Belleville Post - February 2023

BELLEVILLE POST

Schools see $4.5M grant

Belleville HS launches JROTC program to motivate students

By Javon Ross Staff Writer

Belleville High School recently launched its JROTC program, much to the delight of its civic-minded students looking for an entrypoint into the military, or even just looking to stay fit and disciplined.

— See Page 2 Cavanagh

“It’s an elective class, one that the kids sign up for; no one is forced to be in JROTC,” Lt. Col. Richard Wasserman, who is retired from the U.S. Army and serving as Belleville JROTC’s unit leader, told the Belleville Post. “It is a regular curriculum that has been provided by the Army. This year we are teaching selfawareness, how to wear your uniform, things along those lines.”

The JROTC has been active for six months at the high school and has 63 students active in the program so far.

Wasserman and Belleville Middle School Principal Aida S. Cardona, the Belleville JROTC coordinator, consider this to be a great first step and anticipate that those numbers will increase as the program continues.

— See Page 8

“The students that are in now are in what is called the LET 1; next year they will be in LET 2 and we will bring in a whole new group,” Cardona told the Belleville Post. LET stands for Leadership Education and Training. “These students came in without any introductions, so I am really proud that we have come so far. Really soon we are going to incorporate after-school programs.”

The students have taken the opportunity to volunteer and help across the township as a part of the program.

— See Page 28

“On Dec. 17, we did Wreaths Across America, where the kids would place wreaths on the graves of veterans,” Wasserman said. “They read a list of Vietnam veterans who passed and one of our students rang a bell. The kids had a good time.”

Each week the students take part in drills and exercises that show them their potential should they one day join the armed forces.

“At least once a week, the students learn how to march, how to salute; the kids get a kick out of it,” Wasserman said. “There is a game called knockout: We have all the kids in a group; we give commands, and if you mess up you sit down. The winner gets gummy bears.”

The program institutes discipline, hard work and pride in the students, which is reflected in their test scores during exams, according to Belleville High School Principal Caleb Rhodes.

“Our students took the ASVAB” — Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test — “two weeks ago; our students in the program performed better than the See NEW JROTC, Page 14

Photos Courtesy of Richard Wasserman Belleville High School JROTC students participate in a Wreaths Across America event in Belleville.

Kean receives grant for program in Belleville schools

A $4.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education will fund a Kean University program designed to increase diversity among school psychologists while proactively addressing student mental health in the Belleville School District.

The Kean Department of Advanced Psychology, which offers graduate degrees in school and clinical psychology, is placing students in internships and externships to help develop the BeWell Mental Health Initiative in Belleville’s schools.

“As New Jersey’s urban research university, Kean is dedicated to addressing the needs of urban communities, including the mental health needs of children

and individuals in our public schools,” Kean President Lamont O. Repollet said. “School psychologists play a crucial role, especially now when our communities continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. This innovative partnership allows us to assist students, teachers and families in Belleville while increasing the ranks of diverse school psychologists throughout New Jersey.”

The BeWell Mental Health Initiative is funded by a five-year grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Kean assistant professor Aaron A. Gubi, director of Kean Psychological Serv-

ices, worked with Kean’s Office of Research and Sponsored Programs and applied for the grant.

He said the project fits the university’s mission of urban research, especially by recruiting diverse school psychology students. Ultimately, the goal includes placing Kean graduate students in jobs in Belleville and other high-need school districts.

“I thought our university and program fit perfectly with this grant,” Gubi said, “working both to improve a local urban school district and strengthening the pipeline of school psychology professionals in an urban setting.”

The advanced psychology department

began working with Belleville a few years ago, placing graduate students to help during the pandemic-related transition to remote learning. The new initiative expands the partnership. Kean graduate students will work with Belleville on a multitiered system of mental health supports, including activities such as schoolwide social-emotional learning, classroom sessions on bullying and other topics, and small-group “lunch bunch” discussions. Kean students will also work with Belleville staff to identify students or families who may need further services.

Silvia C. Pastor, supervisor of equity, See GRANT, Page 6

Photos Courtesy of Kean University

Above, from left, are Kean University school and clinical psychology graduate students Gabrielle Denicola, Zuri Gill and Blanca Garcia.

Clara Maass named a Best Hospital for Maternity Care

U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in hospital rankings and consumer advice, has recognized four RWJBarnabas Health facilities among the 2022-2023 Best Hospitals for Maternity Care, a list that identifies hospitals that

provide high-quality maternity care for uncomplicated pregnancies. Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville, Community Medical Center in Toms River, Monmouth Medical Center and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset were

among those designated as high performing in maternity care.

The annual evaluation is designed to assist expectant parents and their doctors in making informed decisions about where to receive maternity care. The Best Hospi-

tals for Maternity Care evaluation looks at hospital data relating only to uncomplicated pregnancies — not high-risk pregnancies — for five factors: scheduled early deliveries, cesarean section rates in lowrisk women, newborn complications, rate of exclusive breast milk feeding and option for vaginal births after C-section.

“The distinctions from U.S. News & World Report are reflective of our commitment to excellence in maternity care,” said Suzanne Spernal, vice president of women’s services at RWJBarnabas Health. “We are continually striving to provide comprehensive, equitable care for expectant mothers and families across the system, and this national recognition is a testament to our ongoing efforts to further that mission.”

U.S. News evaluated nearly 650 hospitals for its 2022-2023 Best Hospitals for Maternity Care, and fewer than half of all hospitals that participated in the survey received a high performing designation.

HAPPY BIRTH DAY! — Clara Maass Medical Center welcomes Kendrick, the hospital’s first baby of 2023, who was born at 11:33 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 1. Proud parents Sarah and Dushont are presented with a gift basket that includes a 2023 embroidered blanket and onesie from Dr. Philip Fiore, an ophthalmologist from Nutley, and his wife, and gifts from the Clara Maass Auxiliary’s annual baby shower. Giving the family these gifts are Clara Maass personnel Tania Manago, Cynthia McMahon, Doreen Prayt and Chinwendu ‘ChiChi’ Emenyeonu.

“When expectant parents are considering their options for welcoming a baby to the world, the Best Hospitals for Maternity Care is designed to help them identify hospitals that excel in delivering babies for uncomplicated pregnancies,” said Ben Harder, chief of health analysis and managing editor at U.S. News. “A hospital that has earned a high performing designation may be a good option for parents, in consultation with their medical provider, to consider.”

Photo Courtesy of Clara Maass Medical Center

Grant will allow mental health program to continue

(Continued from Page 2) diversity and inclusion in the Belleville schools, said that, as a Latina, she saw the need to increase the availability of mental health providers from different cultures.

“It was really important not just to me, but to my community. We needed to do better and have more mental health clinicians who understand our families’ backgrounds,” she said. “This also creates opportunities for young mental health practitioners.”

Kean associate professor Jennifer Block-Lerner, director of the Department of Advanced Studies in Psychology, said the grant is “a fantastic reflection of the intersection of science and practice, as well as the value of university/community partnerships.”

The graduate students working in Belleville now, who will continue through the grant, see their work making a difference.

Blanca Garcia is in her second year in the combined school and clinical psychology doctoral program. She commutes from Queens twice a week to work with elementary and middle school children in Belleville’s Diversity, Health and Wellness drop-in center. She helps children with issues such as transitioning to a new grade or to the district, bullying, and anger and crisis management. The daughter of Salvadoran immigrants, Garcia is fluent in Spanish.

“I have students who were able to express themselves in Spanish, and I saw how helpful it was for them,” she

said. “As a minority student, I know what it is like to go to a school without representation; (representation) matters and makes a difference.”

Gabrielle Denicola, of Oradell, a fourth-year doctoral student at Kean, counsels Belleville High School students.

“I think this mental health support greatly helps our students by providing a safe space for kids,” she said. “Students know they can speak to a counselor about any concern and feel empowered to express themselves in a supportive, inclusive environment.”

The grant team also includes, from the Kean Department of Advanced Studies in Psychology, professor Adrienne Garro, assistant professor Aditi Vijay and associate professor Keri Giordano.

Belleville holds annual Winter Festival, tree lighting

Like a scene ripped from a holiday classic, Deputy Mayor Thomas Graziano passed out bags of a holiday favorite, chestnuts roasted over an open fire, at Belleville’s annual Winter Festival and Christmas Tree Lighting Spectacular on Dec. 10. An estimated 3,000 people joined to sing carols, play games, make crafts and enjoy hot chocolate, according to a Belleville press release.

The annual event was bigger, better and brighter than ever. The event is free, with support through the municipality, board of education, Michael A. Melham Civic Association and other community sponsors.

None other than Santa Claus, taking a break from taking wish lists from boys and girls of all ages, pushed the plunger to light the 60-foot-high Christmas tree at Belleville High School.

The lights twinkled as children played in the bouncy house area and families enjoyed horse-drawn carriage rides up and down Passaic Avenue. Others were checking out the petting zoo. Several organizations, community groups and municipal agencies also participated in the festival, sharing information with residents and seeking volunteers.

The school district sold Christmas tree ornaments, garden flags and potholders created by the students in the Belleville Life Skills Program. The Belleville Police Department passed out coffee, cookies and hot dogs, while the Belleville Fire Department gave away candy canes and small holiday-themed gifts.

“You can feel the warmth of the community here tonight,” said Mayor Michael Melham, who invited festivalgoers to warm up around two fire pits that his association assembled and maintained throughout the night. “This night is about making spirits bright. Thanks to our collaboration with the Belleville School District, this event fills hearts with the holiday spirit.”

Council members Naomy DePeña and Vincent A. Cozzarelli also participated in the festival, greeting residents and spreading holiday cheer. Meanwhile, Graziano was focused on handing out the roasted chestnuts, a popular staple of the event. The deputy mayor soaked 75 pounds of chestnuts for three hours before the event,

then sliced them all open before putting them on the grill to roast until they were soft and emitted a sweet, smoky scent.

Handing them out to festivalgoers was a family affair. The deputy mayor’s sister and brother-in-law, Judy and Michael Catena, helped out. So did a longtime family friend, Jeanne DiPasquale Lombardi.

“This is what it’s all about,” Graziano said. “Belleville is about family, and tonight we are one big, happy family.”

Above, one of the most popular attractions at the event is the horse-drawn carriage rides. At right, Deputy Mayor Thomas Graziano, Jeanne DiPasquale Lombardi and Mayor Michael Melham attend the event.

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Photos Courtesy of Belleville Township Above, Santa Claus listens carefully as children of all ages give detailed lists of what presents they hope to find under the tree. Below, a guest nuzzles a duck at the petting zoo, a new addition to this annual event.

Belleville bids emotional farewell to longtime clerk

The township of Belleville is bidding a heartfelt goodbye to Kelly Cavanagh, who is retiring on Feb. 1, after dutifully serving 20 years as municipal clerk.

A proclamation read at the Jan. 3 township council meeting lauded her strong sense of civic pride.

“On behalf of the mayor and township council, we want to express our sincere appreciation to Kelly for her loyalty, outstanding career and unwavering dedication and service to the township of Belleville,” the proclamation read.

Cavanagh will be succeeded by Alberto

Cabrera, who served as the clerk for the town of Guttenberg in Hudson County for 14 years. Cabrera, who is bilingual, is already in Belleville, working with Cavanagh on a seamless transition.

Cavanagh has served the residents of Belleville in myriad ways over the past 31 years, including the past 20 as municipal clerk. Whether serving as secretary of the township council, serving as custodian of records, administering local elections, or issuing licenses and permits, she did it all with grace, integrity and an ingrained sense of duty.

The proclamation also acknowledged Cavanagh’s husband, Richard, and their son, John Joseph.

“Kelly will surely be missed, as she’s been part of the fabric of our community for many years — a community she has served well,” Mayor Michael Melham said.

“As a young, 25-year-old councilman, she was my clerk, and now, as mayor, she’s been with me for the past five years. I know she has many good years ahead of her as she watches her son play football and prepares to travel. I sincerely wish her and her family well.”

Photos Courtesy of Belleville Township Above, longtime municipal clerk Kelly Cavanagh is recognized by Mayor Michael Melham and members of the township council. At right, Melham thanks Cavanagh for her many years of service.

Taxpayers have until Feb. 28 to file

The state has extended the application deadline and is expanding eligibility for the new ANCHOR property tax relief program. The state extended the filing deadline to Feb. 28, from Dec. 30.

To apply, visit the Division of Taxation’s website at nj.gov/treasury/taxation/anchor/. The state also has an ANCHOR hotline at 888-238-1233.

“For Belleville residents, some of whom live on a fixed income, affordability remains a top concern,” Belleville Mayor Michael Melham said. “Extending the deadline gives residents a greater ability to take advantage of a program that will help make their lives just a little more affordable.”

The ANCHOR program will provide up to $1,500 to homeowners with 2019 gross incomes up to $150,000, and up to $1,000 for those with gross incomes of between $150,000 and $250,000 in that year. ANCHOR is also an important program for tenants, who can receive $450 if their gross income was $150,000 or less in 2019.

The ANCHOR program expands on and replaces the Homestead Rebate Program. To be eligible for this year’s benefit, homeowners and renters must have occupied their primary residence on Oct. 1, 2019, and file or be exempt from New Jersey income taxes.

Community Care Kitchen offers support to residents

The Community Care Kitchen has reopened by serving hot, takeout meals twice per month at Vincent United Methodist Church, 100 Vincent Place in Nutley, on the third and last Saturday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Prepared and shared currently by people from Vincent Church and Grace Episcopal Church, the meal might be chicken, beef or pasta with sides and vegetables. Everyone is welcome to come by the Community Care Kitchen and pick up a meal to-go, including families and seniors. In these tough times, there is a growing need and the churches are partnering with others in the community to make a difference. Anyone who would like to make a contribution can visit vincentumc.org/ for more information.

The average New Jersey property tax bill was approximately $9,300 in 2021. ANCHOR rebates could offset more than 16 percent of the average property tax bill in New Jersey for some homeowners. For a middle-class family receiving $1,500 in

direct relief, the average bill will effectively become $7,800, a property tax level New Jersey has not seen since 2012.

To receive payment — expected to arrive in late spring — eligible residents need to apply by the state’s Feb. 28 deadline. Payments will be issued in the form of check or direct deposit. The money is not subject to federal or state income tax.

Eligible homeowners can apply online, by phone or via paper application, which can be downloaded online and returned by mail. Tenants can apply online or download the application from the state Division on Taxation website and return it via mail.

The ANCHOR program expands on and replaces the Homestead Rebate Program.

DCA report finds institutional homeownership rising in NJ

On Dec. 1, the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs issued the report “Buying New Jersey: The Rise in Institutional Ownership of Residential Properties,” which examines recent trends in institutional homeownership and its impact on the ability of households to buy a home. The report was researched and written by DCA’s Office of Policy and External Affairs and finds that an increasing share of the state’s housing stock is shifting to institutional ownership.

The report includes a table of the number of institutionally owned residential properties by municipality organized alphabetically and a table of institutionally owned residential properties ranked by municipality. The report may be read at tinyurl.com/362rh9x6.

“This report shows the challenges that exist for homebuyers, particularly those with lower incomes, to purchase a home in their communities when they’re competing against corporations and business entities for housing,” said Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver, who serves as DCA commissioner. “While institutional homeownership is just one of several factors contributing to the very difficult housing market for regular homebuyers, it is an important factor. Therefore, we hope the report can be a starting point that leads all levels of government in New Jersey to find ways to make sure homeownership remains accessible to low- and moderate-income residents.”

In the report, institutional homeownership is defined as ownership by any entity that does not constitute a sin-

gle household. The report studies one- to four-family housing stock and excludes multifamily properties with five or more units. In the last decade, 544 municipalities, or 96.4 percent, have seen increases in the share of institutional homeownership, which suggests it is a statewide trend that is not abating.

While the overwhelming majority of municipalities are experiencing a rise in institutional homeownership, the report finds the areas most targeted by institutional buyers tend to be lower income, more distressed and have a resident population consisting mostly of renters. The report states that this “may reflect a propensity to acquire property for speculation, investment purposes or to rent out.”

Some recommendations to possibly address the institutional homeownership trend are offered in the report. One is to find ways to encourage municipalities to convey municipally owned, vacant and abandoned residential and mixed-use properties to community nonprofit organizations and residents looking to revitalize neighborhoods. Another is to increase scoring for New Jersey Affordable Housing Trust Fund applications that involve developing owner-occupied affordable housing in communities with a high rate of institutional homeownership.

The report states that, in 2020, institutionally owned residential properties in New Jersey were at 5.9 percent. Essex County also scored at 5.9 percent. However, while the increase in institutionally owned residential properties from 2012 through 2020 was 2.5 percent in New Jer-

sey, it was 2.7 percent in Essex County.

According to 2020 figures in the report, in Belleville, 4 percent of residential properties were institutionally owned, with an increase from 2012 to 2020 of 2.6 percent; in Bloomfield, it was 7.3 percent, with an increase of 2.1 percent; in Caldwell, it was 4.3 percent, with an increase of 1.9 percent; in Cedar Grove, it was 2.6 percent, with an increase of 0.8 percent; in East Orange, it was 15.1 percent, with an increase of 8.4 percent; in Essex Fells, it was 3.9 percent, with a decrease of 1.4 percent; in Fairfield, it was 2.8 percent, with an increase of 1.2 percent; in Glen Ridge, it was 1.9 percent, with an increase of 0.3 percent; in Irvington, it was 16.1 percent, with an increase of 10.7 percent; in Livingston, it was 3.5 percent, with an increase of 1.3 percent; in Maplewood, it was 2.6 percent, with an increase of 1.4 percent; in Millburn, it was 4 percent, with an increase of 0.8 percent; in Montclair, it was 4.9 percent, with an increase of 1.8 percent; in Newark, it was 17 percent, with an increase of 9.1 percent; in North Caldwell, it was 3.6 percent, with an increase of 1.8 percent; in Nutley, it was 2.6 percent, with an increase of 0.9 percent; in Orange, it was 16.6 percent, with an increase of 8.8 percent; in Roseland, it was 2.7 percent, with an increase of 0.7 percent; in South Orange, it was 4 percent, with an increase of 2.7 percent; in Verona, it was 3.5 percent, with an increase of 1.2 percent; in West Caldwell, it was 2.2 percent, with an increase of 0.6 percent; and, in West Orange, it was 4.5 percent, with an increase of 1.7 percent.

SCHOOLS SCHOOLS CAMPS CAMPS &

Post 105 donates roomful of toys, clothing to those in need

After a month of collecting toys and clothing from the Belleville community, the American Legion Post 105 family distributed a roomful of items days before Christmas to anyone who needed a little holiday help. After a day of people dropping by the post to collect for themselves or others, what remained from the collection was donated to St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church in Belleville for distribution to its shelter programs.

Spearheaded by members of the American Legion Auxiliary interest group at Post 105, which is in the process of seeking a national charter, the collection began in late November and lasted all the way through the publicized pickup day, Dec. 23. Together with the Post Legionnaires and the Sons of the American

Legion Squadron, the toy and coat drive was widely promoted to benefit anyone in need, regardless of their relationship to veterans or what town they live in.

“If you see pictures of this, you will understand that the Sons of the Legion, the Legion and the Auxiliary helped some of our brightest people today — our children,” Auxiliary President MaryAnn Slaughter said. “It makes your heart warm when you know you are doing something for people without asking for anything. We did this today to make people happy.”

Throughout December, members and friends of the post, as well as friends and strangers from throughout the community, donated new and lightly used coats, hats, gloves, scarves, mittens and sweaters, as well as enough new toys to fill

IN MEMORIAM

• BENNETT – Maureen A., of Belleville, formerly of Jersey City and Nutley; Dec. 15. Public relations coordinator, Summit Medical Group. Wife, mother, sister, 62.

• GABRIELE – Victoria, of Nutley; Dec. 3. Wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, 70.

• KENSCHAFT – Patricia Clark, of Montclair, formerly of Nutley; Nov. 20. Mathematics professor, author, gardener, widow, mother, grandmother, 82.

• KIRWIN – Bettyann, of Belleville; Dec. 30. Retired secretary for Essex Catholic high school in Newark. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 94.

• KLEIN – Miriam Bernstein, of Ridgewood, formerly of Rutherford, Nutley and Bloomfield; Jan. 3. Teacher, bus driver, wife, mother, grandmother, 87.

• LACORTE – Lorraine, of Pompton Plains, formerly of Nutley; Dec. 31. Bookkeeper. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, 93.

• MAHER – Thomas Patrick, formerly of Nutley; Dec. 19. Was 66.

• MORIARTY – Esther, of Nutley, formerly of Montclair; Nov. 26. Sister, aunt, 72.

• ROOS – Dirkje, of Belleville; Nov. 16. U.S. Army veteran. Was 88.

• WENGRIN – Anne Rose, of Belleville; Dec. 5. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 94.

• WHITE – Marie, of Neptune Township, formerly of Belleville; Dec. 7. Former English teacher. Wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, 74.

• ZOLLO – Nancy E. Reilly, of Brooklyn, N.Y., formerly of Belleville and Jersey City; Dec. 1. Widow, mother, sister, aunt, 72.

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

tables and tables. The post and the SAL donated a few hundred dollars each to purchase items as well, filling up the entire hall. Members put together stockings for the children, plus gift bags that included things every child will need for the cold weather.

“I was floored by how much we had,” SAL Adjutant Rusty Myers said.

The majority of items collected were for children younger than 10.

“This was amazing. We know how to do this better for next year, and we’re going to do this next year,” ALA charter member Erica Portee said.

After it got dark and the doors were closed on the post’s Dec. 23 distribution day, members of the post family loaded two pickup trucks with what remained and took it to St. Peter’s, which runs numerous outreach programs, both for the homeless and at local hospital children’s wards.

“We’re very appreciative of the Legion’s generosity during this Christmas season, and we thank you for your kindness,” said Ed Nejman, a volunteer who accepted the donation that night. “I’ve never seen an outpouring of generosity like this.”

This event was on the heels of the post’s donation in November of 23 baskets of food for families who needed a Thanksgiv-

ing dinner, with help from the Belleville School District and businesses in town.

“We can’t describe how great this town is when we do things like this,” SAL Cmdr. Steve Sangemino, who helped organize the event, said.

Photos Courtesy of Rusty Myers

Above, from left, are SAL 105 Cmdr. Steve Sangemino, ALA’s Erica Portee and MaryAnn Slaughter, Post Cmdr. Joe Cobianchi, and pup Milo. Below, Ed Hall helps drop off toys at St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church.

10671

Celebrating Boy Scout Week

February 5-11, 2023

SCOUT LAW

A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.

Hundreds celebrate Three Kings Day in Belleville

The sound of children’s delight was heard over and over again during a Three Kings Day drive-through event at Belleville High School on Jan. 6. The celebration, presented by Mayor Michael Melham and the township council, has quickly become one of the town’s most popular, festive events.

For more than two hours, some 750 cars carrying children of all ages made their way down Passaic Avenue and onto Buccaneer Way. They were greeted by bright lights illuminating the sky, holiday music, glistening floats, dancers dressed as snow angels, three hay-chomping camels, a giant star hung from a fire truck ladder and, of course, the Three Kings.

In keeping with the tradition of the holiday, which has long been celebrated in Spain as well as many Central and South American countries, each child received a gift. Three Kings Day, also called Epiphany, comes at the end of the 12 days

of Christmas and commemorates the day that the three wise men first saw baby Jesus and brought him gifts.

“It’s amazing how popular this event has become in Belleville,” Melham said. “Between this event and the Winter Festival and Christmas tree-lighting event, Belleville shows that we are dedicated to making spirits bright and celebrating our rich diversity.”

The community event was a combined effort, from the people who donated the toys to the volunteers who spent many hours wrapping them. Plus, members of the township’s police and fire departments helped make it a festive night, ensuring the camels weren’t too feisty.

The Three Kings Day event was supported by Belleville Policemen’s Benevolent Association Local 28, the Mayor Michael Melham Civic Association and the Belleville Republican Committee.

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Photos Courtesy of Belleville Township

Approximately 750 cars full of children of all ages took part in Belleville’s annual drive-through event celebrating Three Kings Day.

Some of the biggest oohs and aahs during Belleville’s annual Three Kings Day event were reserved for the camels.

New JROTC program offers opportunities at BHS

(Continued from Page 1) students who are not in the program,” Rhodes told the Belleville Post. “That screams motivation; they have something that they are working towards. They are working with Lt. Col. Wasserman. They realize that this is important and work towards it. This just shows how a program like this can motivate students.”

The JROTC program was a cadet corps program until Cardona completed the application process to transform the program at the high school.

“We just started last year. We were formerly the NDCC, which means the National Defense Cadet Corps,” Cardona said. “It was funded by the school district. We got approved on Feb. 1 last year and are now funded by the military. We had to be inspected and meet certain criteria, such as space and personnel.”

The school is also looking to expand the program for travel and competitions with other schools as a part of a districtwide JROTC program.

“We have competitive teams, drill ceremonies, color guards and a lot of marching,” Wasserman said. “There is also testing for

leadership and academics, competing with high schools all across the country and Germany. If you win your division, they have a national championship in Washington, D.C., towards the end of June.”

While some students in the JROTC may choose to join the armed services or attend a military academy, most do not go down that route.

“The purpose of the JROTC is not to have kids join the military. Some do, but the majority do not for various reasons,” Wasserman said. “They can do things in high school that they will never do anywhere else.”

Rhodes had wanted to implement a JROTC program at the high school since he first arrived six years ago and is pleased with the recent progress.

“Dr. Cardona did a great job putting everything together,” Rhodes said. “This program teaches students personal responsibility, giving back to the community and personal motivation. It builds our kids up in ways that they wouldn’t otherwise be able to. It is extremely important and lends itself to other areas of being successful, both in college and in life.”

Many former Belleville students had expressed interest in a JROTC program prior to its official launch at the school.

“The interest has always been there with some of our kids, even when I was a vice principal here,” Cardona said. “Some of the students would talk about it and engage with me because I was also in the military; they felt that connection. Some of the kids that graduated wished that we had a program that existed prior to them leaving.”

Students involved in the JROTC who

aspire to attend a military academy or any branch of the armed forces often benefit from speaking to members of the military, according to Wasserman.

“I had a Naval Academy representative here talking to the kids before Christmas break,” Wasserman said. “It was a female, which got the students’ attention; she talked about all the things that she experienced.”

The students in the program also have the chance to qualify for free college if they apply to any of the military academies, which Wasserman reminds students are top colleges.

“If you join the state National Guard, you can get in-state tuition covered,” Wasserman said. “You get a great education and, with a little commitment, you save a lot of money.”

Students in the JROTC also have the advantage of preparing for life beyond high school, not just in terms of college, but in terms of the job market as well.

“Anything that you can think of in the civilian world, you can find it in the military,” Wasserman said. “And through the JROTC and the military, you get trained for free, and paid too.”

Photo Courtesy of Richard Wasserman

A Belleville High School JROTC student lays a wreath on a veteran’s grave.

DEVILS PROVE TO BE ANGELS IN RED — New Jersey Devils players and alumni visited patients and staff at all RWJBarnabas Health hospitals on Thursday, Dec. 8. Above left, New Jersey Devils Kevin Bahl, Andreas Johnsson, Vitek Vanecek and Jesper Bratt visit with Devils fan Joseph Iannini, a patient from Nutley, and nurse Brianna DeLucrezia, at the

Continuum of Care and Clinical Services Officer Dr. Frank Mazzarella.

Infusion Center at Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville. Above right, from left, are CMMC Chief Medical Officer Frank Dos Santos, Johnsson, Vanecek, CMMC President and CEO Mary Ellen Clyne, Bratt, Bahl, and CMMC Chief

Photos Courtesy of RWJBarnabas Health

National Guard gives promotion to Cofone

Maj. Gen. Ray Shields, the adjutant general for the state of New York, announced the recent promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership. Guiseppi Cofone, of Belleville, who is assigned to the Company A 152nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, received a promotion in fall 2022 to the rank of private.

Army National Guard promotions are based on overall performance, attitude, leadership ability and development potential. These promotions additionally recognize the best qualified soldiers, and attract and retain the highest caliber citizen soldiers for a career in the N.Y. Army National Guard.

Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr., left, recites the oath of office as he is sworn into his sixth term as executive by New Jersey and Essex County Democratic Committee Chairperson LeRoy Jones, right, on Tuesday, Jan. 3. Holding the Bible are Gov. Phil Murphy, second from left, and DiVincenzo’s son, Joseph.

“This is my sixth term, but it still feels like my first term,” DiVincenzo said. “I love coming to work. Every morning I wake up and think about what we can do to continue moving Essex County forward.”

Walk in Yanticaw Park

The Nutley Singles Walking Group hosts a free 4-mile walk for area residents ages 55 to 65 each Thursday at 6 p.m. The group meets at Yanticaw Park in Nutley, by the Centre Street entrance. Participants must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and must show proof.

For additional information, call 201-280-8254.

Photo Courtesy of Glen Frieson

Wasko mentors first-years

Alexandra Wasko, of Nutley, is one of 60 talented students selected as a Lebanon Valley College first-year mentor to guide first-year and transfer students through their early weeks at the school, located in Annville, Pa. Wasko, a graduate of Nutley High School, is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in neuroscience.

Starting with orientation weekend in August, first-year mentors are responsible for assisting new students in succeeding personally, socially and academically through connections to the college and their peers.

New and transfer students are assigned to a small group of students who likely share the same major. Every group is led by a first-year mentor, an upperclass student who has displayed leadership ability and a willingness to assist new students during their first year of college. First-year mentors serve as positive role models and acquaint all new students with the school’s structure, services and culture.

Mixon earns degree

Aaron Mixon, of Nutley, graduated from Troy University, located in Troy, Ala., with a master’s degree.

Greig becomes costumer

The Interactive Theater course at Clark University, located in Worcester, Mass.,

has worked this past semester to create the show “Waiting for Obols,” based on an original script written by professor Terrasa Ulm. The show depicts an in-between space where people from all universes and time periods seek coins to buy passage across a cosmic sea. The show was performed Dec. 15.

Nutley resident Ed Greig, a senior in the Becker School of Design & Technology, designed the costume for the character of Potone, creating her “ethereal cloaked” look.

“All my studies have been exclusively computer based, so it feels awkward to have a needle and a thread in my hands, but that’s the beauty of this class,” Greig said.

Patel is a leader

New York Institute of Technology, in Old Westbury, N.Y., recently recognized the students who serve as executive board members for the university’s many clubs and student organizations, including Vidhee Jayeshkumar Patel, of Nutley. Patel serves as senator for NYIT Ventures.

Infermo initiated

Nicole Infermo, of Belleville, was recently initiated into the Rider University Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa, the national leadership honor society. The society welcomed 235 new initiates from 11 universities in October.

Students initiated into the society must be sophomores, juniors, seniors or graduate/professional students in the top 35

percent of their class, demonstrate leadership experience, and embrace the ODK ideals. Fewer than 5 percent of students on a campus are invited to join each year.

DeAngelo on honor roll

Emily DeAngelo, of Nutley, a studentathlete at Muhlenberg College, located in Allentown, Pa., was named to the Centennial Conference Academic Honor Roll for the fall 2022 season.

To be named to the academic honor roll, a student-athlete must be a sophomore or higher in class standing and carry a grade-point average of at least 3.4.

Perfect 4.0 for Kraft

Jensen Kraft, of Nutley, was named to the president’s list at Davis & Elkins College, located in Elkins, W.Va., for the fall 2022 semester.

The president's list includes all fulltime students with a grade-point average of 4.0 for the semester.

Degree for Callier

Khalil Callier, of Belleville, graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University, located in Delaware, Ohio, in December. Callier earned a Bachelor of Arts in geology.

Matrona gets top grades

John Matrona, of Nutley, has been named a dean’s scholar at Piedmont University, located in Demorest, Ga., for the fall 2022 semester.

Students earning the dean’s scholar designation finished the semester with a grade-point average of 4.0.

Acclaim at Colgate

Nutley residents John Halligan and Grace LaBruno were named to the dean’s list with distinction at Colgate University, located in Hamilton, N.Y., for the fall 2022 semester. Halligan is a graduate of Saint Peter’s Preparatory and LaBruno is a graduate of Academy of the Holy Angels. Students who receive a term gradepoint average of 3.6 or better while completing at least three courses for a conventional letter grade earn this honor.

Dean’s honors at LVC

Alexandra Wasko, of Nutley, was named to the dean’s list at Lebanon Valley College, located in Annville, Pa., for the fall 2022 semester. Wasko, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in neuroscience, is a graduate of Nutley High School.

Dean’s list students must maintain a grade-point average of at least 3.4 out of 4.0.

Poplawski takes honors

Paul Kazimier Poplawski, of Nutley, was named to the dean’s list at Kutztown University, located in Kutztown, Pa., for the fall 2022 semester.

To be eligible for the dean’s list, an undergraduate student must be registered for at least 12 credits and have a minimum grade-point average of 3.6.

Nicosia excels

Cherylann Nicosia, of Belleville, has been named to the dean’s list for academic excellence at Springfield College, located in Springfield, Mass., for the fall 2022 semester. Nicosia has a primary major of psychology.

To be named to the dean’s list, a student must complete a minimum of 12 credit hours and earn a grade-point average of at least 3.5 for the term.

Mackle takes honors

Meghan Mackle, of Belleville, has been named to the dean’s list at Alvernia University, located in Reading, Pa., for the fall 2022 semester. Mackle is currently enrolled as an occupational therapy major minoring in psychology.

To be eligible for the dean’s list, students must carry a semester grade-point average of 3.5 or better and take a minimum of 12 credits.

Morales shines

Kalina Morales, of Belleville, earned dean’s list honors at Mount St. Mary’s University, located in Emmitsburg, Md., for the fall 2022 semester.

Students who maintain a grade-point average of 3.4 or better are eligible for this honor.

Lehigh scholars

Areesha Ahmed, of Nutley, and Sofia Ruiz, of Belleville, were both named to

the dean’s list at Lehigh University, located in Bethlehem, Pa., for the fall 2022 semester.

Dean’s list status is awarded to students who earned a scholastic average of 3.6 or better while carrying at least 12 hours of regularly graded courses.

Honors at SNHU

Daniel Render, of Nutley, has been named to the president’s list at Southern New Hampshire University, located in Manchester, N.H., for the fall 2022 term. Sabrina Smith, of Belleville, was named to the dean’s list.

To be named to the president’s list, a student must earn a grade-point average of 3.7 or better; to be named to the dean’s list, a student must earn a GPA of 3.5 or better.

Gaynor on dean’s list

Ethan Gaynor, of Nutley, was named to the dean’s list at Marquette University, located in Milwaukee, Wisc., for the fall 2022 semester. Gaynor is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in exercise physiology.

To attain this honor, a student must complete 12 credits for the semester and earn a grade-point average of 3.5 or better.

Merit for Merritt

Alexis Merritt, of Nutley, was named to the dean’s list at York College of Pennsylvania, located in York, Pa., for the fall 2022 semester. A member of the

Class of 2024, Merritt is a professional writing major.

To be eligible for this honor, a student

must be registered for at least 12 academic credit hours and earn a semester gradepoint average of 3.5 or better.

Belleville Post 105 holds flag retirement ceremony

“Let these faded flags of our country be retired and destroyed with respectful and honorable rites and their places be taken by bright new flags of the same size and kind,” read American Legion Post 105 Cmdr. Joseph J. Cobianchi as part of a ceremony for the disposal of unserviceable flags, held Sunday, Nov. 20, in the parking lot of Post 105 at 621 Washington Ave. in Belleville.

Organized by Post 105 Legionnaires and members of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105, between 3,000 and 4,000 flags were retired in the scripted ceremony. This year, Scouts from Cub Scout Pack 141 and Girl Scouts from Troops 20122 and 20462 were invited to participate.

The Cub Scouts attended the ceremony to complete their “Wolf Adventure” learning about Americanism, called the “Council Fire (Duty to Country)” badge.

“It was very emotional to share this experience with some of the young Pack members and to help them understand the importance of the ceremony,” Pack 141 den leader Meghan Myers said. “At first they didn’t understand why we burn the flags, so it was very important to help them understand why we must retire old flags and how to do so in a proper, respectful manner.”

“It was our privilege to observe this in a dignified, proud way,” attendee Tricia Durr said.

As stated in the United States Flag Code, “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.” The American Legion is one of the patriotic organizations that is allowed to perform this ceremony.

“It really makes you appreciate all we have in this country,” said Jackie Elsmore, who recently joined the American Legion Auxiliary.

Some of the flags that were retired were shredded and tattered, coming from homes, public buildings and businesses from around the area. Post 105 has a mail-

A man salutes as American flags are retired at a ceremony in Belleville. • Post 105 Cmdr. Joseph J. Cobianchi salutes. • Post 105 First Vice Cmdr. Walter LaBar salutes. • SAL First Vice President James Elsmore disposes of a flag. • Post 105 members, SALs and Scouts attend the ceremony. • Legionnaire Ed Hall displays a flag dedicated to the firefighters who died as a result of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.

box outside its building where people can drop their old flags to be destroyed. Each year, more than 7,000 flags are dropped off at the post to be retired; many of these come from area cemeteries, having been placed on the graves of veterans for Memorial Day.

Other patriotic items are also always found in the flag dropoff box. This year, members found a VFW uniform cap from a World War II veteran who served in the Pacific and participated in the liberation of the Philippines in 1945, as well as a flag dedicated to the firefighters who were lost at the World Trade Center following the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, specifically mentioning the 343 firefighters who died responding that day. Handwritten on that flag in black ink is part of the firefighter’s prayer: “Wherever flames may rage, give me the strength to save some life.” Both the cap and the flag will be saved and preserved, to be put up somewhere in the post hall.

“The flag retirement ceremony is very solemn, to be sure. But finding that hat and reading the prayer on that flag really drives home the meaning of what the

American flag stands for,” SAL 105 Adjutant Rusty Myers said. “At the moment Ed Hall found that flag, everyone stopped, because that made the event that much more human. We all got very emotional when we read the prayer and saw the hat, as both speak to the incredible sacrifice those who have served make.”

Before they left for the day, the Cub Scouts all joined together to shout “God bless America!”

“I was very happy that we had all of the Cub, Girl and Boy Scouts today,” Cobianchi said. “It is an honor to do this, and it is something that is very close to my heart, to retire these flags which have been over our veterans’ graves.”

The ceremony took five hours, with Legionnaires and SALs standing guard over the fire until it was completely out, as per the American Legion retirement ceremony protocols.

Legionnaire Ed Hall, who is also an SAL in honor of his father’s service, said the ceremony was touching “because so many people have fought so hard to give us the freedom we have. These flags represent all of that.”

Photos Courtesy of Rusty Myers Clockwise from above left:

Richardson, Pomares reelected ECBCC president, VP

On Wednesday, Jan. 4, District 2 Commissioner Wayne L. Richardson, of Newark, and District 5 Commissioner Carlos M. Pomares, of Bloomfield, were unanimously reelected president and vice president, respectively, of the Essex County Board of County Commissioners during the board’s 2023 reorganization meeting. All members of the board were in attendance as Richardson and Pomares were sworn in by New Jersey Superior Court Judge James R. Paganelli.

Richardson, who will serve as president for the third consecutive year, is also pres-

ident of Laborers Local 55. In addition, he is a lead organizer for the Laborers Eastern Region Organizing Fund and chairs the Newark Central Planning Board.

Upon being sworn in, Richardson thanked his colleagues on the board for having confidence in his leadership.

“I appreciate your vote of confidence and look forward to your support as we continue to work together to move this county forward. So, thank you very much,” Richardson said.

Pomares, who became the first Latino to be elected to a leadership role on the

ECBCC, will serve his third consecutive year as vice president of the board. He previously served as councilman at large in Bloomfield and currently serves as the executive director of the Cuban Artists Fund. He is also a history and political science lecturer at Hudson County Community College.

Pomares congratulated Richardson and wished him well in his third year as president, while also thanking the board and the leadership of the county administration for their efforts. He recounted the fact that his father was a political prisoner in Cuba for having an opinion.

“I will never forget how impactful and important it is that we serve,” he said, quoting Gov. Phil Murphy, who said, “Essex is the county to envy” because of the groundwork that has been laid for decades.

Prior to the swearing-in, congratulatory remarks were offered by Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. and New Jersey Democratic State Committee Chairperson LeRoy J. Jones Jr., who both spoke to the intrinsic worth of good governance, positive fiscal direction and service demonstrated by the board under the leadership of Richardson and Pomares.

Above left, Essex County Commissioner President Wayne L. Richardson, center, is sworn in by New Jersey Superior Court Judge James R. Paganelli, left, while his wife, Antoinette Baskerville Richardson, right,

holds the Bible. Above right, Commissioner Vice President Carlos M. Pomares, center, is sworn in by Paganelli, left, while legislative aide Luis Felix, right, holds the Bible.

Photos Courtesy of Lloyd Holmes

SPOTLIGHT

Belleville officials break ground on Kelsey luxury apartment complex

Mayor Michael Melham and other Belleville officials dug their ceremonial shovels into the ground on Thursday, Dec. 8, marking the beginning of construction of a six-story luxury apartment building that will be erected at the site of a shuttered foam factory.

Deputy Mayor Thomas Graziano and Councilman Vincent A. Cozzarelli also attended the ceremony for The Kelsey, which will feature 114 apartments and approximately 1,200 feet of ground-floor retail space. Construction at 740-748 Washington Ave. is expected to be completed in 2024.

The Kelsey is part of Newark-based Sound Development LLC’s Ethos brand, which already includes a 56-unit apartment complex on Franklin Avenue in Belleville.

The building’s name pays homage to the site’s history as an assembly plant for the Kelsey Motor Co. beginning in 1920. The car company went bankrupt in 1924,

after only 601 Kelseys were built.

“The lobby of our building is going to incorporate an industrial look as a nod to the site’s storied history,” Sound Development’s Michael Pacillo said. “We are hoping to locate Kelsey Motor Co. memorabilia, such as photos, and display them prominently in the lobby.”

More recently, the site was home to Foam Rubber Fabricators.

The Kelsey will feature 70 one-bedroom units, 44 studio apartments and approximately 130 parking spaces. It will also feature a rooftop pool, a gym and an expansive outdoor terrace.

“We are very excited to see The Kelsey starting to take shape on Washington Avenue,” Melham said. “My administration has made quality redevelopment a priority. We will continue to seek out suitable development opportunities for Belleville that take advantage of our terrific location, mass transit and suburban feel.”

Suburban Essex Chamber offers scholarship awards

The Suburban Essex Chamber of Commerce Foundation plans to award three 2023 scholarship awards. Recipients must be graduating seniors and reside in one of the towns supported by the SECC: Bloomfield, Belleville and Glen Ridge.

The criteria for the scholarships are: financial need; fall attendance at a college, university or vocational school; intention to pursue a career that is business oriented; and extracurricular/community activities. The scholarship committee will select one recipient from each town.

Applications are available at each high school’s guidance counselor office; online at suburbanessexchamber.com; or by contacting Cecelia Polizzi or Donna Pietroiacovo at 973-748-2000. Applications must be received by April 28.

Photo Courtesy of Belleville Township Celebrating The Kelsey’s groundbreaking are, from left, an unidentified woman, Sound Development’s Michael Pacillo, Mayor Michael Melham, Councilman Vincent A. Cozzarelli and Deputy Mayor Thomas Graziano.

Historical society places wreaths at veterans’ graves

What do U.S. Marine Corp Pfc. Donald Saunders, of Belleville; Marine Corp Pfc. Richard Bates, of Nutley; Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Paul Christmas, of North Carolina; Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Edwin Aponte, of Puerto Rico; a dozen other U.S. Marines; 15 U.S. Army personnel; two U.S. Navy seamen; and U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Calvin Alexander, of Virginia, all have in common? They were all killed in action in Vietnam and they all rest side by side in row F at Glendale Cemetery in Bloomfield.

Every year the Belleville Historical Society’s participation in the Wreaths Across America project, which places wreaths at the graves of veterans, includes a visit to the veteran section of Glendale Cemetery to lay wreaths on the graves of 15 young men from Belleville and Nutley who were killed in action during World War II and the Vietnam War.

Volunteers turned out in large numbers on Saturday, Dec. 17, for the event. At noon, prior to proceeding to Glendale Cemetery, locals gathered at St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church in Belleville, where the Rev. Ivan Sciberras blessed 100 wreaths before they were set in the church cemetery.

Nutley author Anthony Buccino spoke briefly about the need to remember veterans and those lost in war. The first wreaths were placed on the graves of World War I soldiers and best friends Pvt. Michael Flynn and Pvt. Edward Crowell, both lost during the war and buried side by side in the cemetery. Members of the newly formed Belleville ROTC, with unit leader retired Lt. Col. Richard Wasserman, then set a wreath at the monument to Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. Fred Stockham, of Belleville, who also lost his life during World War I.

Volunteers at the ceremony included Belleville veterans led by American Legion Post 105 Cmdr. Joseph Cobianchi, Belleville Mayor Michael Melham, Councilman Vincent Cozzarelli, Board of Education member Frank Velez, and former

Board of Education members Michael Sheldon and Nelson Berrera. Boy Scouts from Belleville and Bloomfield, and Nutley High School head football coach JD Vick and students were also on hand to help set wreaths. Bloomfield Scouts later proceeded to Mount Olivet Cemetery in Newark to set wreaths, and Nutley students later set wreaths at the cemeteries at Vincent United Methodist Church and Franklin Reformed Church, both in Nutley.

At 1:30 p.m., volunteers assembled in the veteran section of Glendale Cemetery,

where scores of wreaths were set on the graves of young men killed in action. While the society usually lays 15 wreaths at Glendale, this year the society had great support and had 50 sponsors for wreaths at the cemetery. The Belleville Historical Society had recently cleaned an entire row of 35 gravestones of young men killed in Vietnam. There, veterans were again joined by Boy Scouts and Bloomfield Girl Scouts, as well as a large contingent of Pfizer employees, who had sponsored many of the wreaths. Former Belleville Police Officer Scott Sims played

My name is Giannah Auriemma and my family and I are Nutley residents. I am a certified dog groomer and the owner of “Bambis House of Grooming” on Franklin Ave in Nutley, which will be officially OPENING FEBRUARY 1ST!

My career was inspired by my love for dogs, especially my 13 year old Shitzu “Max” and my 11 year old tea cup Chihuahua, “Bambi”. In which I named my business after, since he is the reason I have so much compassion for dogs! While in my care, I will always put their needs first. In addition, I will also share any tips that I think could be a benefit to your dogs’ overall health. I am dedicated, professional and will treat your dogs like my own!

! Can’t wait to meet all your fur babies!

the bagpipe at both events.

The two ceremonies were the start of a three-day process in which Belleville Historical Society members traveled to set wreaths at more than 15 cemeteries in six counties in northern New Jersey, where young men from Belleville and Nutley who were killed in action were buried. Approximately 350 wreaths were set this year, according to Belleville Historical Society President Michael Perrone. The Belleville Historical Society also sets wreaths on the graves of 10 Medal of Honor recipients.

Photos Courtesy of Michael Perrone

Above left and right, volunteers gather at Glendale Cemetery in Bloomfield. Below left, the Rev. Ivan Sciberras of St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church in Belleville blesses wreaths prior to them being placed on veterans’ graves. Below right, former Belleville Police Officer Scott Sims plays the bagpipe.

Cardinal honors Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI at memorial Mass

Though some might feel saddened while reflecting on Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s death, Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, archbishop of Newark, told those attending a Jan. 12 memorial Mass that they should actually “grieve his death in hope,” because the late pontiff has finally attained the peace God promised to all faithful.

“The crucifixion of Jesus displays God’s initiative in opening for the human race unimpeded access to the divine life, to the divine presence,” Tobin said to an intimate gathering of clergy and Catholics in Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart. “Humanity is now free to go to God, and God’s tent is pitched forever among us.

“Benedict’s death,” he continued, is “the fulfillment of hope that does not disappoint — a hope that illuminated his shepherding of the Church, a hope that is renewed in us each day.”

Later in his homily, Tobin commended Benedict’s kindness and nobility, stating that Catholics throughout the world should be grateful for the former pope’s devout faith as well as all the good he accomplished.

The cardinal also reminded those in attendance that Benedict never viewed being a Christian as “an ethical choice or a lofty idea.” Instead, he said the pope emeritus believed people should live their faith

by sharing the love God gifted to humanity.

The Jan. 12 Mass in Newark was the latest in a long line of global tributes honoring Benedict, who died Dec. 31 at the age of 95 following a period of illness. The

pope emeritus was the pontiff who appointed Tobin as the secretary of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, as well as the archbishop of Indianapolis.

Photo Courtesy of Joe Jordan/Archdiocese of Newark Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin encourages those gathered to grieve ‘in hope’ for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.

Photo Courtesy of Sean Quinn/Archdiocese of Newark An archdiocesan priest prays before an image of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.

Belleville SAL raises $6K to help local boy fight cancer

Following a fundraiser held in August, Belleville’s Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105 presented a check to 9-year old Alex, who recently went into remission from leukemia. SAL 105 raised $6,000 to help with his family’s medical expenses.

On Sunday, Dec. 4, Alex finally was in a place where he was comfortable dropping by to meet his new friends at SAL 105, and to take a photo with the big check. To his surprise, Ol’ Saint Nick was also there waiting for him, toys in hand.

Back during the summer, SAL 105 Cmdr. Steve Sangemino and Erica Portee, whose father was a Post 105 Legionnaire, got together and decided to put the full resources of the 105 family into helping Alex and his family. Alex, who is Portee’s nephew, was diagnosed with leukemia when he was 6 years old. After beating cancer and “ringing the bell” in November 2021, he relapsed in February 2022. Post and Squadron 105 decided to make it their mission to raise money to help him get through his treatment, which included 12 rounds of chemotherapy and T-cell immunotherapy.

The fundraiser for Alex was held in the

post parking lot at a benefit barbecue on Aug. 28. With each attendee making a $15 donation at the door, donations came from multiple sources in addition to Post and Squadron 105: American Legion Post 299, Belleville Mayor Michael Melham, Councilman Vincent A. Cozzarelli, and many other organizations and individuals.

“Every single time I get down on my SAL brothers, they step up and amaze me,”

Sangemino wrote in an emotional Facebook post. “With all your help we were able to raise $6,000 to give to (Alex’s) family, (who) surely need our help.”

Members of the American Legion Auxiliary interest group, which is going through the chartering process at Post 105, were also indispensable with their help.

“I’m so appreciative of how many people are so giving and humble with their

hearts — not knowing my nephew, but just knowing his situation,” Portee said. “Everyone came out to give their support, not just financially, but emotionally.”

Fun-loving Alex, who is on his way back to doing all the things he loves — riding his bike, playing the piano, taking taekwondo and watching wrestling, to name a few — came down to Post 105 four months after the fundraiser to say thanks. The same day he visited, the 716th Quartermaster Co. of the U.S. Army was having its Christmas party at the post hall. On his way from the North Pole to the children upstairs at the party, Santa took a slight detour and visited Alex and the rest of the children at the club to wish them a Merry Christmas and hand out presents.

Outside, while taking a photo of Alex with his new SAL 105 buddies, Alex’s mom, Lydia Alvarez, said, “I’m humbled and thankful for this surprise you have all done for us … and more importantly that you have treated us like family. You guys have taken us in without knowing us, so my heart is full. Once we settle our job will be paying it forward, because of you all.”

Photo Courtesy of Rusty Myers Alex poses with members of the SAL 105 and the big check they gave to him and his family.

Host Belleville HS wrestling team wins tournament

The Belleville High School wrestling team, under head coach Joseph Pizzi, is enjoying a successful season.

Belleville hosted and won its fourth annual wrestling tournament on Saturday, Jan. 7. The Bucs finished first out of 12 high schools.

Belleville had four individual champions in the tournament: junior captain Jakob Ferrer at the 106-pound weight class, junior Leo Tiankee at 120 pounds, junior captain Rocco Negron at 132 pounds and senior Fernando Collado at 165 pounds.

Ferrer improved his record to 10-0 on the season. “He did a great job,” said Pizzi in a phone interview with the Belleville Post, noting that Ferrer is also in the top five of his class academically. “He is a vocal leader and a great man.” Ferrer has started since his freshman year. He also is a former recreation wrestler.

Tiankee, another former recreation wrestler, also improved to 10-0 on the season and leads by example.

Negron was voted by the tournament coaches as the outstanding wrestler at the tournament after winning a

tough weight class in impressive fashion and improved to 10-0. “He is a phenomenal young man. A lot of kids look up to him. He is one of our team captains and one of our leaders and contributors.”

The Bucs also had three third-place finishers: senior captain Matias Lopez at 138 pounds, sophomore Demetri Moya at 157 pounds and senior Sterling Fernandez at 215 pounds.

Lopez was a region tournament qualifier last season. Moya, who also plays football, shows much promise, and Pizzi has high hopes for him. Fernandez, who has a jiujitsu background, also has been doing well this season.

Pizzi is excited about the new, state-of-the-art Belleville Indoor Training Facility, which was unveiled a few months ago and is located at 522 Cortlandt St. The team used to train in the school cafeteria.

“I think it’s the best thing that Belleville athletics could have ever done,” Pizzi said. “We have our own double room down there for wrestling; there’s a weight room that we are able to utilize every single day; cardio

section that we can utilize every day, with different cardio machines. There’s a turf room. We do rope slams; we run the track. It’s very beneficial to have and makes everything very convenient. It’s really given the kids a lot more energy; they love going down there, love to train, so I really think it’s turned the new page for our athletics here. The more we utilize it, the better we’ll be, and you’ll notice that in years to come. It’s awesome.”

The Bucs have high hopes for the rest of the season, looking to make a good showing in the Essex County Tournament and the district tournament.

“I have high hopes for the team, as long as we can stay healthy, and everybody is focused and fully locked in,” Pizzi said. “That’s the term that we have been using all year; we’re locked in. Every year, I have a different saying, and this year is ‘all gas, no brake,’ similar to the (New York) Jets. We have that saying. The kids have really bought into the philosophy, and it’s been great this year.”

Photo Courtesy of Joseph Pizzi

Belleville High School wrestling team members are all smiles after winning the Belleville tournament title on Saturday, Jan. 7.

SWIMMING CHAMP — Nutley High School senior Nead

Kojic is shown after taking first place in the 100-yard breaststroke at the Essex County Swimming Championships at New Jersey Institute of Technology on Monday, Jan. 16. Kojic swam a personal-best time of 58.77 seconds, becoming the first county swim champion in Nutley history.

Belleville HS girls hoops team enjoying fine season this winter

The Belleville High School girls basketball team is enjoying a fine season.

The Buccaneers had a four-game winning streak through Wednesday, Jan. 18, to improve to an impressive 9-2 overall record, including 9-1 in the Super Essex Conference–Freedom Division.

Belleville defeated Weequahic High School of Newark 39-11, Golda Och Acade-

my of West Orange 41-22, Technology High School of Newark 29-8 and St. Vincent of Newark 38-23 during the win streak.

Among the BHS leaders this season are seniors Amadi McIver, Amelia Fabara, Gianna DaSilva and Ashley Cely; junior Katherinne Avecillas-MacGregor; and sophomores Camila Cortes-Alonso and McKayla Reed.

BUCS WIN TITLE — The Belleville High School boys basketball team gathers with the championship trophy after winning the William Ferguson Holiday Tournament hosted by North Arlington High School. The Bucs defeated Bergen Tech 55-38 on Dec. 27 and North Arlington 43-31 in the final on Dec. 28. Belleville had a 5-9 overall record through Jan. 17, looking to gain more progress.

Photo Courtesy of Belleville High School Athletics

Photo Courtesy of Nutley High School Athletics