Belleville receives a $78K Clean Communities grant from state DEP
BELLEVILLE – The township will be receiving a $78,312.59 Clean Communities grant from the state Department of Environmental Protection’s (NJDEP) Solid Waste Division.
The annual Clean Communities grants help municipalities and counties across New Jersey promote volunteer and paid clean-up events, purchase equipment, support enforcement activities and educational opportunities.
“We are always looking for ways to push Belleville toward a cleaner, greener future,” said Mayor Michael Melham, a regular panelist at the annual NJCCC seminar in Atlantic City. “Our Department of Public Works conducts numerous programs aimed at keeping our town litter-free throughout the year. It is through programs such as Clean Communities that we are able to keep our streets, open space, recreation areas and township grounds clear of litter and debris.”
This year’s grant is an increase from 2023, when Belleville received $68,947, and 2022, when Belleville received $61,740.
“Though Mayor Melham’s leadership, Belleville has consistently been one of the top municipalities in the state in regards to fighting litter," said JoAnn Gemenden, executive director, New Jersey Clean Communities Council.
"We work closely with Belleville to ensure that state funds are continually maximized to develop and implement anti-litter education and programming in the township, as well as to coordinate local clean-ups,” she said. “We are confident that Belleville will use the funding this year in a smart, strategic way in 2024 to further expand the Clean Communities mission.”
This year’s total $27.3 million in funding represents more than a $3 million increase from last year. In total, the DEP is awarding $24.3 million to eligible municipalities and more than $3 million to counties across the state to conduct cleanups, educate the public and enforce
litter-related laws and ordinances. Allocations are based on statistical reports that outline the number of housing units and municipally-owned roadway mileage in a respective area.
Grants are funded by a legislated userfee on manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors that produce litter-generating products.
“Local litter abatement programs are more important than ever as we strive to prevent roadway litter from getting into our waterways,” Gemenden added. “Clean Communities grants provide local governments with critical funds to help create a Litter Free NJ.”
The Clean Communities Council operates public awareness campaigns to educate the public, primarily youth, about the adverse environmental impacts of litter, especially on waterways.
The organization also helped facilitate the transition away from single-use plastic and paper bags with its Litter Free NJ campaign, using public service announcements and other outreach to remind residents to bring their own reusable bags when shopping, and to recycle plastic bags. These efforts have helped to significantly reduce the amount of plastic pollution in the state by an estimated 8 billion single-use bags per year.
Litter comes from many sources, such as people who carelessly toss away their trash, overflowing and uncovered garbage cans, and construction sites. Litter is often dispersed by the wind and carried into stormwater collection systems, where it can clog drains causing flooding, harm wildlife and degrade the quality of the state’s surface waters.
The Clean Communities grant program funds a variety of activities including volunteer cleanups of public spaces; cleanups of stormwater systems that can disperse trash into waterways; educational outreach campaigns; enforcement of local anti-littering ordinances; graffiti removal; and purchases of trash receptacles, recycling bins and anti-litter signs.
A full day of activities is planned in the township to celebrate the Fourth of July.
The day kicks off with Yoga in the Park at 9:30 a.m. at No. 7 School Field. Participants are encouraged to bring their own yoga mat and join the warm-up session at 9:30 a.m., followed by a 45-minute yoga session starting at 9:45 a.m.
At 11 a.m., the township will honor Revolutionary War Soldiers buried at the Dutch Reformed Church located at Rutgers Street and Main Street. This ceremony will pay tribute to the soldiers who fought for our country’s independence as well as honoring the day Belleville received its name.
The celebration will culminate with a vibrant Color Run at 12 noon at Belleville High School, sponsored in part by the Belleville Police Department and the Mayor Michael Melham Civic Association. This free event invites participants to wear white T-shirts and join in the fun, colorful run.
Fireworks, meanwhile, are scheduled for July 3 at Belleville Municipal Stadium, where there will also be face painting, food trucks, clowns, rides and a DJ.
Movies, music and fireworks all summer long in the township
Mayor Michael Melham and the Township Council have announced a lineup of summer activities that includes the following:
July 3 Family Fun and fireworks at dusk at Belleville Municipal Stadium.
July 4: Independence Day Celebration with Yoga in the Park and Color Run
July 11, 2024: Tribute to Elton John at Belleville High School, music starts at 7 p.m.
July 17, 2024: Movie Night - "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts" at dusk at Belleville High School.
July 18, 2024: Alternate Groove (Rock & Soul) at Belleville High School, music starts at 7 p.m.
July 25, 2024: Jersey Sound at Belleville High School, music starts at 7 p.m.
Aug. 1, 2024: Country Music at Belleville High School, music starts at 7 p.m.
Aug. 8, 2024: 80's Band at Belleville High School, music starts at 7 p.m.
Aug. 14, 2024: Movie Night - "Luca" at dusk at Belleville High School.
Aug. 15, 2024: Salsa Night at Belleville High School, music starts at 7 p.m.
Aug. 22, 2024: Freestyle Night with DJ Ralph, Soave & Judy Torres at Belleville High School, music starts at 7 p.m.
Aug. 29:, 2024 70s, 80s, 90s, and beyond, followed by Fireworks, at Belleville High School, music starts at 7 p.m.
Photo Courtesy of Belleville Police Department
CONGRATS! — The Belleville Police Department recently announced the promotion of Sgt. Grover Lewis III. He is seen here at his swearing in ceremony.
Photo Courtesy of Belleville Twp.
From left, Belleville Police Chief Mark Minichini, NJCCC Executive Director JoAnn Gemenden, Mayor Michael Melham and Township Manager Anthony D. Iacono with a check representing the money from the state.
MEET THE SCHOLARS — The Suburban Essex Chamber of Commerce recently had its annual scholarship luncheon at Bucco Restaurant in Bloomfield, where recipients were able to enjoy the happy moment with their families. The chamber awarded six scholarships, which were made possible by members of the chamber. The recipients, with members of the chamber, are, from left, Chamber President Mario Drozdz; Ian Springer of Glen Ridge; Aiden J. Rodriguez of Belleville; Thomas DeVingo Jr. of Belleville; Isabella Rivas and Victoria Parelli of Bloomfield; Alexander Bonnett of Glen Ridge; and Cecelia Polizzi, who is chamber vice president and chairperson of the scholarship program.
Registration for Summer II 2024 classes at Essex County College is underway. The College’s Summer II term starts Monday, July 8, and runs until Thursday, Aug. 15.
Students may also register for Fall 2024 classes at this time. Fall 2024 Semester classes begin on Tuesday, Sept. 3.
Essex County College’s main campus is in Newark. The new West Essex campus is located in West Caldwell.
“Essex County College offers more than 50 associate degree programs and academic certificates in a wide range of disciplines. Essex graduates transfer as juniors to many New Jersey colleges and universities, as well as top schools around the country. Register early to get the classes you want,” said Alvin Williams, executive dean of faculty and academics.
For more information, go to: https://www.essex.edu/registration/. Students may be eligible for scholarships and qualify for the Educational Opportunity Fund program.
Additional registration information is available through the College’s Welcome Center, located on the 2nd Floor at the Newark campus, by calling the Center at 973-877-4477, or the West Essex campus at 973-877-3175.
Welcome To La Sicilia Ristorante and Pizzeria
Photo Courtesy of Kliment Pavlovski (KleverBPO)
This message is sponsored by these community minded businesses and organizations
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SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE — The Belleville Farmers Market is open for the summer. The market has an array of local vendors, offering fresh vegetables, prepared foods, coffee, Eco-friendly products, costume jewelry, wax melts, honey and more. The market is at the municipal stadium, 100 Passaic Ave., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., every Sunday through Oct. 27. Vendors include Sugarman Farms, the Belleville Community Garden, Shi’s Cakes & Things, Confections by Carla, Luna Brew Coffee, Pine Acres Lemonade and Sourland Mountain Spirits.
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Nutley UNICO gives out scholarships, announces new officers
MEET THE SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS — Nutley UNICO has awarded more than $44,000 in scholarships to Nutley high school seniors since April of this year. Most recently, UNICO awarded scholarships to Angelina Colarisso (Pennoni Scholarship), Sandra Fedulla (Nutley UNICO Vocational) not pictured, Ava Iannitelli (Pedolino Scholarship), Jennifer Pontoriero (Nicholas Martini Scholarship), Lucas Serritella (UNICO Language Scholarship), Gianna Mauriello (Kelly Scholarship), Delilah Roselli (Crupi Scholarship), Ava DelGreco (DiMaggio Scholarship), Riley Sebastiano (Carnicella Scholarship) and Jonathan Breihof and Kay Guven (Amy Bonadonna Scholarships). The Nutley Chapter of UNICO has been promoting and preserving its Italian Heritage since 1959.
CONGRATULATIONS! — Nutley UNICO has announced their new slate of officers for 2024/2025. Danielle Ferrara Manganello was selected to preside over the 176 member group for the upcoming year. Joining her will be Immediate Past President Dan Carnicella; First Vice President Pasquale Pisani; Second Vice President Frank Russo; Third Vice President Mark DiMaggio; Secretary Jerry DelTufo; Treasurer Tom Sposato, Recording Secretary Sal Ferraro; Members-at-Large Anthony Biondi, Jr. (not pictured) and Lenny Guglielmello and Sergeant at Arms Anthony Mascolo. Nutley UNICO also announced recently that their Unican of the Year award was given to Frank Russo, who is a first generation Italian American. His parents immigrated to the United States and settled on King Street near the border between Nutley and Belleville. Russo is a mechanical engineer who has worked on electronic warfare systems for fighter jets for 36 years. Russo is an active volunteer in organizations in Belleville and Nutley and has been a member of UNICO for 15 years.
Photo Courtesy of Nutley UNICO
Photo Courtesy of Nutley UNICO
Local men take on statewide SAL roles
Two members of Belleville’s Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105 assumed new offices at the detachment level at the American Legion Department of New Jersey Convention earlier this month.
The Detachment of New Jersey is the state-level entity of the Sons of the American Legion (SAL), which oversees the operations of New Jersey’s 180-plus squadrons.
Rusty Myers, adjutant at Squadron 105, was installed as detachment adjutant in a ceremony on Friday, June 14.
Myers has held several offices throughout the county and state, and now
assumes an appointed position where he is managing the administration of 10,000 members of the SAL throughout New Jersey. He works on the 2024-25 leadership team of newly elected Detachment Commander Rich Hodum, who was elected in Wildwood on the same day.
An hour later, Myers installed James Elsmore of Nutley, also from Belleville 105, as the new Detachment Executive Committeeman (DEC) of Essex County. Elsmore is currently the first vice commander of Squadron 105, and now takes on the additional role of representing the interests of Essex County’s Sons at the state level for a three year term.
Photo Courtesy of Rusty Myers
Rusty Myers, right, installing James Elsmore as Essex Countys Detachment Executive Committeeman at the state level. Myers was sworn in earlier as detachment adjutant.
5 DIY painter’s tape hacks to elevate backyard spaces
Looking to beautify your backyard? Read on for five fresh ways to update your outdoor space with just a roll of painter’s tape, a can of paint and a little creativity –and uncover some innovative painter’s tape tricks to make these DIYs super simple.
Faux Throw - Take the patio to another level by adding a painted throw rug onto your decking. Use painter’s tape to outline the size of the rug onto the patio surface to ensure colors won’t bleed or drip outside the project area. Using normal scissors, trim a row of painter’s tape to form a zigzag or wave. Lay out the preferred pattern and paint one section at a time. Go with a simple design with a wash of overall color or let the creativity flow to form something completely unique.
Backyard Mural – Let the walls do the talking with a backyard mural. Choose a large space like the side of a garage, or even a portion of a wood fence, and let your imagination soar. Map out specific patterns with painter’s tape, or simply block off the section to be painted and be fluid and free. Tape out the design with an edge-treated product like FrogTape Multi-Surface painters tape with PaintBlock technology that ensures super sharp paint lines. Before you begin, get inspired by reviewing the 2024 FrogTape Design Trends created by celebrity interior designer Taniya Nayak.
Bright Blooms – Plant beautifully bright blooms in pots and get the color-saturated garden of your dreams.
Form a variety of patterns with different widths of painter’s tape and pick paint shades to complement existing patio furniture or throw pillows. Add texture with different brushes or stencils, choose pops of color to contrast with the petals or fresh green leaves, or use a variety of shades to create an ombre look.
Under the Umbrella – Let the entire family contribute to a one-of-a-kind patio umbrella. Using painter’s tape, outline the areas of the umbrella to paint and wash the design in color – use brushes, shapes and even hands to bring the look to life. Go wild with geometric patterns or a layered plaid, or assign each section of the umbrella to a different family member to complete. Color match with outdoor pillows or patio furniture to create a polished finish or bring everything into technicolor with a rainbow aesthetic.
Solids or Stripes – Get funky with shutters or awnings by adding some multi-color elements. Simply tape off the top with painter’s tape and apply paint. FrogTape Delicate Surface painter's tape is a smart choice for helping add details to freshly painted surfaces (dry for 24 hours) and with the product’s PaintBlock Technology, there’s no bleed, and no wait time to get to work!
Painter’s tape is the perfect tool to help with all your summer paint projects. These simple DIY tricks can get the job done and make you look like a pro!
– StatePoint
Congrats to Belleville High School’s Class of 2024!
The Belleville High School Class of 2024:
Joshua Abramson
Dahianny Infante Abreu
Danelvi Rachelle Acosta
Claudia Macarena Aguilar
Isaac David Aguilar Sierra
Leianna Amjad Ahmed
David Ajila
Eleonora Alcantara Santana
Jostyn Kenne Alcivar Gonzales
Angelyna Aleman
Alexa Renee Almeida
Alexander Alsina
Robert Altamirano
Matthew Amaya
Sheyla Amparo
Michell Alexia Angulo
Winner Chimbusomma Anosike
Lailani Lourdes Aquino
Johan Arce
Jazzlinne Laurene Arias
Michelle Armijos
Nicole Michelle Atariguana
Julian Myles Aupont
Katherinne Gabriela Avecillas
Macgregor
Emily Andrea Ayala
Sophia Denise Ayala Villarreal
Jessika Gouzif Azmi
Bryanna Baez
Francisco Alejandro Baez
Christina Alexandra Bajuz
Luis Junior Baldeon
Galadrielle Baldevarona
Mariana Alejandra Baquero Navas
Bryam Xavier Barbecho Tene
MariaNayely Barbecho Tene
Valentina Barcia
Noah Nicholas Barnes
Felix-Andrew Barragan
Aiden Barreno
Lesly Paulina Bermejo Caguana
Andrew Berrezueta
AnthonyBeshay
Khalil Tamarian Bey
Gabriel Manuel Bian
Adanelys Bonilla
Olivia Patricia Boylan
Matthew Brango
John Justin Bravo Morocho
Mia Lynette Brito
Ricardo Adrian Buenano
Dalexandro Del Piero Burga Blanco
Ryan Burgos
Nathan Alesis Caban
Nathaly Ninel Cabezas Pacheco
Maylin Calderon
Ebony Calixto
Stephanie Giselle Calle
Karen Renata Calle Jaramillo
Stephanie Helena Campbell
Shantel Campoverde
Samuel Canaval
Michael Gabriel Capin
Tania Carbajal
Clober Vitelio Cardoza Estrada
Joel Castaneda
Alejandra Solange Castaneda Diaz
Melenie Marie Castillo DeJesus
Kathleen Castro
Rayan Cheikhali
Mandy Chen
Joshua Cherres
Andrea Madeleine Chicaiza Orellana
Marco Chicchon
Christopher Nicolino Ciampitti
Rose Cintron Alexa
Owen Coba
Lizbeth Stephania Riera Coloma
Brandon Colon
James Jack Cooper
Andrew Corbacho
Jaileen Faith Cordova
Samuel Ulises Corona Lantigua
Jhosue Matias Cortes
Alex J. Cruz
Jayla Cruz
Valerie Estelle Cruz
Jaylen Jonah Cuevas
Kimberly C.S. Da Silva
Aaliyah Ashantae Davis
Ruben Dario Daza-Espitia
Katelynn Michelle De Benedetto
AngelGabriel De Jesus
Joshua Erick De Leon
Luis Virgilio De Leon
Shantal Guerrero De Morla
Juliette Delgado
Riya Desai
Jonathan Dessources
Thomas Frank DeVingo
Maria Eloiza Novais Dias
Ivelisse Diaz
Michelle Estefania Diaz
Christian Dizon
Saraphina Angelika Dorainvil
Moses Dorleon
Niyla Simone Dorrell
Sean Ellis Dowd
Samantha Mari Duprey
Dylan Echeverry
Abdullah Ahmed Hassan Elbelkasi
Jose David Endara Cantos
Katherine Espinoza
Kimberly Espinoza
David Estevez
Brayan Adolfo Estrada
Aldrich Etienne
Bernie Yaviel Fajardo
Luis Fajardo
Dylan Josue Fajardo Rodas
Joshua Falcon
Alondra Marie Fernandez
Gabriela Alexis Ferreira
Photos by Steve Ellmore
Senior Class President Brianna Surichaqui, above, welcomes parents, faculty and families to Belleville High School’s commencement excercise.
More than 100 scholarships were given to members of BHS Class of 2024
(Continued from Page 11)
Ryan Merceda
Isabella Meza
Ariana Nicole Milano
Maximus Milet
James Thomas Monroig
Tyler Montalvo
Nicole A. Montero
Kayla Monticer
CesarJulian Montilla Quito
Daisy Morales
Johnson Bee Morales
Richard Jorge Anthony Moreno
Sophia Moscoso
Josselyn Mucha
Adrian Muniz
Rhiana Negron
Rocco Negron
Felix Antonio Nina Martinez
Joshua Gyaltsen Nodong
Ramon Stherling Nova Pena
Denzel Nunez
Santiago Nunez
Gabriel Ordonez
Marco Ordonez
Sebastian Orozco Fernando
Estefany Lizeth Orozco Morales
Julio Ortega
Ana Cristina Ortiz
Matthew Alejandro Ortiz
Samantha Jenaye Ortiz
See SALUTATORIAN, Page 13
Photo by Steve Ellmore
Rose Quezada, above, president of the Student Government Organization at Belleville High School, speaks to the class during the graduation ceremony.
Salutatorian Riya Desai and valedictorian John Martin both spoke at ceremony
(Continued from Page 12)
Maziatou Ouedraogo
Jhony Paul Palaguachi
Vincent Pan
Alexis Heaven Paredes
Angelina Paredes
Jocelyn Jesenia Paredes
Jadyn Elijah Pascual
Shiv Patel
Jeffrey Ivan Pena
LauraKatherin Pena Morales
Valeria Penaloza
Kimberly Peralta
Michael Perez
Nehemiah Alfonso Perez
Rodel Samson Perez
Tania Samanta Perez Guaman
Marino Perez-Guerra
Abraham Joseph Perez-Quezada
Mariano Perna Luca
Kevin Phan
Willinson Philippe
Bryan Polanco-Frias
Kimberly Calouro Ponte
Michele Portilla
Rose Quezada
Carlos Sebastian Quezada Rodriguez
Nicole Ramos
Angel Jomar Ramos Gonzalez
Julia Rasczyk
Anthony Josue Reinoso
Jaden AngeloBecina Resurreccion
Alexandra Paris Revilla
Ashley Nichole Reyes
Rolando Isaac Rivas-Caceres See SENIOR
(Continued from Page 13)
Angelina Jaylin Rivera
Jaylynne Rivera Harmony
Angel Rivera Leyba
Jeffery Zaid Rivera-Hernandez
Adrian Arcadio Rodriguez
AidenJairo Rodriguez
Christian Manuel Rodriguez
Daniel Jacobs Rodriguez
Josiah Rodriguez
Melissa Rodriguez
MateoGiordano Rodriguez Gonzalez
Lisbeth Rodriguez Martinez
JoseAlberto Rodriguez-Vidal
Jessica Rojas-Romero
Jorge Romero
Avelino Diana Roque
Julissa Rosado
Tyla Rosado
Julia Marie Rosario
Miracle Rosario
AngelJosue Rosario-Correa
Danny Javier Rubio
Danae Abigahil Ruiz Luna
Savannah Anne Russell
Franco Russomanno
Valerie Michelle Saenz
Esmarling David Salas Medinas
Devin Samayoa
Mikaela Bernal San Pedro
Gabriel Sanchez
Isabella Sanchez
Kevin Yadiel Sanchez
Michael Sanchez
See SUPERINTENDENT
Superintendent
and
school board president passed out diplomas to the graduates
(Continued from Page 14)
Valeria Sanchez
Neil Sanchez-Cruzalegui
Tabatha Akemi Santacruz Vaca
Yareliz Iveliz Santaliz Medina
Destiny Elisa Santana
Elijah Noel Santiago
Roberto Antonio Santiago
Jake Orlando Santos
Juan Sebastian Sarmiento Echeverry
Yadhira Elizabeth Serna Zevallos
Evelyn Tatiana Shambi Calle
Mya Shiann Sherman
Mohamed Amin Sidahmed
Izaiyah Silver
Skyler Sincere Slattery
Malik Suliman Smith
Joan Sosa
Angelina Isabel Soto
Dominick Spagnoli
Alexander Suarez Jordi
Steve Suarez
James Patrick Suba
Daniel Suero
Mohamed Med Suliman
Brianna Surichaqui
Emily Szekalski
James Steven Tapia
JohnKevin Tapia
Leopoldo Hanz D. Tiankee
Mentor Alexander Tinajero Paucar
Noah Jadyn Tomey
Jeremi Torres
JosueTorres
Nathan Isaiah Torres
Katherine Zaida Trinidad
Jose Mauricio Ucancial
Luis Carlos Urena-Sequeira
Evelyn Carolina Vaca
ArlynMerianny Valdez Paredes
Jordan Valentine
Anthony Michael Valese
Piper Savannah Marie Varela
Hailey Iylisse Vargas
Hamlet Daniel Vargas
ChrisJonathan Velez
Ethan Villalobos
Roman Voloshyn
Bradley Voltaire
Justice Walls-Turner
Aubrey Kelly Webson
Jeremy Chet Wicks
Joshua Wicks
Azriel Williams
Ilana Zhara Williams
Jonathan Daniel Yurkanin
Oscar Yuste Guerrero
Amaya Zecena
Sergio Lebranis Zuniga
Melany Zurita
Belleville offers adult recreation programs
BELLEVILLE — For the first time ever, Belleville is rolling out adult programming through its recreation department.
Under the leadership of interim director Lenny Averhoff, the township will be organizing a pickleball league featuring doubles play open to residents 18 and over, according to a press release from the township, which said that games will be played each Saturday 9 a.m. to noon at the Belleville Municipal Stadium Complex. Single registrants are welcome.
The Belleville Recreation Department is also launching a co-ed basketball league that will feature half-court, three-on-three play. Teams can have up to five players, but there must be at least one woman and one man on the court at all times, the release said.
Games are scheduled for each Saturday 1 to 4 p.m. at the Friendly House in the Silver Lake section of Belleville.
“I’m a retired Port Authority policeman and I have loved competing in their sports programs like flag football and basketball,” said Averhoff. “I know a lot of the residents of Belleville also love to play sports, and we are happy to debut these adult summer programs. We decided to launch basketball and pickleball first because they’re popular sports. When we offer our pickleball lessons, the time slots fill up in a day or two.”
Averhoff, a longtime coach in the Recreation Department and a football coach at Belleville High School, said the deadline to register for the pickleball and basketball leagues is July 20, and play will begin July 27.
The cost is $50 per team, and checks and money orders should be made out to the Township of Belleville.
“I’m pleased that for the first time, we are offering adult programming through our recreation department,” Mayor Michael Melham said. “Not only are sports and recreation activities important to healthy lifestyles, but they help connect residents with their neighbors and represent a great way to make new friends. Under Lenny Averhoff, the department is already making a difference.”
For more information, call 973-450-3422.
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The new pickleball and tennis courts at Owens Field have officially opened, according to an announcement from Nutley Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci and the Department of Parks and Public Property. The addition of six new pickleball courts and reconstructing of two tennis courts have been completed and are open, the announcement said. Owens Field is located at 75 Park Ave. in Nutley.
healthy living
Why men should talk more about their health
American men may be neglecting their health and wellness, particularly when it comes to their urological health. But an open line of communication between men and their healthcare providers, and among family members, can lead to better care.
A Cleveland Clinic survey found that only 3 out of 5 men get annual physicals and 55% do not get regular health screenings. What’s more, many men shy away from the subject of their health, with 77% reporting that they don’t know their complete family history when it comes to urological issues.
“There is a clear need to fill care gaps and destigmatize men’s health issues,” says Shaun Noorian, CEO and founder of Empower Pharmacy, a compounding pharmacy that supports patients with men’s health concerns such as testosterone, sexual wellness, prostate health and gynecomastia.
Fortunately, innovations in the health care industry that are expanding access to tailored care are helping fill these gaps and helping health care providers support their patients’ needs more effectively.
Noorian’s own story shows how a compounding pharmacy helped him optimize his health. His doctor recommended compounded medications after a health and wellness check of his hormones. The compounded medications provided the exact dosage and strength prescription he needed, which can’t always be found through traditional medicines. But compounding goes beyond hor-
mones. Noorian discovered it could also address various men’s health concerns like testosterone, sexual wellness, urology and dermatology.
Noorian says that men can use these tips for a happy, healthier life:
• Don’t wait until you have a serious medical condition to see your doctor. Schedule annual physicals and all recommended health care screenings.
• Destigmatize men’s health issues by talking to male family members about prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths for men in the United States and a man is two to three times more likely to get prostate cancer if his father, brother or son had it. You should also talk to your primary care doctor or
urologist about having a blood test and examination, particularly if you have a family history of the disease.
• Erectile dysfunction affects nearly 30 million men of all ages across the United States, according to the Indiana University School of Medicine, which notes that it could be the sign of another underlying health issue. Your urologist can help rule out causes, like heart disease and high blood pressure.
• When dealing with men’s health issues, talk to your healthcare provider about all available treatment options, including the potential benefits of using a compounding pharmacy. Compounded medicine enables healthcare providers to prescribe treatments that are specifically tailored to individual biomarkers (biological molecules found in body fluids or tissues that are a sign of a condition or disease) by dosage and formulation. By analyzing biomarker data, compounded medications can be formulated with precise dosages and combinations of more than one active pharmaceutical ingredient, optimizing therapeutic outcomes for a wide range of health conditions.
To learn more about how compounding pharmacies can support men’s health, visit empowerpharmacy.com.
“For the best care possible, men should be proactive about their health, and providers should explore with their patients all available treatment options, including personalized solutions,” says Noorian.
Dr. Daniel Groisser
Photo Courtesy of greenleaf123 / iStock via Getty Images Plus
Belleville Historical Society finds grave of Civil War Soldier
The Belleville Historical Society made an unexpected and timely discovery in Bloomfield last week, perfectly timed to commemorate Juneteenth.
The Society restores and cleans historic and military monuments throughout northern New Jersey. While doing restoration work in Bloomfield Cemetery on Thursday, June 13, they unexpectedly and very surprisingly came across the grave of a black Civil War veteran.
Jacob Freeman served as a private in Company D of the 26th United States Colored Infantry Regiment.
Upon further research the Society learned that there were four other black Civil War veterans buried in the cemetery. including one who was buried with no headstone. With Juneteenth just a week away the Society saw this as a good history education opportunity.
The Society located, set flags and cleaned the headstones of the three other veterans and then went to work making a mold in order to reproduce a regulation Civil War soldier headstone with their distinctive shield impression for veteran James Sloane.
Sloane was buried 100 years ago, on July 14, 1924 without a headstone and his grave remained unmarked for a century. The Society set Sloane’s headstone on Friday, June 21 and held a small dedication on Saturday at 11 a.m.
Marine Corps veteran Peter Gasiewicz plays taps alongside James Sloane's grave.
Those in attendance included Essex County American Legion Chapter commander-elect Joseph Cobianchi and Glen Ridge Council President Ann Marie Morrow and Councilor LoriJeane Moody.
Two hours earlier Bugles Across America and Vietnam Marine Corps veteran Peter Gasiewicz stopped by the cemetery on his way to a military funeral in Bergen County and played taps alongside Sloane's grave.
and fifth graders, pictured below.
Photos Courtesy of Fr. Ivan Sciberras
Photo Courtesy Belleville Historical Society
House hunting? Here’s how to secure a lower mortgage rate
If you’re hesitant to buy a home right now due to high interest rates, you can use this time to learn how interest rates work, and to take steps to secure a lower interest rate when you are ready to buy.
Defining Mortgage Rates
A mortgage rate is the interest rate you pay on the money you borrow to buy your house, and a lower rate increases your purchasing power.
Even a small difference in your interest rate can make a big difference in your payments over the life of your loan.
That’s why it’s important to watch mortgage rates closely when house hunting.
Lenders set a mortgage rate for each individual based on several factors, including current market rates and individual credit history.
You can determine how much your monthly payments would be at different rates using Freddie Mac’s Fixed-Rate Mortgage Calculator at myhome.freddiemac.com/resources/calculators/fixedrate-mortgages.
Improving Your Loan Application
Boosting your credit score is one of the best ways to improve your chances of qualifying for a loan and lowering the interest rate you are offered.
Some proactive steps you can take to build and maintain your credit include:
• Making payments on time.
• Using as little of your credit limit as possible.
• Paying the full amount due, or at least more than the minimum amount due, on your credit cards.
• Opening and maintaining credit accounts in your own name.
• Keeping only a few credit cards or credit accounts open.
• Paying down debts.
• Reviewing your credit reports annually.
• Disputing inaccuracies in your credit report.
Real Estate
COUNTY HOME SALES
BLOOMFIELD
11-11Greenbrook Dr$551,0004/29/2024
103Thomas St$510,0004/25/2024
136Spruce St$470,0004/26/2024
2C-42John St$360,0004/26/2024
NUTLEY
120Mountainview Ave$735,0004/29/2024
84Fischer Ave$725,0004/26/2024
15Gerard Rd$665,0004/29/2024
83Alexander Ave$811,000 5/24/2024
6Terrace Ave$760,000 5/28/2024
431Manchester Dr$725,000 5/28/2024
259High St$552,000 5/24/2024
20Laurel Pl$550,000 5/28/2024
B-448River Rd$281,900 5/28/2024
• Trying to have credit inquiries made strategically within a limited time period when comparison shopping for mortgages and loans.
Lenders will also look at your debt-toincome (DTI) ratio when making a decision about your loan application, as it is
an important marker of your overall financial health.
As a guideline, your monthly debt-toincome ratio should be 33% to 36% or less.
Representing how much of your monthly income you are using to pay your debt, this handy calculator can help you determine your DTI: myhome.freddiemac.com/resources/calculators/debtto-income-ratio-calculator.
To learn more about smart credit management, use Freddie Mac’s CreditSmart online courses found at creditsmart.freddiemac.com.
Shopping Around
In addition to improving your credit and reducing your DTI, you can also potentially get a lower interest rate and avoid certain lender fees by shopping around.
Freddie Mac research shows that similar borrowers may receive notably different rates based on the lender, and that homebuyers can potentially save $600 to $1,200 annually by applying for mortgages from multiple lenders. It’s generally a good idea to get three to five quotes. During this process, you can use this Mortgage Worksheet to identify the best lender and mortgage option for you: myhome.freddiemac.com/resources/mor tgage-comparison.
If you’re in the market to buy a home, watch mortgage rates carefully. And when you are ready to buy, don’t take the first mortgage offered. Be sure to shop around and ask about opportunities to secure a lower rate.
– StatePoint
Photo Courtesy of PeopleImages / iStock via Getty Images Plus
burban Essex Chamber of Commerce
Atlantic Uniform Co.
Bucco Restaurant
Bloomfield Surgi-Center (ACES)
Forest Hill Field Club
Generazio Associates
Lifecare Community Services
Provident Bank (Ampere Branch)
Four Seasons Pest Control
Kitchen Tune-Up Bloomfield
Literacy Volunteers of America
Provident Bank (Bloomfield Center)
Provident Bank(Belleville) • ShopRite of Belleville
State Farm Insurance, Diane Smith Agent • Worrall Media • Zippo’s Mobile Electronics
Arden’s Motorsports
City Wide Urgent Care
BPD
A contingent of Belleville Police Department officers recently took and completed the four-day International Police Mountain Bike Association Police & EMS Cyclist Course. IPMBA offers internationally recognized Certification and Training Courses developed by experts in the fields of police, EMS, and security cycling.
The training is done by certified instructors and it provides skills for safe
and effective use of the bicycle in police, EMS, and security work.
The training combines Emergency Vehicle Operations for bike officers with patrol procedures, tactics, night operations, mock scenes, and basic bike maintenance and on-the-road repairs. Officers learn to avoid crashes and use a bike to foil the bad guys. Off-road riding and bike-specific live-fire exercises are also done.
Photos Courtesy of BPD
Nutley resident wins award for her short story
A Nutley woman was recognized in an Essex County writing contest for her story about her father’s funeral and the memories that it brought up.
Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. and the Division of Senior Services announced the four winners and four honorable mention recipients of the 2024 Essex County Senior Citizen Legacies Writing Contest.
Catherine Stamm from Nutley wrote “The Formica Table” which won an honorable mention and was selected as the Director’s Pick.
In “The Formica Table,” Stamm wrote about her father’s funeral and how she stopped at a bakery to pick up desserts for the repast. While in the store, the white Formica with gold specks reminded her of the kitchen table her parents had.
It was where they sat and ate freshly baked rolls purchased from the same bakery when they were younger, with her father cutting the rolls to share. He would also smoke cigars at the kitchen table, which had a subtle burn mark from when the cigar ash fell out of the ashtray.
The winning stories were read by Essex County West Caldwell School of Technology students at a ceremony in May.
WORSHIP CALENDAR
BAPTIST
B R OOKDALE C H R ISTIA N C HU RC H , 1350 Broad Street, Bloomfield, 973-338-8536
We are a church that preaches and teaches the Bible. We invite you to join us in worship on Sundays at 10:30 am. Children’s Bible activities for ages 4 through 5th grade (called BCC Kids Church) are provided. Worship services can also be seen live online on YouTube and Facebook and via our website at www .brookdalechristian.com.
In addition, we offer Bible Studies on Sunday mornings at 9:00 and on Thursday evenings at 7:00. You can participate in either one of these classes -or both- through Zoom by calling the church to get placed on the Zoom call list. There are several other opportunities throughout the week involving prayer, study, and community for all age levels. Brookdale is a loving and caring congregation under the leadership of Pastor Love Saquing and Pastor Jim Treffinger. Our mission is to be a Family Growing Together in God.
To add your House of Worship or make copy changes Email us: Adservices@thelocalsource.com or call 908-686-7700 x146
Belleville HS athletes announce college choices
both attend Caldwell University to continue their track and field careers. Not pictured, Brianna Surichaqui will attend St. Peter’s University to further her swimming career and Santiago Nunez will attend the County College of Morris to play baseball. Congratulations to all the athletes and best wishes in their careers.
Belleville High School Athletics celebrated several senior student-athletes who announced their college decisions during a ceremony. Above left, Katherine Espinoza will attend Caldwell University to play soccer.
Above right, Aiden Rodriguez will attend Felician University to play soccer. Below left, Jordan Valentine and, below right, James Cooper will
Photos Courtesy of Belleville High School Athletics
Jr. Bucs 11U baseball team crowned champions
Belleville squad simply dominant, captures UABL divisional title to cap unbeaten season
The Belleville Jr. Bucs 11U travel baseball team defeated Livingston, 10-0, on Sunday, June 9, to cap off an unbeaten 11-0-1 season and win the United Amateur Baseball League’s Central Metro division championship.
This was the Jr. Bucs’ third title in four years.
This year, the Bucs defeated Caldwell, North Caldwell, Montclair and Livingston, as well as two club teams from Wayne and North Arlington. The Jr. Bucs outscored their three playoff opponents by a score of 33-1. They relied on strong pitching and defense as they only allowed 18 runs in 12 games, which was the best out of 178 11U teams in New Jersey.
Their pitching staff allowed 1.5 runs per game and struck out 44 % of the batters they faced over the course of the season.
The Jr. Bucs bats did not disappoint in scoring 14, nine, and 10 runs in their three playoff games. These boys have been together since 8U and the sky's the limit for them. They come to practice every day with the goal of getting better and making each other stronger!
Roster : Dante Armstrong, Justin Browne, Bobby Canon, Ethan Cordero, Brandon Garcia, Christopher Mejia, JP Canon, Isaiah Ramirez, Jayce Silva, Lawrence Vanderbly and Mason Zeigler. The head coach is Will Canon, with assistant coaches Alan Browne and Tom Agosta.
At right, the Belleville Jr. Bucs 11U baseball team members are all smiles after enjoying a terrific season.
COLLEGE COMMITMENTS — Belleville High School student-athletes announce their college decisions during a ceremony. At left, Rocco Negron will attend Felician University to further his wrestling career.
At right, Deanna McIntosh will attend St. Elizabeth University to play softball. This past winter, Negron won the 144-pound title and was voted the District 10 state tournament’s Most Outstanding Wrestler.
Photos Courtesy of Belleville High School Athletics
Photo Courtesy of Alan Browne
