BELLEVILLE POST
Get to know your officers
BHS Class of 2025 graduates
The Belleville High School Class of 2025 had the wind at their backs and the sun overhead as they received their diplomas on Doc Ellis Field at Belleville Municipal Stadium.
The ceremony began with a salute to the flag led by senior Ariannas Navarrete, president of the Student Government Organization.
Singing of the “Star Spangled Banner” and the Belleville High School Alma Mater followed under the direction of Carol Lomardi, a music teacher at the school.
Mikaela Rose Lupaz Cinense, an honor student and president of the senior class, welcomed guests to the event before Navarrete returned and spoke.
The Senior Choral Ensemble, directed by Lomardi, gave a performance of “For Good” from “Wicked.” The lyrics include the following verse:
“I've heard it said
That people come into our lives for a reason
Bringing something we must learn
And we are led
To those who help us most to grow
If we let them
And we help them in return
Well, I don't know if I believe that's true
But I know I'm who I am today
Because I knew you”
Salutatorian Candie Dong, a member of the National Honor Society and a recipient of the state Seal of Biliteracy, was introduced before addressing her classmates.
She was followed by Ethan Duong Nguyen, who was named Valedictorian. Nguyen, a tennis player and honor student, addressed his classmates before turning the microphone over to Principal Caleb Rhodes.
Rhodes spoke before presenting the class to Interim Superintendent of Schools Nicholas Perrapato and Board of Education President Gabrielle V. Bennett-Meany for official acceptance.
Photos by Steve Ellmore Family, friends and relatives watch Belleville High School’s 128th annual commencement ceremony at Municipal Stadium. Below, the graduates stand for the salute to the flag. See additional photos and a list of graduates inside.
Walking to school and getting to know the officer on the beat
The Belleville Police Department participated in its last Walk to School with Belleville P.D. of the school year on June 11. The weather seemed like it might not cooperate at first but the sun came out and so did the kids to make the event a success. The kids walked alongside officers, sharing laughs, high-fives, and learning valuable safety tips to keep them alert and protected on their daily walk to school.
Photos Courtesy of BPD
Belleville hires its first Latino superintendent of schools
BELLEVILLE — Belleville’s newly appointed superintendent of schools says he’s not the sit-in-the-office type of administrator.
He’s already busy visiting the district’s schools and getting to know students and staff members before the summer recess.
Erick Alfonso – selected for the job from a field of 35 candidates – will officially take over July 1 as the superintendent of the Essex County school district that includes 10 schools, about 5,000 students and an overall budget of about $140 million.
He will succeed Nick Perrapato, who had been serving as the interim superintendent.
Alfonso, 37, brings a decade’s worth of experience as a school administrator and educator, having most recently served as the superintendent of schools in Secaucus.
His hands-on approach focuses on being a visible presence in the schools’ hallways. His drive stems from his desire to act as a champion for each student, ensuring no one falls through the cracks.
Alfonso knows first-hand about obstacles in the educational journey, especially for the children of first-generation Americans.
The son of immigrants from Cuba, Alfonso was an English as a Second Language learner as a kid growing up in Union City. He was placed in special classrooms through second grade while he learned the language.
“In this exciting new role in Belleville, I will draw upon my own experiences as a public school student,” he said. “I have a great opportunity to help these students –all students – reach their goals and achieve their dreams.”
The first Latino superintendent of schools in Belleville history has been shaped by growing up in a household where both parents worked hard to make ends meet; he didn’t have a pair of shoes that fit him until he was 13. At heart, Alfonso considers himself fiscally responsible, knowing that every nickel counts.
During his time at Secaucus, he spearheaded efforts to secure more than $5 million in competitive grants and state/federal aid programs. He is especially proud of securing $1.67 million in federal education funding to launch districtwide Universal Pre-K programs and nearly $500,000 to institute diverse school programming that expanded the educational resources and opportunities of students.
So adept has Alfonso become at identifying and securing grant money that he founded his own company, ALIGN Consultant Group, in 2024 to help other school districts navigate the red tape involved with winning additional state and federal revenue to support the budget.
“There is a ton of competitive funding out there that most people don’t even know about,” Alfonso said. “In Belleville, we will work hard to bolster the district’s educational initiatives with grant money and aid. That money can make a big difference in the education of our students, while providing some relief to taxpayers.”
While Alfonso may be considered a young superintendent, many have already taken note of his hard work and vision. For example, he was nominated for an award called the Life Changer of the Year through a Vermont-based insurance company, National Life Group.
And although he didn’t win the national award, dozens of people from across the Bogota school district, where he was serving as a middle school principal at the time, and others posted almost 70 heartfelt messages of support.
“Erick is the most caring, outstanding educator and person I know,” read one message.
“Dr. Alfonso prides himself on being the hardest worker in the room and it shows every day in the way the kids and staff react to him,” read another.
The most emotional message was posted from an anonymous former student who described Alfonso as a guardian angel and shared a story for the award judges.
Here it is: One morning, Alfonso – a state certified anti-bullying specialist –instinctively recognized that the student was shaken. It turned out that events happening in the student’s home were so serious that police were ultimately notified.
“At the end of the school day when I went to see him, (Alfonso) walked me home,” read the message. “He walked me home for a couple weeks so that I felt safe. I’m not sure he really understands how much that meant to me because, for him, it seems like a normal thing to do. People like Alfonso don’t come around too often.”
He began his career as a physical education and health teacher at Englewood on the Palisades School, followed by two years as a physical education teacher with the Union City Board of Education. He gained leadership experience as the dean of students and programs with the Hoboken Board of Education in 2018 and 2019, followed by four years as a high school vice principal and middle school principal for the Bogota Board of Education.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education and health from Kean University, a master’s in educational leadership from Ramapo College of New Jersey and a doctorate in educational leadership from Seton Hall University. He returned to Ramapo as a graduate professor in 2020 and earned his MBA there in 2023.
Alfonso and his wife, Joselyne, met in Belleville and make their home in Hoboken.
Sons of the American Legion bring cookies to the hospital
For the fourth year in a row, the Sons of The American Legion (SAL) Detachment of New Jersey ran a “Cookies for Vets” program, delivering Girl Scout cookies to “make our veterans lives a little sweeter.”
The Detachment, or state-level SAL organization in New Jersey, this year donated $2,264 of cookies to both the Lyons and East Orange Veterans Affairs Campus, through it’s Children and Youth Commission.
A total of 348 boxes – or 32 cases – of Samoas, Tag-a-longs, Thin Mints, and Trefoils made their way into the hands of our hometown heroes undergoing care at the two facilities.
Funding for this project comes from donations from across the state and begins in November. The cookies get purchased in February, and are delivered in April, which is American Legion Children and Youth Month.
The state-level project is part of the Sons of the American Legion’s commitment to two of its core pillars – Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, and Children and Youth. From fundraising and buying the cookies, to having the Scouts and Young Sons deliver them, to the vets getting a surprise tasty treat, this project embodies the spirit of what the Sons of The American Legion is here for, according to a press release from the Sons.
“This project is something near and dear to my heart,” said Children and Youth Chairman Rusty Myers. “It is just a small way we can say thank you to our vets – and let them know we’re thinking about them.”
A few days before Easter, the cookies were dropped off by a Girl Scout from Troop 20122, and a Young Son from Belleville Squadron 105 – plus adult members of the Scouts and the Sons.
“We believe that through an organization such as the Girl Scouts we can achieve greatness and teach leadership, courage, and kindness” wrote East Orange VA Executive Medical Center Director Patricia O’Kane in a letter to the SAL. “It is through efforts of community partners like you that allow us to continue the quality care and services that we seek to provide for our veterans.”
Photos Courtesy of Sons of the American Legion
The Sons of the American Legion brought Girl Scout cookies to the V.A. hospital in East Orange and delivered them with some help from a Girl Scout and a Young Son from Belleville Squadron 105.
Belleville Police Department names Officer of the Month for May
Officer Brendan Sim was named the Belleville Police Department’s Officer of the Month for May 2025. Sim displayed compassion and heroism in two separate incidents during the month. In one case, he went above and beyond to care for a young child whose guardian was in crisis—personally buying diapers to ensure the child’s comfort and donating them to the family. In another, he responded to an unconscious man with no pulse and immediately began CPR. Thanks to his quick action and training, the man regained a pulse and was transported to the hospital for further care. These actions, combined with Sim’s perfect attendance and unwavering dedication to the community, make him an outstanding example of what it means to serve as a Belleville Police Officer.
CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT
CHAMBER ANNOUNCES SUMMER MEMBERSHIP DRIVE
(For a Limited Time, NEW members Only under 50 employees can SAVE $75 for a one - year membership.)
It’s a great time to join the Suburban Essex Chamber of Commerce and see the value and benefits of chamber membership. Call the chamber office for additional information 973-748-2000. Please visit our website www.SuburbanEssexChamber.com.
BECOME A MEMBER TODAY! THANK YOU!
CONGRATULATIONS! — From left, Keira Tagliareni of Bloomfield, Siabella Kenworthy, of Belleville, Gabriella Liloia, of Nutley, Jaritza Sanchez, of Bloomfield, and Regina Salandra of Bloomfield, along with Monet Nicolic, of Belleville, who is not pictured, graduated from Mount St. Dominic Academy on Sunday, June 1. They were among the 61 students to graduate during the school’s 130th Annual Commencement.
Bank announces new manager for Belleville, Nutley branches
Provident Bank recently announced that Sam Mickheal of North Arlington has been named Banking Center Manager of Provident Bank’s Belleville and Nutley branches. Mickheal will be responsible for driving deposit and small business loan growth for the branches, developing sales strategies, ensuring an exceptional customer experience, as well as overseeing the staff and operational integrity of the branches, according to a press release from the bank.
Mickheal has more than 20 years’ experience in retail banking. He previously served as a market sales manager with Provident Bank. He has also held positions as financial center manager, licensed financial specialist, and store manager with Wachovia Bank, now Wells Fargo.
Mickheal earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from New Jersey City University.
“I am excited to have Sam on our team. His extensive background in retail banking and deep knowledge of the Belleville and Nutley communities will greatly enhance our efforts to deliver best-in class financial services to our customers,” said Hafeza Mohammed, first vice president, market sales manager. “Sam understands the important role Provident plays in serving the needs of both businesses and consumers.”
Publisher: David Worrall
Editor: Joe Ungaro
Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina
Photo Courtesy of MSD
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Development of former Hoffmann-LaRoche site making progress
The Nutley Board of Commissioners introduced two ordinances earlier this month related to the ongoing ON3 project following an agreement with the developers of the former Hoffmann-La Roche site, Prism Capital.
The first ordinance pertains to the property located across from the ON3 main campus on Kingsland Street, near Cathedral Avenue, which the developer had initially proposed as a truck depot.
This ordinance establishes “an overlay zone for the redevelopment so that the property can be transformed into a data center or other uses as specified in the redevelopment plan.”
The second ordinance creates an overlay zone for the redevelopment of properties, which were part of the former Hoffmann-La Roche campus, allowing for their conversion into medical offices and practices, as outlined in the redevelopment plan.
Following Mayor John V. Kelly III’s reading of the ordinances on behalf of the BOC, Prism Capital’s Eugene R. Diaz addressed the room.
“There's been an awful lot out there recently regarding a warehouse application for 275 Kingsland St., which was adjourned several weeks ago at the Planning Board meeting,” Diaz said. “I'm here to tell you that that will be adjourned again at tomorrow’s Planning Board meeting, due to the actions that your commissioners are taking tonight to approve two new redevelopment plans that will help guide the remaining redevelopment of the ON3 campus in Nutley to a more amicable and mutually agreeable use. My thanks and gratitude are to your Commissioners, who over the last two weeks, worked way past midnight on many, many nights to resolve an awful lot of major issues, questions and concerns.”
Diaz said the warehouse application will ultimately be dismissed and withdrawn.
“I am fully in belief that your governing body will con-
tinue their efforts to move this along in the appropriate fashion,” Diaz said. “We look forward to withdrawing that application ultimately and proceeding with development of new uses for these sites. I'll leave it up to the Commissioners to tell you what some of those uses will be, but suffice it to say, they won't have that kind of truck and traffic impact that so frightens everybody.”
The mayor asked Township redevelopment counsel Josh Zielinski for his thoughts on the ordinances.
“With respect to the Kingsland site, the redevelop-
ment plan contemplates a data center being placed there,” Zielinski said. “With respect to the Innovation Center, the redevelopment plan contemplates medical research facilities and offices on that site as well. So it is a definite plus and benefit and bonus to the citizens and community of Nutley.”
Commissioner Thomas Evans said getting to this point wasn’t easy.
“Since we began this process, our aim has been to create a future-oriented, technology-focused, science-based campus that promotes economic growth, restores lost ratables from the divestiture of Hoffmann-La Roche, and aligns with community needs,” he said. “I am very pleased with our progress.”
Commissioner Mauro Tucci agreed that getting to this point had been challenging while Commissioner Joseph Scarpelli expressed his gratitude to Prism Capital for their work on the campus so far.
“It has truly become a premier innovation hub in New Jersey and the metropolitan area,” he said. “With our actions over the next two weeks, we will further enhance this life sciences campus.”
"I am pleased to witness progress at the site," Commissioner Alphonse Petracco said. "During my tenure as mayor from 2012 to 2016, it seemed bleak after Roche's departure. It is encouraging to see, through the hard work of everyone involved, that a truck terminal will not be established there. I am also excited about the global settlement and the prospect of regaining taxable properties without any impact on the school system."
The mayor also announced that the public will have the opportunity to voice their opinions on the ordinances at the Board of Commissioners meeting on July 1, at Town Hall.
“We are moving quickly over the next two to three weeks, so mark your calendars,” Kelly said.
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Photo Courtesy of Nutley Twp.
Mayor John Kelly III in the Commissioner Chambers inside Town Hall.
Nutley man honored by county with Pride of Essex County Award
A Nutley resident was among those honored by the county during the annual Essex County LGBTQ Pride Month Celebration.
“Every year in Essex County, we celebrate Pride Month and our LGBTQ community. It is our opportunity to raise awareness about issues that affect this segment of the population and recognize outstanding members of our own LGBTQ community,” Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. said. “Our honorees have done difficult work in their respective fields of providing support, protecting human rights and promoting understanding.”
DiVincenzo, the Essex County Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs and the Essex County Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning Advisory Board hosted the Essex County LGBTQ Pride Month Celebration on Monday, June 16.
During the ceremony, DiVincenzo presented a Pride of Essex County Award to Patrick Koslecki, director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. Awards also went to East Orange Police Chief Phyllis Bindi and the Newark LGBTQ Community Center.
"We are delighted to celebrate the Essex County LGBTQ+ Pride Month Celebration, which is a time to recognize our community's strength, resilience, and unity," said Reginald Bledsoe, director of the Essex County Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs. “ We are working together to create a more inclusive and diverse society,
County
third from right, hosted the Essex County LGBTQ Pride Month Celebration on June 16. He presented Pride of Essex County Awards to, second to left, Patrick Koslecki, director of DEIat Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center; the Newark LGBTQ Community Center, represented by Executive Director Beatrice Simpkins and Board Chair Denise Hinds; and East Orange Police Chief Phyllis Bindi. With them is Reggie Bledsoe, left, Essex County LGBTQ+ affairs director.
where everyone can thrive, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity
Koslecki has been a social activist since he was a student at Caldwell College.
While still a student, he began working at GLAAD and helped coordinate the “For
the 49” campaign to remember the 49 lives lost to gun violence, racism, and homophobia in the Pulse Nightclub Shooting in Florida.
He then became a founder and inaugural member of the GLAAD Campus
ambassadorship where he was able to bridge the gaps between the newly secured freedom of marriage equality and communities who did not agree with the Supreme Court decision.
After graduating, he worked at a law firm in New York City fighting for underprivileged communities. He got back to LGBTQ+ advocacy and became a DEI consultant for Fortune 100 companies and founded Nutley Pride for better LGBTQ+ representation in his hometown.
As the first LGBTQ+ organization in Nutley, a community that had not seen much outward LGBTQ+ expressions, Nutley Pride is one of Koslecki’s proudest achievements, he said.
Koslecki is currently the director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in RWJBarnabas Health and has been for the past five years. He also recently launched the state’s first fully integrated Name Change Clinic for transgender and nonbinary community members and has hosted free HIV testing days for community members to know their status and end the epidemic. Koslecki again is a founding board member of another LGBTQ+ advocacy organization, the JC LGBTQ+ Alliance.
“I am honored to receive this award. There are many challenges we are facing today, but there always have been challenges before us. What we do today matters for the generations of tomorrow,” said Kosiecki.
Photo Courtesy of Glen Frieson
Essex
Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.,
The 2025 graduates from Belleville High School
The following is the Class of 2025 from Belleville High School:
Ethan Duong Nguyen
Candie Dong
A1iyah Alberto
Fabian Alva
Joshua Travis
Pascual Caliolio
Mikaela Rose
Lapuz Cinense
Matthew Cole Garcia Delos Santos
Olivia Rai Guadalupe
Alianette Hernandez Hernandez
Amiya Elizabeth Nate Hutchison
Hao Tuan Khuu
Veronica Mikhaeil
Cecilia Nieves
Melissa Pego
Carol Quezada
Jelena Santiago
Abygail Sylvain
Jaddy Torres
Samantha Isabel Iuazon
Claudette Veluz
Annie Yamunaque Carcausto
Victoria Bojorquez
Dominick Cappelletti
Charles Chabla
Paige Clenaghan
Brennan Delos Santos
Karla Mishelle Elias Mina
Avalina Feo
Francis Gabriel
Nina Sophia Gemino
Samantha Nicole Jarat
Palak Kochhar
Leila Madeison Laldee
Zoe Lopez
Amaralis Martinez
Bianca Yaretzy
Mora Almeida
Matheus·Munoz Puente
Nailea Rivas Cuevas
Ryan Leonardo Vasquez
Isaida Velez
Mia Vicuna
Viviana Yaretzi Zacarias
Frank Anthony Abreu
DavilEnmanuel Acosta
Maria Jose Aguilar luje .
Anthony Aguirre
Benjamin Aguirre
Brian Isaac Ajila
Natalie Brianna A1ecio
Jaida Marie Algarin
Ayah A1shalabi
Alexander Alsina
Nicole Marielle Alvarado
Brandon Alvarez
Christopher Sanguyo Alvarez
Sebastian Loudri A1varracin-Castro
Samirah Alzubi
Didier Amador
Areen Amin
Niyah-Myah Izolia Anabwani
Britney Arianna Andrade-Ponton
Matt Johnniel De Guzman Ang
Chisom Daniela Aniche
Abriana Abigail Arana-Vanegas
Jaylani Araujo
Edwin Gabriel Area
Roberto Arenas
Briana Abigail Arias Faican
Fredy Antonio Armijo Rodriguez
Michelle Armijos
Orlando Antonio Ashman
Giuliana Stefania Astudillo Ruiz
Aiden LAverhoff
Keira Lashay Faith Bacon
Karla Baez
Adryan Baldeon
Tristan Baldevarona
David Joseph Ballesteros
Yanelys Barba t
Isaiah Barreto
Anibal Bastidas Blanco .
Ayanis Oriana Bastidas Blanco
Jonathan Bermeo
Mark Biancolillo
Edjesianyss Bomma-Rivera
Adam Boualdja
Lyric Bradshaw Lamb
Eliezer Brito Perez
Christian Brito
Ahmari Brown
Ilona Bukatiuk
Nicolas Bustios
Joseph Daniel Calderon
Brian Joel Calle Yanez
Aryana Shanelle Camacho
Gabriel Almir Campos
Owen William Campos
Tania Carbajal
Ayden Albert Carrero
Jorge-Steven Carrion Ludena
Maridel Carmen Quinitio Casino
Elisa Castillo
Eric Castillo
Luis Matthew Castillo
Arian Cedeno Villanueva
Elijah Kerwin Celi
Brendan Charneco
Victor Ernesto Chavez Hernandez
Adrian Alexander Chavez
Angela Susana Chavez
Genesis Nicole Chavez
Nicole Aylen Chavez
Fabiana Chipana Ferrer
Kevin Bryan Chumbimune
Alexa Rose Cintron
Ambrose Clenaghan
Joseph Raymond Cobo
Ethan Gavriel Cohen
Alexander Collado
Elias Dario Collado t
Jeremy Collado
Rey Luis Concepcion
Aymar Nicole Conde
Connor Patrick Cook
Jeremiah Alexander Cook
Analise Cordero
Wilson Alejandro Cordones Melo
Camila Cortes-Alonso
Devin Thomas Cortino
Kaitlyn Coto
Cassandra Suncha Cross
Tiron Daniel Noel Culbreath
Johanaliz Cumbieos
Fabiana A1essandra Cura
Isaiah Curtis
Jesse Davies
Haylie Jewel Davila
Tobias Davila
Photos by Steve Ellmore
Class of 2025 President Mikaela Rose Lupaz Cinense welcomes people to the graduation ceremony. Below, Student Government Organization President Arianna Navarrete address the audience.
Wilson Davila
Hayley De Benedetto
Derwin Alejandro De Pena
Robert Joseph DeVito
Abelyn Rose Diaz
Jessica Angelina Diaz
Carlos Diazgranados
Jeremiah Najee Dickens
Jose Antonio Dorta-Gutierrez
Aleksa Dusic
Mark Karam Ebrahim
Connor Egoavil
Angel Manuel Encarnacion Rodriguez
Jamie Delgamo Endrino
Juan Francisco Escobar Mendez
Rossy Anayancy Escobar
Luiza Escobar-Teofilo
David Feliciano-Villarreal
Isabella Felix
Christopher Fermin
Joyce Rachel Fernandez Castilloveitia
Raul Sterling Fernandez Fernandez
Brielle Rhianna Fernandez
Maya Rose Ferraiolo
Nichollas Silveira Ferreira
Nathaniel Figueroa
Jenna Fink
Alexander Jesus Flores
Pedro Andres Flores
Tyler Gerald Fox
Iveth Matilde Franco Alvarez
Kylie Alexis Frank
Kirlos Gaballa
Therese Gabriel
Adam Gad
Andrea Galarza
Angelina Garcia
Chris Angel Garcia
Derick Garcia
Rebecca Nicole Garcia
Leslye Garcia-Villegas
Janessa Ghulam
Asaad-Idrees Gibson
Anthony Giunta
Lucia GGIUNTA
Christopher Gomez
Jeremiah Gomez
Alexander Gonzalez
Alixmary Gonzalez
Derek Gonzalez
Jordan Gonzalez
Kimberlyn Gonzalez
Mithurjan Gopalan
Dominic Grolimond
Kelly Guaman
Shirley Dayanara Guerrero
Jayden Guevara Guillermo
Prisha Nitin Gulhane
Weather was warm and the sun was out for the Class of 2025
(Continued from Page 11)
Tristan Hargrove
Omar Sharif Henry Jr
Aura Patricia Hernandez Rodriguez
Angelyka Rose Hernandez
Anthony Hernandez
Erick Adolfo Hernandez
Michael Hernandez
James Herrera
Carlos Yaser Hidalgo Licona
Alejandra Hidalgo-Corona
Justyn Aiden Hill
Grace Hochstuhl
Nia Hurt
Sherouk Shaaban Ismail
Javali Jackson
Matthew Jagroop
Jayden Johnson
Trent Sterling Johnson
A'Kayla Elizabeth Jones
Amir Nevaeh Jones
Jose Orlando Julca Rios
Brianna Jumbo
Arjun Kanda
Japneet Kaur
Neval Amral Khan
Ti'Asia Ava Corrine Knight
Faruk-Abdul Yumati Kone
Nathan Laboy
Chloe Laquindanum
Mathew Lara-Chacon
Allison Larrea
Ryan Ramon Latta
Robert Laudati
Samantha Belen Lema
CaraJIgui Joannis Leon
Sebastien Alois Leon
Mavric Ligaya
Gabriel Loayza
John Paul Locsin
Jennifer Noemi Lopez
Scott Luis Lopez
Suelen Azucena Lopez
Bradley Lora
Pena Luis
Miguel Lozada
Berenice Aracelly Lucero
Massiely Lugo
Izabella Sofia Luna
Marione Luna
Ciara Natasha Macias Alvarado
Justin Elijah Mackey-Larkins
Crystal Taisha Maldonado Arredondo
Angelo Manalang
Ahmad Ali Manley Jr
Patrick Nicholas Marchesani
Lidsayda De Los Angeles Marquez
Isabelle Hannah Martin
Kevin Alexander Martinez Payes
Eva Martinez
Leannie Blanca Martinez
David Martins De Oliveira
Davian Xzavier Marty-Roman
Jeremy Mata
Adam Mateo
Rafael Thomas Matos
Chloe Abad Matulac
Emily Mauricio
Neyba Shiravel Mayorga Aguayza
Jaalyn Larae McBall-Richmond
Janelle Marie McBall-Richmond
Andrew Medina
Amare Quintin Mena
Dylan Anthony Mena
Osiris Nathaniel Mendez
Jeff Kenzie Mendoza Molina
Isabella Raquel Menendez Chavez
Henesis Patricia Mercedes
Kristel Michelle Mieses De Jesus
Amin Mohamed
Jedediah Jonathan Monroe
Randy Dejesus Montan
Yaulis Montanez
John Monteiro
Timothy Mora
Deveon Morgan
Camila Micaela Morocho Castillo
Amelia Victoria Morrison
Katherine Mosquera
Demetri Jose Moya
Joshua Munoz
Chayla Murdock
Kai Renee Murphy
Arianna Navarrete
Nialani Aliza Negron
Mathew Alexander Neijar
Nicholas Jeffrey Netzke
Livanah Newborn
Robin Newborn
Adanna Nguyen
Jayla Nguyen
Brianna Nieves
Alexa Violeta Novillo
Jayden Novoa
Sebastian Nunez
Stephanie Bernadette Nyegaard
Katelyn OIeas
Sierra Jade Oliver
Jada Onque
Martin Adrian Orbe
Juan David Ordonez
Lesly Dayanara Ordonez-Pinos
Isabelle Ortiz
Nelson Louis Ortiz
Donna Melani Ortiz-Lomas
Ricardo Charles Pacheco
Jolieana Marie Pagan
Michael Parra
Ryan Parsons
Ariancy Paulino
Cristiam Paulino
Norberto Jose Peguero-Marte
Yobelin Samara Pena-Gomez
Taylor Pennola
Viviana Nicole Peralta t
Madison Pereira
Shaniece Yavette Perez Torres
Abigail Lea Perez
Jaylene Perez
Jean Carlos Perez
Jeremy Daniel Perez
Jillianne Mae Dimailig Perez
Tahlia Erica Perez
Brandon Abraham Perry
Lam Pham
VincentPham
Elijah Ibn-Mohammad Pickering
Anthony Miguel Picon
Raul Antonio Pineda
Lindsay Naomi Pinos
Xavier Deerick Pitti-Serrano t
Medeline Polanco-Frias
Ciana Lizeth
Gimena Pomatana
Sergio Calouro Ponte
Photos by Steve Ellmore
Above, Salutatorian Candie Dong speaks to classmates during he ceremony. Below, Ethan Nguyen gives the valedictory address.
Bucs will be heading off to college, military, trade school and the workforce
(Continued from Page 12)
Andrew David Poveda
Elias Fabian Pravia
Wilson Noel Pravia
Zury Scarleth Proano Cobos
Camila Quinde
Brianny Kinasha Quiros Martinez
Dario Raggi
-Juan Camilo Ramirez Munoz
Sabrina Ramirez
Matias Ramseyer
Mckayla Reed
Christina Elizabeth Regalado
Manuel Jose Reyes
Antonio Rios
Adam Hendrick Rivera
Andrew Rivera
Anneliese Mary Rivera
Arlenys Lizmarie Rivera
Brandon Mathew Rivera
Carlos Rivera
Cristian Nicolas Rivera
Daniel Rivera
Gabriel Albert Rivera
Josh Alejandre Rivera
Shania Rivera
Carlos Robalino
Ethan Robinson
Efrain Alberto Roca
Gabriella Rodas
Aiden Isaiah Rodriguez
Armand Rodriguez
Christopher Michael Rodriguez
Esmerlyn Rafael ~odriguez t
Jacob Jared Rodriguez
Christopher Rodriguez-Pena
Angel Steven Rojas
Laura Rosales Boy
Brandon Rosario
Jordan Dennis Rosario
Kiara Rosario t
Yandel Rosario t
Angel Josue Rosario-Correa
Nathan Isadore Viterbo RosIer
Brianna Marie Ruiz
Valentina Elizabeth Salinas Claudio
Daniel Silva San Martin
A1isse Veronica Sanchez Mendez
Erick David Sanchez Moreira
Arturo Sanchez
Dylan Joshua Santana
Xavier Juelz Santana
Danaijah Santiago
Servio Gabriel Sarangot
Geovanni Andree Sarceno
Ashton Sardar
Juan Sebastian Sarmiento Echeverry
Yamile Serna
Leandro Serna-Valencia
Ethyn Sevillano
Shota Shubitidze
John Michael Silva
Gabriela Simbana
Quadirah Layonee Simmons
Alexa Rose Simoes
Ashley DllVi Singh
Andy Sebastian'Solano Taipe
Kayla Anabel Solano-Torres
Sheyla Isabel Solano-Torres
Wilberto Solorzano
George Alexander Soto
See CONGRATULATIONS, Page 16
Congratulations Congratulations
BELLEVILLE HIGH SCHOOL BELLEVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
JOMAR LAUNDROMAT JOMAR LAUNDROMAT
Congratulations to the Belleville High School Class of 2025
(Continued from Page 14)
Vernazza Kimberlee Marie Soto-Garcia
Dominick Spina
Jhosue Jeremias Suarez Duarte
Jordi Alexander Suarez
Ariana Marialyssa Suero
Gabriel Suero
Jeraldi Sylvain
Richard Tanczos
Justin Tannickal
Steve Tapia
Angelina Grecia Tejada
Adriana Samira Tello-Gutierrez
Tomas Teran
Dressy Then Hernandez
Deven Thomas
Angela Tirado
Nemesis Edna Tito-Hualpa
Aaron Toledo
Jayleen Naomi Toledo
Victor Raul Toledo
Yorelis Ivette Torres Gonzalez
Anthony Luis Torres
George Andres Torres
Mateo Torres
Valeria AIejandra Torres t
Barron Tran
HuyAnh Tran
Nicole Trujillo
Justus Samuel Tschopp
Jayden Turner
Leea Udvarhely
Miabella Updegrove
James David Urgiles Penafiel
Jaiden Antonio Valle
Caesar Vasquez
Eliana Isabel Vasquez
Amaya Velez
Madison Velez
Allison Naomie Villacreces
Caila Lynn Vitale
Emily Fernanda Winter
Emilio Yepez
Jorge Yepez
Isaac Dimitrides Yika
Bryan Stalin Yunganaula
Reinoso Shawn Dennis Zarett
Michael Thomas Zulla
Congratulations Congratulations
CL ASS OF 2025 CL ASS OF 2025
BELLEVILLE HIGH SCHOOL BELLEVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
St. Peter School holds graduations, celebrates its successes
The St. Peter School community was all smiles in early June as a number of students graduated from their respective grades. The Pre-K class stepped up to kindergarten, while the kindergartners, in white robes and hats, had their graduation ceremony at the St. Peter School Auditorium. The eighth grade class, pictured upper left, seen with their School Principal Phyllis Sisco and home-room teacher Jonathan Matulac, had their Baccalaureate Mass and Commence-
ment Ceremonies in the Parish Church. Randy Leon and Adorah Modeste, top right, are seen receiving a scholarship from the Belleville Knights of Columbus Council 835 at the Awards Ceremony held prior to the graduation ceremonies, along with officers of the Council. Anyone interested in registering their children (Pre-K3-8th) at St. Peter School, located at 152 William Street, can contact the School Office at 973-759-3103.
St. Peter’s Church holds confirmation service for 75 teenagers
Photos Courtesy St. Peter’s Church Seventy-five teenagers from the Parish of St. Peter received the Sacrament of Confirmation earlier this Spring at a Mass celebrated by Manuel A. Cruz, auxiliary bishop for Essex County. Adorah Modeste, accompanied by her godmother, is seen right after being anointed with the Oil of Chrism.
A Nutley resident was among the winners of the 2025 Essex County Senior Citizen Legacies Writing Contest.
Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. and the Division of Senior Services announced the results of the contest during an awards luncheon at the Cherry Blossom Welcome Center in Essex County Branch Brook Park in Newark on May 28.
The Legacies Writing Contest encourages Essex senior citizens to write essays about the people and events that have influenced their lives.
“Our Senior Citizen Legacies Writing Contest is a unique way for our older population to share their life’s stories and describe the people and events that helped to shape their lives,” DiVincenzo said. “Our seniors’ stories make you laugh and touch your heart. They provide us with a different perspective on historical events and what our society was like.”
Selected as winners of the 2025 Senior Citizen Legacies Writing Contest are Carol T. Jenkins from East Orange who wrote “The Day Dad Died,” Linda A. Buset from Nutley who wrote “Eleven Years,” Eva M. Ogens from Caldwell who wrote “Rich in What Matters” and Maryam Bey from Newark who wrote “Your Life Struggles Prepare Your Purpose.”
Receiving honorable mentions were Pamela Gaston from Maplewood who wrote “My Little City,” Glenda R. Mattox from East Orange who wrote “Teachers that Taught Me,” Coni Evans from Verona who wrote “Toby the Hot Dog Man” and Geremia Helou from Fairfield who wrote “A Forever Frozen Moment.”
•.Buset wrote about taking care of her aging parents as she and her husband underwent cancer treatment, and her daughter suffered a stroke. Her parents passed away about two months apart and her husband, after going into remission from cancer three times, passed away.
•.Jenkins said she was “daddy’s little girl” when she was growing up. Despite living on a budget, her father, Courtland, always would give in and get her what she wanted: tickets to a doo wop concert, a drawing kit and a new hat, to name a few. When she got older, she visited her father weekly. However, one day when she arrived, there were fire trucks at the apartment building where he lived. She learned later that the fire started in her father’s residence after he fell asleep while cooking. She visited him in the hospital every day; “I knew that he knew I was there because the electronic monitor near his bed would spike,” she wrote. After five days in the hospital, her father passed away.
•.Ogens wrote “Rich in What Matters,” about her father, who escaped Nazi Germany in 1939, came to the United States and worked in a metal and machine shop. He fought in World War II and was proud of his U.S. military service.
•.Newark resident Maryam Bey wrote
“Your Life Struggles Prepare Your Purpose,” about the difficult times she experienced growing up and how it prepared her for her life’s work teaching and helping others.
Sponsored by the Essex County Division of Senior Services, the Legacies Writing Contest was started in 1996 and was part of a national contest which encouraged senior citizens to discover the joys of writing while sharing their stories with others. Although the national contest was discontinued in 1998, the Essex County Division of Senior Services continued to sponsor the Legacies Writing Contest on a local level.
Winning stories were selected by a committee of volunteer judges and staff from the Essex County Division of Senior Services.
Wasko makes the Dean’s List at Lebanon Valley
Alexandra Wasko, of Nutley, was named to the Dean's List for the spring 2025 semester at Lebanon Valley College. Dean's list students must maintain a GPA of at least 3.4 out of 4.0. Lebanon Valley College is in Annville, Pa.
Garcia makes the Dean’s List at Cedar Crest
Ashley Garcia, of Belleville, was named to Cedar Crest College's Spring 2025 Dean's List. The Dean's List recognizes students who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to their studies by earning a grade point average of 3.65 or higher in the academic semester. Cedar Crest is located in Allentown, Pa.
Belleville students on the Dean’s List at Kean
The following students from Belleville were named to the Dean’s List at Kean University: Brayan Cordova; Mia Twiggs; Zoe Hall; Yalianel Ortiz; Leonardo Salomone; Priscilla Tapia; Joseph Abramson; Ana Ochoa; Diego Ochoa; Andrew Llerena.
Nutley students on the Dean’s List at Kean
The following students from Nutley were named to the Dean’s List at Kean
University: Lauren Vanderkooy; Gabrielle Mercado; Miguel Benitez; Gemma O'Farrill; Amanda Gibney; Adrianna Quinn; Genesis Santos Baez; Kendra Hergenhan; Ryan Sokolowski.
Ingles named to President’s List at Champlain College
Jonathan Ingles, of Belleville, was named to the Champlain College President's List for the Spring 2025 semester. Students on the President's List have achieved a grade point average of 4.0 or higher during the semester. Ingles is majoring in game design.
Tran graduates from Bucknell University
Meghan Tran, of Nutley, graduated with a bachelor of science in business administration from Bucknell University on May 18.
Forlenza on Dean’s List
Emanuel Forlenza, of Nutley, has been named to the 2025 Emmanuel College Dean's List. Forlenza has a double major; Spanish and political science.
Conklin graduates from College of Charleston
Mackenzie Conklin, of Nutley, graduated with a bachelor of arts in communica-
tion from the College of Charleston this spring.
Flores on 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 spring 2025 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.
Shanklin earns Ph.D
Nicole Shanklin, of Nutley earned a doctor of education: educational leadership from Centenary University in Hackettstown.
Kirby makes President’s List at Vermont State Univ.
Emma Kirby, of Nutley, was named to the President's List for the spring 2025 semester at Vermont State University. President's List designation is reserved for the students who maintain full-time status and a semester grade point average of 4.0.
Nutley residents on Dean’s List at Quinnipiac Univ.
Nutley residents Elizabeth DeSantis, Gabriella Gigante and Ella Romonowski
were named to the dean's list for the Spring 2025 semester at Quinnipiac University. To qualify for the dean's list, students must earn a grade point average of at least 3.5 with no grade lower than C.
Nutley residents on Dean’s List at Fairfield University
Nutley residents Sarah Gibney, Laina Giella, Reilley Granelli, Mary Rado, Charlotte Romano, Riley Sebastiano and Mark Surretsky received Dean’s List honors at Fairfield University for the spring 2025 semester.
In order to be placed on the Dean's List, students must have completed a minimum of 12 credit hours in a semester, have no outstanding or incomplete grades for that semester, and have attained a semester grade point average of 3.50 or better.
Bayne makes Dean’s List at University of Wisconsin
Grace Bayne, of Glen Ridge, has been named to the Dean’s List in the School of Education at The University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Nutley Chamber of Commerce has plenty planned this year
• The Nutley Chamber of Commerce has the following events planned:
• Nutley Chamber Business Mixer
Thursday, June 26, 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Essex Cigar Lounge
• Nutley Chamber Networking Breakfast
Thursday, July 17, 8 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Chris & Angie's Dinette
• Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Thursday, July 17, 9:45 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Luxury Flowers
• Nutley Chamber Business Mixer
Thursday, July 24, 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Hyssop Beauty Apothecary
• Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Thursday, July 24, 5:45 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Hyssop Beauty Apothecary
• Nutley Chamber Networking Luncheon
Thursday, Aug. 21 , 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
The Oakley Kitchen
• Restaurant & Foodie Week
Mon Aug. 18 - Thursday, Aug. 28
• Nutley Chamber Business Mixer
Thursday, Aug. 28, 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Proponent Federal Credit Union
• Nutley Chamber Networking Luncheon
Thursday, Sept. 18, 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Sonoma Bistro Bar and Grill
• Nutley Chamber Business Mixer
Thursday, Sept. 25, 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Gary Marino at Rate Mortgage
• Nutley Chamber Networking Lunch
Thursday, Oct. 16, 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Nutley Family Service Bureau
• Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Thursday, Oct. 23, 5:30 p.m. - 6 p.m.
The Sweet Life Cafe
• Nutley Chamber Business Mixer
Thursday, Oct. 23, 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
The Sweet Life Cafe
• Sidewalk Sale
Sat Oct. 25, 9 a.m. - Sunday, Oct. 26, 6 p.m.
• Nutley Chamber Thanksgiving Luncheon
Thursday, Nov. 20, 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
VFW Post 493
• Santa's Arrival
Fri Nov. 28, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Nutley High School Park Oval
• Small Business Saturday
Sat Nov. 29, 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
• Nutley Chamber Holiday Mixer
Thursday, Dec. 4 , 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Cowan's Public
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GOT ONE! — Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. announced that Luke Vicente (second from right) from Nutley caught the most fish in the boys’ ages 1-5 category at the Essex County Fishing Derby in Monte Irvin Orange Park in Orange on June 10. He caught one fish. Presenting the award are Essex County Parks Director Dan Salvante, Luke’s mother Gina Vicente and Program Coordinator Jacqueline Matthews.
Photo courtesy of Essex County
Nutley High School girls softball team has good run, players gain SEC accolades
The Nutley High School softball team enjoyed a good run this season.
The sixth-seeded Raiders went 2-1 in New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association’s North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 state tournament. They defeated No. 11 seed Carteret, 11-1, in the first round on May 29 at Yanticaw Park field and upset third-seeded North Hunterdon, 5-3, in the first round on May 30 at North Hunterdon in the quarterfinals, before losing at No. 2 seed Summit, 6-3, on June 4 to finish the season with a 15-12 record.
The following NHS players earned All–Super Essex Conference–Liberty Division honors, as selected by the division coaches:
FIRST TEAM
• Gabriella Mariano, senior.
• Sianna Kantor, senior.
• Camryn Ortega, sophomore.
SECOND TEAM
• Makenna DeJianne, sophomore.
• Gigi Liloia, freshman.
HONORABLE MENTION
• Kaitlyn Nellegar, sophomore.
• Sophia Rocha, sophomore.
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GO FISH: Olivia Vicente (center) from Nutley caught the most fish in the girls’ ages 1-5 category at the county Fishing Derby in Monte Irvin Orange Park in Orange on June 10. She caught two fish. Presenting the award are Director Dan Salvante and Coordinator Jacqueline Matthews.
BHS softball players earn SEC honors
The Belleville High School softball team featured several players who earned All–Super Essex Conference–Colonial Division honors this season, as selected by the division coaches.
FIRST TEAM
• Leilani Paredes, freshman. SECOND TEAM
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• Anniyah Thompson, junior.
• Nina Gemino, senior.
• Brooke Nelson, sophomore.
HONORABLE MENTION
• Emily Anuscavage, freshman. The young Buccaneers made nice progress during their eight-win season.
Photo Courtesy Essex County
TORCH RUN — Belleville Police Department officers participated in the 42nd Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run on June 6 to raise awareness for New Jersey Special Olympics. The BPD leg of the run began in Nutley and stretched into Branch Brook Park in Newark. More than 3,000 officers statewide participated in the event, running in 26 separate legs starting as early as 4:45 a.m. The event led up to the Special Olympics New Jersey Summer Games, held at The College of New Jersey June 78. The officers are known as the "Guardians of the Flame," keeping the "Flame of Hope" burning bright in the Garden State. The Torch Run began in 1981 in Wichita, Kansas, and is the largest grass-roots fundraising movement for the Special Olympics.
Photos Courtesy BPD
Full schedule of free activities planned for summer in Belleville
BELLEVILLE — With all the free community events planned this summer, it’s going to be a hot summer in Belleville.
A series of free concerts, movies and much more are planned every Thursday at Belleville High School presented by Mayor Michael Melham, the Township Council and the Belleville Recreation Department.
The fun runs throughout summer, to the end of August.
And if that doesn’t sate your appetite for fun, food trucks will be available at every event, showcasing a wide variety of ethnic specialties you just can’t find elsewhere.
“Since we started the summer concert series, I’ve noticed how it fosters such tremendous community spirit,” Melham said. “Nothing brings us together like music, food and friends under the stars on a summer night.”
The summer fun starts off with a bang on Thursday, July 3, with an Independence Day fireworks show complete with clowns, rides, face painting and bouncy houses for kids.
Belleville will be abuzz with activities the following day, starting with “Yoga in the Park” at No. 7 School, 20 Passaic Ave., at 9:30 a.m. A memorial event to honor Revolutionary War soldiers will be held at the Belleville Dutch Reformed Church, 171 Main St., followed by a color run at Belleville High School, 100 Passaic Ave., at noon.
The summer concert and movie series will kick off July 10. You should plan to get to the high school by 6:30 p.m. for concerts, 7 p.m. for movies.
Here is the schedule:
• July 10: Freestyle Night with George Lamond, TKA and DJ Ralph Tunis
• July 17: “Moana 2” movie night with free popcorn
• July 24: Xtreme Queen (Queen tribute band)
• July 31: K’Ndela Salsa (with a live salsa class by MDN Studio)
• Aug. 7: Motown to the 80s featuring White Wedding and Valerie & The Dimensions
• Aug. 14: “Wicked” movie night with free hotdogs
• Aug. 21: The Cameos, New Jersey’s favorite oldies group
• Aug. 28: Country night with Saltwater Country, plus line dancing with Danceflix. The night and summer series concludes with fireworks.
Photo Courtesy Belleville Twp.
The township has planned concerts and movies for nights throughout the summer.
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
SOCIAL MEDIA STAR AND COMEDIAN
JOSH JOHNSON PRESENTS THE FLOWERS TOUR AT NJPAC on Saturday, June 28, at 7 and 9:45 p.m., at Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $39.50 to $59.50 at www.njpac.org.
AMERICA’S HOTTEST COMEDIAN MO AMER performs on Saturday, Aug. 9, at 8 p.m., at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St. Newark. Tickets are $42.50 at www.njpac.org.
GENX TAKEOVER: THE COMEDY TOUR HITS NJPAC on Saturday, Aug. 23rd,at 8 p.m., Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org.
MIKE EPPS BRINGS UNFILTERED COMEDY TO NJPAC on Saturday, Sept. 20, at 8 p.m., Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org.
TOM PAPA, ONE OF AMERICA'S TOP COMEDIANS, returns to NJPAC on Friday, Nov. 7, at 8 p.m., Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, One Center Street, Newark. Tickets start at $43.50 at www.njpac.org.
COMEDIAN BEN SCHWARTZ & FRIENDS TO PERFORM AT NJPAC on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 7 p.m., at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets start at $43.50 at www.njpac.org.
MS. PAT BRINGS UNFILTERED COMEDY TO NJPAC on Friday, Dec. 19, at 7 p.m., NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org or by calling 888-466-5722.
LECTURES
BEATLES MAGIC: RARE FOOTAGE and EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS hosted by Beatles expert Charles F. Rosenay and archivist Erik
Taros on Sunday, June 29, at 3 p.m., at Drew University Concert Hall, 36 Madison Ave., Madison. Tickets are available at GDPresents.simpletix.com or call 917-567-5842.
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., at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $49.50 to $103.50 at www.njpac.org.
MUSIC
RICK SPRINGFIELD: I WANT MY ’80S TOUR FEATURING JOHN WAITE, WANG CHUNG AND PAUL YOUNG, on Saturday, July 12, at 7 p.m., at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, One Center St., Newark. Tickets are $59 to $149 at www.njpac.org.
DYNAMIC SOUL MUSIC WITH KEM on Friday, July 18, at 8 p.m., at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets start at $49 at www.njpac.org.
CHICAGO COMES TO NEWARK on Friday, July 25, at 8 p.m., at New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
MORRISTOWN JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL on the Morristown Green on Saturday, Aug. 16. The Festival kicks off at noon with Dani G and Friends; at 2 p.m., the U.S. Army’s Big Band, the Jazz Ambassadors take the stage; at 4 p.m., Blues People follows; 6 p.m., King Solomon Hicks; and at 8 p.m., Samantha Fish ends the show. For more information, visit www.morristownjazzandblues.org.
BERES HAMMOND AND FRIENDS will perform on Saturday, Aug. 16, at 8 p.m. at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $78.50 at www.njpac.org.
KASHMIR – THE SPIRIT OF LED ZEPPELIN LIVE on Friday, Sept. 19, at 8 p.m., at NJPAC
Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $49.50 to $69.50 at www.njpac.org.
FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS, THE LAST ENCORES on Saturday, Oct. 11, at 8 p.m, at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, One Center Street, Newark. Tickets start at $49.50 at www.NJPAC.org or Box Office 888-466-5722.
HEROES FOR GHOSTS – A PINK FLOYD TRIBUTE on Oct. 11, at 8 p.m., Union County Performing Arts Center, 1601 Irving St., Rahway. Tickets at https://ucpac.vbotickets.com/ AIR SUPPLY 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR on Sunday, Oct. 26, at 7 p.m. at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $60 at www.njpac.org.
DIANA ROSS performs on Monday, Oct. 27, at 7:30 p.m., at New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $69, $99, $129, $159 and $259, plus applicable fees, at www.ticketmaster.com.
NJPAC PRESENTS THE BLUES IS ALRIGHT FALL 2025 TOUR WITH KING GEORGE, TUCKA, POKEY BEAR, WEST LOVE,
LENNY WILLIAMS, AND THEODIS EALEY on Saturday, Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets starting at $75 at www.njpac.org.
THEATER
WELCOME TO NIGHT VALE: MURDER NIGHT IN BLOOD FOREST STARRING CECIL BALDWIN, SYMPHONY SANDERS AND SURPRISE GUESTS on Thursday, July 10, at 8 p.m., at NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage, One Center St. Tickets start at $46.00 at www.njpac.org.
NUYORICAN POETRY SLAM TEAM PERFORM on Friday, July 11, at 7:30 p.m. at NJPAC, Chase Room, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $19 at www.njpac.org.
“THE WITCHER IN CONCERT” on Friday, Sept. 19, at NJPAC. The concert celebrates the video game “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” and includes the soundtrack performed live. At NJPAC, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets can be purchased by visiting NJPAC.org or calling 888-466-5722.
AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER IN CONCERT will land in Newark at New Jersey Performing Arts Center on Friday, Oct. 3, at 7:30 p.m. Audiences will be immersed in a two-hour performance with a live orchestra that brings the show’s iconic musical score to life in perfect harmony paired with visual highlights and favorite moments from all three seasons of the series. At NJPAC, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at njpac.org or 888-466-5722.
NARUTO THE SYMPHONIC EXPERIENCE NORTH AMERICAN TOUR comes to NJPAC in Newark. Audiences will see a live orchestra perform the most iconic songs and themes from the Naruto animated series, live-to-picture, as scenes play out on a full-size cinema screen on Saturday, Oct. 4, at 8 p.m., at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
Photo Courtesy NJPAC Frankie Valli
visit www.EssexNewsDaily.com.
BHS athletes announce their college decisions
Belleville High School Athletics honored several senior student-athletes who announced their collegiate decisions to continue their athletic careers, during a recent ceremony.
The following are those athletes:
• Nicholas Bustios, Fairleigh Dickinson University–Madison, soccer.
• Eric Castillo, Caldwell University, soccer.
• Jeremiah Cook – Kean University, football.
• Tristan Hargrove — Iona University, rowing.
• Izabella Luna, New Jersey City University, wrestling.
• Raul Pineda – FDU–Madison, soccer.
• Jolieana Pagan – FDU cheerleading.
• Shaniece Perez– Caldwell University, cheerleading.
• Wilberto Solozano, FDU–Madison, soccer.
• Yamile Serna, FDU cheerleading.
• Anthony Torres – Caldwell University, track and sprint football.
BHS baseball team has good run, players earn SEC honors
The Belleville High School baseball team, seeded 13th, upset No. 4 seed Union City, 11-0, in the first round of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association’s North Jersey, Section 1, Group 4 state tournament on Tuesday, May 27, at Union City.
Junior Sean Walsh pitched 6 ⅔ solid innings, while junior Crismel Deleon and freshman Jake Gonzalez each had two hits.
“This was a huge win for our program, as it was our first state tournament win since 2015,” said BHS head coach Joe Sorce.
The Bucs, unfortunately, were eliminated in the second round, losing at fifth-seeded Ridgewood, 10-0, on Thursday, May 29.
“We held them in check until the bottom of the fifth, but then they
exploded for nine runs,” said Sorce.
The Bucs finished the season at 1213 and in third place in the Super Essex Conference–Colonial Division.
“The coaching staff is very proud of the effort the players put in this season,” said Sorce. “We had some great wins and some tough losses. Every day was a battle, but our guys kept persevering, which speaks highly of their character.”
On Monday night, June 2, the following BHS players were voted into the following All–SEC–Colonial Division awards: FIRST TEAM
• Senior infielder Ayden Carrero.
• Junior infielder Sean Walsh.
• Junior outfielder Crismel Deleon. HONORABLE MENTION
• Senior Rafael Matos.
Belleville High’s Cross given Berra Best Teammate Award
For the 13th consecutive year, the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center, located on the campus of Montclair State University, hosted student-athletes from member schools of the Super Essex Conference, along with their families and coaches, for a celebration of the qualities that made Yogi Berra a national treasure.
The 40 recipients of the 2025 Yogi Berra Museum Best Teammate Award exemplify the strength of character, sportsmanship and supportive spirit that, though often unheralded, are vital to a team’s success.
The Belleville High School recipient is Cassandra Cross, who lettered in volleyball, wrestling and flag football, while the Nutley High School recipient is Sander Boissard, who lettered in football.
“The Best Teammate Award allows us to formally recognize young people who are embodying the positive ideals that Yogi lived by his entire life, both on and off the
field,” said Eve Schaenen, the Museum’s Executive Director. “This year is particularly special for us, as the Museum celebrated what would have been Yogi’s 100th birthday earlier this month. We are very grateful to Stadium System for their ongoing support, and to wonderful partners at the SEC for helping us make this experience possible for these 40 exceptional student athletes.”
The winners, selected by their respective athletic departments, enjoyed a celebratory banquet before hearing from special guest speaker, Larry Berra, the eldest son of Hall of Famer, Yogi Berra. Berra addressed the 2025 Best Teammate Award recipients in his remarks, stating: “Some teammates are born leaders. They’re just made that way. But those people are very rare. For the rest of us mere mortals, we have to work at it. You put in the work. And if you put in the work, it will serve you now, and in the future.”
Photo Courtesy of Belleville High School Athletics
Belleville senior Nicholas Bustios, middle, will attend Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison to play soccer. Also shown are his parents. To see photos of the other Belleville seniors who announced their college decisions,
Photo Courtesy of Belleville High School Athletics
Belleville senior Cassandra Cross with Larry Berra, son of the late Hallof-Famer Yogi Berra.
healthy living
How to stay cool during what is anticipated to be a hot summer
With 2023 and 2024 having been the hottest summers on record, there’s reason to believe 2025 will bring more of the same. But it doesn’t have to mean soaring energy bills or an overworked, outdated air conditioning system.
If you’re like many consumers, you’re looking for energy saving solutions, but may not be aware of all your options. A Midea survey conducted by Atomik Research found that 76% of homeowners agree that they are more focused on energy efficiency now than they were five years ago.
At the same time, more than half (54%) were unsure or unknowledgeable about the full capabilities of heat pumps, particularly their ability to provide both heating and cooling.
“Despite the name, heat pumps, are not just for heating, they’re also for cooling, and some of the latest models are engineered for even the toughest North American climates,” says David Rames, senior product manager at Midea. “As more homeowners make upgrades to prepare for increasingly extreme temperatures, heat pumps will be at the center of the shift.”
Unlike an air conditioner, which blasts cool air indoors, a heat pump actually removes hot air from the home and pumps it outside. It does the opposite during winter, transferring heat indoors instead of creating it.
One model redefining what’s possible in heating and cooling is the Midea EVOX All Climate Heat Pump, which delivers high performance, energy savings, quiet
operation, advanced filtration and year-round reliability. Part of a system that was engineered to replace traditional gas furnaces, its dual-fuel compatibility and inverter-driven system is flexible, integrating seamlessly with existing gas furnaces to offer a cost-effective upgrade without the need for a complete system overhaul.
Many people assume a high-performance heat pump will fall outside their budget. But cost-savings in the form of rebates and lower bills can make it well worth the investment.
For example, in addition to delivering up to 32.5% energy savings compared to conventional HVAC units, those who install the Midea EVOX All Climate Heat Pump can qualify for up to $8,000 in federal rebates through the DOE Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) program.
So what else can you do to keep cool at home in summer in addition to switching to a next-generation, ultraefficient heat pump?
Sealing air leaks is just as important in extreme heat as it is in extreme cold. A quick, DIY visual inspection can identify leaks. And if needed, a professional inspection can give you a complete overview of how to improve your home’s efficiency.
You can also keep your home cooler by investing in energy efficient appliances that reduce byproduct heat emission. Finally, in a heat wave, consider adjusting your habits.
Limit the use of appliances such as the iron, oven and dryer to mornings and evenings, and use shades or blinds to reduce direct sunlight in your home’s spaces during the late morning and early afternoon.
With the right equipment and a few updates to your routine, you can stay cool at home all summer long. – StatePoint
Dr. Daniel Groisser
Heat pumps are preparing homeowners for increasingly extreme temperatures.
