Nutley H.S. graduates
See Pags 8-12
Class of 2026 celebrates graduation
By Joe Ungaro Editor
It was sunny, warm and windy as the Nutley High School Class of 2026 accepted their diplomas on the Oval as a stadium packed with friends and family looked on.
The students, who were the school’s 156th graduating class, walked into the stadium as the school band and orchestra played “Pomp and Circumstance” before the Pledge of Allegiance was said and “The Star Spangled Banner” sung by the school’s concert choir and chamber singers.
Class President Lincoln T. Boyes greeted guests and spoke to his gathered classmates about his own personal journey, which included living on three continents before he moved to Nutley.
“What makes Nutley special is the people,” Boyes said. “No matter where life takes us next I hope we will always carry some of Nutley with us.”
Arlind Sinani followed Boyes, giving the Salutatory Address. He thanked the parents and guardians in attendance as well as teachers, coaches and administrators for the work they had done to get the students to this point. He talked to his classmates about how they had changed over the last few years.
“In this sea of maroon and white I see 300 different perspectives of the last four years,” Sinani said.”Our priorities have shifted, our values have changed. We are not the same people we were four years ago.”
Sinani said each one of his classmates had their own unique gift.
“Don’t let anyone tell us we are too young or dumb to fulfill our dreams,” Sinani said. “The only real risk is to take no risk at all.”
Valedictorian Naomi Wei followed Sinani and she also thanked family and friends for their help before talking about the importance of enjoying small moments every day.
Wei said her mother showed her a Tik-
Students and families were all smiles as the Nutley High School Class of 2026 received their diplomas on the Oval. See a list of the graduates and more photos, starting on Page 8.
Tok video about finding “glimmers” in life.
“This TikTok taught me how to train our brains to look for our glimmers,” Wei said. These “glimmers” could be something as small as a good cup of coffee or a nap.
“I’ve since made it my goal to focus on three good things (that happened that day) each day,” Wei said. “The more I focused on finding my ‘glimmers’ the easier it got.”
She encouraged her classmates to do the same as they head out into the world.
After Wei, Principal Denis Williams addressed the students, first telling them to stand and clap for their “support system” in the audience. He then talked about inherent shared humanity.
“You guys are in an ocean of shared experience and an ocean of individual waves,” he said.
He offered other words of encouragement and advice, including “remember what we told you” and “don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
Superintendent of Schools Kent Bania followed Williams and he talked about the book “Who Moved My Cheese?” by Spencer Johnson. The book is a motivational business fable that uses a parable to teach readers how to deal with change in their work and life.
“Change is inevitable but growth is how we respond to it,” Bania said. “Growth rarely happens when everything stays the same.”
Bania said success is measured by character, perseverance and the ability to keep moving.
“The future belongs to those willing to change and adapt,” Bania said. “The diploma you receive this evening is not a finish line, it is a launching pad.”
School Board Vice President Salvatore Balsamo spoke and told the students to remember they were from Nutley as they go forward.
“You stand on a foundation of what you’ve learned and what you’ve overcome,” he said.
Matthew De Fede
Photo by Joe Ungaro
Nutley names its Veteran of the Year and first Patriot of the Year
During the 105th Annual Memorial Day Parade on May 25th, the Township of Nutley honored its newest Patriot and Veteran of the Year.
Mayor John V. Kelly III and the Department of Public Affairs and Health recognized Henry P. DelTosto as Veteran of the Year and Annette Arocho-Bautista as the township's first-ever Patriot of the Year.
“I was very surprised and humbled by the nomination,” Arocho-Bautista said, “and to be considered patriotic. We do these things out of love for our country, our veterans, military families, and our neighbors; we do it simply because we want to. It's just very humbling.”
The Patriot of the Year award recognizes a civilian resident of the Township of Nutley who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to supporting veterans, service members, or veteran-based initiatives. This distinction was introduced for the first time this year to honor those whose selfless efforts often take place behind the scenes, but have a meaningful impact on our veteran community.
“Every year we recognize a veteran who goes above and beyond for the veteran community,” Kelly said. “But there are also many residents who never had the privilege to serve, but nonetheless dedicate themselves to serving the veteran community and we wanted to honor those individuals as well. Both Henry and Annette have long been serving and advocating for and on behalf of veterans. Both
are great examples and well deserving of their awards.”
The township, in partnership with the Nutley Veterans Council, also proudly continued its Veteran of the Year Program, a tradition established in 2013 to recognize individuals who demonstrate unwavering support for military service
members, veterans and their families.
"I was deeply humbled," stated DelTosto, this year’s Veteran of the Year. "I prefer working behind the scenes, helping out or directing. I’m not one for the spotlight, so it was humbling for the Township to recognize me in this way."
John McGuire, president of the Nutley
Veterans Council, added, “These programs are more than awards. They’re a testament to the dedication and selfless service of individuals who go above and beyond for those who have served our country. We are proud to honor these remarkable individuals and share their stories with the community.”
Photos Courtesy Nutley Twp.
Above left, Henry P. DelTosto was named Veteran of the Year at the township’s Memorial Day Parade. Above right, Annette Arocho-Bautista was named the township's first-ever Patriot of the Year.
The library in July has magic, a Yankee organist and much more
The Nutley Public Library has the following programs planned for the month of July.
• Wednesday, July 1 and Saturday July 25 at 11 a.m. – Free Play with Bricks. Stop by and make something awesome with bricks. For ages 5 and up. No registration required.
• Thursday, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 at 11 a.m. –– Drop-in Craft. Drop-in to the Children’s Room and work on a unique creation. New projects every week. Suggested for ages 3 and up.
• Thursday, July 2 at 3 p.m. – Chocolate Tasting – The library’s Fourth Annual Chocolate Tasting. There will be six different flavors to sample.
• Monday, July 6, 13, 20, 27 at 10 a.m.
– Mahjong Mondays – The Mahjong club meets on Monday mornings in the Periodical Room. The library provides the Mahjong board and tiles. No instruction is provided, so you must know how to play.
• Monday, July 6, 13, 20, 27 at 2 p.m. –Maker Mondays - Explore the world of STEM with awesome activities. For all ages and skill levels.
• Monday, July 6 and July 20 at 5:30 p.m. – Teen Dungeons & Dragons One-Shot Adventures – Monday, July 6 is Character Creation Workshop – participants leave with their own sheet that they can bring to any campaign in the future. Space is limited and online registration is required. Register at: nutleypubliclibrary.org.
• Tuesday, July 7, 14, 21, 28 at 10 a.m.
– Baby Play Time – A free play program for babies 23 months and younger and their caregivers only. Babies can explore age-appropriate toys and activities and make new friends at a casual meet-up.
• Tuesday, July 7 at 1 p.m. – Friends of the Library Book Discussion – A discussion of “The Storyteller” by Jodi Picoult. Copies of the book are available at the front desk.
• Tuesday, July 7, 21, 28 at 3 p.m. –Joe Fischer’s Secrets of Magic – A look behind the scenes to see how magicians do their tricks. Each child will receive their own “bag of magic” to take home For ages 6-12. Registration is required and limited to Nutley Public Library cardholders.
• Tuesday, July 7 at 7 p.m. –Decoupage on Canvas – Participants will decoupage paper napkins onto a canvas to make unique and creative pieces. Registration is limited to 20 Nutley adults, register at: nutleypubliclibrary.org.
• Wednesday, July 8 and Saturday July 11 at 10 a.m. – Finger Painting – Ages 5 and under.
• Wednesday, July 8 at 2 p.m. – Rutgers Geology Museum Presents Fossil Fun. Learn about amazing fossils and minerals from a Rutgers University geologist. For ages 5-12. Registration is required and limited to Nutley Public Library cardholders.
• Thursday, July 9 at 3 p.m. and Saturday, July 25 at 10:30 a.m. – Culinary
Creatives Cooking Program. Children can make a unique and healthy recipe with registered dietician Nicole Sayre of Culinary Creatives For ages 6-10. Registration is required and limited to Nutley Public Library Cardholders.
• Thursday, July 9 at 6 p.m. – Tarot 101: Past, Present, Future – Curious about tarot? Join tarot reader Kate Sheridan for an introduction to the SmithRider-Waite deck.
• Thursday July 9, 16, 23, 30 at 6:30 p.m. – Teen Summer Club – Hang out with other teens to play games and make crafts. New activities each week. Snacks and materials provided. No registration required. For tweens and teens entering grades 6-12 in Fall 2026.
• Friday, July 10 at 10:30 a.m. – Roar Dinosaur Story Time – Unearth a story at this dino-tastic story time with tales and a craft you can take home. For all ages. No registration required.
• Saturday, July 11, 18, 25 at 11 a.m. –Summer Craft Saturdays. Stop by the Children’s Room to make a craft to take home. For all ages.
Saturday, July 11 at 2 p.m. – Ed Alstrom – Sounds of Yankee Stadium – Weekend organist of Yankee Stadium, Ed Alstrom, will bring an organ and play the most popular and requested songs from his Yankee Stadium pre-game spots.
• Monday, July 13 at 6 p.m. – Stuffed Animal Sleepover – Bring a cuddly friend (or doll) for activities and a craft and let them spend the night at the library. You can pick them up Tuesday starting at 11 a.m. and see a slideshow of all the fun they had at their sleepover. One toy per child. For all ages. No registration required.
• Monday, July 13 at 7 p.m. – Book Bedazzling – Bring your favorite book with a colorful/illustrated cover. Pick an element on the cover to emphasize with some sparkle. The library will provide the
colored gems and other supplies needed to make it into a blinged-out display piece. This workshop is geared towards adults and teens age 16 and up. Space is limited to 25 Nutley teens/adults and online registration is required at: https://bccls.libcal.com/event/16996459.
• Tuesday, July 14 and Thursday, July 30 at 3 p.m. – Explore the prehistoric world of the dinosaurs with STEM projects led by Challenge Island instructors. For ages 6-12. Registration is required and limited to Nutley Public Library cardholders.
• Tuesday, July 14 at 7 p.m. in the Stockton Room – Authors’ Discussion Group – Meet with fellow book authors to learn about the writing process. Register online at: nutleypubliclibrary.org.
• Tuesday, July 14 at 7 p.m. Virtual Author Talk – Small Towns and Big Secrets: In conversation with bestselling author Karin Slaughter. An evening with acclaimed author Karin Slaughter – International and New York Times bestselling author of “Pretty Girls,” the “Will Trent” series, and “The Good Daughter” – for a chat about her “North Falls” series.
• Wednesdays, July 15, 22 and 29 at 2 p.m. – Read to a Dog – For children entering grades K-5 in Fall 2026. Readers choose a book and pair up with a licensed therapy dog to practice their reading and public speaking skills for 20 minutes. Registration is required.
• Wednesdays, July 15, 22 at 3 p.m. –Essex County Environmental Workshops – Join an Essex County Naturalist to learn about the amazing wonders of nature through stories and activities For ages 5-10. Sign-up is required and limited to Nutley Public Library cardholders.
• Thursday, July 16 at 6:30 p.m. –Friends of the Nutley Public Library General Meeting – All members of the Friends are welcome to attend. If you would like to join visit: friendsofnutleypl.membershiptoolkit.com.
• Thursday, July 16 at 2 p.m. Virtual Author Talk – Migrant Heart: The Hidden Cost of the American Dream and Healing through Storytelling with author Reyna Grande.
• Thursday, July 16 and Friday July 31 at 3 p.m. – Squish & Sculpt – Join artist Blake Lester and make a mini dinosaur in this clay workshop. For ages 8-11.
• Friday, July 17 at 10 a.m. – Soccer Shots Story Time – Join trained coaches from Soccer Shots Essex Union for a fun, soccer-themed story time and learn some soccer skills. Register for the ageappropriate group time slot. One registration per child. Registration opens July 3 at 10 a.m. at nutleypubliclibrary.org.
• Saturday, July 18, at 10:30 a.m. –Summer STEAM Story Time – For all ages.
• Saturday, July 18 at 2 p.m. – Blanket Making Meet-Up to benefit Project Linus – All adults 18 and up are welcome to social and stitch. Participants will be making blankets for babies and children ages 0-18 years old. Blankets can be knit or crochet. Please bring your own materials.
• Tuesday, July 21 at 7 p.m. in the Stockton Room – Cozy Book Club – The July meeting for the evening book club for adults will discuss “Summer Romance” by Anabel Monaghan.
• Thursday, July 23 at 6:30 p.m. –Candle Making – Enjoy crafting your own 3 ounce candle.
• Friday, July 24 at 3 p.m. – Summer Brick Building Workshop – Meet up with LEGO fans and work on a building challenge. For ages 5-11. Registration is required and limited to Nutley Public Library cardholders.
• Saturday, July 25 at 2 p.m. in the Stockton Room – Art at the Library: John Zollo, artist. Nutley Public Library will host a reception for local artist John Zollo to celebrate his exhibition, now on display through Aug. 31.
• Monday, July 27 at 6 p.m. – Family Movie Night – Cool off with a kidfriendly film while you play movie bingo and make a craft. Contact the Children’s Desk at 973-667-0405 ext. 2623 for film title and information.
• Tuesday, July 28 at 7 p.m. – What Makes Magic…Magic? This program is an original presentation by magician Bill Wisch that explores the art and psychology behind astonishment.
• Wednesday, July 29 at 10 a.m. –Sand Art Workshop - Make a colorful sand art bottle necklace to take home. For all ages. No registration required.
• Wednesday, July 29 at 2 p.m. –Paint with Pinot’s Palette Friends Fundraiser – For ages 5-12. Registration is required. Visit the Events Calendar at: nutleypubliclibrary.org for more information.
• Friday, July 31 at 10 a.m. – Video Game Free Play – Drop-in and play Switch games on the big screen. Open to all skill levels. No registration required.
Nutley Podcast features comedy writer
The latest episode of the Inside Nutley Podcast, Episode 45, features television comedy writer and producer Gerard "Gerry" Mulligan.
A Nutley resident since 1984, Mulligan was a cornerstone writer and frequent oncamera performer throughout David Letterman's late-night career, becoming one of the longest-serving members of his creative team.
Over more than two decades, he worked as a writer, head writer, and segment producer on “Late Night with David Letterman” and “Late Show with David Letterman.”
In the episode, host Thomas Greco talks with Mulligan about his extraordinary 20-year run with Letterman - from helping shape “Late Night” to unforgettable moments with icons such as Johnny Carson, Bob Dylan, Andy Kaufman, Paul Newman, R.E.M., Kirk Douglas, Elvis Costello, and many others.
Mulligan also reflects on his love of Nutley and why he chose to raise his fam-
ily and retire here.
The Inside Nutley Podcast is available on iTunes, Soundcloud and the Township of Nutley social media pages.
Nutley attorney in top 1% of NADC list
Andrew Frank Garruto, of Garruto Law Group in Nutley, was selected for the 2026 list of the Nation’s Top 1 % by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. NADC is an organization dedicated to promoting the highest standards of legal excellence. Members are vetted by a research team, selected by a panel of attorneys from neutral organizations, and approved by a judicial review board as exhibiting virtue in the practice of law.
Only the top 1 percent of attorneys in the United States are awarded membership in NADC, according to a press release from the Garruto Law Group.
Photo Courtesy of Nutley Twp. Gerard ‘Gerry’ Mulligan
People placed lanterns in the water at the mudhole to remember cancer victims.
Nutley Water Lantern Festival honors those touched by cancer
Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci and the Greater Nutley Cancer Foundation (GNCF) hosted the GNCF’s first Water Lantern Festival in June at Memorial Park I (the Mudhole).
The event offered the community a chance to honor, remember, and celebrate all those touched by cancer.
After giving a brief history of the GNCF, Tucci recognized the hard work of the dedicated volunteers of the GNCF.
“The GNCF Board is second to none,” Tucci said. “The volunteer work that they do is wonderful. They do it all from the bottom of their hearts. Deidre (Hollywood, GNCF President) is a great leader. Their efforts are just phenomenal, and they just keep getting better and better every day. Our goal is to grow, get bigger grants, and keep hosting fun, meaningful events like this Water Lantern Festival. A massive shoutout to the Board, to Deidre for her leadership, and to our Parks Department, who designed this memorial area and keep it looking great. Thank you all for being here.”
The Water Lantern Festival was a moving evening of reflection and unity, as attendees released lanterns on the water at the Mudhole in tribute to cancer survivors, those currently battling the disease, and loved ones lost. Water lanterns were purchased at the event, with all proceeds going to benefit the Greater Nutley Cancer Foundation.
Publisher: David Worrall
Editor: Joe Ungaro
Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina
Photo Courtesy of Nutley Twp.
Nutley commissioners recognize Pride Month, preach principles of liberty
The Township of Nutley proclaimed June Pride Month at a Board of Commissioners meeting last month.
Mayor John Kelly III read a proclamation recognizing the month of June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning and Plus (LGBTQ+) Pride Month urging residents to actively promote the principles of equality and liberty.
Nutley Pride Executive Director Angelica Midolo, joined by Community Engagement Coordinator Paul Blank, stepped forward to speak on behalf of the organization.
“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the Commissioners, Mayor Kelly, and Meredith Blank, and to everyone in this room who continues to stand fiercely beside us. Thank you for your visibility, your action, and your genuine allyship.
“When Nutley Pride was founded in 2019, its blueprint was simple, yet vital: to ensure inclusivity, and safety for the LGBTQ+ community here in Nutley. Since then, we have proudly extended that throughout Essex County. We have built spaces where communities can gather in joy and in love and in radical freedom of being unapologetically who they are. Our mission is rooted in a simple truth: our community deserves to be seen, heard, protected, and loved.”
Midolo asked the Rev. Asa Coulson of Nutley’s Grace Church to say a few words.
Township commissioners
“Before I arrived in Nutley about two and a half years ago, I was told that Nutley was a great town in many ways, and that I should be careful, because folks in Nutley are suspicious of outsiders, and they don't like change,” Coulson said. “Well, as someone who works in the church, I can attest that it is not just the citizens of Nutley who don't like change. No one likes change. So I wasn't worried about that. But what I found here in Nutley has been a municipality bordered not just by the Parkway and the Passaic River, but a community bound together with cords of faith, of family, and of course, sports. Go Raiders!
The Nutley Unico Scholarship Committee and the recipients: from left, back row, Jerry Deltufo, Greg Tolve, Danielle Manganello, Tom Pucci, Alan Genitempo, Frank Cocchiola, Susan Scavone, Sal Ferraro, Michele Flietell and Nick Russo; and, front row, Jeffrey Quinn, Sofia Duca, Nicole Avallone, Charles Giachetti, Tessa Murray and Ariana DiGiacomo.
Photo Courtesy of UNICO
Photo Courtesy of Nutley Twp.
recognized June as Pride Month.
The Nutley High School graduating Class of 2026
Andrew E. Abdelmalak
Emma Victoria Acosta
Rain Aguado-Caceres
Sadine Imad Ahmad
Brayden J. Aiello
Angelo J. Albanese
Makayla Albert
Max William Algieri
Alexa C. Almanzar
Samantha Q. Alper
Abdelrahman Ahmed Mohamed Sabry
Hamed Aly
Alexandra F. Amiths
Matthew Antonio Anci
Cameron P. Anderson
Alexa G. Anselmi
Daniela N. Apolo-Ugalde
Dante F. Avallone
Nicole Fernanda Avallone
Nola P. Avanzato
Victor M. Aybar Gil
Philip James Balsamo
Angelo M. Barbosa
Isabella Valentina Barrero
Aidan John Battaglia
Desmond Bay
Yasmine Bellouzi
Nawfal Benali
Elkin Alejandro Bermeo Chillogalli
Gabriel Bermo
Xavier J. Berra
Angelina Kathleen Bido
Julian Robert Bok
Charlie A. Bolanos
Jayden V. Bollander
Lucia Patrice Bonfim
Rachelle L. Bonilla
Lincoln T. Boyes
Victoria Emie Cabezas
Angel Caffrey
Christian Caffrey
Sara Calderon Walteros
Meredith A. Calicchio
William J. Callahan
Briana Marie Calo
Cienna A. Campbell
Sofia Rosina Candia
Mia G. Canova
Jalyn A. Caraballo
Steven Seamus Carroll
Abigail L. Carson
Luis J. Casco Jr
Mateo P. Castaneda
Kathleen Denise Liquigan Castro
Lucas E. Castro-Segura
Jared A. Celi
Kaiden M. Cerniglia-Rapavi
Patrick C. Chell
Te-Hsin L. Cheng
Christopher Cifelli
Christopher J. Ciotoli
James M. Colarusso
Congratulations Congratulations
Izayah E. Colon
Rodolfo D. Cordoba
Briella Lucia Costa
Gianni Luciano Costa
Lily G. Coulson
Angelina Marie Cruz
Marlyn Cruz
Santino R. Cundiff
Anthony J. Curcio
Michael R. D'Andrea *
Anthony J.
Marcela
Michael S. Depano Jr
Olivia M. De Vita
Josh B. Diaz
Guillermo E. Diaz Ramirez
Arianna DiGiacomo
Veronica Daniels *
Emily P. de Dios
DelGuercio
Carolina Del Pino Gutierrez
Graduates get plenty of advice as they go forward
(Continued from Page 8)
Rocco W. Diliberto
Briahna DiMatteo
Christine Gabrielle B. Dionisio
Jordan E. Divilio
Ata Dogan
Vanessa Dries
Uma Duarte Nunez
Ethan J. Dublanica
Sofia N. Duca
Matthew Dudek
Lucie Dugan
Genesis V. Eljarrah
Abigail A. Elphick
Isabel A. Erraez
Ivana V. Escudero Aviles
Alexander Massoud Hernandez EsHaq
Ricky Michael Evans Jr
Vevina Z. Fan
Patrick Farag
Isabella Fernandez
Cassandra Ferraro
Fabricio A. Fleitas-Fonseca
Maxwell G. Forcer
Nicholas Foti
Mariah A. Franqui
Alyssa Elizabeth Fresolone
Karen Fukuoka-Schreiber
Vince Gabriele
Grace F. Gaccione
Nicolas Daniel Gaccione
Antonio Michael Gagliardo
Daniela Gagliardo
Ava Marianna Galasso
Nathan A. Garcia
Tymeir N. Garcia
Marisa Mireya Garcia Nunez
Charles J. Giachetti
Samantha Gil
Emma J. Grzywinski
Samuel L. Guanzon
Sarita Guerra
Gabriella Guerrero
Jenny K. Gugliuzza
Elijah D. Guimary
Jorge E. Guzman Jr
Jef E. Guzman Moreno
Nevaeh J. Hardy
Jacob S. Harlow
Rosa Maria M. Harrington
Alexander R. Hernandez Wobick
Lara S. Hindistan
McKenna C. Holmes
Katie L. Hoo
Isabella Hosseiny
Nicolle Hurtado Leon
Devin J. Iacobucci
Ava Fatima Iacona
Eva A. Ilardi
Amal O. Jaber
Maxi-Yadriel E. Jankowski-Hernandez
Kimberly Y. Jerez
Annabell E. Johnson
Eva R. Justiniano
Brooke Taylor Kaliko
Gabor G. Kanyasi
Anastazia Karwowski
Rejan Kazazi
Emily Kean
Brianne M. Kelly
Jaeden J. Knott
Martyna Kolakowski
Michael Lawrence Koster
Viha Kothakonda
Christopher C. Kovacs
Jake Robert Kremer
Tristan J. Lambo
Matthew K. Lee
Justin B. Lees
Kehara Leon
Jamil R. Lewis Jr
Matthew George Loeser
Aiden J. LoMonaco
Isabella Lopes
Gianna Lugo
Sarah Magane
Angelo J. Marcotti
Marcello B. Marfia
Nicholas Jake Marin
Karla Elainy Martinez Salas
Mark D. Mattiazzi
Daniel J. Mawhinney
William Adelmo McCusker
Katelyn S. McNamara
Colin M. McNulty
Allan N. Medina
Nahomy A Mejia Rodriguez
Jacob Miskell
Michael W. Misner
Julia Rosa Montes
Emerson S. Morales
Matias O. Morales
Damian G. Muffolini
Muhammad Affan Mughal
Tessa Marie Murray
Gianni Nabes
Catalina Raine Narvaez
Winifred E. Ndubuisi
Derek J. Nelson
Sophia Nguyen
Ryan J. Niland
Madelynn R. Nolasco
Shane M. O'Connor
Liam G. O'Farrill
Ethan J Morais Oliveira Matthew Oliver
Alekxa Cecilia Ortega
Abdelrahman Ahmed Owis
Sindy Pacheco
Haley G. Papeo
Nicholas F. Papeo
Joshua H. Park
Gia Marie Pasquale
Pooja N. Patel
Radhika P. Patel
Jeslyn J. Paulino
Sebastian Peña
Paulina Pérez Henríquez
Christopher Petit-Frere
Salvatore F. Petracco
Duke Jared Pilgrim
Kevin Qiu
Manuell L. Quezon
Jeffrey Michael Quinn
Isabela Ramirez Genao
Joelz I. Ramos
Samantha A. Ramos
Meya A. Ranges
Daniela Recio
Enessa M. Reyimbayeva
Future is full of promise for Class of 2026 graduates
(Continued from Page 9)
Musa M. Riaz
Alexis C. Richards
Sarah G. Rindfleisch
Xandy G. Rivera
Brooklynn A. Robinson
Melanie D. Robinson
Ava R. Rodier
Adrian A. Rodriguez
Alexander Rodriguez
Eugenio Roman III
Amaya Elizabeth Roman
Aiden C. Rosamilia
Cameron Frances Ross
McKenna Jeanne Ross
Chase A. Rousselle
Daniel R. Ruthman
Emily A. Ruthman
Lyla M. Sacchetti
Jacob K. Salvador
Diego Sanchez
Faith D. Sanchez
Julián Sánchez
Adrianna Bella Santangelo
Arsenio Andres Santiago
Alexa A. Sauchelli
Patrick M. Sceppaguercio
Liam Schoch
Dominic Michael Searls
Matthew J Serritella
Kamron J. Shaw
Delaney R. Shedd
John Joseph Sibello
Steve Patrick Siguencia
Joshua G. Silva Arlind Sinani
Patrick Smith V
Noah A. Smith
John A. Snowdon IV
Nicolas J. Spada
Sebastian Stroczan
Vinuth C. Sumanasiri
Sergio Satoshi Takemoto
Izzabella Timonera
Jeremiah M. Tirado
Dylan Damien Torres Isabella M. Tosi
JOMAR LAUNDROMAT JOMAR LAUNDROMAT
Jomar
MONDAY
Foster
The crowd was loud and happy during the ceremony
(Continued from Page 11)
Ethan J. Tramontana
Sydney Tramontana
Theodore T. Treglio
Alexis S. Tsambazis
Mya L. Tucci
Michael Turano Jr
Darien Valdez
Sienna S. Valdivieso
Russell A. Van de Zilver
Samuel Vargas
Brianna Velaochaga
Caroline Grace Vellon
Jack Ventura
Kayla Noel Verhasselt
Gabriele Vicari
Sebastian G. Vieira
Sean Tyler Vilchez
Congratulations Congratulations
Ian Marley Villanueva
Cecilia Wassman
Syed A. Wasti
Zahir Teron Weatherington
Naomi C. Wei
Madisyn Joi Williams
Isabella Winn
Helena Frances Smolen Wuebben
Adam A. Youssef
Makayla Zacchia
Sabrina Zacchia
Mariah L. Zamot
Siqi Zheng
Marguerite J. Ziek
Hannah E. Zink
Jenna Zoppi
Jorge Emilio Zurita Gainty
Evangelia E. Zygakis
CLASS OF 2026 CLASS OF 2026 NUTLEY HIGH SCHOOL NUTLEY HIGH SCHOOL
healthy living
Nutley resident raising pups to be Seeing Eye dogs
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
Theresa Marie Plummer, of Nutley, is an avid animal lover. All her life, she’s wanted a dog. Plummer’s wish came true when she was in middle school. Her mother was referred to the Seeing Eye Dog Puppy Raising Program, and they got their first puppy in 2011. Plummer, her mom and her sister raise the puppies together.
When Seeing Eye puppies reach the age of seven or eight weeks, they are delivered to the homes of volunteer puppy raisers who live in New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania and certain counties of Maryland, Delaware and New York. The foster families nurture and care for the puppies until they are about 13 to 16 months old. They teach the puppies basic obedience. They socialize them to a variety of social situations and experiences that range from shopping and car trips to visiting airports and boarding airplanes.
“It’s a lot of responsibility,” said Plummer.
Though the dog is not their own, Plummer said she loves the puppy as their own.
The type of dogs that are raised to be
Photos Courtesy of Theresa Marie Plummer
Pita is a puppy Theresa Marie Plummer and her family are raising to be a Seeing Eye dog.
Seeing Eye dogs are golden retrievers, labrador retrievers, German shepherds, labrador crosses and poodles for people who are hypoallergenic. “Poodles are so smart,” said Plummer. “Our job is to teach them house manners, socializing and how to be a good dog.”
Plummer and her family have taken the dogs to New York City, Newark Airport, sports events, and on many forms of transportation, such as ferries, buses,
monorails and trains. “We’ve taken them to college, to work places, the Nutley Library, farmer’s markets, the mall. We do overnight trips to Washington, D.C., Lake George, Cooperstown. It’s great exposure to have the dogs familiar with hotel situations when they go off with a blind person. I try to have the dog as socialized and exposed to as many situations. We have the dogs experience a life of socialization, not at home all the time. Have experience around crowds, other dogs, different age groups, how to behave in the public setting.”
The most challenging aspect of being a puppy trainer is letting them go, according to Plummer. “We love them so much,” she said. “They’re going to an amazing visually impaired person who needs them.”
After the dog leaves Plummer, they go to The Seeing Eye in Morristown to become a guide dog. Then, four months later, there is a Town Walk, where the foster family who raised the puppy attends to see what the dog learned. “How to stop at traffic, weave around a low hanging branch. They go through all these different obstacles,” said Plummer. “We don’t
teach them that. We teach them socialization, how to be a good-mannered dog.”
During the Town Walk, which is similar to graduation, the foster family isn’t allowed to make contact with the dog, so the dog doesn’t become reattached to the family. “It’s kind of like a good-bye but from a distance,” Plummer said. “It’s heartbreaking, but it’s a bittersweet feeling.”
After the Town Walk, the dogs are matched with a person.
But not all dogs pass as Seeing Eye guides, Plummer explained. One of her puppies was “way too distracted.” She said, “So they thought she would be a great bomb sniffer.”
Other dogs that don’t pass the test can also get a career change. In addition to being a bomb sniffer, other options include medical alert, law enforcement or becoming a therapy dog. There’s also the option of going on an adoption list or back to the person who raised the pup. Plummer and her family have adopted three of the dogs they raised. One is a therapy dog and all three are blood donors. In total, she and her family have raised 16 dogs since 2011.
Nutley man elected commander of New Jersey Detachment of Sons of The American Legion
Russell “Rusty” Myers III, of Sons of The American Legion (SAL) Squadron 70 of Nutley, was elected at the 63rd Detachment Convention in Wildwood as the state commander of the Detachment of New Jersey
“Brother Sons, I’m humbled and honored that you have placed your trust in me to be the face of this detachment for the next year,” Myers said at his installation. “I pray I’m up to the challenge.”
Being elected to that office, Myers is now responsible for leading New Jersey’s over 10,200 Sons from 130-plus squadrons across the state. He is the first state commander ever elected out of Nutley, and the first out of Essex County since 1990.
In a speech given at a social in Wildwood by American Legion Department Executive Committeeman Darrell Collins of Montclair, he called Myers “Essex’s favorite Son.”
In convention, with 45 squadrons represented, Myers was elected by unanimous vote to be the newest detachment, or state, commander with a one-year term which ends in June 2027.
His slogan for the year is “Honoring Our Past, Serving Our Future”, with an additional focus on administrative change to adapt to changing times and technology. He calls this year’s state officer’s commitment to serving the organization and our veterans “servant leadership.”
A member since 2018, Myers has
served at various levels throughout the SAL – at the local squadron, county, state, and national level. He currently serves as the editor of “The Millennium,” the newsletter of the Sons of The American Legion – which is distributed to the 400,200 members of the Sons nationwide – and sits on the National Media and Communication Commission. He has also served as detachment vice commander, detachment adjutant, legislative chairman, Children and Youth Commission chairman.
The Sons of The American Legion is a program of The American Legion, the nation’s largest veterans service organization. The SAL is committed to promoting the “Four Pillars” of its parent organization – Americanism, Veterans Affairs, a strong National Security, and Children and Youth.
A son is eligible for membership through the honorable war-time service of a veteran from whom he is descended, be it his father, mother, grandparents, or great-grandparents.
Myers is eligible for membership through the service of his father, Russ, who served in the Army in Vietnam in Long Lines Battalion North, 1st Signal Brigade. His father is also a 55 year member of American Legion Post 155 in Whippany,, and performed the installation ceremony.
He lives in Nutley, with wife Meghan and their three children – Abigail, Grace, and Jake.
Nutley’s Fourth of July plans announced
Mayor John V. Kelly, III and the Nutley Board of Commissioners have announced the plans for the Township of Nutley’s 2026 July 4th celebration scheduled for Saturday, July 4, beginning at 6 p.m.
“As in previous years, Nutley will be the destination to celebrate our nation's historic 250th birthday,” said Kelly. “We are looking forward to continuing our time-honored tradition of celebrating our nation's birth with family friendly
entertainment, food, and of course, fireworks!,”
Food vendors will line Franklin Avenue and Ultimate Entertainment will be on hand to provide music and games. Face painters, magicians and balloon artists will also be in attendance. The fireworks are scheduled to start at dusk. Franklin Avenue will be closed between Chestnut and Church Streets beginning at 3:30 p.m. and will not reopen until cleanup is finished.
Real Estate
NUTLEY HOME SALES
NUTLEY
37Mapes Ave$770,000 5/29/2026
78Hastings Ave$675,000 5/29/2026
40Highfield Ln$645,000 6/1/2026
401Walnut St$625,000 5/29/2026
19Entwistle Ave$406,000 5/28/2026
83Whitford Ave$1,200,500 5/27/2026
33Raymond Ave$885,000 6/1/2026
125Rutgers Pl$787,000 6/2/2026
37Mapes Ave$770,000 5/29/2026
78Hastings Ave$675,000 5/29/2026
40Highfield Ln$645,000 6/1/2026
Photo Courtesy of Sons of the American Legion
Rusty Myers, right, is installed in his new position as state commander by his father Russ Myers of Post 155.
REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE
NJ Emergency Rescue Mortgage Assistance program will be ending this September
Commissioner Tom Evans,director, Department of Revenue and Finance for the Township of Nutley, recently put out a statement informing residents that the New Jersey Emergency Rescue Mortgage Assistance (ERMA) program is officially ending on Sept. 30.
With the ERMA application portal closing in several weeks, the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) is providing affordable homeowners with a final opportunity to apply for hardship assistance.
Eligibility is limited to homeowners who suffered COVID-related financial hardships which have caused them to fall behind on mortgage payments, HOA fees, taxes, or certain other housingrelated expenses. This eligibility includes owners of restricted ownership units, according to the statement.
“I am very pleased that we are able to share this information,” Evans said. “My staff and I work tirelessly to find opportunities to assist all of our residents and those in need.
“Our goal is to consistently share information so our residents don’t miss
out on opportunities that may benefit them.”
The following is a program overview:
• Up to $75,000 per household for expenses which may include:
• Mortgage reinstatement
• Escrow shortages
• Delinquent property taxes
• Municipal or property tax liens
• Mortgage payments, including principal, interest, taxes, and homeowner’s insurance
To qualify for assistance, a homeowner must:
• Own and occupy an eligible one to four-unit primary residence
• Have experienced a COVID-19 related financial hardship, and have been unable to remain current on mortgage payments
• Meet household income limits
• Have been current on mortgage and property taxes as of January 2020.
For more information or to apply:
• Visit www.njhousing.gov
If you need additional assistance, call 1-855-647-7700.
OPEN SEASON — The Nutley Farmers Market is open for the summer and celebrating its 17th season. Opening day was Sunday, June 14, and the market will remain open, on Sundays, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., until Oct. 25. The market has been a community tradition since 2009, bringing together local farmers, food producers, artisans, musicians and neighbors in the heart of Nutley. Visitors can shop for a wide variety of fresh, regionally grown produce, farm-fresh eggs and meats, baked goods, flowers, honey, cheeses, pickles, specialty foods and handcrafted products while enjoying live musical entertainment each week.
Photo by Joe Ungaro
• BARTELL – Rose M., of Nutley, formerly of Newark; June 12. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, 96.
• BLAIR – Kenneth Allan, of Riverdale, formerly of Nutley; June 7. Auto parts coordinator. Husband, father, grandfather, uncle, 74.
• BYERS – Josephine A., of Newark, formerly of Belleville, Kearny; May 31. Worked for Bell. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, 84.
• CABANATAN – Virginia Calungsod, of Belleville; May 18. Bookkeeper of an accounting firm. Mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, 89.
• CRESPO – Alan Michael, of Belleville; April 22. Professional carpenter, 65.
• DAMIANO – Judith, of Belleville, formerly of Harrison; May 19. Dancer, teacher’s assistant. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, 81.
• ESPOSITO – Linda Marie, of Belleville; May 18. Wife, mother, sister, grandmother, 74.
• FEDE – Antoinette, of Nutley, formerly of Jersey City, North Bergen; May 30. Administrative assistant. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 96.
• FREDA – Avril, of Belleville; May 28. Artist. Widow, mother, aunt, 80.
• HEALY – Paul, of Woodland Park, formerly of Nutley; June 5. Teacher. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, 81.
• JEANNETTI – Dominick C., of Belleville; June 10. USMC veteran. UPS employee. Widower, father, 75.
• LILOIA – Pasquale Gaetano, of Freehold; May 10. Belleville business owner. Husband, father, uncle, grandfather, 88.
• LOWACK – Albert C., of Lakewood, formerly of Belleville; June 14. Korean War Army veteran. Retired Belleville FD captain. Husband, father, grandfather, 92.
• MOLINARO – Theresa, of Southborough, Mass., formerly of Nutley; May 30. Teacher’s aide. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, 86.
• PALADINO – Dolores Joy, of Belleville; May 17. Retired waitress. Mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 95.
• PEDONE – Susan Anne, of Belleville; May 16. Daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, 54.
• PRIOLO – Michael J., of Nutley, formerly of Clifton; May 18. Retired Army vet. Parts department manager. Usher, avid bowler. Brother, 81.
• SAMMARRO – Michael Jr., of Montville, formerly of Nutley; June 10. Business owner. Army veteran. Husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, 93.
• VENTURA – Frank J., of Nutley; May 23. Army veteran. Business owner. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, 89.
• VOCATURO – Robert R., of Nutley; June 18. Business owner. Retired Passaic County Sheriff’s Dept. officer. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, 61.
• ZIGARELLI – Ron “Ziggy,” of Nutley; June 11. Business owner. Husband, father, brother, 63.
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.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
To place your free listing, send information to the editor at essexcty@thelocalsource.com or at 1291 Stuyvesant Ave., Union, NJ 07083. Faxes may be sent to 908-686-0401.
COMEDY
LADIES OF LAUGHTER PERFORM on Thursday, July 23, at 7:30 p.m., at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets are at https://www.sopacnow.org/.
COMEDIAN JAMIE LISSOW performs on Friday, Sept. 25, at 8 p.m., at NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
COMEDIAN MARIO ADRION presents his fresh perspective on Sunday, Oct. 4, at 8 p.m., at NJPAC, Victoria Theater Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
MARTIN LAWRENCE LIVE on Friday, Oct. 2, at 8 p.m., NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
COMEDIAN DARREN FLEET TO PERFORM LIVE AT NJPAC on Friday, Oct. 23, at 8 p.m., Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
THE BALD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: VERY BALD, VERY BEAUTIFUL, Trixie Mattel and Katya Zamolodchikova bring their comedy and beauty insights to Prudential Hall on Friday, Nov. 6, at 7:30 p.m., at Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
THE FUTURE OF COMEDY ROBBY HOFFMAN takes the stage on Thursday, Nov. 19, at NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. COMEDIAN MATT MCCUSKER BRINGS HIS THE HEALING FREQUENCY TOUR TO NJPAC on Friday, Nov. 20, at 8 p.m., Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark, Tickets at www.njpac.org.
COMEDIAN RON TAYLOR LIVE AT NJPAC Thursday, Dec. 10 at 8 p.m., Victoria Theater,
Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org.
DANCE
RIVERDANCE 30 – THE NEW GENERATION performances on Feb. 12-14 at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org.
LECTURES
IYANLA VANZANT LEADS A TRANSFORMATIONAL CONVERSATION INSPIRED BY HER NEW BOOK "SPIRITUAL HYGIENE" on Sunday, July 19, at 5 p.m. at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
MUSIC
MUSICIAN AND COMPOSER HERBIE HANCOCK performs on Friday, July 31, at 8 p.m., at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
REGGAE GREAT BERES HAMMOND AND THE KING OF DANCEHALL BEENIE MAN AT THE PRUDENTIAL CENTER on Saturday, Aug. 29, at 8 p.m., at 25 Lafayette St., Newark. Tickets are at Ticketmaster.com.
CYRILLE AIMÉE QUARTET performs on Thursday, Sept. 10, at 7:30 p.m., at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets are at www.sopacnow.org/.
SUNNY JAIN’S WILD WILD EAST performs on Friday, Sept. 18, at 7:30 p.m., at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets are at www.sopacnow.org/.
BOSTON-BASED FOLK-POP QUARTET DARLINGSIDE performs on Friday, Sept. 25, at 7:30 p.m., at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets are at www.sopacnow.org/.
WILLIE NILE performs on Saturday, Sept. 26, at 7:30 p.m., at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets are
at www.sopacnow.org/.
SOMI PERFORMS on Saturday, Oct. 3, at 7:30 p.m., at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets are at https://www.sopacnow.org/.
BRIAN MCKNIGHT PERFORMS on Saturday, Oct. 17, at 8 p.m., at UCPAC’s Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway. Tickets are at https://ucpac.vbotickets.com.
FRIENDS OF THE BROTHERS, A CELEBRATION OF THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND, on Friday, Oct. 2, at 7:30 p.m., at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets are at www.sopacnow.org/.
BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA PERFORM A TRIBUTE TO STEVIE WONDER’S SONGS IN THE KEY OF LIFE on THursday, Oct. 15, at 7:30 p.m., at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets are at www.sopacnow.org/.
LITTLE BIG TOWN PERFORMS AT NJPAC on Oct. 22, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org.
PERUVIAN SINGER EVA AYLLÓN SHARES THE STAGE WITH GRAMMY NOMINATED DANIELA DARCOURT on Friday, Oct. 30, at 8 p.m., at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
FADO STAR MARIZA WITH SPECIAL GUESTS DEREK GRIPPER AND DUO ANDALUS on Sunday, Nov. 1, at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
VIOLINIST ITZHAK PERLMAN RETURNS TO NJPAC FOR AN AFTERNOON OF MUSIC AND STORYTELLING on Sunday, Oct. 25, at 3 p.m., at Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
SHEMEKIA COPELAND & JONTAVIOUS
WILLIS perform on Saturday, Nov. 21 at 7:30 p.m. at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets are at https://www.sopacnow.org/.
DAR WILLIAMS PERFORMS on Sunday, Dec. 6, at 7:30 p.m., at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets are
at https://www.sopacnow.org/.
DRU HILL AND MÝA SET PERFORM a night of chart-topping hits on at 8 p.m. Dec. 11, NJPAC, Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org
THEATER
THE FLIP SIDE, A COMPLETELY IMPROVISED THEATRICAL COMEDY EXPERIENCE, IS PERFORMED July 11 at 8 p.m. at Madison Community Arts Center, 10 Kings Road, Madison. Tickets are $23, and $18 for students 25 and younger. To purchase advance tickets, go to Vivid Stage's website. For more information on this or any of Vivid Stage’s programs, call 908-514-9654.
JOSHUA HENRY WILL OPEN KEAN STAGE’S 2026-2027 SEASON WITH TWO PERFORMANCES OF HIS SHOW “GET UP, STAND UP!” on Sunday, Sept. 13, at 2 and 7 p.m., at Enlow Recital Hall, 215 North Ave., Hillside. Tickets range from $58 to $88 and can be purchased online at keanstage.com or by contacting the Box Office at 908-737-7469.
SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS –UNITED EUROPEAN BALLET CO. on Oct. 15, at 7 p.m., at UCPAC's Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway. Tickets are at https://ucpac.vbotickets.com/.
THE IMPROVISED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY performs on Friday, Oct. 16, at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 17, at 7:30 p.m. at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. Tickets are at www.sopacnow.org/.
DEF POETRY REUNION DURING DODGE POETRY FESTIVAL ON Saturday, Oct. 17, at 5 p.m., at NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
THE RESET: IMMERSIVE SOUND BATH EXPERIENCE LED BY RENOWNED SOUND HEALING ARTIST DAVIN YOUNGS on Saturday, Oct. 24, at 8 p.m., at NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
NHS senior athletes announce college decisions
The following Nutley High School senior student-athletes were honored during a ceremony announcing their college decisions:
Baseball
• Charles “CJ” Giachetti – Centenary University
• Eugenio Roman – Centenary University
Lacrosse
• Michael Koster – Westminster College
• Angelo Albanese – Ursinus College
Track and field
• Ryan Niland – Kean University
• Damien Muffolini – Wilkes University
Cross-Country
• Meya Ranges – West Chester University
Wrestling
• Chris Cifelli – Centenary University
Football
• Santino Cundiff – Westminster College
• Zahir Washington – Keystone College
Cheer
• Ava Iacona – Montclair State University
Girls Volleyball
• Sydney Tramontana – Ramapo College
Dance
• Naomi We – Ohio State University
Softball has stellar year
NHS players honored
The Nutley High School softball team, under longtime head coach Luann Zullo, enjoyed a stellar season this spring, finishing with an 18-10 record, including reaching the semifinals of the Essex County Tournament and the quarterfinals of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association’s North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 state tournament.
The following NHS players earned All–Super Essex Conference–Liberty Division honors, as voted by the division. First Team
• Gigi Liloia, sophomore.
• Camryn Ortega, junior.
Second Team
• Sofia Rocha, junior.
• Sophia DeLanzo, sophomore.
• Makenna DeJianne, junior.
Honorable Mention
• Kaitlyn Nellegar, junior.
A FINE SEASON — The Nutley High School baseball team enjoyed a successful 16-14 season this spring, including finishing runner-up in the Greater Newark Tournament. Above, junior Andrew Raboy waits for a pitch at the plate and, at right, fellow junior Kennan Bilotta fires a pitch during the 14-3 home win over Wayne Valley in the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 state tournament quarterfinals on May 29. NHS then lost at Old Tappan 7-1 in the semifinals on June 3 to end the season.
NHS track stars earn All-American
Nutley High School track and field standouts Meya Ranges and Havana Alvarez earned All-American honors after putting up stellar performances at the adidas Track and Field Nationals in Greensboro, North Carolina, June 18-21.
In the Championship Girls 2-Mile Run, Ranges, a recent graduate, took sixth place in 11 minutes, 34.89 seconds..
honors
at adidas Nationals
In the Championship Girls Long Jump, Alvarez, a rising junior, took fourth place with a leap of 18 feet, 5.25 inches.
Alvarez qualified for the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association’s state Meet of Champions at Pennsauken on June 3. At the Meet of Champions, she placed 18th in the long jump at 16-10.25.
Photo Courtesy of Nutley High School
Nutley High School senior student-athletes were honored during a ceremony as they announced their college choices.
Photos Courtesy of Jose Raboy
Guinto graduates from Cedar Crest College
Jessica Guinto, of Belleville, graduated with a doctor of occupational therapy from Cedar Crest College in May at PPL Center in Allentown, Pa.
Zazzali completes thesis
Nutley resident Edward Zazzali, who majored in civil engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, completed a thesis titled "ACSA 2026 Steel Design Competition." At WPI, the thesis is a researchdriven, professional-level project that challenges students to solve the kinds of problems they would typically encounter in their professional discipline. Zazzali graduated with a bachelor's degree.
Nutley students make Dean’s List at Quinnipiac
The following students from Nutley were named to the dean's list for the Spring 2026 semester at Quinnipiac University: Elizabeth Desantis, Serena Genna, Gabriella Gigante and Ella Romonowski. To qualify for the dean's list, students must earn a grade point average of at least 3.5 with no grade lower than C.
Nutley residents make the Dean’s List at Fairfield
Nutley residents Lauren Bowling, Mary Rado, Charlotte Romano, Riley Sebastiano and Mark Surretsky received Dean's List Honors for the Spring 2026 semester at Fairfield University in Connecticut. In order to be placed on the Dean's List, students must have completed a minimum of 12 credit hours in a semester and have attained a semester grade point average of 3.50 or better.
Silva named to Dean’s List by Champlain College
Joaquim Silva, of Nutley, was named to the Champlain College Online Dean's List for the Spring 2026 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 the Dean’s List at Champlain College
Jonathan Ingles, of Belleville, was named to the Champlain College Dean's List for the Spring 2026 semester. Students on the Dean's List have achieved a grade point average of 3.5 or higher during the semester. Ingles is currently majoring in game design.
Forlenaz graduates from Emmanuel College
Emanuel Forlenza of Nutley graduated cum laude from Emmanuel College in May.
Guzman graduates from Bucknell
Bella Guzman, of Nutley, graduated with a bachelor of arts in psychology from Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pa. on Sunday, May 17. Guzman also made the Dean’s List for the Spring semester.
Granelli makes the Dean’s List at Bucknell University
Nutley resident Erin Granelli, a member of the Class of 2028 studying economics, made the Dean’s List for the Spring semester at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pa.
Baunhuber makes the President’s List
Ava Baunhuber, of Nutley, was named to the College of Charleston Spring 2026 President's List. Baunhuber is majoring in communication. To qualify for the President's List, students must earn a GPA of 3.800 or higher and complete a minimum of 12 semester hours.
Shinin makes the Dean’s list at Charleston
Stephanie Shinin, of Belleville, was named to the College of Charleston Spring 2026 Dean's List. Shinin is majoring in finance. To qualify for the Dean's List, students must earn a GPA of 3.500 or higher and complete a minimum of 12 semester hours.
DeVito makes the Dean’s List at Univ. of Hartford
The University of Hartford recently announced that Angela DeVito of Nutley was named to the University of Hartford's Dean's List for the spring 2026 semester.
McGuire on the Dean’s List at University of Hartford
Morgan McGuire, of Belleville, was named to the University of Hartford's Dean's List for the spring 2026 semester. The Dean's List recognizes students achieving superior academic standing. The requirement, with some exceptions, is a grade point average of at least 3.0 and no grade below C.
Pimental named to Dean’s List and President’s List
Lianais Pimentel, of Belleville, was named to the Dean's List and President's List at the University of Hartford for the spring 2026 semester. The Dean's List requires a grade point average of at least 3.0 and no grade below C. The President's List recognizes a select group of students reaching the highest level of academic standing. To be placed on the President's List, students must maintain a GPA of at least a 3.75 and receive grades of C or better.
S W BROWN & SON
FUNERAL HOME
John F. Brown, Mgr NJ Lic No. 2633
267 Centre Street, Nutley 973-667-0875
www.swbrownandson.com
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
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368 Cortlandt Street, Belleville 973-759-2005
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NURSERY SCHOOL
634 Mill Street, Belleville 973-751-6380
WALT SMITH
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT
CONSULTANT
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568 Prospect Street, Nutley 973-931-2686
PROPONENT
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NUTLEY JOURNAL
BELLEVILLE POST
1291 Stuyvesant Avenue
Union 908-686-7700
EssexNewsDaily.com
GREGORY PEREZ, D M D
230 Centre Street Nutley 973-667-1095
JOMA
