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Morris County Launches Website to Commemorate America’s 250th Anniversary

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County’s historical impact extends far beyond the Revolution, offering a diverse array of sites like Historic Speedwell, where the telegraph was born, and the remarkable Morris Canal.

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Tourism Bureau, Morris County 250th Anniversary Steering Committee, and Morris County Board of County Commissioners launched their 250th Anniversary website by clicking here.

This new platform, designed by Kraus Marketing of Morristown in collaboration with the Morris County 250th Anniversary Steering Committee, will serve as the central hub for all events, updates, educational resources, and community engagement opportunities tied to Morris County’s commemoration of America’s 250th birthday.

“The 250th Anniversary celebration is a historic event that holds deep significance for Morris County. As a pivotal region during the American Revolution, Morris County’s contributions to our nation’s founding will be honored through year-round programming, public involvement, and events that bring history to life,” said Commissioner Christine Myers.

The 250th anniversary, or “Semiquincentennial,” marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. More Revolutionary War battles and encampments occurred in New Jersey than in any other colony. Morris County hosted many key figures from the era and preserved numerous historic sites that will be the focus of public events in 2025 and 2026.

Morris County’s 250th website will keep residents, educators, and visitors informed with regularly updated details on upcoming events, volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, historical content, and ways to participate and donate.

“Whether you’re a lifelong history buff or simply looking to engage with your community, the site is designed to connect everyone with this once-in-a-generation celebration,” said Deputy Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw.

Last year, the Morris County Board of County Commissioners committed $100,000 to the Morris County Economic Development Alliance (MCEDAlliance) and the Morris County Tourism Bureau to coordinate 250th anniversary celebrations. The Commissioners committed another $100,000 to the effort this year.

“As we welcome visitors to experience history where it happened, we look forward to having them discover and explore our vibrant communities and visit our local businesses across Morris County,” said Meghan Hunscher, President & CEO, Morris County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation.

This website was made possible by the financial commitment of the Board of Commissioners as well as by the support of dedicated planning partners, representing the:
● County of Morris
● Morris County Tourism Bureau
● Morris County Chamber of Commerce
● Morris County Economic Development Corporation
● Morris County Board of County Commissioners
● Morris County Historical Society
● Morris County Library
● Morris County Heritage Commission
● Morris County Vocational School District
● County College of Morris
● Morris County Park Commission

The Morris County Tourism Bureau works to promote and preserve Morris County as a top destination for heritage, tourism, recreation, arts, and cultural experiences. By showcasing the county’s rich historical assets—including those from the Revolutionary War era—the Bureau plays a key role in connecting visitors and residents with the stories, sites, and celebrations that make Morris County unique. To learn more and get involved, click here.

Jersey City Man Sentenced in Connection with Stolen Vehicle Pursuit

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Montville Police Chief Andrew Caggiano confirmed the sentencing of Nasir Moses, 20, of Jersey City, in connection with a stolen vehicle pursuit that took place in Montville.

On March 17, 2025, Moses pled guilty to one count of Eluding, a second-degree offense, and receiving stolen property, a third-degree offense. On April 25, 2025, the Honorable Robert Hanna imposed a sentence of five years in New Jersey State Prison on the Eluding offense to run concurrently to three years in New Jersey State Prison on the receiving stolen property offense.

On July 9, 2023, a Lincoln Park Police officer observed a suspected stolen BMW on Route 202 and attempted to commence a motor vehicle stop in Montville. The BMW accelerated more than ninety miles per hour, and a police pursuit ensued. Ultimately, the BMW spun out while on Route 287 North, and all five occupants fled the vehicle, hopped over the highway median, ran across traffic lanes, and fled into the woods. Following a foot pursuit, four of the five individuals were detained. The fifth individual, Moses, escaped.

The BMW was reported stolen out of New York. Numerous items of stolen property were located within the stolen vehicle. Subsequent investigation identified Moses as the driver of the stolen vehicle. Moses was charged and transferred to Morris County Correctional Facility in September 2024 after being arrested on an unrelated matter in Bergen County.

Diyana Graham, 21, of Newark, was arrested at the scene, and Nashawn Holmes, 18, of Newark, was also arrested. Graham pled guilty to one count of fourth-degree Resisting Arrest and was sentenced by Judge Claudia Jones on October 6, 2023, to 60 days of jail credit, 18 months of probation, and 50 community service hours. Holmes pled guilty to one count of third-degree Receiving Stolen Property and was sentenced by Judge Jones on December 15, 2023, to 10 days of jail credit, 18 months of probation, and 50 hours of community service.

Two occupants were juveniles, each charged with Unlawful Taking of a Means of Conveyance, RSO, Resisting Arrest by Flight, and Conspiracy to Receive Stolen Property. They will not be identified.

Prosecutor Carroll would like to acknowledge the Montville Police Department, the Lincoln Park Police Department, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Operations Division, specifically former MCPO Det. Joseph Ellis, for their efforts in this successful prosecution. Assistant Prosecutor Matthew W. Kelly handled this prosecution.

Pennacchio Joins Dr. Phil Primetime to Discuss Remote Work Legislation

By
Frank Cahill
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The battle over returning to the office is heating up. In this episode of Primetime, Dr. Phil breaks down the clash between employees demanding flexibility and employers demanding oversight. From Gen Z job fears to federal mandates, is the future of work remote—or on-site?

MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) appeared on Dr. Phil Primetime yesterday to discuss his legislation, S-4057, requiring state employees to return to the office.

During the appearance, Senator Pennacchio emphasized ongoing inefficiencies in how state agencies have addressed constituent concerns since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. He underscored the need to restore accountability and enhance the delivery of public services paid for by New Jersey taxpayers.

“Dealing with taxpayer money, I have a fiduciary responsibility that work is done promptly, and that it’s done to the best efforts that they can for the taxpayers of the State of New Jersey,” said Sen. Pennacchio during the interview.

Senator Pennacchio stressed the importance of prioritizing family and maintaining a healthy work-life balance— while ensuring that State employees remain engaged and contribute meaningfully during the workday.

“While you’re spending time in employment, I think the employer has a right to an honest day’s work for an honest day’s wage,” said Sen. Pennacchio.

Political Dispute Turns Criminal: Morris Plains Man Admits Threats

By
Frank Cahill
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Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

MORRIS COUNTY — A Morris Plains man has pleaded guilty to transmitting interstate death threats against a political commentator, federal officials announced.

Haim Braverman, 47, appeared before U.S. District Court Judge Evelyn Padin in Newark federal court, where he entered a guilty plea to an Information charging him with one count of transmitting threats in interstate commerce. His sentencing is scheduled for Monday, September 15, 2025.

According to court documents and statements made during the proceeding, the charges stem from a video Braverman posted on or about Tuesday, September 10, 2024, in which he made graphic and violent threats toward a political commentator. In the video, Braverman is seen holding a metal bat and expressing rage over the commentator’s public remarks about a prominent rabbi whom Braverman revered.

“You’ll get what’s coming to you,” Braverman said in the video. “If I could f**king kill you right now, I would… I’ll give you the steel bat. I wouldn’t even stop. I’d kill you. Dead.”

He further intensified his threats by posting a written comment that stated: “[The commentator] needs to be killed.” In addition to the video, Braverman transmitted an audio message through a group chat, saying, “After I heard what [the commentator] said, I will go to prison, gladly find her and kill her… I will find a fking weapon and fking kill her.”

U.S. Attorney Alina Habba credited special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, under Sheriff James Gannon, with the investigation that led to Braverman’s arrest and plea.

Braverman now faces sentencing that could result in significant prison time. The federal charge of transmitting threats in interstate commerce carries a statutory maximum of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

Dover Launches 2024 Summer Recreation Program for Ages 5–12

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

DOVER — The Town of Dover is gearing up for a summer of fun, learning, and adventure as Mayor James P. Dodd and the Town Council officially announced the return of the Dover Recreation Summer Program for children ages 5 through 12.

Running from June 23 through August 8, the full-day program promises engaging activities, themed events, and optional bus trips for local youth. Hosted weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the initiative keeps children active, safe, and socially engaged while school is out.

For Dover families who register early, a discounted Early Bird Special is available at $600 per child through May 31. After that date, standard fees rise to $650 per child for residents and $800 per child for out-of-town participants. Discounts are also offered for siblings.

“We’re thrilled to once again offer a high-quality, affordable program for working families,” said Mayor James P. Dodd. “It’s more than just childcare—it’s a summer filled with growth, creativity, and memories.”

The program will include field trips for an additional fee and offers limited seating. Parents can also take advantage of early drop-off and late pick-up options for an added cost, making the program especially accessible for working parents.

Registration is now open through Community Pass, by clicking here, for easy mobile sign-up. For additional questions, residents may call (973) 366-2200 ext. 8014 or email [email protected].

With a strong tradition of community-focused recreation, Dover invests in youth programs that enrich the lives of its youngest residents each summer.

Whippanong Library Hosts Stock Car Racing Night

By
Frank Cahill
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WHIPPANY — Stock car racing fans are in for a treat! The Whippanong Library will host Stock Car Racing Night on Thursday, May 8, at 6:00 p.m. This special event celebrates the deep-rooted history of racing in Whippany and Cedar Knolls, from dirt car ovals to NASCAR.

Peter Resotka, an avid racing enthusiast, will share decades of racing memories through photos and stories dating back to the 1950s. Known for his passion and knowledge of the sport, Resotka will also introduce his fictional novel, Win at All Costs, which will be available for purchase and signing during the event.

The evening will include:

  • Raffles and giveaways
  • A special drawing for those who purchase a book
  • Possible surprise appearances from guest race drivers

Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Interested attendees can register online by clicking here.

The Whippanong Library is at 1000 Route 10, Whippany. For more information, call (973) 428-2460 or visit www.whippanong.org.

Hanover Township Police to Host American Red Cross Blood Drive

By
Frank Cahill
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HANOVER — The Hanover Township Police Department is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a community blood drive on Friday, May 16, at the Hanover Township Community Center at 15 North Jefferson Road, Hanover. The drive will run from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is open to all eligible donors.

The need for blood is constant, and each donation can help save multiple lives. As an added incentive, the American Red Cross will give individuals who donate blood between May 1 and May 18 a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice.

Appointments are encouraged and can be scheduled by scanning the QR code provided in the flyer or by visiting RedCrossBlood.org and entering HanoverTownship as the sponsor code. For additional assistance, donors may call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Help make a difference—give blood, save lives, and support your local community.

New Jersey Launches ‘REAL ID Tuesdays’ to Boost Enrollment

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Governor Phil Murphy and NJMVC Acting Chief Administrator Latrecia Littles-Floyd announce “REAL ID Tuesdays” to expand access to REAL ID appointments

MORRIS COUNTY — To accelerate the rollout of federally compliant REAL ID driver licenses, Governor Phil Murphy and New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) Acting Chief Administrator Latrecia Littles-Floyd announced the launch of “REAL ID Tuesdays” — a new initiative to offer additional appointments at MVC licensing centers every other Tuesday, beginning May 20.

The program comes as the federal government prepares to enforce the REAL ID requirement starting May 7. Individuals will need a REAL ID-compliant license or another form of federally approved identification—such as a U.S. passport—to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities.

To help meet the increased demand, the NJMVC will add approximately 5,200 new appointments every two weeks. Beginning May 5, these appointment slots will be available for booking through the MVC’s online scheduler.

“REAL ID Tuesdays” is part of the state’s push to meet federal compliance standards. According to a recent CBS News analysis, New Jersey ranks last among all 50 states in terms of REAL ID adoption, with only 17% of residents having obtained one. Officials believe the state’s high rate of passport holders—79% of residents currently hold a valid U.S. passport, the highest percentage in the nation—may explain the slower adoption of REAL ID licenses.

The cost to upgrade a standard license to a REAL ID is $35.00, compared to the regular $24 fee. The upgrade can be made at the time of renewal, and the license’s expiration date does not change.

William Connolly, spokesperson for NJMVC, noted, “The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission has been working non-stop to help as many eligible New Jerseyans as possible obtain a REAL ID. We issue about 23,000 REAL IDs weekly and remain focused on ensuring access and efficiency.”

To obtain a REAL ID, individuals must make an appointment at a licensing center and bring the following:

  • Proof of Identity: U.S. birth certificate, passport, or Certificate of Naturalization
  • Proof of Social Security: Social security card, recent W-2, or pay stub with full name and SSN
  • Proof of Residency (2 documents): Valid NJ license/ID, recent utility bill, credit card bill, or IRS correspondence
  • 6 Points of ID: Standard MVC identity verification documentation

The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005 following recommendations from the 9/11 Commission Report, was designed to enhance the security of state-issued identification documents.

New Jersey residents are encouraged to schedule appointments early, as demand is expected to increase significantly before the May 7 enforcement date. Click here for full details and to book your appointment.

New Industrial Development Brings Jobs and Infrastructure to Morris Plains

By
Frank Cahill
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Two state-of-the-art industrial buildings stand ready at Lincoln Logistics Morris Plains, offering a combined 495,000 square feet of premium warehouse and distribution space on the former Johnson & Johnson campus.

MORRIS PLAINS — Lincoln Equities Group (LEG) has officially unveiled Lincoln Logistics Morris Plains, a 495,000-square-foot modern industrial park at 201 Tabor Road. The two-building development brings new life to a former Johnson & Johnson office campus near Route 10 and just miles from key interstate highways.

The project features two Class A industrial facilities measuring 224,750 and 270,000 square feet. Both buildings boast 40-foot clear ceiling heights, two drive-in doors, 35 dock doors, 54-by-50-foot column spacing, and multiple points of ingress and egress. The site also includes modern sprinkler systems, a high-capacity on-site electrical substation with dual feeds, and parking for 499 cars and 72 trailers.

Lincoln Equities Group CEO Lance Bergstein said the vision behind the project was to deliver a next-generation industrial hub. “Our vision for Lincoln Logistics Morris Plains was to deliver a state-of-the-art industrial park that will set a new standard for design, efficiency, and connectivity in the region,” Bergstein noted. “With its strategic location and best-in-class infrastructure, this project is well-positioned to support the evolving needs of a wide range of users across e-commerce, manufacturing, and logistics.”

The site is just three miles from Interstate 287, five and a half miles from Interstate 80, and eight miles from Interstate 280. Additionally, tenants will benefit from proximity to Newark Liberty International Airport and Port Newark-Elizabeth, about 30 miles away, as well as 35 miles from New York City and the George Washington Bridge.

CBRE’s Thomas F. Monahan, Larry Schiffenhaus, Brian Golden, Andrew Gunst, and Evan Bernard are leading the leasing effort.

“We’re seeing significant demand for modern, scalable industrial space in the tristate area, and Lincoln Logistics Morris Plains delivers exactly what today’s users are looking for,” said Monahan, vice chairman with CBRE. “With its exceptional power capabilities, superior design, and proximity to key transportation routes, this development checks all the boxes for top-tier industrial users.”

Hanover Man Allegedly Solicited Explicit Photos from 9-Year-Old in North Carolina

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Morris County Prosecutor

HANOVER — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Hanover Township Police Chief Michael Loock confirmed that Brian J. Cariddi, 39, of Hanover Township, has been charged in connection with multiple online communications allegedly made with a child located in North Carolina between December 11, 2022, and January 10, 2023.

Defendant is alleged to have engaged in sexually explicit conversations with the male child victim (age 9), to have exposed his intimate parts during online discussions, and asked the child victim to send images of the child’s intimate parts. The incident remains under investigation, and no further information will be released. The name and identity of the victim will not be released.

As a result of the investigation, the defendant was arrested on March 8, 2024 and charged with one count of second degree Attempted Endangering the Welfare of a Child – Production of CSAM in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1a(3)/2C:24-4b(3), one count of third degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child – Sexual Conduct in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4a, and one count of fourth degree Lewdness in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-4b(1).

Pursuant to the Criminal Justice Reform Act, the Defendant has been detained in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending future court proceedings.

Numerous law enforcement agencies, including members of the Hanover Township Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, have participated in this investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force of the Sex Crimes / Child Endangerment Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at 973-285-6200.

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.

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.

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Morris Focus was founded in 2017 and is published in print and online formats. Its mission is to provide timely and accurate news coverage to Morris County residents and promote community engagement and involvement. The newspaper covers various topics, including local government, education, business, and sports. We can be reached by calling (973) 559-6000—a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce.

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