Belleville Post - July 2023

BELLEVILLE POST ESSEXNEWSDAILY.COM

JULY 2023

VOL. 35 NO. 51

BPD fire up ‘Torch Run’

— See Page 3

Scholarships for students Photo by Amanda Valentovic

Rain didn’t dampen the spirits of the Belleville High School Class of 2023, seen here as they make their way into Municipal Stadium at the start of the ceremony.

— See Page 4

BHS seniors are honored

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Class of 2023 enjoys soggy graduation Amanda Valentovic Correspondent A rainy morning dampened everything but the spirits of Belleville High School’s Class of 2023, as the newest Buccaneer alumni walked from the school to Doc Ellis Field in a steady downpour to receive their diplomas on June 23.

Even with less than stellar weather, the stands at Municipal Stadium were packed with enthusiastic family and friends, ready to watch this year’s seniors throw their caps in the air.

“When I woke up this morning, I certainly didn’t think we would be walking out in a downpour,” BHS Principal Caleb Rhodes said to open the ceremony. “But it will make for a memorable moment for everyone. I’m glad we could have all the graduates’ loved ones with us rather than having to go inside with only two tickets for each family.”

Class of 2023 President Carmela Urbano said in her speech during the ceremony that she decided to get involved in extracurricular activities when she started high school to help with her anxiety; Urbano played volleyball for the Buccaneers

and served as the yearbook’s editor in chief in addition to being class president.

“There were times when I sat in my room feeling scared and alone,” Urbano said. “There were times when I had no motivation to do homework, clean my room or even talk to my family.

In these times I felt small. I was a little girl in a dark room waiting for a bright light to shine on me.”

She said she tried out for the volleyball team and joined the Student Government Organization (SGO) to distract herself from feeling anxious.

“I was able to make new friends and learn many valuable lessons,” Urbano said. “There was one lesson in particular that changed the way I saw things. My volleyball coach, Mr. Spina, told me that it doesn’t matter when you lose or mess up, what matters is what you make of it. You can cry about losing a game or making a mistake, but nothing good will come out of it unless you make a change yourself. I applied this advice to many things in my life. Instead of seeing extracurriculars as a distraction, I See VALEDICTORIAN, Page 23

2 — July 2023 — Nutley Journal - BP

Local students doing well in college The following are some local residents doing noteworthy things while attending college.

Alexis Merritt, of Nutley, a Class Emily De Angelo of Nutley, was of 2023 professional writing major at named to the Muhlenberg College York College of Pennsylvania, was Dean's List for the Spring 2023 semesnamed to the Spring 2023 Dean's List. ter.

Springfield College has named Cherylann Nicosia from Belleville, NJ to the dean's list for academic excellence for the 2023 spring semester.

Nicosia has a primary major of Psychology.

Burcin Tuncalp, of Nutley, gradElena Navarra of Nutley graduatuated from Quinnipiac University dured with a degree in special education from James Madison University during ing commencement ceremonies held in commencement exercises in May 2023. May, with a master of science, cyber security degree.

Jocelyn Hernandez, of Belleville received a bachelor of arts degree cum laude from College of the Holy Cross on May 26.

Gianna Mattia of Nutley has been Emily De Angelo of Nutley gradunamed to the Dean's List at East ated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvaof arts degree as a psychology major nia for the Spring 2023 semester of the from Muhlenberg College.

2022-2023 academic year.

The following students from Nutley graduated from The College of New Jersey on May 18-19: Skylar Hutchison, bachelor of science, communication studies, magna cum laude; Daniella La, bachelor of science, art and art history; Dana Slotterback, bachelor of science, art and art history.

Meghan Mackle of Belleville, earned a bachelor of science and master of science in occupational therapy at Alvernia University.

Paul Kazimier Poplawski of Nutley Named to Spring 2023 Dean's List at Kutztown University.

Jacqueline Rubino of Nutley has Shannon Granelli; Bella Guz- been named to the Spring 2023 Dean's man and Meghan Tran of Nutley List at the University of Rhode Island. made the Dean’s List at Bucknell University for the spring semester of the Kara Nitkowski of Nutley gradu2022-23 academic year. ated from Centenary University with a master of arts in school counseling.

The following Fairfield University students received Dean's List Honors Melanie Bumpus of Nutley was for the Spring 2023 semester: Claire named to The University of Alabama E. Brown and Kaitlin A. Peloso of Deans List for spring semester 2023.

Nutley.

Amanda McCullough and DenEthan Gaynor, of Nutley, gradu- nis Kirby Jr., both of Nutley, were ated with a bachelor of science, exer- named to the Dean’s List at Rochester cise physiology from Marquette Uni- Institute of Technology for the spring versity in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in semester of the 2022-2023 academic year.

May.

Belleville police will be hosting two events for residents The Belleville Police Department has two events coming up.

The first is Pizza With A Cop! on July 19 when the Community Relations Unit will be at Algeri's Pizza, at 502 Union Ave from 6 to 8 p.m. and offering a free slice of pizza to anyone interested.

People will be invited to share their thoughts, ask questions, voice concerns and have casual conversation with officers, according to a press release from the department, which said there will also be games, crafts and music.

The second event is National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 1, from 5 to 9 p.m.

Mayor Michael Melham, the Township Council and the police department will be host, the release said.

The event will be held at the Belleville High School Municipal Stadium and there will be music, games, bouncy rides, food trucks and more than 20 vendors plus a touch a truck experience, the release said.

National Night Out focuses on enhancing the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. This event is an opportunity to meet and greet your neighbors and local first responders.

Police also ask that anyone wishing to have a block party or gathering for National Night Out contact them at 973450-3348.

Belleville Post — July 2023 — 3

Council wants to stop mobs of bikers, ATVs

Belleville police in ‘Torch Run’

we offer a variety of

The Belleville Police Department participated in the 40th anniversary New Jersey Law Enforcement Torch Run. Officers Velazquez and Estrada represented the department and accepted the “Flame of Hope” while joining officers from the surrounding towns as they finished their leg of the run in Newark.

The run on June 9 featured more than 3,000 officers taking to the streets of their communities, split up into 26 separate legs with some starting as early as 4:45 a.m.

The run across the state is to raise awareness for Special Olympics New Jersey.

It precedes the Special Olympics New Jersey’s Summer Games, which took place on the College of New Jersey campus from June 9-11.

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Belleville police officers run in the NJ Law Enforcement Torch Run

The mayor and council are calling on state officials to relax directives that prohibit local law enforcement from engaging in vehicular pursuits, except in rare instances.

Specifically, the relaxation of directives adopted in 2020 would assist police in cracking down on a surge of illegal all-terrain vehicle and motorbike riders who are joyriding on public roads, according to a press release from the township.

Often riding in packs ranging from dozens to more than 100 in towns from Belleville to Paterson to Atlantic City, these riders pose a threat to themselves and law-abiding motorists, pedestrians and cyclists, township officials said.

“And they seem to especially enjoy taunting local police officers who are limited by directives to deal with these bad actors and do their stated job: keeping residents safe,” said Belleville Mayor Michael Melham.

A resolution passed at the Council meeting on June 27, says “neutering police officers and local departments, who want to perform their constitutional duties, is leading to not only increased public safety issues, but can be directly related to increased lawlessness in our once quiet communities.”

A copy of the resolution, which also calls for tougher penalties on these ATV and motorbike riders, is to be forwarded to Gov. Phil Murphy, Attorney General Matthew Platkin and the state Legislature.

"If dangerous ATVs and dirt bikes were

roaring by the governor's mansion in Middletown, day and night, you can bet this would be a top issue for the Attorney General, rather than directing our police departments to just blindly stand down,” Melham said. “So, because of the ongoing issue in Belleville along with many other suburban and urban communities, I must ask Governor Murphy: What's the difference?”

Belleville moved to pass the resolution after it became the latest municipality to see a surge in illegal ATV and motorbike use.

A disturbing video captured dozens of ATV and motorbike riders roaring down Washington Avenue. Many of them were recklessly riding as motorists hurried to move out of their way.

To minimize these incidents, several municipalities have adopted ordinances making it illegal for gas stations to fuel up ATVs and motorbikes at their pumps.

Melham said Belleville officials are also working on introducing a similar ordinance, but doesn’t think that it goes far enough.

“There’s only one thing that will help keep our roadways safe from these brazen bad actors, and that’s restoring the police’s ability to pursue and arrest them,” Melham said. “I hope our state officials realize the gravity of the situation. I hope it doesn’t take a horrific accident or the death of law-abiding motorists to realize we need to give police every chance to stop these riders.”

4 — July 2023 — Belleville Post

St. Peter’s parish holds Corpus Christi procession through town

Photos Courtesy of St. Peter’s Church

St. Peter’s Church held a Corpus Christi procession under beautiful skies on Sunday, June 11. Hundreds of parishioners from St. Peter’s Church and visitors from elsewhere expressed their devotion toward the Holy Eucharist during the annual procession. Corpus Christi processions began in the 14th century as a public profession of the Catholic faith.

They are held around the world and are quite elaborate in some European countries. In the picture above, members of different parish groups follow their banners in the parade down Williams Street. Above right, the monstrance holding the Eucharist is carried by Fr. Ivan Sciberras, pastor at St. Peter’s. A monstrance is a vessel specifically used to carry the consecrated eucharistic in processions. The central idea of the parade is to carry the Eucharist at the front of the parade. Behind are children who received their first communion this spring. Bottom right, Fr. Sciberras leads the congregation in prayer.

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6 — July 2023 — Belleville Post

Suburban Essex Chamber of Commerce awards 6 scholarships The Suburban Essex Chamber of Commerce Foundation has awarded six scholarships, two each from Bloomfield, Belleville, and Glen Ridge High Schools to the Class of 2023.

These awards are made possible by the support and generosity of chamber members, including Cecelia Polizzi & Provident Bank, Clara Maass Medical Center| RWJ Barnabas Health, Compass Self Storage, Joseph Berardinelli, CPA & Mario Drozdz, according to a press release from the Chamber.

The criteria for the scholarships are based on students' financial need, fall attendance at a college, university, or trade school with the intention to pursue a career that is business oriented and extracurricular and community activities, the Chamber said..

The application includes students grade point average, letters of recommendation, acceptance letter from the college of interest with a 500-word typed essay.

From left, are Ivan Perez, Belleville High School; Ava Vitali, Bloomfield,; Ava Leone, Glen Ridge; Kira Pipkins, Bloomfield; Cecelia Polizzi, Suburban Essex Chamber of Commerce Foundation chairperson Gabriel Springer, Glen Ridge and Jodi Perez, Belleville.

Photo courtesy of Donna M. Pietroiacovo

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Belleville’s American Legion SAL squad swears in new officers Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105 had its executive board and officers installed at the post home on Washington Avenue.

These officers were sworn in on Monday, June 12 by American Legion Essex County Executive Committee Adjutant Henry DelTosto, and will serve until June 2024.

Squadron Commander Steve Sangemino, as well as Adjutant and Finance Officer Rusty Myers, were both elected to their fifth terms as officers. First Vice Commander James Elsmore was elected to his second term, as was Joseph Florenza as sergeant-atarms.

All of the other officers were either elected or appointed to their first terms. The Squadron elected Second Vice Commander Vincent Ferriole and Third Vice Commander Richard Vlasakakis, and the commander appointed Anthony Noto as historian, Carl Slaughter as chaplain, and Robert Hildebrandt as service officer.

Squadron 105 had a banner year promoting the American Legion’s “Four Pillars” by putting more than $24,000 into projects serving veterans, the community, Americanism, and children and youth.

Photos Courtesy of Rusty Myers

Officers for the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105 are sworn into office.

From left, Service Officer Robert Hildebrandt, Chaplain Carl Slaughter, Sgt-at-Arms Joe Florenza, Commander Steve Sangemino, Adjutant and Finance Officer Rusty Myers, 1st Vice Commander James Elsmore, 2nd Vice Commander Vinnie Ferriole, 3rd Vice Commander Richard Vlasakakis, and Historian Tony Noto stand together at the Post.

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8 — July 2023 — Nutley Journal - BP

Elks Club has a Duck Race planned for mid-September The Kearny-Belleville Elks have scheduled an Incredible Duck Race for Saturday, Sept. 16.

The event is free and will include live music, vendors, food trucks, a beer garden and more, according to a press release from the Elks Club.

Money raised through the Duck Race fundraiser helps to support Elks Club programs including scholarships, winter coats and books to children in need, furniture and household supplies to veterans transitioning from homelessness and care packages for patients at the East Orange veterans hospital.

For more information, check out www.INCREDIBLEDUCKRACE.com.

Belleville Historical Society members Emman Ramaos-Jaramillo and Cody Weng at Glendale Cemetery clean the gravestones of soldiers killed during World War II.

Historical Society restores and cleans gravestones of veterans Members of the Belleville Historical Society spent several months restoring military and veteran monuments in Belleville and six other neighboring towns.

In the Veterans Circle in Glendale

Cemetery in Bloomfield where 4,500 veterans are buried, the Society identified and cleaned the gravestones of almost 300 soldiers who were killed in World War II, Korea and Vietnam.

Memorials have also been restored in

Nutley, Kearny, Newark, Passaic and Montclair. The projects have ranged from restoring the gravestones of those killed in action to bronze plaques and life size statues. For additional information visit bellevillehistory.org.

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The American Legion Post 105 family, including the Legion’s veterans, the Sons of the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary, sent a contingent to Wildwood to participate in the state convention. Here they are just before a parade that is part of the event.

Belleville dominates American Legion convention in Wildwood The American Legion Post 105 Family put Belleville’s name at the forefront of the state at this year’s 2023 American Legion Department of New Jersey Convention in Wildwood.

The Post family is made up of the American Legion’s veterans, the Sons of the American Legion (SAL), and the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA). SAL Squadron 105 received multiple awards for its veterans in categories that included Americanism, Children and Youth Programs and had one of its own – Adjutant Rusty Myers – named as the Detachment of NJ’s 2022-23 Son of the Year.

Each year during the second week in June, people from American Legion posts around New Jersey gather in Wildwood for a state-wide convention. The convention sessions themselves are only two days, but events precede and follow those days of votes with receptions, parades, and “get togethers.”

Three years ago Belleville’s SAL Squadron 105 attended its first convention, which the post hadn’t participated in for more than two decades.

“This all started with three of us,” said SAL 105 Squadron Commander Stave Sangemino, pointing out that in that first year only three Sons made the trek to the shore. The second year, there were about 15 and this year, 60 members of the Post family participated in the Wildwood Convention.

On Saturday, the 105 proudly marched Belleville’s name down Atlantic Avenue in the Department Parade. Members of the Post color guard made the one-and-a-half mile march, carrying the five flags and dressed in the familiar white stars and stripes uniforms residents of Belleville see at many town events. Many also wore custom T-shirts that said; “105 IN THE HOUSE” Following behind a brand-new Post 105 American Legion Family of Belleville banner were cars and 20-plus members marching and waving American flags.

The convention included meetings on topics relevant to veterans.

Linda Doris, who is a member of the Belleville Legion Auxiliary Unit which just chartered in January, wrote on Facebook that this was her “…First time walking in a Veteran's Parade representing the Belleville Auxiliary. What an awesome and moving experience!”

The convention also gives the state an opportunity to tally up the accomplishments of all of the local and county organizations across the Legion Family. This tabulation, aside from giving national headquarters a precise idea of what the contributions from New Jersey are, also gives the state leadership an opportunity to recognize those posts, units, and squadrons which have excelled in running some of their own programs.

The Post came away with a membership award for going “over the top,” meaning they grew in membership this year.

The Squadron received first place for membership growth in the state as well, See BELLEVILLE, Page 10

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10 — July 2023 — Belleville Post

Belleville’s Post 105 makes its presence known in Wildwood

(Continued from Page 9) going from 62 to 126 members since last June.

SAL 105 also walked away with plaques for second place in the internal affairs category, giving almost $6,000 back to their home post and its veterans; second place in the state for Americanism donations; third place in Americanism hours worked, putting in more than $8,500 in Americanism projects; and finally in the Children and Youth category, where they received Photos Courtesy of Rusty Myers third place with almost $7,000 going to Top left, Post members at the convention with a few of the awards they kids. received. Top right and above left, marching in the parade. Above right, Perhaps most noteworthy, one of 1st Vice Commander James Elsmore shows off his shirt.

Belleville’s Sons received the prestigious 2022-23 Son of the Year Award. The award is given annually to one Son in New Jersey, out of the almost 10,000 members in the state.

The award was presented to SAL 105 Adjutant Rusty Myers, who also serves in representing Essex County at the state level, as well as serving as the Detachment of NJ chairman of the Children and Youth Commission.

“I’m proud to stand among the caliber of men who have received this award

T LA

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before,” said Myers in accepting the award. “This is for all of our veterans, which is why we do what we do everyday.”

As well as an inscribed clock for Son of the Year given as a token of recognition for the time given to the organization, he also received the Detachment Commander’s Award for “outstanding dedication to the American Legion Family.”

Myers is the second Son in three years from 105 who received this award. Steve Sanegmino, 105’s Squadron Commander, received the award in 2020-21.

“Two recipients from the same place is quite an honor for Belleville,” said Myers.

Social media throughout the week was flooded with fun pictures of members in Wildwood smiling and having a good time. The 105’s homebase for the week was the Skylark Motel on Atlantic Avenue, which has a rooftop overlooking Wildwoods main boulevard.

The hotel was decked out in banners with the message “Vietnam Veterans – Welcome Home” which was the theme of this year’s parade, plus flags, lights, and more banners with the message of “105 in the House.”

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Nutley Journal - BP — July 2023 — 11

For Juneteenth, Historical Society cleans gravestones of ex-slaves, Civil War soldiers The Belleville Historical Society observed Juneteenth in Belleville, Bloomfield and Montclair by cleaning gravestones. In Bloomfield and Montclair the gravestones of three individuals who were born into and had lived as slaves were cleaned and decorated.

Luvenia and Joseph Lloyd were slaves on a plantation in Barbara County, Alabama when they were married. They eventually moved north and lived in East Orange and are buried at Bloomfield Cemetery on Belleville Avenue.

Anthony Thompson was a slave in the household of Dr. Samuel Ward in Montclair. After being freed he moved to West

Orange and he is buried in Rosedale Cemetery in Montclair.

At St. Peter Cemetery in Belleville a team of young church volunteers cleaned the gravestones of all of the Union Army veterans buried there. More than 350,000 Union Army soldiers died in the war which brought an end to slavery.

Juneteenth commemorates the day, June 19, 1865, when Union Army Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas with 2,000 soldiers and announced the end of slavery in the rebellious southern states. Ironically slavery would continue that year in New Jersey until the end of December.

Photos Courtesy of Belleville Historical Society

Gathered around the grave of Civil War soldier John Barrett are, from left, are volunteers from St. Peter's, Emily Serrano, Johsselyn Pacheco, Ariana Negron, Michael Perrone, Noah Munoz, Mason Munoz, Joshua Talban and Nicholas Petrillo

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Above, Michael Perrone, Belleville Historical Society president, cleans the gravestone of Anthony Thompson. Below, The gravestone of Luvenda and Joseph Lloyd who were born as slaves in Alabama but moved to East Orange and were buried in Bloomfield.

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Pictured on the right is Maya Herrera-Shimokawa with fellow musicians Avi Webber and Kimaya Sayles and Montclair Early Music Director Julienne Pape on the left.

Photo Courtesy of Montclair Early Music

Belleville student plays recorder at Boston Early Music Festival A Belleville elementary school student performed alongside students from around the world at Jordan Hall in Boston for the Boston Early Music Festival on June 11.

“We came all the way to Boston,” said Maya Herrera-Shimokawa who attends Belleville Elementary School 5. “It was

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awesome to play in such a big concert hall with people from Brazil, The Netherlands, and all over the world in front of a big audience.”

Maya was part of Montclair Early Music’s RecorderKids program. The organization performs regularly in concert with adult musicians, according to a press release from the organization.

“I’m delighted that our young musicians are able to participate in this international event,” said Julienne Pape, founder and artistic director of Montclair Early Music. “What a wonderful experience for them. It’s our third year of participating in Boston Early Music’s Youth Program. During the pandemic, the festival was done virtually, and finally, this

year, the children were able to play in person. Our mission is to give ALL children the opportunity to play an instrument.

The recorder has a long history. It is part of every culture and there is a huge repertoire of music for recorders. It’s a lot more than ‘Hot Cross Buns’.”

MEM offers free and low cost lessons for adults and children. The program is partially funded by Investors Bank Foundation and the American Recorder Society. For more information about the Summer Camp and Fall after-school programs, send an email to info@montclairearlymusic.org.

Montclair Early Music is a nonprofit organization comprising amateur and professional musicians of all ages.

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Nutley Journal - BP — July 2023 — 13

County plans concerts, some with fireworks, during summertime The 2023 Essex County Free Summer Music Concert Series will feature a diverse group of musicians and entertainers performing at locations throughout the county park system.

This year’s series features three concert and fireworks spectaculars, five concerts in Brookdale Park, 12 concerts throughout the county, and four cultural festivals, according to a press release from the county.

“Pack a blanket, enjoy the cool evening breeze, and dance to the sounds of classical, rock and roll, jazz, big band, Latin and more. We have an amazing line-up that is sure to entertain and impress,” said Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. The SummerMusic Concert Series is sponsored by Rose Squared Productions and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey. The series is also made possible, in part, by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State.

Over the course of 12 weeks this summer, there will be 24 different events fea-

turing local and international acts in jazz, rock and roll, big band, reggae and more.

Some of the concerts took place in June.

Concerts are held at accessible sites.

Persons who require special accommodations or assistance are asked to call at least two weeks prior to the concert to alert staff as to their needs. Admission to the concerts is free. For more information, call the Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs at 973‑268-3500.

The remaining 2023 concert series schedule is as follows: • Friday, July 7, at 7:30 p.m. in Brookdale Park in Bloomfield/Montclair: 80s vs. 90s.

• Saturday, July 8, from 12 noon to 8 p.m. in Monte Irvin Orange Park, Orange: Jazz and Food Truck Festival.

• Tuesday, July 11, at 7 p.m. in Watsessing Park, Bloomfield: Epic Soul.

• Wednesday, July 12, at 7 p.m. in Ivy Hill Park in Newark: Casplash.

• Friday, July 14, at 7:30 p.m. in Brookdale Park in Bloomfield/Montclair: The Duprees.

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• Tuesday, July 18, at 7 p.m. in Vailsburg Park in Newark: Smooth.

• Wednesday, July 19, at 7 p.m. in Riverfront Park in Newark: Afri-Carib.

• Friday, July 21, at 7:30 p.m. in Brookdale Park in Bloomfield/Montclair: Frontiers: Country Music Night with Kickin’ Nash.

• Tuesday, July 25, at 7 p.m. in Cedar Grove Park, Cedar Grove: Stan Zizka’s Del-Satins.

• Wednesday, July 26th at 7 p.m.in Grover Cleveland Park in Caldwell/Essex Fells: Here’s Elton.

• Friday, July 28, at 7:30 p.m. in Brookdale Park in Bloomfield/Montclair: Launch Band: A Tribute to Styx, Queen and Boston.

• Wednesday, Aug. 2, at 7 p.m. in Belleville Park in Belleville: New Power Soul.

• Friday, Aug. 4, at 7:30 p.m. in Brookdale Park in Bloomfield/Montclair: Event Horizon.

• Saturday, Aug. 5, from 12 noon to 8 p.m. in Monte Irvin Orange Park in

Orange: Caribbean Festival.

• Friday, Aug. 11, at 7:30 p.m. in Eagle Rock Reservation in West Orange: K Brown Express.

• Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, August 2, from 12 noon to 8 p.m. in Monte Irvin Orange Park in Orange: Latino Festival.

Revolutionary War website (Continued from Page 10) sey. Essex County is featured prominently, with photos and write-ups for more than 30 historic sites, located in towns such as Belleville, Nutley, Orange, and West Orange.

Frazza said he is responsible for all of the research, writing, and photography on the website, created over thousands of hours between 2009 and 2017. Frazza has also published a book about the years he spent exploring New Jersey’s history, titled “State of Revolution: My SevenAnd-A-Half-Year Journey Through Revolutionary War New Jersey.”

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14 — July 2023 — Nutley Journal - BP

Rail trail through Essex County takes steps toward realization The Greenway project that will turn a long-dormant 8.63-mile rail line that runs through Essex County into a linear park recently took another step forward with the awarding of some bids.

The trail will traverse Essex and Hudson Counties, averaging 100 feet in width and encompassing approximately 135 acres. The Greenway passes through numerous, diverse commercial, industrial, and residential neighborhoods in eight New Jersey communities including Montclair, Glen Ridge, Bloomfield, Belleville, Newark, Kearny, Secaucus, and Jersey City, and crossing both the Hackensack and Passaic Rivers in the process.

Last month, the state Department of Environmental Protection awarded four work orders to consultant firms to assist the state with the planning, design, and development activities. Work is to be completed by Aug. 18 or Sept.1, depending on the task.

The work orders seek to further certain planning and design activities to facilitate the creation of comprehensive master planning and detailed design documents for the development of the 9-mile abandoned rail corridor, according to information from DEP. The Department is seeking proposals for an initial community and stakeholder engagement plan and development of recommendations for the phased development of the Greenway, specifically

focused on identification of the largest feasible contiguous portion of the Greenway appropriate for immediate development for public use to maximize value delivered to the public during development of the comprehensive Master Plan, the DEP said.

The Department is also seeking proposals for a safety and security needs assessment which will inform the development of detailed recommendations, including costs, for short-term, interim steps the Department should take to address public safety and security of the Greenway prior to the development of the comprehensive Master Plan.

Also, DEP is soliciting quotes to assess and design stormwater management infrastructure for integration in a manner that benefits its host communities by increasing capture of existing stormwater and decreasing excessive discharge rates during major storm events.

With over 7,850 residents per square mile – approximately 1.5 million people in the surrounding area – the Greenway seeks to provide outdoor recreation and alternative transportation opportunities to over 16 percent of New Jersey’s population.

The Greenway project seeks to create a linear multi-modal recreational and transit corridor enabling seamless walking, biking and transit opportunities between Montclair and Jersey City, while serving See TRAIL, Page 15

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Access Link users can utilize Lyft, Uber NJ Transit is partnering with Uber and Lyft on a pilot program allowing Access Link users to opt in to receiving rides through the two services.

The goal of this pilot program, called the Access Link Riders’ Choice Pilot Program, is to reduce wait and trip times while maintaining Access Link prices and the reservation process to which customers are accustomed.

“The Riders’ Choice Pilot Program will improve Access Link reliability, while offering additional transportation options to customers of this crucial service,” said New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner and NJ TRANSIT Board Chair Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti.

With this new partnership, Uber and Pictured here is an area of the greenway that will be turned from an Lyft drivers will now be available to supunused railroad bed into a trail for biking, hiking and other uses. plement Access Link services as needed only if the customer opts in to utilize the pilot program, according to a press release muters a way to bypass some of New Jer- from NJ Transit.

(Continued from Page 14) Customers who do not opt into the as a catalyst for environmental improve- sey’s most congested roadways. ments and economic development in the The Greenway passes near the Newark pilot program will continue to have all of adjacent communities. light rail and NJ Transit’s Frank R. Laut- their trips serviced by the current Access It stands to become a destination unto enberg Secaucus Junction train station, Link providers. Participation in the pilot itself as a place for exercise, recreation which provide direct access to New York’s program is strictly voluntary. and access to the great outdoors. The DEP Penn Station. Currently the Greenway is Prior to scheduling a trip, Access Link anticipates that the project will spur new an undeveloped nine-mile piece of land customers in the Riders’ Choice Pilot Proenterprises and support existing business- that is closed to public access. Closure is gram must update their profile to indicate es in areas in need of economic growth necessary for public safety, to allow the which rideshare service, Uber or Lyft, they and redevelopment.

Department to complete remediation and would like to use. Customers also have The Greenway will connect residents to clean up while we undertake a public the option to indicate they have no preferparks, schools, hospitals, and business planning process for park improvements, ence and are willing to utilize both districts, in addition to offering com- DEP said. providers, the release said.

Trail will go from Montclair to Jersey City

Access Link is NJ TRANSIT's American with Disabilities Act (ADA) paratransit program established to provide public transportation to people with disabilities who are unable to utilize local bus services.

Use of the Uber or Lyft app is not necessary, and customers will not be required to contact either company directly. The determination to dispatch Uber or Lyft in lieu of an Access Link vehicle will be made based upon the best available scheduling option.

The pilot program has begun in Essex, Morris, Union and other counties. Further details on potential expansion will be announced at a future date.

The area covered by Access Link is comparable to NJ TRANSIT's Local Fixed Route bus system. The service can be used to travel to any destination – for any reason – as long as the origin and destination are within the Access Link service area.

Because Access Link is a “shared ride” service, other customers may be picked up during a scheduled ride if their location is on the way to the requested destination.

“By adding Uber and Lyft as travel options, we will improve the Access Link travel experience for our customers while making it more cost effective for NJ Transit,” said NJ TRANSIT President and CEO Kevin S. Corbett.

Jen Shepherd, global head of transit at Uber said the partnership with NJ TRANSIT will help cut down on wait time and improve reliability for Access Link riders.

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16 — July 2023 — Nutley Journal - BP

healthy living Blood and platelets urgently needed this summer An urgent appeal for blood and platelet donations has been made to deal with a serious shortage at hospitals throughout the state.

Life-saving blood and platelet donations are given to patients in a wide range of circumstances including cancer care, trauma events such as car accidents and home accidents, childbirth and mass casualty events.

Historically, inventories of blood and platelets drop during the summer months when donors are on vacation or busy with family activities. With schools and colleges closed there are less large group opportunities to give blood, depleting the blood supply greatly.

Although the need for blood, especially Type O, is large, the need for single donor platelets is expected to reach critical levels by the end of June and continue throughout the summer. Many cancer patients depend on platelet transfusions to help them regain their strength, fight infections, and recover from cancer treatment as well as to prevent life-threatening hemorrhages if platelet levels drop too low.

Some patients, especially those who have had a bone marrow transplant or

who are being treated for leukemia, may require daily platelet transfusions for several weeks.

“Donations have slowed down, and hospitals are in dire need of blood and platelets now that school is out and people are heading out on summer vacations,” said Sally Wells, Business Development and Community Liaison for Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital’s (RWJUH) Blood Donor Center.

“Last year, cancer patients treated throughout the system required roughly 25,000 units of platelets for necessary transfusions. Blood and platelets can’t be manufactured, they can only come from donations. Every donation is important, and by taking the time to donate blood or platelets you’re able to help those who desperately need it.”

Here’s how you can donate: Schedule an appointment at a fixed site Donor Rooms: RWJBarnabas Health has two fixed locations, one at RWJUH in New Brunswick, located on the 4th floor of the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Clinical Academic Building (CAB) at 125 Paterson Street in New Brunswick,

and one at RWJUH Somerset, located at 110 Rehill Avenue in Somerville. Both Donor Centers are open Monday - Friday and select Saturdays.

To further encourage donations, there are special summer giveaways being held at the RWJUH Donor Center in New Brunswick such as $10 gift cards for blood donors and $20 gift cards for platelet donors as a thank you gift. Also, t-shirts and entry into bi-weekly raffles to win a family fun package to Jenkinson’s Pavilion in Point Pleasant Beach are available. Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset is offering $10 gift cards to all type O blood and platelet donors. Additionally, they are offering raffle drawings monthly for a $25 ShopRite gift card.

To make an appointment at a fixed RWJUH Donor Room or to find a blood drive location near you, please visit: https://www.rwjuhdonorclub.org. or call 732-235-8100 ext. 221.

There is also a drive scheduled at the Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center on Thursday, Aug. 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Islami Auditorium Side B, 94 Old Short Hills Road, Livingston NJ

Red Cross blood drives this summer The American Red Cross has blood drives scheduled at the following locations and times: Monday, July 10, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Cambria Hotel West Orange, 12 Rooney Circle, West Orange.

Tuesday, July 18, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., Nutley Masonic Lodge 25, 175 Chestnut St., Nutley.

Thursday, July 20,from 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Montclair Community Church, 143 Watchung Ave. Saturday, Aug. 5, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Millburn High School, 462 Millburn Ave. Millburn.

Monday, Aug. 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Cambria Hotel West Orange, 12 Rooney Circle, West To give blood, go to RedCrossBlood.org, select the appropriate event and make an appointment.

If you don’t feel well on the day of your donation, please call to cancel.

You may be deferred from donating blood or platelets if you have lived in or traveled to a malaria-risk country in the past three years.

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Nutley Journal - BP — July 2023 — 17

healthy living Hospital exec. is ‘CEO to Know’ How to control asthma when air is bad A hospital executive at Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville has been recognized by Becker’s as “2023 Women Presidents and CEOs to Know.”

This list showcases the female hospital presidents and CEOs who are expanding access to care, promoting inclusivity and diversity, spearheading new initiatives, and helping to close the gender gap in healthcare leadership, according to a press release from RWJBarnabas, which said it had three honorees on the list including: Mary Ellen Clyne, president, and CEO of Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville. As president and CEO, she oversees all initiatives supporting the delivery of patient care, financial stability, strategic planning, capital improvements, renovations, new construction, quality, performance improvement, patient experience, patient safety and community relations for the medical center.

Clyne has been recognized with a wide array of awards and recognitions such as the Ecuador American Chamber of Commerce, the Township of Bloomfield, the Belleville Township and the Nutley Board

of Commissioners.

Recently, Clyne received an Outstanding Heroes Award from Luis A. Quintana, council president/councilman-at-large in Newark.

Nancy DiLiegro, president and CEO for RWJBarnabas Health Trinitas Regional Medical Center in Elizabeth. DiLiegro is responsible for ensuring high-quality care delivery to thousands of patients each day.

Deanna Sperling, RN. President and CEO of RWJBarnabas Health Behavioral Health Center in Toms River. Under her leadership, the system’s behavioral health services place an emphasis on training staff to deliver trauma-informed care and treatment, in which patients are asked what has happened to them, rather than what is wrong, a shift that underscores respect, kindness and compassion for all.

“I am proud of these three visionary leaders for the work they do every day to deliver exceptional care to the communities we serve,” said Mark E. Manigan, President and CEO of RWJBarnabas Health. “This recognition from Becker’s is well deserved.”

(StatePoint) Asthma, a lung disease that makes breathing difficult for over 24 million Americans, is often exacerbated by air pollution and the effects of climate change.

However, understanding how the environment impacts asthma can help you minimize your exposure to air pollutants and prepare for extreme weather events.

The American Lung Association is offering these important insights: 1. Outdoor Air Pollution. While outdoor air pollution can make breathing more difficult for everyone, it’s particularly harmful to those with asthma, causing symptoms and increased need for medical attention, and to children, whose lungs are still growing and who breathe in more air per pound than adults.

2. Climate Change. The effects of climate change increase air pollutants like ozone, particle pollution pollens, molds from increased rainfall and floods and smoke from wildfires. Smog acts like a sunburn on your lungs and may trigger an asthma attack. Before doing any activities outside, check the pollution level in your area by visiting Airnow.gov.

3. Wildfires. In some areas of the coun-

try, climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of wildfires, and extending wildfire season. Wildfires produce smoke that contains particle pollution, consisting of dangerous particles tiny enough to travel deep into the lungs and sometimes even into the bloodstream.

To get your asthma under control, check out the American Lung Association’s many resources, found at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asthma, which align with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s official EXHALE strategies.

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18 — July 2023 — Belleville Post

SPORTS

Belleville Varsity Club honors senior athletes

During a ceremony last month, the Belleville Varsity Club honored senior student-athletes from the Belleville High School fall, winter and spring teams. It was a glorious way to commemorate the end of another prosperous BHS athletic school year.

Gerber Coreas, at left, and Ashley Cely, at right, were named the Belleville Varsity Club Athletes of the Year. With them is Belleville athletic director Marcellino Marra. Coreas lettered in soccer. Cely lettered in volleyball, basketball and softball.

Photos Courtesy of BHS Athletics

Nutley Journal - BP — July 2023 — 19

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT To place your free listing, send information to the editor at essexcty@thelocalsource.com or at 1291 Stuyvesant Ave., Union, NJ 07083. Faxes may be sent to 908-686-0401.

COMEDY LADIES OF LAUGHTER, “The Funny & Fabulous Tour,” on July 27 at 7:30 p.m. This night of hilarity will feature 2016 Ladies of Laughter Newcomer winner, Jocelyn Chia, and 2012 Ladies of Laughter winner, Robin Fox., South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

COMEDIAN SHANE GILLIS BRINGS HIS “SHANE GILLIS LIVE” TOUR TO NJPAC on Friday, July 28 at 7 p.m. NJPAC, Prudential Hall, One Center St. Tickets: $39 to $49.

THE EMMY-NOMINATED TV SHOW “WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY?” on Friday, Oct. 13, at 8 p.m. at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, One Center Street, Newark. “Whose Live Anyway?” is 90 minutes of improvised comedy and song based on audience suggestions. Cast members are Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Jeff B. Davis, and Joel Murray. Tickets are on sale at NJPAC.org or available by calling 888.

GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722) or by visiting the NJPAC Box Office at 1 Center Street, Newark.

Tickets: $39.50 - $99.

LADIES OF LAUGHTER, “The Funny & Fabulous Tour” on Oct. 19, at 7:30 p.m., , South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

A LIVE CONVERSATION WITH CHEVY CHASE FOLLOWING A SCREEN OF CHRISTMAS VACATION on Friday, Dec. 15 at 8 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark.

Tickets: $39.50-$95.50.

LECTURES AN EVENING WITH GRAMMY AWARD WINNING SOUL STORYTELLER ANTHONY

HAMILTON AT NEW JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER on Thursday, Sept. 7 at 8 p.m.

NJPAC, Prudential Hall, One Center St., Newark.

NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON: THIS JUST IN: LATEST DISCOVERIES IN THE UNIVERSE at NJPAC on Nov. 30, at 7:30 p.m. A thought-provoking evening with astrophysicist, professor, and author Neil deGrasse Tyson of the Hayden Planetarium. Tyson will discuss how a “cosmic perspective” profoundly influences what we think and feel about science, culture, politics, and life.

NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St. Newark.

Tickets are $39.50 to $99.50 and are on sale now at NJPAC.org, 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722) or by visiting the NJPAC Box Office at 1 Center Street, Newark, New Jersey..

MUSIC DENI BONET AND CHRIS FLYNN WILL BE PERFORMING AT THE BLOOMFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY ON JULY 8 AT 2 P.M. Bonet is a singer/songwriter and virtuoso violinist while Flynn is an accomplished guitarist, according to a press release from the library, which said that together they play quirky melodic and fun folk rock for all ages. The library is located at 90 Broad St. in Bloomfield.

THE WEST ORANGE COMMUNITY BAND will play its first summer concert of 2023 on Tuesday, July 11 in the Clipper Pavilion, Cherry Lane, South Mountain Reservation in West Orange.

Rain location: Liberty Middle School. The summer concert theme is “Summer Travels” featuring music from across the country and around the world.

REVOLUTIONARY WORLD MUSIC ENSEMBLE SHAKTI WILL CONTINUE TO DISCOVER AND EXPLORE THE MUSICAL COMMONGROUND BRIDGING EAST AND WEST at NJPAC on Sunday, Aug. 20, at 8 p.m.. Tickets can be purchased by visiting njpac.org, calling 888-466-5722 or visiting the NJPAC box office at 1 Center St. in Newark.

AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH THE GRAMMY AWARD WINNING GLADYS KNIGHT on Sunday, Nov. 12, at 7 p.m. NJPAC Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St. Newark.

Tickets range from $49.50 to $129.50 and are available at: www.NJPAC.org.

HORIZON SOUNDS OF THE CITY 2023, A FREE LIVE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES TAKING PLACE UNDER THE STARS during the summer every Thursday Night starting July 13 and running through Aug. 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. on the NJPAC Campus at Chambers Plaza, 1 Center St. Newark.

On July 13, DJ FELIX HERNANDEZ kicks off NJPAC's Horizon Sounds of the City with his annual Rhythm Revue Dance Party; On July 20, THE SUGARHILL GANG; On July 27, NEWARK SALUTES ITS OWN in a talent showcase featuring local artists from each ward; On Aug. 3, EDGAR JOEL AND ANTHONY COLÓN, who made their debut on salsa scene in the ‘90s, with songs like “En las Nubes,” “Hasta El Sol De Hoy,” and “Hechizo De Luna.”

On Aug. 10, KURTIS BLOW, considered one of the most influential Founding Fathers of Hip Hop, will take to the stage.

On Aug. 17, KINDRED THE FAMILY SOUL who will share their explosive music of positivity wrapped in a funky, neo-classic soul sound.

JOURNEYMAN, “A Tribute to Eric Clapton,” Sept. 15 at 8 p.m. Fronted by guitar virtuoso Shaun Hague, with Robert Monroe, Darius Petersen, Dina Bach, and Brandon Stephens, Journeyman covers all Eric Clapton classics, South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

PEDRITO MARTÍNEZ GROUP, “Echoes of Africa,” Sept, 30 at 8 p.m. Pedrito Martínez is a master of Afro-Cuban rumba and Yoruba traditions, South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

DAMN THE TORPEDOES, a “Tom Petty Concert Experience” on Oct. 6, at 8 p.m. Led by guitarist Rich Kubicz, Damn The Torpedoes honors legendary artist Tom Petty, South Orange Perform-

ing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

AN EVENING WITH KAKI KING, Oct. 7 at 8 p.m.

Kaki King continues to live at the forefront of guitarists and performance makers, , South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

THE WEEKLINGS, “The Music of The Beatles & More” on Oct. 13 at 8 p.m., South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, box office (973) 313-2787.

THEATER “SPRING AWAKENING,” A COMING-OF-AGE ROCK MUSICAL WITH MUSIC BY DUNCAN SHEIK AND BOOK AND LYRICS BY STEVEN SATER, will be performed at the Vanguard Theater in Montclair. The show is scheduled to run to July 16, Thursdays through Sundays with two shows on Sundays. Tickets: $35 and up, including fees. Purchase: bit.ly/ticketsVTC or by emailing the Vanguard Theater box office at boxoffice@dreamvtc.org Recommended for ages 12 and over as themes include suicide, abortion and sexual awakening.

AWARD-WINNING WRITER JOSEPH VITALE’S “SUNSET PARK” —kicks off the Summer Season July 6-16 at the Theater Project, Burgdorff Cultural Center, 10 Durand Road, Maplewood. Tickets are available online at TheTheaterProject.org or by calling the box office, 908-809-8865 KALEIDOSCOPE KABARET, SONGS AND SHORT PLAYS FROM THE THEATER PROJECT’S PLAYWRIGHTS WORKSHOP AND YOUNG PLAYWRIGHTS COMPETITION, July 28-30. Theater Project, Burgdorff Cultural Center, 10 Durand Road, Maplewood. Show times are Thursday-Saturday at 8 p.m. with a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee. Single ticket prices are $32 for general admission, $25 for seniors and students.

Senior Sunday prices—the first Sunday of each play performance—are $20.

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20 — July 2023 — Belleville Post

Photo by Amanda Valentovic

Belleville High School students declared graduates throw their caps in the air at the conclusion of the graduation ceremony in Municipal Stadium.

Belleville High School’s Class of 2023 grads The Belleville High School Class of 2023: Mikaela Tatiana Andrade Bianca Rosibel Reyes Victor Pham Xin Ying Pan Brandon Do Terry Li Jonathan David Ingles Jaime Cruz Alejandro III Adriana McCarthy Aleckxis Lingad Kayla Michelle Moto Ana Alvarado Youssef Raafat Ibrahim Ivan Perez Pavly Tawadrous Catalina Cucaz Franklin Gabriel Isabella Marie Aguilar Anthony Alexander Calle Ashley Patrica Cely Karen Coto Alba Iliana Guerra Kaitlyn Lauer Anais Dessiree Perez-Fabian Jason Matthew Poveda Karissa Remata Jennifer Romero Brianna Nicole Santos Carina Lee Sommer Michael Tarazona Jodi Velez Fernando David Abambari Hoor Ali Abdulbaqi Debora Abreu Omar Evangelio Agosto

Mateo Sebastian Aguilar Espinoza Matthew Aguirre Adonys Misael Aguirre-Landy Kianysha Ajila Nicholas Aleksashvili Melrich Destin Rue Amante Michelle Armijos Camila Nicole Arteaga Sofia Mirelis Arteaga Tesai Ahmad Ashby Merrick Sean Dalupang Atienza Mario Angelo Baez Caylen Baldwin Ryan Banach Adam Barrios Joel Alejandro Basantes Cristopher Adrian Bermeo Benavides Michael Biondi Troy Lee Birks Stephen Bishara Brandon Borrero Brianna Borrero Joseph Christopher Bruzzi MariaJose Bucheli Ricardo Adrian Buenano Kyle Caitlyn Ramos Caancan Ivanna Mariela Caballero Julian Ro-En Cadalin Christopher Calle Jermiah Camacho Anthony Gabrielle Campos Leslie Campoverde Javier Candelaria Juan David Canete Emely Lissbeth Cardenas Brenda Castro Kathleen Castro Liliana Andrea Castro

Mark Christian Castro Brian Humberto Chabla Andre Chalet Valerie Vanessa Chaves Ismael Cisneros Nathan Alexander Cohen Fernando Collado Rebeca Judith Coloma Riera Victoria Competiello Leslie Aileen Contreras-Arenillas Gerber Coreas Yeni Karina Coreas Rodriguez Ryan Xavier Correa Rodriguez Axl Martin Cortez John Paul Crespo Dyanara Criado Jeylian Cruz Kaylin Luz Cruz George Edward Cruz-Medina James Dabajo Gianna Lea DaSilva Jamielynn Dave Adrianna Davis Gabriela Anahi De La Torre Michael Delvecchio Zahra Dhalla Clara Luz Diaz Fermin Adelene Sahiris Diaz Tejeda Kiara Diaz-Galloso Ryan Dong Angelo Salas Dorainvil Mia Duarte Nunez Selena Nichole Dunbar Jabari Akil Earnest Johan Manuel Ero Rosario Jeff Escate Martin Nicolas Escobar Sisalima Andres Ignacio Espinosa

Diane Stephanie Estrada Lenise Marie Estrada Evan Ajani Evering Amelia Jarin Fabara Ah’Mia Karime Feliciano Karey Carolina Fermin Sterling Jesus Fernandez Danna Naomi Fierro Chacon Angel Isaiah Figueroa Kiara Lee Figueroa Melodie Joy Figueroa Isak Nicolas Flores Jackson Flores Xavier Fontanez Lauren Amelia Fox Sabrina Frisoli Adriana Galarza Ivan Javier Garcia Mathew Raymier Garcia-Abreu Emily Cristina Gavidia Alexzandria Gavin Josiah Gerard German Abel Geronimo Shavir Matthew Godoy Gabriel Gomez Brianna Leigh Gonzalez Yanelly Mariah Gonzalez Christian Andrew Gonzalez Ajani Gordon Daniela Gracias Vivian Michelle Grajales Julia Madison Gray Erick Joel Guaba Raysa Veronica Guaman Lala Joseph Guancione Dylan Guerrero Jonathan Siraj Gwendasammy See CLASS, Page 21

Belleville Post— July 2023 — 21

Class president says BHS helped her learn you make your own sunshine (Continued from Page 20) Elijah Royel Hannon Kavaughn Jafar Henry Christian Anderson Hernandez Evelyn Jadeliz Hernandez Jamie Desiree Hernandez Madelyn Hernandez Sheileen H. Hernandez Tayshaun Louis Holland Avinash Kris Hosein Camila Alexandra Huajan Farid Antonio Inciso Roncal Matthew Jagroop Samantha Jagroop Brandon Jara-Loja Laxmi Kanda Ayden Connor Karim Asif Khan Caryean Knights Logan Kutlu Carlos Laabes Nataly Laboy Anthony Lachhminarain Kiyana Laxamana Luciana Leeman Patrick Lewczak Braulio Steven Llauca Macas Sheralyn Hannabell Lliguicota Penafiel Matias Francesco Lopez-Barclay Janet Luna Amador

Austin Madrigal Samantha Maldonado Gianni Alexander Mancheno Joseph Mancuso Walter Thomas Henry Mann Kanai William Martin Jada Alyssa Martinez Roselyn Juliannna Martinez Biridiana Martinez Ryan Oneill Marzan Eduardo Alfonso Mata Jacob Alan Mauricio Shannon McCabe Amadi Cassie McIver Valerie Meany Ashley Mejia Natalie Melendez Ethan Jose Mendoza Nataly Messiha Julian Jan Sean Meyer Luigi Angeles Miguel Jordan Aaliyah Milton Wendy Montes Kevin Alexis Morales Janelly Mordan Carolina Moreira Kendrick Moreira Favio Moreno Sara Moreno-Morales Jeremy Iram Morocho

Isaiah Mosquera Joshua Muniz Charlize Elizabeth Munoz Anthony Gabriel Murillo Katherine Andrea Naranjo Angelina Navarrete Marcella Nguyen Linabel Nunez Hernandez Belinda Ocampo Ramon Samuel Occeas Andrew Oleas Darwin Raul Ordonez Joshua Ordonez Juan David Orosco Mikaela Mercedes Ortega Bryan Ortiz Marcial Ortiz Savannah Ortiz Makenzie Osorio Tyler Owney Karen Sofia Paez Bolivar Brandon Palacios Alessandra Adrienne Lumaban Palao Xavier Diosviann Pallet Jonriz Palmares Nina Heart Libunao Pascual Diego Armando Pastuizaca-Hernandez Izanaha Pamela-Lee Peeples Jason Penaloza See SALUTATORIAN, Page 22

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Class of 2023 Carmela Urbano

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Salutatorian tells classmates ‘We can change what is unjust’ (Continued from Page 21) German Peralta Amya Lizzette Perez Jericho Samson Perez Michael A Perez Samuel Elijah Perez Xavier Julian Perez Yulianny Rosa Perez Alexandra Kiara Perez Joselli Rose Pinedo Shirley Pinzon Kevin Abdiel Pitti-Serrano Deon Pitts Sean Polk Aidan Pruznak Anna Puglio Samira Pujols Milene Alexia Ramirez Sanchez Darlyn Anahi Ramos Duran Bryana Chassity Regalado Mia Rachel Retortillo Nicolas Rios Johan Emilio Rivas Ayden Rivera Gabriel Rivera Gabriela Shadhay Rivera Henry David Rivera Lysandro Yadier Rivera Ritchie Joel Rivera Jesus A Rivera Samuel Esteban Rivera Arcos

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Salutatorian Bianca Reyes speaks to classmates at the BHS graduation.

Kevin Rivera-Moreno Luciana Rivera-Rodriguez Luis Gabriel Robaina Arielle Therese Rodriguez Cosme Fernando Rodriguez Gianna Rodriguez Maithe Nikol Rodriguez Alejandro Soto Rodriguez Hugo Giordano Rodriguez Gonzalez

Jose Alberto Rodriguez-Vidal Luis Fernando Rojas Valverde Juan Manuel Rojas Vanegas Tristan Jerzon Buduan Romblon Jareth Fernando Romero Alvarez Erica Christine Ronan Jean Carlo Rosales Boy Brianna Rosario Jenny Rosario

Justin DeJesus Ruiz Joseph Anthony Rumsey-Chiolis William Fernandez Saca Leonardo Lucca Salomone Diana Sambonino Hugo Esteban Sanchez Carlos Daniel Santana Cedeno Alyjah Santiago Evelin Sarango Leana Schwed Karen Serna-Valencia Elene Shubitidze Anthony Ferreira Silveira Kiara Sinchire Christian Soto Colin Soto Justin Anthony Sousa Sandya Devi Sukhwa Brandon Suscal Yanelly Taipe Mairim Tapia Leonora Cami Teutonico Omar Tito Cristian Toalongo Sacheling Dayani Trejo Tere Ann V. Trinidad Maurice Jamaine Tucker Mauri Ulerio Carmela Urbano Luis Carlos Urena-Sequeira See SGO PRESIDENT, Page 23

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Belleville Post — July 2023 — 23

SGO president says ‘all things change’ (Continued from Page 22) Anthony Valdez Crystal Aliyah Valentin Anthony Michael Valese Juan Varela Luis Javier Vasquez Jasmin Vega Martin Gustavo Veizaga-Rodriguez Alyssa Velez Jonathan Fernando Victorio Justin Ivan Vicuna Vincent Lenin Vicuna

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Valedictorian Mikaela Andrade speaks to her classmates at graduation.

Valedictorian can’t wait to see what’s next (Continued from Page 1) started to see it as an opportunity to prove to myself that I am worthy, and I won’t let my anxiety get the best of me. Instead of waiting for the light to shine on me, I tried to become my own sunshine.”

This year’s SGO President was Nicholas Aleksashvili, and he spoke at the ceremony as well. He thanked his family, teachers and friends, asking the crowd to give them a round of applause before continuing.

“Today we will be entering the real world,” Aleksashvili said. “All the knowledge we learned in high school was to prepare us for what’s coming next. In the coming months, we will all be experiencing some kind of change in our daily lives.

While that’s scary, it’s also exciting and something we need to get used to because all things change.”

Bianca Reyes, the class of 2023’s salutatorian, gave her now former classmates advice when she spoke at the ceremony.

“We are celebrating a grand accomplishment,” Reyes said. “Today we are celebrating ourselves. We are celebrating our time at this school. Today, we go from being high schoolers to having been high schoolers. Today we have the power to look back on our accomplishments and carry them with us. Do not forget that these accomplishments are your own.

Even if your accomplishments are not acknowledged, do not let anyone take them away from you. Do not let anyone get away from disrespecting you. Do not let anyone tell you to accept that this is just how things are. You have the power to

change it. We can change what is unjust and we can vote for what we believe in.

We can make sure that we always use our voice.”

Superintendent Richard Tomko certified that the class of 2023 met all graduation requirements, and Board of Education President Luis Muniz, whose son Joshua was graduating, accepted the class as candidates for graduation. But before the names could be called and the caps could be thrown, valedictorian Mikaela Andrade spoke to her class one last time.

“Life will place obstacles in your path, but you set the limits to success,” Andrade said after describing her experience beginning at Belleville Middle School after immigrating to the country from Ecuador.

“I am here today thanks to a country that accepted me and a school that embraced me.

“I am here thanks to the friends who became my confidantes and whose unconditional bond has strengthened me in more ways than they can imagine.

“This is my story, but it is one not foreign to the class of 2023.

“We overcame so much to be here today, as a community confronting the effects of the pandemic and as individuals battling through isolation and the adversities of high school.

“We are here today despite the rain, the losses, the struggles and the silent battles kept in our hearts that we overcame to complete this milestone.

“Although our journey at BHS has ended, life’s journey has nowhere near started. I can’t wait to see what’s next.”

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