Helping our veterans
BELLEVILLE POST BHS to debut girls flag football
By Joe Ragozzino Sports Editor
There’s no mistaking that girls flag football has been the rage over the past few years nationwide.
TV commercials about the sport were shown during football season, particularly during the Super Bowl, giving inspiration to young girls.
Belleville High School girls were especially moved, evidenced by the strong turnout for the new BHS girls flag football program this spring.
High school girls flag football in New Jersey began a few years ago on a club level, with schools competing in conference vying to play in the state playoffs. A state champion has been crowned since its inception, with the championship games at MetLife Stadium and the New York Jets facility. This year’s state final will be hosted by the Jets.
More schools have added the sport each year, and the latest was Belleville.
Brian Antab, the BHS boys varsity head football coach, is the head coach of
the BHS girls flag football team.
“I am very excited about this program,” he said recently. “We currently have about 50 girls signed up and attending practices regularly. Throughout this first week, I have had additional girls coming up to me each day interested in joining. The girls are extremely excited about playing flag football. Every day after practice, the girls are looking to keep working and trying to get better. They are picking up the skills of the game quickly and their excitement and work ethic has a lot to do with that.
“My main goal for this season is for every girl who is a part of this program to learn the game of flag football and enjoy themselves while learning. Winning can make things more enjoyable, so we are striving to be competitive each and every time we step on the field. Football has done a lot for me personally throughout my life and I am extremely happy that the rise in popularity of flag football is giving these girls the opportunity to have those experiences as well.”
Belleville competes in the Super Foot-
ball Conference. They had their first scrimmage on March 21 at Kent Place in Summit and another scrimmage at Orange High School on March 25. Their regular season debut was scheduled for March 31 against West Orange at home. The New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association expects a proposal to sanction the sport this spring, with a vote expected in the spring of 2026. If it is approved as a sanctioned sport, the NJSIAA will create an official state tournament for 2027.
Currently, girls can play girls flag football and another spring sport. But if the sport is officially sanctioned, then girls flag football will be deemed a "strenuous" sport, which means flag football players can not play another spring sport.
The following is the rest of their schedule:
• April 9: at Millburn, 6 p.m.
• April 15: vs. Livingston, 4:15 p.m.
• April 22: at Irvington, 5 p.m.
• April 29: vs. Columbia, 4 p.m.
Photos Courtesy of Brian Antab
Girls Flag Football Head Coach Brian Antab, who is also the BHS boys varsity coach, speaks to the team during a practice at Belleville Municipal Stadium.
Junior Police Academy seeking new recruits
The Belleville Junior Police Academy will run its Summer Course from June 23 through June 27.
This academy is open to boys and girls currently in sixth and seventh grades that are residents of Belleville.
The objectives of the academy are:
Provide an overview of the criminal justice field and its components;
Have special guests and specialized police units share their knowledge;
Develop teamwork, self-confidence, and enhanced communication skills;
Conduct both classroom and hands-on training, crime scene analysis, first aid, and physical training;
On Friday, June 27 at 1 p.m., there will be a formal graduation ceremony for all participants.
The program will take place from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. All participants should arrive at the new Belleville Indoor Training Facility located at 522 Cortlandt St. for a prompt 9 a.m. start, with a brown bag lunch and water bottle. Dismissal will be at 3:30 p.m. There will be no supervision available after 3:30 p.m.
Class size and graduation may be subject to limitations based upon building code restrictions. Applications will be accepted on a first come first serve basis.
Interested recruits should return the application by May 1.
The application is available on the townswhip website: https://www.bellevillenj.org.
BPD Officer of the Month Ace Estrada
The Belleville Police Department recognized Officer Ace Estrada as February’s Officer of the Month for his outstanding dedication and professionalism. Estrada demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills and deescalation tactics during a critical incident, ensuring the safety of a victim and children present while preventing further escalation. His thorough investigation, empathy, and professional approach not only minimized trauma for those involved but also fostered cooperation from the actor and their family, ultimately preventing the need for additional resources and potential criminal charges. As a valued member of the Emergency Response Team, Estrada consistently displays the highest standards of law enforcement, making a significant impact on both the department and the community he serves.
Photo courtesy of BPD
Sons of the American Legion help overlooked vets
By Rusty Myers Adjutant, Sons of the American Legion Squadron
BELLEVILLE
105, Belleville
— Sons of The American Legion (SAL) Squadron 105 of Belleville voted to donate $1,000 to the Detachment Commander’s Project at their February meeting, with this being the fifth year that the Sons have supported the state commander’s annual project.
“Gentleman, I hear a lot of good things about this squadron …you guys do great work, and continue to do great work,” said 2024-2025 Detachment of NJ Commander Rich Hodum in addressing the squadron membership. “You continue to help us [the detachment] grow and move forward.”
Hodum, who is from Lakewood Squadron 166, attended Belleville’s meeting in February, along with Detachment Vice Commander Bill “Murph” Murphy who is from Brick Township Squadron 348. They attended the Monday meeting to discuss their priorities and initiatives at the detachment level. The detachment is the state-level organization of the SAL, administering New Jersey’s 160-plus squadrons.
Each year, the Detachment Commander runs a project, either on his own or in conjunction with the rest of the New Jersey Legion and Auxiliary leadership. This year’s project is called “The Forgotten Veteran Project.”
The project’s goal is $25,000, earmarked to help veterans who live in New Jersey who are in homes outside of the
Photo courtesy of Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105
Members of Sons of The American Legion (SAL) Squadron 105 present a check to Detachment of NJ Commander Rich Hodum, center, for the Detachment Commanders Project.
Veteran’s Affairs system. The project calls for putting $5,000 into five homes throughout the state, to purchase things that our veterans need to make their lives a little better.
“As you know, no veteran should ever be forgotten and we are taking that on this year”, reads the project challenge letter drafted by Commander’s Project Chairman Nick Wingler. “The Detachment of New Jersey is bringing this project to
those who sometimes get overlooked or get lost in the shuffle of our busy lives.”
After listening to the detachment commander speaking about the project, the squadron voted to donate $1,000 in the tradition of supporting our state commander’s projects over the years.
Last year, Squadron 105 gave $1,000 to 2023-24 Detachment Commander Keith Barnes’ project which built an outdoor recreation area at the Paramus Vet-
Belleville recognized for efforts to keep its residents healthy
BELLEVILLE — The township has once again been recognized by a statewide program for its continued efforts to improve the health and wellness of residents through innovative programs in areas such as exercise, healthy eating and mental health education and awareness.
Belleville has been selected as a “2024 Healthy Town” – the highest designation awarded through the annual statewide Mayors Wellness Campaign, the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute has announced.
The Mayors Wellness Campaign is a program of the Quality Institute in partnership with the New Jersey League of Municipalities.
The Healthy Town designation represents a significant step forward for Belleville, which earned the “Healthy Town to Watch” designation in 2023.
It was a busy year in Belleville in regards to wellness. In partnership with Clara Maass Medical Center, RWJBarnabas Health and local organizations, the township provided free health screenings and vaccination clinics. In addition, a collaboration with Kean University in Union Township supported student mental health by integrating social-emotional learning and family resources into the community.
“The 2024 Healthy Town designation illustrates that Belleville continues to focus on programs that help keep our residents healthy and well,” Belleville Mayor Michael Melham said. “From growing fruits and vegetables in our community garden, to promoting active lifestyles by expanding our parks and open spaces, to expanding our annual Green Fair, we remain committed to identifying ways we can help Belleville residents live healthier and happier lives.”
Each year, communities participating in the campaign com-
plete a comprehensive Healthy Town application outlining the research they’ve done to identify their community health needs and explaining how they have organized their local campaign committee.
The application also highlights the actions the towns have taken to make their communities healthier places to live, work, age and play.
Gabrielle Bennett-Meany, the president of the board of education and Green Team, praised the townships Health and Wellness Committee, which is made up of dedicated municipal staff members representing the recreation, health, police, fire and public works departments as well as the Belleville Public School District and Student Health and Wellness Department.
“This group and the interaction they have with the community and residents of all ages is a testament that the township is deeply committed to public health and safety,” she said. “We will continue initiatives to raise awareness about healthy behaviors and lifestyle choices, creating a supportive environment, community engagement, and a focus on preventative health measures, all while addressing the needs of our diverse population and promoting sustainable practices across the town.”
In addition to a record-breaking 32 Healthy Town winners, another 16 towns were designated as 2024 Healthy Town to Watch.
"It’s incredible to see the Mayors Wellness Campaign Healthy Town designations keep growing year after year,” said Mike Cerra, executive director of the New Jersey League of Municipalities. “It’s proof that New Jersey’s community leaders aren’t just talking about health and wellness; they’re making it. From small towns to big cities, these leaders are showing up for their residents and building healthier, more vibrant communities.”
erans Home; the year before that, $1,000 to 2022-23 Commander Mark Natale’s project supporting the Rhett’s Syndrome Foundation.
In years before that, the squadron donated to 2021-22 Commander Henry Hasselhan’s and 2019-2021 Commander Matt Thalasinos’ projects, which funded various programs including improvements at Brigadier Doyle Veterans Cemetery in Wrightstown, purchasing veterans service dogs, and supported homeless veterans initiatives, among others.
At that meeting, the squadron also voted to donate $2,000 to the Fisher House Foundation, $105 to the Veterans and Children’s Foundation (VCF), and $105 to support the Detachment’s POW/MIA Annual Watchfire. The latter is the hallmark event held by the detachment each year, where in late September a bonfire on the beach is held as a 12-hour vigil to honor those who served and have never returned home.
Supporting projects like these are at the core of what the Sons of The American Legion exist for, and is the least we can do to honor the legacy of service to this country we’ve inherited and benefitted from. Squadron 105 supports these donations by running fundraisers throughout the year.
In the part of the meeting called “For the Good of The Sons”, Vice Commander Murph thanked the Belleville membership - ”It is known that 105 does a lot throughout the state … you contribute a lot and fundraise a lot … and it doesn’t go unnoticed.”
American Legion Post to host pasta dinner on April 6
BELLEVILLE — American Legion Auxiliary Unit 105 will be hosting a pasta dinner on April 6 from 2 to 6 p.m.
The dinner will include meatballs, sausage, pasta, bread, salad and dessert. The donation to the fundraiser is $20 per person but children under 10 eat for free.
Tickets for the event are available at American Legion Post 105, 621 Washington Ave., Belleville, where the dinner will be held.
Knights of Columbus holding Lent fish fry
BELLEVILLE — The Knights of Columbus will be holding a Lenten Fish Fry on Wednesday, April 9 in St. Peter’s School cafeteria from 6 to 9 p.m.
Dinner will include fried fish, french fries, coleslaw and dessert. The suggested donation is $22 for adults and $15 for children under the age of 12. Proceeds will support the work done by the Knights of Columbus Belleville Council 835.
To reserve a seat, call 973-751-2002.
Photos courtesy of BPD
New
The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs recently released data showing the average home price in each municipality and the amount that home paid in property taxes in 2024.
The highest average tax bill in Essex County was in Millburn, which was also second highest in the state. The average home in Millburn was listed at $1,282,294 with a tax bill of $25,407.
The lowest average tax bill in Essex County was in Newark where the average home was valued at $190,334 wit a tax bill of $7,238.
The state released the numbers after Gov. Phil Murphy introduced a $58.1 billion state budget proposal.
The following are the towns in Essex County, the average home price and the amount of taxes that home paid.
Belleville: $279,525; $11,273
Bloomfield: $354,446; $12,020
Caldwell: $426,385; $13,573
Cedar Grove: $477,582; $12,092
East Orange: $327,903; $10,298
Essex Fells: $943,438; $20,413
Fairfield: $539,753; $11,526
Glen Ridge: $672,540; $22,985
Irvington: $151,041; $9,360
Livingston: $721,238; $17,640
Maplewood: $804,789; $18,613
Millburn: $1,282,294; $25,407
Montclair: $635,770; $21,631
Newark: $190,334; $7,238
North Caldwell: $795,855; $17,965
Nutley: $491,883; $12,942
Orange: $317,671; $12,419
Roseland: $639,634; $11,541
South Orange: $879,423; $22,057
Verona: $434,575; $13,407
West Caldwell: $448,558; $12,271
West Orange: $336,878; $15,778
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Irish American Association says thank you
Dear Editor,
As the President of the Nutley Irish American Association, I just wanted to take a moment to thank the Township of Nutley for their support in this weekend's St. Patrick's Day Parade.
The Officers, Trustees, and members of the Nutley Irish start planning and fundraising for the parade in August, and seeing the smiles of the spectators and marchers makes all the hard work worthwhile. It was a beautiful day for a parade, and the energy of the crowd was electric!
We'd like to thank the Commissioners and their Departments for their help in facilitating this event. Your support is more than greatly appreciated.
We thank all of our official parade sponsors and those who have donated to any of our events all year round. Without your support, this parade would not be possible. It takes a village to run a parade, and the Nutley Irish loves being a part of this village!!
Sincerely,
Deidre Hollywood President, Nutley Irish American Association
Publisher: David Worrall
Editor: Joe Ungaro
Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina
O GLORIOUS ST. PATRICK –St. Peter School students joined the parish in celebrating St. Patrick at the morning Mass on March 17. In the homily, the Rev. Ivan Sciberras, pictured right celebrating Mass, explained that it was poor immigrants from Ireland that founded the parish on what was then known as “Irish Hill.”
Photos courtesy St. Peter’s Church
ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES
Nutley drug company gets grant
A Nutley based company that makes drugs that fight cancer and infectious disease was among the start ups given a grant from the state.
First Lady Tammy Murphy and New Jersey Economic Development Authority Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan recently announced that the Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology (CSIT) awarded a combined $1.7 million in grants to 23 New Jersey-based start-ups focused on developing technology, therapeutics, and other solutions to address maternal and infant health challenges.
The startups within New Jersey’s life sciences, technology, and non-retail food and beverage sectors were each awarded grants of up to $75,000, the state said.
The grant funds support the research and development (R&D) of technologies, products, and services that will enhance the quality of care and service delivery activities to women, infants, and health care agencies, according to a press release from the state.
“New Jersey is home to some of the most innovative startups in the nation, and it is a privilege to acknowledge their exciting new developments in maternal and infant health,” said Tammy Murphy. “The startups receiving awards today will carry on our critical work to ensure New Jersey is the safest and most equitable state in the nation to deliver and raise a baby and ultimately, continue to trans-
form the health care industry beyond the Murphy administration. And, with the Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Center currently in development in Trenton, our state’s capital city will serve as an innovation hub ensuring these types of businesses are fostered on a grander scale for years to come.”
The grants were awarded through Round 2 of CSIT’s Maternal and Infant Health R&D Grant Program. Through the program, CSIT will advance the innovation economy through the development of critically necessary research, products, and services designed to support maternal and infant health. This effort supports the goals established by the Nurture NJ Maternal and Infant Health Strategic Plan, which aims to make New Jersey the safest, most equitable state in the nation to deliver and raise a baby.
Nutley-based Vitruviae makes a biotherapeutic, VTRU200, that targets aberrant and abundant sugar and lipid signatures on viruses and cancers that do not exist on normal cells, are not encoded by mRNA, and do not change, according to the company.
The other start ups that received grants included Neoventech of North Brunswick; PONS of Newark; UCHU Biosensors of Newark; Delphine Diagnostics of Newark; Gosia Genomics of Kearny; Quarks Advantage Group of Jersey City; and High Throughput Biology of Short Hills.
ASH WEDNESDAY USHERS IN LENT: The faithful showed up in large numbers for the five Ash Wednesday Masses celebrated at St. Peter Church. The Holy Season of Lent culminates in the Easter Triduum, which is April 17-19. Easter Sunday this year will be celebrated on April 20, both in the Western Church and the Eastern Orthodox churches.
Photo courtesy of St. Peter Church
Belleville 6th graders come from 26 behind to win league title
In a thrilling Championship game held on March 2 in West Orange, the Belleville sixth grade travel squad captured the 2024-2025 Suburban League title overcoming a 26-point first-half West Orange lead.
Paced by point guard Bobby Canon's 27 points, the championship trophy has returned to Belleville for the first time in more than a decade.
"To come back against a very skilled and talented West Orange team, a team that had only lost twice in the past 3 years, maybe one game in a hundred you can successfully reverse the momentum before the clock runs out,” said Head Coach William Canon. “For a sixth grade basketball team to score 52 points in the 16 minutes of the second-half is almost unheard of. I have certainly never seen it. It is a testament to the kind of young men who represent the township of Belleville; they never quit and they have learned how and, at times almost irrationally, expect to win.
Canon said the team was helped by a large turnout of Belleville residents in attendance supporting the town team.
“The gymnasium was electric and you could feel hundreds of hearts pumping in that gymnasium,” Canon said. “It was truly an incredible way to end an amazing season. And I
would like to give great credit to the West Orange basketball program; though the outcome was not what they sought, the players, coaches and fans alike were true sportsmen. I believe this is a result of both teams having genuine respect for each other.”
Canon also said the 14 young men on the Belleville team worked hard every single day in season to get better at the game of basketball.
“We are only successful because we put forth a total team effort and every one of those 14 players contributes,” Canon said. “We don't get too hung up on who does all our scoring because we know, or at least have come to understand, that we win by playing defense. We have some very good athletes who play tenacious defense and they may never even show up in the scorebook.
Canon said the team played full court pressure defense for 32 minutes and it wears other teams down.
“It really does take special kids to prepare to do that and the team is very fortunate to have coach Wujciak, Silva and Browne who drill this defensive mindset everyday.”
Ten of the 14 boys on the basketball roster were also part of Belleville's travel baseball team that went an undefeated 27-0 on the diamond in 2024.
Photo courtesy of William Canon
Players on the Belleville sixth grade travel basketball team, starting in the back row, Brandon Garcia, Isaiah Ramierz, Damien Bonanno, Pierre Jackson, Mason Zeigler, Lawrence Vanderbly. Kneeling are JP Canon, Kobe Gentolia, Michael Greene Jr, Bobby Canon, Adam Crisostomo, Justin Browne, Jayce Silva, Chris Mejia (not pictured) Coaches: William Canon, Al Wujciak, Coach Carlos
inWomen BUSINESS
MADISON LOCKER Owner
SE V EN X SE V EN BOUTIQUE
My name is Madison Locker, and I am the owner of Seven x Seven Boutique in Nutley, NJ. I started Seven x Seven as an online boutique in 2019 at the age of 22. In November 2020, despite the ongoing pandemic, I decided to follow my passion and open a brick-and-mortar location on Church Street.
I have loved fashion for as long as I can remember, and I feel it’s one of the truest forms of self-expression. I enjoy bringing trendy, yet affordable women’s fashion to my customers, as well as providing personal customer service, and building relationships.
I am an alumni of Montclair State University, having received my Bachelors of Arts in Humanities degree. I am passionate about small business and am happy to be a part of the Nutley community.
7 Church Street . Nutley shopsevenxseven.com
The trend for women in business is growing. It’s fueled by women determined to “lean in” and get into the business game, looking to define their own career paths, and many others who are more entrepreneurial in nature.
Women currently exploring the world of business are being exposed to opportunities that haven’t always existed in the past. Mentorship programs are helping pull women up, further than ever before. At the same time, women are pulling together and creating their own networking, conferences and meet-ups.
Meet Giulia Polewka, the creative force behind
“The Mastered Mane,” a thriving hair salon nestled in the heart of our community. With over 4 years of experience in the beauty industry, Giulia’s passion for hairstyling is evident in every cut, color, and style she crafts. At age 21 she decided to open up a salon of her own located at 386 Franklin Ave in Nutley. Her dedication to providing exceptional service has earned her a loyal clientele who rave about her attention to detail and ability to transform their hair into works of art. Beyond her talent with scissors and dyes, Giulia is known for her genuine care for each client who walks through her salon doors. As both a business owner and a stylist, she continues to inspire both her team and her customers, making The Mastered Mane not just a salon, but a destination for beauty and community.
ELAINE PERNA
Renee Friscia Agent
quotes throughout the great state of New Jersey. Her office is in the beautiful town of Nutley right on Franklin Avenue. Renée is a proud member of the Nutley Chamber of Commerce and a Notary Public. Renée and her team can help you insure your cars as well as Homeowners and Renters. She will take the time to talk to everyone about the importance of Life insurance to protect those we value most. Working with small business owners for their Business insurance and planning needs is rewarding since Renée is a small business owner too. She can also can provide coverage for Flood Insurance and NJ PAIP and CAIP.
www.nutleyinsurance.com
rs ago in the pharmaceutical industry However, I always had the desire to build my own company, one that would allow me to be both the ambitious businesswoman and dedicated mother I wanted to be. Noticing a growing demand in the marketplace and local community, in addition to my personal need for quality childcare, I founded Sandy Lane Nursery School in 1973. The school’s doors opened with a modest enrollment of seven children and three teachers. Today, over 50 years later, Sandy Lane has grown into a nursery- and preschool with a license capacity of 323 students and 56 employees. Even after all these years, we remain dedicated to providing fami ies in our area with a warm, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment for their children. In addition to our NAEYC accreditation Sandy Lane Nursery School has also repeatedly ea
Giulia Polewka
Nutley residents on the Dean’s List at Tampa
Taylor Hughes, a sophomore majoring in criminology and criminal justice, and Jillian Pennise, a senior majoring in finance, both of Nutley, were named to the Dean’s List at the University of Tampa for the Fall 2024 semester. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.75 or higher to be eligible for the Dean's List.
Luzzi makes Dean’s List at Salve Regina in Newport
Justan Luzzi of Belleville was named to the Dean's List during the Fall 2024 academic semester at Salve Regina University. To qualify for the Dean's List, students must earn a semester grade point average of 3.6 for full-time students completing at least 12 graded credits, or a semester grade point average of 3.8 for part-time students completing at least six credits.
Flores makes Dean’s List at Baldwin Wallace Univ.
Valeria Flores, of Nutley, a graduate of Nutley High School majoring in music theatre, has been named to the Dean's List for the fall 2024 semester at Baldwin Wallace University. The Dean's List recognizes students who earn a grade point average of 3.8 or higher while enrolled in 12 or more graded hours during the semester.
Morris on President’s List at Siena College
Natalie Morris, of Nutley, was named to the Siena College President's List for the fall 2024 Semester. The President's List requires a 3.9 grade point average or higher.
Nutley residents on Dean’s List at Seton Hall Univ.
The following students from Nutley qualified for the Fall 2024 Dean's list at Seton Hall University: Aerell Bitalac; Ari Burdulis; Jazel Trisha Campomanes; Uriel Concepcion; Faith Criscione; Cassandra Dominguez; Alexandria Duffe; Gianni Feraco; Christian Hui; Emily Jablonowski; Julian Jansen; Jalissa Lopez; Jessica Marciniak; Angelina Matto; Michael O'Brien; Paolo Emmanuel Reyes; Daniel Reyes III; Matthew Santos; Julio Takemoto; Sollyis Velazquez; and Jordan Zarro.
Belleville students on Dean’s List at Seton Hall
The following students from Belleville qualified for the Fall 2024 Dean's list at Seton Hall University: Leianna Ahmed; Ohm Amin; Dominic Cipollone; Selena Kossup; Richard Paton; Eyllen Pinaloza Zabala; Alayna Rivera; Gianna Sanchez; Alexia Seeram; and Andrea Toledo.
Wasko presents at Psychological Association meeting in New York City
Alexandra Wasko, of Nutley, is one of four Lebanon Valley College psychology students who joined Dr. Rachel Albert, associate professor of psychology, to present posters at the Eastern Psychological Association Meeting in New York City last week. Wasko co-presented Does Infant Gaze Influence Inexperienced Caregivers' Perceptions of Infant Vocalizations? and Factors Impacting Conversational-Turn-Taking in Infant-Toddler Classrooms. Wasko, a graduate of Nutley High School, is pursuing a bachelor of science in neuroscience at LVC.
Library to host ‘More Fan Favorites’ concert on April 26
The North Jersey Concert Band returns to the Nutley Public Library for a free outdoor concert on Saturday, April 26 at 2 p.m.
This concert’s theme is More Fan Favorites. The band will perform a wide variety of musical selections including popular songs, jazz arrangements and Broadway melodies.
People are encouraged to bring a lawn chair. The rain date is Saturday, May 3 at 2 p.m. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Nutley Public Library.
Registration open for April break camp
The Nutley Department of Parks and Recreation has announced the Camp Nutley program is available for the Spring Recess, April 14-17 with no camp on Good Friday, April 18.
“Camp Nutley” is a great experience where children can build confidence, take part in hands-on activities, make new friends, and simply have a great time,” said Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci.
This program is open to Nutley youngsters in grades K through 6. The deadline to register is April 9. The program is located at the Parks & Recreation Department, 44 Park Ave. The fee is $200.00 per child. The hours of operation will be 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Drop off is in room 300. Online registration available at: https://register.communitypass.net/nutley.
For more information, contact the department at (973) 284-4966, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Cherry Blossom Festival
even
than the
display in Washington, DC. We invite you and your family to come out and experience this natural wonder.
community
Photos courtesy BPD
Belleville Police Department officers participated in the
Family Literacy Night Event which was held at Belleville High School. The officers connected with
munity and handed out Belleville Police Department coloring books, crayons,
treats for the kids.
County seeking input on roadway safety
Essex County is developing a Safe Streets for All Action Plan to reduce roadway fatalities and serious injuries while enhancing safety, mobility, and quality of life for all users, especially vulnerable users such as bicyclists, pedestrians, and people of all ages and abilities.
People are invited to share their experiences on Essex County streets and that input will help develop strategies to make the streets safer for all. The resulting plan will recommend policies and identify key projects throughout the County and in East Orange to help make our streets safer for all road users.
To participate in the survey, go to https://app.maptionnaire.com/q/essex-ss4a
CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT
Suburban Essex Chamber of Commerce
SUBURBAN ESSEX CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOUNDATION IS OFFERING 2025 SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
The Suburban Essex Chamber of Commerce Foundation plans to recognize three academic recipients for a 2025 scholarship award.
The recipients must be a graduating senior and reside in the towns that we support; Bloomfield, Belleville and Glen Ridge
The criteria for the scholarships are based on financial need, fall attendance at a college, university, or vocational school, intention to pursue a career that is business oriented and extra-curricular/community activities. The scholarships will be awarded to one recipient from each town to be selected by our scholarship committee. Applications are available at each high school guidance counselor office, website (suburbanessexchamber.com) or by contacting Cecelia Polizzi or Donna Pietroiacovo at 973-748-2000.
Applications must be received by April 28, 2025.
Suburban Essex Chamber of Commerce 256 Broad Street, Suite 2F Bloomfield, NJ 07003 973-748-2000 – admin@suburbanessexchamber.com Visit our website www.SuburbanEssexChamber.com Suburbanessexchamber.com; facebook.com/pages/suburban-essex-chamber-of-commerce
PLEASE PATRONIZE OUR LOCAL MEMBER BUSINESSES!
Donna M. Pietroiacovo, Exec. Admin. • www.suburbanessexchamber.com
Belleville Historical Society member Emmanuel
American flags at Row F in Glendale Cemetery in Bloomfield, where
young servicemen who died in Vietnam rest side by side.
Remembering the end of the Vietnam War
At noon on Saturday March 29 the Belleville Historical Society and local veterans will observe National Vietnam War Veterans Day in the veterans circle at Glendale Cemetery in Bloomfield.
Resting in the Veterans Circle in the cemetery are 271 young men who served in Vietnam. Many of them were killed in action and the remainder died a few years after the war. They range in age from 18 to the mid 30's. In Row F alone, there are 26 young soldiers who died in Vietnam resting side by side.
This year marks the 50th anniversary
of the end of the Vietnam War. More than 58,000 U.S. servicemen died in Vietnam and more than 300,000 were wounded. The last two U.S. servicemen killed in action died on April 29, 1975 with the fall of Saigon, which ended the war.
For the past two years the Belleville Historical Society has been locating and cleaning the gravestones of Vietnam War servicemen killed in action buried throughout Essex County.
For more information contact Michael Perrone at bellevillehistory@gmail.com or 201-687-1431.
~ Serving Bloomfield, Belleville and Glen Ridge Businesses ~
Photo courtesy of Michael Perrone
Ramos-Jaramilo sets
26
$130K raised for Catholic school tuition
The Scholarship Fund for Inner-City Children (SFIC) raised approximately $130,000 to support partial tuition assistance scholarships for underprivileged students attending Archdiocese of Newark Catholic schools during the organization’s third annual Irish American Leadership Breakfast on March 13.
This year’s event surpassed last year’s total by $15,000, according to a press release from the archdiocese.
More than 100 attendees gathered at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Center’s auditorium in Newark for the pre-St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Guests enjoyed a traditional Irish breakfast featuring Irish soda bread, back bacon and other cultural delicacies while being entertained by a bagpiper and fiddler.
The celebration also featured a spirited performance by the Emerald Isle Academy of Dance, whose step dancers had the audience clapping and moving in their seats.
The event culminated in the recognition of two distinguished Irish Americans for their commitment to Catholic education and community service:
Barbara Dolan, Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Newark
Brian D. McCauley, co-founder of Nextel and a longtime SFIC supporter.
In his acceptance speech, McCauley praised SFIC’s mission, emphasizing how the organization provides students with access to a quality education that might otherwise be out of reach.
Dolan reflected on her own Catholic education, sharing how the schooling she received as a girl shaped her values and career today.
“We were honored to celebrate Barbara and Brian at the Irish American Leadership Breakfast because they embody the spirit of St. Patrick,” said Michelle L. Hartman, chief executive officer of SFIC. “Just as St. Patrick transformed Ireland through his actions, Barbara and Brian have positively impacted countless children’s lives through their dedication to SFIC. We are deeply grateful for their unwavering compassion and generosity.”
Looking ahead, SFIC will host its annual gala on May 15 at the Pleasantdale Chateau in West Orange. It will then hold its Family Fun Day on June 14 at Turtle Back Zoo, offering scholarship recipients and their families a complimentary day of enjoyment.
For more information about SFIC and its initiatives, visit www.sficnj.org.
Founded in 1983 as the Fund for Educational Advancement, the Scholarship Fund for Inner-City Children (SFIC) is a non-profit organization that provides children in need with the opportunity for a quality, values-based education in a safe environment. It offers partial tuition assistance for students from economically disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds attending private and parochial schools within Bergen, Essex, Hudson and Union counties.
THE JOB HAINES DIFFERENCE
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staff to residents.
• SUB-ACUTE REHAB: State-of-the-art rehabilitation center on campus and open to the community.
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healthy living
Take on new hobbies after retirement to stay sharp
Retirement should be relaxing, not boring. In fact, taking on new hobbies can keep your mind sharp and body vital as you age. Here are five ways to stay active in your golden years:
1. Join a gym: Joining a gym is one of the easiest ways to ensure you perform a mix of strength training and cardiovascular exercise. Doing both will help keep your bones and muscles strong and your heart and lungs fully functional. Don’t forget to add in yoga and stretching to promote balance and agility. If a gym is out of reach, see what other nearby opportunities are available for working up a sweat. Many towns and cities offer free and budget-friendly, community-based exercise programming.
2. Play music: There are numerous cognitive and emotional benefits associated with playing music. Whether you’re a beginner just looking to pick up the basics or a seasoned musician with the hopes of performing in public, you can equip yourself to sound amazing with a high-quality instrument like the CT-S1-76 keyboard from Casio. Its 76 full-size keys and upgraded 13-watt bass-reflex stereo speaker system with surround effect lend
it incredible sound quality and a dynamic playing experience, while its sleek, portable design makes it a joy to play anytime, anywhere. In addition to remotely controlling the CT-S1-76, you can also use the Casio Music Space app to learn to play your favorite songs with downloadable MIDI files, interact with PDF scores, and much more.
3. Start a book club: It’s always more
fun to read books when you can discuss them with friends. From tackling the lassics, to diving into non-fiction works that will challenge your perspective, to enjoying some easy, breezy beach reads, it’s important that the other members of the group have the same reading goals as you. So do a little leg work in advance to ensure everyone is on the same page.
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4. Number crunch: You don’t have to be in school to take up math as a hobby. There are plenty of recreational mathematicians of all ages who enjoy crunching numbers to work puzzles, compete in games, and uncover patterns in the real world. To get into your mathematical groove and to support your hobby, use a graphing calculator such as the fx9750GIII from Casio. Its over 2,900 functions, including random number generation, metric conversion and object measurement, make it a great tool for any mathematical project.
5. Learn a language: Learning a new language not only creates new neural pathways in the brain, it can be just the motivational ticket you need to finally visit that bucket list destination you’ve been dreaming of. While formal lessons are great, you can help ensure your skills truly progress through conversation. Lean on services like Tandem to connect with a language partner.
By taking on new hobbies and expanding your interests, you can carve out a retirement that is active, adventurous and good for your body, mind and soul.
Photo courtesy of Lucas Seijo / iStock via Getty Images Plus
healthy living
Choosing healthy beverages for kids and teens
Choosing healthy beverages for children and adolescents is just as important as choosing healthy foods, as it impacts everything from oral health to chronic disease risk. That’s why leading health and nutrition organizations developed new healthy beverage recommendations for families with children ages 5-18.
These evidence-based recommendations were created as part of a collaboration by experts at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Heart Association, who were brought together by Healthy Eating Research (HER) with funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. To make choosing healthy beverages easier for families, the organizations created these three categories:
Beverages to Drink
These beverages are recommended as part of a healthy diet because they provide essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, and don’t contain added sugars.
• Plain drinking water is still the best
option to keep kids healthy and hydrated. It’s also often the most accessible and affordable.
• Plain, pasteurized milk is another healthy option because it provides important nutrients that growing kids and teens need.
Beverages to Limit
• 100 percent fruit and vegetable juice can be part of a healthy diet, but daily consumption should be limited. Whole fruits and vegetables are generally better choices because they provide dietary fiber, contributing to a feeling of fullness.
• Plant-based milk alternatives like oat milk and almond milk should be limited because they are not nutritionally equivalent to cow’s milk, which provides essential nutrients that kids need to grow up healthy. Many also contain added sugars and nonsugar sweeteners, which are harmful to kids’ health. If your child is allergic to dairy milk or has a dietary restriction, talk to your doctor or registered dietitian about finding the plant-based milk alternative that is best for your child.
• Flavored milks, like chocolate milk and strawberry milk, should be limited because they contain high amounts of added sugars and non-sugar sweeteners. If your child does not like drinking plain milk, it’s best to consider other foods from the dairy group (like unsweetened yogurt) before offering flavored milk.
Beverages to Avoid
These beverages are not recommended as part of a healthy diet because they offer no nutritional value and have ingredients that can be harmful to kids and teens.
• Sugar-sweetened beverages, such as sports drinks, sodas, fruit drinks, fruitades, aguas frescas and sweetened waters are high in added sugars, which can put children at risk for dental cavities, and diet-related diseases like type 2 diabetes and obesity.
• Drinks with non-sugar sweeteners, such as aspartame, stevia and monk fruit, should also be avoided. Just because a drink is advertised as sugar-free doesn’t mean it’s healthier. In fact, new research shows non-sugar sweeteners may not help
control body weight and may increase the risk of diet-related chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
• Drinks with caffeine or other stimulants like taurine should be avoided. These include energy drinks, energy shots, coffee, and tea. Evidence suggests that there is no safe amount of caffeine consumption for children under 18 and that even small amounts can lead to poor sleep quality, increased blood pressure, and depressive moods and anxiety.
You can learn more about healthy drinks at healthyeatingresearch.org. – StatePoint
Sandy Lane
Joe Graziano receives award for his exceptional volunteerism
NUTLEY — Proponent Federal Credit Union recently announced that Joe Graziano, Proponent’s vice president, continuous improvement/core solutions, has been given the New Jersey Recreation and Parks Association’s Faye S. Mathewson Award for exceptional volunteerism.
Graziano was recognized for his decades of volunteer service, including his leadership in organizing Wayne Day, an annual community event in Wayne that brings thousands of people together for food, entertainment, and family fun.
Graziano founded Wayne Day 33 years ago, and under his leadership, the event has grown from a modest gathering to one of the town’s most anticipated traditions. In addition, he serves as president of the Wayne Rotary Club and president of the Nutley Chamber of Commerce.
Graziano says he is driven by the desire to “help others do well.”
“We all have time to volunteer,” Graziano said. “It’s just a matter of priorities.” He received the award at NJRPA’s 50th annual conference in February.
Photo courtesy of Proponent Federal Credit Union
Joe Graziano speaks at the New Jersey Recreation and Parks Association conference after receiving the Faye S. Mathewson Award.
Photo club plans nature competition, program on pinhole analogue photos
The Essex Photo Club has a busy month of April planned.
The club will have a Zoom presentation at 7:30 p.m. on April 3 on Pinhole Analogue Photography by Richard Lewis.
Lewis specializes in fine art photography, gives photography presentations and workshops around the state and has written a book on the New Jersey Pine Barrens.
On Thursday, April 10, at 7:30 p.m., the club will host an in-person meeting of the New Jersey Federation of Camera Club (NJFCC) Spring Nature Competition.
On Tuesday, April 15, at 7 p.m., the club will have a joint Zoom meeting with the Livingston Camera Club that will include a presentation of Lensbaby lenses by Jamie K. Davidson.
The Lensbaby lenses are special lenses for DSLR and mirrorless cameras that combine bellows or balland-socket mechanisms to provide special effects such as bokeh, or soft focus, for a variety of perspectives.
Davidson is an award-winning freelance outdoor and nature photographer and Lensbaby ambassador with a passion for capturing and sharing intimate moments and beauty of the natural world on its own and as it blends with the “rest of the world.”
Her work can be seen on https://newlifephotos.photoshelter.c om/portfolio.
On Thursday, April 24 at 7:30 p.m., the club will have an in-person competition of digital images in the categories of Nature and Pictorial on beginner, advanced and salon levels.
Included in the competition will be a Creative Pictorial category for combined levels.
The judge will be Nancy Ori who is an inveterate photographer with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts, and a master’s degree in visual communication from Pratt Institute.
Ori enjoys teaching photography and painting workshops throughout the year in the USA and Europe. She established the New Jersey Photo forum in 1995 for professional and semiprofessional photographers to discuss their work and seek exhibition opportunities.
All in-person meetings are held at the Caldwell United Methodist Church, 8 Academy Road, Caldwell. Zoom meetings can be accessed by calling Catherine Kuzik-Fernandez at 862-485-7474. Visit www.essexphotoclub.org or Facebook for more information.
ESSEX COUNTY’S RECYCLING DAY
Household Hazardous Waste
Saturday, May 3, 2025
8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Essex County Fleet Management (Public Works) 99 W. Bradford Avenue, Cedar Grove, New Jersey
Free to all Essex County Residents. Essex County residents must provide proof of residency at the site.
NOT FOR COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL FACILITIES.
Do not exit vehicle. Items for disposal to be placed in trunk.
NO containers will be returned (gas cans, etc.).
For more information call 973-792-9060 or www.ecuanj.com
ITEMS ACCEPTED:
Herbicides
Paint thinners and solvents
Oil based paints and stains
Chemistry sets
Propane tanks (barbecue type)
Pool chemicals
Automotive fluids (antifreeze, motor oil, steering fluids, etc.)
Darkroom/
Photographic chemicals
Lithium and NiCad batteries
Fluorescent light bulbs and ballasts
WE WILL NOT ACCEPT:
Latex paint
Unlabeled or Unidentified Materials
Asbestos
Regulated Medical Waste or Infectious Waste
Commercial or Industrial Waste
Empty Containers
Explosives, Munitions, Ordnance or Reactive Materials
Mercury and products containing mercury
Gasoline/Kerosene
Household cleaning fluids
Car batteries
Fire extinguishers (home)
Driveway sealer
Aerosol spray paints
Household batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V)
Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
“There are some materials that should be removed from our regular waste stream because of their hazardous nature. This collection day provides our residents a place to properly and safely dispose of contaminants, protecting our precious environment for future generations. I encourage residents of all of our communities to come out and participate.” — Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.
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
COMEDIAN DANE COOK at NJPAC on Sunday, March 30, at 7:30 p.m., New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Prudential Hall, Betty WoldJohnson Stage, 1 Center St,, Newark. Tickets are $49 to $89 at www.njpac.org.
PAULA POUNDSTONE on Friday, April 4, at 8 p.m., NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $49.50 - $69.50 at www.njpac.org. STAND UP COMIC SHULER KING COMES TO NJPAC on Sunday, April 6, at 7 p.m., Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $74 and up at www.njpac.org.
COMEDIAN MOJO BROOKZZ COMES TO NJPAC on Saturday, April 12, AT 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $39.50 to $59.50 at www.njpac.org.
SCOTLAND'S COMEDY SUPERSTAR FERN BRADY COMES TO NJPAC on Saturday, April 19, at 8 p.m. Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $27.50 and up at www.njpac.org. COMEDIAN MARIA BAMFORD, KNOWN FOR OPENLY DISCUSSING MENTAL ILLNESS, at NJPAC on Friday, May 9, at 8 p.m. NJPAC Victoria Theater, Lizzie and Jonathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $39.50 to $45.50 at www.njpac.org.
DOUGHBOYS PODCAST ABOUT CHAIN RESTAURANTS BRINGS THEIR PODCAST SHOW LIVE ON-STAGE AT NJPAC on Friday, May 16, at 8 p.m., NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage. 1 Center St. Newark. Tickets are $49.50 to $59.50 at www.njpac.org.
RALPH BARBOSA AND RENÉ VACA JOIN FORCES ON THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT TOUR on Thursday, May 29, at 7 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1
Center St., Newark. Tickets are $25.75 and up at www.njpac.org.
THE CARIBBEAN KING OF COMEDY MAJAH HYPE comes to NJPAC on Saturday, June 7, at 7 p.m., Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $49 and up at www.njpac.org.
EARTHQUAKE AND HIS ANNUAL COMEDY SHOW AT NJPAC featuring DeRay Davis, Chico Bean and B. Simone, on Sunday, June 15, at 7 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St. Newark. Tickets are $55 and up at www.njpac.org.
TINA FEY AND AMY POEHLER BRING RESTLESS LEG TOUR to Prudential Center On Sunday, June 22 at 6 p.m., Prudential Center, 25 Lafayette St., Newark. Tickets at Tickemaster.com.
AN ARABIC NIGHT WITH BASSEM YOUSSEF on Sunday, June 22 at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $49.50 and up at www.njpac.org.
JOEY DIAZ BRINGS DOES HIS LEGENDARY COMEDY SHOW on Friday, June 27 at 8 p.m. at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $39.50 and up at www.njpac.org.
SOCIAL MEDIA STAR AND COMEDIAN JOSH JOHNSON PRESENTS THE FLOWERS TOUR AT NJPAC on Saturday, June 28, at 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $39.50 to $59.50 at www.njpac.org.
LECTURES
NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON: AN ASTROPHYSICIST GOES TO THE MOVIES PART II. Tyson will delve into a scientific analysis of iconic films such as “Harry Potter,” “The Wizard of Oz,” “Mary Poppins,” and “2001: A Space Odyssey” on Sunday, Nov. 30, at 3 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $49.50 to $103.50 at www.njpac.org.
MUSIC
“QUEEN OF MEXICAN ROCK," ALEJANDRA GUZMÁN brings her 2025 Brilla Tour to NJPAC on Friday, March 28, at 8 p.m., NJPAC Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $51.99 to $151.99 at www.njpac.org.
GEORGE PORTER JR., A MASTER ARCHITECT OF FUNK AND SYNCOPATION, performs at the South Orange Performing Arts Center - Jennifer and Tony Leitner Performance Hall, Saturday, March 29, at 7:30 p.m. SOPAC, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets at https://sopacnow.my.salesforce-sites.com.
KURT ELLING CELEBRATES WEATHER REPORT on Thursday, April 3, at 7 p.m. South Orange Performing Arts Center - Jennifer and Tony Leitner Performance Hall, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets $40 to $60 at https://sopacnow.my.salesforce-sites.com. R&B SUPERSTAR TYRESE SET to perform on Sunday, April 27, at 7 p.m., at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $49.50 and up at www.njpac.org.
Fern Brady
Josh Johnson
Photos courtesy of NJPAC
Paula Poundstone
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
FEARLESS – THE TAYLOR SWIFT EXPERIENCE on Friday, April 11 at 8 p.m. Starring Rikki Lee Wilson. UCPAC Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway. Phone (732) 499-8226 for tickets.
ENDEA OWENS & THE COOKOUT on Friday, April 18 at 7:30 p.m. with special guest vocalist Shenel Johns, South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. For tickets, call the SOPAC Box Office at (973) 3132787. THE TEMPTATIONS and THE FOUR TOPS 40TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR at NJPAC on Saturday, April 19, at 8 p.m.NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $39.50 to $99.50 at www.njpac.org.
MELISSA ETHERIDGE & JOSS STONE on Thursday, April 24, at 7:30 p.m. NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets $59 to $129 at www.njpac.org.
MICHAEL FEINSTEIN IN “BECAUSE OF YOU MY TRIBUTE TO TONY BENNETT,” featuring the Carnegie Hall Ensemble, on Friday, April 25, at 7:30 p.m. at Enlow Recital Hall, 215 North Avenue, Hillside. Tickets for Michael Feinstein are $65-$95 and can be purchased online at keanstage.com or by contacting the Box Office at (908)737-7469.
AN EVENING WITH BRANFORD MARSALIS on Saturday, May 3, at 8 p.m. at the Union County Performing Arts Center, UCPAC Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway. Tickets at 732499-8226 or https://ucpac.org/ BRAZILIAN MUSIC AWARD-WINNING TRIO THE GILSONS SET TO PERFORM AT SOUTH ORANGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER on Friday, May 9, at 8 p.m., SOPAC, 1 SOPAC Way South Orange. Tickets at www. sopacnow.org. THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, on Thursday, May 15, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets starting at $35 at https://sopacnow.org/
SENSATIONAL EVENING OF 70’S SOUL WITH LIVE PERFORMANCES BY The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Blue Magic, The Blue Notes and Heatwave on Saturday, May 31, at 8 p.m., New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets $41.50 to $101.50 at www.njpac.org.
JOAN OSBORNE DOING DYLANOLOGY
LIVE with special guests Anders Osborne, Gail Ann Dorsey, and Cindy Cashdollar with Will Bryant and Lee Falco on Friday, June 6, at 8 p.m. Tickets are $39.50 – $59.50 plus fees, UCPAC Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway. Tickets at https://ucpac.org/
RICK SPRINGFIELD: I WANT MY '80 TOUR
FEATURING JOHN WAITE, WANG CHUNG, AND PAUL YOUNG on Saturday, July 12, at 7 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, One Center St., Newark. Tickets are $59 to $149 at www.njpac.org.
GOSPEL SENSATION CARLA HARRIS will perform on Sunday, June 8, at 3 p.m.,
NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $59 and up at www.njpac.org.
DYNAMIC SOUL MUSIC WITH KEM on Friday, July 18 at 8 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $49 and up at www.njpac.org.
CHICAGO COMES TO NEWARK on Friday, July 25, at 8 p.m., New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org.
KASHMIR – THE SPIRIT OF LED ZEPPELIN LIVE on Friday, Sept. 19 at 8 p.m., NJPAC Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $49.50-$69.50 at www.njpac.org.
FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS, THE LAST ENCORES on Saturday, Oct. 11 at 8 p.m, NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, One Center Street, Newark. Tickets are $49.50 and up www.NJPAC.org or Box Office 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722)
THEATER
RE-LIVE THE BEATLES during this immersive performance featuring costume changes and multimedia backdrop on March 30 at 3 p.m., The Concert Hall at Drew University, Madison. Tickets at gdpresents.simpletix.com or email GDPresentstix@gmail.com for phone orders and group rates.
MICHAEL PATRICK'S RING OF FIRE BAND: A JOHNNY CASH TRIBUTE on April 6 at 3 p.m., The Concert Hall at Drew University, Madison. Tickets at gdpresents.simpletix.com or email GDPresentstix@gmail.com for phone orders and group rates.
“PANTO’S TREASURE ISLAND” on Saturday, April 12, at 1 p.m at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets at https://sopacnow.org/ THE OFFICIAL LIVE SHOW BASED ON “PRETTY GUARDIAN SAILOR MOON” BY
NAOKO TAKEUCHI on Friday, April 18 at 8 p.m., New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Prudential Hall
One Center Street, Newark. Tickets are $45.50 to $120 at www.NJPAC.org or 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).
“TAKE THE LEAD,” A WORLD PREMIERE MUSICAL, will be performed at Paper Mill Playhouse from March 29 to April 27, 22 Brookside Drive, Millburn. TIckets at https://papermill.org/subscriptions or box office phone, 973376-4343
A SPECIAL SCREENING OF “SHE'S ALL THAT,” followed by a live conversation with the film’s stars, Freddie Prinze Jr. and Rachael Leigh Cook, at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark, on Saturday, May 24 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $29.50 and up at www.njpac.org.
NATALIA LAFOURCADE, ONE OF THIS CENTURY’S MOST INFLUENTIAL VOICES IN LATIN POPULAR CULTURE, at NJPAC on Thursday, June 19, at 8 p.m. Prudential Hall Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $59.50 to $149.50 at www.njpac.org.
Melissa Etheridge Naruto
Girl Power! Belleville HS flag football program is unveiled
BHS spring teams get ready to begin their seasons
The Belleville High School varsity spring teams will begin their season.
The boys volleyball season will begin March 28, the baseball season will begin March 29; the softball season and boys tennis team begins April 1; and the track and field season begins April 5.
The following are their schedules:
Baseball
• March 29: at Clifton, 11 a.m.
• April 1: at Central, 4 p.m.
• April 3: Montclair Kimberley Academy, 4 p.m.
• April 5: Verona, 11 a.m.
• April 7: Cedar Grove, 4 p.m.
• April 9: West Orange, 4 p.m.
• April 11: at Glen Ridge, 4 p.m.
• April 12: at Hoboken, 11 a.m.
• April 16: Bloomfield, 4 p.m.
• April 19: at Newark Academy, 11 a.m.
• April 21: at St. Benedict’s Prep, 4 p.m.
• April 23: at Montclair Kimberley Academy, 4 p.m.
• April 25: at Cedar Grove, 4 p.m.
• April 28: Becton, 4:30 p.m.
• May 3: Morristown, 11 a.m.
• May 7: Glen Ridge, 7 p.m.
• May 8: at Lodi, 4 p.m.
• May 9: Caldwell, 4 p.m.
• May 12: at Bloomfield, 7 p.m.
• May 14: Newark Academy, 4 p.m.
• May 15: at Kearny, 4 p.m.
• May 17: Nutley, 11 a.m.
• May 19: Golda Och Academy, 4 p.m.
• May 22: at Midland Park, 4 p.m.
Softball
• April 1: at Technology, 4 p.m.
• April 3: Montclair Kimberley Academy, 4 p.m.
• April 5: at Saddle Brook, 3:15 p.m.
• April 7: at West Orange, 4 p.m.
• April 9: Bloomfield, 4 p.m.
• April 11: at Millburn, 4 p.m.
• April 12: Hopatcong, 10 a.m.
• April 14: Irvington, 4 p.m.
• April 16: Payne Tech, 4 p.m.
• April 17: East Side, 4:30 p.m.
• April 21: at Newark Academy, 4 p.m.
• April 23: at Montclair Kimberley Academy, 4 p.m.
• April 25: West Orange, 4 p.m.
• April 28: Hanover Park, 4 p.m.
• May 5: Millburn, 4 p.m.
• May 9: at Hopatcong, 4:30 p.m.
• May 10: Somerville, 11 a.m.
• May 12: at Payne Tech, 4 p.m.
• May 14: at East Side, 4 p.m.
• May 15: Demarest, 4:30 p.m.
• May 19: American History, 4 p.m. Boys volleyball
• March 28: at East Orange Campus, 4 p.m.
• April 1: at Bloomfield, 4 p.m.
• April 3: at Passaic, 4 p.m.
• April 4: Livingston, 4 p.m.
• April 7: Montclair, 4 p.m.
• April 9: Orange, 4 p.m.
• April 11: at Millburn, 4 p.m.
• April 15: Passaic Tech, 4 p.m.
• April 16: Hudson Catholic, 4 p.m.
• April 23: at West Orange, 4 p.m.
• May 5: at West Caldwell, 4 p.m.
• May 7: Bloomfield, 4 p.m.
• May 12: at Montclair, 4 p.m.
• May 14: Millburn, 4 p.m.
• May 16: at Livingston, 4 p.m.
• May 19: West Caldwell Tech, 4 p.m.
• May 21: at Nutley, 4 p.m.
• May 22: Abundant Life Academy, 4 p.m.
• May 27: at Clifton, 4 p.m.
Boys tennis
• April 1: at Verona, 4 p.m.
• April 3: at Nutley, 4 p.m.
• April 7: Glen Ridge, 4 p.m.
• April 9: Irvington, 4 p.m.
• April 11: East Side, 4 p.m.
• April 16: Cedar Grove, 4 p.m.
• April 21: at Union, 11 a.m.
• April 22: at Passaic, 9 a.m.
• April 28: Bloomfield, 4 p.m.
• April 30: Irvington, 4 p.m.
• May 1: Central, 4 p.m.
• May 5: East Side, 4 p.m.
• May 8: Golda Och Academy, 4 p.m.
• May 9: Union, 4 p.m.
• May 12: at Central, 4 p.m.
• May 14: at Bloomfield, 4 p.m.
Track and field
• April 5: at Hackensack, 8:30 a.m.
• April 9: at Nutley, 4:30 p.m.
• April 14: Bloomfield, 4 p.m.
• April 19: at Morris Hills Relays, 9 a.m.
• April 22: at West Essex, 4 p.m.
• April 28: Millburn, 4 p.m.
• April 29: Essex County Relays, at Schools Stadium, in Newark, 4 p.m
• May 2: Super Essex Conference Championships, at Schools Stadium, 4 p.m.
• May 8-9: Essex County Championships, at Schools Stadium, 4 p.m.
• May 16-17: North Jersey, Section 1, Group 4 state championships, at Livingston, 3:30 p.m. on • May 16; 9 a.m. on May 17.
Belleville High School girls flag football players are shown at practice. This is the first year for the program, under head coach Brian Antab,
shown talking to the players. Antab also is the head coach of the BHS football team in the fall.
Photo Courtesy of Brian Antab
Correa named new head soccer coach at Caldwell
Belleville native Max Correa has been named the eighth Caldwell University head men's soccer coach, recently announced by Mark A. Corino, assistant vice president and director of athletics. Correa most recently was an assistant coach at Division I College of Charleston since 2021. He succeeds Evan Marques, who resigned in December after three years at the helm.
Correa, a December 2018 graduate of Drew University, was promoted in 2023 to assistant coach at Charleston after serving as director of operations and player development and volunteer assistant coach at the South Carolina school.
In his most recent role, he had a hand in all facets of the Coastal Athletic Association program, responsible for scouting reports, Playertek Data, session planning, organizing camps, video, recruiting, on-field training and more. Previously, he was assistant coach at Wilkes (Pa.) University from 20192021.
Under his assistance, Charleston recorded a 10-6-2 season – its best since 2017 – exceeding preseason projections and securing a fifth-place conference finish. He also coached multiple award-winning players, including the co-Midfielder of the Year, two First Team All-Conference selections and three all-region honorees. His expertise in set-piece strategies contributed to 15 goals, accounting for 40% of the team's total scoring.
During the fall 2023 season, Correa helped Charleston achieve a 6-6-5 record, marking the program’s first non-losing season since 2017. Throughout his tenure, six players received postseason accolades, including the 2021 CAA Rookie of the Year. Prior to Charleston, Correa played a pivotal role at Wilkes University, where he helped secure the program’s first playoff victory since 2008 and its first winning record since 2013.
“The combination of Max’s experience in the sport, New Jersey connections, and demonstrated variety of skills and abilities, made him a strong candidate,” said Corino. “It became even more apparent when we met him that he would be a good fit here, and we are pleased to welcome him to the Caldwell University family.”
Correa will have Caldwell Athletics administrator duties, as well as his coaching responsibilities.
Correa enjoyed a standout playing career at Drew, where the team captain helped the Rangers to an NCAA Division III Sweet Sixteen appearance,
Landmark Conference championship and ECAC championship. He finished with 26 assists, which is ranked third in school history and second in Landmark history. The economics major went on to earn his MBA at Wilkes and a master coach diploma from the University of Delaware.
“I am incredibly honored and excited to take on the role of head men’s soccer coach at Caldwell University,” said Correa. “I want to thank Mr. Corino and the Caldwell Athletics Department for this opportunity. This program has a strong foundation, and I look forward to building on the success that Coach Marques established, while fostering a culture of excellence, discipline and growth for our student-athletes. I am eager to bring my experience and passion for the game to Caldwell and to help our players reach their full potential, both on and off the field.”
His local ties run even deeper. He was a four-year varsity player and three-year captain at Belleville High School, graduating in 2015, as he accumulated 20 goals and 65 assists. In his senior season, he helped the Bucs reach the 2014 Essex County Tournament semifinals.
His extensive youth soccer coaching experience includes stints with the Montclair Soccer Club, Bound Brookbased United Soccer Academy and South Carolina Surf.
Correa holds his USSF B License and Scottish FA UEFA C Diploma and is a Level 2 ISPAS accredited performance analyst.
BHS baseball features solid returning group
The Belleville High School baseball team hopes to have another strong season.
The Bucs, under head coach Joe Sorce, have a good returning group, led by their captains: senior first baseman/right fielder/pitcher Rafael Matos, senior shortstop Ayden Carrero and junior pitcher/first baseman Sean Walsh.
“These guys are doing a great job of leading and setting a positive example,” said Sorce, entering his 19th year at the helm.
Walsh earned All–Super Essex Conference–Colonial Division First Team honors last season.
The other returning varsity players are senior second baseman Derek Gonzalez, senior catcher/pitcher/outfielder Ariancy Paulino, senior third baseman/pitcher Jordan Rosario and junior center fielder/pitcher Crismel Deleon. Deleon also made the All–SEC–Colonial Division First Team last year.
The Bucs are coming off a 15-10 season. They went 20-7 in 2023, including winning the SEC-Colonial Division.
The coaching staff also is back. Vinnie Orrei is the varsity assistant and Neal DiNapoli is the junior varsity coach.
DiNapoli handles a few freshman games on opposite days of JV. The Bucs were scheduled to open the regular season on Saturday, March 29, at Clifton at 11 a.m.
Photo Courtesy of Caldwell University Athletics Max Correa
File Photo
Belleville junior Sean Walsh is a returning All–Super Essex Conference–Colonial Division FirstTeam player.
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