Belleville Post - September 2023

BELLEVILLE POST

National Night out

Belleville man honors Revolutionary War vets

By Daniel Jackovino Staff Writer

Situated along Belleville Avenue, the Bloomfield Cemetery is the final resting place of numerous Revolutionary War veterans, some who gave their lives during the war.

A headstone, with a plaque bearing their names was unveiled earlier this summer before 100 spectators. Among the guests were Margo Perl and Mary SellittoCurcio, sisters and descendants of Allison Dodd, who founded the cemetery.

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Youth goes to Washington

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Bucs eye fine season

“This cemetery is unrecognized,” Bonnie Sharkey, the regent of the Major Joseph Bloomfield Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, said before the ceremony. “We want to bring awareness. There are 32 veterans of the American Revolution here.”

Mary Jones, the cemetery director, credited Sharkey and Michael Perrone, a local mason and president of the Belleville Historical Society, for making the dedication possible. Perrone has made it a personal mission to clean the headstones of veterans interred in northern Jersey cemeteries, including the Bloomfield Cemetery.

During the dedication, violinist Jessica Valiente played compositions from the 1770s and ‘80s including “A Toast to George Washington,” by Francis Hopkinson, and “Chester,” by William Billings.

Welcoming the spectators, Jones said the dedication was for America’s first heroes and veterans. Everyone then sang the National Anthem.

Perrone, wearing a Revolutionary War military costume with tricorn hat, spoke.

“I took an oath when I joined the military to serve and honor,” he said. “The men here served and honored and their lives were taken away early. When you take an oath, it doesn’t expire.”

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Perrone, who fabricated the headstone, and Val Hadshinow, a professional monument engraver who engraved the names, unveiled the monument. According to Perrone, Hadshinow was responsible for engraving all of the nearly 3,000 names

Bon the 9/11 monument located at Eagle Rock Mountain Reservation.

Following the placing of a wreath and multiple cannon salutes, the ceremony concluded.

Perrone said he had located 22 of 32 burial sites.

“I’m sure we’ll find the others,” he said. “We’re not looking for them, but a majority of the graves are marked and have stones.”

He said so many Revolutionary War veterans’ headstones were located that he figured a ceremony was necessary.

“We were able to do it in about two weeks, the whole idea,” he said. “No one had the intention of doing it for the Fourth of July, but you need to have a Fourth of July celebration here every year.”

Photos by Daniel Jackovino

Belleville Historical Society President Michael Perrone, in Colonial Army uniform, at the dedication of a Revolutionary War memorial in Bloomfield Cemetery. Perrone is a mason and he fabricated the monument. With him is Val Hadshinow, who engraved the plaque. Below is the plaque.

Belleville turns out for National Night Out at high school stadium

Mayor Michael Melham, the Township Council and the police department hosted a National Night Out Celebration in early August.

The event was held at the Belleville High School Municipal Stadium and there was music, games, bounce houses, food trucks, more than 20 vendors plus a touch a truck experience and an epic tug of war.

National Night Out focuses on enhancing the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while contributing to a sense of community.

Photos Courtesy Belleville P.D.

Eight people seeking school board seats

BELLEVILLE — Eight people have filed to run for the two open seats on the Trustees of the Board of Education.

The seats currently held by Erika Jacho and Frank Velez are up for election with Velez not filing to run again but Jacho, who has been on the board since 2017, choosing to seek reelection.

The other candidates are Nelson Barrera, Lissa Missaggia, Kenia Nicole, Ruben A. Rodriguez, Esteban M. Leon, Brenda Pacheo, and Michael Sheldon.

Voters will select two candidates who will serve three year terms. The vote is part of the general election scheduled for Nov. 7.

Township to hold Sept. 11, ceremony

BELLEVILLE — The township’s Sept 11 Rememberance Ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. on Sept. 11.

The event is being held by Mayor Michael Melham, the municipal council, the police and fire departments at Belleville's 9/11 Park, which is located at the corner of Franklin Avenue and Chestnut Street.

Photo Courtesy of Belleville Police Department

Nutley American 8U team are champions

The Nutley American 8U Little League All-Star baseball team enjoyed a summer to remember, capturing both district and Northern state championships before finishing as the overall state runner-up.

Nutley American won its first 8U District 8 championship with a win over Bloomfield. The team then advanced to the Northern state tournament where it defeated Hoboken and Oradell Gold twice, including in the title game.

Nutley American then faced Southern tournament champion Nottingham in the state championship on Sunday, July 30, in Hamilton.

Players: Taylor Gonick; Tyler Gonick; Alexander Medaska; Elias Diaz; Henry Jernick; James Poth; Jase Giordano; Joseph Gilberti; Luke Richards; Nolan Lazu; Owen Farley; and Vincent Ritacco.

The coaches were Travis Gonick; Steve Gilberti and Rob Medaska.

Restaurant week returns to Nutley in Sept.

Restaurant & Foodie Week returns to Nutley in September.

The event, which will run from Sept. 25 to Sept. 28, showcases local eateries to township residents and to diners in surrounding towns ready to experience the diverse and delicious options Nutley offers.

Diners enjoy specials and discounts offered specifically for Restaurant Week as they explore the wide range of cuisines that comprise our vibrant food scene.

The event is organized by the Nutley Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Commissioner John V. Kelly III and Department of Public Affairs and Health.

Publisher: David Worrall

Editor: Joe Ungaro

Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina

Photo Courtesy of Travis Gonick The Nutley American 8U Little League All-Star players and coaches are all

after winning the North State Tournament championship.

Nutley holds Junior Police Academy for middle school students

The Nutley Police Department welcomed students for its free, week-long Junior Police Academy in July.

The Academy started in 2013 and has improved and become a township staple under the leadership of Nutley Police Lt. Michael Padilla.

During the week of June 26, students from grades 5-8 gathered at John H. Walker Middle School to learn basic police fundamentals including marching, self-defense, and crime scene processing, while participating in a variety of presentations.

“I am incredibly proud of everyone who participated in this year’s Junior Police Academy,” Public Safety Director Alphonse Petracco said. “It was an incredible turnout and I want to especially thank all of the police officers, firemen and EMTs for taking the time to educate our Township’s youth in public safety. It was a rewarding experience for all.”

Padilla said one of the biggest challenges in the 21st century for students is managing the constant presence of social media so it was a major topic explored throughout the week.

“It’s easy to become desensitized by smartphone activity and lose awareness of the real world,” Padilla said. “We attempt to teach students how our decisions affect others and how, despite the increased use of social media, we must continue to be mindful of one another.”

High school students got a chance to help out at Jr. academy

In addition to exploring real-world awareness in the face of social media, students also experienced firsthand crime scene processing and obtained valuable investigation skills. Following directions, discipline, and respect are the key traits needed by a first-responder or law enforcement official, and each of those areas were emphasized throughout the course of the week.

In addition, a special opportunity was provided to Nutley High School students interested in a law enforcement career as they were able to serve as squad leaders. Student Ryan Kenny has participated in the program for five years. He started off as a blue shirt and has since moved up in rank to a yellow shirt, signifying his advancement to a leadership role.

“As a blue shirt, I learned how to form a team and work together as a group,” he said. In his upgraded position this year, he “found new confidence to be able to speak out and grow as an individual.”

Recent Nutley High School graduate Milan Ramirez participated in the program last year and spoke of being highly “impressed by everything the police department did to make it all happen. I want to go into the criminal justice field so it’s a really good experience for me to be able to have this background knowledge and apply it to my future endeavors,” Ramirez said.

On the final day of the program, students were congratulated for their efforts and hard work during a graduation ceremony.

“Our goal is to make the academy all inclusive for everyone,” Padilla said. “We

Photo Courtesy of Nutley Police Department

Several members of the Nutley Police Department participated in the academy and they were helped by Nutley High School students interested in law enforcement careers.

Rally Day at Vincent United Methodist

NUTLEY — Vincent United Methodist Church will hold Rally Day on Sept. 10.

Rally Day is when the congregation reassembles after the summer to begin a new church year, according to a press release from the church.

The Chancel Choir will sing at the event, the Sunday School teachers will be dedicated for their ministry, there will be a Blessing of the Children and their backpacks for the new school year, and there will be a party for the children to kick off the Sunday School year with games, activities, and refreshments.

Vincent Church’s Sunday School has classes for children from kindergarten through grade 12 and meets during the

worship hour each Sunday. The curriculum being used is “Deep Blue” featuring Bible stories, a weekly DVD clip, games, crafts, and activities to help children “grow deeper in their faith.”

Children and their families are invited to come any Sunday. Vincent United Methodist Church is located at 100 Vincent Place, across from the library. It is handicapped accessible from the north parking lot.

For more information, contact the church office at 973-667-5440 or visit the church website at www.vincentumc.org or on Facebook.

All are welcome.

Backpacks available for students in need

NUTLEY — The Nutley Educational Foundation, in partnership with Nutley Family Service Bureau, will again run their "We've Got Your Back" initiative.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, they currently have more than 50 backpacks ready for distribution to qualifying NFSB students, according to a press release from the Foundation.

Since 2017, NEF has provided over 300 new, quality backpacks with supplies plus gift cards to NFSB student clients. NEF is calling out to all donors to help strengthen their reach for 2023. Their goal is the same as 2022: $4,000. Please consider sending a monetary

gift made payable to Nutley Educational Foundation (NEF), reference "Backpacks'' and mail to P.O. Box 735, Nutley, NJ 07110 or donate online at www.nutleyef.org so they may purchase additional backpacks and specific supplies for each grade level.

Deadline for donations is Aug. 31

Formed in 2003, NEF is not for profit organization established solely to provide funding to support educational endeavors in the Township of Nutley.

Since a reorganization in 2015, NEF has supported more than $85,000 in educational projects benefiting the Nutley school district and community.

Girls tennis season will be special for Martin family, Nutley program keeps rising

By Joe Ragozzino Sports Editor

Valerie Martin is excited about the Nutley High School girls tennis season.

Entering her 16th season as the head coach, Martin said the program continues to grow. This season, there are 28 players in the program, with 11 on the varsity and the rest on junior varsity.

Nutley, which begins the season on Tuesday, Sept. 5, against Bloomfield at DeMuro Park, is coming off a strong season. The Raiders finished 9-6, including capturing a share of the Super Essex Conference–Colonial Division championship with Cedar Grove – both teams had 7-1 divisional marks. Nutley fell to Morris Hills in the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association’s North Jersey, Section 1, Group 3 state tournament first round.

This season will be very special for Martin and her family. Her son, Joe Martin, has been the NHS girls JV coach for the past few seasons. Her other son, Jeff Martin, has been named the new girls tennis head coach at West Essex Regional in North Caldwell.

It will be mother versus son when Nutley faces West Essex on Thursday, Sept. 14, at West Essex.

“It should be a great match between Nutley and West Essex,” Valerie said, in an interview with the Nutley Journal on

Thursday, Aug. 24. Jeff “is very into it,” Valerie added. “Today, he was taking (the West Essex girls team) to the U.S. Open.”

West Essex last season won the NJSIAA’s North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2 state tournament championship and finished 10-6 overall.

Joe also is passionate about tennis. In addition to being the girls JV head coach, he is the NHS boys tennis varsity coach in the spring.

Valerie Martin and her sons were born and bred in Nutley, and are all NHS graduates who played sports throughout high school. In fact, Valerie and Joe reside in Nutley.

Jeff had been an assistant coach with the NHS football program for the past few seasons. He also is the head varsity coach of the West Essex boys tennis team in the spring. Because the football and girls tennis seasons are held in the fall, Jeff had to step down from his position as an Raiders football assistant.

The Martins, indeed, love to coach and mentor their athletes.

“We’re very into (helping) the kids, we’re very competitive,” Valerie said. “It came from my (late) father’s mentality, he was a youth football coach years ago, and it’s just in the family. Between the teaching and the coaching, all our lives we were exposed to it. Now the three of us are coaching.”

Nutley youth goes to Washington on behalf of Juvenile Diabetes

Special to the Nutley Journal

Nutley resident Russell Ballou was recently recognized by the Nutley Board of Commissioners for representing New Jersey at the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Children’s Congress in Washington D.C.

“I want to commend you and congratulate you on being selected; it’s a great honor,” said Commissioner John V. Kelly III.

Russell, 11, traveled to Washington D.C. on July 9, with his family for the three-day event. Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease where insulinproducing beta cells in the pancreas are mistakenly destroyed by the body’s immune system. T1D occurs in both children and adults, and there is currently no cure. People with T1D are dependent on injected or pumped insulin to survive.

“I was extremely nervous to speak with the congressmen and women,” he said, “but with the support of Nutley, and having practiced beforehand at the Commissioners meeting, I was able to have the determination to go to Capitol Hill and share my experiences with the delegates from not only the 50 U.S. states but from Australia, Canada, the UK, and the Netherlands.”

The main purpose of this convention was to educate on the importance of lowering insulin costs for individuals with T1D like Russell.

Renewing the Special Diabetes Act, and securing a future to a cure, was another important task on the agenda. As an incoming John H. Walker Middle School student, attending the Children’s Congress was an enlightening experience for Russell, as he was surrounded by individuals who have faced the same circumstances as himself and understand the reality of T1D.

“I wasn’t the odd one out; everyone there could relate to me,” Russell said.

The first two days of the three-day convention were dedicated to prepping. Russell, along with other ambassadors, were given talking points but were also encouraged to speak from the heart and share their personal stories.

They met with the delegates and their designated State Senators to prepare for

the final day, in which they met with Federal lawmakers.

“We’re very proud of Russell. He went down to Washington D.C. and represented the Township of Nutley, the State of New Jersey, and his family,” said Mayor Joseph P. Scarpelli. “Let’s hope we find a cure for Type I diabetes. Russell is leading our fight!”

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Photo Courtesy of Nutley Twp. Russell Ballou outside Sen. Cory Booker’s office during his trip to Washington for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Kids learn how to run safe, profitable lemonade stand at township workshop

A Lemonade Stand Workshop was held for children in grades four to eight in the council chambers at the Nutley Town Hall.

The new initiative was designed to educate youngsters about the basics of food safety as well as the financial aspects of owning a lemonade stand, according to a press release from the town.

“Not only does the workshop set out to teach kids about profitability, but it’s also designed to teach them about safe food preparation and how that plays a very important role in running a successful business,” said Commissioner John V. Kelly III.

Led by Nutley’s Licensed Registered Environmental Health Specialist, Robert DeBello Jr., and Nutley Chief Financial Officer John Ditinyak, the workshop offered attendees a hands-on opportunity in learning how to set up and run a lemonade stand.

DeBello taught the children about the

important role hand washing plays in preventing the spread of illness, how to properly wash lemons, to ask an adult for help if sharp objects are needed in preparation, how to treat ice as a food item and how to properly store their product.

“You want to be sure you protect yourself, your money and your lemonade,” DeBello said. “You will always want to have an adult with you at your lemonade stand.”

Ditinyak showed the children how to determine what to charge for their lemonade in order to turn a profit. He got them to consider what supply costs go into making one pitcher of lemonade, how to make change for a customer and how to best advertise their product.

He encouraged the junior entrepreneurs to “go out and do it, and not just do the talk.”

Every youngster who participated in the workshop received a Junior Food Handler’s Certificate.

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Boyes Nutley students participated in a workshop on how to run a lemonade stand. The event was run by Commissioner John V. Kelly III, Commissioner Tom Evans, Licensed Registered Environmental Health Specialist Robert DeBello Jr. and Nutley Chief Financial Officer John Ditinyak.

Labib wins scholarship

Monica Labib from Nutley has been awarded the Theodore K. Steele Memorial Scholarship at New York Institute of Technology. The scholarship is awarded to first-year students with a GPA of 3.8 or higher.

Nutley students make Dean’s List at Scranton

The following students from Nutley have made the Dean’s List for the Spring Semester at the University of Scranton: Justin M. Bruggemann, a sophomore biochemistry major; Joseph T. Vazquez, a sophomore psychology major; Ethan Connors, a junior social media strategies major; Nicholas X. Bruggemann, a senior biology major; Athina Pramagioulis, a senior forensic chemistry major; Cristina M. Rodier, a senior occupational therapy major.

Nutley students make Dean’s List at Tampa

Luke Figueroa, of Nutley, a junior majoring in criminology and criminal justice and Jillian Pennise, also of Nutley, a sophomore majoring in finance, both made the Dean’s List for the Spring Semester of 2023 at The University of Tampa.

Nutley students make Dean’s List at Quinniiac

Adriana Hotsk and Malena Ugliarolo of Nutley were named to the Dean's List for the Spring 2023 semester at Quinnipiac University.

Turano makes Dean’s List at FDU

Ryan Turano, of Nutley, a student at Fairleigh Dickinson University's Metropolitan Campus in Teaneck, has been named to the Dean's List for the Spring 2023 semester.

Belleville students make Honor’s List at

FDU

Sophia Imparato, Riol Matamoros, Jalianyss Martinez Rivera and Jamie Matthew Pueblo, all of Belleville, have been named to the Honors Lists for the Spring 2023 semester at Fairleigh Dickinson University's Metropolitan Campus, located in Teaneck

Nutley students make Honor’s List at FDU

Aaliyah Vega, Emory Osmani and Michael Conforti, all of Nutley, have been named to the Honors Lists for the Spring 2023 semester at Fairleigh Dickinson University's Metropolitan Campus, located in Teaneck

Kubelka graduates from Tampa

Jordan Kubelka, of Nutley, graduated from The University of Tampa on May 6 with a bachelor of science in marketing.

Nutley students graduate from FDU

Sophia Lockwood, Jasmine Roca, Nicole Sullivan and Khanh Doan of Nutley, graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University on May 17.

Belleville students graduate from FDU

Alexandria Henderson and Ashley Torres, both of Belleville, graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University on May 17.

Hernandez makes Dean’s List at Holy Cross

Jocelyn Hernandez of Belleville was named to the College of the Holy Cross Spring 2023 Dean's List. A member of the Class of 2023, Hernandez was named to the Dean's List for outstanding academic achievement during the fall semester of the 2022-23 academic year.

Torres makes Honor’s List

Ashley Torres of Belleville was named to the Honors Lists for the Spring semester at Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Nutley students on Honors List at FDU

Cassidy Reidy and Nicole Sullivan, both of Nutley, were named to the Honors Lists for the Spring 2023 semester at Fairleigh Dickinson University's Florham Campus.

Kokos graduates from MSU

Caitlin Kokos, of Nutley, graduated from Montclair State University and finished on the dean’s list.

Diaz makes Dean’s List

Cesia Diaz of Belleville was named to the Dean's List at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, PA. for the spring 2023 semester.

Nutley students on Dean’s List at TCNJ

Rachel Echevarria, Megan Iradi, Daniella La Rosa, Zachary Marshall, Mia Scutti, Nicholas Serafino, Abigail Thurston, Sophy Vuong and Rebecca Wechter, all of Nutley, have made the Dean's List at The College of New Jersey for the spring 2023 semester.

See STUDENT NEWS, Page 14

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Fireworks planned for last summer concert

BELLEVILLE — The Summer Concert Series will conclude with a fireworks show on Thursday, Aug. 31.

The music before the fireworks will be the foot-stomping country hits of Big Hix, according to a press release from the township, which said that the Mayor Michael Melham Civic Association will also be sponsoring a free mechanical bull ride.

Concert-goers are urged to grab their lawn chairs and blankets and head to Belleville High School by 6:30 p.m. The concert is scheduled to begin at 7.

“The residents have simply fallen in love with the Summer Concert Series,” Melham said. “Whether it was salsa or soul or rock ‘n’ roll, the residents of Belleville know there’s something magical about live music.”

And, if you have the need for speed – and a night of free family fun – hit the afterburners and zoom over to the high school on Wednesday, Aug. 30.

“Top Gun: Maverick” is on the bill as Melham and the Township Council present the season finale of the Movies at Dusk program.

The film, in which Tom Cruise reprises his iconic role as the naval aviator Maverick, will begin at 8 p.m. Residents are asked to gather at 7:30.

Check the Township of Belleville’s website for more details on all the family-friendly festivities at www.bellevillenj.org.

Photo Courtesy of Belleville Police Department

The Belleville Police Department held a Story With A Cop event at Belleville Public Library & Information Center. Officers read stories and afterwards chilren got to play games, win prizes, draw in the ‘chalk zone’ and play inside a new patrol truck.

Nutley Belleville Columbus Day Parade planned for Oct. 8

The Nutley Belleville Columbus Day Parade, which is the largest Italian American event in Essex County, is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 8 at 1:30 p.m.

The parade route starts at Belleville High School proceeds north on Franklin Avenue and ends at Nutley High School.

More than 3,000 spectators are expected to attend the parade that will have more than 800 participants and 50 plus entries, including marching bands, drill teams, antique automobiles, motorcycles, floats, flags, zeppole stands and representation from many local organizations.

The Belleville Chapter of UNICO and the Federation of Italian American Societies of New Jersey will hold their annual Columbus Day Flag Raising on Oct. 8, at 9 a.m. at Belleville Town Hall on Washington Avenue.

The Nutley Chapter of UNICO will hold their Annual Columbus Day Flag Raising at 11 a.m. at Nutley Town Hall, Chestnut St.

The Committee will present the 2023 Grand Marshal Award to Maria and Vincenzo Di Paolo of DiPaolo Bakery and Redwood Realty Inc. at the Gala Honoree Dinner on Sept. 20, at 6:30 p.m. at the Nanina’s in the Park.

The awardees being honored in this year’s parade are:

• Lifetime Achievement; Elisabetta Calello

• Italian Heritage Award; Dennis A. Genuario

• Italian Business Leader Award; Renee Frescia Cahill

• Nutley Italian Man of the Year; Daniel A. Carnicella

• Nutley Italian Woman of the Year; Linda Monterosa

FRANK’S GMC Earns 2022 GMC DEALER OF THE YEAR

• Belleville Italian Man of the Year; Peter E. Caggiano

• Belleville Italian Woman of the Year; Frances H. Bacardi

• Renaissance Woman; Charla Macaluso

• Renaissance Men; Eric J. Lavin

• Community Excellence Award;

The parade reviewing stand will be at Franklin Avenue at the Oval in Nutley. If you are interested in participating with your association, band or car in the parade, contact Bill Freda – 973-6324367.

Lyndhurst, NJ - General Motors has recognized Frank’s GMC with the 2022 GMC Dealer of the Year award for outstanding performance in the last calendar year. The program annually honors the top 1 percent of GMC dealers across the country for their performance in sales and their ability to provide exceptional customer experience. This award is the most prestigious honor General Motors presents to its dealers and puts Frank’s GMC in an elite class of only 22 GMC retailers nationwide to meet the stringent Dealer of the Year qualifications.

Frank’s has been in Lyndhurst for over 90 years. The business was started by Frank Pezzolla, Sr. in 1936 and is currently owned and operated by his son, Frank Pezzolla, Jr. along with his three sons, Frank M., Joseph, and Michael and his niece Wendy LaCorte. Frank Sr. instilled in his family his dedication, honesty and strong work ethic which is apparent to all who walk through the door. Frank’s is honored to be named 2022 GMC Dealer of the Year, a prestigious award which is difficult to attain. Less than 1% of GMC dealers achieve this recognition.

325 Orient Way, Lyndhurst • 201-939-7708

FranksGMC.com

386 Franklin Ave, Nutley

Matthew Tyahla

File Photo

The annual Nutley Belleville Columbus Day Parade is set for Oc.t 8. More than 800 people will participate.

Students from Essex make pilgrimage to Lisbon

Approximately 800 young people from the Archdiocese of Newark joined more than 1 million Catholics from across the globe in Lisbon for the World Youth Day festival in early August.

The archdiocesan representatives — who included 43 scholarship recipients aged 18-35 and about 700 members of the Neocatechumenal Way faith formation program — got to see Pope Francis twice during their pilgrimage, which also included trips to multiple Portuguese and Spanish holy sites, according to a press release from the archdiocese.

On one such visit, the pilgrims danced for joy alongside fellow Catholics from Mexico, Chile, Italy and Austria outside the Cathedral of Santiago in Compostela, Spain. During another, they climbed over 500 stairs to pray at the top of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Tenões, Portugal, a feat which some accomplished barefoot.

One of the most significant parts of the trip occurred when the pilgrims brought several elderly and sick residents of a local nursing home to the Sanctuary of Fátima in Fátima, Portugal.

Many of these citizens had not left their building in at least a decade, so the youths enjoyed brightening their day as they attended Mass at the sanctuary together. Afterward, they participated in a candlelight procession in Fátima along with hundreds of thousands of other pilgrims, the release said.

Photos

Newark parishioner Matt Olivo, holding the cross, walks with hundreds of thousands of pilgrims in a candlelight procession in Fátima, Portugal, during the Catholic Church’s World Youth Day festival from Aug. 1-6.

"We've had such an amazing time,” said Father Kevin Kilgore, pastor of St. Pius X Parish, who co-led the pilgrimage of scholarship recipients with Montclair State University campus minister Ricardo

Casimiro. “Lives have been changed. We look forward to the future, to evangelizing this generation, which has truly been transformed.”

Initiated by Pope St. John Paul II in 1984, World Youth Day is held by the Catholic Church every two to three years in cities worldwide. This year’s festival saw Pope Francis pray for peace at the Sanctuary of Fátima, hear confessions from several youths and remind a large gathering that “there is room for everyone in the Church.”

The event, which lasted from Aug. 1 to Aug. 6, culminated in a closing Mass in Lisbon at which the pope urged all young people to love like Jesus, listen to Christ, and be unafraid to change the world. He also revealed that the next World Youth Day will occur in Seoul, South Korea, in 2027.

American Legion holding annual picnic at Post

BELLEVILLE — The American Legion Post 105 family’s annual picnic is scheduled for Sept. 16, starting at 1 p.m. Tickets are available at the Post. The cost is $25 and it includes BBQ, clam bar, beer, soda and music by The Jersey-Tones. The event is the largest fundraiser of the year for the Post and will include a 50/50 raffle and a gift certificate raffle.

The Post is located at 621 Washington Ave., Belleville.

Four candidates running for 3 seats on Board of Education

NUTLEY — Four people have filed to run for the three open seats on the school board.

Three of the candidates are incumbents seeking reelection to three-year terms while a fourth, Stephen Gilberti, is currently not a member of the board.

Salvatore Ferraro, the current board president, Salvatore Balsamo, the current vice president, and Lisa Danchak-Martin, are the incumbents. The vote will be part of the general election, scheduled for Nov. 7.

The nine-member Board is a policy setting body and is not responsible for the administration of the district. Board members attend one-to-two public meetings per month, held on Monday nights in the John H. Walker Middle School auditorium.

The president and vice president of the board are elected by the majority vote of their fellow board members during the annual January reorganization meeting.

In addition to their attendance at board and committee meetings, board members are also required to attend New Jersey School Boards Association training sessions on ethics, policy, and board roles and responsibilities.

Courtesy of the Archdiocese of Newark Archdiocese of

AHERN – Therese Nora, of Summit, formerly of Belleville; Aug. 13. Teacher. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 88.

• ANDERSON – Rita, of Toms River, formerly of Nutley; July 31. Bank teller, member of St. Andrew U.M. Church. Widow, mother, grandmother, aunt, 87.

• CARUSO – Arthur V., of Belleville; July 14. Army veteran. System analyst for Prudential. Former president, Optimist Club. Widower, father, grandfather, 84.

• MARTIN – Patricia A., of Nutley, formerly of Newark; July 5. Retired supervising clerk. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 88.

• MULLER – Paul Michael, of Harvey Cedars, formerly of Belleville; July 29. Teacher, adjunct professor. Widower, father, grandfather, great-grandfather.

• NICHOLS – Dorothy A., of Galloway, formerly of Paterson, Nutley, Bloomfield and Henderson, Nev.; Aug. 4. Retired AT&T phone operator. Widow, mother, 92.

• PELLEGRINO – Enrico Antonio, of Parsippany, formerly of Nutley; June 26. Widower, father, 100.

• SMITH – Rose Brobson, of Belleville, formerly of Orange; July 24. Red Cross lifeguard, bookkeeper. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 100.

• STANGOTA – Mary F., of Nutley; Aug. 6. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, greatgrandmother, 98.

In Memoriam is a weekly feature compiled by the news staff from various sources. We also provide the opportunity for families and funeral directors to publish a more extensive, special notice about their loved one called an obituary. These notices are published on our website immediately and then in the next edition of this newspaper. To place a paid obituary send an email to obits@thelocalsource.com or fax to 908-688-0401. Family and friends’ submissions must include sender’s name, address, phone and the name of the funeral home. Call 908-686-7850 for assistance.

NUTLEY — The Board of Commissioners announced recently that they are continuing to make progress on the property formerly occupied by the Ciccolini Brothers store on Franklin Avenue.

The Board passed a redevelopment plan in March for the property and the contiguous lots along the west side of Franklin Avenue.

“The goal of this redevelopment plan is to promote the development of a signature project which would create a focal point/gateway into downtown and to also act as a catalyst for future redevelopment opportunities,” Nutley Township Mayor Dr. Joseph P. Scarpelli said.

“The plan features an active retail space and a restaurant along the ground floor. A public plaza will be created for events and create 50 additional parking spaces to support both the existing business, new retail, and restaurant uses,” Scarpelli said. “Parking for the new residential space will be accommodated separately.”

The Board of Commissioners continue to work toward and fine tune the redevelopment plan for the Ciccolini project to ensure compatibility with surrounding residential neighborhoods, according to a press release from the Board.

“We are in earnest negotiations with the developer on a transformative project for the town,” Township Attorney Jonathan Bruno said.

The Board of Commissioners are excited and anxious to get started.

“We realize that in order to get it right, we need to be patient and pay great attention to detail,” Scarpelli said. "We are

This message is sponsored by these community minded businesses and organizations

more

this project will ultimately greatly enhance our beautiful town for decades to come.”

WORSHIP CALENDAR

BAPTIST

BR OOKD A L E C H RISTIA N C HU R C H , 1350 Broad Street, Bloomfield, 973-338-8536 We are a church that preaches and teaches the Bible. We invite you to join us in worship on Sundays at 10:30 am. Children’s Bible activities for ages 4 through 5th grade (called BCC Kids Church) are provided. Worship services can also be seen live online on YouTube and Facebook and via our website at www.brookdalechristian.com. In addition, we offer Bible Studies on Sunday mornings at 9:00 and on Thursday evenings at 7:00. You can participate in either one of these classes -or both- through Zoom by calling the church to get placed on the Zoom call list. There are several other opportunities throughout the week involving prayer, study, and community for all age levels. Brookdale is a loving and caring congregation under the leadership of Pastor Love Saquing and Pastor Jim Treffinger. Our mission is to be a Family Growing Together in God.

To add your House of Worship or make copy changes

Email us:

Adservices@thelocalsource.com or call 908-686-7700 x146

ROPRACTIC 260 Park Avenue Nutley 973-662-0006

LEGEND TITLE AGENCY, LLC

Margaret Santeramo, President 242 Washington Avenue, Suite C Nutley 201-942-9000

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FRANKIE’S CAR WASH 305 Broad Street Bloomfield 973-748-7300

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Belleville 973-751-6380

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Board of Commissioners says plan to improve Ciccolini site is moving along

To place your free listing, send information to the editor at essexcty@thelocalsource.com or at 1291 Stuyvesant Ave., Union, NJ 07083. Faxes may be sent to 908-686-0401.

ART

GREEN DOOR STUDIO WILL BE HOSTING AN ART EXHIBIT THAT INCLUDES 5 BY 5 PIECES by artists from all backgrounds, ages and ability levels. The exhibit will run until Sept. 16. A closing reception is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 16, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Featured artists include: Wendy Fox-Warfield, Natalie Crandall, Sumana GhoshWitherspoon, Ken Stanek, Sandra Charlap, Giselle Reyes, Pete Trunk, Jr., Matilda Forsberg and Emily Konopinski. The gallery is located at 306 Millburn Ave., Millburn.

COMEDY

THE FLIP SIDE, THE HOUSE IMPROV TEAM OF VIVID STAGE, WILL PERFORM at the Madison Community Arts Center on Sept. 8 at 8 p.m. The Flip Side offers a unique spin on short-form improv, taking audience input to create instant scenes that are both unexpected and hilarious. The Madison Community Arts Center is located at 10 Kings Road in Madison. Tickets are $20, and $15 for students 25 and younger. For advance ticket purchases, go to https://www.madisonartsnj.org/maca-events/. For more information, call 862-812-2036.

NBC’S “SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE” COMEDIAN JAY PHAROAH COMES TO NEWARK on Friday, Sept. 29, at 7 p.m., NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage, One Center St., Newark. Tickets are $29.50$49.50, available at www.njpac.org.

THE EMMY-NOMINATED TV SHOW “WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY?” on Friday, Oct. 13, at 8 p.m. at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, One Center Street, Newark. “Whose Live Anyway?” is 90 minutes of improvised comedy and song based on audience suggestions. Cast members are Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Jeff B. Davis, and Joel Murray. All ages are welcome, but please note that some “PG-13” language will be used during the performance. Tickets are on sale at NJPAC.org or available by calling 888. GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722) or by visiting the NJPAC Box Office at 1 Center Street, Newark. Tickets: $39.50 - $99.

GEORGE LOPEZ BRINGS HIS “ALLLRIIIIGHHTTT TOUR” TO NJPAC on Friday, Oct. 20, at 8 p.m., New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Prudential Hall Betty Wold Johnson Stage, One Center St. Newark. Tickets are $50.50 to $100.50.

LECTURES

NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON: THIS JUST IN: LATEST DISCOVERIES IN THE UNIVERSE at NJPAC on Nov. 30, at 7:30 p.m. A thought-provoking evening with astrophysicist, professor, and author Neil deGrasse Tyson of the Hayden Planetarium. Tyson will discuss how a “cosmic perspective” profoundly influences what we think and feel about science, culture, politics, and life. NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St. Newark. Tickets are $39.50 to $99.50 and are on sale now at NJPAC.org, 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722) or by visiting the NJPAC Box Office at 1 Center Street, Newark, New Jersey.

AN EVENING WITH GRAMMY AWARD WINNING SOUL STORYTELLER ANTHONY HAMILTON at New Jersey Performing Arts Center on Thursday, Sept. 7 at 8 p.m. NJPAC, Prudential Hall, One Center St., Newark. Tickets to see Anthony Hamilton are on-sale now and can be purchased by visiting NJPAC.org or calling 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722) or by visiting the NJPAC Box Office.

A LIVE CONVERSATION WITH CHEVY CHASE FOLLOWING A SCREEN OF CHRISTMAS VACATION on Friday, Dec. 15 at 8 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets: $39.50-$95.50

MUSIC

JOURNEYMAN, “A Tribute to Eric Clapton,” Sept. 15 at 8 p.m. Fronted by guitar virtuoso Shaun Hague, with Robert Monroe, Darius Petersen, Dina Bach, and Brandon Stephens, Journeyman covers all Eric Clapton classics, South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

LIV WARFIELD BRINGS HER BIG, SOULFUL VOICE AND ELECTRIC STAGE PRESENCE TO SOPAC, kicking off the national tour for her new album The Edge., Saturday, Sept. 16 at 8 p.m., South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets starting at $29.

BASSIST/PRODUCER MIKE GRIOT WILL PRESENT THE THIRD ANNUAL JAZZ & ROOTS MUSIC FESTIVAL, a free, public, outdoor music event, on Saturday, Sept. 23, in Hillside on The Lawn at Enlow Hall at Kean University. The festival will feature Third World, Stefon Harris, King Solomon Hicks, and DJ Prince Hakim.

PEDRITO MARTÍNEZ GROUP, “Echoes of Africa,” Sept, 30 at 8 p.m. Pedrito Martínez is a master of Afro-Cuban rumba and Yoruba traditions, South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 3132787.

R&B SENSATION MONICA BRINGS HER “CODE RED EXPERIENCE” tour to Newark on Sunday, Oct. 1, at 7 p.m. NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, One Center St. Tickets are $41.50- $131.50. WÉ ANI, finalist on “American Idol” opens.

DAMN THE TORPEDOES, a “Tom Petty Concert Experience” on Oct. 6, at 8 p.m. Led by guitarist Rich Kubicz, Damn The Torpedoes honors legendary artist Tom Petty by presenting his signature riffs and harmonies while adding their own fresh and often spontaneous twists to the music, South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

AN EVENING WITH KAKI KING, Oct. 7 at 8 p.m. Kaki King continues to live at the forefront of guitarists and performance makers, , South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

PORTUGUESE FADO STAR CARMINHO PERFORMS HER HITS at South Orange Performing Arts Center on Sunday, Oct. 8, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $55.50 to $72.50.

DON MCLEAN BRINGS HIS 2023 AMERICAN PIE 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR to the Wilkins Theater, 1000 Morris Ave., Union, on Saturday, Oct. 28 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $39 to $75.

THE WEEKLINGS, “The Music of The Beatles & More” on Oct. 13 at 8 p.m. America’s most unique celebration of the The Beatles features former members of Styx, Dave Mason, the original Beatlemania on Broadway, Jon Bon Jovi & The Kings of Suburbia, Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes, Springsteen drummer Max Weinberg’s Jukebox and BeatleFest house band Liverpool, South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

JOHN PIZZARELLI TRIO, “Stage & Screen” on Oct. 14 at 8 p.m. Guitarist and singer John Pizzarelli has been hailed by the Boston Globe for “reinvigorating the Great American Songbook and re-popularizing Jazz, , South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

SOULTOWN TO MOTOWN, “The Sensational Soul Cruisers” on Oct. 20 at 8 p.m. The Sensational Soul Cruisers bring their Soultown to Motown show to SOPAC, , South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

THE MACHINE PERFORMS PINK FLOYD’S “DARKSIDE OF THE MOON” on Oct. 21, at 8 p.m. The Machine performs a diverse mix of Pink Floyd’s extensive 16-album repertoire, South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

BLUES, ROOTS & BBQ IN THE LOFT AT SOPAC FEATURING DAVID KEYES & BLUES

PEOPLE on Sunday, Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. An intimate evening of world-class Blues and Roots music with the doors opening an hour before showtime for a BBQ dinner in The Loft. Tickets are $45

AN EVENING WITH JESSICA VOSK on Oct. 27, at 8 p.m. The New York Times praises Jessica Vosk as “the best of all” Elphabas from “Wicked,”

South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787. JAZZ VOCALIST MADELENIE PEYROUX WILL PERFORM AS PART OF THE TD JAMES MOODY JAZZ FESTIVAL on Friday, Nov. 3, at 8 p.m., NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $59 to $99.50

ARGENTINIAN LATIN/POP SINGERS BROTHER AND SISTER DUO PIMPINELA will perform on Nov. 8, at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St. Tickets are $37.99$197.99.

NEW VOICES, NEW VISIONS, “Michela’s Love Movement” on Nov. 11, at 8 p.m. Bandleader, musician, educator, choreographer, and tap dancing phenom Michela Marino Lerman’s brings her Love Movement to SOPAC, , South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

SPANISH RECORDING ARTIST VANESA

MARTÍN will be at NJPAC in Newark on Saturday, Nov. 11, at 8 p.m. in the Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, One Center Street Newark. Tickets are $41.99 to $171.99.

SPANISH RECORDING ARTIST VANESA

MARTÍN will be at NJPAC in Newark on Saturday, Nov. 11, at 8 p.m. in the Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, One Center Street Newark. Tickets are $41.99 to $171.99. AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH THE GRAMMY AWARD WINNING GLADYS KNIGHT on Sunday, Nov. 12, at 7 p.m. NJPAC Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St. Newark. Tickets range from $49.50 to $129.50 and are available at: www.NJPAC.org or Box Office 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).

THE LAST WALTZ CELEBRATION featuring The THE BAND Band with the TTBB Horns & Special Guests, on Nov. 17 at 8 p.m. The THE BAND Band delivers everything from The Band’s hit songs to cuts from their classic albums and collaborations with Bob Dylan, South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

GILBERTO SANTA ROSA “EL CABALLERO DE LA SALSA” RETURNS to New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark on Saturday, Nov.

25 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $49.50 to $129.50.

AUSTRALIAN POP ROCK GROUP AIR SUPPLY, a staple of early-’80s radio, will perform at NJPAC on Sunday, Nov. 26, at 7 p.m. See them perform their iconic songs, including “Lost in Love,” “All Out of Love,” or “Making Love Out of Nothing at All.” Tickets to see AIR SUPPLY go on sale Friday, July 21 at 10 a.m.. Reserve tickets early by visiting NJPAC.org or calling 888. GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722) or by visiting the NJPAC Box Office at 1 Center Street, Newark, New Jersey.

FONSECA, THE COLOMBIAN SINGER-SONGWRITER AND WINNER OF 7 LATIN GRAMMY® AWARDS WILL PERFORM on Saturday, Dec. 2 at 8 p.m. at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center S. Newark. Tickets are $49 to $129.

JONAS BROTHERS at the PRUDENTIAL CENTER in Newark on Wednesday, Dec. 6, and Thursday, Dec. 7. Tickets available at jonasbrothers.com.

THEATER

“DEPTHS OF WIKIPEDIA LIVE,” A STAGE VERSION OF THE SOCIAL MEDIA SENSATION will be performed at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center on Friday, Sept. 15 at 7 p.m. Creator Annie Rauwerda takes the audience on a journey through Wikipedia’s most interesting corners. Tickets can be purchased by visiting NJPAC.org or calling 888. GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722) or by visiting the NJPAC Box Office. “STOMP,” AN EXPLOSIVE, INVENTIVE, PROVOCATIVE, WITTY, AND UTTERLY UNIQUE EXPERIENCE for audiences of all ages will be at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center on Thursday, Nov. 2 and Friday Nov. 3 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $29 to $69. Reserve tickets by visiting NJPAC.org or calling 888. GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722) or by visiting the NJPAC Box Office at 1 Center Street, Newark, New Jersey.

Four new exhibits coming to the Montclair Art Museum this fall

The Montclair Art Museum has four new exhibitions opening this fall.

The first is “Taking Space: Contemporary Women Artists and the Politics of Scale” opening on Friday, Sept. 15.

Inspired by a show at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) in 2021, the new exhibition will display 10 pieces of art from PAFA alongside foundational works from the Montclair Art Museum’s collection of American women artists.

The exhibition invites viewers to consider how space, size, scale and repetition can be interpreted as political gestures in the practices of many women artists, according to a press release from the museum, which said the exhibition will run through Jan. 7, 2024.

Also on Sept. 15, New Jersey-based artist Siona Benjamin will unveil the graphic-arts inspired banner “Lilith in the New World” in the Laurie Art Stairway. This piece, measuring 13 feet high by 30 feet wide, explores the joys, passions and anguish of both time-honored and unfairly reviled women of the Hebrew canon.

A recurring figure in the artist’s oeuvre, Lilith was the mythological first wife of Adam, who is considered by some to be an icon of independence and courage.

The artist has reclaimed this iconic figure by combining styles derived from comic books, Pop art, Bollywood, street graphics, Indian folk images, Persian

miniatures and Hebrew manuscripts. Lilith’s blue skin is “a symbol of being other … a woman of color,” like the artist herself who is from India.

This exhibition will run through Aug. 4, 2024.

Also opening Sept. 15 is “Inspired by the Weight of an Object,” a Partnership with Studio Montclair. For the third year in a row, the Montclair Art Museum is working in collaboration with Studio Montclair to present a juried show inspired by the Museum’s fall exhibition.

Juried by Virginia Block and Ira Wagner, the MAM’s executive director, the exhibition will run concurrently at the Montclair Art Museum and Studio Montclair’s Leach Gallery at 641 Bloomfield Ave. in Montclair.

“Inspired by the Weight of an Object” builds on the approaches and themes of the women artists being exhibited in “Taking Space.” While not limited to women artists, the works on view utilize the scale of both the works themselves as well as their subject matter, multiple media, depictions of the body and abstraction to consider the many ways that space itself can be interpreted and incorporated in artistic expression.

The exhibition will be on view through Oct. 28.

This November, the Museum will welcome the first solo exhibition in the New

York City-area in six years featuring the renowned photographer Joel Meyerowitz. Drawn from a trove of 201 Meyerowitz photographs anonymously donated to the Montclair Art Museum in 2021, this exhibition will feature 22 photographs taken by Meyerowitz of Cape Cod from 1976 to 1987.

Meyerowitz is an award-winning photographer whose work has appeared in

more than 350 exhibitions in museums and galleries around the world. Celebrated as a pioneer, Meyerowitz was one of the first photographers to successfully transition from black-and-white to color in fineart photography.

This exhibition will be on view through the spring of 2024.

The museum is located at 3 South Mountain Ave., Montclair.

Photo Courtesy of Ira Wagner.

This photograph by Joel Meyerowitz called ‘Cape Cod, Massachusetts,’ was taken in 1979. It will be exhibited at the Montclair Art Museum.

Medicaid and CHIP help families access mental health services

The state of mental health among youth continues to be of public concern. According to the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Youth Risk Behavior Survey, youth mental health problems have increased significantly over the past decade, reaching an all-time high.

For instance, from 2011 to 2021, the rate of female high school students saying they feel sad or hopeless increased from 36% to 57%; for male students this rate increased from 21% to 29%.

Stressors at school, home or elsewhere can cause mental health disorders to arise, leading to negative impacts on how children learn and build relationships with others. If your child may need mental health support and doesn’t currently have health coverage, you have options. Free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) offers many benefits, including doctor’s visits, prescriptions, emergencies, and the coverage of behavioral health services, including mental health services through pediatricians, mental health professionals, local community providers and organizations, as

well as school systems. People who are pregnant or postpartum may also be eligible for this health coverage and mental and behavioral health services.

Who qualifies for Medicaid or CHIP? Eligibility varies by state and is determined by how many people are in a household and household income. For instance, in most states, a family of four with household income up to $60,000 per year may qualify for Medicaid, CHIP or both. To learn more about state-specific options, visit InsureKidsNow.gov or call 1877-KIDS-NOW. Enrollment is open year-round.

What if my child currently has Medicaid or CHIP coverage? Medicaid and CHIP coverage must be renewed annually. If you or your children have Medicaid or CHIP, it’s time to pay attention to your health coverage. Keep an eye on the mail for renewal information from your state. When it comes, complete the forms and send them back right away. Failure or delay in responding can result in you losing coverage, even if you are eligible for Medicaid and CHIP. If you have lost coverage, go to HealthCare.gov to find quality plans and for help paying costs.

What types of services are covered through Medicaid and CHIP? To help care for all parts of a child’s health, Medicaid and CHIP also cover routine health care visits, like preventive care, dental and vision checkups, specialist visits, physical, speech and occupational therapies, and emergency services. These programs also cover a wide range of mental health and substance use services such as counseling, peer support services, inpatient psychiatric services and case management services for needed medical, educational and social services. Services are covered through Medicaid for children and teens up to age 21 and through CHIP up to age 19.

States have flexibility to determine if services may be delivered using telehealth. These services are necessary to prevent, diagnose and treat a broad range of mental health symptoms and disorders, as well as substance use disorders.

Caring for mental health is caring for overall health. Early detection and intervention of mental health and substance use issues is crucial to the overall health of kids, teens and people during and after pregnancy, and may reduce or eliminate

the effects of a condition if detected and treated early. Take the time today to explore coverage options through Medicaid and CHIP. --StatePoint

iStock via Getty Images Plu

Belleville Bucs strive to keep cooking this season

By Joe Ragozzino Sports Editor

With head coach Brian Antab in his first year at the helm, the Belleville High School football team last season had a fairly young squad. Despite the struggles and injuries, the Buccaneers persevered. Their reward for that perseverance was a 40-22 road victory over

North Bergen in the season finale for their only win of the season.

The victory gave the Bucs some good vibes. Going into this season, the Bucs want to build off that momentum.

“We’re really excited about this season,” Antab said. “We had a very young group last year. We finished off the season, we won that North Bergen game.

We played the whole season with a ton of sophomores. By the end of the year, with some injuries, we were even younger. For that North Bergen game, we played with about five freshmen starting, so it was great to get those young guys experience, and winning that last game was a great momentumbuilder going into the offseason. It real-

ly motivated the kids. They worked all offseason in the weight room and in our new indoor training facility that we have, so those were great things in the offseason.”

At quarterback, the Bucs return junior Anthony Torres and sophomore Jordan Armstrong, who were in a battle for

See BUCS, Page 22

Photos by Joe Ragozzino

The Buccaneers are shown during a morning practice on Friday, Aug. 11.

FOOTBALL FOOTBALL

Bucs look to compete hard with strong returning group

(Continued from Page 21)

the starting job. “They both got experience last year and bring different things to the table,” Antab said.

Junior running back Jeremiah Cook also is a key returning player. Cook is a rugged runner who demonstrates strong diligence, breaking out last season with 1,149 rushing yards and nine rushing touchdowns to earn first-team honors on the all-Super Football Conference-Patriot White Division.

“He’s a tough kid and a hard runner,”

we offer a variety of vegan dishes!

Antab said of Cook. “He brings a hardworking attitude that really rubs off on the younger guys.”

Cook feels the Bucs are poised to have a strong season. “I think we’re going to do very good this season,” Cook said. “We showed some promise last year at the end of the year when we played North Bergen and got the win. I think we’re going to build off of that.”

The top receiver is expected to be junior Elijah Pickering, who is looking to bounce back from a thumb injury last

year. Leading the offensive line are junior center-guard A.J. Clenaghan and junior left tackle Ahmad Manley.

On defense, Clenaghan will see time on the line, as well as a pair of sophomore defensive ends in Caleb Love and Devon Westfield.

The linebackers are senior Adrian Rodriguez and sophomore Josiah Morton on the inside, and senior Khalil Bey and junior Dimitri Moya on the outside.

With continued hard work and focus, the Bucs hope to achieve a successful

season. “We’re really excited about this year, having another year of experience for all those players,” Antab said. “We’re going to miss the seniors that we had last year, but we’re really excited about the guys we have returning. We expect to be competitive in every game we play. We want to have a much more successful season than last year. We want to go out there and compete every day. We want to take it week by week. It’s a very similar schedule from last

See BELLEVILLE, Page 23

GOOD LUCK

Have a Great 2023 SEASON

Photos by Joe Ragozzino

The Buccaneers, shown during practice, return a solid group from last season.

Belleville wants to continue momentum from last season

(Continued from Page 22)

year, so we’re looking to avenge those losses. We just have to work together. Everybody has to worry about doing their job and coming together as a unit.”

The other teams in the Patriot-White Division are Millburn, Nutley, Passaic Valley, Wayne Valley and West Essex. Belleville was scheduled to open the season at Passaic on Friday, Aug. 25. One of the Bucs’ greatest wins in their history was a low-scoring 3-2 win over a

Passaic team that was ranked No. 1 in the state. The game occurred on Oct. 2, 1982, in Belleville. It was the second game of the season for both teams, which had won their season openers.

For longtime Bucs fans, it has been referred to as “The Game,” which featured three future NFL players in running back Craig “Ironhead” Heyward and linebacker Tyronne Stowe of Passaic, and defensive lineman David Grant of Belleville. Belleville also beat Passaic

in 1980, which interestingly was the last time Passaic had lost a regular-season game. Passaic in 1982 went on to win its second of three straight state sectional titles, beating North Bergen, 21-0, in North 1, Group 4 final, while Belleville finished 8-2 after losing a tough 12-7 decision to Union in the first round of the North 2, Group 4 state playoffs.

Belleville lost to Passaic, 58-12, in last year’s season opener in Belleville.

Schedule

• Aug. 25: at Passaic*

• Aug. 31: at Bayonne, 6:30 p.m

• Sept. 9: at Glen Ridge, 2 p.m.

• Sept. 15: vs. Hackensack, 7 p.m.

• Sept. 22: vs. Millburn, 7 p.m.

• Sept. 29: vs. Passaic Valley, 7 p.m.

• Oct. 7: at Nutley, 4 p.m.

• Oct. 14: at West Essex, 1 p.m.

• Oct. 20: vs. Bloomfield, 7 p.m.

*The outcome occurred after press time.

Photos by Joe Ragozzino Belleville second-year head coach Brian Antab watches during practice.