The Sons of The American Legion Squadron 105 of Belleville held their first Flag Education and Etiquette Course on Feb. 3 at the Post Hall on Washington Avenue.
The class participants were from the Post 105 Family – veterans, Sons, and Auxiliary members – as well as from the Wolf Den of Nutley’s Pack 141 Cub Scouts.
“Understanding why and how it (the flag) is to be displayed and retired is important as an American,” said Den Leader Pete Hoisick. “Knowing the respect the flag gets and deserves helps build pride in the flag, the people who have defended it, and in our country.”
Detachment of New Jersey Adjutant Rusty Myers developed the program which discussed flag history, taught the U.S. Flag Code, flag retirement ceremonies, and how to fold the flag. The course ended with a frequently asked questions session where many misconceptions about flag care and respect were debunked.
The presentation lasted under an hour.
“Flag Etiquette is something which doesn’t get taught anymore like it used to,” said Myers. “As long as you leave here with one or two things you didn’t know, we did our job.”
The class started by delving into the history of the American Flag – by talking about the flag’s lineage from its roots in the Sons of Liberty Flag in 1770’s America, all the way through its most recent iteration in 1960 when the last two stars representing Alaska and Hawaii were added.
It followed with everything about the Flag Code … talking about how the flag is supposed to be displayed, how it is and is not allowed to be used, and how it is supposed to be honorably retired. The Sons also purchased literature to hand out – so everyone left the class with copies of The United States Flag Code and a booklet produced by The American Legion titled “Let's Be Right on Flag Etiquette.”
The American Legion itself was prima-
rily responsible for The Flag Code being developed in 1923.
The highlight of the class, though, was teaching how to fold the flag.
Myers and SAL 105 Commander
James Elsmore folded the large casket-
sized flag, as Wolf Den Leader Hoisick read what each one of the 13 folds of a flag stand for. The students were also handed 8 inch by 12 inch grave flags which they folded and took home.
Hoisick’s son Ramsey said afterward that his “favorite part was learning how to fold the flag”; he also said he would like to participate in and see the flag burning ceremony for retired flags at Post 105, which will be scheduled for Spring 2025.
“I'm glad I attended. I am now more knowledgeable about our flag and the immense value it holds,” posted American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Unit 105 Chaplain Jackie Elsmore. “I'm sure the Cub Scouts will remember this class.”
Each participant was also gifted an American Flag Lapel Pin by the SAL to thank them for attending.
Photos Courtesy SAL Post 105
Greg Caponer and Cub Scout Troop 141 practice folding flags. Below, Squadron 105 Adjutant Rusty Myers demonstrates how to fold a flag.
Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. (fourth from right) announced that the Township of Belleville was among the 12 Essex County municipalities and 36 community organizations that received a total of about $5.7 million from the Community Development Block Grant program and the Emergency Services Grant program on Tuesday, Feb. 4. The township received $300,000. The CDBG and ESG programs are funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and administered by the Essex County Division of Housing and Community Development. With the county executive are (from left) Chief of Staff Phil Alagia, Commissioner Len Luciano, Economic Development, Training and Employment Director Anibal Ramos, Belleville Engineer Tom Herits, Commissioners Brendan Gill and Patricia Sebold, and Housing and Community Development Director John Soares.
CDBG grant will help replace lead service lines
BELLEVILLE — The township will use $300,000 in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to help meet the state-mandated deadline to identify and replace lead service lines.
The funding is earmarked to replace the water main and lead service lines on Charles and Center streets.
“We are grateful for this federal funding that will help ensure that Belleville residents continue to enjoy safe, clean, drinkable water,” Mayor Michael Melham said.
Belleville is among the 12 municipalities and 36 community organizations to receive a total of about $5.7 million from the CDBG program, Essex County officials said.
The CDBG program, funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and administered by the Essex County Division of Housing and Community Development, supports community development initiatives, such as affordable housing, anti-poverty programs and infrastructure development.
Gov. Phil Murphy in 2021 signed a package of bills into law that require the identification and replacement of lead service lines by 2031.
Photo courtesy of Glen Frieson
Writer of Belleville’s history has photography show
A Belleville native, who has written extensively about the township, has his photographic work on display as part of a library’s popular art and photography series.
Anthony Buccino is a writer, editor, and photographer who began his photography journey by shooting film for the stories he produced while working for local newspapers.
“Photography challenges me to stop and see the world, and to try to capture what I see so you can see it, too. Sometimes I set out to shoot something specific. Other times I am called to a scene that says, ‘shoot ME!,’” Buccino said. “My journalism background -- shooting photos for news stories -- continues to influence my view of the world and the world I see through the camera lens.”
Buccino edited business news for 12 years at Dow Jones & Co. and The Wall Street Journal. He worked for several years as an associate editor at TheStreet.com. He has written in online publications about life and growing up in northern New Jersey. For five years he wrote about commuting and transit in metro New York-New Jersey.
Buccino has also written several books including “Greetings from Belleville, New Jersey: Collected Writings’; “Belleville and Nutley in the Civil War: a Brief History”; and “Belleville Sons Honor Roll: Remembering the men who paid for our freedom.”
Buccino, 70, was born and raised in Belleville. He graduated from Belleville High School in 1972 and settled with his wife, Dawn, in Nutley, in 1978. The pair attended Montclair State College (before it was a university) where he majored in English and minored in journalism. Dawn taught middle school English for 38 years.
Currently, his photographic work will be displayed during the whole of March at the West Caldwell Public Library’s popular art and photography series in its Richard R. Cass Art Gallery, 30 Clinton Road, West Caldwell. There are 42 photos in the exhibit.
“I do a lot of walking around Nutley taking pictures,” Buccino said. “It’s very relaxing to me to go out and find something that other people just walk right by.”
He developed a particular interest in local history after he was asked to manage the Nutley Historical Society’s website about 15 years ago.
His research uncovered stories about local people like a soldier who held off an attack during the Korean War so his squad could escape and was never heard from again and a sailor whose ship was sunk but who survived in shark infested waters by covering himself in oil. He knows that 350 men from Nutley and Belleville have died in the service of their country but none during the War of 1812.
“We’ve had suffragettes, people who founded the Red Cross,” Buccino said. “I just think all that stuff is neat.”
While his wife was teaching middle school in Belleville, he was invited to address students who were studying World War II. He talked about local soldiers and sailors and read the names of the streets they had lived on.
“Kids came up afterwards, saying ‘you read my street, do you know what number?’,” Buccino said.
Over the years, his photos have won awards and appeared in both print and online news sources. His work has been included in the NBAS Photography Exhibition at the Alfa Art Gallery, and solo exhibits at the Montclair Public Library and the Nutley Library. Buccino is a member of the Essex Photo Club whose monthly meetings, in Caldwell, explore photography insights and offer competition challenges.
Each of his photographs aims to tell a story, highlighting unique everyday subjects through different points of perspective.
Buccino said there is always something worth photographing.
“Ever hear a person holding a camera say, aw, there's nothing around here to photograph,” Buccino said. “Balderdash! Where we're coming from in Essex County in northern New Jersey, there are so many places to shoot within an hour, and many within minutes that we have some difficulty choosing where to point our cameras. The Great Falls of Paterson are only 15 minutes away. You’ve got to see them in ice. Hemlock Falls, just over the mountain.”
Buccino’s exhibit photos have been curated from his published collections of cityscapes such as “New Orleans in Plain View,” “New York City Snapshots,” “Harrison Next,” “Jersey City Snapshots,” and “Nutley Snapshots.”
Other photos capture simple everyday things such as items you might find in the kitchen as well as gas stations and other eclectic shots.
For additional information about Anthony Buccino, visit his website: www.AnthonyBuccino.com
an Anthony
tracks in the Nutley area. Below that, a
taken at the Veterans of All Wars Monument in Nutley. The bottom picture was taken at Campbell’s Pond in South Mountain Reservation. Bottom left, a
Buccino taken in South Mountain Reservation.
Photos courtesy of Anthony Buccino
Top photo,
Buccino shot taken along abandoned railroad
photo
photo of
Officer Nicole Skelly named Belleville P.D. Officer of the Month
The Belleville Police Department recognized Officer Nicole Skelly as its first-ever Officer of the Month.
During the course of an incident that occurred in January, Skelly displayed exceptional compassion and outstanding problem-solving skills, creating a positive bond with a young child during a very emotional time. She remained with the child, providing comfort and reassurance until the child could be safely reunited with her mother.
Officer Skelly’s professionalism, empathy, and unwavering commitment to the community were evident throughout this encounter, making her truly deserving of this honor. Beyond this incident, Skelly consistently demonstrates the qualities that define an outstanding officer—dedication, integrity, and a strong connection to the people she serves. Her work ethic, commitment to public safety, and ability to handle difficult situations with poise make her a perfect choice for the department’s first ever, Officer of the Month!
Publisher: David Worrall
Editor: Joe Ungaro
Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina
CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT
~ Serving Bloomfield, Belleville and Glen Ridge Businesses ~
Date: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2025
Snow Date: THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2025
Location: Provident Bank, 100 Bloomfield Avenue, Bloomfield T
: 6:00 PM Guest Speakers
• Trinidad De La Rosa, Sr. Mgr. of Community Outreach and Partnership, Rising Tide Capital
• Michelle Osorio, Sr. Small Business Liaison, New Jersey Economic Development Authority
Please register in advance 973-748-2000 or email admin@suburbanessexc
The Township of Belleville has begun the process of removing the
Motorists parking on Washington Avenue who see the parking meter covered should find the nearest Park Mobile sign and use a phone to process the payment.
To pay, scan the QR code with a phone and follow the instructions. If you do not have a smartphone, call 833-785-1200 and process your payment with ParkMobile customer service.
BHS students try welding, learn about careers in manufacturing
BELLEVILLE — Brian kept his elbow locked at a 90-degree angle and his head perfectly still as he slowly moved his arm horizontally.
This was the Belleville High School senior’s fourth or fifth attempt, as he began to master the proper technique to weld together two slabs of metal.
“That was the best one yet,” he said, removing his welding mask to reveal a smile underneath.
This was only a virtual simulation inside the school’s auditorium, but you could already see the sparks of inspiration and opportunity.
Sixty-five seniors used a computer simulation program to learn the basics of welding, got a crash course on how to program a metal engraver, operated a robotic arm, watched a 3-D printer at work and more. It was all part of a two-hour program designed to open their eyes to the possibility of a career in manufacturing.
The Future Makers & Creators Tour, which stopped at Belleville High School on Jan. 23, gave students a chance to meet and connect directly with local manufacturers, learn about career opportunities and see the true face of manufacturing for themselves.
This program, created by the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP), is important to students who are unsure which path to take once they graduate from high school, said Joe Lepo, the school district’s director of curriculum
The Future Makers & Creators Tour stopped at Belleville High School on Jan. 23. The tour gives students a chance to meet local manufacturers and learn about career opportunities. Students pictured in this photo are getting hands-on experience with an engraver.
instruction for grades 7-12 and the director of high school guidance.
Larry Banks, an operations and business development specialist for NJMEP, said there are many factors that could make a career in manufacturing the perfect choice for a high school graduate, and chief among them is the availability of jobs.
He said there are an estimated 25,000 manufacturing jobs open in New Jersey, which boasts about 9,000 factories. Inside the manufacturing umbrella are careers such as machinists, electrical engineers and high-tech tool operators in fields ranging from pharmaceuticals to food distribution to textile manufacturing.
In New Jersey, corporate giants such as Benjamin Moore, Mars Chocolate and Lockheed Martin employ thousands of manufacturing workers from across the state, Banks said.
At Belleville High, there were more than a few eyes opened among those students seated in the auditorium when Banks reported that the average annual salary for manufacturing work in New Jersey is between $75,000 and $85,000.
Banks said the Future Makers & Creators Tour, which visits schools in all 21 counties, dispels long-held misconceptions that all manufacturing jobs are grueling, outdated or unpleasant.
“We're trying to correct the stigma out of there,” he said. “Now, mind you, there are definitely some jobs out there that are still dirty jobs, but that’s not the entire space of manufacturing. We want to show them that you have clean room environments, such as in food manufacturing.”
The auditorium was charged with enthusiasm, as the high school students rushed about to take full advantage of the demonstrations while Assembly members Carmen Morales and Michael Venezia (D34), New Jersey State Monitor Thomas Egan and district Business Administrator Matthew Paladino looked on.
“We’re doing a lot in the guidance office, ensuring that students know their options and providing them with the exposure they need to make fully-educated decisions,” Lepo said.
Photo Courtesy of Belleville School District
Photo courtesy BPD
Health screenings available in Nutley
The Nutley Health Department has announced its 2025 Health Screening schedule to promote community wellness.
All are free for residents and located at the Nutley Health Department, 149 Chestnut Ave. The schedule is as follows:
• March 11: Colorectal Cancer Education and EZ-Detect Kits, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Free kits, no registration needed.
• April 24: Depression Screenings, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Registration required.
• May 19: Stroke Screenings, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Includes cholesterol testing and counseling.
Registration required.
• June 26: Memory Assessment, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. No registration needed.
For additional information, please call the Nutley Health Department at 973284-4976.
Fundraiser set for April 26
BELLEVILLE — The Bloomfield Lions Club will present “A Night With the Nags Fundraiser” on Saturday, April 26 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 94 Bridge St., Belleville.
The event, which is expected to last from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., will include a buffet, beer, wine and desserts. The cost is $40 and there will be door prizes, a 50/50 raffle and “horse races,” according to an announcement from the Lions Club.
To reserve a ticket, call 973-980-5885,
The 2025 Columbus Day Parade Honorees are, from left, Stephen Donald, Louie Ritacco, Christine Raimo Lamparello, Steven J. Rovell, Andrew Frank Garruto, Dr. Frank A. Cocchiola Jr., Julia Alongi Palma, Trisha P. Badalamenti, Anthony Cassano, Andrea Lyn Cammorato-Van Benschoten, William Lynch, and Cristina Marie Latino.
Columbus Day Parade honorees are announced
The Nutley Belleville Columbus Day Parade Committee announced the 2025 Honorees of the 43rd Annual Columbus Day Parade at a Meet and Greet held at Mamma Vittoria on Monday, Feb. 3.
The 2025 Honorees are:
• Grand Marshal – Dr. Frank A. Cocchiola Jr.
• Lifetime Achievement – Steven J. Rovell
• Italian Heritage Award – Andrea
Lyn Cammorato-Van Benschoten
• Italian Business Leader Award –
Louie Ritacco, Luna Wood Fire Tavern
• Nutley Italian Man of the Year –
Andrew Frank Garruto
• Nutley Italian Women of the Year –
Trisha P. Badalamenti and Julia Alongi Palma
• Belleville Italian Man of the Year –
Stephen Donald
• Belleville Italian Woman of the Year
– Christine Raimo Lamparello
• Renaissance Woman – Cristina Marie Latino
• Renaissance Men – Anthony Cassano
• Community Excellence Award –William Lynch, R.Ph Good Health Pharmacy
The 43rd annual parade will take place on Sunday, Oct. 12, starting at 12:30 p.m. at Belleville High School.
The Annual Italian Pasta Dinner fundraiser is scheduled for Sunday, March 23, at the Nutley Parks and Recreation building from 2 to 6 p.m. Tickets are $45 and can be purchased by calling Barbara Freda at 973-6503849
Photo courtesy of NBCDPC
GIRL SCOUT WEEK GIRL SCOUT WEEK
March 9-15, 2025
Girl Scout Week, the week of Girl Scouts’ birthday on March 12, is a great time to celebrate with faith communities to share about Girl Scouts and its benefits, thank faith partners for their support and give girls the opportunity to be recognized in their places of worship.
Building girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.
This message is sponsored by these community minded businesses and organizations
STATE FARM INSURANCE
Renee Friscia, Agent
Providing Insurance and Financial Services 146 Franklin Avenue
Nutley
O: 973-667-6600
F: 973-667-0642 renee@nutleyinsurance.com
GREGORY PEREZ, D M D 230 Centre Street
Nutley 973-667-1095
S. W. BROWN & SON
FUNERAL HOME
John F. Brown, Mgr NJ Lic No. 2633 267 Centre Street
Nutley 973-667-0875 www.swbrownandson.com
WALT SMITH
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT CONSULTANT
We can help with your Medicare planning 568 Prospect Street
Nutley 973-931-2686
SANDY LANE
NURSERY SCHOOL 634 Mill Street
Belleville 973-751-6380
D & L AUTOMOTIVE 251 Washington Avenue
Nutley 973-667-4688 dandlautomotivenj.com
NATIONAL SPORTSWEAR 368 Cortlandt Street Belleville 973-759-2005 www.njsportswear.com
FEDERAL CREDIT UNION 433 Kingsland Street 173 Bloomfield Avenue
Nutley 800-457-8058
NUTLEY JOURNAL BELLEVILLE POST 908-686-7700 EssexNewsDaily.com
LOOK:
Police
stopped by Belleville High School last month for a routine check and to say hello to the students and staff but ended up leaving with a fresh new look. The students in the school’s cosmetology class convinced him to take a seat in the chair and get a fresh cut.
Photos courtesy BPD
FRESH
Belleville
Department Sgt. Anthony Abate
The 46th annual Nutley St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The 46th Nutley Irish American St. Patrick's Day Parade is scheduled for Saturday, March 1.
Pre-parade activities include an Investiture Mass, beginning at 10 a.m. at St. Mary's Church, 17 Msgr. Owens Place, in Nutley.
The parade begins at 1 p.m., beginning at Holy Family Church, 28 Brookline Ave. The parade route travels on Harrison Avenue, before going north up Franklin Avenue and ending on Chestnut Street with the review stand in front of John Walker Middle School.
A family-friendly post parade party is planned and scheduled to start at 3 p.m. at Nutley Parks and Recreation, 44 Park Ave. The party will include music provided by The Captain & O’Neill Band. Tickets are available online at www.nutleyirish.com or via email at postparade@nutleyirish. com. Tickets are $35 per person in advance, $40 at the door.
The parade is a family tradition for many in town and this year’s roster of dignitaries is a good example.
Police Officer of the Year Brendan Sim’s father, Scott Sim, was a grand marshal and his sister, Morgan Grande, was a parade queen.
This year’s parade queen, Rachel May Hamilton, is the daughter of a former grand marshal and sister of a deputy grand marshal.
Nutley Irish American Association Officers
President - Deidre Hollywood
Vice President - Shane McClafferty
Treasurer - Brenda Sherman
Corresponding Secretary - Colleen Nielsen
Recording Secretary - Ellen Bennett
Legal Counsel - Francis J. Costenbader
Trustees
Ellen Bennett
Deidre Hollywood
Dan Kane
Joseph McNish Jr. Shane McClafferty
Judy McIntyre
Colleen Nielsen
Steven Plumer
Brenda Sherman
Steve Tucholski
Tony Wieners
All parade photos in this commemorative edition were taken by staff photographer Steve Ellmore at previous Nutley St. Patrick’s Day Parades.
Nutley business owner is named 2025 grand marshal
The Nutley Irish American Association has announced that John Kaufman is the 2025 Grand Marshal of the St. Patrick’s Day parade.
John traces his Irish roots to both his mother’s and father’s sides of the family. John’s mother Kathy is a retired North Arlington High School teacher. Kathy’s grandfather was born in County Sligo. His father, John Kaufman Sr., is a retired Jersey City fire captain.
John was born at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson and was raised in North Arlington. He attended St. Benedict’s Prep in Newark. John earned a bachelor’s of science in biology from Richard Stockton University, and continued to further his education there to achieve a doctorate degree in physical therapy. John is also proud to say that he, along with his brothers, Christian, Luke and Keith, are all Eagle Scouts.
John began his physical therapy career at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in
2003. In 2010, he opened his own physical therapy practice in Nutley, Core Physical Therapy, located on Franklin Avenue.
John met his wife Krysty while they were in college. They will be married 17 years in June and have resided in Nutley since 2006.
Together they have two children, Shayla Maureen and Shane Patrick. They are extremely proud of their children who love to play sports and travel.
John grew up with his father bringing him to St. Patrick’s Day parades, then continuing the tradition of going to parades with his friends in his twenties, and now with his own children. John is excited to be honored as the grand marshal of the Nutley St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
To him, this role is not only a significant personal milestone but also a wonderful opportunity to celebrate his rich Irish heritage and the strong bonds that unite the community.
John Kaufman
Teacher, coach is 2025 deputy grand marshal
The Nutley Irish American Association has chosen Kevin Smyth as the 2025 Deputy Grand Marshal of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Kevin’s grandfather, John Smyth was born in 1901 in Newry, County Down. He was a member of the Irish Army and was known as Black Jack among the Northern Ireland Soldiers. He immigrated to the United States in 1926.
His grandmother, Mary Smyth (nee Keady) was born in 1908 in Curnicarton, Kilmaine, County Mayo. She was a nurse, who was recruited by St. Michael’s Hospital in New York. Mary immigrated in 1928 and she and John married in 1934.
Kevin was born to Joseph and Margaret Smyth. Unfortunately, when Kevin was a toddler, his father passed away. His mother Margaret remarried to Saulle Critelli who raised him as his own. Kevin is the oldest of six siblings: Anne Marie, Joseph, Robert, Rosie and Rachel. Kevin is a lifelong Nutley resident. He is a graduate of Lincoln Elementary School, Franklin Middle School, and Nutley High
School. Kevin continued his education at Rutgers University where he double majored in English and labor studies. He earned a master’s degree from Montclair State University in education.
Kevin has been an employee of the Nutley Board of Education since 1991. He’s been a sixth-grade teacher at Washington School for the past 27 years and was named Teacher of the Year in 2014. While teaching students is fulfilling, Kevin’s true passion is rowing. He’s been the head rowing coach for Nutley High School for the past 35 years.
Kevin has been married to his wife Jen for 25 years. They met while rowing. Together they have two children who are both currently studying at Rutgers, Emily and Patrick.
Kevin has been a member of the Nutley Irish for the past 10 years and is very excited to be the 2025 Deputy Grand Marshal. He likens being a dignitary as to being elected into the Hall of Fame, and he cannot wait to march down the streets he grew up on on March 1.
Kevin Smyth
BPD patrolman is 2025 police officer of the year
The Nutley Irish have chosen Belleville Patrolman Brendan Sim as the 2025 Police Officer of the Year.
Brendan traces his Irish heritage to County Mayo and County Down, through Healy, McClean and Quinn lineage. The McClean family settled in Paterson in the 1880’s and the Healys and Quinns emigrated through Newark in the 1860’s.
Born and raised in Belleville to Scott and Maria (nee Di Paolo), Brendan attended St. Thomas the Apostle School followed by Queen of Peace High School. He studied specialized engineering at Penn State for a year, before answering his call to law enforcement.
Brendan comes from a long line of civil servants. He is the fifth consecutive generation to be a police officer. His great greatgrandfather John was a Newark police officer in 1902. His great-grandfather Jack was a captain in the Essex County Police Department. His grandfather William was a police officer in Essex Fells before becoming a Belleville firefighter, and his father Scott is a retired captain of the Belleville Police Department.
Brendan’s law enforcement career started in 2009 when he was a dispatcher for the Montclair Police Department. He left there in 2012 to be a dispatcher in Glen Ridge. In 2014, Brendan became a police officer in Glen Ridge. He was there until he joined the Belleville Police Department in 2016. He is currently a
patrolman in Belleville as well as a firearms instructor, a member of the Emergency Services Unit and a field training officer.
Brendan’s appreciation for his Irish heritage began at a very young age. He was an Irish step dancer with the Peter Smith School of Irish Dance, prior to becoming an open champion with DeNogla School of Irish Dance.
Brendan is currently a member of the Essex County Emerald Society, and Essex County Emerald Society Pipes and Drums, where he is a bass drummer.
Brendan lives with his wife Nina and their two children, Liam and Liliana in Randolph. He is excited to march down Franklin Avenue on parade day, just as his father Scott Sim, 2009 Grand Marshal, and his sister Morgan Grande (nee Sim) 2017 Parade Queen.
Belleville Police Department Patrolman Brendan Sim
‘Hail Mary’ Darragh chosen for
NIAA 2025 member of the year
The Nutley Irish American Association has chosen Mary T. Darragh as the 2025 Member of the Year.
Mary traces her Irish paternal roots to County Cork. Her father Bob’s family immigrated to the United States in 1865. Her mother, Theresa Lynch, traces her roots to Listowel in County Kerry and they immigrated to the United States in the early 1900’s.
Mary was born and raised in Jersey City alongside her brothers Robert, Mark, John, Matthew, Tucker and Arthur. She attended elementary school at St Joseph’s School and attended high school at William L. Dickerson. She studied business at Jersey City State University.
Mary joined the New Jersey Highway Authority in 1989 as a toll collector and retired in 2016 as a tolls supervisor. She started her own livery business in 2019 called MTD Transport. She lightheartedly tells people, “Don’t hail an Uber, hail Mary!” This tagline has caused her to have the nickname, Hail Mary!
Mary has been a member of the Nutley Irish for at least 10 years. She supports almost every event that the club organizes, and helps when she can. Mary loves being a member, and has a great time wherever she goes.
Mary moved to Nutley in 1996 and has been happy to have raised her son Spencer with Julie Serritella in the Nutley School system. They all still live in Nutley along with their dogs, Ruby and Jenny.
JOMAR LAUNDROMAT JOMAR LAUNDROMAT
Mary T. Darragh
ROOFING
Roof Replacement
Gutter Installation
PAINTING
Interior & Exterior
Deck Refinishing
Floor Refinishing
CARPENTRY
Deck Building
Millwork
Floor Installation
Cabinet Installation
CEMENT/STONE
Additions
Attic
Kitchen &
Shayne Martin was the 2022 parade queen.
Rachel May Hamilton is the Nutley 2025 parade queen
The Nutley Irish American Association has named Rachel May Hamilton as the 2025 Parade Queen.
Rachel’s Irish heritage is on her Hamilton side. Her grandparents James “Skipper” and Mary Hamilton immigrated to the United States in the late 1950’s. They were both born and raised in Dublin. Skipper was a drill sergeant for the Military Police in the Irish Army.
Rachel was born in Denville and raised in Nutley. She is a product of Lincoln School, John Walker Middle School and Nutley High School. Rachel recently graduated from Montclair State University with a bachelor of arts degree.
She was on the Dean’s List for all four years of college and was enrolled in the National Honor Society of Leadership and Success. She intends to continue her education by attending law school within the next couple of years. After college, Rachel earned her paralegal certification and she is currently a full-time paralegal at Clemente Muelle, P.A.
Rachel is excited to carry on the Irish tradition of being a Nutley St. Patrick’s Day Dignitary. Her father, Mike Hamilton, was grand marshal in 2001 and her brother, Chase Hamilton, was deputy grand marshal in 2022. Irish culture is an
important part of her life. She grew up listening to the Dubliners and the Wolfe Tones.
Her grandfather would make her Irish soda bread often, and he made Christmas pudding every year. She has several family members in St. Columcille United Gaelic Pipe Band, and it’s one of her family traditions to attend mass each year to commemorate the Easter Rising of 1916.
Rachel May Hamilton
Nancy DeLima, Agent
Grand Marshal JOHN KAUFMAN
Deputy Grand Marshal KEVIN SMYTH Member of the Year MARY T. DARRAGH Parade Queen RACHEL MAY HAMILTON
of the
STUDENT NEWS
Snoha makes Dean’s List at University of Wisconsin
Sofia Snoha, a student in the College of Letters and Science, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison was named to the Dean’s List for the fall semester of the 2024-2025 academic year.
Wasko named to Dean’s
List at Lebanon Valley
Alexandra Wasko, of Nutley, was named to the Dean’s List at Lebanon Valley College for the fall 2024 semester. Dean's list students must maintain a GPA of at least 3.4 out of 4.0. Wasko is pursuing a bachelor of science in neuroscience at The Valley and is a graduate of Nutley High School.
Nutley residents on President’s List at SNHU
Kerry Walsh and Alexis Ramos, both of Nutley, were named to the Fall 2024 President’s List at Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester.
Berrospi makes President’s List at
SNHU
Brillitt Berrospi, of Belleville, was named to the Fall 2024 President’s List at Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester.
Williams
on
Dean’s List at East Stroudsburg Univ.
Mehki Williams, a communication major from Nutley, was among those named to the Dean's List at East Stroudsburg University in Pennsylvania.
Kraft on track team at Kutztown University
Jensen Kraft of Nutley is among the 73 student-athletes representing Kutztown University’s track and field program for the 2024-25 season.
Students,
Nutley residents on the Dean’s List at Bucknell
Nutley residents Erin Granelli, Class of 2028, undeclared, Bella Guzman, Class of 2026, psychology, and Meghan Tran, Class of 2025, finance were named to the Dean’s List at Bucknell University for outstanding academic achievement during the fall semester of the 2024-25 academic year. A student must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a scale of 4.0 to receive dean's list recognition.
Nutley residents on the Dean’s List at TCNJ
The following students from Nutley have earned placement on the Dean's List at The College of New Jersey for the fall 2024 semester. To achieve this honor, a student must carry 12 or more credits that semester and earn a 3.5 (or above) grade point average: Gabriella Chipelo; Rachel Echevarria; Gabriella Gustoso; Jacob Lomonaco; Ilana Melichkin; Vivian Phu; Jenna Pomponio; Ethan-Michael Ramos; Daniella Serafino; and Rebecca Wechter.
Signorile on Dean’s List at Northeastern University
John Signorile, a graduate of Nutley High School and resident of Nutley, made the Dean's List for the Fall of 2024 from Northeastern University.
Garcia on Dean’s List at Cedar Crest College
Ashley Garcia, of Belleville, was named to the Dean's List for the Fall 2024 semester at Cedar Crest College in Allentown, Pa.
Huang earns masters at Georgia Tech in Atlanta
Lu Huang, of Nutley, earned a master of science in computer science from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta. It was conferred in December.
Shinin makes President’s list at Charleston
Stephanie Shinin, of Belleville, was named to the College of Charleston Fall 2024 President's List. Shinin is majoring in finance. To qualify for the President's List, students must earn a GPA of 3.800 or higher and complete a minimum of 12 semester hours.
Belleville students make Honors List at FDU
The following students from Belleville studying at Fairleigh Dickinson University's Metropolitan Campus, located in Teaneck, were named to the Honors Lists for the Fall 2024 semester: Karol Romero; Jalianyss Martinez Rivera; Lucas Ortega; Sanaa Haskins-Bruen.
Nutley students make Honors List at FDU
The following students from Nutley studying at Fairleigh Dickinson University's Metropolitan Campus, located in Teaneck, were named to the Honors Lists for the Fall 2024 semester: Emory Osmani; Garivaldi Longo; Michael Conforti; Macario Villanueva; and Gianna Lembo.
Nutley studens make Dean’s List at FDU
Lauren Bowling; Sarah Gibney; Reilley Granelli; Mary Rado; Charlotte Romano; Riley Sebastiano; and Mark Surretsky, all of Nutley, were named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2024 semester at Fairfield University .
Nutley students on Dean’s List at Quinnipiac Univ.
Elizabeth DeSantis and Ella Romonowski, both of Nultey, were named to the Dean's List for the Fall 2024 semester at Quinnipiac University. To qualify for the dean's list, students must earn a grade point average of at least 3.5
Belleville students on Dean’s List at FDU
Jehyleni Monegro, Faith Coira, and Nicolas Rios, all of Belleville, have all been named to the Dean's List for the Fall 2024 semester at Fairleigh Dickinson University's Metropolitan Campus, located in Teaneck.
McNulty on Honors List at Fairleigh Dickinson
Gianna McNulty, of Nutley, a student at Fairleigh Dickinson University's Florham Campus in Madison, has been named to the Honors List for the Fall 2024 semester.
Colarusso named to Dean’s List at Hartford
Angelina Colarusso of Nutley was named to the Dean's List at the University of Hartford for the fall 2024 semester.
McGuire makes Dean’s List at Univ. of Hartford
Morgan McGuire of Belleville was named to the Dean's List at the University of Hartford for the fall 2024 semester.
Ingles makes Dean’s List at Champlain College
Jonathan Ingles, of Belleville, was named to the Champlain College Dean's List for the Fall 2024 semester.
Nutley students on Dean’s List at Univ. of 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.
teachers at St. Peter School in Belleville celebrated Catholic Schools Week
St. Peter School held several activities to mark Catholic Schools Week in January. Students, pictured left, showed their excitement and gratitude for the gift of a Catholic education. Pictured center, are eighth-grade students with Fr. David Hinjosa, parochial vicar, after the blessing of their classroom. Right, students from different grades expressed their gratitude through their artwork.
Photos courtesy of St. Peter
healthy living
An annual exam can help older adults stay healthy
One of the best ways to prioritize your vitality is with an annual health exam. That’s especially true for older adults, who tend to have more health issues to manage, according to Dr. Grant Tarbox, national medical executive with Cigna Healthcare’s Medicare business.
Annual exams can vary and go by different names, depending on your coverage. Generally, they are offered at no cost to you through Medicare or Medicare Advantage (MA) and there are a host of reasons to get one, Tarbox said, including the following:
Having a health care team leader. It’s important to have a trusted advisor leading your health care team. That is the purpose of a primary care physician (PCP). A PCP knows your family and treatment histories and concerns. They play an important role keeping a broad view of all your care needs and can help you navigate them. By visiting your PCP at least annually, you maintain a critical relationship that will serve you well when you need it. Putting a plan together. Your annual exam is the time to discuss which health screenings and immunizations could be
important for you based on your age, gender, and medical and family history. These include such things as a flu shot, a mammogram, or a colorectal screening. Talk to your doctor about what preventive care activities are right for you and put together a plan to get them. Most are covered at no extra cost through Medicare or MA.
Addressing conditions before they worsen. Aging increases the risk of certain chronic illnesses such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes and arthritis. Ignoring these conditions won’t make them go away. Always tell your health care provider about any recent changes you are experiencing. Working with your provider to proactively manage a chronic condition before it worsens helps you to maintain your independence and vitality. Reviewing medications. If you take one or more medications, an annual exam is a good time to review them with your PCP. You may even want to take your prescriptions to your appointment. Are these medications effective? Are you taking them as prescribed? Are there any undesirable side effects? Are there potential harmful interactions, including with overthe-counter drugs? You also can secure your refills and maybe even shift to home delivery for convenience or to save money. Making lifestyle adjustments. Even small changes can help you live longer and better. Talk honestly with your health
Prescriptions • Medical Supplies • Orthopedic Supplies
Wheelchairs •
care provider about your lifestyle. They may recommend changes, such as exercising, stopping smoking, or eating healthy. Checking on your mental health. Your emotional health impacts your physical health. Depression doesn’t have to be a part of aging. Let your health care provider know if you are feeling sad, anxious or hopeless. They may recommend increasing your social interaction. Additionally, treatments, such as talk therapy, medication or both, may be covered by Medicare or MA.
For more tips on how to make the most of your annual exam, visit https://www.cigna.com/medicare/member-resources/#media-resources.
If those aren’t compelling enough reasons to get an annual health exam, then consider the fact that some Medicare Advantage plans will even pay you an incentive to ensure that you get one, said Tarbox. He added that you may also want to see your dentist and eye doctor annually to ensure whole body health. Those visits are among the extra benefits often covered by an MA plan, he said. –StatePoint
Photo courtesy of Jacob Wackerhausen / iStock via Getty Images Plus
healthy living
Lasers: A safer alternative to weight-loss drugs?
Weight-loss drugs have skyrocketed in popularity because of their quick results and use among celebrities and influencers. J.P. Morgan predicts that by 2030, 30 million Americans will use them.
However, some medical providers say the drugs’ hidden health risks may not be worth their benefits.
“Weight loss is so often prescribed to improve health,” said Dr. Cesar Lara, a board-certified medical bariatric physician. “The irony is that many of today’s weight-loss medications bring forth their own set of serious risk factors.”
Hidden risks
A growing number of weight-loss drug users report side effects including nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, fatigue, depression and suicidal ideation.
And because these drugs are relatively new for weight-loss purposes, questions linger about their long-term impacts.
Lara said patients considering the drugs should know their potential side effects and alternative options.
“I would advise any patient of mine who needs or desires to lose weight to
investigate safe options, like low-level lasers, and to understand the risks of taking medications that could potentially compromise their health,” Lara said.
Safer alternatives
Low-level lasers are a non-invasive,
pain-free option for people seeking safer weight-loss treatment.
For example, the Emerald Laser, an FDA-cleared low-level laser for fat loss and body contouring, is additionally FDAcleared for treating obesity, making it a good choice for those with a lot of weight
to lose. The Zerona, also an FDA-cleared low-level laser for fat loss and body contouring, has over-the-counter clearance for overall body circumference reduction, providing a way to quickly target stubborn areas of fat.
Both lasers create temporary tiny pores in fatty cells to release fat, which the body’s lymphatic system naturally removes. Ultimately, the lasers shrink fat cells without damaging them.
This controlled approach helps ensure optimal results in target areas such as the waist, chest or back and requires no recovery time.
Unlike many other weight-loss treatments, lasers do not elevate plasma lipids, triglycerides or cholesterol. They also don’t cause bruising or swelling.
Fat-loss laser treatments are often available at doctors’ offices, chiropractors, spas, health centers and fitness centers. To find a location near you or to offer a laser service at your business, visit fatlosslasers.com. When considering your weight-loss options, prioritize safe, noninvasive treatments with no side effects.
Dr. Daniel Groisser
American Legion remembers the four chaplains at annual Mass
Rusty Myers
Adjutant, Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105
The annual Four Chaplain’s Mass was held Feb. 2 at St. Stephens Roman Catholic Church in Kearny with strong attendance from Belleville’s American Legion post.
The Four Chaplains - Methodist minister Rev. George L. Fox, Reform Rabbi Alexander D. Goode, Catholic priest Father John P. Washington, and Reformed Church in America minister Rev. Clark V. Poling – all served as U.S. Army chaplains during World War II.
In January of 1943, they set sail from New York along with 900 other soldiers headed for Greenland aboard the USAT Dorchester, a troop transport which was part of a larger convoy. On the morning of Feb. 3, the ship was torpedoed by a German U-boat and quickly sunk.
The chaplains were seen handing out life jackets and helping soldiers into the water, eventually giving up their own life jackets to save other men. Survivors of the Dorchester, of which there were only 230 out of 904, recall seeing the four men standing arm-in-arm on the ship as it went down, praying and singing. The chaplains all went down with the Dorchester.
To honor that sacrifice, veterans, patriotic organizations, and veteran service organizations from around the area gather at the invitation of St. Stephen’s to
attend a Mass in the Chaplain’s honor each year on the first Sunday in February. In a remarkable addition to that, descendants of the Dorchester’s survivors from around the country attend, as well as descendants of the chaplains themselves – now 82 years after the vessel's sinking.
“Four men, three faiths, one God. It was their underlying strength to do God's work on that fateful February morning in 1943 that remains to this day the reason that I attend this very memorable Mass annually,” wrote Post 105 Legionnaire Ed Saegers. “As a proud veteran it is an honor to be a small part of this meaningful celebration.”
St. Stephens has the unique distinction of being a church where one of the chaplains was actually stationed as a parish priest. Originally from the Roseville section of Newark, Father John P. Washington was assigned to Kearny in 1938, before his enlistment in 1941. Because of his connection to the church, there is a large statue outside of the four men standing and praying on the deck of the Dorchester, along with the Sanctuary of the Four Chaplains residing in the church itself.
For the fifth year in a row, the American Legion 105 Family has been invited to attend, along with other Bergen, Essex, and Hudson County American Legions. The mass, filled with trumpets, organ, and bag pipe music, is somber in nature celebrating these four lives, representing the very best of humanity. +
Photos courtesy American Legion Post 105
Top left photo, James Elsmore, left, and Greg Shaffer, at the Mass; top right, members of American Legion Post 105 in the congregation at St. Stephens; bottom, a group photo of the Essex County American Legion family in front of Four Chaplains Memorial.
RIBBON CUTTING — The Belleville UNICO Chapter recently joined the Suburban Essex Chamber of Commerce. Pictured at the Belleville Senior Citizen Center during a monthly chapter meeting are, from left, Al Dorso of State Fair, Belleville Town Manager Brian Banda, UNICO member Eleanor Guarino’s daughter, Belleville UNICO member Sal Barbera, Belleville UNICO member Judy Piscatowski, National UNICO President Anthony Bengivenga, Eleanor Guarino, Barton Risolli, President of
the Essex Chamber of Commerce Mario Drodzdz, Belleville UNICO member Adele Gimon, Belleville UNICO member Barbara Lozal, Belleville Chapter President Peter Caggiano, Belleville UNICO member Vinny Rotondo, Belleville UNICO member Patricia Zygnerski, Vice President Pasquale Meola, Belleville UNICO member Anna Galante, Luigi Tulpani, Belleville ALS Chairman Steve Zirpoli, Belleville UNICO member Gerard Verrico.
Photo Courtesy of Peter Caggiano
Photos courtesy of St. Peter
LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATED AT ST. PETER: A large congregation –mostly Vietnamese – gathered around the altar at St. Peter Church to celebrate the Lunar New Year, at a concelebrated Mass led by Manuel A. Cruz, auxiliary bishop for Essex County. The celebration continued at St. Peter School, where the reception included musical entertainment.
BUCS GIRLS HOOPS — From left are the Belleville High School girls basketball team’s seniors: Niyah-Myah Anabwani, Bianca Mora, Sheyla Solano-Torres, Camila Cortes Alonso, Kayla Solano-Torres, Maridel Casino and McKayla Reed. Not pictured is Ariana Suero. The Buccaneers, who had a 10-9 record through Feb. 19 were scheduled to visit Ridgewood in the North 1, Group 4 state sectional tournament first round on Feb. 27 after press time.
rings and wedding bands
Photo Courtesy of Belleville High School Athletics
Fox displays his strong love for hockey
Belleville High School senior looks back on his career, while sparking tri-op squad
Without a doubt, there are many passionate ice hockey fans and players in the area.
Tyler Fox is one of them. The Belleville High School senior is a starting defenseman on the tri-op Bayonne/Belleville/McNair high school team this winter, becoming a source of inspiration for youngsters who want to play the sport in the community.
The following is Q and A that the Belleville Post conducted with Fox:
Q: When did you first start playing ice hockey and what got you interested in the sport?
A: I started playing hockey in 2013 with a learn-to-skate program run out of Clary Anderson in Montclair. My father was really big into hockey when he was younger. He played all over the upper East coast and in Canada occasionally. He was the main reason why I got interested in the sport.
Q: How many years have you played for the Bayonne HS hockey team?
A: I've played for the Bayonne HS hockey team for three years now, starting with my sophomore year of high school.
Q: What are your favorite memories of playing for the team?
A: Some favorite memories of playing with Bayonne I could say is my sophomore year when the team took a big hit from losing a lot of seniors and we weren’t doing so well in the season, but we really held our own against a very strong and developed team in our final game where, although we lost by one, everyone played as determined as ever and as a team. I’d also say all the community events our organization does are really fun, like all three of the Christmas skates we have done have been great, because it’s the whole team just relaxing and hanging out and helping inexperienced skaters if needed.
Q: Who are your role models and influences, and why?
A: My biggest role model is the lord Jesus Christ because of many reasons. The seven heavenly virtues in of themself are lifechanging, but the lessons of the Bible are incomparable to anything ever written. I could talk about how great the lessons are and how it all makes sense all day. Other than the Lord, I don’t idolize, but look up to men of courage, bravery and genius throughout history, not only leaders of great empires, like Napoleon and Alexander the Great, but also the valiant and ferocious men of those times who had to fight those many battles and wars. Like how the only reason Rome existed for so long was their grit and willpower to win a war against an enemy much stronger than them.
Q: What is your favorite hockey team?
A: My favorite hockey team is the New York Rangers. It's a passed-down team because the Devils didn't exist when my dad was a kid. No quit in New York
Q: What are your post-graduation plans?
A: Currently, my post-graduation plan is a career in firefighting and doing a few trades.
Q: Do you have any pre-game rituals?
A: I never believed in rituals or any superstitions. I always just started thinking about what I did wrong last game and how to improve on that, before we jumped on the ice.
Q: Do you have any other hobbies or interests?
A: My other hobbies would be going to the gym, reading, learning about history, hanging out with friends, and just trying to learn new things every day.
Q: Bayonne goalie Sydney Fogu surpassed 3,000 saves in her career, which is believed to be a state record. What can you say about that accomplishment? Is it great to play with her and why?
A: Sydney Fogus's accomplishment of 3,000 saves is spectacular and a testament to her amazing skills and talent. She's a great person, on and off the ice. On ice, she is always strong-willed and determined, and has a winner mentality. Off ice, she plays her role as a captain to maximum efficiency, always giving us a rundown on our games and helping boost morale.
Q: Do you think there will be more interest in hockey in Belleville?
A: I hope so, as I have talked to a few underclassmen about them wanting to join. I do see genuine interest in it, but a lot of kids are obviously hesitant.
Q: What advice would you give to any young hockey player?
A: The advice I could give to young hockey players is to always be ready to compete, not only with other teams, but with yourself. Make sure, you're getting better every day, not just in hockey, but in your everyday life. You always want to be consistent, so you can be faster, more endured, more versatile, stronger and smarter than the day beforehand.
Notes – Bayonne/Belleville/McNair had a good run in the N.J. Interscholastic Ice Hockey League’s McMullen Cup playoffs. As the No. 3 seed, they upset No. 2 seed West Orange, 4-2, in the semifinals at Richard J. Codey Arena on Feb. 2, but fell to Hoboken, 8-0, in the final on Feb. 10 at Codey Arena. Fox has two goals and five assists on the season through Feb.19, and seven goals and 11 assists for his career.
Bayonne/Belleville/McNair, which had an 11-10 record, qualified for the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association’s South Jersey, Public Co-Op state tournament as the No. 16 seed and was scheduled to visit top-seeded Hopewell Valley/Montgomery in the first round on Monday, Feb. 24, after press time.
Photo Courtesy of Tyler Fox
Tyler Fox, a three-year letterman, is a starter on the Bayonne/Belleville/McNair high school team.
Photo Courtesy of Belleville High School Athletics SENIORS FETED — The Belleville High School wrestling team’s seniors gather as they were honored on Senior Night on Feb. 5. The boys and girls were getting ready for their respective state district and region tournaments that began on Feb. 22, after press time.
BHS boys hoops star Cook nets 1,000th point
By Joe Ragozzino Sports Editor
Senior point guard Connor Cook has joined the list of great Belleville High School boys basketball players.
Cook achieved a tremendous milestone, as he scored his 1,000th career point during the Buccaneers’ 62-48 road win over Passaic County Tech in Wayne on Thursday, Feb. 20. He became the ninth player to join the Bucs’ boys basketball 1,000-point scoring club.
In the next-to-last game of the season, Cook finished with 24 points on five 2-pointers, two 3-pointers and eight free throws.
A presentation honoring Cook was scheduled for the final game of the season on Tuesday, Feb. 25, at home against Roselle Park, after press time.
Cook was ecstatic about achieving this milestone.
“I want to thank God and my family for all supporting me every step of the way,” Cook said. “I want to thank my teammates as well. It was surreal. I always dreamed of accomplishing something like this, and with hard work, I made it happen. I am just happy that I share this moment with my friends, family and teammates on my final home game, Tuesday, Feb. 25. I am truly thankful to everyone involved.”
BHS head coach Jim Catalano also was thrilled for Cook, who worked hard, while becoming a role model for the young players on the team.”
“I want to congratulate Connor on reach-
ing the milestone of scoring 1,000 points in his varsity career,” Catalano said. “Connor had to take on numerous roles this season in order to compensate for a very young, inexperienced team that needed a full year to understand our system to gain confidence and to elevate their skills. He had to be our point guard, our leading scorer and be a major factor in our ability to rebound the basketball. All done with our opponents double-teaming him, and a couple of cases, triple-teaming him on the offensive end of the floor. I’m not quite sure too many high school student-athletes would be able to succeed, and yet through all of that, he averaged over 20 points per game and took on the role I had to give him with intensity and confidence. He is deserving of the accolades he is receiving.”
In the win over PCT, senior Justus Tschopp scored 20 points, Jerel Rodiguez had eight points, Sean Sharpe had four points, and Kahaire Floyd and Brandon Alvarez each had three points for the Bucs, who improved to 7-18 on the season.
Here is the list of 1,000-point scorers in BHS boys basketball history:
• Connor Cook
• Ted Sochaski
• Abdel Anderson
• Troy Talmadge
• Leon Puentas
• Dennis Dework
• Wayne Bubbet
• Phil Colalillo
• Lucius Millinder
Belleville’s Gonzalez leads solid Seton Hall Prep hoops
By Jeff Goldberg Correspondent
Anthony Gonzalez, a sophomore basketball player, really enjoys being at Seton Hall Prep in West Orange.
"I like being at Seton Hall Prep,” said the Belleville resident, a 6-foot-2 guard. “It is different from my original school last year, Union City High School. I like the brotherhood and the way the students treat each other. When I got here, the players really welcomed me and made me feel part of the team right away. I like the style of offense we use, which is fast, but under control. Our pressure defense makes everyone on our team work hard, while the other team struggles to make easy baskets."
The top-seeded Pirates advanced to the 78th Essex County Tournament championship game against No. 3 seed Payne Tech (Newark) on Saturday, Feb. 22, at Essex County College in Newark. The result of the game was after press time.
Following the 70-66 semifinal win over No. 4 seed St. Benedict’s Prep (Newark) on Feb. 15 at West Orange High’s Tarnoff Gymnasium, Gonzalez was averaging 12.8
points and 3.3 rebounds on the season, including making 83 % of his free-throws (53 out of 64). He also had 120 assists and 48 steals. SHP, which improved to 18-5 on the season, appeared in its 31st ECT finals appearance and sought its 20th ECT title.
First-year head coach Sterling Gibbs recently commented on Gonzalez, “Anthony has been a huge asset to our program. He’s a leader, on and off the court, and has continuously shown his maturity and winning mentality. Having a special player like Anthony gives everyone on the team confidence going into each game.
“He has a natural ability to exude confidence that spreads to others on the team, without saying much at all. There is no surprise to me regarding the great season that Anthony is having. He works extremely hard, pays close attention to detail and knows the game. When you mix his talent with his work ethic, you get a special kind of player that doesn’t come around too often. We are happy to have him at Seton Hall Prep and excited to watch the program grow with him as part of it.”
Photo Courtesy of Seton Hall Prep
Belleville resident Anthony Gonzalez has been a key contributor for West Orange-based Seton Hall Prep this season. The sophomore guard recently was averaging 12.8 points a game. The top-seeded SHP Pirates advanced to the Essex County Tournament final.
Photo Courtesy of Belleville High School Athletics Belleville senior Connor Cook, second from left, scored his 1,000th career point on Feb. 20. With him, from left, are Belleville head coach Jim Catalano, and Cook’s father and brother.
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