Restauranter enjoying a delicious run
By Joe Ungaro Editor
One of the owners of Nanina’s in the Park is having a great summer.
“It’s been some run,” said Vito Cucci, who breeds and races horses and owns Dornoch, the winner of the Belmont Stakes and the Haskell Stakes. Dornoch was scheduled to run in the Travers Stakes in Saratoga on Aug. 24 and the Breeders Cup on Nov. 1 at Del Mar in San Diego, before moving into retirement as a stud.
Cucci is a Nutley native and owns Nanina’s in Belleville with two other Nutley guys; brothers Barry and Joe Maurillo. Together, they have four sons, three of whom are Nutley High School graduates, working in the business.
In addition to Nanina's in the Park in Belleville, the partners own Chateau Grande Hotel in East Brunswick, Park Chateau Estate & Gardens in East Brunswick and The Park Savoy in Florham Park.
“Their sites are historic places that have been renovated at great expense and brought back to their original opulent glory,” said Karen J. Irvine, his publicist. “Their efforts have saved these mansions from the wrecking ball to preserve a bit of NJ's rich history.”
Cucci grew up in the restaurant business; his family owned Cucci’s in West Orange until it closed in 1990. He started working there full time while he was in college after his father got sick.
“I hooked up with my current partners, who are both from Nutley, when they cameto me with an opportunity,” Cucci said. “Barry was my contemporary, we were really good friends from fourth grade. They had come to me with an opportunity. They were proficient in the nightclub business. I was proficient in the catering part of it. They had asked me to join them in a venture.”
Together, they purchased Crystals, a catering facility and night club in Linden, and built from there.
“Then we bought Nanina’s in the Park in 2002, Savoy in 2011, Chateau in 2016 and the hotel we built in 2020,” Cucci said.
The group purchased Nanina from the daughter of the original owner.
“They had a long history,” Cucci said. “I think they started in 1956, they were very picky people. They were very careful on who they turned it over to.”
Simultaneous to the growth of the
business, Cucci’s involvement in horse racing was growing.
“I was always interested in thoroughbreds but when the Meadowlands opened, my brother in law Joe Fusaro was a trainer. I had a casual conversation with him one day; I said ‘I’d love to get in the game if you can find a horse’ and he did.”
The horse, a pacer, turned out to be a really good horse, earning $400,000.
See DORNOCH, Page 6
Photo Courtesy of Vito Cucci
Vito Cucci, owner of Nanina’a in the Park, with Dornoch at the Saratoga Race Course in New York.
Sons of the American Legion hold fourth blood drive this year
Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Squadron 105 of Belleville hosted its fourth blood drive this year, in support of the American Legion’s core pillar of national security.
New York Blood Center (NYBC) was present at the Post Hall on Washington Avenue in June and collected 21 pints of blood.
Some donors actually learned where theire blood was sent; one such Belleville donor received an email titled “Your Donation Made Its Way To Save Lives.”
“We thought you’d be as excited as we are to learn your Whole Blood donation on 2024-0624 was sent to The Mount Sinai Hospital, Montefiore St. Luke's Cornwall Hospital (Newburgh). Your donation is a lifesaving gift to patients in need, including cancer patients, trauma victims, newborn babies and individuals undergoing surgery. And these patients are grateful for your donation.”
All four blood drives this year have been coordinated by Blood Drive Chairman Steve Donald. This time, donors received a voucher to see a free Staten Island FerryHawks baseball game.
Blood drives are an important way the American Legion fulfills its commitment to one of its four core pillars – National Security.
Community Service is a critical element of building a strong national security, and the American Legion’s blood donor initiatives reach all the way back to the days after the attack on Pearl Harbor when World War I veteran members of “The Legion” organized blood drives to support elements of a much needed civil defense program.
Photos Courtesy of Sons of American Legion Post 105
Above, Sons of American Legion Adjutant Rusty Myers donates blood with Blood Drive Chairman Steve Donald standing by; below Sons of American Legion member Sammy DeLorenzo donates blood; right; Donald outside the Post during the drive.
American Legion heads down the shore for annual convention
The American Legion Post 105 Family of Belleville participated in the annual Department of New Jersey Convention in Wildwood this summer.
The Post’s Sons of the American Legion (SAL) received a number of awards for their work in the community. SAL Squadron 105 received plaques on the second day of the convention, recognizing their work in promoting the four pillars of the organization – veteran’s affairs, children and youth, national security, and Americanism.
The awards were given for donations to projects and programs in 2023-24, and for man-hours spent on those programs. They were:
• First place in Internal Affairs donations, which was money that was raised going back to the home post;
• Third place in Americanism Donations;
• Third place in Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation donations;
• First place in Children and Youth donations;
• First place in Children’s Organ Transplant Association donations;
• Third place in hours spent working for Children’s Organ Transplant Association.
The hours and monies awards are calculated based on “per capita” hours or donations, meaning based on how many members the squadron has – the 105 has 140 members.
The awards are also across all of New Jersey’s 180-plus squadrons, according to a press release from Post 105.
But the week was more than awards –it started with a “Buddy Walk,” which was a stroll on the boardwalk bringing attention to the veteran’s suicide epidemic, the convention session, elections of new state officers, and the parties promoting state-wide camaraderie, the release said.
Members from the 105 participated in their own “Essex County Social” at their motel, the Skylark, but also went to events held by Passaic, Bergen, Monmouth, and the posts of Ocean County.
Officers from the national organization were present as well, including American Legion National Commander Daniel Seehafer.
The week always ends with the Department of New Jersey’s parade, which starts almost in North Wildwood and marches down Atlantic Avenue.
More than 30 members of Belleville marched, with the Post even renting a 6person golf cart for those who couldn’t march.
Throughout the entire mile-and-ahalf parade, the Post heard shouts of “105 in the House!”
Back home, the awards were presented to the squadron at the regular meeting in July, where James Elsmore was installed as the new squadron commander.
Photos Courtesy of Sons of American Legion Post 105
Clockwise from the top, Belleville’s American Legion Auxiliary at the parade in Wildwood; members of Post 105 with the plaques they received at the convention; Russell “Rusty” Myers of the Sons of the American Legion at the convention rostrum; members of the Post take the pledge at the Skylark Motel; Post 105 marching in the parade.
Dornoch will go out to stud after the Breeders Cup in November
(Continued from Page 1)
Cucci’s interests expanded and eventually he opened Belmar Racing and Breeding, where among others he bred the 2022 Hambletonian winner.
“I started in, concentrating on the standardbred business, trotters, I always loved the trotters,” Cucci said. “I raced and bred trotters up until I got into the thoroughbreds, which was like 2017.
Cucci’s stable bred the 2022 Hambletonian winner Cool Papa Bell.
“I own the mare, and I picked the stallion she would be bred to. I raised him at a farm in New Jersey,” Cucci said. “When I breed, I don’t breed to keep them, I breed to sell at the yearling sale.”
Cucci had been looking at some thoroughbreds when he got a call from horse trainer Danny Gargan, who had just bought Dornoch and was looking for financing.
“He asked if I wanted 25 percent,” Cucci said. “Danny went out that night and met Jayson in a bar and asked if he was interested.”
Jayson is Jayson Werth, who played 15 years of Major League Baseball and won a World Series with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Werth, who owns 10 percent of the horse, was known for, among other things, his long hair which he did not want to cut for superstitious reasons.
OIther owners include New Jersey Native Randy Hill, who owns 29 percent, Mark Pine, who owns 5 percent, and Georgia-based West Paces Races, which owns 32 percent.
“People say to me Jayson gets all the attention but I say he is a great ambassador for the sport,” Cucci said. “He made a great statement, that winning the Belmont was as good as winning the World Series.”
Cucci believes Dornoch could have been a triple crown winner if he had gotten a better post position in the Kentucky Derby.
Dornoch got the number one position, closes to the rail, and no horse has won the derby from that position since 1986.
The derby is unlike another race, Cucci said. “Twenty horses, and if you are in the post, they are all bearing down on you. Our jockey got off the horse and said ‘Don’t worry we will win the Belmont.”
Dornoch didn’t run in the Preakness but won the Belmont Stakes, winning $2 million.
The race, the third oldest in the country dating to 1867, was held at Saratoga Race Course this year because Belmont Park is undergoing a renovation.
Dornoch’s win took place on June 8, before a crowd of 50,000. Dornoch was 17-1 in the race, earning $37.40 for a $2 win wager.
The Triple Crown is a series of three races for three-year-olds: Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes.
Next up for Dornoch was the Haskell Invitational Stakes at Monmouth Park, which is one of the top 10 most prestigious races in the country with a $1 million prize.
“To win in my home state at the track where I used to go as a kid is just incredible,” said Cucci. “There are 17,000 foals born each year; to own a Grade 1 champion is nearly a miracle.”
Next up for Dornoch is the Travers in Saratoga in August with a prize of $1.25 million, and then the Breeders Cup with a purse of $7 million.
“That will be his last race. After that, we have to turn him over to a breeding farm,” Cucci said. “He is so well bred, and formed. In 2023, his brother won the Kentucky Derby. A horse like that, they don’t race, they are too valuable. It’s going to be heart breaking after the Breeders Cup.
Cucci, who is 68, said he personally doesn’t plan to quit.
I could never retire,” he said. “I can’t do that.”
Kearny-Belleville Elks Lodge to host annual ‘Incredible Duck Race’ in September
The Kearny-Belleville Elks have announced their plans to host their annual Incredible Duck Race, a fun-filled event aimed at raising funds for their community programs benefiting special needs children, Veterans, youth programs, and drug awareness initiatives.
The event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 21, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., promising a day of excitement and entertainment for all attendees.
The Incredible Duck Race will feature free admission, live music, vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly activities to enjoy throughout the day. Attendees will have the opportunity to adopt a rubber duck for just $5, with the chance to win amazing prizes including a trip to Las Vegas, tickets to Legoland, and more.
"We are thrilled to host the Incredible Duck Race once again to support our charity programs that make a positive impact on our community," said Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, a member of KearnyBelleville Elks 1050.
"This event is not only a great way to give back, but also a fantastic opportunity for families to come together for a day of fun and excitement."
The Kearny-Belleville Elks1050 invite everyone to join them for a day of festivities, all while supporting a great cause.
For more information about the event, adoption of rubber ducks, or sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.incredibleduckrace.com or contact Melanie Pasquarelli, our Duck Race Coordinator at 201-772-8107.
Publisher: David Worrall
Editor: Joe Ungaro
Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina
Top Photo Courtesy of NYRA/Adam Coglianese. Bottom Photo Courtesy of Tom Zapcic Above, Dornoch wins the Belmont Stakes. Below, from left, Mike Pine and Vito Cucci, co-owners of Dornoch; Danny Gargan Trainer and Jayson Werth, co-owner, posing with the Belmont StakesTrophy at Orchard Park by David Burke at Chateau Grande Hotel,
Belleville student gets diploma and degree
Belleville's Rchin Bari was among a group of county vocational-technical school graduates who earned an associate degree along with their high school diplomas.
Bari set the tone for his academic career as a freshman learning virtually during the pandemic. He showed up every day on his screen in full uniform. He continued to go above and beyond to make the most out of his Essex County Newark Tech education in medical science, including seizing the opportunity to earn an associate degree in liberal arts through the school’s Early College program.
Earning the degree at Essex County College was extra special for Rchin, whose mother also graduated from the college after moving to America from Bangladesh. Her own graduation picture shows her holding Rchin in her arms.
Now, Rchin says his degree from Essex County College is just the beginning of his own academic journey.
“I pursued this program because it was one of the most rigorous things I could do in high school to prepare to go to a top school,” he said. He will attend Brown University in the fall to major in biophysics with his end goal to become a neurosurgeon.
Taking full advantage of opportunities to earn college credits while in high school, 251 students from across New Jersey’s county vocational-technical schools graduated with an associate degree this year in addition to a high school diploma.
The students accumulated at least 60 credits throughout their high school education - the equivalent of a two-year head start on college.
“We continue to see a rise in the number of students earning associate degrees while attending their county vocationaltechnical school,” said James Pedersen, superintendent of Essex County Schools of Technology and president of the New Jersey Council of County VocationalTechnical Schools (NJCCVTS).
Each of the state’s 21 county vocational-technical schools has articulation agreements with their county college, and other two and four-year colleges and universities, that enable students to earn credit for college-level work as part of their high school career and technical education program.
Photo Courtesy of Essex County College Rchin Bari earned an associates degree as well as his high school diploma.
Parish celebrates pastors 25 years in the priesthood
The Parish of St. Peter held a solemn celebration to coincide with its pastor’s 25th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood.
The Rev. Ivan Sciberras, who has been shepherding the parish since July 2009, was ordained a priest on May 29, 1999 at the Cathedral-Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, after undergoing eight years of spiritual, theological and missionary formation.
More than 20 priests concelebrated at the Solemn Mass May 29. Among those in attendance was a long-time friend, Bishop Peter Baldacchino, of Las Cruces, N.M. Sciberras’ mother, Helen, and sister, Rosanne Ancilleri, flew from Malta for the occasion, which was followed by a dinner at the St. Peter School Auditorium prepared by the parishioners.
In July, Sciberras visited his hometown in Malta where another celebration was held at the parish where he grew up and received the sacraments
Clockwise from top left, Fr. David Hinojosa (to the right) offers a toast at the reception, which was held at the St. Peter School Auditorium; the recessional at the Mass, during which members of the Knights of Columbus provided an honor guard; The Rev. Ivan Sciberras speaks to his mother; Sciberras preaches at the standing-room only Mass at St. Peter’s on May 29; the entrance procession at the first Mass celebrated by Sciberras at Our Lady of Mount Virgin church in Garfield a day after his ordination in 1999; Sciberras elevates the Host during a Mass of Thanksgiving at his hometown of Balzan, Malta.
Photos Courtesy of St. Peter Church
Scientists in Nutley developing breath test to detect cancer
NUTLEY — The foundational science to develop an exhaled-breath test for detection of lung diseases including lung cancer is underway in Nutley, according to new research published by a laboratory at the Hackensack Meridian Center for Discovery and Innovation (CDI).
Two papers published by CDI Associate Member Olivier Loudig and colleagues show that they have successfully collected, separated, and profiled lung biomarkers from human breath, and also developed animal models to expand their analyses and potentially identify key markers for early and non-invasive detection of metastatic lung tumors.
Significant work remains to be done to identify a range of the biomarkers and prove that its accuracy can be clinically relevant for human patients, but the two publications have established the scientific roadmap as the CDI scientists continue their work toward that goal.
“This innovative non-invasive approach is aimed at establishing a new method to lower the threshold for earlier than ever before detection of this horrible disease,” said Loudig.
“This innovative technology developed by Olivier Loudig offers promise and hope to patients who all too often receive a diagnosis too late for effective intervention,” said David Perlin, the chief scientific officer and executive vice president of the CDI.
“We
Loudig’s work focuses on the capture and identification of nanoparticles known as extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are released by virtually all cells into the extracellular space such as blood, serum, and other biofluids.
Cancer cells especially release a greater number of nanoparticles, which Loudig has been targeting for earlier-than-ever disease detection and diagnostics. His laboratory at the CDI has developed research programs for biomarker discovery and early detection of lung, prostate, cervical, and bladder cancers using liquid biopsies.
To do so, the group developed a technology called Ev-Catcher for selective isolation of cell-specific nanoparticles from biofluids, and is using next-generation sequencing profiles of small-RNAs contained in these nanoparticles for noninvasive identification of lesions and tumors that may be developing in the body.
Loudig’s science and Ev-Catcher technology are the foundation of Hackensack Meridian Health’s first spin-off company, EValuate Diagnostics, founded early this year.
Loudig has now set his sight on applying Ev-Catcher to purify EVs from human exhaled breath, which contain disease markers that may then be analyzed without invasive sampling of the lung.
Retired middle school teacher revisits classroom
Former John Walker Middle School teacher Carol Ann Harris recently returned to her old classroom to relive her teaching days.
Harris, who was one of the longest serving history teachers in district history, is currently a resident of Harmony Village at CareOne Paramus, an assisted living community focused on those with memory impairment.
The idea to bring Harris back to Nutley and the Walker Middle School was formulated by the CareOne staff which includes Nutley residents John Albanese and Dayna Hess. The trip was organized by Harmony One employees with the help of Joseph Materia, current principal of John Walker Middle School.
She was brought to the school by CareOne Director of Recreation Jose Morocho
and Senior Dementia Care Specialist Joan DiPaola.
Harris never married or had children of her own but considered her students to be her kids.
These days, she enjoys telling her fellow residents and the CareOne team about her days in the classroom, according to a press release from Care One.
Harris arrived around 3:30 p.m. and was welcomed by Materia and took a short tour of the school’s hallways, auditorium, and library as well as her former classroom.
The smile and glow on her face as she recognized many of the places where she spent a great deal of her life was visible to everyone, according to a press release from the township.
place at a teaching
left, CareOne Director of Recreation Jose Morocho, CareOne Director of Sales and Marketing Dayna Hess, Senior Dementia Care Specialist for CareOne Joan DiPaola, John H. Walker Middle School Principal Joseph Materia stand behind Harris in a hallway of the school. Far left, from left, DiPaola, Harris, and Morocho in a clasroom.
Nutley school turns students into doctors
NUTLEY — The journey begins.
The Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine welcomed its newest class of 168 students with a White Coat Ceremony at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark in July.
The aspiring doctors donned their distinctive coats during the ceremony, as they started their journey toward acquisition of a medical degree (M.D.), which will be completed in three or four years, depending on their selected academic track.
More than half, 50.6 %, of the new students are from New Jersey. They speak 21 languages other than English. Thirty-two members of the cohort are from groups categorized as under-represented in medicine.
The School admitted its first class in 2018 with 60 students. Subsequent years brought an increasing number of students, leading to this seventh year of admissions. The largest graduation yet ushered 102 new doctors into their residencies across the country last month.
“This medical school continues to admit, and train, some of the brightest and best in the country,’’ said Robert C. Garrett, chief executive officer of Hackensack Meridian Health. “Our intention in creating this medical school was to do things in a new and better way. Each year we see how this unique institution is making it happen.’’
“We are realizing our mission and our vision, with every new cohort and class,” said Dr. Jeffrey Boscamp, president and dean of the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine.
About 5000 students applied to join this year’s class.
Students have the opportunity for a three-year path to residency, or an optional fourth year which offers combined master’s degree or graduate certificate programs, intense clinical immersion, or focused research. Defining features of the curriculum include the Human Dimension, a longitudinal course which pairs students with people out in the community to foster real-world clinical skills outside a hospital or doctor’s office.
The Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine was the first private medical school created in New Jersey in more than 50 years when welcomed its first class of students in 2018 to the On3 campus.
Photos Courtesy of CareOne
Above, Carol Ann Harris, CareOne Resident and former teacher, takes her
desk in John Walker Middle School. Left, from
Officers from the Belleville Police Department’s Community Policing Unit hit the streets on a particularly hot day in early August to hand out lemonade to thirsty and dehydrated citizens. Officers stopped at several locations throughout the day and handed out more than 100 cups of ice cold lemonade to people caught in the heat wave.
Photos Courtesy of Belleville Police Department
Nutley UNICO celebrates Chistms Eve in July with 7 fish dinner
UNICO members with guests include Robert Belcuore, seated on the left in the front and Carol Ricci, seated and second from right. Standing UNICO members include Dan Marucci, Linda Forgione, Cathy Marucci, Lorraine Belcuore, Dan Carnicella, Dr. Louis J.Crupi.
Nutley UNICO held their first event of the fiscal year on Thursday, July 18 at Mamma Vittoria for their traditional Christmas Eve in July event. With nearly 100 attendees, the event highlighted the seven fishes Italians customarily serve on Christmas Eve. Also on the menu were homemade Biscotti and Struffoli (Italian Honey Balls) made by Cathy Marucci and Marie Solimo. Dan Marucci and the kitchen staff at Mamma Vittoria’s culinary talents were also a highlight, according to people at the event.
UNICO National is the largest Italian American Service Organization in the USA with more than 100 years of “Service Above Self.” The Nutley Chapter of UNICO has been promoting and preserving its Italian Heritage since 1959.
member Pasquare Pisani, standing in the center, with family and friends.
Welcome back to school
UNICO Member Sal Fiordilino, third from left, and Joe Cervasio, seated fourth from left, with their guests.
UNICO
UNICO Members, standing from left, James Mauro, Amy Celento, Rich Rubino and Sal Corvino, seated, with their guests.
Photos Courtesy of Nutley UNICO
Buccaneers dominate opponents, finish 12-0 Hackensack Meridian doctors featured on Nutley podcast
The Belleville Buccaneers, a close-knit team of a dozen 11-year-olds, emerged as the class of the United States Amateur Baseball League through their uncommon dedication.
In the spring and summer seasons, spanning March through July, the Bucs had only five days without a game or practice.
Even when Coach William Canon would offer the players a day off, they insisted on showing up and running through an intense practice.
“After a long week and hot summer days, I’ll say, ‘OK, your parents probably want a day off,’ “ Canon said. “They’ll say, ‘No way!’ “
Their commitment resulted in a 12-0 record in the summer season, culminating with a 7-4 victory over Chatham in the championship game. The Bucs outscored their opponents, 97-21, during the summer season.
The summer championship came after the Bucs captured the state title in the spring. They won all 12 games, outscoring their opponents, 125-18. Those 18 runs given up by Bucs pitching were the fewest among the 178 teams in the state.
As much as the past five months have been about learning the finer points of, say, a rundown play or a squeeze bunt, the focus has also been on shaping young men through lessons in good sportsmanship and teamwork.
For instance, when the Bucs defeated
The Belleville Buccaneers 11-year-olds enjoyed a stellar season this spring and summer.
Chatham, they almost immediately lined up for the postgame handshake with the players on the opposing team. Then, the Buccaneer players dutifully ran through their customary postgame sprints in the outfield.
“The coaches on the other teams remarked that they were impressed by the team’s maturity,” Canon said. “After their sprints, they finally did celebrate. They’re kids, after all.”
Kids, and local celebrities, too.
In fact, Mason Acevedo, Dante Armstrong, Justin Browne, Bobby Canon, John “JP” Canon, Ethan Cordero, Brandon Garcia, Chris Mejia, Isaiah Ramirez, Jace Silva, Lawrence Vanderbly and
The August episode of the Inside Nutley Podcast features recent Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine graduate and lifelong Nutley resident Dr. Nick Cozzarelli along with Dr. Jeffrey Boscamp, dean of the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine.
Host Thomas Greco brings you inside the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine through the eyes of Cozzarelli, a Nutley native who shares his journey from Spring Garden to Hackensack Meridian; and Boscamp, an integral figure in bringing the school to Nutley and overseeing what has become one of the leading medical schools in the country.
The “Inside Nutley” Podcast is available on iTunes, Soundcloud and the Township of Nutley Facebook page.
MONTCLAIR
STATE UNIVERSITY CENTER FOR AUDIOLOGY 1515 Broad St., Bloomfield, New Jersey
Comprehensive audiological services for adults and children; free hearing screenings.
• Low-cost Hearing Evaluations
• Hearing Aid Sales and Services
• Auditory Processing Disorder Testing
• Balance Testing
• Custom Ear Molds and Hearing Protectors
• Auditory Brainstem Response Testing
Call 973-655-3934 or email: csdclinic@montclair.edu to schedule an appointment. Visit montclair.edu/aud for more information.
Elena Kagan Weitz, AuD, CCC-A, F-AAA Clinical Preceptor and Director of Hearing Aid Services NJ State Audiology License #41YA00091600
Photo Courtesy of Belleville Twp.
Photo Courtesy of Nutley Twp.
From left, Dr. Jeffrey Boscamp and Dr. Nick Cozzarelli, who are featured on\ the Nutley Podcast.
Photo Courtesy of Belleville Police Department
The Belleville Police Department ran Operation Chill this summer. Officers kept an eye out for kids doing positive things and rewarded them with coupons for free Slurpees from 7-Eleven. Positive activities that were rewarded included wearing helmets while biking or skateboarding, walking dogs, cashing in summer reading points, washing cars and playing with grandpa. This was the third year the department has done Operation Chill with officers on routine patrols, looking for good deeds and acts of kindness.
Clear pathway created for ECC students transfering to NJCU
A transfer agreement ensuring a seamless transition from Essex County College to New Jersey City University was signed by the presidents of both institutions in a ceremony earlier this month.
The signing, held on Essex County College’s (ECC) Newark campus, will help ensure a clear pathway for students to first earn an associate degree followed by a bachelor’s degree and beyond, said ECC’s President Augustine A. Boakye.
“This is an agreement that brings two outstanding institutions together who have similar goals and missions. We believe that everyone should have access to a quality higher education at an affordable price,” said Boakye.
“Today we are executing a plan that will not only support both our institutions, but the communities that we serve.”
Boakye said this agreement is one more way that the college can help students first graduate from Essex County College, then continue to grow and succeed.
New Jersey City University (NJCU) Interim President Andres Acebo concurred.
“This agreement will be our collective legacy, a program that has been championed through by our concerted efforts,” Acebo said.
There will be nearly 40 majors that students moving from ECC to NJCU can pur-
sue at little or no cost, Acebo said.
The state Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) program covers the tuition and approved educational fees for eligible community college students which their remaining aid doesn’t pay, according to a press release from ECC.
At the four-year institution level, the state’s Garden State Guarantee (GSG) program covers the cost of tuition and fees that are not already covered by federal and state financial aid or other scholarships, the release said
Under the terms of the agreement, both institutions will establish procedures for the sharing of campus resources and student support services. The program will be evaluated on a regular basis to ensure its effectiveness, the release said.
New Jersey State Assemblywoman Carmen Morales, a former ECC Board of Trustees member, said “today marks a significant milestone in education. We are making higher education more accessible and affordable. We are strengthening the community and building a greater New Jersey.”
The transfer agreement is for five years.
Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr., a graduate of NJCU when it was Jersey City State College, said the agreement will greatly benefit students.
STATE FARM INSURANCE
Renee Friscia, Agent
Providing Insurance and Financial Services
146 Franklin Avenue Nutley
O: 973-667-6600 F: 973-667-0642
renee@nutleyinsurance com
BELLEVILLE PHARMACY
338 Washington Avenue Belleville 973-759-1956
www.bellevillepharmacy.com
SBARRA CHIROPRACTIC
260 Park Avenue Nutley 973-662-0006
S.W. BROWN & SON FUNERAL HOME John F. Brown, Mgr N.J. Lic. No. 2633
267 Centre Street Nutley 973-667-0875
www.swbrownandson.com
THE WHISKEY PRIEST
538 Union Avenue Belleville 973-528-2454
FRANKIE’S CAR WASH
305 Broad Street Bloomfield 973-748-7300
www.jerseycarwashes com
SANDY LANE
NURSERY SCHOOL
634 Mill Street
Belleville 973-751-6380
NUTLEY AUTO KIA
66 Washington Avenue Nutley 973-447-4739
www.nutleykia.net
D & L AUTOMOTIVE
251 Washington Avenue
Nutley 973-667-4688
dandlautomotivenj.com
ZIPPOS
745 Washington Avenue
Belleville 973-759-6800 zippos com
WALT SMITH EMPLOYEE BENEFIT CONSULTANT We can help with your Medicare planning 568 Prospect Street Nutl
CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT
Suburban Essex Chamber of Commerce ~ Serving Bloomfield, Belleville and Glen Ridge Businesses ~
CHAMBER WELCOMES NEW MEMBER!
BLOOMFIELD EYE ASSOCIATES
Dr. Patricia Cucci M.D., F.A.C.S. 1025 Broad Street, Bloomfield 973-338-1001
Dr. Patricia Cucci welcomes Dr. Fahd Yazdanie, M.D. and Dr. Giselle Lynch, M.D. to its eye care physician office for all family members. Services include patients in need of any type of general eye care, glaucoma, cataracts, medical eye care, surgical eye care or laser eye care. Please visit their website for details at bloomfieldeyenj.com. “Congratulations and Welcome!”
www.SuburbanEssexChamber.com Suburbanessexchamber.com; facebook.com/pages/suburban-essex-chamber-of-commerce
Belleville gets grant to make roads safer for walking, biking
BELLEVILLE — Almost $1 million in state grants will help Belleville make local roads safer to walk, bike or travel by other wheeled devices.
State transportation officials announced this summer that Belleville has been awarded $962,000 through the state’s Safe Routes to School Program (SRTS).
Belleville achieved seven gold-level SRTS recognition awards for its efforts to create safer pedestrian and bike access from local roads to Belleville Schools 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9 and 10. In addition, Belleville Middle School is being recognized for again earning a gold-level recognition award. Gold is the state program’s highest ranking among the four levels, signifying a school or municipality’s progress toward implementing and sustaining SRTS programs, according to a press release from the township.
“Our team has been working on pedestrian safety and walkability, and our determination has paid off,” said Belleville Mayor Michael Melham. “Thank you to the NJDOT Safe Routes to School Program, for your generous grant to repair sidewalks, restripe crosswalks, upgrade ADAcompliant curbing, add school zone and safety signage, and build out areas of raised crosswalks, bump outs and curb extensions around our schools and neighborhoods – all for a safer, walkable community.”
Under Melham’s leadership, Belleville turned the issue of safe and secure streets around its schools into a community-wide project, with members of the Belleville Police Department collecting vital traffic data and school children creating highly visible street murals at well-traveled intersections, the release said.
Each year, schools and municipalities across New Jersey are nominated for recognition in this program based upon their SRTS accomplishments. Recognition is valid for three years. Schools and municipalities that have earned state
SRTS recognition and are also enrolled in the Sustainable Jersey certification program can earn points for both programs.
Since 2022, Belleville has received three grants to implement and support the SRTS program. The first for $11,500, the second for $10,000, and the third for $962,000. Federal funds were authorized for the third grant on July 10, which allows work to begin on Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant curb ramps and sidewalks, curb extensions, high visibility crosswalks, and enhanced school zone signage around every Belleville elementary school, Belleville Middle School and Belleville High School.
Communities that participate in the SRTS programs often benefit from less traffic congestion, better air quality, fewer traffic conflicts near schools, and most importantly, safer, healthier and more active children, according to the New Jersey Safe Routes Resource Center.
“The death of Avyaan Gupta in Parsippany earlier this month is a tragedy, and during my time as commissioner, I am committed to working with local officials to make the improvements needed to ensure that New Jersey’s roads are safe for our children,” Commissioner Fran O’Connor said in July.
“The New Jersey Safe Routes to School Program is just one way NJDOT can support communities in their efforts to provide safe access for children walking and biking to school, with $21.1 million available in federal grants.”
"For over a decade, EZ Ride has been administering the Safe Routes to School Program in Bergen, Essex, Monmouth, Passaic, and Union counties, thanks to NJDOT's support," said EZ Ride President & CEO Krishna Murthy.
“Notably, 75 percent of our awardees come from underserved communities,” Murthy said. “At EZ Ride, pedestrian and cyclist safety is a top priority, and we commend Belleville Township and the School District for their dedication to this cause."
BELLEVILLE — The third season of the ANCHOR program has begun and Mayor Michael Melham is reminding all eligible residents to take advantage of the state’s largest property tax relief initiative.
“About 1.5 million New Jersey residents will get automatic ANCHOR payments this year, but another 2 million residents – including property owners in Belleville – could be eligible,” Melham said.
“Taxpayers in New Jersey can get up to $1,750 in tax rebates.”
The state Treasury Department sent notification letters Monday, Aug. 19 to 1.5 million residents to let them know their
ANCHOR applications can be filed automatically.
Residents who don’t receive a notification letter or an application packet can still apply for ANCHOR benefits by logging onto the state’s website: anchor.nj.gov.
The deadline to file a new application is Nov. 30.
More information about the program is available at anchor.nj.gov. Applicants may also call the ANCHOR hotline at (609) 826-4282 or 1-888-238-1233, or get in-person assistance at a regional information center. The closest centers to Belleville are in Fairlawn and Cranford.
Nutley residents make the Dean’s List at Bucknell
Nutley Residents Bella Guzman, who is studying psychology, and Meghan Tran, who is studying finance, made the dean's list at Bucknell University for outstanding academic achievement during the spring semester of the 2023-24 academic year. A student must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a scale of 4.0 to receive dean's list recognition.
Silva make’s Dean’s List at Champlain College
Joaquim Silva, of Nutley, was named to the Champlain College Dean's List for the Spring 2024 semester. students on the Dean's List have achieved a grade point average of 3.5 or higher during the semester. Silva is currently majoring in accounting.
Ingles makes Dean’s List at Champlain College
Jonathan Ingles, of Belleville, was named to the Champlain College President's List for the Spring 2024 semester. Students on the President's List have achieved a grade point average of 4.0 or higher during the semester. Ingles is majoring in game design.
Nutley residents make Dean’s List at Quinnipiac
Nutley residents Adriana Hotsko and Ella Romonowski, were named to the dean's list for the spring 2024 semester at Quinnipiac University.
Forlenza
named to
Dean’s List at Emmanuel College
Emmanuel College in Boston has named Emanuel Forlenza of Nutley to the Dean's List for the Spring 2024 Semester. To earn a spot on the Dean's List, Emmanuel students must achieve a grade point average of 3.5 or higher for a 16credit semester.
Bruggermann makes Dean’s List at Scranton
Justin M. Bruggemann, of Nutley, a junior biochemistry major, made the University of Scranton's Dean's List for the 2024 spring semester. A student must have a grade point average of 3.5 or better with a minimum number of credit hours during the semester to make the Dean's List.
Vazquez makes Dean’s List at Scranton
Joseph T. Vazquez, of Nutley, a junior psychology major, made the University of Scranton's Dean's List for the 2024 spring semester.
Connors makes the Dean’s List at Scranton
Ethan Connors, of Nutley, a senior advertising/public relations major, made the University of Scranton's Dean's List for the 2024 spring semester. A student must have a grade point average of 3.5 or better with a minimum number of credit hours during the semester to make the Dean's List.
Nutley residents make the Dean’s List at TCNJ
The following students from Nutley were named the Dean's List at The College of New Jersey for the spring 2024 semester. To achieve this honor, a student must carry 12 or more credits that semester and earn a 3.5 (or above) grade point average: Zachary Cagiao, s biology major, Rachel Echevarria, a kinesiology and health sciences major, Zachary Mackiewicz, a music education major, Brian McCormack, an economics major, Madison Netzke, a prespeech-lang path and audiology major, Jenna Pomponio, a biology major, EthanMichael Ramos, a music education major, Mia Scutti, a psychology major, Nicholas Serafino, a biology major, Abigail Thurston, a special education major, Sophy Vuong, a biology major, and Rebecca Wechter, a journalism major.
Belleville residents make the Dean’s List at TCNJ
The following students from Belleville were named the Dean's List at The College of New Jersey for the spring 2024 semester: Jazailis Gual, a communication studies major, and Sebastian Hernandez, a finance major.
Flores makes Dean’s List at Baldwin Wallace
Valeria Flores, of Nutley, majoring in music theater, has been named to the Dean's List for the spring 2024 semester at Baldwin Wallace University in Berea, Ohio.
Nutley resident studies in Costa Rica for summer
Alexandra Wasko, of Nutley, is one of more than 40 Lebanon Valley College students studying away this summer as part of the college's study abroad program. Wasko, a graduate of Nutley High School, is pursuing a bachelor of science in neuroscience and traveled to Costa Rica this summer. This four-week summer program is offered to students in any major who have an interest in broadening their Spanish language and Hispanic cultural knowledge.
This message is sponsored by these community minded businesses and organizations
SBARRA CHIROPRACTIC
260 Park Avenue
Nutley 973-662-0006
STATE FARM INSURANCE
Renee Friscia, Agent
Providing Insurance and Financial Services
146 Franklin Avenue
Nutley
O: 973-667-6600 F: 973-667-0642 renee@nutleyinsurance.com
S.W. BROWN & SON FUNERAL HOME
John F. Brown, Mgr N.J. Lic. No 2633
267 Centre Street
Nutley 973-667-0875 www.swbrownandson.com
MOSCARA REALTY
165 Franklin Avenue
Nutley 973-667-1732 moscararealtors com
D & L AUTOMOTIVE
251 Washington Avenue
Nutley 973-667-4688 dandlautomotivenj com
BELLEVILLE PHARMACY
338 Washington Avenue
Belleville 973-759-1956 www bellevillepharmacy com
NATIONAL SPORTSWEAR
368 Cortlandt Street
Belleville 973-759-2005
www njsportswear com
SANDY LANE
NURSERY SCHOOL 634 Mi
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
DUBLIN-BORN COMEDIAN DAVID NIHILL comes to New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark on Sunday, Sept. 21, at 7 p.m. Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, One Center St., Newark. Tickets are $29.50 to $49.50 at www.njpac.org.
COMEDIAN ELON GOLD COMES TO NJPAC on Sunday, Sept. 22, at 7 p.m. NJPAC Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $39.50 to $49.50 at www.njpac.org.
PODCAST DUO HANNAH BERNER & PAIGE
DESORBO BRING THEIR CLUB GIGGLY SHOW TO NJPAC on Sunday, Oct. 20, at 6 p.m. NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $39.50 to $79.50 at www.njpac.org.
COMEDIAN MICHAEL BLAUSTEIN, HOST OF THE STIFF SOCKS PODCAST COMES TO NJPAC on Saturday, Oct. 26, at 7 p.m. NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St. Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org.
COMEDIAN ALI SIDDIQ “I GOT A STORY TO TELL” at NJPAC on Friday, Nov. 1, at 8 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, One Center Street, Newark. Tickets $31 to $56 at www.njpac.org.
MAZ JOBRANI BRINGS HIS MR. INTERNATIONAL TOUR TO NJPAC on Saturday, Nov. 10, at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $49 at www.njpac.org.
COMEDIAN AND ACTOR VIR DA BRINGS HIS MIND FOOL TOUR TO NJPAC on Sunday, Nov. 24, at 7 p.m., Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $39.50 to $59.50 at: www.NJPAC.org or 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).
BRAZILIAN, COMEDIAN, RAFI BASTOS BRINGS HIS UNFAMILIAR TERRITORY TOUR
to NJPAC on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 8 p.m., Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, One Center St. Tickets are $39.50 to $45.50 at www.njpac.org.
STANDUP COMEDIAN, ACTOR, AND AUTHOR JOSH WOLF BRINGS HIS HIGH ON LIFE TOUR to NJPAC on Friday, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m., Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $33.50 to $53.50 at www.njpac.org.
DANCE
CHERISH THE LADIES CELTIC CHRISTMAS on Sunday, Dec. 8 at 3 p.m., UCPAC Main Stage, 1601 Irving St. Rahway. Phone, (732) 499-8226
LECTURES
THE DURAND-HEDDEN HOUSE & GARDEN WILL HOST GUEST LECTURER GREGORY AN EVENING WITH RICHARD DAWKINS AND FRIENDS on Friday, Sept. 13, at 7 p.m. Dawkins, the world-renowned evolutionary biologist, author, and public intellectual, brings his tour to New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets $49.50 - $97.50 at www.njpac.org.
HILLARY CLINTON LIVE, celebrating the release of her new book ”Something Lost, Something Gained,” Tuesday, Sept. 17, at 7 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at njpac.org or 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).
LIZ CHENEY TO SPEAK AT NJPAC IN NEWARK on Sunday, Oct. 27, at 3 p.m., Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, One Center St., Newark. Tickets $49.00 to $109 at: www.NJPAC.org or Box Office 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722)
NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON: SCIENCE AS A WAY OF KNOWING on Sunday, Dec. 1, at 3 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $39.50$99.50 at www.njpac.org.
MUSIC
ACCLAIMED PIANIST ANNE TAFFEL will give a solo recital at the Ethical Culture Society on Friday, Sept. 6. The concert is a preview of her new program entitled “From Mozart to Gershwin with Love,” which she will present in Vienna in October. The Ethical Culture Society of Essex County, 516 Prospect St., Maplewood. For more information, call 973.763.1905 or check out essexethical.org.
SINGER-SONGWRITER AND ROCK LEGEND
BOB MOULD gives a solo performance on Friday, Sept. 13, at 7 p.m., at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way South Orange. Ticket are $35 to $45 at https://sopacnow.my.salesforce-sites.com/
SPYRO GYRA BRINGS THEIR 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR to Union County Performing Arts Center, Hamilton Stage, Saturday, Sept. 14, 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., 360 Hamilton St., Rahway. Tickets at https://ucpac.org. Phone, (732) 499-8226. THE EMPRESS OF SOUL GLADYS KNIGHT RETURNS TO NJPAC on Friday, Sept 27, at 8 p.m., Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $59.50 to $139.50 and available at: www.NJPAC.org or 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722)
MUSICIAN AND COMPOSER HERBIE HANCOCK comes to NJPAC on Sunday, Sept. 29, at 7 p.m., Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $69 to $149 at ww.njpac.org
THE RASCALS 2024 PEOPLE GOT TO BE FREE TOUR on Friday, Oct. 4, at 8 p.m. UCPAC
Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway. For tickets, phone (732) 499-8226 or go to https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/51028324/the-rascals2024-people-got-to-be-free-tour-rahwayucpac-main-stage.
“RICK WAKEMAN – FINAL SOLO TOUR AN EVENING OF YES MUSIC AND OTHER FAVORITES” on Saturday, Oct. 5, 8 p.m., UCPAC Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway. Tickets, call (732) 499-8226.
FADO SINGER MARIZA BRINGS THE DRAMA TO NJPAC on Friday, Oct. 25, at 8 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets available at: www.NJPAC.org or at 888.GO.NJPAC
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.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
(888.466.5722). Price $39.50 to $99.50.
DAMIEN ESCOBAR AND KIM WATERS PERFORM on Friday, Oct. 25 at 8 p.m. at the Union County Performing Arts Center, Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway. Tickets available by calling (732) 499-8226.
THE ROBERT CRAY BAND – GROOVIN’ 50 YEARS on Saturday, Oct. 26, at 8 p.m., Union County Performing Arts Center, Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway. Tickets at (732) 499-8226 or upac.org.
SINGER, SONGWRITER, ACTRESS, AND AUTHOR LEANN RIMES is scheduled to appear on the Kean Stage at Kean University on Saturday, Nov. 9 at 7:30 p.m. at Wilkins Theatre, 1000 Morris Ave., Union. Visit keanstage.com for tickets and more information.
JAZZ ROCKER CINDY BLACKMAN SANTANA TAKES TO THE STAGE AT NJPAC on Sunday, Nov. 17, at 3 p.m., Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets $69 at www.njpac.org.
ORCHESTRA OF ST. PETER BY THE SEA HOLIDAY CONCERT Saturday, Nov. 30 at 3 p.m., UCPAC Main Stage, 1601 Irving St. Rahway. Phone, (732) 499-8226
SMOKEY ROBINSON RETURNS FOR AN INTIMATE EVENING PERFORMING HIS MOTOWN HITS at NJPAC on Friday, Dec. 6, at 8 p.m., Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St. Tickets are $49.50 to $169.50 and available at www.NJPAC.org or Box Office 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).
BROADWAY STAR MANDY GONZALEZ to perform a wide array of beloved holiday standards, including "Feliz Navidad," "All I Want for Christmas is You," and "Into the Unknown" from Disney's Frozen II, on Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets at https://www.sopacnow.org/
AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH DAVID FOSTER & KATHARINE MCPHEE on Thursday, Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $49.50 - $109.50; NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, One Center Street, Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org.
NEFESH MOUNTAIN BRINGS THEIR THE LOVE & LIGHT TOUR to the South Orange Performing
Arts Center on Sunday, Dec. 15 at 7:30 pm. Tickets starting at $25. CHRISTMAS WITH CECE WINANS LIVE IN CONCERT AT NJPAC on Friday, Dec. 20, at 8 p.m., Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St. Tickets $49.50 to $129.50 at www.NJPAC.org or Box Office 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).
THE CHAPIN FAMILY WILL BRING THE SONGS OF HARRY CHAPIN TO LIFE IN “HARRY CHAPIN’S GREATEST STORIES LIVE” at Wilkins Theatre on Friday, Jan. 24 at 7:30 p.m., 1000 Morris Ave., Union. Tickets can be purchased online at keanstage.com or by contacting the Box Office at (908) 737-7469.
OPERA
AN EVENING OF OPERA’S MOST TREASURED MASTERPIECES presented by New Jersey Opera Theater on Saturday, Sept. 21, at 7 p.m. (NOTE, the performance of Opera Gems originally scheduled for Friday, April 5 has been postponed to Saturday, Sept. 21. Tickets for April 5 will be honored for the new date. Email boxoffice@ucpac.org or call 732-499-8226 with any questions.) UCPAC Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway. Phone, (732) 499-82 AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS 2024: NEW JERSEY OPERA THEATER at UCPAC on Sunday, Dec. 15 at 3 p.m. UCPAC Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway. Phone (732) 499-8226.
THEATER
SCOTT ORGAN’S “DIVERSION” will be performed by Premiere Stages at Kean University at the Bauer Boucher Theatre Center, Vaughn Eames Hall, 1000 Morris Ave.,, Union. Selected as the winner of the 2023 Premiere Play Festival, “Diversion” runs Sept. 5 to Sept. 22, Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays, Sept. 7 and 14 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21 at 3 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. and at 2 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20. Tickets are $35 standard, $25 for senior citizens and Kean alumni and staff, $20 for
patrons with disabilities and $15 for students. Tickets for the Opening Night performance on Friday, Sept. 6 are $50 and include a reception. To purchase tickets, call the box office at 908-737-7469 or go to premierestagesatkean.com
"THE THORN," portrayal of the passion of Jesus, will be performed on Wednesday, Sept. 18, at 7 p.m. NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets can be purchased at NJPAC.org or by calling 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722) or by visiting the NJPAC Box Office.
NATIONAL LAMPOON’S ANIMAL HOUSE (IN 35MM) Thursday, Sept. 19, doors open at 6 p.m. with organ Concert on “Biggest Little Wurlitzer” at 6:30 p.m. The film starts at 7 p.m. Tickets: $13; Day of Show: $18. UCPAC Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway.
SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE LIVE IN CONCERT at NJPAC, Sunday, Sept. 22, NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $29 to $69 at www.njpac.org.
SILENT MOVIE DAY 2024 CELEBRATION featuring Laurel & Hardy in “Habeas Corpus” and Buster Keaton in “Steamboat Bill, Jr.” with organ accompaniment by Ian Fraser on the “Biggest Little Wurlitzer” on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2 p.m. Tickets: $13; Day of Show: $18, call (732) 499-8226. UCPAC Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway.
LUCIE ARNAZ CELEBRATES A LIFE ON STAGE, looking back at some of the roles she has had on stages throughout the world. With anecdotes and fond memories about her co-stars, directors and musical collaborators, Enlow Recital Hall, 215 North Ave., Hillside, on Sunday, Sept. 29 at 7 p.m.
TANGO LOVERS PERFORMS THEIR SHOW
“VOLVER 2” at Wilkins Theatre on Saturday, Oct. 5 at 7:30 p.m. “Volver 2,” 1000 Morris Ave, Union. Tickets can be purchased online at keanstage.com or by contacting the Box Office at (908) 737-7469.
THE ITALIAN CHICKS, a blend of comedy, music, storytelling, and dancing, transporting the audience to a place where the joy of shared moments takes center stage, perform on Saturday, Oct. 12, 8 p.m. at at Union County Performing Arts Center, Hamilton Stage, 360 Hamilton St., Rahway.
AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER IN CONCERT on Sunday, Oct. 13, at 3 p.m. at NJPAC Prudential
Hall, 1 Center St., Newark, New Jersey. Audiences will immerse themselves in a two-hour odyssey with a live orchestra bringing the show’s iconic musical score to life. Tickets are $29 to $69 at www.njpac.org
“METROPOLIS” WITH ORGAN ACCOMPANIMENT by Ian Fraser on the “biggest little Wurlitzer” on Thursday, Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $13 in advance and $18 on the day of show. A screening of Fritz Lang’s 1927 classic “Metropolis,” a visually stunning silent film with organ accompaniment. WRITER AND CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIVIST NIKKI GIOVANNI PRESENTS HER POETRY WITH MUSICIANS JAVON JACKSON AND CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE on Saturday, Oct. 19, at 2 p.m., NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets $25 to $35 at www.njpac.org.
SINGER, SONGWRITER, ACTIVIST AND POET JOAN BAEZ PRESENTS HER POETRY on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024 at 8 p.m., NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $25 to $35 at www.njpac.org.
XTREME QUEEN, THE LEGACY OF FREDDIE MERCURY at Drew University Concert Hall, Madison, on Oct. 19 at 8 p.m. Xtreme Queen’s concerts are an immersive multimedia experience; a blend of music and visual artistry, uniting fans in a shared chorus of anthems like “We Are the Champions” and “We Will Rock You.” Tickets available online @ xtremeQueenatDrew.eventbrite.com or call GDP@ 917-567-5842
SWING WITH THE RAT PACK and immerse yourself in a musical extravaganza that resurrects the magic of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and Marilyn Monroe. At The Concert Hall at Drew University in Madison, on Oct. 20 at 3 p.m. Tickets at TheRatPackatDrew.Eventbrite.com or call 917-567-5842.
CIRQUE KALABANTÉ PRESENTS “AFRIQUE EN CIRQUE” at Wilkins Theatre on Sunday, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. Afrique en Cirque is a show by Yamoussa Bangoura, inspired by daily life in Guinea. This performance shares the beauty, youth and artistry of African culture. Wilkins Theatre, 1000 Morris Ave, Union Tickets can be purchased online at keanstage.com.
Photo club plans ‘Show and Tell’ meeting IN MEMORIAM
The Essex Photo Club will hold its first meeting of the new season on Thursday, Sept. 5 at 7:30 p.m. and it will be an in-person only meeting at the United Methodist Church, 8 Academy Road, Caldwell.
It will be a “Show and Tell” opportunity for members to exhibit photos taken during the summer, according to a press release from the club, which said there would be no judging, just fun showing and telling.
On Thursday, Sept. 19 at 7:30 p.m.,, there will be an in-person only meeting at the United Methodist Church as the club returns to its monthly competitions of projected images.
They will be judged by Jennifer Dooley who will critique and rate the digital images. Dooley is an accomplished photographer with a keen eye for capturing incredible glimpses of humanity, nature, and color, the release said.
She has been a judge for 8 years and when she judges she considers the subject and has a keen eye that always gravitates towards graphic shapes, patterns, perspective and leading lines which are found everywhere and in everything in the photo. She is an astutely qualified NJFCC judge, a member of Monmouth Camera club and active in the Camera Naturalist Photo Club.
Club members will submit pictorial and nature images on the beginner, intermediate and salon levels of photography. For the first time, however, the club will combine the judging of a new category, Creative Pictorial Competition, for all levels. This is an excellent opportunity to learn what makes a great competitive image, the release said.
For more information visit www.essexphotoclub.org, visit Facebook, or call Catherine Kuzik-Fernandez at 862-485-7474.
• BEREZNAK – Sheilah A., of Scotch Plains, formerly of Belleville; June 29. Used to work in insurance. Wife, mother, sister, 70.
• CARUSO – Edward Roger, of Belleville; Aug. 17. U.S. Marine Corps veteran, police investigator and detective. Husband, father, grandfather, 82.
• DUKE – Kenneth Vincent, of Nutley; June 15. Army veteran. Captain of Nutley Auxiliary Police Department. Widower, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, 87.
• GALIFI – Josephine C., of Nutley; Aug. 13. Mother, sister, grandmother, cousin, 75.
• GUMENY – Eirik A., of Nutley; July 8. Book writer. Published several sci-fi adventure books. Member of the Knights of Columbus. Husband, brother, 43.
• HACKER – Elizabeth A., of West Caldwell, formerly of Belleville, Cedar Grove; July 23. Mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 101.
• LESLIE – Claudette Angela, of Belleville; June 7. Wife, mother, grandmother, 68.
• PANLONE – Marguerite “Peggy,” of Allentown, Pa., formerly of Belleville; Aug. 15. Nurse’s aide. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 96.
• PASQUARIELLO – Marie A., of Verona, formerly of Belleville and Bedminster; Aug. 9. Worked at Riker Danzig Law Firm, Morristown. Widow, grand aunt, 92.
• PETRAITIS – Daniel James, of Avon-by-the-Sea, formerly of Franklin Township, Hawthorne, Kearny and Belleville; June 14. Brother, uncle, 43.
• RUFFO – Esther Ruth, of Nutley; June 10. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, 96.
• SCHWEIKERT – Mary Rita, of Verona, formerly of North Arlington, Nutley and Hackettstown; Aug. 6. Director, Palisades General Hospital. Wife, mother, 81.
In Memoriam is a weekly feature compiled by the news staff from various sources. We also provide the opportunity for families and funeral directors to publish a more extensive, special notice about their loved one called an obituary. These notices are published on our website immediately and then in the next edition of this newspaper. To place a paid obituary send an email to obits@thelocalsource.com or fax to 908-688-0401. Family and friends’ submissions must include sender’s name, address, phone and the name of the funeral home. Call 908-686-7850 for assistance. LIKE
healthy living
Local songwriter releases new single
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
Rosanna O’Brien, a songwriter and musician from Nutley, just released a new single, “Capture the Flag.”
It’s a song about hope, optimism, reassurance, and communing with our past selves.
O’Brien, who performs under the moniker Roe Knows Best, calls the song “a letter written to our younger selves with the promise that despite the unavoidable turbulence of youth, everything that seems insurmountable and impossible will work itself out in the end.”
“I thought it turned out beautifully,” said O’Brien. “In quiet moments, that’s when melodies come to me. It came out of nowhere. It started to evolve and grow.”
O’Brien is nearly a lifelong resident of
Nutley, moving to the town when she was just 3 years old. And, she said she always had a connection to music. Her mom played violin in high school, and she had a great aunt who played mandolin.
“There’s a VHS tape where my mom is singing me Christmas carols and my jaw is open like it’s the greatest thing I ever heard in my life,” she said. “I felt so drawn to it [music]. Whatever cassettes were in the car. I have distinct memories of Billy Joel, Fleetwood Mac, ‘Rumors.’ I remember loving them to this day.”
O’Brien began taking music lessons at a very young age—from kindergarten. “My ear began developing through lessons,” she said.
But by the time she was 13 or 14, it was a struggle to practice. However, inspired by pop punk bands like Green Day and
Good Charlotte, O’Brien was “blown away.” Her parents got her a cheap acoustic guitar. She never took a lesson, yet her ear training developed from all the years of piano classes. “I really credit ‘American Idiot’ by Green Day,” she said. “I must play guitar.”
As for her own music, O’Brien describes it as “pop punk or indie, rock adjacent, indie rock inspired.” But as for her messaging, she just tries to carry herself as an authentic person. “Songwriting as a ‘pay it forward’ perspective,” she said. “Bands and artists helped me throughout my life. I’m clearly writing from a standpoint, ‘What do I have a need to get out and say?’ I’m connecting to someone else as well, hoping that I can help others in the process too. Life is really difficult. There’s emotional ups and downs with every day. I love that sense of community that music brings.”
O’Brien graduated from Ramapo College in 2013 with a degree in music. In May of 2020, O’Brien released the “Muscle Memory” EP, followed by the “Northbound” EP in July 2022, which was recorded and mixed by Ace Enders of The Early November and I Can Make A Mess.
In October 2022, O’Brien opened for The Early November and Vinnie Caruana at The Stone Pony in Asbury Park. “That was the biggest venue I played,” she said. “How legendary for New Jersey lore. The Stone Pony was a pinnacle point.”
Though O’Brien also has a day job, her career in music certainly has its moments.
“Even if I sell a shirt at a show, it’s a beautiful thing,” she said. “It means I hopefully connected with them (the audience) on some level. It’s certainly always a work in progress. One summer I read a book on lyric writer. What can I be doing better? Education is a work in progress.”
When O’Brien isn’t working on music, she loves to read. She’s currently re-reading “The Princess Diaries.”
“Capture the Flag ended up being a song about connecting your inner child,” she said. “What would you say to your younger self? It’s similar fashion. That’s the vibe lately.”
Visit Roe Knows Best at: https://roeknowsbest.com/
Garden Party will raise funds for NFSB
NUTLEY — The Garden Party will return to the Mountsier-Hardie Garden on Sept. 14, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The party is the largest fundraiser of the year for Nutley Family Service Bureau, the 111-year old non-profit organization which provides mental health counseling, a food pantry, case management, and other social services to the area.
The event will be catered by Nutley restaurant Mamma Vittoria, with other restaurants also contributing, according to a press release from organizers.
Several entertainers are donating their talents to the event, including:
• Sheldrake Lukas, an opera and classical singer;
• The Sebek Tenors, a Nutley-based singing group;
• Xandt Wyntreez, a poet and spoken word artist;
• Mina Greiss Band, a Nutley-based pop and soul band;
• Ian Frobose Trio, a Nutley-based jazz band featuring Vince Villanueva and Thaddeus Expose;
• Pete Contini, a Nutley native and Sticky Wickets member, playing guitar and singing;
• Jerome Bongiorno, playing jazz guitar;
• Karen Trindle, a harpist.
NFSB Trustees Taji Karim-Reisch and Jennifer Boyes will serve as event cochairs.
The Mountsier-Hardie Garden was designed by landscape architect Richard Hartlage and is owned by Silas Mountsier and Graeme Hardie.
The two-acre space is generally not open to the public and features grand views, areas of reflection, design sculptures, and hundreds of exceptional foliage and flower varietals. . Mountsier and Hardie have been steadfast supporters of Nutley Family Service Bureau for many years.
Tickets and sponsorships are on-sale now at www.NutleyFamily.org. Tickets are $75 in advance and $85 at the door. There is a VIP ticket option of $150 which includes early entry, a gift bag, and preevent reception.
Photo Courtesy Rosanna O’Brien
Rosanna O’Brien, a Nutley resident, recently released a single ‘Capture the Flag.’
2024 2024
HIGH SCHOOL HIGH SCHOOL
FOOTBALL F A
Belleville Bucs boast strong experience
By Joe Ragozzino Sports Editor
Despite posting just one victory during the past two seasons, the Belleville High School football team is looking to turn things around this fall.
After going 1-9 in in 2022, with the lone win coming against North Bergen on the road in the season finale, the Bucs went winless during a nine-game season a year ago.
As a result, they have been placed in the Super Football Conference–Ivy White Division this season. The Ivy divisions comprise teams that have struggled to compete recently and are not eligible for the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association’s state sectional playoffs.
Two years ago, in Brian Antab’s first season as the head coach, the Bucs were experienced on the line, but inexperienced in the skill positions. Last year, they graduated a lot of those linemen.
However, Antab is excited about the fact that there is experience at every position group.
“With this new league that we are joining, we’re looking to be competitive,” said Antab during practice at BHS’ Municipal Stadium/Doc Ellis Field on Wednesday, Aug. 14. “No more excuses. We’re not a young team anymore. This is a varsity team full of junior and senior players that have experience on the field and know what is expected of them when they get out there.”
The Bucs return junior Jordan Armstrong and senior Anthony Torres, who were in a battle for the starting quarterback job. Torres played in his sophomore year, but missed a lot of time last year due to an elbow injury, while Armstrong gained some playing time as a freshman and gained significant playing time last year.
Seniors Elijah Pickering and Anthony Giunta will be the main receiving targets.
They both also will play in the secondary on defense.
The Bucs have a strong returning weapon in senior running back Jeremiah Cook. In his sophomore year, Cook had some big games, rushing for 1,149 yards and nine touchdowns. Last year, he played through injury and managed to rush for 546 total yards and five TDs. But make no mistake, Cook is tough to bring down with his speed and physical style.
“He’s a talented player,” Antab said. “He’s a strong, physical runner. He’s got great balance and breaks away and gets into the open field as well. We’re looking for a big year out of him.”
Seniors AJ Clenaghan, Ahmad Mosley and Arian Cedeno are seniors who will anchor the offensive line.
Defensively, Antab has been encour-
aged by the physical development of the group, noting they have hit the weight room during the offseason.
The linebackers are senior Demetri Moya; juniors Josiah Morton and Jaydan McDaniel; and sophomore James Williams. Junior end Caleb Love will lead the line.
The depth is a bit of a concern. Antab is hoping that victories on the field will entice more students to come out and join the team.
“We’re hoping to win some games, get some excitement in the program,” Antab said. “We want to build more momentum around the program and get these kids out there playing.”
Antab is preaching a never-slow-down mentality that will go a long way toward
See BUCS, Page 23
Photos by Joe Ragozzino
Above left, a ball carrier bursts ahead; above right, two linemen work on a blocking drill; and below; a player attempts a catch during the Bucs’ practice session on Wednesday, Aug. 14, at Municipal Stadium.
(Continued from Page 22)
creating a winning culture.
“We want to compete with every rep in practice, every play in every game. We feel very good about this group that we are bringing back. We’re looking to have a lot more success than we’ve had, take those growing pains and learn from them.”
The other teams in the Ivy–White Division are Cliffside Park–Ridgefield, Dickinson, Ferris, Kearny, Memorial of West New York, and North Bergen.
NOTES – The Bucs had had some recent success. They went 7-3 in 2019 and 6-4 in 2021 under then-head coach Jermain Johnson, though they did not make the state sectional playoffs in those seasons. Johnson is now in his third year as
the Montclair High School head coach. Because of the move to the SFC–Ivy White Division, the Bucs will not face rival Nutley for the first time since 2019. They had met every year since 1944, except for just three seasons (2016, 2017 and 2019).
Schedule
• Sept. 7: at Ferris (Jersey City), 1 p.m.
• Sept. 13: vs. North Bergen, 7 p.m.
• Sept. 20: at Northern Valley–Demarest, 6 p.m.
• Sept. 27: at Cliffside Park–Ridgefield, 6 p.m.
• Oct. 4: vs. Dickinson (Jersey City), 7 p.m.
• Oct. 11: at Memorial (West New York), 7 p.m.
• Oct. 18: vs. Kearny, 7 p.m.
Above, a receiver breaks free after making a catch as a teammate gives chase; below left, sophomore linebacker James Williams drops back in coverage; and below right; junior quarterback Jordan Armstrong looks to hand the ball to a teammate during practice.
Photos by Joe Ragozzino
At left is Belleville head coach Brian Antab and, at right, a Belleville player holds the ball after making the catch at practice.
