Kaylee Hughen of Lake Hopatcong Named to SUNY Cortland Fall 2025 Dean’s List
LAKE HOPATCONG — SUNY Cortland has announced its Fall 2025 Dean’s List, recognizing students who achieved academic excellence during the semester. Among those honored was Kaylee Hughen of Lake Hopatcong, who earned Dean’s List recognition for her studies in Biology.
The Dean’s List represents the highest academic distinction for undergraduate students at SUNY Cortland. To qualify, students must earn a minimum 3.3 grade point average for the semester. Each of the university’s three schools—the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Professional Studies, and the School of Education—publishes its own Dean’s List.
Hughen’s achievement reflects her dedication, strong work ethic, and commitment to academic success. SUNY Cortland is widely regarded as one of New York’s top public universities, offering nearly 70 undergraduate majors and a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and student engagement.
Located in central New York, SUNY Cortland has been providing high-quality education since 1868, preparing students to turn academic achievement into meaningful careers. Hughen’s recognition brings pride to the Lake Hopatcong community and highlights the accomplishments of local students pursuing higher education.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson Township Emergency Preparedness Handbook provides residents with clear, practical guidance on how to prepare for emergencies before they occur. Created by the Township’s Office of Emergency Management, the guide stresses the importance of personal readiness, noting that emergency services can be overwhelmed during major incidents.
It outlines how to build an emergency supply kit, protect important documents, and stay informed through emergency alerts.
The handbook also covers sheltering in place, evacuations, severe weather, power outages, pandemics, and planning for pets and residents with special needs.
Overall, it encourages residents to be proactive, informed, and prepared to protect their families and community.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Morristown Police Chief Darnell Richardson confirmed that Noah Shaffer, 26, of Paterson, has been charged in connection with an armed robbery of an unidentified New York Jets player that occurred in Morristown on February 15, 2025.
On February 15, 2025, at approximately 8:00 a.m., the Morristown Police responded to a residence for a report of an armed robbery. The victim stated he and his acquaintances returned from New York City when a vehicle blocked them into the driveway. Four masked men exited the vehicle, a Volkswagen Taos with fictious license plates, each carrying a handgun, and approached the victim and his driver. The suspects pointed handguns at the victim, and took his watch and wallet. The suspects took cash from the driver. The four suspects reentered the Taos and fled the scene. The investigation later revealed, through electronic evidence, Shaffer to have been a participant in the incident.
The victim in this case was a player for the New York Jets at the time of the robbery. The victim will not be identified.
As a result of a thorough, extensive and cooperative investigation, Shaffer was charged on January 15, 2026, with two counts of first-degree Robbery, in violation of NJSA 2C:15-1a(2), and second-degree Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery, in violation of NJSA 2C:5-2(a). Shaffer is detained at the Bergen County Correctional Facility on charges stemming from an unrelated criminal case in Passaic County. On February 2, 2026, he was ordered to remain detained at the Bergen County Correctional Facility for the Morris County charges.
Shaffer is scheduled to appear for a pre-indictment conference before Judge Ralph E. Amirata, J.S.C. on March 2.
This incident and additional actors remain under investigation. Anyone with information about this robbery is encouraged to contact the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at 973-285-6200.
First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood recognized the law enforcement agencies that participated in this exhaustive investigation, notably the Morristown Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigations, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit.
First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood said: “This arrest was the result of dogged persistence on the part of our investigators at the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office MCU and Morristown Police. Such crimes will be met with a coordinated, persistent, and effective police response until resolution.”
Editor’s 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 a reasonable doubt.
Adelphi University combines academic excellence, hands-on learning, and a close-knit campus community to help students thrive.
MADISON — Celeste Arbelaez has been named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List at Adelphi University, recognizing her outstanding academic achievement.
Arbelaez was among a select group of students honored by Adelphi’s deans of Arts and Sciences, Education and Health Science, Business, Nursing and Public Health, and Social Work and Psychology. Dean’s List recognition is awarded to full-time students enrolled in at least 12 credits who complete a minimum of nine graded credits and earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher for the semester. The distinction becomes a permanent part of a student’s academic record.
Adelphi University is a nationally ranked doctoral research institution known for its personalized approach to higher education, featuring small class sizes, hands-on learning opportunities, and strong academic support. U.S. News & World Report has named Adelphi a 2026 Best National University, Best College for Veterans, and Top Performer in Social Mobility, while Forbes has ranked it the top private university on Long Island for the past three years.
Located in Garden City, New York, Adelphi serves more than 7,300 students across its main campus, learning hubs in Manhattan, the Hudson Valley, and Suffolk County, and through online programs. The university’s more than 123,000 alumni continue to make an impact in their professions and communities worldwide.
MORRIS COUNTY — Denville Police arrested a Rockaway man on multiple motor vehicle charges following an incident late Tuesday night, January 28.
According to police, officers responded at approximately 9:42 p.m. to Pocono Road after receiving a report of a driver sleeping behind the steering wheel in a lane of travel. Upon arrival and investigation, officers determined the driver was operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated .
The driver, identified as Jesus A. Ruizhernandez, 41, of Rockaway, was taken into custody and transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing.
Ruizhernandez was charged with driving while under the influence, reckless driving, careless driving, failure to use required lights, driving with a suspended license, delaying traffic, and failure to observe a traffic control device. After being issued the appropriate motor vehicle summonses, he was released pending a future court appearance in Denville Municipal Court.
Editor’s 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 a reasonable doubt.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
MOUNT ARLINGTON — The Lake Hopatcong Elks Lodge #782 is gearing up to host a spirited community event — the Pre-Leap in the Lake 2026 Pig Roast Fundraiser — on Saturday, February 21, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Held at the Elks Lodge located at 201 Howard Boulevard, this annual fundraiser brings residents together to enjoy an afternoon of delicious food, live music, and camaraderie — all in support of the lodge’s Leap in the Lake charitable initiative.
The event will feature mouth-watering BBQ selections including burgers, hot dogs, BBQ chicken, baked beans, mac-n-cheese, and pasta salad, with catering by Smokin’ Schmidty’s.
Adding to the excitement, live musical performances will be provided by local favorites: Vinyl Tap, The Wannabes, The Brian Drux Project, and Cardon Raquet.
Ticket pricing is as follows:
$25 in advance
$30 on the day of the event
$15 for children
Tickets are available for purchase daily after 12:00 noon at the lodge. For more information, residents can contact the Elks at 973-398-9835.
“All proceeds from the event will benefit the Lake Hopatcong Elks Leap in the Lake Grand Total,” organizers said, highlighting the lodge’s ongoing dedication to community service and charitable outreach.
MORRIS COUONTY — County College of Morris announced that its Data Science degree program has been ranked #10 in the nation by TechGuide’s 2026 Best Associate in Data Science Programs. This prestigious recognition underscores CCM’s commitment to academic excellence and its impact in preparing students for successful careers in data science and analytics.
This ranking arrives at an exciting time for the data science profession, marked by extraordinary growth. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for data analysts is projected to grow 36 percent from 2023 to 2033, significantly faster than the average growth rate for all occupations, with a median annual wage of $112,590. With strong opportunities across multiple sectors, CCM’s Data Science option is intentionally designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare, finance, technology and government.
CCM’s Data Science program provides students with a strong foundation in both computing and analytics. Graduates of the program are prepared for immediate entry into the workforce and for seamless transfer to four-year institutions, including the first-ever transfer pathway with Ramapo College that can lead to a master’s degree in data science. Students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and languages such as Python, R, SQL, Tableau and Java, and engage in collaborative, project-based learning using real-world datasets.
“Being recognized as one of the top 10 Data Science programs in the nation is a significant achievement with real impact for our students and employers across the state,” said Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, president of CCM. “This distinction reflects the strength and evolution of our program, as well as the dedication of our faculty and staff who help launch our students into high-demand, high-wage careers, strengthening the region’s skilled workforce pipeline.”
“Our Data Science program is designed to give students not just technical skills, but the confidence to learn how to use data science and AI in real-world problems,” said Professor Colleen Bamford, chairperson of the Information Technologies Department. “In addition to our associate degree, CCM offers a five-course Certificate of Achievement in Data Analytics, which may be completed online and is stackable for quicker completion of the degree. It is through hands-on projects, small class sizes and access to industry-standard tools that CCM students gain a competitive edge.”
For more information about any of CCM’s offerings in computing, data science and information technology, click here.
About TechGuide
TechGuide.org supports students, educators and institutions in making informed decisions in Analytics and Computer Science education, reaching more than 30,000 visitors each month. The annual rankings are based on official Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) data, which colleges and universities in the U.S. report to the Department of Education. Using this data, TechGuide evaluates key metrics that matter most to students, including admissions selectivity, class size, faculty support, availability of financial aid, graduation outcomes and total enrollment. The full 2026 Best Associate in Data Science Programs rankings are available by clicking here.
New Jersey State Senator Anthony Bucco joins Alejandro (Alex) Martinez, President and CEO of the YMCA, in cutting the ribbon at the newly renovated Health and Wellness Center.
MOUNTAIN LAKES — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA marked a major milestone in its ongoing commitment to community health and wellness with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, January 30, celebrating the completion of its newly renovated Health and Wellness Center.
The event brought together community leaders, YMCA staff, members, and local officials, including Anthony Bucco, who joined Alejandro (Alex) Martinez, President and CEO of the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, in officially opening the updated facility.
The renovation represents a significant investment in modern fitness amenities, innovative programming, and inclusive wellness opportunities designed to serve individuals and families at every stage of life. YMCA leadership emphasized that the project was guided not only by the latest fitness trends, but also by the organization’s longstanding mission to strengthen the community through connection, accessibility, and support.
During the ceremony, Martinez highlighted the broader purpose behind the renovation, noting that the YMCA’s role extends well beyond fitness equipment and workout spaces. He said the updated Health and Wellness Center was designed to create an environment where members feel welcomed, supported, and motivated, whether they are beginning a fitness journey, maintaining long-term health goals, or simply seeking connection with others.
“This renovation is about investing in people,” Martinez said. “We wanted to create a space where everyone feels comfortable and empowered to improve their health, no matter their age, background, or fitness level.”
The newly renovated Free Weights and Power Zone at the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA offers expanded space and updated equipment, providing members with a dynamic area for strength training and performance-focused workouts.
The redesigned Health and Wellness Center features several new and upgraded areas intended to enhance the member experience. Among the highlights is the introduction of the EGYM Smart-Strength Circuit, a technology-driven system that provides guided, full-body workouts in a short amount of time. The system uses personalized wristbands that automatically adjust equipment settings for each user, making strength training safer and more accessible for beginners while still offering effective workouts for experienced members.
The newly renovated Power and Turf Training Zone at the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA features open blue turf flooring, functional training equipment, and dedicated space for strength, agility, and performance-based workouts.
In addition to smart strength training, the renovation includes an expanded turf-training zone equipped with functional training tools such as ropes and agility equipment. The space was designed to support both individual workouts and small group training, offering flexibility for a wide range of fitness styles.
A newly upgraded cycle studio was also unveiled, featuring enhanced lighting, elevated staging, and immersive sound designed to energize participants and create a dynamic group fitness experience. YMCA officials said the upgraded studio allows instructors to deliver more engaging classes while fostering a strong sense of community among participants.
The newly updated Member Lounge at the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA provides a relaxed, welcoming space where members can unwind, socialize, and recharge before or after their workouts.
Another key addition is the FitWorks Studio, a dedicated space for small group training and personal coaching. The studio provides a focused environment for members looking to take a more structured approach to their fitness goals, supported by trained professionals.
The main cardio and strength areas of the facility were also reimagined to improve layout, flow, and accessibility. Updated equipment, expanded space, and thoughtful design elements aim to reduce crowding and create a more welcoming atmosphere for members of all abilities.
The FitWorks Studio at the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA offers a dedicated space for small-group training and personal coaching, designed to help members focus on goal-driven, high-impact workouts.
Senator Bucco praised the YMCA’s continued investment in community wellness, noting that facilities like the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA play a critical role in promoting healthy lifestyles and social connection.
“The YMCA has always been a cornerstone of our communities,” Bucco said. “This renovation ensures that residents have access to high-quality facilities that support both physical health and overall well-being.”
Beyond the physical upgrades, YMCA leaders emphasized that the Health and Wellness Center remains rooted in the organization’s core values. The YMCA continues to offer programs and memberships designed to be accessible, including financial assistance options to ensure that cost is not a barrier to participation.
Martinez noted that the renovated space supports the YMCA’s broader mission of serving the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—while strengthening relationships and building a sense of belonging.
“Whether someone comes here for a workout, a class, or simply to be part of a supportive community, the Y is a place where lives are strengthened together,” he said.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony concluded with tours of the renovated facility, giving attendees an opportunity to see the new spaces firsthand and learn more about upcoming programs and offerings. YMCA staff were on hand to answer questions and share how the upgrades will enhance daily operations and member experiences.
The Health and Wellness Center is now fully open, and YMCA officials encouraged community members to visit, explore the new amenities, and take advantage of the expanded opportunities for fitness and connection.
Atlantic Health has appointed Dr. Melissa Lozano as its new System Medical Director for Women’s Health, officials announced.
A board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and experienced physician leader, Dr. Lozano will oversee the strategic growth of women’s health services across the Atlantic Health system. In her new role, she will collaborate with hospital department chairs and system leadership to advance patient-centered, innovative models of care and strengthen coordination among hospitals, ambulatory sites, medical groups, and care teams.
“I am honored to join this incredible team at Atlantic Health and lead efforts that prioritize the health and well-being of women in the communities we serve,” Dr. Lozano said. “Together, we will continue to expand access to advanced care, foster innovation, and ensure every woman receives the personalized, exceptional care she deserves.”
Prior to joining Atlantic Health, Dr. Lozano served as an attending obstetrician-gynecologist at Mount Sinai West. She also held several leadership positions at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, including Division Director of Generalists and Laborists and Postpartum Medical Director. In those roles, she led multidisciplinary teams and initiatives focused on improving quality of care, patient experience, and postpartum outcomes.
Atlantic Health officials said Dr. Lozano’s appointment will play an important role in expanding access to care and ensuring high-quality women’s health services at every stage of life.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Lozano as our new System Medical Director for Women’s Health,” said Dr. Steven Sheris, Executive Vice President of the Clinician Enterprise at Atlantic Health. “Her deep clinical expertise and commitment to excellence will strengthen our ability to deliver high-quality care that meets the unique needs of women throughout their lives. We look forward to the positive impact she will have on our patients and communities.”
Dr. Lozano will work closely with Amanda Tempe, who has been appointed Executive Director for Women’s Health. Tempe joined Atlantic Health in 2016 and most recently served as Director of Practice Operations for Atlantic Medical Group, overseeing more than 50 physician practices across 50 locations and supporting approximately 450 team members.
Dr. Lozano completed graduate studies at Boston University School of Medicine and earned her medical degree from SUNY Downstate Medical School. Her professional background also includes roles in medical education and faculty development, along with research and national presentations focused on clinical quality and maternal health.
Captain Timothy Stewart, Captain Thomas Markey, Corporal Richard Quinn, Corporal Peter Lenahan, Warden Anthony Lotz
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Sheriff’s Office recently honored four longtime members of its Bureau of Corrections as they prepare for retirement, recognizing decades of dedicated service to public safety and the community.
Sheriff James M. Gannon and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office formally acknowledged the careers of Correctional Police Lieutenant Sean Lomax, Correctional Police Corporal Ronnie Joseph, Correctional Police Corporal Richard Quinn, and Correctional Police Corporal Peter Lenahan. Each officer made significant contributions to the Bureau of Corrections and played an important role in maintaining safety and professionalism within the county correctional system.
Corporals Richard Quinn and Peter Lenahan were honored with a traditional walkout ceremony at the Morris County Correctional Facility, a time-honored tribute recognizing their years of service. Throughout their careers, all four officers exemplified integrity, commitment, and dedication to protecting the residents of Morris County.
The Sheriff’s Office extended its appreciation to Lieutenant Lomax and Corporals Joseph, Quinn, and Lenahan for their devotion to duty, wishing each of them a safe, healthy, and happy retirement as they begin the next chapter of their lives.
The Morris County Sheriff’s Office thanked the retirees for their many years of service and their lasting impact on the department and the community they served.
