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.
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 — 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.
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.
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 — 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.
BOONTON — The Rockaway Valley Garden Club will hold its highly anticipated annual Plant Sale on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon, rain or shine. This year, the event will be held at a new location—Boonton United Methodist Church, located at 626 Lathrop Avenue, Boonton.
Known for its impressive variety and commitment to native landscaping, the Plant Sale will feature a wide selection of native plants, deer-resistant options, hardy perennials, and vegetable and herb seedlings. These plants are carefully chosen to thrive in northern New Jersey’s unique environment, offering gardeners and homeowners reliable, sustainable options for their landscapes.
“We pride ourselves on offering a large selection of native perennials that will thrive in northern New Jersey landscapes,” the club shared in a statement.
Shoppers can conveniently pay by cash, check, or Venmo.
The Rockaway Valley Garden Club invites residents from Boonton, Parsippany, and surrounding communities to come early for the best selection. Proceeds from the sale support the club’s ongoing community beautification projects and educational initiatives.
For more information and a complete list of available plants, click here.
Richardson History House - the Mount Tabor Historical Society, Mount Tabor, New Jersey
MORRIS COUNTY — The Pathways of History Tour will return for its 16th year on May 3 and 4, 2025, inviting residents and visitors to explore 30 historic sites across Morris County.
Richardson History House – the Mount Tabor Historical Society, Mount Tabor, New Jersey
This free, family-friendly event provides a unique opportunity to experience the region’s rich heritage through museums, preserved landmarks, and special exhibits. Organized by the Morris County Historical Society in collaboration with local history organizations, the tour spans 22 municipalities and showcases the dedication of volunteer historians. Participating locations include the Butler Museum, Martin-Berry House, Bridget Smith House Museum, and many others, allowing visitors to explore one-of-a-kind collections while learning about the people and events that shaped Morris County’s past.
The tour will feature two designated trails — Red and Blue — to help visitors navigate the county’s sites more efficiently, in addition to providing detailed insights into the historical significance of each location. Visitors can check PathwaysofHistoryNJ.net for up-to-date information on the event to ensure an enriching and enjoyable experience.
“The Pathways of History Tour is a celebration of our shared heritage, brought to life by the tireless efforts of our volunteer-driven organizations,” said Amy Curry, Executive Director of the Morris County Historical Society. “This year’s tour, with a record 30 sites, offers an unparalleled opportunity for families, students, and history lovers to connect with the stories that define our community. We invite everyone to join us for a weekend of discovery and inspiration.”
“As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence, there is no better time to explore the rich history that helped shape our country. Morris County played a critical role in the American Revolution, and the Pathways of History Tour offers an amazing opportunity to visit the historical sites that bring those stories to life. We encourage everyone to take advantage of this free, educational weekend to connect with the past and look ahead to celebrating this milestone anniversary!” said Morris County Commissioner Christine Myers.
“Many of the sites have also been preserved through our Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund,” she added.
The Pathways of History Tour began 16 years ago as a collaborative effort by five local historical societies intent on highlighting their distinctive museums and resources. Today, the event has expanded to include 30 non-profit organizations and historic sites, all united by a mission to preserve and share the county’s historical resources. Each site operates on a volunteer basis, offering free admission and a warm welcome to visitors of all ages. The growth of the tour reflects the community’s ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing Morris County’s heritage.
This spring, explore the region’s smallest historical organizations and the significant sites they interpret — from Revolutionary War landmarks to 19th-century industrial sites, schoolhouses and historic homes. The tour offers a variety of hands-on activities for families, educational opportunities for students, and hidden gems for curious visitors.
Businesses and individuals can support the preservation of these sites through sponsorship opportunities available on Eventbrite. Contributions help ensure that Morris County’s historic venues remain accessible for generations to come. To learn more and sign up, click here.
For more information, to plan your visit or to explore sponsorship opportunities, visit the official Pathways of History website at pathwaysofhistorynj.net.
The Morris County Historical Society thanks the following sponsors and partners: FM Kirby Foundation, County of Morris, Highlands Council, Morristown Municipal Airport, The American Friends of Lafayette, Friends of Jockey Hollow, Porzio, Bromberg & Newman, P.C., Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, Atlantic Health Systems, Paul Miller Auto Group, Hennion & Walsh, Ryan Dawson of Weichert Realtors, First Bank, The Roxbury Public Library, The Schlosser Family, Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms, Daughters of the American Revolution, The Schuyler-Hamilton House, PSE&G, Hyatt Regency of Morristown, Morris County Park Alliance, 40 North, Morris County Tourism Bureau, Morris County 250th Committee, Kraus Marketing, New Jersey Small Business Development Center at FDU, First Night Morris County / FNM365, Christina Tullo, New Jersey Historical Commission, New Jersey Historic Trust, Morris County Historic Preservation Trust, Morris County Heritage Commission, RevNJ, and Crossroads of the American Revolution.
About the Morris County Historical Society
The Morris County Historical Society is a member-supported 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the region’s history through education, advocacy, and community engagement. Their efforts ensure that Morris County’s historic sites remain vibrant, accessible and inspiring for future generations.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Roxbury Police Chief Matthew Holland confirmed that Alexander Serrano, 33, of East Rutherford, has been charged in connection with a single-vehicle crash that occurred in Roxbury Township on April 28, 2025.
At approximately 5:30 a.m. on April 28, law enforcement responded to a motor vehicle collision scene on Howard Boulevard at the Ledgewood Road / Mt. Arlington Road intersection. A 2003 Chevy Express van was found crashed into a tree with heavy damage.
The front passenger of the Chevy van was pronounced deceased at the scene. The passenger has been identified as Esmeralda Melchar, age 30, of East Rutherford.
Serrano, the driver of the van, exhibited signs of being under the influence at the scene. He was transported to Morristown Medical Center for treatment and later to the Morris County Correctional Facility.
Serrano has been subsequently charged with one count of second-degree Vehicular Homicide, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5A.
Pursuant to the Criminal Justice Reform Act, Serrano was released from custody on a series of non-monetary bail conditions including Pretrial Monitoring (Level III), surrender of his driver’s license and passport, and refraining from excessive use of alcohol. The next scheduled court appearance will be a Pre-Indictment Conference on June 9, before the Hon. Robert Hanna, J.S.C.
Members of the New Jersey State Police, Roxbury Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit participated in this investigation.
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.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert M. McNally, and Morristown Chief of Police Darnell Richardson confirmed the sentencing of Alexander Masariego-Flores, 45, formerly of Morristown.
On December 6, 2024, following a three-day trial, a Morris County petit jury convicted the defendant of three counts of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault, two counts of second-degree Sexual Assault, and two counts of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
On April 25, 2025, the Honorable Claudia R. Jones, J.S.C. imposed a sentence of 46 years in New Jersey State Prison, subject to the provisions of the No Early Release Act, which makes the defendant ineligible for parole until he has served 85% of the sentence imposed. Upon release from New Jersey State Prison, the defendant must register under Megan’s Law and comply with the Special Sentence of Parole Supervision for Life. The defendant is prohibited from contact with the victim and the victim’s family.
The conviction arises from the defendant’s sexual abuse of an eight-year-old child between February and September 2023. On September 16, 2023, the Morristown Police Department received a referral regarding the sexual abuse of a child. Thereafter, members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit and the Morristown Police Department investigated the referral. The investigation revealed that the defendant sexually abused the child on multiple occasions between February and September 2023 at a home in Morristown, and that he sexually abused the child on one occasion in front of another child.
“I would like to thank and acknowledge the agencies that participated in the investigation leading to this successful prosecution, including the Morristown Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Department, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit. I also extend my gratitude to Deirdre’s House and the Morris County Multidisciplinary Team for their invaluable efforts. Additionally, I commend the outstanding work of the trial team — Assistant Prosecutor Alyssa DiSturco, Assistant Prosecutor Tina DiFranco, and Detective Raquelin Perea,” said Prosecutor Carroll.
