Belleville Post - Dec 2021

BELLEVILLE POST ESSEXNEWSDAILY.COM

Post 105 retires flags

— See Page 6

NJ to buy greenway

— See Page 7

Bucs show tenacity

— See Page 18

DECEMBER 2021

VOL. 35 NO. 35

5K race raises funds for Belleville organizations supporting veterans

By Amanda Valentovic Staff Writer Belleville capped off a day of Veterans Day celebrations on Nov. 6 with a 5K road race throughout the town’s streets, raising $4,000 for the four veterans organizations based in the area.

This year’s 5K was Belleville’s third Veterans Day race; last year’s race had to be canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On Nov. 6, 111 runners set off from the Veterans Memorial to run 3.1 miles, some preparing for their runs in the New York City Marathon the following day.

“The veteran community needs so much love,” race organizer Lucy Del Gaudio, a Belleville resident and a U.S. Army veteran, said in an interview with the Belleville Post at the event. “I’m happy with the turnout; it’s good that we’re able to give back.”

The race itself raised $3,600; the township donated another $400 to round the total up so each organization — American Legion Post 105, American Legion Post 299, Disabled American Veterans and Amvets Post 26 — can receive $1,000.

Del Gaudio served in the Army in the 1990s during Operation Desert Storm and said that she is one of the younger veterans in town. Many members of the veterans organizations are older, as younger military veterans tend not to get as involved once they return home.

“I’m a younger veteran,” she said.

“They tend to be a little bit older. It’s a mostly older population, but we want to prepare our environment for those younger generations so they have a community to come back to.”

Del Gaudio is an advocate for veterans, especially for female veterans and military members who have been assaulted. She was an organizer of a ceremony held for Vanessa Guillen, an Army soldier

Photos by Amanda Valentovic

Above, runners start the Veterans Day 5K race on Nov. 6. Below, members of Belleville veterans organizations, Mayor Michael Melham and event organizer Lucy Del Gaudio display the check to be donated at the end of the race.

who was killed on a base in Fort Hood, Texas, by another soldier in 2020. The Belleville veterans community, which is sizable, and the community at large, has been supportive.

“The community has been incredibly open armed,” she said. “They’ve been very kind to us, and it’s nice that they’ve embraced a Latina veteran.”

Earlier in the day, Belleville’s Veterans Day parade stepped off and wound its way around town before Riverdale Avenue was renamed in honor of Michael Donnelly, a

lifelong Belleville resident and Vietnam War veteran who was a double amputee due to diabetes complications brought on by exposure to Agent Orange. Donnelly died in August.

Additionally, a Purple Heart monument was dedicated before the race’s starting gun sounded, honoring Belleville residents who were wounded or killed while serving.

“People have really responded to it, we got a lot of local support,” Mayor Michael See RACERS, Page 4

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Belleville Post — December 2021 — 3

For Veterans Day, Belleville says a big thank you Belleville always looks to Veterans Day as a time to recognize those men and women from its tight-knit community who have selflessly served our country.

This year, the community took extra time to remember the sacrifice and service of Michael Donnelly, a Vietnam War veteran who died Aug. 7.

Friends, family members and neighbors gathered Nov. 6 for a street dedication on Riverdale Avenue in honor of Donnelly, who had both legs amputated after being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes because of Agent Orange exposure.

Donnelly died at his home on Riverdale Avenue at age 75, with his wife, Joyce, by his side.

Donnelly was Belleville, through and through. He grew up playing Little League baseball and graduated from Belleville High School. After serving his country, he settled down in Belleville with his wife to raise their three daughters, Maureen, Trecia and Susan.

“We celebrate the great sacrifice made

by Michael Donnelly, and we recognize his courage in the face of enormous challenges,” Mayor Michael Melham said.

“There are countless others in Belleville and beyond who have also served our country. To them, this is a time to say ‘thank you.’ We pause to remember you on Veterans Day, but you are never far from our thoughts every day of the year.”

The street dedication kicked off a day

Photos Courtesy of Belleville Township

Belleville residents and officials join veterans on Saturday, Nov. 6, as the town commemorates Veterans Day. of events commemorating Veterans Day, a federal holiday observed each Nov. 11 with parades, ceremonies, speeches and concerts across the United States.

Belleville’s annual Veterans Day Parade stepped off Saturday, Nov. 6, at noon, winding through the township and ending near Union and Tiona avenues.

That’s where a ceremony was held, near the Veterans Memorial.

The memorial is inscribed with these words: “My stone is red for the blood they shed / The medal I bear is my country’s way to show they care / If I could be seen by all mankind maybe peace will come in my lifetime.”

The day was capped off by the Veterans Day 5K Run/Walk. The event raised about $4,400, which will be donated evenly to four local veterans groups.

Earlier this year, Belleville became the first town in Essex County to be recognized as a Purple Heart municipality, honoring and remembering military personnel wounded or killed in combat with hostile forces. The Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 366 relocated from Clifton to Belleville and is headquartered at American Legion Post 105 on Washington Avenue.

4 — December 2021 — Belleville Post

Belleville to receive $668,869 in municipal aid funds

By Yael Katzwer Editor Gov. Phil Murphy and New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti announced $161.25 million in fiscal year 2022 municipal aid grants, with 541 cities and towns across the state receiving funds to advance road, bridge, safety and quality-of-life improvements, according to an Oct. 26 press release.

Essex County received $10,415,608 in grant monies and $3,159,414 in urban allotment, for a combined $13,575,022.

Belleville received a grant of $615,000 and an urban allotment of $53,869, making for a combined $668,869.

According to Belleville township manager Anthony D. Iacono, the money will go toward reconstructing Harrison Street from Mill Street to the Bloomfield line,

Belleville Avenue from Washington Avenue to Main Street, and Sanford Avenue from Harrison Street to Magnolia Street.

“The scope of work includes replacing concrete in disrepair, constructing compliant ADA ramps, drainage and sanitary sewer repairs, milling and paving,” Iacono told the Belleville Post on Nov. 13. “The grant reduces the amount of funds the township will have to permanently bond at the end of the project.”

The competitive municipal aid grant program attracted 625 applications from 547 municipalities, with a total of $363 million requested. Project applications were evaluated and rated on their merits

by NJDOT staff and reviewed by an independent panel of New Jersey municipal engineers. This process resulted in 546 awards to 541 municipalities, totaling $161.25 million. The 2016 Transportation

Trust Fund renewal has made it possible to continue to award $161.25 million annually — more than double the $78.75 million that was available before the TTF renewal.

In addition, the extra funds have allowed the department to increase the number of municipalities receiving grants from approximately 370 a year prior to the TTF renewal to 541 municipalities this year.

“These funds are crucial to municipalities for the completion of projects that improve quality of life and safety for New Jersey residents,” Murphy said. “Under our administration’s leadership, the Transportation Trust Fund continues to bolster infrastructure statewide. I congratulate all municipalities that have received grants and look forward to them putting these dollars to use.”

“The Murphy administration is committed to improving local communities by

providing millions of dollars in aid to municipalities to make important safety, infrastructure and quality-of-life improvements without burdening local property taxpayers,” Gutierrez-Scaccetti said. “We are pleased to award grants to nearly every municipality in New Jersey.”

Under the grant program, each county is apportioned a share of the total funding based on population and the number of local centerline miles. Municipalities compete for portions of their county’s share. NJDOT provides 75 percent of the grant amount when a town is awarded a contract and the remaining 25 percent upon completion of the project. Of the $161.25 million, $10 million is allotted for municipalities qualifying for urban aid as defined under state law, with the amounts determined by the Department of Community Affairs.

Racers come out to run, participate in good cause (Continued from Page 1) Melham said in an interview with the Belleville Post at the event. “The veteran organizations couldn’t help us enough.”

Money was also raised for high school scholarships; Melham awards a graduating senior from Belleville High School a scholarship if they are either entering the military themselves or have a parent who is on active duty.

Warren Feldman, the owner of Signature Fitness in Belleville, was one of the day’s sponsors.

“What can you say about veterans, and police and firefighters?” Feldman said in an interview with the Belleville Post. “It’s amazing that people of all ages came out to participate. That comes from them fostering a community like this.”

According to Councilman Vinny Cozzarelli, the veterans organizations that received the race proceeds can decide what to do with it, whether it’s to keep their operations sustainable, award their own scholarships or include it in their annual budgets. The town doesn’t want to dictate what they do with the donations.

“We want to give them as much as we can,” Cozzarelli said in an interview with the Belleville Post at the event. “It’s the least we can do.”

Whatever the veterans decide to do, the money will ensure that the organizations will stick around a little while longer.

“We want to keep them alive,” Del Gaudio said. “We’re trying to change the culture of what it means to be part of a service organization.”

Photos by Amanda Valentovic

Above, race organizer Lucy Del Gaudio addresses attendees. At right, overall winner Milton Camas approaches the finish line.

Above left, Mayor Michael Melham, right, congratulates overall winner Milton Camas. Above right, Melham starts the Veterans Day 5K race. Below left is female first place finisher Eva Piechowski with Melham. Below right is Shannon McCabe, age 16, the top finisher in her age group, with Melham.

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Nutley Journal - BP — December 2021 — 5

6 — December 2021 — Nutley Journal - BP

American Legion Post 105 retires old U.S. flags On Friday, Nov. 5, American Legion Post 105 held a flag-retirement ceremony in the parking lot of the post, located at 621 Washington Ave. in Belleville. With Post 105 Legionnaires, members of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105 and friends of the post in attendance, more than 500 flags were retired in the scripted ceremony.

“Let these faded flags of our country be retired and destroyed with respectful and honorable rites and their places be taken by bright new flags of the same size and kind,” read Post 105 Cmdr. Joseph J.

Cobianchi as part of the ceremony for disposal of unserviceable flags.

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

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

Photos Courtesy of Rusty Myers

Above, dual member Ed Hall salutes the burning flags. Below left, Cmdr.

Joe Cobianchi reads the ceremony’s script. Below right, chaplain Ben Braubaut retires flags.

Participating in the flag-retirement ceremony are Jen LaBar, above left, and Sgt.-at-Arms Gary Cochia, above right.

CDI lab zeroes in on melanoma’s molecular spread The secret to melanoma’s metastatic spread could be a complex natural pathway it hijacks — one which may be a therapeutic target in combination with other targeted therapies and immunotherapies, according to new research published by Hackensack Meridian Center for Discovery and Innovation scientists.

The laboratory of Byungwoo Ryu and colleagues at the CDI in Nutley demonstrated that the pathway centered around a bone morphogenetic protein known as BMP6 might be the main way melanoma seeks to take over the body, according to the publication in the journal Molecular Cancer Research.

“Metastasis is the main reason cancer patients die,” said Ryu, an associate member of the CDI, and also a research member of the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, of which Hackensack University Medical Center’s John Theurer Cancer Center is part. “If we can prevent cell motility, we can prevent cancer from spreading — and save lives. That is what we are aiming to do through our science.”

“This is good work by the Ryu laboratory, and the findings are therapeutically relevant for melanoma, in terms of preventing metastases in the future,” said Dr. Benjamin Tycko, a member of the CDI and also an author of the paper. “This is the kind of translational work that could be a veritable boon for patients in the near future.”

Melanoma starts as a localized lesion, but once it

reaches the point of metastasis, it becomes a killer: Just 27 percent of the patients who reach stage 4 of the disease survive, even with the latest immunotherapies, according to the American Cancer Society.

Cancers are all known to take over natural processes of the body in order to promote their spread. Ryu and colleagues have identified perhaps the main culprit in the spread of melanoma: the silencing of a protein known as BMP6, or bone morphogenetic protein 6.

In a complex chain reaction, the BMP6 is silenced by an epigenetic “eraser complex” fostered by the cancer. The lack of BMP6 expression then cascades into abnormal silencing of an intracellular signaling pathway mediated by a protein called SMAD5, or Small Mothers Against Decapentaplegics 5. The ultimate effect downstream is the aberrant over-production of yet another protein.

This final step is exactly what the cancer seeks to spread beyond the initial lesion: since this final protein promotes cancer cell motility and cell migration, it allows the cancer cells to spread more quickly throughout the body, as Ryu and team demonstrated in an animal model of melanoma metastasis using clinical skin cancer samples.

The molecular chain-reaction connections were shown through the use of a noble small molecule compound called Corin, developed in the lab of Dr. Philip Cole, another one of the authors on the paper, from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical

School. The Corin was synthesized in Cole’s laboratory to inhibit the eraser complex, meaning it cuts off the cascade right at the beginning, before BMP6 is affected.

“We showed that, using the Corin, the cancer was not actively spreading and proliferating in the model,” said Ryu. “We believe the compound could be a therapeutic agent that could be extremely effective in combination with other clinically approved melanoma drugs. It could make a big difference for keeping the cancer cells from spreading and recurrence.”

The Ryu lab is conducting follow-up work using cuttingedge technologies and building a better metastasis model.

Two questions they hope to answer in the laboratory: how the protein at the end of the epigenetic cascade resulting in metastasis regulates the intrinsic machinery of cell motility that cancer cells hijack for spreading, and whether this final protein itself is a viable target for preventing melanoma from spreading, perhaps via adjuvant drugs in combination with other molecularly targeted therapies.

Additionally, the team is investigating other epigenetic eraser complexes that may be involved in metastatic cancer development and therapy resistance.

“This is the kind of bench science which promises great bedside benefits in the future,” said Dr. Ihor Sawczuk, the chief research officer and president of the northern region for Hackensack Meridian Health. “The CDI’s work is an investment into the health of our years to come.”

Belleville Post — December 2021 — 7

New Jersey to secure purchase rights for former Boonton Line to create Essex–Hudson Greenway After decades of local advocacy and outreach and more than three years of direct negotiations, the Essex–Hudson Greenway Coalition announced Nov. 12 that the state of New Jersey will secure purchase rights to nearly 9 miles of former railway, spanning two counties and eight municipalities in one of the most highly populated regions of northern New Jersey.

Under the agreement, announced by Gov. Phil Murphy, the state of New Jersey will purchase 135 acres of the former Boonton rail line from Norfolk Southern Railway for $65 million, a price negotiated by the Open Space Institute as part of a formal purchase agreement announced in July 2020.

The Essex–Hudson Greenway Coalition — comprising the OSI, the New Jersey Bike & Walk Coalition, and the September 11th National Memorial Trail Alliance — has been advocating for the project, which will create a green space that will provide walkers, runners, cyclists, hikers and others with a linear park and multiuse trail connecting Montclair, Glen Ridge, Bloomfield, Belleville, Newark, Kearny, Secaucus and Jersey City.

“Today’s announcement by the state of New Jersey completes the first major step in making this greenway a reality. We commend Gov. Murphy, all the local leaders and

ty leaders have been calling for the creation of a linear park on the former rail line property to create a safe, off-road trail to ride a bike and walk; ease traffic and offer active transportation options; create alternate commuting options; provide close-to-home, easy access to the outdoors; and bring much needed green space to urban communities that are traditionally and negatively affected by infrastructure development.

“This greenway project has been a major campaign of ours for nearly a decade, and we are thrilled that the state Photo Courtesy of the Open Space Institute has taken this critical step in making this dream a reality that will offer so many The rail tracks above are poised to become part of the Essex–Hudson benefits to all our residents,” said Debra Greenway, a 9-mile linear park connecting eight municipalities.

Kagan, executive director of the New Jerelected officials who recognized the extraor- the future of northeastern New Jersey,” sey Bike & Walk Coalition. “We want to dinary potential of the greenway, and our said Essex County Commissioner Brendan express our gratitude to Gov. Murphy and coalition partners — New Jersey Bike & Gill, a longtime advocate of the greenway. his staff, along with our coalition partWalk Coalition and the September 11th “Upon its completion, the EHG will serve ners, whose hard work has made this National Memorial Trail Alliance — who as a blueprint for future environmentally milestone possible. We also want to have been key partners in growing support friendly infrastructure projects nation- thank the many community organizafor the greenway,” said Kim Elliman, presi- wide, while helping our local communities tions and elected officials who lent their dent and CEO of OSI. “We are proud of the rebound from the financial challenges we vital support and the thousands of grassroots supporters who made their voices role we played to negotiate the deal, bring experienced due to the pandemic.” stakeholders together, and generate public In July 2020, OSI reached a prelimi- heard and took part in the effort to get us and private support for the initiative.” nary purchase and sale agreement with this far. This greenway will bring “Gov. Murphy’s announcement on the Norfolk Southern Railway for the proper- enhanced quality of life to the entire provision of funding for the Essex–Hud- ty in Essex and Hudson counties for the region, provide access to open space to See ESSEX–HUDSON, Page 10 son Greenway is a monumental step for purpose of the greenway. Local communi-

8 — December 2021 — Nutley Journal - BP

BULLETIN BOARD Celebrating the holidays Mayor Mauro G. Tucci and the Nutley Board of Commissioners will host Nutley’s annual Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 5, at 4:30 p.m. on Franklin Avenue between Chestnut and Church streets. The entire community is invited to attend this official kickoff of the holiday season.

“This event expresses everything that Nutley truly stands for: family, friends, unity and, of course, celebrating the traditions of the season,” Tucci said.

The ceremony will begin with the big man himself: Santa Claus will enter in style on a holiday float. Children will be given bells to ring as Santa makes his grand entrance in front of the Nutley

Oval. Children are encouraged to bring their letters to Santa, so they can place them in Santa’s mailbox.

This signature holiday event has been expanded to feature some new activities, including the addition of a synthetic ice rink on Franklin Avenue. Skates will be provided; residents should not bring their own.

Old-fashioned horse-and-carriage rides will be available on Booth Drive. A gourmet coffee truck, a life-size blow-up snow globe and the sounds of holiday music presented by DJMC Entertainment will be there too. Other activities include face painting and holiday craft sales.

The celebration will include entertainment from local musical groups, including

Beatriz Esteban-Messina, on Fridays, Dec. 10 and 17, at 8 p.m.; Saturdays, Dec. 11 and 18, at 2 and 8 p.m.; and Sundays, Dec. 12 and 19, at 2 p.m.

In the play, which is based on a true story, a young girl writes a letter to the editor of the New York Sun. “Dear Editor, I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says ‘If you see it in the Sun, it’s so.’ Please tell me the truth: Is there a Santa Claus?” Ed Mitchell, the editor, assigns Frank Church, a reporter on the verge of self‘Yes Virginia, There Is a destruction, the task of answering VirSanta’ at Little Theatre ginia’s question. Church’s reply has Nutley Little Theatre will present “Yes become one of the world’s most quoted Virginia, There Is a Santa Claus: A Radio and beloved editorials.

Play,” by Andrew J. Fenady, directed by See BULLETIN, Page 14 the John H. Walker Middle School concert choir, the Nutley High School strings ensemble, the NHS concert choir, the JHWMS jazz group, the NHS chamber singers and the NHS brass ensemble.

The tree lighting will take place at 6 p.m. At the conclusion of the celebration, all are invited to visit the live Nativity at the Vincent United Methodist Church from 6 to 6:45 p.m., with performances every 20 minutes.

JESSICA MENDEZ 862-260-1397 TTY: 711 NJ Lic. #3001230165 Authorized Agent Hablo español.

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Nutley Journal - BP — December 2021 — 9

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10 — December 2021 — Belleville Post

Belleville schools’ pink-out event raises awareness Belleville students, parents and faculty members hung pink ribbons in classrooms, affixed words of hope and inspiration to bulletin boards, and donned pink shirts, hoodies and sweaters. They turned every hallway, classroom and office in Belleville into a sea of pink. In many ways, Belleville School District’s sixth annual pink-out on Oct. 22 was the biggest one yet.

In all, $6,271.47 was raised for the American Cancer Society.

Belleville holds its pink-out each October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Belleville’s pink-out is a way to teach a new generation about a disease that affects one in eight women in the United States. Though breast cancer is much more prevalent among women, men can also be diagnosed with it.

And although breast cancer claims tens of thousands of lives in the United States each year, the annual pink-out, organized by the school district’s chief engagement and partnership officer, Diana Kelleher, draws its sense of hopefulness from the promise that a cure is not far away and from the strength displayed by those who have triumphed over the disease.

“It is amazing to see how our students, their parents and the district’s staff support this event and champion this cause,” Belleville Superintendent of Schools Richard D. Tomko said. “I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who was involved, wore pink and made a donation. We can only hope a cure is right around the corner.”

To learn more about breast cancer and other cancers, visit www.cancer.org.

Photo Courtesy of Belleville School District

Essex–Hudson Greenway park project moves forward (Continued from Page 7) underserved communities and be a landmark of development that promotes healthy communities.”

The proposed greenway follows the right-of-way of the eastern portion of NJ Transit’s former Boonton Line. Passenger service was discontinued on this portion of the line in 2002. Following termination of NJ Transit’s commuter service, limited freight service continued until the last rail

customer ceased operations in 2015. The greenway spans an average of 100 feet or more in width throughout its route.

“We are happy that the state of New Jersey has stepped forward to do their part to make sure that we can bring this valuable greenway and recreational space to the people,” said Thomas Baxter, president of the September 11th National Memorial Trail Alliance. “In addition to its impact at the local level, this project

has major national significance as a major New Jersey component of the recently designated 9/11 Memorial Trail. We extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to the governor, representatives of the various state departments, and our own community and elected leaders who help us reach this pivotal point. We continue to appreciate the ongoing support of the community, as well, and the countless members of the public who have been

advocates for the project over the years.”

OSI and its partners have already begun investing in planning, surveying, environmental assessments and more.

The project offers the potential to reduce traffic and stormwater runoff in towns along the rail line, improve transportation options for residents, and allow for improved infrastructure connectivity for things like broadband and emergency response.

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Holiday Gift Guide - Nutley Journal - BP — December 2021 — 1

Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Gift your child with tech safely this holiday season Are you wondering if this is the right year to gift your child a smartphone for the holidays?

While age may seem important, maturity levels play a big role in letting you know if your child is ready to handle the responsibility of owning a connected device. It’s always important to weigh the pros and cons.

The benefits of a smartphone and internet access are that they offer a wealth of educational opportunities for students.

Children are early adopters of the latest technology and in many cases, can absorb and digest information more easily and much nore quickly than adults.

The downside is that children have access to everything on the internet, including potentially inappropriate content.

The good news is that there are many safety and monitoring apps and tools available, some at low or no cost to you.

For example, T-Mobile offers Family Mode, an app that allows the primary account holder to monitor a child’s internet access when the app is downloaded on the device. T-Mobile also offers Family Allowances, an app that for a small

the ability to monitor your child’s web activity, limit daily phone access, and approve or decline downloadable app purchases. You can also check with your internet provider or wireless smartphone provider to see what child safety features are available with your current plan.

If your child isn’t quite ready for a phone, but you still want to have the ability to monitor and communicate with them, a connected smartwatch may be the next best option. T-Mobile recently launched SyncUP KIDS Watch, which features real-time location tracking, talk and text with approved contacts only, virtual boundary alerts, silent mode to use during school, and a help button that alerts preset emergency contacts when pushed. It has safety feature that parents want, but is also fun for kids, with a camera to snap and record moments, plus interactive games. To learn more, visit t-mobile.com.

Photo Courtesy of YakobchukOlena / iStock via Getty Images Plus Having safety tools and features availmonthly fee, allows you to assign their devices during certain times of the able at the swipe of your fingertips will put allowances for the number of minutes, day, such as school, during homework, your mind at ease and help create healthy texts, downloaded content and money dinner time or at night. habits when your child navigates the digispent on downloadable apps. It also Google Family Link is another option tal world, with or without you around. allows you to block your child’s use of that is free of cost and provides you with — StatePoint

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Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Five ways to protect your holiday season budget It may be the season of cheer, but for many, the holidays are rife with anxiety about expenses. A recent survey shows that staying on budget is Americans’ top concern this holiday season, followed by incurring long-term debt, shipping costs and being charged late or hidden fees.

Here are five tips to protect your holiday budget: 1. Set a spending cap with friends and family. Americans plan to spend $998 on gifts this holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation. ’Tis the season for giving, but make sure you don’t overspend. Know your budget upfront and communicate that with loved ones.

Another idea to limit spending is to put everyone’s name into a hat. Each person draws one name and buys a gift for just the person they selected. You can add a bit of intrigue by keeping the identity of your recipient a secret until you open gifts.

2. Take advantage of deal days. Timing is everything for getting the best prices.

Do your homework in advance to pay significantly less. The typical big sales days include Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which offers online deals focused on

tomer’s home if the business permanently closes within a year after purchase. Reimbursement coverage is limited to $500 per policy period.

4. Track when products are discounted with a browser extension. Do you want the best deals but don’t have the time to spend searching for them? There are extensions you can download on web browsers that will compare prices and even apply the best coupon codes at checkout.

5. Use credit card rewards. You’ve earned those points throughout the year and now is a great time to cash them in.

The simplest way to use points is for gift cards, as it’s one of the top requested gifts and there are many categories to choose from, including restaurants, clothing and Photo Courtesy of juliannafunk / iStock via Getty Images Plus grocery stores. Another option is to take clothing and travel. Plus, Super Saturday those still struggling during the ongoing advantage of the money saved from a before Christmas is great for last-minute pandemic. Erie Insurance is taking away statement credit to cover the expense of gifts. that concern with gift card reimburse- holiday gifts.

Being mindful of your spending now 3. Purchase gift cards with peace of ment coverage, which is provided to cermind. Gift cards are a popular, convenient tain eligible homeowners at no additional can help you have a low-stress holiday gift, but some would-be buyers may hesi- charge. The coverage provides reimburse- season and start the new year off on the tate to purchase them out of fear that the ment for up to $250 per gift card at local right foot.

— StatePoint business may end up closing, especially businesses within 100 miles of a cus-

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Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Top birthday gift ideas for the person who has it all

Photo Courtesy of Ross and Helen Photographers

fun by sharing it on social media too. And because SmashUps is a one-time fee, you can shower relatives or friends with personalized messages that will make them smile all year.

Custom gifts show true thoughtfulness and can make someone feel extra special on their birthday. Smashups are a fun and lighthearted way to virtually say “happy birthday” to friends, family members and co-workers.

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We all have someone who has more than enough clothes, jewelry, artwork and overall “stuff,” that you just don’t know where to begin finding a gift they’ll need or want. The next time you need to come up with a clever birthday gift idea for them, try one of the following categories: 1. Something they’ll use. Nowadays, there’s a good chance there’s a subscription box filled with items your recipient needs or will always use, from clothes, snacks and razors, to tools, toys and pet supplies.

For example, if your friend picks up wine every time they grocery shop, a subscription to a monthly wine club won’t go to waste. In fact, it will probably be an appreciated gift! Many boxes offer flexibility for the red, white or rose-all-day person’s preferences and include additions each month.

2. Something personalized. If you’re in search of creative birthday gift ideas, consider giving a custom gift.

This might sound like a pricey approach, but customization can be as simple as sending a fun, personalized ecard. With SmashUps from American Greetings, you can start by selecting a fully customizable video featuring some favorite famous faces, including Dolly Parton, Shaq and Alicia Keys. Next, you can personalize the video with a name and other custom elements, so the celebrity is singing directly to your loved one. Finally, you can instantly share the video with the birthday guy or gal by text or email, or you can let other friends join in on the

request. Maybe it’s a high-ticket item or maybe it’s something simple that other purchases just get prioritized over. If you know of such an item, consider giving it as a gift! Your friend will feel good receiving a gift from someone who was listening and understands them.

4. Something they didn’t know they needed. Sometimes, you can’t put your finger on a practical item that you know the person will use and have to use your best judgment. Though it could be as simple as a mug or digital picture frame, these are often the best gifts of all, because the people receiving them likely never thought of them either.

5. Something that requires thought. If the person you’re shopping for has a lot of “stuff,” stop thinking of additional items to give them. Shift your focus and gift them your time or attention. If it’s a significant other, plan a special date night on the town or in the house. If it’s a parent or grandparent, consider what experiences or events they might appreciate; maybe its going to a play, watching a movie or taking a trip as a family. Not all gifts have to cost a lot; in fact, some of the best gifts are ones that create memories.

For more clever birthday gift ideas and ways to celebrate, visit: www.americangreetings.com/smashups.

When it comes birthday gifts for those who have everything, don’t fret. With a bit of creativity, you can make their day special.

— StatePoint

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Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Ease the pain of holiday shipping with these tips Holiday plans may look different again this year. Some families will choose to host small gatherings, while others may celebrate from the comfort of home instead of traveling.

If you won’t be spending the holidays with loved ones — and if this season is anything like 2020 — you’ll likely be shipping gifts. Here’s how to ensure a timely, damagefree arrival.

Be aware of shipping deadlines Each year, the United States Postal Service and other major shipping companies release deadlines to help people plan timely delivery of packages during their busiest season of the year. Whether you’ll manually ship gifts or order them online, prioritizing these deadlines is key.

Give yourself ample time. Aim to have packages shipped about 10 to 12 days before the holiday. The USPS recommends no later than Dec. 15, 2021, for ground shipping.

Invest in a quality box While it may be tempting to use any old box you have hanging out in the garage, worn-down boxes are much more likely to crumple in-transit. Additionally, if the package is too big for its contents, you risk things rolling or shaking; if it’s too small, you risk tearing and breaking.

With this in mind, consider investing in new, quality boxes, like Duck Brand Kraft Box. They are cost-effective, made from recycled, durable materials, and are available in a variety of sizes, all of which meet postal regulations, so you can pick the best fit that protects from damage, while keeping shipping costs down.

Pick proper packing tape If you’re going to invest in shipping supplies, don’t forget to include a strong, easy-to-use packing tape.

Lower-quality options may lead to splitting or tearing, which is a recipe for disaster when shipping holiday presents — or even for storing decor until next year. Duck Max Strength Packing Tape offers premium quality and tough adhesion to keep boxes and packages secure during shipping. Stronger and more durable than ordinary tapes, this packing tape is designed to seal even the heaviest boxes safely and securely to help prevent items inside from being damaged during delivery.

Add an extra layer of protection Handle fragile packages with extra care by including the all-important layer of bubble cushioning. Bubble Wrap–brand cushioning easily conforms around treasured objects and helps prevent shifts and damage during shipping. The product’s air lock technology maintains consistent, light-as-air cushioning while filling empty voids in boxes, so items stay put. For best protection, make sure the bubbles are facing your gift to cushion impact.

Personalize the package If you prefer a greener option, Flourish Brand Kraft Paper is protective, versatile and sustainable. Made from 100-percent recycled material, the shipping paper can be easily added to standard curbside recycling bins.

Plus, it makes it easy to wrap up and ship out large boxes, and can be used to fill packaging voids, so items stay in place. Or, as a fun indoor activity throughout winter, kids may enjoy using Kraft Paper to create customized, DIY wrapping paper. Other special touches to your long-distance holiday delivery could be including a thoughtful note or adding a drop of essential oil to the ribbon.

The holidays can be stressful. When you plan ahead and have the proper supplies on-hand, you’ll be able to quickly cross “ship holiday gifts” off your to-do list and enjoy the magic of the season.

— StatePoint

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Holiday Gift Guide - Nutley Journal - BP — December 2021 — 7

Entertain for less money The holiday season brings an abundance of feelings that may include joy, comfort, gratitude and, unfortunately, stress. Don’t let the task of entertaining friends and family break the bank or your back.

Instead, create memorable gatherings with loved ones while saving time and money in the process using these hosting tips from the experts at Dollar General: Photo Courtesy of Deagreez / iStock via Getty Images Plus Delicate decor Creating the right ambiance in your space is key to holiday decorating success.

Begin by decluttering the areas of your home where you plan to entertain. Fill the extra spaces with seasonal decorations. Remember, elaborate, expensive items aren’t always needed to make a home look amazing. Decorations like small figurines, bowls filled with holiday candy or simple wreaths and garlands can do the trick of transforming your home into a winter wonderland!

Fruitful food With more guests comes more food, but it doesn’t have to mean spending more money. Shopping at discount retailers for essentials such as milk, eggs, bread and cheese can help stretch your budget. You can also make the switch to private brand items and save even more when buying foods for overnight guests, such as granola bars, cereal and snacks. Consider purchasing these household basics from a local Dollar General store, which also provides digital coupons to help you save even more.

Supplies stock-up Of course, to entertain, you will need supplies. Stocking up on cleaning essentials, everyday cooking ingredients and entertaining basics early in the season is a great way to have everything needed before the party begins. Consider adding items such as trash bags, cutlery, paper products, other decorations and even small gifts.

By using smart shopping strategies, you can entertain during the holidays with ease instead of stress.

— StatePoint

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Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Tech to the rescue: options to save consumers’ time Despite increased digital options, the typical consumer still spends 13 hours on hold each year! And of course, there are plenty of things that most people would rather be doing with that time, particularly during the busy holiday season.

According to a new survey conducted by Clickatell, a mobile communications and chat commerce company, all of those 13 hours are hours people would rather be spending with family, relaxing or even doing chores.

The same survey also revealed that waiting on hold isn’t just annoying for consumers, it can have a negative effect on brands too. Of those surveyed, 31 percent said even spending 5 to 9 minutes on hold can lead to negative feelings toward a brand, and 23 percent said they are completely likely to give up on a purchase or brand if they fail to meet them on their preferred communication channel.

“Retailers and businesses need to more broadly ensure that they’re providing an adequate experience for all customers,” said Jennifer Shambroom, chief marketing officer at Clickatell.

According to Clickatell experts, here are some of the strategies that companies can adopt to create better experiences for their customers this holiday season and beyond: • Turn consumers’ irritable hold times into helpful conversations with an end-to-end chat solution that enables live agents to communicate with customers over popular chat apps.

Photo Courtesy of GaudiLab / iStock via Getty Images Plus

• Fifty percent of millennials have already communicated with a business via chat apps in the past and 71 percent use chat apps at least daily. Incorporate a payment link in chat apps, such as WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger to enable customers to pay for a purchase where

they are already spending their time. For example, Clickatell’s new Chat 2 Pay solution allows businesses to send consumers a chat message containing a web link that easily takes them through the checkout process. They don’t have to disclose credit card details over the phone or use a point-of-sale device.

• Respond to customers 24/7 with chat communication in a contact center that uses a combination of both AI and human respondents.

• Use ongoing and cumulative data resources to understand how and when customers prefer to communicate — via email, SMS, phone, etc.

• Employ marketing strategies that provide customers with personalized product recommendations that fit their wants and needs. This will require analyzing customers’ behaviors and promoting products based on assumptions and their past purchase histories.

To learn more about the solutions businesses are using to provide better customer service, visit clickatell.com.

“During the hectic holiday season, customers don’t want to spend their time on hold — they want to spend it enjoying their personal time off with their families.

Thanks to new tech solutions, businesses have the ability to deliver that for customers, while simultaneously helping build brand loyalty in the process. It’s a win-win for all,” said Shambroom.

— StatePoint

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Holiday Gift Guide - Nutley Journal - BP — December 2021 — 9

Add music to your holidays Music is powerful. Here is how to include music in your holiday celebrations to set a joyful, festive mood and help create happy family memories.

1. Whistle while you work: Decking the halls shouldn’t be a chore. It should be a fun holiday tradition. Create a playlist of all your favorite carols, old standards and pop-infused holiday hits. As you adorn the tree, decorate the cookies and hang the stockings, pop on your playlist to fill the house with your personalized sounds of the season.

2. Create your own music: With more time off from school and work and a treasure trove of seasonal music to draw inspiration from, this can actually be the ideal time of year to take up a new instrument or embark on music lessons. For beginners, consider a Castiotone. User-friendly and created with the goal of making music fun for players of all abilities, it connects to the Chordana Play App, which offers interactive, at home, beginner piano lessons. Plus the keyboard features built-in Christmas carols, perfect for sing-alongs!

And because it’s portable, you can “gather round the piano” wherever you spend the holidays.

3. Go caroling: Caroling is one of best ways to spread holiday cheer among neighbors and members of your community. Organize friends and family to join you. You may even consider turning your efforts into a fundraiser for a local charity or a music-related nonprofit such as

Photo Courtesy of Deagreez / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Music & Memory, which helps individuals with cognitive and physical conditions engage with the world and ease pain through their favorite music.

4. Attend a performance: From “The Nutcracker” to “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” there are many classic holiday performances staged at theaters all around the country. Enjoy a live show or watch your favorite seasonal musicals at home.

Through the power of listening and creating your own music, you can fill your seasonal traditions with joy and make happy holiday memories that last for years to come.

— StatePoint

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10 — December 2021 — Holiday Gift Guide - Nutley Journal - BP

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Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Protect children by steering clear of knockoff toys In the scramble to get your hands on the toys your children want this holiday season, experts warn that you should prioritize safety by sticking to age-appropriate toys and by avoiding counterfeit alternatives at all costs.

“Illicit sellers of counterfeit toys may dupe parents into thinking they’re buying the real thing, or entice them with lower prices or the promise of getting the ‘hot toy’ of the holiday season,” said Joan Lawrence, The Toy Association’s “Toy Safety Mom” and senior vice president of standards and regulatory affairs. “What’s scary is that these illegitimate sellers are actually peddling fake and unsafe products that oftentimes don’t comply with product safety laws. That’s why we always urge parents to shop from reputable brands and sellers whose toys have been tested for compliance with over 100 different safety standards and tests required by law.”

With the shipping crisis predicted to have widespread impacts on the availability of this holiday season’s most popular toys, counterfeits are likely to be even more enticing. And new research conducted by OnePoll on behalf of The Toy Association suggests that consumers are not always as vigilant as they should be, with 65 percent of parents saying they would purchase knockoff or counterfeit toys if they couldn’t get their hands on the original item and 63 percent indicating they would buy counterfeits if they were cheaper. Indeed 1 in 10 parents are not even aware that counterfeit toys can be dangerous for children to play with.

Photo Courtesy of Nattakorn Maneerat / iStock via Getty Images Plus

As you go about looking to snag a hot toy this holiday season, steer clear of counterfeit toys that are not safe or appropriate for your child by following these tips from PlaySafe.org: 1. Shop only from reputable brands and sellers. Their toys have been tested for compliance with more than 100 different safety standards and tests required by law.

2. Make sure the brand you’re purchasing from has a professional-looking website. Can’t find a website? That may be a red flag that you are dealing with an illicit seller.

3. If a product’s reviews are negative, or if there aren’t many, it’s a clue the product could be a fake.

4. Poorly photoshopped pictures, typos or spelling mistakes in the online description or packaging are other clues that the product could be illegitimate, and therefore unsafe.

5. Can’t find a toy on your child’s wish list? Wait for a trusted retailer to restock the product. Buying fake or cheaper alternatives is just not worth the risk.

In addition to avoiding knockoff toys, helping ensure your child’s safety during the gift-giving season also means shopping for toys only appropriate for their age.

According to The Toy Association survey, 76 percent of parents read age recommendations on toy packaging before purchasing. However, 40 percent admitted they view age labels on toys as suggestions instead of a warning, and 68 percent would give their child a toy recommended for older children. Be sure to follow age recommendations on toy packaging, which are not mere suggestions but firm recommendations made by safety experts and based on childhood developmental stages.

For more safe shopping tips, visit www.PlaySafe.org, a premier toy safety resource site.

“With your vigilance, you can keep the merriest time of year happy, healthy and joyful by ensuring your child doesn’t unwrap a potential safety hazard,” said Lawrence.

— StatePoint

HAPPY HOLIDAYS VIEW OUR CATERING MENU

Holiday Gift Guide - Nutley Journal - BP — December 2021 — 13

The Right Environment Photo Courtesy of Jakob Owens – Unsplash

The do’s and don’ts of giving a puppy as a gift Thinking of surprising a friend or family member with a puppy this holiday season?

“Before gifting someone with a commitment that lasts well beyond the holidays, make sure you’ve made your list and checked it twice,” said Claire Komorowski, chief executive officer of PuppySpot, a USDA-licensed company whose mission

is to make lives better by placing healthy puppies into happy homes.

Having introduced more than 200,000 puppies to loving homes, PuppySpot encourages potential dog owners to make responsible decisions this holiday season and are offering the following do’s and don’ts to help.

See MAKE, Page 15

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14 — December 2021 — Holiday Gift Guide - Nutley Journal - BP

Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Unique holiday gift ideas for everyone on your list One of the best ways to ensure you give thoughtful, meaningful holiday gifts is by consulting gift guides that offer unique ideas for everyone on your list. Whether you’re shopping for a fashionista or an athlete, get inspired to make the holiday season brighter for your loved ones with the following ideas: • For book worms: Give the book worms in your life a gift that keeps on giving with a three-month, six-month or 12month subscription to Book of the Month.

Membership can be tailored, as users can pick from five popular selections every month, select one or more books at a time, or even defer their choice until the following month.

• For music makers: Regardless of their skill level, musicians deserve a powerful, portable and versatile keyboard. Designed for music lovers who enjoy playing anytime, anywhere, the Casiotone CT-S1 has a sleek design 9-pound design, features strap pins and can be powered with six AA batteries, making it a great choice for those in bands and other performers.

Aside from its portability, its stereo grand piano sound, 61 full-size keys with touch

• For fashionistas: Great accessories can complete any outfit. For those who appreciate a stylish, clean design without compromising functionality, consider the stainless steel Edifice EFSS570DC-1A from Casio, which features a slim case and modern gray octagonal bezel with soft yellow accents. With solar power capabilities, water resistance up to 100 meters and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, as well as features that include a date display, stopwatch and three dials to display seconds, stopwatch minutes and stopwatch seconds, this will become your gift recipient’s go-to timepiece no matter the occasion.

• For athletes: From CrossFitters to marathoners to triathletes, all those who Photo Courtesy of Prostock-Studio / iStock via Getty Images Plus work out hard know that protein is essential for repairing muscles. Simplify your response, plus 60 other AiX-powered stu- ing their skills and experts alike. dio-quality tones, means this instrument • For pet parents: Whether your loved favorite athletes’ post-workout refueling looks as good as it sounds. Wired or wire- one’s pet is cuddly or not, they can snug- sessions and boost their recovery with a lessly, users can also link the keyboard to gle up to their animal friend with a per- High Protein Fitness Box from gift snack Casio’s dedicated Chordana Play, an app sonalized pet pillow from Get Photo Blan- box e-tailer, Bunny James.

With a little inspiration you, can spoil that enables tempo and key changes in ket. Simply upload an image of the pet, addition to displaying music scores and a and the site will create a custom throw loved ones with unique gift ideas that piano roll. These features are great tools pillow — the perfect decor for adoring pet show you care this holiday season.

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Make a list and check it twice before giving a pup (Continued from Page 13) Don’t: 1. Surprise your friend, partner or spouse unless they’ve openly communicated that they’re ready to take on the commitment and can prepare for the puppy’s arrival.

2. Wait too long to start looking if you know this is something you and your family want for the holidays.

3. Try and cut costs. Healthy, well-bred puppies can be expensive. If you see something that seems too good to be true, it probably is.

4. Expect a puppy to arrive fully-trained and well-behaved. Puppies can be mischievous and require a lot of time and attention.

Do: 1. Leave plenty of time for the entire process, you don’t want to rush selecting the right pup for you.

2. Realize your puppy may not arrive at the exact moment you had hoped for.

These are living, breathing animals that require stops and care along their journey.

They are not a warehouse package.

3. Plan to be home for the holidays to acclimate your puppy. Be sure to consider what happens when the holiday excitement dies down. Puppies need a great deal of attention, especially during their first year.

‘Before gifting someone with a commitment that lasts well beyond the holidays, make sure you’ve made your list and checked it twice.’

— Claire Komorowski 4. Use reputable services, like PuppySpot, which is authorized by the American Kennel Club and has its own independent scientific advisory board that collaborates with the USDA to ensure all national standards are exceeded. To learn more about PuppySpot and its promise to connect the nation’s top breeders to caring, responsible pet owners, visit www.puppyspot.com.

While there is perhaps no more joyful holiday surprise than a puppy, this is one gift that should never be given lightly. By weighing the decision carefully, you can ensure that a puppy’s new home is their fur-ever home.

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16 — December 2021 — Holiday Gift Guide - Nutley Journal - BP

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Health and safety, shipping delays, and a constrained budget — these are just some of the concerns that may be amplifying your shopping stress this holiday season.

A new consumer sentiment survey centered on the holiday season can help you know what to expect in the coming weeks so you can make a smart shopping game plan. The Sensormatic Solutions survey finds that more people plan to shop instore this year over last and plan to get started earlier. Indeed, while 63 percent of U.S. consumers are concerned about shopping in-store, this isn’t stopping them from taking advantage of annual deal days or visiting enclosed malls. In fact, 50 percent of U.S. consumers still plan to shop in-store during Black Friday weekend and 50 percent will start their holiday shopping before November, compared to 43 percent in winter 2020.

Despite many consumers indicating that they plan to hold fast to the traditional shopping experience, the survey also finds that a growing number of consumers are adopting newer shopping methods.

This is in part because of the convenience these services offer. For example, 42 percent of those surveyed say they’ll use “buy online, pick-up in store” services for their holiday shopping, a 9-percent increase

‘We expect more contactless checkouts and unified commerce services like (buy online, pick-up in store) and curbside pickup this holiday season because health and safety is paramount.’

— Kim Melvin from 2020, and 44 percent say they’ll use curbside pickup, a 12-percent increase from 2020. Popularized during the pandemic to help people adhere to social distancing guidelines, these fulfillment options are great alternatives to brickand-mortar shopping.

“We expect more contactless checkouts and unified commerce services like (buy online, pick-up in store) and curbside pickup this holiday season because health See SHOP, Page 17

Holiday Gift Guide - Nutley Journal - BP — December 2021 — 17

Shop safely by having a plan in place ahead of time (Continued from Page 16) and safety is paramount,” said Kim Melvin, global leader of marketing, Sensormatic Solutions, which is helping retailers solve complex challenges related to consumer confidence, health and safety as part of Johnson Controls’ mission.

As you check all your items off your

holiday shopping list, consider the following tips from Sensormatic Solutions: • Avoid busy stores and crowds by starting your shopping early.

• Take advantage of annual deal days without navigating in-store traffic or risking online shipping delays by using unified commerce services like buy online,

pick-up in store and curbside pickup.

• Forty-five percent of U.S. consumers said store occupancy limits preventing overcrowding would make them feel more confident shopping in-store this holiday season. If that describes you, take your business to stores adhering to occupancy limits and practicing other safety measures. The good news is that businesses have a lot of tools in their toolbox. New

technologies are helping retailers understand expected shopper patterns so they can implement in-store strategies to better service their customers.

For more holiday season shopping insights, visit sensormatic.com.

As we enter the second holiday season of the pandemic, smart strategies can help you get your shopping done safely and with ease.

— StatePoint

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18 — December 2021 — Holiday Gift Guide - Nutley Journal - BP

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Cooler temperatures, outings to the Christmas tree farm, game nights and holiday feasts. Now that the holiday season is here, it’s time to prep your home for seasonal fun! Whether you’re hosting a big or small group of family and friends this holiday season, decorating and decluttering around the house can make party prep easier and more enjoyable for everyone.

With that in mind, here are some top tips to create functional and stylish spaces that are easy to keep clean and tidy throughout the festivities.

Delightful decor. Make any room feel warm and welcoming with EasyLiner Removable Adhesive Shelf Liner by Duck Brand. Decorating with laminate is an affordable way to add pops of color to a kitchen backsplash, reading nook or old side table. Choose a print that matches your style and easily stick the laminate to smooth, flat surfaces for a fresh new look that will wow your guests.

Mudroom without messy floors.

Preparing an area near your entryway for bags and shoes is a must when expecting visitors. If you have a bench with storage, add machine-washable liner to the cubby to keep shelves clean and dry. Placing liner by the entrance of your home will also offer extra space to store muddy or wet shoes and stop salt and snow from tracking into the house. When guests leave, toss the liner in the wash and reuse.

Spotless spaces for kids. All holiday

gatherings need a space for kids to have fun and play together. While setting up for arts and crafts, line the table with a clear, textured liner to prevent crayons, markers or glue from damaging surfaces.

When it’s time to clean up, simply wipe the liner or toss it in the dishwasher.

Get your guest room ready. If you have family staying overnight, it’s time to get your guest room in shape. Dress up drawers and closet shelves with Smooth Top EasyLiner. The grip bottom will keep the liner and items in place. Trendy patterns will elevate your home decor and guests will appreciate how clean and homey the space feels during their stay.

Bathroom basics. Once you’re done prepping the guest room, don’t forget about the guest bathroom. Keep styling stations and the bath clean and tidy with shelf liner and a bath mat. Duck Brand offers a variety of cushioned, machinewashable bath and shower mats for extra comfort and safety. The Clorox mat is also designed to prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the mat.

Making these small updates around the house now will keep your most-used spaces clean and tidy to ensure family and friends are comfortable and happy over the holidays.

— StatePoint

Holiday Gift Guide - Nutley Journal - BP — December 2021 — 19

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20 — December 2021 — Holiday Gift Guide - Nutley Journal - BP

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Nutley Journal - BP — December 2021 — 11

Despite move, Napoli Trattoria is still part of Nutley

By Amanda Valentovic Staff Writer After the third time Napoli Trattoria & Pizzeria in Nutley was flooded out, the restaurant had no choice but to relocate.

The Italian restaurant, owned by Amy and Phil Arito, was inundated with water when the remnants of Hurricane Ida blew through New Jersey in September, leaving the building untenable and unable to be fixed. It was the third time they’d had water in the restaurant, though never before to that extent; the restaurant was also flooded once in July and once in 2018.

“The second one wasn’t that bad, but the third one did it in,” Amy Arito said in a phone interview with the Nutley Journal on Nov. 15. “It was coming in through the basement and in the back. I wasn’t there, but my husband and my mother-in-law had to be rescued by the fire department.”

The water was up to 6-foot-tall Phil Arito’s waist. There was no way the restaurant would be able to open for regular operations the next day.

“The floor had to be ripped up,” Amy Arito said. “You could smell it, and there was probably mold. The landlord didn’t want to work with us, so we had to relocate.”

Napoli Trattoria is now located in Montclair, occupying the site of a former restaurant. The owners tried to stay in Nutley but couldn’t find a space that would work for them.

“We tried looking everywhere in Nut-

Photos Courtesy of Amy Arita

Forced to leave its Nutley location due to flooding, the new Napoli Trattoria is open in Montclair. ley, but there was nothing available,” Amy Arito said.

Despite the move, the Nutley community hasn’t abandoned Napoli Trattoria.

Before it became clear that the restaurant would have to leave town, the Nutley Fire Department returned to the building to bail the water out, and lent wet vacuums

and fans to the Aritos to deal with the flooding. Other restaurants stored Napoli Trattoria’s food and supplies in their refrigerators so they wouldn’t expire.

Now that the Aritos have settled into their new restaurant space in Montclair, the Nutley crowd of regulars have made the short trip to the neighboring town.

“They’re still coming back,” Amy Arito said. “I have customers who have reached out and asked if we’re still delivering for Christmas. Even though we moved, we’re still looking forward to seeing everyone.”

Napoli Trattoria is now located at 11 Park St. in Montclair. More information can be found at www.napolitrattoria.com.

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12 — December 2021 — Belleville Post

Post 105 raises money for American Cancer Society Following a raffle and donation table at the Post 105 annual picnic, American Legion Post 105 and Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105, both with matching donations, have been able to send a check to the American Cancer Society for $1,800. At the SAL general meeting on Monday, Oct. 11, the post and squadron membership presented a representative from the society with the check.

Each year for perhaps the last two decades, Post 105 has held its annual picnic in the late summer or early fall.

Being the largest annual fundraiser for the post, the picnic has grown bigger and bigger throughout the years to what this year capped off with an all-time high attendance. More than 300 tickets were sold.

Planning for the picnic starts months in advance. Throughout that entire time, SAL member Vinnie Ferriole had been trying to find a way for SAL 105 to have a fundraiser for a cancer awareness and research society. After settling on the American Cancer Society as the charity of choice, the SAL was tasked with trying to figure out how to hold the fundraiser, considering options such as a raffle, a bike night and a 50/50. In the end, the post agreed to have a cancer awareness table at the picnic on Sept. 18.

At a table decorated with pink and blue bows and a huge “Help Fight Cancer” sign, picnic attendees donated more than

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$550 in $5 and $10 contributions. With a bowl of pink and blue bows for donors to wear, folks at the event bought purple raffle tickets to support the cancer society fundraiser. Ferriole capped the event with a custom-made cake emblazoned with the cancer ribbon, put out for dessert toward the end of the picnic.

The fundraiser hit home for Ferriole.

“I, being a survivor of prostate cancer, am very pleased to see how many people donated the day of our picnic,” he said.

It was announced at the picnic that the SAL and the American Legion 105 would both match the fundraiser proceeds, tripling what was raised. This is what brought the donation to $1,800.

A representative from the American Cancer Society came to a joint meeting of the Legion and SAL the following month to be presented with a check. Halle Baker, a development manager for New Jersey’s division of the American Cancer Society, accepted the check from Post Cmdr. Joe Cobianchi, SAL Cmdr. Steve Sangemino and Ferriole.

“Just like every business and organization, the American Cancer Society took a huge hit during COVID,” Baker said at the meeting. “This money will go to copays to get treatment, transportation to treatment and even lodging to be closer to treatment. We thank you so much for taking your time and your efforts — we know this has been a hard year for everybody.”

Photos Courtesy of Rusty Myers

Above, American Legion Post 105 and Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105 present a check for $1,800 to the American Cancer Society. Below, a fundraising table at the organizations’ annual picnic raises more than $550.

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BULLETIN BOARD (Continued from Page 8) Jack Pignatello, John Fraissinet, Alyssum D’Aoust, Sharon Podsada, Patrick Little, Arthur Carlson, Marina Tu and Donna Fraissinet are in the cast.

All patrons of Nutley Little Theatre must show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours of the performance date. Masks must be worn at all times while inside the theater.

All cast and crew members are vaccinated.

To purchase tickets, visit www. showtix4u.com/event-details/57732.

Santa Express Mailbox Commissioner John V. Kelly III will once again collect letters written to Santa by children in the township and forward

them directly to Santa Claus at the North Pole. Santa has promised that each letter will be read and responded to.

The Santa Express Mailbox will be placed at the Nutley Park Oval entrance on Chestnut Street. Children can deliver their letters from Friday, Nov. 26, to Monday, Dec. 13, so Santa has enough time to respond to each letter.

Parents are asked to have children include their ages and return address, or an email address, if they prefer to receive an “e-letter” from Santa. Yes, even Santa is going digital. Keep in mind that mail service may be delayed during the holiday season. Those who choose to receive a mailed letter should include their street address, since Santa doesn’t always have

the luxury of time to look up addresses during the busy holiday season.

For more information, contact the Office of Public Affairs at 973-284-4976.

Donating desks for students in Tanzania Vincent Church in Nutley is raising funds to purchase desks for students in Tanzania, where a new school is being opened in an impoverished area. The desks are for three students and cost $50 each. To donate any amount, visit vincentumc.org/onlinedonations and note that the donation is for “Tanzania desks.”

Nutley Rotary runs What’s Up calendar Nutley Rotary runs a What’s Up Nutley Community Calendar, an online community events calendar, to help Nutley citizens learn about and plan events.

What’s Up Nutley Community Calendar invites all Nutley nonprofit organizations,

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Nutley schools and the township of Nutley to post events, meetings and fundraisers.

The calendar is accessible online to everyone and can easily be accessed on computer, tablet or mobile device at www.whatsupnutley.org. The calendar also has a Facebook page where events can be posted and shared.

Members of Nutley’s nonprofit organizations may suggest an event through the website; for multiple events, they may contact Nutley Rotary at whatsupnutlely@gmail.com for a priority login.

To advertise in the calendar, email whatsupnutley@gmail.com or contact Ben Costa at 973-798-2493.

Take a walk in Yanticaw The Nutley Singles Walking Group hosts a free 4-mile walk for area residents ages 55 to 65 each Thursday at 6 p.m.

The group meets at Yanticaw Park, by the Centre Street entrance. Participants must be fully vaccinated against COVID and must show proof. For information, call 201280-8254.

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BROOKDALE CHRISTIAN CHURCH, 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.

LIVINGFAITH CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY 25 New Street, Nutley, 973 661-0105 www.LFAITH.org Pastor S.P. Ciotola Free welcome gift bag for first time visitors Experience the Passion of Church again: – Passionate Bible Teaching – Exciting Music&Worship Sunday 10:45am – Worship and Teaching – Faith Kids ages 6-12 – Nursery provided Wednesday 6:30pm – Bible Studies – Faith Kids ages 6-12

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Belleville Post — December 2021 — 15

Area nonprofit organizations receive grants from bank foundation The Provident Bank Foundation named its major grant recipients for its second cycle of 2021 in a Nov. 4 press release. The foundation awarded nearly $450,000 of total funding to 27 nonprofit organizations within the foundation’s three priority areas: community enrichment; education; and health, youth and families.

In Essex County, grants have been awarded to Clara Maass Medical Center Foundation in Belleville; NJ LEEP, a college access and success program serving students and families in the greater Newark area; and Table to Table, a community-based food rescue program that collects prepared and perishable food that would otherwise be wasted and delivers it to organizations serving the hungry in the Bergen, Essex, Hudson and Passaic counties.

Grants provide funding between $5,000 and $25,000 to organizations across the New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania communities served by Provident Bank.

Photo Courtesy of Essex County

KING OF THE JUNGLE WINS PRIZE — Adrianna and Fjori Zguro, from Belleville, and their dog, Otto, who were dressed as jungle animals with Otto as the king of the jungle, won second place in the Best Group Costume category at the Strut Your Mutt contest in Branch Brook Park on Oct. 24. Pictured with them are, from left, Newark Council President Luis Quintana, Newark North Ward Councilman Anibal Ramos, Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. with his grandchildren and Essex County Deputy Parks Director Kate Hartwyk.

“We are thrilled to offer funding opportunities to some of the outstanding nonprofits that are continually raising up our community,” foundation Executive Director Samantha Plotino said. “From medical services to educational programs to food banks, these organizations are very valuable to residents across New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Additional funding will allow their various programs to continue to thrive and make an impact.”

Lori Monaco, GRI Broker of Record Over 30 years of Experience Past President, Local Board of Realtors Co-Chair, Professional Standards Committee, Local Board of Realtors Board of Directors, Local Board of Realtors ‘95-2012

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16 — December 2021 — Nutley Journal - BP

Murphy reelected in NJ

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By Yael Katzwer Editor The Nov. 2 election in New Jersey saw some major upsets, low voter turnout and the Democrats losing ground. The biggest upset was Republican challenger Edward Durr defeating Democratic incumbent Senate President Stephen Sweeney in the 3rd Legislative District.

Also shocking to many voters was how poorly Democratic incumbent Gov. Phil Murphy did at the polls. While the uncertified results show Murphy winning — making him the first Democratic governor to win a second term in 44 years — he did so by a very narrow margin. Unofficial results show Murphy with 51.21 percent of the votes and Republican challenger Jack Ciattarelli with 48.01 percent of the votes.

None of the other challengers — Joanne Kuniansky on the Socialist Workers Party

ticket; Madelyn R. Hoffman on the Green Party ticket; and Gregg Mele on the Libertarian Party ticket — broke above 0.35 percent of the votes.

While the state numbers were close in the gubernatorial election, that wasn’t the case for Essex County numbers. According to the unofficial Essex County results, which were scheduled to be certified by County Clerk Christopher Durkin after press time, Murphy received nearly triple the amount of votes that Ciattarelli got.

Murphy won 132,520 votes in Essex County, Ciattarelli won 45,542, Kuniansky won 309, Hoffman won 475 and Mele won 321.

There were also two state public questions for voters to consider; both concern gambling statutes. In the first question, voters were asked to decide whether the See RESULTS, Page 17

IN MEMORIAM • ANDREWS – Etta, of Nutley, formerly of Rutherford; Oct. 27. Retired administrative assistant, Community Mental Health in Belleville. Volunteer, Nutley Red Cross. Wife, mother, grandmother.

• APPEL – Sylvia S., of Nutley; Oct. 21. Newark teacher. Parishioner of Grace Episcopal Church in Nutley. Was 87.

• BAKER – Walter Reeves Jr., of Nutley, formerly of Harrison; Oct. 27. Sales manager for Luxury Homes in Newark. Husband, father, grandfather.

• BAKER – William Alfred, of Marietta, Ga., formerly of Nutley; Oct. 29. Former member of the US National Guard. Procurement manager, Butler Auxiliary Police chief. Father, brother, 77.

• CAPOLONGO – Marie, of Belleville; Nov. 10. Employed as a cafeteria aide for the Newark Board of Education. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 99.

• DESTEFANO – Elizabeth, of Belleville; Nov. 10. Former Nutley Board of Education secretary. Aunt, great-aunt, 76.

• FUGARAZZO – Jennie, of Nutley, formerly of Newfoundland, Canada; Nov. 9.

Volunteered at East Orange Veterans Medical Center. Member of Golden Age Club, Nutley. Widow, mother, 99.

• HOFKER – Patricia R., of Nutley; Nov. 11. Widow, mother, 80.

• KOENEN – Donald R., of Basking Ridge, formerly of Pompton Plains, Nutley and Fair Lawn; Oct. 30. Auditor, stock broker, president of the Radburn Association. Husband, father, grandfather, 82.

• LILOIA – Sabina, of Belleville, formerly of Newark, Lyndhurst; Nov. 10. Member of Nutley Seniors Friday Club, Nutley Golden Age Club. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 96.

• MARTINO – Paul, of Nutley; Oct. 27. World War II Navy veteran. Self-employed building contractor in the Essex County area. Widower, father, grandfather, greatgrandfather, 93.

• MAZZIOTTA – Geraldine “Gerry,” of Nutley, formerly of Allison Park, Pa.; Oct. 25. Grammar school teacher. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 93.

• PERRONE – Marie R., of Brick, formerly of Belleville; Nov. 4. Retired from Schering-Plough. Avid bowler, gardener, cook and baker. Brother, uncle, 94.

• RENDENNA – Luisa “Louise,” of Manchester, formerly of Belleville; Nov. 13.

Retired accounting manager for Pilgrim Insurance Agency. Wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 92.

• SASS – John, of Bloomfield, formerly of Nutley; Oct. 23. Inspector for Thomson Electric Tubes and Devices Inc., member of St. Valentine’s Church Athletic Association, father, grandfather, 98.

• VELTRI – Alphonse A., of Belleville; Oct. 20. U.S. Army veteran, computer photographer. Member of The Gregory Club, NJ Mineralogical Society and NJ Lapidary Society. Was 86.

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

Nutley Journal - BP — December 2021 — 17

Results are in for elections in Belleville and Nutley (Continued from Page 16) state should pass a constitutional amendment to allow wagering on postseason college sport competitions held in New Jersey and competitions in which a New Jersey–based college team participates.

Statewide, Public Question No. 1 was defeated, with 57 percent voting “no.” In Essex County, 52.94 percent of voters voted “no.” The second question regarded whether to allow organizations that are permitted to hold raffles to keep the raffle

proceeds to support themselves. This question passed, with 64.12 percent of state voters saying “yes.” In Essex County, 65.22 percent of voters voted “yes.”

While the majority of votes went to “no” and “yes,” respectively, on the two public questions, it is still not a majority of voters, as New Jersey had dismal voter turnout this election, even with multiple methods of voting, including in person, by mail and early in person. According to state records, only 38 percent of eligible

Photo Courtesy of Nutley Public Schools

ALWAYS LEARNING — The Nutley Public Schools administrative team underwent some professional development regarding culturally relevant teaching and diversity, equity and inclusion with Fernando Naiditch, above, an associate professor at Montclair State University.

In the 29th Legislative District, state Sen. M. Teresa Ruiz, the Democratic incumbent, ran unopposed; she has since been named Senate majority leader.

Assembly incumbent Democrats Eliana Pintor Marin and Shanique Speight won reelection with 49.14 percent and 48.3 percent of the votes, respectively. Independent challenger Debra Salters received just 2.56 percent of the votes.

The Belleville Board of Education race gave voters a lot of options, with six candidates running for two open seats. Challengers Nicole Coviello-Daddis and Tracy Williams won with 2,079 and 2,000 votes, respectively. They defeated challenger Lissa Missaggia with 1,680 votes, incumbent Christine Lamparello with 1,332 votes, incumbent Nelson Barrera with 1,289 votes and challenger Ruben A. Rodriguez with 941 votes.

The Nutley Board of Education race also had a large number of candidates, with seven individuals running for just three open seats. Challenger Joe Battaglia garnered the most votes at 4,059, followed by incumbent Kenneth J. Reilly with 3,430 votes and 19-year-old challenger Nicholas Scotti with 3,375 votes.

Not winning the election were challenger Daniel Fraginals with 2,756 votes, challenger David Kay with 2,680 votes, incumbent Theresa Quirk with 2,234 votes and challenger Jeffrey Polewka with 1,481 votes.

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voters turned out this election. Voter turnout figures in Essex County and individual municipalities were not available by press time.

Even with new voting machines — to vote in person, voters filled out a paper ballot and then fed it to the voting machine themselves — and the addition of early inperson voting, Durkin said the November 2021 election operations went well.

“The general election was demanding, being that New Jersey and Essex County were implementing many updates to the voting process, but overall we experienced a successful election, giving voters more options to vote and a more secure manner in which to cast their vote,” Durkin told the newspaper.

Countywide, voters overwhelmingly reelected Democratic incumbent Sheriff Armando B. Fontoura, who has served as sheriff since 1990, with 127,844 votes.

Republican challenger Nicholas G. Pansini received only 38,473 votes.

In the 28th Legislative District, Democratic incumbent state Sen. Ronald Rice and Assembly members Ralph Caputo and Cleopatra Tucker re-won their seats, with Rice winning 77.92 percent of the district’s votes against Republican challenger Frank Contella, and Caputo and Tucker winning 39.24 percent and 39.15 percent, respectively, against Republican challengers Monique Headen and Anthony D’Angelo.

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18 — December 2021 — Belleville Post

SPORTS

Bucs display resolve during winning season

By Joe Ragozzino Sports Editor The Belleville High School football team enjoyed an impressive season.

The Bucs, under head coach Jermain Johnson, finished with a 6-4 record.

They particularly showed their resolve after starting off with a 1-2 record, including losing a heartbreaking 29-28 decision in week 2 on Sept. 10 to rival Nutley in their home opener, when they unveiled their new turf field at Doc Ellis Field at Municipal Stadium.

The Bucs reeled off five wins in six games to improve to a 6-3 record, with the lone loss in that stretch to a strong West Essex team. Though they lost at traditional power Wayne Hills, 28-0, in the season finale, Belleville had reason to feel good about its season.

The Bucs featured several strong contributors: • Senior running back James Cook Jr. rushed for 650 yards and eight touchdowns, both team highs, while averaging a whopping 8.44 yards per carry.

• Junior quarterback Brent Rojas showed his versatility. He completed 43 of 78 attempts — 55.13 percent — for 821 yards with 10 touchdowns and just four interceptions, while rushing for 270 yards, second on the team, with three touchdowns, averaging 4.58 yards per carry.

• Senior receiver Al Horne was Rojas’ main receiving target, with 15 catches for 401 yards and five touchdowns on the season. On defense, he had 20 tackles and two interceptions.

• Senior tight end Terence Folkes rushed for 156 yards and four touchdowns on the season.

Folkes especially wreaked havoc on defense as a defensive end/linebacker, with 67 tackles, including 10 tackles for loss and four sacks, along

Jermain Johnson BHS head coach with two forced fumbles.

• Jacob Santo Domingo posted a teamhigh 70 tackles, with two sacks and two fumble recoveries.

• Senior free safety Chris Vitale had 67 tackles and a staggering eight interceptions.

• Senior free safety Brian Dessources had 53 tackles and two interceptions, sophomore Ezekiel Pina collected 31 tackles, and senior Najee Harris had 29 tackles.

Belleville results • Sept. 4: win, at Barringer, 44-6 • Sept. 10: loss, vs. Nutley, 29-28 • Sept. 18: loss, vs. Millburn, 24-22 • Sept. 24: win, at East Side, 51-8 • Oct. 1: win, vs. Orange, 21-6 • Oct. 9: loss, at West Essex, 35-0 • Oct. 15: win, at Passaic, 42-14 • Oct. 22: win, at Kearny, 41-0 • Oct. 29: win, vs. North Bergen, 27-7 • Nov. 4: loss, at Wayne Hills, 28-8

BHS boys soccer team nets 2 goals vs. power SHP in game Ruiz posts both tallies; leads Bucs on SEC teams The Belleville High School boys soccer team finished with a 5-14 overall record this fall, but the Bucs can take solace in one accomplishment.

The Bucs, under head coach Gary Polewka, scored two goals against nationally ranked Seton Hall Prep. Granted, the visiting Bucs lost, 7-2, on Sept. 22, but they scored one-third of the goals allowed by Seton Hall Prep during the whole season.

Seton Hall Prep, based in West Orange, yielded only six goals all season in winning conference, county, sectional and state championships, en route to an unbeaten 200-1 season and was recently ranked No. 5 in the nation by PrepSoccer.net. The Bucs were the only team to have scored more than one goal against SHP this season.

The Bucs’ two goals against SHP were scored by senior Jonathan Ruiz, who made Super Essex Conference–Liberty Division first team honors.

Juniors Ivan Garcia and Logan Kutlu made second team, while junior Favio Moreno and sophomore Joshua Nodong made honorable mention for the Bucs, who won a state sectional title in 2020 under Polewka.

Photos Courtesy of Maximiliano G. Garrido

From left, No. 18 Terence Folkes, No. 54 Jacob Santo Domingo, No. 8 Markeith Stevens and No. 7 Brian Dessources walk to the middle of the field during the home opener against Nutley on Sept. 10.

Belleville Post — December 2021 — 19

SPORTS

Belleville Jr. Bucs Cheerleading team dazzles in first competition of season The A squad walked out onto the mat confident and strong. They were awarded the Division Champion title for their routine.

The Belleville Jr. Bucs cheerleading team had its first competition of the season on Sunday, Nov. 7, at Hackettstown High School.

The Belleville Jr. Bucs A squad is a recreational team of 15 athletes who are all in seventh or eighth grade. Most are new to the sport.

After working with them since August, their coaches determined that they deserved a chance to compete. According to team coordinator Mia Torres, head coaches Maria DelValle and Kenya Pringle have put together a routine packed with energy, attitude and a difficulty level that the squad should be proud of.

“I am thrilled to see how much progress they have made in such a short period of time,” Torres said. “Most competitive teams practice all year long to deliver a two-minute-and-30-second routine. Our girls did that in three months.

Given the circumstances they face on a daily basis with the new normal, that’s pretty incredible. They practice hard, they work together, and the support we receive from families and the community is incredible to witness.”

The A squad walked out onto the mat confident and strong. They were awarded the Division Champion title for their routine. Laila Guzman represented Belleville in the “Jump Off” and “Tumble Off” competitions, securing the win

Photos Courtesy of Mia Torres

The Belleville Jr. Bucs A cheerleaders are all smiles after winning the Division Champion title at Rumble in the Jungle Hackettstown Fall Cheer Fest. for Belleville in both contests.

The Belleville Jr. Bucs A squad was scheduled to compete in their final competition of the season, at Cherry Hill High School, on Nov. 20.

Photo Courtesy of Neal Dinapoli

GOOD SEASON — The Belleville High School girls soccer team posted a good season this fall with an 8-8 overall record.

20 — December 2021 — Belleville Post

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