Nutley Journal - July 2023

NUTLEYJOURNAL

Fun times at Summer Fest

— See Pages 6,7 Local archer is on target

— See Page 10 Volleyball success!

We made it! Class of 2023 celebrates

A graduation ceremony was held for the Nutley High School Class of 2023 on Thursday, June 15, at Tangorra Field.

The event began with music by the school’s orchestra and wind ensemble, a flag salute and the singing of “The Star Spangled Banner.”

— See Page 18

Senior Class President Marcella M. Blancato gave a welcome address, which was followed by Jacob A. Caney’s saluta-

torian speech and Isabelle V. Anderson’s valedictory address.

Principal Denis Williams addressed the students for a final time, afterwhich the class was officially accepted by Superintendent of Schools Kent Bania and Board of Education President Salvatore Ferraro and class advisors Jessica Lemire and Victoria Van Dyke.

Destinations for members of the class

include Montclair State University, Rutgers, Oberlin College, the University of Delaware, Lehigh University, the University of Tennessee, the military, full-time jobs and the Parisian Beauty Academy.

For graduation photos and a list of graduates, see pages 20-24

Photo by Steve Ellmore Nutley High School students throw their caps in the air after it was announced they had officially graduated.

Local students doing well in college

The following are some local residents doing noteworthy things while attending college.

Springfield College has named Cherylann Nicosia from Belleville, NJ to the dean's list for academic excellence for the 2023 spring semester. Nicosia has a primary major of Psychology.

Jocelyn Hernandez, of Belleville received a bachelor of arts degree cum laude from College of the Holy Cross on May 26.

The following students from Nutley graduated from The College of New Jersey on May 18-19: Skylar Hutchison, bachelor of science, communication studies, magna cum laude; Daniella La, bachelor of science, art and art history; Dana Slotterback, bachelor of science, art and art history.

Meghan Mackle of Belleville, earned a bachelor of science and master of science in occupational therapy at Alvernia University.

Paul Kazimier Poplawski of Nutley Named to Spring 2023 Dean's List at Kutztown University.

Alexis Merritt, of Nutley, a Class of 2023 professional writing major at York College of Pennsylvania, was named to the Spring 2023 Dean's List.

Elena Navarra of Nutley graduated with a degree in special education from James Madison University during commencement exercises in May 2023.

Gianna Mattia of Nutley has been named to the Dean's List at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania for the Spring 2023 semester of the 2022-2023 academic year.

Shannon Granelli; Bella Guzman and Meghan Tran of Nutley made the Dean’s List at Bucknell University for the spring semester of the 2022-23 academic year.

The following Fairfield University students received Dean's List Honors for the Spring 2023 semester: Claire E. Brown and Kaitlin A. Peloso of Nutley.

Ethan Gaynor, of Nutley, graduated with a bachelor of science, exercise physiology from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in May.

Emily De Angelo of Nutley, was named to the Muhlenberg College Dean's List for the Spring 2023 semester.

Burcin Tuncalp, of Nutley, graduated from Quinnipiac University during commencement ceremonies held in May, with a master of science, cyber security degree.

Emily De Angelo of Nutley graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor of arts degree as a psychology major from Muhlenberg College.

Jacqueline Rubino of Nutley has been named to the Spring 2023 Dean's List at the University of Rhode Island.

Kara Nitkowski of Nutley graduated from Centenary University with a master of arts in school counseling.

Melanie Bumpus of Nutley was named to The University of Alabama Deans List for spring semester 2023.

Amanda McCullough and Dennis Kirby Jr., both of Nutley, were named to the Dean’s List at Rochester Institute of Technology for the spring semester of the 2022-2023 academic year.

Belleville police will be hosting two events for residents

The Belleville Police Department has two events coming up.

The first is Pizza With A Cop! on July 19 when the Community Relations Unit will be at Algeri's Pizza, at 502 Union Ave from 6 to 8 p.m. and offering a free slice of pizza to anyone interested.

People will be invited to share their thoughts, ask questions, voice concerns and have casual conversation with officers, according to a press release from the department, which said there will also be games, crafts and music.

The second event is National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 1, from 5 to 9 p.m. Mayor Michael Melham, the Township Council and the police department will be host, the release said.

The event will be held at the Belleville High School Municipal Stadium and there will be music, games, bouncy rides, food trucks and more than 20 vendors plus a touch a truck experience, the release said.

National Night Out focuses on enhancing the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. This event is an opportunity to meet and greet your neighbors and local first responders.

Police also ask that anyone wishing to have a block party or gathering for National Night Out contact them at 973450-3348.

Farmer’s Market is back on Sundays

The Nutley Farmers Market has returned for its 14th season and is scheduled to be open every Sunday through Oct. 29 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The market is located in Municipal Lot 7 at 507 Franklin Ave. in Nutley behind Bella Luce.

“We are always excited at this time of year to get the Market back up and running,” Mayor Joseph P. Scarpelli said. “We look forward to welcoming our vendors and residents, and making this year’s Market the most successful one yet.”

Vendors include: Asprocolas Acres, BAKER.nj, Cat-Like Reflexes Lemonade/Tornado Potato, Cozz Coffee,

Empanada Lady Food Truck, Grandma Emma's, Hidden Valley Farm, Hoboken Farms, Neshanic Valley Beekeepers, LLC, Paolo's Kitchen, Pickles Olives Etc., TreeLicious Orchards & Just Made Bakery, Cannapalooza Nursery, Emilio's Wood Fire Pizza, Hidden Brook Ranch LLC, and Somers 27 Soap Co.

The Market welcomes your donations of fresh produce and non-perishables for the Nutley Family Service Bureau, Inc. Food Pantry. Anyone interested in becoming a vendor or musical guest this season should contact Market Co-Manager Meredith Blank at farmersmarket@nutleynj.org or 973-284-4978.

Rotary Club to honor Nutley firefighters

The Rotary Club, in collaboration with Commissioner Alphonse Petracco and Fire Chief Paul Cafone, will be awarding six Nutley firefighters Rotary International Hero Awards.

The firefighters of the department’s Tour 1 were on duty the night Hurricane Ida caused devastation in Nutley in September of 2021.

Firefighters Pesci, Serrani, Miller, Ritacco and LaCorte saved countless lives during the first hours of the storm. Without fearing for their own safety, they went into raging flood waters along Franklin Avenue and other numerous locations in Nutley. The people they rescued were transported to fire headquarters for their safety. Without stopping, they continued to battle the storm that left parts of Nutley with severe damage.

Capt. Will Cassidy will be acknowledged for all his hard work as Office of Emergency Management coordinator. Through several severe storms and the Covid pandemic, Cassidy showed nothing but professionalism and dedication to the township, according to a press release from the Rotary, which said that Cassidy worked day and night to make sure all aspects of the town’s safety were handled.

The awards will be handed out on July 11 at fire department headquarters, 228 Chestnut St., at 6 p.m.

Township and Board of Ed to share services

The Board of Commissioners have entered into a shared services agreement with the Board of Education and established an ad-hoc committee to share resources and collaborate on initiatives that will improve conditions for the township’s youth and community.

Planned efforts include the improvement of existing conditions of board and township buildings and facilities and to improve upon current and future infrastructure for students’ academic and developmental support, according to a press release from the township.

"We are excited to get started on this initiative with the Board of Education subcommittee to further our mutual goal of ultimately optimizing the facilities, buildings and programs available to our residents," said Mayor Joseph P. Scarpelli.

The Township and BOE have historically shared services assisting each other in various capacities, including the recent completion of an outdoor preschool playground.

“We’ve been working cooperatively with the BOE for many, many years,” explained Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci. “But we never really formalized the way

Photo Courtesy of Nutley Twp. Mayor Joseph P. Scarpelli and the Nutley Board of Commissioners pose with members of the Nutley Board of Education.

See TOWNSHIP, Page 4

Nutley Chamber has luncheon planned

The Nutley Chamber of Commerce has a Networking Luncheon scheduled for Thursday, July 20.

The event is scheduled to run from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Oakley Kitchen, 789 Bloomfield Ave., in Nutley. The cost is $20 for members and $25 for prospective members and guests.

The Chamber has a meeting for prospective members on the third Thurs-

Seniors can get vouchers for Farmers Market

day of each month, according to a press release from the Chamber, which said that the events are an opportunity to build a professional network, gain business intelligence, and learn more about businesses in our community.

If your business or organization would like to sponsor an event and gain additional exposure, please email chamber@nutleychamber.com.

Township and Board Ed to pool resources

(Continued from Page 3)

we go about doing things. We need to make sure that our children are given the best educational experience we can possibly afford. The best way to do this is to pool our resources.”

Tucci said the township and the BOE are committed to the same ideals and family goals.

“I’d like to commend the leadership of the board and this administration for taking this initiative,” Tucci said. “When one of us wins, that’s good, but when all of us win, and the entire Township benefits, that’s great. That’s what we’re supposed to do. By introducing this resolution this evening, we’re making that statement that we’re committed to that.”

Commissioner Thomas J. Evans said the commission has been talking about the importance of having a top-notch educational system for a long time.

“If you think about our school system

and its structure, we can do better,” Evans said. “But we can’t do anything without getting together and recognizing that two organizations in the same town that have the ability to operate independently just can’t do as much as we need to do if we do it separately. What’s been paramount is the level of trust and mutuality of that trust, that says we need to do this, we want to do this, and we can.”

Members of the Nutley Board of Education were also present for passage of Resolution 138-23, including BOE President Sal Ferraro, who addressed the Board following its favorable vote.

“This resolution is the first formal step in establishing a joint agreement that will implement solutions to benefit our school district and community,” Ferraro said. “I want to thank the BOC for their insight and knowledge. We look forward to continuing our work together.”

The Essex County Division of Senior Services will be distributing 2023 Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program Vouchers at the Nutley Farmers Market on Sunday, July 16.

Residents can register for the program between the hours of 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. in Municipal Lot 7, which is located at 507 Franklin Ave. behind Bella Luce.

All residents 60 years and older, and income eligible, will be able to receive vouchers for the 2023 season, according to the Essex County Division of Senior Services. Applicants should be prepared

to produce valid photo identification, as well as proof of income.

As of July 1, 2023, eligible residents can earn no more than $26,973 annually; $2,248 monthly; 1,038. bi-weekly.

In addition, the Nutley Farmers Market has received a grant from City Green to provide approved residents an additional $25 in coupons, which can be redeemed for fresh fruit and vegetables only, at the Nutley Farmers Market, through Oct. 29.

For more information, please call the Public Affairs Department at 973-2844976.

Grants available for arts, history programs

Applications for the 2024 Essex County Local Arts and History Grant Program are now available. The funding is for programs that will take place from Jan. 1, 2024 to Dec. 31, 2024. The application deadline for both grant programs is Aug. 15.

“Essex County has a vibrant and diverse non-profit arts and historic preservation community that contributes greatly to our quality of life and local economy,” said Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. “The Essex County Local Arts and History Grant Program offers support that can help eligible non-profit organizations and government units continue providing high-quality arts programs.”

The Essex County Division of Cultural and Historic Affairs receives grants from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State and the New Jersey Historical Commission which is then regranted to support local arts and history organizations.

Non-profit organizations within Essex County that offer cultural and/or historical programming are encouraged to learn more about this grant opportunity. Grants are available to support general operating expenses and special projects. For additional information, visit https://essexcountyparks.org/cultural/grants.

Summer Fest floods Franklin Avenue with good vibrations

‘DON’T WORRY, BABY’ — Summer arrived in style along Franklin Avenue in downtown Nutley as Summer Fest 2023 returned to the delight of thousands of participants on Thursday, June 22. The annual event featured live music, food trucks, face painters, balloon twister, doggie treats, gaming truck and inflatable rides. Lights Out, shown above while in concert, kicked off the party with a solid set of Beach Boys-themed tunes while Beginnings closed out the evening with a tribute to Chicago, ensuring that an enjoyable time was had by all. — Additional Summer Fest images appear on page 7.

Photos by David VanDeventer

Photos by David VanDeventer

Elks Club has a Duck Race planned for mid-September

The Kearny-Belleville Elks have scheduled an Incredible Duck Race for Saturday, Sept. 16.

The event is free and will include live music, vendors, food trucks, a beer garden and more, according to a press release from the Elks Club.

Money raised through the Duck Race fundraiser helps to support Elks Club programs including scholarships, winter coats and books to children in need, furniture and household supplies to veterans transitioning from homelessness and care packages for patients at the East Orange veterans hospital.

For more information, check out www.INCREDIBLEDUCKRACE.com.

Historical Society restores and cleans gravestones of veterans

Members of the Belleville Historical Society spent several months restoring military and veteran monuments in Belleville and six other neighboring towns.

In the Veterans Circle in Glendale

Cemetery in Bloomfield where 4,500 veterans are buried, the Society identified and cleaned the gravestones of almost 300 soldiers who were killed in World War II, Korea and Vietnam.

Memorials have also been restored in

Nutley, Kearny, Newark, Passaic and Montclair. The projects have ranged from restoring the gravestones of those killed in action to bronze plaques and life size statues. For additional information visit bellevillehistory.org.

Belleville Historical Society members Emman Ramaos-Jaramillo and Cody Weng at Glendale Cemetery clean the gravestones of soldiers killed during World War II.

Nutley-based scientist finds cause of some fungal infections and their possible treatments

A Nutley based scientist has discovered the cause of some life-threatening fungal infections and a way to combat them.

“Our findings will assist clinicians in their understanding of how these lifethreatening infections are emerging,” said Jigar Desai, who is an assistant member of the Center for Discovery and Innovation in Nutley and an assistant professor of medical sciences at the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. “These findings may help doctors and scientists alike better understand how some of these cases arise - and how to avoid them.”

Major fungal infections have become more common across the globe, and one unexpected phenomenon among the rise of fungi is life-threatening infections as a result of a complication of certain immunotherapies and small molecule kinase inhibitors, according to a press release from the CDI.

Desai has identified the cause of one such phenomenon, which will likely save lives into the future. His findings have been published in a paper “C5a-licensed phagocytes drive sterilizing immunity during systemic fungal infection” that appeared in the journal Cell on May 22.

Desai and a team of scientists established that the C5a protein, the penultimate effector constituent of the complement pathway, is key to the body's innate ability to fight systemic fungal infections. Additionally, the team identified enhanced complement pathway signature acts as a predictive biomarker for systemic candidiasis, which is a fungal infection caused by yeast.

With the use of animal models, patient data and sera, the team showed how C5a and its downstream effects are crucial for the body’s immune cells, specifically neutrophils and macrophages, to clear the fungus Candida albicans, when it has overtaken the body’s natural defenses.

Desai and the team - which includes colleagues from the National Institutes of

Health, Duke University, and Mount Sinai, among others - showed this in stages, both in animal models and in patient serum, by isolating what roles the C5 plays.

In addition to uncovering induced complement signature as a potential biomarker for systemic candidiasis, this work will be highly impactful in the clinical setting. Findings from this work emphasizes the importance of vigilant surveillance for opportunistic fungal infections, where early diagnosis can improve patient outcomes.

"Our findings establish a new paradigm in immunobiology, demonstrating for the first time the direct critical role of cell-intrinsic complement generation for effective host defense against Candida,” write the authors. "The multifaceted translation of our work shows promise for the development of individualized risk stratification and prognostication strategies in patients at-risk for invasive fungal disease."

Desai, a fungal expert who joined the CDI last year, has had other recent publications.

In two papers in 2022 he and colleagues showed a particular genetic deficiency may weaken certain people to the onslaught of a certain plant pathogenic fungus, and also explore how systemic candidiasis may actually carry enhanced mortality following the use of broadspectrum antibiotics. Those papers were published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, and Cell Host and Microbe.

“Jigar Desai is uncovering novel insights into life-threatening fungal diseases,” said David Perlin, Ph.D., chief scientific officer and executive vice president of the CDI, who is also an expert in fungal infections. “As we know, this is an emerging health problem, and it’s key to have his work drive our understanding forward.”

Website has Revolutionary War history for

Nutley, Belleville

A New Jersey native has put together an online resource for people to check out Revolutionary War history in their towns, including Nutley and Belleville.

Essex County has a rich Revolutionary War era history including George Washington and the Continental Army retreating through what are now Nutley and Belleville, and then encamped for several days in Newark. The Battle of Second River was fought a year later in what is now Belleville, according to a press release from historian Al Frazza..

“If you know where to look, you can

stand in the same places where this fascinating history occurred. You can walk in the footsteps of George Washington, visit graves of Revolutionary War veterans, and view monuments to the important events that took place here,” Frazza said.

RevolutionaryWarNewJersey.com is designed to be a comprehensive field guide to explore New Jersey’s rich Revolutionary War history, Frazza said.

It features photographs and information for 650 Revolutionary War historic sites, located in every corner of New Jer-

See REVOLUTIONARY, Page 13

LA T

LEGEND TITLE AGENCY.LLC

Nutley archer is dominating New Jersey

Nutley High School Rising Junior Alexander Mason Irwin had an impressive winter/spring indoor archery season, claiming 2 state championships in his division, according to NutleyAthletics.org.

Irwin’s season opened with a first place finish in the USA Archery New Jersey State indoor Championships shooting an almost perfect 297 out of 300.

He then went on to the NFAA Mid-Atlantic Sectionals where he shot another 297 earning him a ninth place finish, competing against archers from New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland and Delaware.

Irwin finished up his season with another first place finish in the New Jersey State Field Archery Association’s State Indoor Championships shooting a 293 out of 300. This marks his thrd year in a row claiming the top spot in New Jersey in this competition.

Photo Courtesy Nutley Athletics

Nutley High School senior Alexander Mason Irwin has won 2 state championships.

Photo Courtesy of Al Frazza In the Belleville-Reformed Church Cemetery, this bust of Washington has the names of Revolutionary War veterans buried there.

For Juneteenth, Historical Society cleans gravestones of ex-slaves, Civil War soldiers

The Belleville Historical Society observed Juneteenth in Belleville, Bloomfield and Montclair by cleaning gravestones. In Bloomfield and Montclair the gravestones of three individuals who were born into and had lived as slaves were cleaned and decorated.

Luvenia and Joseph Lloyd were slaves on a plantation in Barbara County, Alabama when they were married. They eventually moved north and lived in East Orange and are buried at Bloomfield Cemetery on Belleville Avenue.

Anthony Thompson was a slave in the household of Dr. Samuel Ward in Montclair. After being freed he moved to West

Orange and he is buried in Rosedale Cemetery in Montclair.

At St. Peter Cemetery in Belleville a team of young church volunteers cleaned the gravestones of all of the Union Army veterans buried there. More than 350,000 Union Army soldiers died in the war which brought an end to slavery.

Juneteenth commemorates the day, June 19, 1865, when Union Army Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas with 2,000 soldiers and announced the end of slavery in the rebellious southern states. Ironically slavery would continue that year in New Jersey until the end of December.

Photos Courtesy of Belleville Historical Society

Gathered around the grave of Civil War soldier John Barrett are, from left, are volunteers from St. Peter's, Emily Serrano, Johsselyn Pacheco, Ariana Negron, Michael Perrone, Noah Munoz, Mason Munoz, Joshua Talban and Nicholas Petrillo

Photos Courtesy of Belleville Historical Society

Above, Michael Perrone, Belleville Historical Society president, cleans the gravestone of Anthony Thompson. Below, The gravestone of Luvenda and Joseph Lloyd who were born as slaves in Alabama but moved to East Orange and were buried in Bloomfield.

WORSHIP CALENDAR

BAPTIST

B R OOKDALE C H R ISTIA N C HU RC 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

A Belleville elementary school student performed alongside students from around the world at Jordan Hall in Boston for the Boston Early Music Festival on June 11.

“We came all the way to Boston,” said Maya Herrera-Shimokawa who attends Belleville Elementary School 5. “It was

The Job Haines Difference

awesome to play in such a big concert hall with people from Brazil, The Netherlands, and all over the world in front of a big audience.”

Maya was part of Montclair Early Music’s RecorderKids program. The organization performs regularly in concert with adult musicians, according to a press release from the organization.

“I’m delighted that our young musicians are able to participate in this international event,” said Julienne Pape, founder and artistic director of Montclair Early Music. “What a wonderful experience for them. It’s our third year of participating in Boston Early Music’s Youth Program. During the pandemic, the festival was done virtually, and finally, this

support of our friendly staff and around-the-clock services and amenities.

• Assisted Living: A vibrant lifestyle with a helping hand.

• Long-Term Care: Highly skilled nursing care with an excellent ratio of staff to residents.

• Sub-Acute Rehab: State-of-the-art rehabilitation center on campus and open to the community.

• Respite Care: A great way for caregivers to take a break and try out our award-winning services for up to 30 days.

year, the children were able to play in person. Our mission is to give ALL children the opportunity to play an instrument. The recorder has a long history. It is part of every culture and there is a huge repertoire of music for recorders. It’s a lot more than ‘Hot Cross Buns’.”

MEM offers free and low cost lessons for adults and children. The program is partially funded by Investors Bank Foundation and the American Recorder Society. For more information about the Summer Camp and Fall after-school programs, send an email to info@montclairearlymusic.org.

Montclair Early Music is a nonprofit organization comprising amateur and professional musicians of all ages.

Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina

“Job Haines is the region’s leader in senior care and has been for generations. I wouldn’t want anyone

to care for Mom.”

on the right is Maya Herrera-Shimokawa with fellow musicians Avi Webber and Kimaya Sayles and Montclair Early Music Director Julienne Pape on the left.

County plans concerts, some with fireworks, during summertime

The 2023 Essex County Free Summer Music Concert Series will feature a diverse group of musicians and entertainers performing at locations throughout the county park system.

This year’s series features three concert and fireworks spectaculars, five concerts in Brookdale Park, 12 concerts throughout the county, and four cultural festivals, according to a press release from the county.

“Pack a blanket, enjoy the cool evening breeze, and dance to the sounds of classical, rock and roll, jazz, big band, Latin and more. We have an amazing line-up that is sure to entertain and impress,” said Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr.

The SummerMusic Concert Series is sponsored by Rose Squared Productions and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey. The series is also made possible, in part, by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State.

Over the course of 12 weeks this summer, there will be 24 different events fea-

turing local and international acts in jazz, rock and roll, big band, reggae and more. Some of the concerts took place in June.

Concerts are held at accessible sites. Persons who require special accommodations or assistance are asked to call at least two weeks prior to the concert to alert staff as to their needs. Admission to the concerts is free. For more information, call the Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs at 973 268-3500.

The remaining 2023 concert series schedule is as follows:

• Friday, July 7, at 7:30 p.m. in Brookdale Park in Bloomfield/Montclair: 80s vs. 90s.

• Saturday, July 8, from 12 noon to 8 p.m. in Monte Irvin Orange Park, Orange: Jazz and Food Truck Festival.

• Tuesday, July 11, at 7 p.m. in Watsessing Park, Bloomfield: Epic Soul.

• Wednesday, July 12, at 7 p.m. in Ivy Hill Park in Newark: Casplash.

• Friday, July 14, at 7:30 p.m. in Brookdale Park in Bloomfield/Montclair: The Duprees.

• Tuesday, July 18, at 7 p.m. in Vailsburg Park in Newark: Smooth.

• Wednesday, July 19, at 7 p.m. in Riverfront Park in Newark: Afri-Carib.

• Friday, July 21, at 7:30 p.m. in Brookdale Park in Bloomfield/Montclair: Frontiers: Country Music Night with Kickin’ Nash.

• Tuesday, July 25, at 7 p.m. in Cedar Grove Park, Cedar Grove: Stan Zizka’s Del-Satins.

• Wednesday, July 26th at 7 p.m.in Grover Cleveland Park in Caldwell/Essex Fells: Here’s Elton.

• Friday, July 28, at 7:30 p.m. in Brookdale Park in Bloomfield/Montclair: Launch Band: A Tribute to Styx, Queen and Boston.

• Wednesday, Aug. 2, at 7 p.m. in Belleville Park in Belleville: New Power Soul.

• Friday, Aug. 4, at 7:30 p.m. in Brookdale Park in Bloomfield/Montclair: Event Horizon.

• Saturday, Aug. 5, from 12 noon to 8 p.m. in Monte Irvin Orange Park in

Orange: Caribbean Festival.

• Friday, Aug. 11, at 7:30 p.m. in Eagle Rock Reservation in West Orange: K Brown Express.

• Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, August 2, from 12 noon to 8 p.m. in Monte Irvin Orange Park in Orange: Latino Festival.

Revolutionary War website

(Continued from Page 10)

sey. Essex County is featured prominently, with photos and write-ups for more than 30 historic sites, located in towns such as Belleville, Nutley, Orange, and West Orange.

Frazza said he is responsible for all of the research, writing, and photography on the website, created over thousands of hours between 2009 and 2017. Frazza has also published a book about the years he spent exploring New Jersey’s history, titled “State of Revolution: My SevenAnd-A-Half-Year Journey Through Revolutionary War New Jersey.”

AJ

Rail trail through Essex County takes steps toward realization

The Greenway project that will turn a long-dormant 8.63-mile rail line that runs through Essex County into a linear park recently took another step forward with the awarding of some bids.

The trail will traverse Essex and Hudson Counties, averaging 100 feet in width and encompassing approximately 135 acres. The Greenway passes through numerous, diverse commercial, industrial, and residential neighborhoods in eight New Jersey communities including Montclair, Glen Ridge, Bloomfield, Belleville, Newark, Kearny, Secaucus, and Jersey City, and crossing both the Hackensack and Passaic Rivers in the process.

Last month, the state Department of Environmental Protection awarded four work orders to consultant firms to assist the state with the planning, design, and development activities. Work is to be completed by Aug. 18 or Sept.1, depending on the task.

The work orders seek to further certain planning and design activities to facilitate the creation of comprehensive master planning and detailed design documents for the development of the 9-mile abandoned rail corridor, according to information from DEP.

The Department is seeking proposals for an initial community and stakeholder engagement plan and development of recommendations for the phased development of the Greenway, specifically

focused on identification of the largest feasible contiguous portion of the Greenway appropriate for immediate development for public use to maximize value delivered to the public during development of the comprehensive Master Plan, the DEP said.

The Department is also seeking proposals for a safety and security needs assessment which will inform the development of detailed recommendations, including costs, for short-term, interim steps the Department should take to address public safety and security of the Greenway prior to the development of the comprehensive Master Plan.

Also, DEP is soliciting quotes to assess and design stormwater management infrastructure for integration in a manner that benefits its host communities by increasing capture of existing stormwater and decreasing excessive discharge rates during major storm events.

With over 7,850 residents per square mile – approximately 1.5 million people in the surrounding area – the Greenway seeks to provide outdoor recreation and alternative transportation opportunities to over 16 percent of New Jersey’s population.

The Greenway project seeks to create a linear multi-modal recreational and transit corridor enabling seamless walking, biking and transit opportunities between Montclair and Jersey City, while serving

See TRAIL, Page 15

Photos Courtesy of state DEP

The former rail bed, above and below, will be turned into a linear park as part of the Greenway Project that is currently underway.

Access Link users can utilize Lyft, Uber

NJ Transit is partnering with Uber and Lyft on a pilot program allowing Access Link users to opt in to receiving rides through the two services.

The goal of this pilot program, called the Access Link Riders’ Choice Pilot Program, is to reduce wait and trip times while maintaining Access Link prices and the reservation process to which customers are accustomed.

“The Riders’ Choice Pilot Program will improve Access Link reliability, while offering additional transportation options to customers of this crucial service,” said New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner and NJ TRANSIT Board Chair Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti.

Trail will go from Montclair to Jersey City

(Continued from Page 14)

as a catalyst for environmental improvements and economic development in the adjacent communities.

It stands to become a destination unto itself as a place for exercise, recreation and access to the great outdoors. The DEP anticipates that the project will spur new enterprises and support existing businesses in areas in need of economic growth and redevelopment.

The Greenway will connect residents to parks, schools, hospitals, and business districts, in addition to offering com-

muters a way to bypass some of New Jersey’s most congested roadways.

The Greenway passes near the Newark light rail and NJ Transit’s Frank R. Lautenberg Secaucus Junction train station, which provide direct access to New York’s Penn Station. Currently the Greenway is an undeveloped nine-mile piece of land that is closed to public access. Closure is necessary for public safety, to allow the Department to complete remediation and clean up while we undertake a public planning process for park improvements, DEP said.

With this new partnership, Uber and Lyft drivers will now be available to supplement Access Link services as needed only if the customer opts in to utilize the pilot program, according to a press release from NJ Transit.

Customers who do not opt into the pilot program will continue to have all of their trips serviced by the current Access Link providers. Participation in the pilot program is strictly voluntary.

Prior to scheduling a trip, Access Link customers in the Riders’ Choice Pilot Program must update their profile to indicate which rideshare service, Uber or Lyft, they would like to use. Customers also have the option to indicate they have no preference and are willing to utilize both providers, the release said.

Access Link is NJ TRANSIT's American with Disabilities Act (ADA) paratransit program established to provide public transportation to people with disabilities who are unable to utilize local bus services.

Use of the Uber or Lyft app is not necessary, and customers will not be required to contact either company directly. The determination to dispatch Uber or Lyft in lieu of an Access Link vehicle will be made based upon the best available scheduling option.

The pilot program has begun in Essex, Morris, Union and other counties. Further details on potential expansion will be announced at a future date.

The area covered by Access Link is comparable to NJ TRANSIT's Local Fixed Route bus system. The service can be used to travel to any destination – for any reason – as long as the origin and destination are within the Access Link service area. Because Access Link is a “shared ride” service, other customers may be picked up during a scheduled ride if their location is on the way to the requested destination.

“By adding Uber and Lyft as travel options, we will improve the Access Link travel experience for our customers while making it more cost effective for NJ Transit,” said NJ TRANSIT President and CEO Kevin S. Corbett.

Jen Shepherd, global head of transit at Uber said the partnership with NJ TRANSIT will help cut down on wait time and improve reliability for Access Link riders.

Pictured here is an area of the greenway that will be turned from an unused railroad bed into a trail for biking, hiking and other uses.

Blood and platelets urgently needed this summer

An urgent appeal for blood and platelet donations has been made to deal with a serious shortage at hospitals throughout the state.

Life-saving blood and platelet donations are given to patients in a wide range of circumstances including cancer care, trauma events such as car accidents and home accidents, childbirth and mass casualty events.

Historically, inventories of blood and platelets drop during the summer months when donors are on vacation or busy with family activities. With schools and colleges closed there are less large group opportunities to give blood, depleting the blood supply greatly.

Although the need for blood, especially Type O, is large, the need for single donor platelets is expected to reach critical levels by the end of June and continue throughout the summer. Many cancer patients depend on platelet transfusions to help them regain their strength, fight infections, and recover from cancer treatment as well as to prevent life-threatening hemorrhages if platelet levels drop too low.

Some patients, especially those who have had a bone marrow transplant or

who are being treated for leukemia, may require daily platelet transfusions for several weeks.

“Donations have slowed down, and hospitals are in dire need of blood and platelets now that school is out and people are heading out on summer vacations,” said Sally Wells, Business Development and Community Liaison for Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital’s (RWJUH) Blood Donor Center.

“Last year, cancer patients treated throughout the system required roughly 25,000 units of platelets for necessary transfusions. Blood and platelets can’t be manufactured, they can only come from donations. Every donation is important, and by taking the time to donate blood or platelets you’re able to help those who desperately need it.”

Here’s how you can donate: Schedule an appointment at a fixed site Donor Rooms:

RWJBarnabas Health has two fixed locations, one at RWJUH in New Brunswick, located on the 4th floor of the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Clinical Academic Building (CAB) at 125 Paterson Street in New Brunswick,

and one at RWJUH Somerset, located at 110 Rehill Avenue in Somerville. Both Donor Centers are open Monday - Friday and select Saturdays.

To further encourage donations, there are special summer giveaways being held at the RWJUH Donor Center in New Brunswick such as $10 gift cards for blood donors and $20 gift cards for platelet donors as a thank you gift. Also, t-shirts and entry into bi-weekly raffles to win a family fun package to Jenkinson’s Pavilion in Point Pleasant Beach are available. Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset is offering $10 gift cards to all type O blood and platelet donors. Additionally, they are offering raffle drawings monthly for a $25 ShopRite gift card.

To make an appointment at a fixed RWJUH Donor Room or to find a blood drive location near you, please visit: https://www.rwjuhdonorclub.org. or call 732-235-8100 ext. 221.

There is also a drive scheduled at the Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center on Thursday, Aug. 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Islami Auditorium Side B, 94 Old Short Hills Road, Livingston NJ

Red Cross blood drives this summer

The American Red Cross has blood drives scheduled at the following locations and times:

Monday, July 10, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Cambria Hotel West Orange, 12 Rooney Circle, West Orange.

Tuesday, July 18, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., Nutley Masonic Lodge 25, 175 Chestnut St., Nutley.

Thursday, July 20,from 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Montclair Community Church, 143 Watchung Ave.

Saturday, Aug. 5, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Millburn High School, 462 Millburn Ave. Millburn.

Monday, Aug. 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Cambria Hotel West Orange, 12 Rooney Circle, West

To give blood, go to RedCrossBlood.org, select the appropriate event and make an appointment.

If you don’t feel well on the day of your donation, please call to cancel.

You may be deferred from donating blood or platelets if you have lived in or traveled to a malaria-risk country in the past three years.

healthy living

Hospital exec. is ‘CEO to Know’ How to

A hospital executive at Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville has been recognized by Becker’s as “2023 Women Presidents and CEOs to Know.”

This list showcases the female hospital presidents and CEOs who are expanding access to care, promoting inclusivity and diversity, spearheading new initiatives, and helping to close the gender gap in healthcare leadership, according to a press release from RWJBarnabas, which said it had three honorees on the list including:

Mary Ellen Clyne, president, and CEO of Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville. As president and CEO, she oversees all initiatives supporting the delivery of patient care, financial stability, strategic planning, capital improvements, renovations, new construction, quality, performance improvement, patient experience, patient safety and community relations for the medical center.

Clyne has been recognized with a wide array of awards and recognitions such as the Ecuador American Chamber of Commerce, the Township of Bloomfield, the Belleville Township and the Nutley Board

of Commissioners.

Recently, Clyne received an Outstanding Heroes Award from Luis A. Quintana, council president/councilman-at-large in Newark.

Nancy DiLiegro, president and CEO for RWJBarnabas Health Trinitas Regional Medical Center in Elizabeth. DiLiegro is responsible for ensuring high-quality care delivery to thousands of patients each day.

Deanna Sperling, RN. President and CEO of RWJBarnabas Health Behavioral Health Center in Toms River. Under her leadership, the system’s behavioral health services place an emphasis on training staff to deliver trauma-informed care and treatment, in which patients are asked what has happened to them, rather than what is wrong, a shift that underscores respect, kindness and compassion for all.

“I am proud of these three visionary leaders for the work they do every day to deliver exceptional care to the communities we serve,” said Mark E. Manigan, President and CEO of RWJBarnabas Health. “This recognition from Becker’s is well deserved.”

control asthma

(StatePoint) Asthma, a lung disease that makes breathing difficult for over 24 million Americans, is often exacerbated by air pollution and the effects of climate change.

However, understanding how the environment impacts asthma can help you minimize your exposure to air pollutants and prepare for extreme weather events. The American Lung Association is offering these important insights:

1. Outdoor Air Pollution. While outdoor air pollution can make breathing more difficult for everyone, it’s particularly harmful to those with asthma, causing symptoms and increased need for medical attention, and to children, whose lungs are still growing and who breathe in more air per pound than adults.

2. Climate Change. The effects of climate change increase air pollutants like ozone, particle pollution pollens, molds from increased rainfall and floods and smoke from wildfires. Smog acts like a sunburn on your lungs and may trigger an asthma attack. Before doing any activities outside, check the pollution level in your area by visiting Airnow.gov.

3. Wildfires. In some areas of the coun-

when air is bad

try, climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of wildfires, and extending wildfire season. Wildfires produce smoke that contains particle pollution, consisting of dangerous particles tiny enough to travel deep into the lungs and sometimes even into the bloodstream.

To get your asthma under control, check out the American Lung Association’s many resources, found at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asthma, which align with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s official EXHALE strategies.

Raiders spike down stellar season

By Joe Ragozzino Sports Editor

The Nutley High School boys volleyball team enjoyed an amazing season in just its second year in existence.

The Raiders, under second-year head coach Kevin Reilly, finished with a 20-5 record, including winning the Super Essex Conference–Colonial Division title. They went 15-2 in the SEC and 10-0 in the division.

“I cannot begin to stress how proud of this team I am,” Reilly said. “This group of young men displayed maturity beyond their years, and to be honest it makes sense. A second-year program finding success like this is rare and it takes a full effort from every player, at every level, during every match, and every practice. This team left everything they had on the floor every match, and I'll forever be thankful to have had the opportunity to coach them.

“There’s a feeling of ownership over this program for these boys because they truly are the forefathers of it. They helped to start it last year and now in just two short seasons they've taken it to a place that many programs are never fortunate enough to be. That’s part of what made this team so close and so special – it really felt like a family. What makes me happiest for this group in particular, is that when they come back to visit NHS in the future, they'll be able to see a ‘Boys Volleyball’ banner hanging in the gym with their 2023 championship etched on it.”

The Raiders were the No. 2 seed in the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association’s North Jersey, Group 2 state tournament. They defeated No. 15 seed Teaneck 25-19, 25-13 in the first round on Thursday, May 25, and lost to No. 7 seed Ramapo 25-21, 25-15 in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, May 31.

Here are the seniors on the team:

Joey Duca, Alex Tramontana, Tre Foda, Jimmy Valderamma, Pat Smyth, Mark Tapia, Carl Villarin and Julian Jansen.

Indeed, Reilly was elated to coach these seniors.

“When thinking about next season, it’s hard to imagine our practices and matches without the eight seniors we’re graduating, but that’s the reality of high school sports. These seniors gave everything they had and set the culture for what this program will be for years to come. I’m so excited to see where life takes them, they’re incredible individuals and they all have such bright futures.”

Reilly is looking forward to next season: “Next season we’ll be returning three of our starters (rising senior Ilhan Ilhan, and rising juniors Gavin Warburton and Shane Castellanos). These three bring so much to our team both on and off the

court, and it’s comforting to have their veteran leadership help to transition some new players to our varsity rotation.

“As for those remaining open starting

slots next season, I’m excited to see what the offseason holds for the players in our program. We have some players with so much potential, that a proper work ethic

Baseball and softball players receive Super Essex Conference accolades

The Nutley High School baseball and softball teams featured several players who earned All–Super Essex Conference–American Division honors, as selected by the divisional coaches.

Here are the NHS baseball honorees:

Second team: senior Brandon Lucia.

Honorable mention: senior Justin Cifelli and junior Erik Thompson.

Here are the NHS softball honorees:

First team: senior Robin Niland.

Second team: sophomore Lola Thompson.

Honorable mention: seniors Mia DiPiano Victoria Rutnik.

Notes: The NHS baseball team finished 7-15, but capped the season with a 3-2 win over a highly-regarded Old Tappan team. The NHS softball team finished 1117, but won six of its final nine games.

in the offseason can really help give them a jump to be prepared for the varsity level of play.”

Here are the NHS individual stat leaders:

Kills – Gavin Warburton – 214 (second in the SEC).

Assists – Joey Duca – 490 (first in the SEC).

Blocks – Alex Tramontana – 50 (fifth in the SEC)

Aces – Duca – 48 (second in the SEC); Waburton – 46 (third in the SEC).

Individual accomplishments:

All–SEC–Colonial Division:

First team:

• Gavin Warburton.

• Alex Tramontana.

• Joey Duca.

Honorable mention:

• Ilhan Ilhan.

Notes: Duca and Tramontana will both continue their volleyball careers at Ramapo

College next year.

Photo Courtesy of Kevin Reilly

The Nutley High School boys volleyball team gathers for a group pose. Top row from left are assistant coach Amy Gewecke, players Tre Foda, Carl Villarin, Mark Tapia, Julian Jansen and head coach Kevin Reilly; bottom row are players Alex Tramontana, Pat Smyth, Jimmy Valderrama, Ilhan Ilhan, Joey Duca, Shane Castellanos and Gavin Warburton.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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.

COMEDY

LADIES OF LAUGHTER, “The Funny & Fabulous Tour,” on July 27 at 7:30 p.m. This night of hilarity will feature 2016 Ladies of Laughter Newcomer winner, Jocelyn Chia, and 2012 Ladies of Laughter winner, Robin Fox., South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

COMEDIAN SHANE GILLIS BRINGS HIS

“SHANE GILLIS LIVE” TOUR TO NJPAC on Friday, July 28 at 7 p.m. NJPAC, Prudential Hall, One Center St. Tickets: $39 to $49.

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. 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.

LADIES OF LAUGHTER, “The Funny & Fabulous Tour” on Oct. 19, at 7:30 p.m., , South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

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.

LECTURES

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.

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..

MUSIC

DENI BONET AND CHRIS FLYNN WILL BE PERFORMING AT THE BLOOMFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY ON JULY 8 AT 2 P.M. Bonet is a singer/songwriter and virtuoso violinist while Flynn is an accomplished guitarist, according to a press release from the library, which said that together they play quirky melodic and fun folk rock for all ages. The library is located at 90 Broad St. in Bloomfield.

THE WEST ORANGE COMMUNITY BAND will play its first summer concert of 2023 on Tuesday, July 11 in the Clipper Pavilion, Cherry Lane, South Mountain Reservation in West Orange. Rain location: Liberty Middle School. The summer concert theme is “Summer Travels” featuring music from across the country and around the world.

REVOLUTIONARY WORLD MUSIC ENSEMBLE SHAKTI WILL CONTINUE TO DISCOVER AND EXPLORE THE MUSICAL COMMONGROUND BRIDGING EAST AND WEST at NJPAC on Sunday, Aug. 20, at 8 p.m.. Tickets can be purchased by visiting njpac.org, calling 888-466-5722 or visiting the NJPAC box office at 1 Center St. in Newark.

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.

HORIZON SOUNDS OF THE CITY 2023, A FREE LIVE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES TAKING PLACE UNDER THE STARS during the summer every Thursday Night starting July 13 and running through Aug. 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. on the NJPAC Campus at Chambers Plaza, 1 Center St. Newark.

On July 13, DJ FELIX HERNANDEZ kicks off NJPAC's Horizon Sounds of the City with his annual Rhythm Revue Dance Party;

On July 20, THE SUGARHILL GANG;

On July 27, NEWARK SALUTES ITS OWN in a talent showcase featuring local artists from each ward;

On Aug. 3, EDGAR JOEL AND ANTHONY COLÓN, who made their debut on salsa scene in the ‘90s, with songs like “En las Nubes,” “Hasta El Sol De Hoy,” and “Hechizo De Luna.”

On Aug. 10, KURTIS BLOW, considered one of the most influential Founding Fathers of Hip Hop, will take to the stage.

On Aug. 17, KINDRED THE FAMILY SOUL who will share their explosive music of positivity wrapped in a funky, neo-classic soul sound. 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.   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) 313-2787.

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, South Orange Perform-

“

ing 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.

THE WEEKLINGS, “The Music of The Beatles & More” on Oct. 13 at 8 p.m., South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

THEATER

SPRING AWAKENING,” A COMING-OF-AGE ROCK MUSICAL WITH MUSIC BY DUNCAN SHEIK AND BOOK AND LYRICS BY STEVEN SATER, will be performed at the Vanguard Theater in Montclair. The show is scheduled to run to July 16, Thursdays through Sundays with two shows on Sundays. Tickets: $35 and up, including fees. Purchase: bit.ly/ticketsVTC or by emailing the Vanguard Theater box office at boxoffice@dreamvtc.org Recommended for ages 12 and over as themes include suicide, abortion and sexual awakening.

AWARD-WINNING WRITER JOSEPH

VITALE’S “SUNSET PARK” —kicks off the Summer Season July 6-16 at the Theater Project, Burgdorff Cultural Center, 10 Durand Road, Maplewood. Tickets are available online at TheTheaterProject.org or by calling the box office, 908-809-8865

KALEIDOSCOPE KABARET, SONGS AND SHORT PLAYS FROM THE THEATER PROJECT’S PLAYWRIGHTS WORKSHOP AND YOUNG PLAYWRIGHTS COMPETITION, July 28-30. Theater Project, Burgdorff Cultural Center, 10 Durand Road, Maplewood. Show times are Thursday-Saturday at 8 p.m. with a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee. Single ticket prices are $32 for general admission, $25 for seniors and students. Senior Sunday prices—the first Sunday of each play performance—are $20.

The Nutley High School Class of 2023 graduated on June 15.

Marcella Blancato

Isabelle Anderson

Jacob Caney

Sarah Nugiel

Hamsini Radhakrishnan

Yuna Mehdizadeh

Annie Thomas

Skyler Yero

Siri Bhat

Arista Buddhani

Silia Dimasi

Rebecca Reid

Brianna Abreu Polanco

Logan Acosta

Juan Aguayo

Leriza N. Alarcon

Farah Alalwan

Ava Algieri

Humberto Aranda

Carmine Argenziano

Jade Armstrong

Juliana Stephanie Arnigo

Alyssa Arroyo

Allen Baez

Jordan Baluyot

Ryan Barnes

George Bartulovich

Christian Baselice

Ava Baunhuber

Haniel Becerra

Kaylee Bellenger

Nicholas Bello

Stanislav Benda

Christopher Bibbo

Nicholas Blozen

Isabella Bonilla

Amanda Bordei

Marcelo Henrique Brito

Jack Bumpus

Francesca Califano

Caley Campbell

Jazel Campomanes

Daniel Carchia

Julianne Carson

Haylee Casas

Annabella Celso

Nina Chagas

JiaHao Chen

Emma Chimento

David Christman

Elisabeth Christman

Alyssa Cifelli

Joseph Cifelli

Justin Cifelli

Cameron Coffaro

Nicholas Conca

Uriel Concepcion

Aimee Cosme

Samantha Costantino

Marina Costanza

Ben Coulson

Veronica Cruz

Carliana Del Guercio

Nicholas Della Luna

Santino Della Luna

Kylie DelMaestro

Mia DiPiano

Angelina Dries

Donte DuBose-Carter

Joseph Duca

Angelica Duffy

Yahya Elnaggar

Daniel Escudero Aviles

Victor Sharif EsHaq

Maya Farkhiev

Ava Farro

Giuliana Fazio

Gabriella Feliciano

Victor Ferreira

Valeria Flores

Tresor Foda

David Follet

Jenna Furtea

Ally Garcia

Jordan Garcia

Andrea Gavidia

Sarah Gibney

Samantha Gil

Franco Graffeo

Colin Gramb

Reilley Granelli

Connor Harlow

Anthony Henriques

Kendra Hergenhan

Siona Hernandez Wobick

Frida Hernandez-Garcia

Kate Hickey

Taylor Hughes

Zachary Ibrahim

Camille Ilog

Joseph Immerso

Julian Jansen

William Jennings

Matthew Jimenez

Avian Josephs

Ardea Karaj

Najdeep Kaur

Andrew Kiernan

Emma Kirby

Nead Kojic

Mariah Koster

Lily Kremer

Natalie Kruse

Javier Labeach

Derek Lanza

Sofia Laracuente

Gianna Lembo

Alexavian Leon

Almira Lewis

Clayden Leybovich

Morgan Llaneza

Brandon Lucia

Ryan Lui

Alyanna Katrina L. Maglaqui

Ammar Mahmoud

Mitchell Mainiero

Isabel Maldonado

Kaitlin Manalang

Juliette Mansolillo-Marron

Fatinah Marcano

Alexandria Maslag

Gianna Masters

Maria Mathew

Angelina Matto

Mia Mazariego

Erin McEwen

Joseph McLaughlin

Hennessy Mendez

Jerry Mendieta

Gabrielle Mercado

Anthony Mielnicki

Ava Minichini

Liana Minichini

Marissa Minichini

Ryan Miskell

Julia Misner

Sophie Modebadze

Gustavo Morales

Natalie Morris

Noelia Murillo

Jacqueline Napolitano

Emilio Nardone

Cristian Navas

Eric Negron

Cassandra Nesta

Madison Netzke

Matthew Newmark

Richard Nguyen

Andrew Nicolette

Robin Niland

Matthew Nocerino

Nadia Nole

Ian Novoa

Gabriela Nunes

Morgan O'Brien

Katie O'Connor

Declan O'Driscoll

Gemma O'Farrill

Isabella Ortega

Taylor Panzer

Ashley Paronett

Richard Paronett

Robert Paronett

Alex Peralta

Ayanna Perez

Emily Perez

Emily Phu

Vivian Phu

Anthony Pinal

Jenna Pomponio

Jack Ponzoni

Steven Puerto

Christopher Quijada

Adrianna Quinn

Photos by Steve Ellmore

Students make their way onto the field at the start of the graduation ceremony.

Salutatorian Jacob A. Caney

See

FUTURE

ions Congratulations

The master technicians at D & L Automotive specialize in complete car care for your foreign and domestic vehicles. Our goal is to keep your vehicle running like new and minimize the time you spend in the auto repair shop. The specialists at our family-owned and operated facility will make sure that you never experience another road-side emergency.

973-667-4688

Future awaits the Class of 2023

(Continued from Page 20)

Conor Quinn

Corbin Rakauckas

Maria Ramirez

Ryan Rashiq

Annabel Reeves

Kristen Reilly

Megan Riccardi

Isa Rios

Caroline Ritacco

Angelica Rivera

Justice Rivera

Xavier Rivera

Vincenzo Rizzuto

Catalena Robson

Anthony Rodier

Kayla Rodriguez

Marc Rodriguez

Ella Romonowski

Alaina Rueda

Victoria Rutnik

Ella Sacchetti

Suhayla Salcedo

Emely Saldana

Kimberly Salgado

Alana Sanabria

Evan Sanchez

Argenis Santana

Tania Santiago

Daniella Santomauro

Genesis Santos Baez

Janderson Santos Sanchez

Keaton Sarro

Brandon Scherrer

Samantha Schley

Jakob Schmitt

Gregory Scuello

Stacy Shang

Caroline Shanley

Samuel Skonc

Donald Slane

Caitlynn Smart

Patrick Smyth

Sofia Snoha

Thomas Sobieski

Ian Soto

Sabrina Sperry

Erica Spina

Archer St. Amant

Nicolette Stefanelli

Mario Stoppiello

Malkaan Syeda

Sara Tan

Marcos Tapia

Andrea Thabet

Alexandria Timchak

Isabelle Tirado

Fernanda Toledo

Jorge Torres

Zared Torres

Alexander Tramontana

Isabella Tramontana

Jack Tucker

Miranda Turowski

Stefania Ugliarolo

Jimmy Valderrama

Gabriela Varas

A'aliyha Vargas- Rivera

Amanda Vasquez

Katie Veltre

Carl Adrian Villarin

IsabelVilchez

Natalie Vitiello

Nicholas Volpe

Garret Wallace

Madison Walsh

Jhamiel Webley

Kalvin Wong

Willem Wuebben

Veronia Youssef

Christina Zhang

Nicholas Zheng

Paul Ziek

Michael Zitola

Photo by Steve Ellmore

From left, Emma Kirby, Arista Buddhani, Rebecca Reid, and Gabriella Feliciano.