DeSales University Honors Janae Topor with Dean's List and Leadership Award
BOONTON TOWNSHIP — Janae Topor, a 2023 graduate of Lumen Gentium Academy, made the DeSales University Spring 2024 Dean’s List.
Topor is majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders.
In May 2024, DeSales University SGA awarded her the James F. Kilcur Class Leadership Award. This award is given to a first-year student, sophomore, junior, or senior who has exemplified outstanding leadership through academics and extracurricular activities and has been a positive role model for others during the academic year.
DeSales University, located in Center Valley, PA, is a private, coeducational, four-year liberal arts Salesian Catholic university led by the Oblates of Saint Francis de Sales. Founded in 1965, the 550-acre suburban campus is 50 miles north of Philadelphia and about 90 miles southwest of New York City.
The university enrolls nearly 3,500 students, including undergraduate day and evening students and graduate students. DeSales employs approximately 135 full-time faculty members and offers over 40 bachelor’s degrees, 12 graduate programs, and over 20 certificate programs across various disciplines, many of which can be completed online.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
MORRIS COUNTY — A tax preparer was sentenced to 57 months in prison for conspiring to obtain over $4.4 million by defrauding the IRS, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Omar Khater, 33, Fairfield, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti in Newark federal court on Jan. 23, 2024, to an information charging him with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to defraud the IRS. Khater’s conspirator, Walid Khater, 38, of Arizona, pleaded guilty on May 23 to an information charge him with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to defraud the IRS.
“Omar Khater has admitted his role in an elaborate scheme that used stolen personal identifying information and fabricated tax returns to bilk the IRS of millions of dollars. He and a relative submitted tax documents falsely claiming that the taxpayers listed on those documents had earned certain income or won thousands – and in some cases millions – of dollars in gambling and lottery winnings. Working with our law enforcement partners, we will root out these illegal and dangerous schemes, and those who perpetrate them can expect the same result as this defendant,” said U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger.
“Omar Khater used stolen identities to file fraudulent tax returns for illicit personal financial gain,” Jenifer L. Piovesan, Special Agent in Charge, IRS – Criminal Investigation, Newark Field Office, said. “He was caught and is now a convicted felon with a prison sentence to serve. IRS – Criminal Investigation will continue to vigorously investigate individuals who attempt to steal taxpayer money from the U.S. Treasury.”
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Omar and Walid Khater were relatives who worked together and with others to steal victims’ identities, which they used to file false tax returns and fraudulently receive tax refunds from the IRS. They electronically submitted tax documents to the IRS falsely claiming that the individual taxpayers listed on those documents had earned certain income or won thousands – and in some cases millions – of dollars in gambling and lottery winnings. The false filings also claimed tax withholdings on the purported income or gambling winnings that entitled the tax filer to refund payments from the IRS. The Khaters and others typically submitted these fraudulent tax filings using the victims’ names and personal identifying information without the victims’ knowledge or permission. The fraudulent filings caused the IRS to pay lucrative tax refunds, which the Khaters and others directed to various bank accounts they controlled. This scheme caused the U.S. Treasury to issue tax refunds of $4.49 million, which the Khaters and others diverted to bank accounts they controlled in New Jersey and elsewhere.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Martinotti sentenced Omar Khater to three years of supervised release and ordered restitution of $4.49 million.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Piovesan in Newark, and special agents of FBI-Newark, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Fatime Meka Cano of the Economic Crimes Unit and Katherine M. Romano of the Health Care Fraud Unit in Newark represent the government.
T-Mobile presented a $50,000 grant for the Trail. Endorsements for the project include Avenues in Motion, Donna Rendeiro from the State of New Jersey Department of State Business Action Center Office of Planning Advocacy, Denize Lanza from the Morris Park Alliance, the Dover Area Historical Society, and the Town of Dover.
DOVER — On Saturday, June 15 at 11:20 a.m., the Town of Dover, in partnership with grant sponsors T-Mobile and The Canal Society of New Jersey, will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil the Morris Canal Towpath.
In addition to the ribbon-cutting ceremony, The Town is hosting a free, family-friendly picnic at 100 Princeton Avenue (Waterworks Park). The event will serve summer favorites like hot dogs, hamburgers, and other refreshments at no cost to the public. The event includes a petting zoo and pony rides for the kids from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
This less-than-a-mile trail connects with The Morris Canal Greenway, envisioned as a 111-mile continuous pedestrian and bicycle trail linking six counties in northern New Jersey. Once completed, it will extend from the Delaware River on the west to the Hudson River on the east.
“Many greenway segments have already been completed, but much work remains to create a continuous trail,” said the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA). “In partnership with the Canal Society of New Jersey and the Morris Canal Working Group, we completed a study that presents a plan for a continuous greenway closely aligned with the historic canal route.” For more information, visit Morris Canal Greenway.
The town collaborated with Dover College Promise students, who used their class time to design the landscape of this historic trail. These highly engaged students inspired this grant application.
BOONTON — Aleksandra Kolesnikova is one of 21 O’Pake Fellows who graduated as members of Alvernia University’s Class of 2024 and presented a final project regarding the experiential learning opportunities and professional development gleaned from the O’Pake Fellows Program. The O’Pake Fellows Program provides undergraduate and graduate students with hands-on, distinctive experiential learning opportunities. Students of high academic standing from diverse majors and backgrounds work directly with regional entrepreneurs, small business owners, faculty researchers, and industry leaders.
In alignment with Alvernia’s core value of contemplation, O’Pake Graduate Assistant of Student Services Brianna Schnieder took the lead on facilitating the final reflection project with the guidance of Executive Director of Student & Client Services Michelle Conway, MBA, and Student Experiential Learning Specialist Max Horn, MBA.
“We often describe the fellow experience as a metamorphosis; this project aims to bring their experience full circle as fellows transition from one stage to the next,” said Schneider. “We hope they can recognize their impact on the community around them while also celebrating their own achievements, such as the skills and knowledge they leave the program with. Moving forward, this comprehensive project will help fellows track their impact on the businesses they work with since they might work with up to 40 businesses if they start as first-year students in the program.”
Graduating Fellows like Kolesnikova were able to present highlights and deliverables from their experience, including work they have done for local business owners in and beyond Berks and Schuylkill counties, the training they have engaged in, connections they have made through networking and skills they have built along the way for the resume.
“Being a part of the O’Pake Institute has shaped my professional career immensely,” said Graduate Assistant of Community Based Campuses, John (Jack) Cossa ’23 MBA ’24, when reflecting on his experience working with small businesses surrounding Alvernia’s Pottsville CollegeTowne. “I have had amazing opportunities throughout my time at O’Pake to be a part of high-level projects helping clients achieve their goals to elevate their business. Without O’Pake, I would not be the young, aspiring professional I am. The experiential learning you receive through O’Pake is the first class I recommend to any professional looking to enhance their professional experience.”
The O’Pake Fellows Program encourages students like Kolesnikova to engage in applied research, scholarly travel, and other personal and professional training activities to enhance their experience. Undergraduate Fellows can also work with up to 3-5 clients a semester and are exposed to projects that fulfill various needs of businesses in the community.
“Through the various clients I’ve worked with, I’ve loved learning about and collaborating with different kinds of personalities, businesses, and passions. It has allowed me to take note of the various challenges and approaches that exist in the media/marketing space and the importance of being strategic and adaptable.” After spending two years working with O’Pake, Maldonado also shares that incoming freshman to the O’Pake Institute should “always be open to new opportunities and challenges, as they will help you grow both personally and professionally.”
Alvernia University is a Catholic comprehensive university with a liberal arts foundation founded by the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters in 1958. The university serves over 3,000 students in Reading, Pottsville, and Philadelphia with a unique blend of rigorous liberal arts education, strong technical training in many high-demand majors, ever-expanding experiential learning opportunities through study abroad and internship experiences, and community engagement through its Franciscan-based community service model.
EAST HANOVER — The Morris County Mosquito Commission has announced that it will use an All-Terrain vehicle to treat a section of woods in East Hanover Township on Thursday morning.
According to the commission, the mosquito spraying will take place at Lurker Park (Ridgedale Avenue) from 4:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 13, weather permitting.
The commission will use Anvil 2+2, with the active ingredient Sumithrin, EPA#1021-1687-8329, or Zenivex E4, with the active ingredient Etofenprox, EPA#2724-807.
For more information, click here or call (973) 285-6450.
Mental Health, Employment, and Housing Focus at Morris County Veterans Event
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County recently welcomed veterans and service providers at the Morris County Veterans Services Office for a meeting hosted by the New Jersey SOS Veterans Stakeholders Group. The event aimed to foster networking and better understand veterans’ support needs across the region.
The meeting saw over 60 participants, including representatives from the offices of U.S. Rep. Tom Kean, U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, and the N.J. State Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Organizations such as Catholic Charities Diocese of Paterson, Veterans Affairs Healthcare, Welcome Home Vets of NJ, Morris Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill Industries of Greater New York & Northern New Jersey, Inc., and the Mental Health Association of NJ were also present.
“Supporting our veterans is crucial to honor their sacrifices and ensure their well-being,” said Commissioner John Krickus, a Marine Corps veteran. “While holidays often spotlight their service, we want our veterans to know that Morris County is here throughout the year providing essential services for their transition to civilian life, whether it be access to healthcare, employment opportunities, and training, or mental health support.”
Christine Hellyer, Director of the Office of Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming, and Jessica Tomalo, Program Coordinator for the Morris County Office of Veterans Services, updated county veterans services. In the past two years, Morris County has expanded its Veterans Services Office to include a fourth full-time Veterans Services Officer position, which is currently being recruited, and a seasonal intern who recently joined and participated in the event.
“In 2022, Morris County allocated $350,000 to veteran services, and last year contributed an additional $300,000 to address the growing demand for mental health, shelter placement, transportation services, meal assistance, counseling, legal services, and other veteran services currently being provided by the Morris County Human Services Department,” Krickus said.
A new federal Veteran Center Community Access Point (CAP) opened in May at the Morris County VSO at 540 West Hanover Avenue in Morris Township. Morris County volunteered to share and improve its county VSO space to host the VA CAP.
Two VA counselors from the federal Bloomfield Vet Center are available to provide services every Thursday by appointment. Veterans interested in these services should call the Bloomfield Vet Center at (973) 748-0980 to schedule an appointment.
Additionally, a veterans appreciation event is being planned for later this summer at a park in Morris County. Sign up for the Morris County weekly email newsletter for updates about this and other veteran events throughout the county.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
DOVER — On Monday, May 20, at approximately 1:57 a.m., Dover Police Officer Christopher Caraig was traveling east on West Blackwell Street when he encountered a vehicle in the westbound lane with high beams on, disrupting his vision.
Behind the vehicle was a taxi cab, flashing its high-beam headlights and signaling me. I stopped my patrol vehicle and spoke with the taxi driver, who stated that the vehicle in front of him was driving erratically and “drunk.” Officer Caraig turned his patrol vehicle around and followed the car.
The vehicle continued west on West Blackwell Street towards the intersection of Randolph Avenue. The vehicle slowly turned left onto Randolph Avenue and traveled south. While traveling south on Randolph Avenue, the vehicle failed to maintain its lane when entering the northbound lane.
The vehicle then turned right onto Spring Street, failing to maintain its travel lane by entering the eastbound lane. The vehicle turned left onto Elizabeth Street, continuing south. As the car began to park on the right near the curb, Officer Caraig activated the overhead emergency lights and conducted a traffic stop. Before the vehicle stopped, Officer Caraig observed the vehicle strike the curb.
Officer Caraig approached the passenger side of the vehicle. He met with the driver, Mr. Olman Mejia Flores, 19. He asked if I spoke Spanish, and I replied that I did not.
When Officer Caraig asked for his driver’s license, registration, and insurance card, he slowly handed me his NJ probationary driver’s license. Officer Caraig radioed Officer Kristopher Martinez for assistance in Spanish translation.
Officer Caraig then asked him to step out of the vehicle several times, but he stated he did not understand and slowly put on his seatbelt. While conversing with Mr. Mejia Flores, Officer Caraig observed his eyes as bloodshot, watery, and droopy. His speech was accented, incoherent, rambling, slobbering, slow and slurred. His demeanor was cooperative, polite, and calm. He had an occupant with him who was seated in the front passenger seat. His passenger was observed to have bloodshot, watery, and droopy eyes. His passenger was later identified as Mr. Elder Flores.
A series of field sobriety tests were performed. After the tests, Mr. Mejia Flores was advised and placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated. He was handcuffed behind his back and placed into the patrol vehicle.
Officer Caraig administered the alcotest to Mr. Mejia Flores, and Officer Martinez assisted in translating the instructions. He provided two sufficient breath samples. The alcotest results indicated that Mr. Mejia Flores had a BAC of 0.13%.
Mr. Mejia Flores was issued the following traffic summonses: •Driving while intoxicated •Careless driving (39:4-97) •Probationary driver violating hours of operation (39:3-13.8) •Failure to notify DMV of address change (39:3-36) •Failure to maintain traffic lane (39-4-88) •Improper use of high headlight beams (39:3-60)
He was driving a 2009 Black Honda, which Bunky’s Towing towed from the scene.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, this Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Tri-County Fair at 140 Green Pond Road in Rockaway will occur from Thursday, June 13, to Sunday, June 16. Now in its 10th incredible year, this annual family festival is packed with new attractions, excitement, and entertainment for all ages.
One of the main highlights of the Tri-County Fair is its array of carnival rides and games, offering something for everyone. From thrilling rides to classic games, visitors of all ages will find plenty to enjoy. Pay one price and ride all day on Thursday and Sunday.
On Friday, June 15, at around 9:15 p.m., the fair will light up the sky with a spectacular fireworks display. In addition to the fireworks, the fair features several live performances, including the “Extreme Illusions and Escapes” magic show, providing captivating entertainment for all.
The Tri-County Fair is designed with families in mind. It offers a variety of activities for children, such as pony rides, face painting, and carnival games. Food lovers can indulge in classic carnival treats like funnel cakes and cotton candy, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious snack while exploring the fair. Monster truck rides all four days!
The car show is free for spectators, making it a fantastic addition to the fair experience.
The fair will host a classic and custom car show on Saturday, June 15, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bring Dad on Sunday, June 16, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for a picture with the Batmobile.
Car enthusiasts can admire beautifully restored vehicles and see categories like Best in Show, Best Paint, Best Interior, Best Engine, and more. The car show is free for spectators, making it a fantastic addition to the fair experience.
Visitors look forward to the thrill of axe throwing at the upcoming Tri-County Fair.
The fair offers drone piloting and axe throwing for those seeking more adventure. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these attractions promise a barrel of fun and excitement.
Admission to the Tri-County Fair is free, ensuring accessibility for everyone. Ride tickets and wristbands can be purchased at the gate or in advance at discounted prices.
The fair hours are Thursday 6-11 p.m., Friday 5-11 p.m., Saturday 2-11 p.m., and Sunday 1-7 p.m., giving you plenty of time to enjoy all the attractions.
Click here to visit their website for more information about the Tri-County Fair, including schedules and ticket rates.
This event promises to be a fantastic outing for all family members!
MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) is thrilled to announce it has been awarded a $650,000 Advanced Technology Education (ATE) grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The grant, distributed over three years, will support the college’s expansion of its current nationally recognized Data Science program and aid in the establishment of a new, cutting-edge Data Science Institute. This initiative aligns with the college’s commitment to innovation, academic excellence and meeting the evolving needs of the community and industry.
Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, president of CCM, expressed gratitude to NSF for the generous grant and emphasized its significance in advancing the college’s mission. “Not only will this grant enable us to expand Data Science at CCM,” said Iacono, “but also help create the Data Science Institute and strive to meet our goals from the training of faculty with industry certification to creating a seamless career pathway in data science for students of all ages.”
Key Benefits
CCM provides an opportunity for students to gain an early interest in the data science field with a fast-track approach toward employment. The college’s Center for Workforce Development offers cutting-edge courses in Business Analytics, Tableau, R-Programming and more to accelerate one’s career as a data scientist. Students can enroll at CCM to quickly earn the 16-credit certificate of achievement in data analytics in less than one year and even further their studies at CCM towards an associate of science degree in computer science with a concentration in data science.
The ATE grant will support teachers to ensure they attain industry-recognized certifications and are equipped with the latest tools and knowledge in data science to deliver excellent instruction. Students may gain training and specialized workshops on data manipulation, statistical analysis, machine learning, data visualization and more, on campus and in virtual format. Guest lecturers, industry visits and networking events will also showcase real-world applications of data science and help funnel students to industry.
Most recently, the college’s Data Science program has participated in the New Jersey Council of County Colleges (NJCCC) Pathways Initiative that includes the New Jersey Big Data Alliance (NJBDA) – Data Science Articulation Project. This project establishes seamless transfer pathways from several two-year to four-year institutions across New Jersey, including CCM.
According to Iacono, “CCM will continue to be a leader in education and data science plus play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and technological advancement in the region.”
“This grant truly represents a significant milestone for the college,” said CCM Professor of Mathematics Kelly Fitzpatrick. “We are excited to embark on this journey of expansion and innovation, and we are confident that the resources provided by this grant will empower our faculty and students, including underrepresented groups and Women in STEM, to excel in the dynamic field of data science.”
CCM’s success in Data Science has been highlighted and publicized nationally.
The New Jersey Business and Industry Association (NJBIA) featured this project on the March 23 episode of Minding Your Business, where Fitzpatrick spoke about its success.
NSF featured the college’s courses, transfer agreements, and pathways in Data Science on page 91 of its annual publication, ATE Impacts.
CCM is a renowned institution of higher learning known for its commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement. For more information about CCM or media inquiries, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Melissa Albright, Vice President of Marketing, Public Relations & Enrollment Management, email: [email protected], or call (973) 328-5171.
Sophia Durantino of Whippany graduated from Mount St. Dominic Academy marking the culmination of her high school journey with a memorable and inspiring ceremony. Photo by Pushparaj Aitwal
HANOVER — The Athletic Center at Mount St. Dominic Academy was packed on Sunday, June 2, when 60 young women called the Mount home graduated. It was a beautiful ceremony, with Vincia Jackson, MSDA Class of 2010, as the Commencement Speaker.
Class Salutatorian Adrianna Cacciacarne of Randolph opened the Mount Saint Dominic Academy graduation ceremony with a heartfelt prayer, expressing gratitude for the journey, knowledge, friendships, and memories formed over the past four years. She prayed for guidance in future endeavors and emphasized the importance of Dominican values learned at the academy. She acknowledged the significant influence of family, teachers, and mentors, thanking them for their support and inspiration. She encouraged the graduates to pursue excellence, carry their dedication forward, and be positive forces in the world. The prayer concluded with a blessing for bright futures and a call for God’s continued guidance and light.
Sophia Durantino
Reflecting on her experiences at the Mount, Miss Jackson shared how they have profoundly shaped her life. Her message to the graduates was clear and powerful: “Keep the main thing the main thing,” a personal mantra encouraging focus and grounding in what truly matters—your goals and dreams. She urged the graduates to be the one voice that asks the questions everyone else is too afraid to voice, to embrace uncertainty, and to stand firm in advocating for respect.
Miss Jackson emphasized the importance of intentionally seeking out diverse perspectives and embracing the beauty of diversity while cherishing the bonds with those who share your background. She urged the graduates to create their own opportunities, reminding them that success is personal and unique to each individual. “Don’t compare yourself to others. Engineer the life you desire and remember who you are. The future is truly yours,” she declared.
Her words were a testament to the values of MSDA and an inspiration for the graduates to carry forward as they embark on their next chapter.
Miss Jackson’s impressive career has included roles with The Clorox Company, Hormel Foods, General Mills, PepsiCo, and Sonoco Products. She is currently a senior operations manager at Amazon. Her journey began with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering, complemented by minors in Environmental Policy and Studies and Business. She excelled as a NCAA Division 1 collegiate runner alongside her academic pursuits.
MSDA Valedictorian Erin Arenata of West Orange delivered a heartfelt graduation speech emphasizing the importance of memories and connections made throughout her high school journey. She shared how sentimental keepsakes in a senior year memories box she created symbolized cherished moments and relationships, particularly with the “little sister” she was assigned to as a junior. She reflected on the growth and resilience of the class, highlighting shared experiences from volleyball games to musical performances and retreats. Concluding with gratitude and pride, she celebrated the bonds formed and expressed excitement for the future impacts her classmates will make as alumnae.
The MSDA graduation ceremony poignantly reminded us of the values and education instilled in each student at Mount St. Dominic Academy. The graduates left with words of wisdom, encouragement, and inspiration, ready to embark on the next chapter of their lives with confidence and a strong sense of purpose.
With a curriculum that sparks curiosity, bridging tradition with academic rigor and faith with intellectual exploration, the young women of the Mount build a foundation of independent inquiry and critical thinking that serves them well in college, careers, and beyond. Boasting a 100% college acceptance rate at leading colleges and universities, Mount St. Dominic Academy’s Class of 2024 has earned a collective $13+ million in college scholarships and grants and acceptance into 119 colleges. Mount graduates are empowered young women – justice seekers, changemakers, and empathetic leaders, with the skills needed to make the world a better place and the desire to do so.
Mount St. Dominic Academy, established by the Sisters of St. Dominic, is an independent Catholic college preparatory school dedicated to the education of young women from a variety of ethnic, religious, and economic backgrounds. Located in the heart of bucolic Caldwell, New Jersey, the Mount has empowered young women in the Dominican tradition since 1892. Mount St. Dominic Academy is a proud member of the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools, the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), the International Coalition of Girls Schools, the Dominican Association of Secondary Schools, the National Catholic Educational Association, and the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association. Click here for more information.
