of road closures, construction, and COVID without our incredible staff,” Sal said.
The couple also thanked the Town of Dover for their continued support and recognition.
Charlotte’s Web is located at 39 West Clinton Street.
Decades of Dedication: Charlotte’s Web Earns Top Recognition in Dover
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners will convene for its annual reorganization meeting on Friday, January 3, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting, open to the public, will take place on the fifth floor of the Administration and Records Building, located at 10 Court Street, Morristown. For those unable to attend in person, the event will also be accessible online via WebEx.
During the meeting, Commissioner Tayfun Selen is anticipated to assume the role of board director, succeeding Christine Myers. Commissioner Stephen Shaw will continue serving as deputy director. Additionally, Commissioners Stephen H. Shaw, John Krickus, and Deborah Smith, all re-elected in November, will take their oaths of office for new three-year terms. Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling will also be sworn in for her second five-year term.
Commissioner Profiles:
Stephen H. Shaw: Entering his third term, Shaw is a former mayor and 12-year council member in Mountain Lakes. He represents Morris County on the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA), where he was elected secretary of the NJTPA Board of Trustees in 2024.
John Krickus: A U.S. Marine Corps veteran and former mayor of Washington Township, Krickus begins his fourth term on the board. He has also served as board director during his tenure.
Deborah Smith: First elected in 2016, Smith is starting her fourth term. She previously served as council president in Denville and led the Board of Commissioners as director during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
About the Board:
The seven-member Board of County Commissioners oversees policies and operations across six departments: Employee Resources, Finance, Human Services, Law & Public Safety, Public Works, and Information Technology. Commissioners are elected at-large for staggered three-year terms and act as liaisons to specific departments and functions. Day-to-day operations are managed by County Administrator Deena Leary.
The board’s responsibilities include state-mandated functions, such as managing court facilities, law enforcement, welfare programs, and infrastructure, as well as optional services aimed at enhancing cost efficiency and improving the quality of life for Morris County residents.
For more information about the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, click here.
Join Jump! Immersion School’s Open House: A Gateway to Language and Learning
EAST HANOVER — Jump! Immersion School, a premier private day school specializing in bilingual education, is hosting its highly anticipated January Open House on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The event, held at 316 Ridgedale Avenue, offers parents and prospective students a glimpse into the school’s unique programs and vibrant learning environment.
Jump! Immersion School provides an innovative bilingual education in English and Spanish or English and Mandarin for children from Preschool (ages 2.5 and up) through 6th Grade. With a strong foundation of academic excellence, the school inspires confident, curious, and globally minded learners.
At the Open House, attendees will have the opportunity to:
Meet the school’s Leadership Team and learn about their vision for bilingual education.
Explore the renowned Spanish and Mandarin bilingual programs, tailored to immerse young learners in language and culture.
Tour the school’s colorful classrooms, designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and curiosity.
Ask questions about the curriculum, admissions process, or anything else they may need to know.
With the 2025–2026 school year on the horizon, Jump! Immersion School encourages families to enroll early to secure their spot and avoid being placed on the waitlist.
“This Open House is a wonderful opportunity for families to experience firsthand what makes Jump! Immersion School unique,” said a representative from the school. “We are committed to nurturing students’ linguistic and academic abilities while fostering their confidence and love for learning.”
Jump! Immersion School has built a reputation for excellence in bilingual education, equipping students with the skills and mindset necessary to thrive in an increasingly globalized world.
For more information about the January Open House or Jump! Immersion School’s programs, visit the school’s website or contact their admissions office.
Event Details: Date: Saturday, January 25, 2025 Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Location: 316 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover
Discover how Jump! Immersion School can help your child become a confident, bilingual learner ready to embrace a bright future.
Newly elected officers of the Morris County Young Republicans: Jake Dickenson (Secretary), Bradley Chalupski (Treasurer), Chris Ilic (Chairman), Robert Quinn (Vice Chairman), Angela Cantore (State Committeewoman), and Nicholas Niemczyk (State Committeeman).
MORRIS COUNTY — State Senator Anthony Bucco, Jr. installed the Morris County Young Republicans’ newly elected officers: Chris Ilic (Chairman), Robert Quinn (Vice Chairman), Bradley Chalupski (Treasurer), Jake Dickenson (Secretary), Nicholas Niemczyk (State Committeeman), and Angela Cantore (State Committeewoman) at the Tuscany Villa Ristorante.
The Morris County Young Republicans, a branch of the New Jersey Young Republican Federation, brings together Republicans aged 18 to 40 who reside in Morris County.
Christopher Ilic, 18, of Boonton Township, a student at Mountain Lakes High School, was recently sworn in as the Chair of the Morris County Young Republicans. He also serves as the Vice Chairman of the New Jersey High School Republicans.
Chris is focused on ensuring the proper infrastructure is in place to engage and win over young voters ahead of the 2025 gubernatorial race. He expressed optimism about the party’s prospects, stating, “I like our chances going into the gubernatorial election. 2021 and 2024 were both in single digits in the Garden State. I believe we can close the gap and flip the governorship come 2025.”
Robert Quinn, 26, of Lake Hiawatha, is a Montclair State University Class of 2023 graduate with a degree in Political Science. He currently serves as a Legislative Aide to Assemblyman Jay Webber and was installed as Vice Chairman of the Morris County Young Republicans.
Bradley Chalupski, 40, of Rockaway Township, graduated from Seton Hall School of Law with a background in law, marketing, and communications. Recently sworn in as Treasurer of the Morris County Young Republicans, Bradley is passionate about strengthening the Republican Party in Morris County, stating, “I’m excited to help build a strong Republican Party in Morris County.”
Jake Dickenson, 23, of Morristown, is currently studying at Rutgers Law. He aspires to become a member of the New Jersey Bar and aims to be the first lawyer in his family. Jake is eager to contribute meaningfully to the community and the Young Republicans, saying, “I look forward to contributing meaningfully to the community and the Young Republicans.” Jake was sworn in as the new Secretary.
Angela Cantore, 33, from Butler, was sworn in as State Committeewoman. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management from the Rutgers Business School and brings over seven years of corporate experience, excelling in business planning for prestigious companies. Driven by a lifelong passion for law, Angela made the bold decision to transition from a business career to a legal one. She earned a Paralegal certification from Boston University and most recently served as a Court Clerk for Wayne Township.
An aspiring law school student, Angela’s ultimate goal is to build a career in politics and/or constitutional law, combining her diverse expertise with her dedication to making a meaningful impact in the legal and political arenas.
State Senator Anthony Bucco, Jr. installed the Morris County Young Republicans’ newly elected officers
Quinn said, “I’m looking forward to growing the grassroots of our party together and welcoming in the next generation of Republicans.”
Nicholas Niemczyk, 22, is a Senior at the Catholic University of America, majoring in Political Science. He is currently an intern to Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (LA-01) and interned with five other Members of Congress besides him.
Niemczyk said “As I take on the role of State Committeeman for the Morris County Young Republicans, my primary goal is to empower and engage the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of our party and our state. Looking towards 2025, I am committed to fostering a strong, unified voice for young conservatives throughout New Jersey. We will continue to focus on building a strong network of young Republicans, driving grassroots involvement, and creating opportunities for young leaders to impact every level of government.”
Outgoing Chairman Chris Paz shares valuable pointers with incoming Chairman Chris Ilic as he prepares to take on his new role leading the Morris County Young Republicans.
“We must unite to strengthen our state party and make a lasting impact in local, state, and national elections. Additionally, I hope to encourage young voters to get involved in the political process, advocate for the values we hold as conservatives, and prepare the next generation of Republican leaders who will continue to push for a prosperous, secure, and free future for all New Jerseyans,” said Niemczyk.
Attendees at the event included State Senator Anthony Bucco, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Long Hill Township Mayor Guy Piserchia, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Morris County Republican Committeeman Larry Casha, Chair of the Morris County Women’s Republican Club Debbie Casha, and Aaron Oliver, among other distinguished guests.
The Morris County Young Republicans (MCYRs) is a political organization that brings together young professionals, students, and politically active individuals who share an interest in Republican values and principles. The group serves as a networking and advocacy platform for young Republicans in Morris County.
Who Can Join?
The Morris County Young Republicans actively supports the Republican Party at the local, state, and national levels and is committed to ensuring the party’s continued strength for future generations. Founded in the early 1980s by Assemblyman Michael Patrick Carroll, the organization boasts a history of notable leadership, including past chairs such as Freeholder Doug Cabana and Morris Township Committeeman Bruce Sisler. It is a way to cultivate leadership skills, gain political experience, and influence the direction of the Republican Party at the local and state levels.
To contact Morris County Young Republicans email: [email protected] or Phone (973) 998-4955.
The property owner of 100 Cherry Hill Road, Parsippany, has proposed a development project consisting of 325 residential units, including 65 affordable housing units. The plan involves constructing two new multifamily buildings on a vacant section of the corporate campus. This development aims to blend modern housing options with affordable living solutions, contributing to the area's housing diversity. The project should be completed in 2025.
MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP) provides housing subsidies to very low-income residents for safe, sanitary housing. Eligible applicants must meet all income and residency requirements, and only New Jersey residents, aged 18 or older, may apply. A total of 6,000 households will be selected for the waiting list through a lottery system.
Key Details:
Enrollment Period: January 13, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. to January 31, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time).
How to Apply: Pre-applications must be submitted online by clicking here. Assistance is available in 90 languages.
Preferences: Veterans, homeless individuals, elderly (62+), disabled individuals, and local residents will receive priority.
Process: Pre-applications are selected via a computerized lottery. Submission does not guarantee placement or eligibility for a voucher.
Applicants must provide names, birthdates, Social Security numbers, income details for all household members, and an email address. One pre-application per household per county is allowed; duplicates will be rejected.
Income Limits:
Eligibility depends on county-specific income limits. The below chart shows Morris Cunty income limits. Larger households can contact DCA at (609) 292-4080 for assistance.
Reasonable Accommodations:
Individuals with disabilities can request accommodations by calling (609) 292-4080 (Option 9) or emailing [email protected] during the enrollment period.
For more details, visit the SRAP portal or contact the Department of Community Affairs.
Garcia received $25,000 in cash while in the restroom of a New Jersey restaurant
FLORHAM PARK — A Newark business owner has admitted to bribing a former city official to secure assistance in acquiring and redeveloping Newark-owned properties, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Frank Valvano, Jr., 57, of Florham Park, pleaded guilty in Newark federal court before U.S. District Judge Madeline Cox Arleo to charges of honest services fraud and bribery.
“As he admitted in court, Frank Valvano, Jr. provided cash, jewelry, and other benefits to a public official in exchange for influence that furthered his private business interests, defrauding the people of Newark of their right to honest services from their officials. This conduct corrupted the official’s independent judgment and violated public trust for personal financial gain,” said U.S. Attorney Sellinger. “We remain committed to working with law enforcement partners to ensure the people of New Jersey are protected from corrupt officials and those who seek to bribe them.”
Details of the Scheme
Valvano admitted to bribing Carmelo Garcia, a former Newark deputy mayor, and director of the Department of Economic and Housing Development (DEHD), as well as executive vice president and chief real estate officer of the Newark Community Economic Development Corporation (NCEDC, now Invest Newark). In exchange for Garcia’s assistance with real estate matters, Valvano and others provided significant monetary payments and gifts from 2017 through April 2019. Garcia is also a former Hoboken Assemblyman.
According to court records, Valvano and his co-defendant, Irwin Sablosky, gave Garcia cash, and high-end jewelry, and paid for a Miami trip to secure Garcia’s influence. The bribes helped Valvano and Sablosky acquire Newark-owned properties and obtain redevelopment agreements (RDAs) while ensuring Garcia did not act against their interests. Law enforcement records, including text messages and phone logs, revealed extensive communication among the parties, with Garcia arranging to collect bribes. In one instance, Valvano and Sablosky provided Garcia $25,000 in cash in June 2018 through an intermediary.
Legal Penalties
The Travel Act charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, while the bribery charge carries a maximum of ten years. Each charge also carries a potential fine of $250,000 or twice the amount of pecuniary gain. Sentencing for Valvano is scheduled for April 16, 2025.
Co-Conspirators and Prior Guilty Pleas
Valvano was initially charged in October 2021 alongside Sablosky, 64, of Springfield, and Garcia, 49, of Hoboken. Garcia and Sablosky have both pleaded guilty to related charges and await sentencing. Garcia admitted to conspiracy to defraud the city and accepting bribes, while Sablosky pleaded guilty to conspiracy, honest services wire fraud, and bribery.
Investigative Efforts
The case was investigated by special agents from the FBI’s Newark Field Office, IRS-Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General. The investigation was credited by U.S. Attorney Sellinger to the efforts of these agencies, led by their respective leaders.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elaine K. Lou, Katherine J. Calle, and Edeli Rivera are prosecuting the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office Special Prosecutions Division.
Luxury meets tranquility: 40 Puddingstone Way, a stunning lakeside retreat in Florham Park, offering breathtaking views, elegant design, and the ultimate in waterfront living.
FLORHAM PARK — Nestled on the serene shores of Spring Garden Lake, 40 Puddingstone Way in Florham Park, has been sold for $1,390,000. Built-in 1982, this exquisite 5,540 sq. ft. two-story single-family residence embodies luxury and tranquility, offering five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and unparalleled lakefront living.
Located at the end of a private cul-de-sac, the 0.51-acre property boasts expansive lakefrontage, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy canoeing, fishing, or simply basking in the serene views. The level grass areas invite recreation, while mature foliage surrounds the home, enhancing its picturesque setting.
Inside, the gourmet kitchen, equipped with double appliances, flows seamlessly to a spacious deck—perfect for alfresco dining and entertaining. The first floor includes a generous bedroom suite, while the second floor features four additional bedrooms, including an extraordinary primary suite. The suite offers breathtaking panoramic lake views, a private deck, and a luxurious bath, creating a haven of comfort and elegance.
The lower-level walkout elevates the home’s appeal, featuring a second full kitchen, recreation rooms, and an inspiring office. This versatile space is an entertainer’s dream, providing endless possibilities for hosting and relaxation.
Listed by Anthony J. Verducci Jr. of Serhant New Jersey and purchased through Lisa Wang of Realmart Realty, this property is a testament to luxurious lakeside living. With an annual tax of $16,869.58, it promises its new owners a harmonious blend of style, comfort, and outdoor adventure.
