Attic writers step up for The Phoenix
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
The Montclair Public School District is dealing with a financial crisis.
The district is facing a budget deficit of approximately $19.6 million, which has led to teacher layoffs and clubs being cut.
A Montclair High School English teacher was concerned the school would lose its literary magazine, The Phoenix, which is a digital publication. Students from Montclair High School’s Creative Writing Club put the magazine together with as many as 30 kids working on the publication as writers, artists, and photographers.
To keep the magazine going, $750 was needed to publish for another year according to English teacher Jessica Buel.
“When we found out in October (that funding was cut) they (the students) were worried about the future of the club and the literary magazine,” she said.
Evan Dickerson teaches radio broadcasting, creative writing, and film analysis at Nutley High School. He’s also the literary advisor to Nutley High School’s literary magazine, The Attic.
Literary magazines are important to Dickerson. The Attic has been around since 1920 and it’s important for him to keep it going. When he saw an article on a local news site about Montclair schools being in a deficit, he knew he’d be devastated if he was a senior, was able to publish something, and then have it taken away from him.
“I assumed things were bad, but I didn’t know first-hand,” he said. “All I knew, they were losing funding for their magazine. I shot her (Buel) an email.”
Buel and Dickerson had worked together before at the Montclair Literary Festival. When Dickerson offered Buel help, she jumped at the chance.
Dickerson arranged to have a fundraiser open mic at the Montclair Film Theater last month. “They do amazing community events,” Dickerson said. “I had a lot of friends there. I reached out to a buddy of
mine. They hosted us. It’s a very different vibe being in a beautiful theater as opposed to a school cafeteria. Allowing us to host it there was special because of their kindness.”
On Jan. 15, students from both Nutley and Montclair high schools participated in the open mic. Some students read poetry, others read short fiction. Musicians sang and played guitar. “A large range of expression,” said Dickerson.
Between donations and snacks sold, $500 was raised, which will cover a partial of the costs to keep The Phoenix up and running another year.
Buel said that the students were amazed.
“Our stress was eased by the giving nature of another group of students,” she said.
Being a Nutley resident herself, Buel found the event to be very heartwarming.
“Looking out at the audience and seeing community members, and seeing students that I love and care for, having these two groups come together, it was full circle for me,” Buel said.
Buel said that she was under the impression that she and Dickerson were going to split the funds earned for their schools.
“Having Mr. Dickerson give us all the funds that night was amazing,” Buel said. “We don’t know what we’re going to face, but this is certainly helpful.”
Dickerson said that his intention from the start was to give the entire funds raised to Buel, though she offered to split it.
“I was thrilled to raise the funds and find a worthy cause,” he said. “We live in a time where the arts are being defunded. We need to protect that as much as we can.”
Photos by Darshini Radhakrishnan
Above, Nutley High School student Jake Bing takes the stage at a fundraiser for Montclair High School’s literary magazine. Below, Montclair High School teacher Jessica Buel and Nutley High School teacher Evan Dickerson.
Phoenix Center students enjoy Valentines Day party and dance
Students from the Phoenix Center, which serves children with autism and other disabilities, celebrated Valentine’s Day with their parents and peers from Washington Elementary School as part of the Phoenix Center’s Inclusion Program.
“We encourage parents and teachers to foster opportunities to create meaningful interactions like this,” said Julie Mower, executive director of The Phoenix Center. “This not only diversifies the educational experience of all students, it creates an environment of sharing and tolerance and embracing differences and learning approaches.”
Through shared activities, Washington Elementary students gain a deeper understanding of inclusion and neurodiversity, learning to celebrate differences. At the same time, Phoenix Center students benefit from peer interaction that supports social growth, communication skills, and confidence.
“Diversity is really really important to teach our students,” Mower said. “It’s important for everyone to understand that we are a diverse community. We all have similar wants and needs. We all have similar life goals. We all need socialization, to be with others. You want to have connections with others. It’s important.”
Mower said the two schools have been collaborating for about 10 years.
Washington is a short walk away making the collaboration easy, she said.
“They’re right around the corner,” Mower said. “We can walk to them or visa versa.
Their students are amazing.”
The students from Washington school arrived at about 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 13, and made valentines with some of the Phoenix students and then distributed them.
“They made valentines with our students and then personally handed them to each one of our students,” Mower said, adding “We have 137 students.”
The Washington students who participate are part of a student ambassador program. Through shared play and interaction, they gain a firsthand understanding of inclusion and neurodiversity. They learn that while every child grows and learns at their own pace, those unique differences are something to be celebrated and embraced.
“Students from Washington learn the importance of being inclusive and that we are all a little different no matter where we go to school,” Mower said.
By interacting with neurotypical peers, Phoenix Center students gain valuable social modeling that fosters their verbal growth and helps them practice new ways of expressing themselves.
“It goes both ways,” said Kim Robinson, who is president of the school’s Parents Committee.
Robinson has twin, 12-year-old boys at the school, which she said has been very good for their development.
“They’re good here, they are loved,” Robinson said of her children.
The passing out of valentines was followed by a dance party in the school’s gym with Phoenix parents joining the fun.
Photos by Joe Ungaro
Friends from Washington Elementary School and parents joined the pre-Valentine’s Day fun at the Phoenix Center in February.
Commissioner provides update on property tax relief program
New Jersey’s Stay NJ property tax relief payments will soon begin arriving in mailboxes across the state.
The program, launched in 2025, is designed to help senior homeowners afford to remain in New Jersey during retirement by significantly reducing their property tax burden.
Stay NJ provides eligible residents with a reimbursement of 50 % of their property tax bill, up to a maximum of $13,000. For the 2024 tax year, the benefit is capped at $6,500.
According to the New Jersey Department of the Treasury, beginning Feb. 9 the State began issuing checks to qualifying recipients. Payments will be made quarterly, generally timed when property taxes are due. Unlike the ANCHOR program – which allowed some recipients to choose direct deposit – all Stay NJ benefits will be issued as paper checks sent through the mail.
To be eligible for Stay NJ, residents must:
• Be 65 or older
• Have owned and occupied their New Jersey home for all 12 months of 2024
• Have income under $500,000
“Daily my office helps our senior community file for both the Property Tax Freeze and Anchor programs,” Commissioner Tom Evans,director of the Department of Revenue and Finance says. “The Stay NJ program provides critical property tax relief and greater financial flexibility for our senior community. We are ready to assist here as well.”
Eligible seniors were required to file the PAS 1 application by Oct. 31, 2025. This unified form allows applicants to claim Senior Freeze, ANCHOR, and Stay NJ benefits in a single filing. Most applicants should already have received a determination letter from the New Jersey Division of Taxation explaining whether they qualify for Stay NJ and, if so, the amount of their benefit.
If you did not receive a letter or are unsure of your status, you can check your benefit online. The New Jersey Division of Taxation has created a portal where applicants can review their
Stay NJ, ANCHOR, and Senior Freeze information; the tool is accessible here: bit.ly/NJStay26.
Nutley 250th anniversary plans
Mayor John V. Kelly III and the Nutley Board of Commissioners recently announced plans for upcoming celebrations commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The celebration of our Nation’s 250th birthday will kick off in May with the honoring of our service members at Nutley’s annual Memorial Day Parade and continue through to July 4, which will culminate this auspicious occasion with the Township’s Independence Day Celebration which will include food, music, fun and an incredible firework display.
The list of participating organizations and additional planned events includes: Nutley VFW Post 493, Nutley Elks Lodge 1290, Nutley American Legion Post 70, Nutley Masonic Lodge 25, and Nutley Little Theatre. With events to include, History Trivia Night, History walks, Nutley Historical Society and History Movie Night, just to name a few. Dates and times are to be announced, according to the township..
For more information, please contact Daniel Jacoby at (973)284-4951 ext. 2428.
NUTLEYJOURNAL BELLEVILLE POST
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PUBLISHED BY: Worrall Media 1291 Stuyvesant Avenue Union NJ 07083
908-686-7700
Editorial@TheLocalSource.com
OBITUARY
Walter Worrall, founder and longtime publisher of Worrall Community Newspapers died Friday, February 13, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson, NJ. He was 96-years-old. Walter lived in North Haledon since 1957.
He was a former president and chairman of the New Jersey Press Association taking an active lead in many community issues and endeavors. He also served on the boards of many organizations including Union County Economic Development Corporation (UCEDC), Crimestoppers of Union County, Grace Methodist Church, High Mountain Presbyterian Church (formerly the First Presbyterian Church of North Haledon), Bloomfield College and multiple chambers of commerce in Essex and Union counties.
He was born June 6, 1929, in Paterson, NJ, the son of Walter and Frieda Worrall and lived in Haledon as a youth until the family moved to Washington in Warren County, NJ where he attended Washington High School (now Warren Hills Regional High School) as a 3 sport athlete in football, wrestling and baseball.
His cousin introduced him to Jean Vanderbeck, a girl in the choir at Van Riper Ellis Church in Fair Lawn. Walter served in the Army from 1950 to 1952 and while on leave from his service, Walter and Jean were married on December 29, 1951, the start of a rare and beautiful 74 years of love, devotion and unforgettable memories.
After his service ended he was employed as a Journeyman Printer at the Paterson Evening News and his lifelong work with newspapers was begun. While working at the Paterson News and while raising a family, Walter attended Rutgers Evening College until he graduated in 1958. He proceeded to begin a career in advertising sales with a position at The Citizen, a weekly newspaper in Denville, NJ. He went on to become the sales manager and then general manager while the newspaper was winning best in the state awards for advertising and editorial.
In 1968, he purchased the News-Record of Maplewood and South Orange followed by the 1971 purchase of the West Orange Chronicle, Orange Transcript and East Orange Record. In 1977, he purchased The Independent Press of Bloomfield and The Glen Ridge Paper. In 1978 he formed Maple Composition, a company that composed the growing group of weekly newspapers. This was followed with the 1982 purchase of Suburban Publishing in Union County, NJ, which published six Union County weeklies and two Essex County weeklies. That same year two startup newspapers were added … the Nutley Journal and Belleville Post. In 1990 newspapers were added in Hillside and Elizabeth and 1994 saw the addition of the Summit Observer and Cranford Eagle, followed by newspapers in Clark and Rahway. By then all four of his children had joined in working at the newspapers and operations were transitioning to the next generation but Mr. Worrall continued to come to the office until he reached 85 years of age.
His was a purpose driven life guided by faith and the knowledge that God was directing his path. He was guided by strong feelings and commitment for family and he had a penchant for helping others in need.
Walter had a passion for both flower and vegetable gardening and an amazement about seeds sprouting to life. He loved to read, listen to music, dance and ice skate and he was always ready for any challengers in a game of pinochle or in a bowling alley. Walter was an ardent fan of the football Giants and New York Mets and a lifelong fan of high school and collegiate wrestling and he had an ongoing interest in politics. We all raise a glass of Old Forester to toast an amazing life well lived.
Walter was predeceased by his parents Walter Hodson Worrall (1946) and Frieda Worrall (nee Wagner) (1987).
Publisher: David Worrall
Editor: Joe Ungaro
Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina
publication and any republication or broadcast without written permission is prohibited.
He is survived by his wife of 74 years Jean Worrall (nee Vanderbeck); son David Worrall and his wife Donna of Totowa; daughter Nancy Marchelle and her husband Dan of West Milford; son Raymond Worrall of North Haledon and his partner Isabelle Menard; son Peter Worrall of North Haledon and his partner Carol Vetere; as well as eight grandchildren, Jonathan (Kristina) Nicholas (Michele) and Megan (Stephen); Katherine (Matthew) Samantha (Cory) and Jeffrey (Kerry), and their mother Debra Worrall; and Jennifer (Vlad) and Sophie, and their mother Bonnie Worrall; and eight great-grandchildren, Nicholas, Chloe, Mila, Kelsey, McKenna, Logan, Lennon and Lina, as well as multiple nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited for visitation at Vander Plaat Vermeulen Funeral Home, 530 High Mountain Road, Franklin Lakes, NJ on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 2 to 6 p.m., with a memorial service at 5 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, Walter’s family would appreciate donations to the American Heart Association. For more information, go to vpmemorial.com.
Walter Worrall
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK: The blizzard, which occurred on the day Catholic Schools Week began, did not dampen the spirits of the St. Peter School community. The week included visits by parish priests to classroms as well as the concluding Mass celebrated with the school and parish communities. Registrations for the next school year are open.
SOUPERBOWL OF CARING: While millions of families around the country were busy stocking their fridges and pantries in preparation for Super Bowl LX, St. Peter School students made sure to collect cans of soup for their needy brothers and sisters. Some of the seventh grade students are seen delivering the proceeds to the St. Peter’s Food Pantry, which assists scores of struggling families on a bi-monthly basis.
Photos Courtesy St. Peter
YEAR OF THE HORSE - The Vietnamese community at St. Peter ushered in the Lunar New Year with a Mass and a reception in the school auditorium.
REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE
Is Spring the Best Time to Sell?
Every year around this time, the same question starts circulating in Nutley: “Should I wait until spring to list?”
It’s easy to understand why spring has earned that reputation. The weather improves, yards begin to bloom, and more buyers tend to be actively looking. Homes often show beautifully this time of year, and there’s a natural sense of movement in the market.
But here’s the part that’s often overlooked. While more buyers come out in the spring, so do more sellers. Increased activity doesn’t just mean more demand, it also means more competition. In a town like Nutley, where inventory has remained tight, a well-prepared home can still stand out in any season. Timing matters, but preparation and pricing matter more.
Central utility plant at ON3 gets grant, loan for modernization
NUTLEY — The 10 megawatt cohybrid power plant at Prism Capital Partners’ ON3 is set for continued modernization, thanks to substantial financial backing from PSE&G.
The utility company has provided a grant and interest-free loan, and Prism secured additional financing through Peapack Private Bank & Trust, to support the replacement of aging wood-structured cooling towers with modern, fiberglass models.
The campus spanning Clifton and Nutley is the first mixed-use redevelopment in New Jersey to integrate a central utility plant into its operation, significantly reducing energy draw from the grid and providing power redundancy for tenants, according to a press release from Prism.
initially constructed by Hoffmann-La Roche in 1943 with several additions in the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s – was renovated in 1985 with the installation of cogeneration equipment to provide supplemental energy on campus. Ongoing modernization of this utility will make ON3 even more selfsufficient as development accelerates. PSE&G recognizes the long-term value, and we are grateful for their partnership.”
For sellers, spring can absolutely be an opportunity, especially if the home is positioned thoughtfully and priced realistically. For buyers, it means more options compared to the winter months, but also the need to move decisively when the right property appears. The key isn’t simply “spring versus winter.” It’s understanding the specific conditions in your price range and neighborhood.
Real estate in Nutley tends to move in rhythms, not extremes. Spring may bring energy, but strategy, not season, is what ultimately shapes outcomes for Nutley home sellers.
Looking to Sell?
ON3 currently includes 1.55 million square feet of fully occupied space, with an anticipated additional build-out of up to 2 million square feet.
“Establishing an energy infrastructure that will support New Jersey’s economic growth is top of mind in our state, and rightly so,” said Eugene Diaz, principal partner at Prism. “ON3’s power plant –
The campus continues to take shape, with recent commitments by Chase and Chipotle, which will join Starbucks as ON3’s initial retail tenants. Hackensack Meridian Health & Wellness Center at Clifton opened in 2025, joining Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine and the Hackensack Meridian Health Center for Discovery and Innovation (an NIH-designated Clinical Research Center) at ON3.
The campus also houses Eisai Inc., Quest Diagnostics, The Ralph Lauren Corporation, Seton Hall University’s Graduate College of Nursing and School of Health and Medical Sciences, Modern Meadow, and Proponent Federal Credit Union.
A home at 225 Hillside Avenue
REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE
Debunking those common myths about metal roofs
Shopping for a new roof but unsure if metal is the right material for your home? Metal roofing is tougher, safer and longer-lasting than asphalt, with an expected lifespan of more than 50 years. Additionally, metal roof systems offer energy cost savings, withstand extreme weather, and boost resale value.
Despite these benefits, lingering myths sometimes prevent homeowners from opting for metal roofs. Below are answers to frequently asked questions about metal roofs to help you sort fact from fiction:
Can you walk on a metal roof? Tin roofs that bend, buckle or crumple are a thing of the past. Whether cleaning gutters, picking up storm debris or fetching a lost kite, you can do so on a high-quality metal roof. For example, ProVia shake, slate and barrel tile metal roofing is made with strong 26-gauge galvanized steel. Just be sure to ask your contractor or manufacturer where and how to walk on the roof and never do so when it is wet or extremely dusty.
Is metal roofing heavy? Metal panel roofing systems are heavy duty, not heavyweight, giving you the added strength of steel without added weight. The average persquare weight for an asphalt shingle roof is 240-270 pounds, and for slate is 800-1500 pounds. By contrast, a metal roof system is much lighter, coming in at a persquare-weight of only 108 pounds.
Metal slate roofing can combine beauty and durability.
includes attic space, the roof deck, underlayment materials that prevent moisture, and interior insulation, all of which absorb sound. When installed properly, a metal roofing system should be as quiet as any other roofing material.
Are metal roofs easily dented by hail? Metal roofs are well-known for being much more durable than other roofing materials, especially asphalt. In fact, in many areas where extreme weather can occur, metal roofs are the better choice for homes, so much so that many insurance companies offer price breaks for metal roof systems.
Do metal roofs attract heat? Metal roofs release solar heat much more quickly than asphalt roofs, which absorb heat with their petroleum and granular composition. ProVia metal roofing reduces the heat load of your house, providing up to 30% energy savings.
Do metal roofs impact cell reception? Metal roofing allows radio signals to pass through with little disruption and is no different in this regard to other common building materials like brick or concrete.
To learn more about the benefits of metal roofing, visit provia.com.
Are metal roofs noisy when it rains? In residential structures, roofing is part of a complete system that
Do metal roofs attract lightning? Metal is actually one of the best materials to have if your home were struck by lightning, working to disperse energy safely through the home’s structure rather than allowing it to penetrate or spontaneously ignite or shock. And metal is noncombustible, so if lightning does hit, a metal roof will not catch fire.
“Don’t let misinformation deter you from selecting your next roof wisely. Metal roofing is durable, beautiful and safe,” says Chance Shalosky, ProVia Metal Roofing product manager.
– StatePoint
healthy living
Nutley Cancer Foundation raisies awareness at kick off party
The Greater Nutley Cancer Foundation, in collaboration with the Department of Parks and Recreation, held a kickoff party on Feb. 12 to raise awareness in the Nutley community of the GNCF’s mission of providing individuals and families affected by cancer with support.
“We like to dwell on the positive side,” said Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci. “What can we do to help? How can we support you, not only financially, but physically, psychologically? What can we do to make your life better and make your situation better?”
The commissioner also explained that while the township has been assisting in raising funds for cancer patients, survivors, and research since 2004, the GNCF was established in 2024 to focus even further on how Nutley can help the community.
“We wanted to know, where is the money going? How many Nutley people are being helped? How much support is out there? And what else can we do as a community to help our people?” Tucci said. “I’m very proud to say, because of this phenomenal group, in the last two years we’ve raised $74,540. And that's because
of people like you. Everybody's busy, but you take the time out of your busy schedule to be here because this is important.”
GNCF President Deidre Hollywood also spoke to the organization’s mission and accomplishments. She described some of the many amazing achievements the GNCF has had this past year including supporting a retired township employee’s family after he lost the battle to cancer, supplying funds to a Catholic school teacher taking a leave of absence while dealing with her cancer diagnosis, providing finances to a seven-year old Nutley resident who is now in remission and so many more.
“We've been able to start putting together a plan to create a support group to help our community members who are affected by cancer as a survivor or a caregiver.” Hollywood said. “We've been letting people know who we are and how we want to help and we're only getting started.”
She also reported that the organization has made more than $12,000 in donations towards cancer research in addition to all their work with the Nutley community.
Dr. Claire Carter of Hackensack Merid-
large sums of money…that enable us to get up and go to work every day.”
She also spoke of her admiration for the Township of Nutley itself.
“This is one of the most heartwarming events I think I've attended in a while,” Carter said. “I'm actually getting emotional because of the community and support here, you just don't see every day.”
The GNCF presented Carter with a $6,500 check to go directly towards her research for finding a cure for pediatric cancer.
ian Health’s Center for Discovery and Innovation (CDI) was also in attendance and described to the crowd how their donation could make a difference with her work.
“The work we do in cancer research, especially pediatric cancer research, is one hundred percent funded by donations like this. So I can't emphasize enough how important a contribution is, big or small,” she said. “Most of my lab comes from donations like this… that build up into
The Kickoff Party is the first of many events leading up to the Festival of Hope, the foundation’s signature event and an outdoor festival featuring food, games and fundraising activities and contests. The third annual event will be held May 8 and the GNCF will be fundraising for cancer research and community support leading up to the festival.
“Please keep up the good work,” Tucci said to the audience. “Let's try and raise more than $74,500 this year so we can continue this fight against cancer and kill this miserable disease.”
For more information, please contact publicrelations@nutleynj.org.
File photo
Pictured at the 2025 kick off party are Dayna Hess of the Cancer Foundation and Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci.
The 47th annual Nutley St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The 47th Annual Nutley Irish American St. Patrick's Day Parade celebrating Irish culture is scheduled for Saturday, March 7.
Parade day begins with an Investiture Mass at 10 a.m. at St. Mary's Church, 17 Monsignor Owens Place, before marchers begin to line up, starting at noon, behind Holy Family Church, 28 Brookline Ave.
The parade steps off at 1 p.m. from the parking lot behind Holy Family Church, proceeding north along Franklin Avenue and finishing at the John Walker Middle School on Chestnut Street.
Nutley Irish American Association officers Board of Trustees
President - Deidre Hollywood
Vice President - Shane McClafferty
Treasurer - Brenda Sherman
Corresponding Secretary - Colleen Nielsen
Recording Secretary - Ellen Bennett
Legal Counsel - Frank Costenbader
Ellen Bennett
Deidre Hollywood
Dan Kane
Joseph McNish Jr
Shane McClafferty
Judy McIntyre
Colleen Nielsen
Steven Plumer
Brenda Sherman
Steve Tucholski
Tony Wieners
All
in this
parade photos
commemorative edition were taken by staff photographer Steve Ellmore at previous Nutley St. Patrick’s Day Parades.
Grand marshal for 2026 is long-time parade veteran
The Nutley Irish American Association has named Steve Blank the 2026 Grand Marshal of this year’s parade.
Blank is proud of his Irish heritage, which, on his mother’s side, comes from County Kilkenny and County Down. His mother, Jane (née Purdy), was a proud Irish woman, who would wear her shamrock scarf, Claddagh earrings, and St. Brigid cross to every Nutley St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Blank was born in the Ironbound section of Newark prior to moving to Nutley as a child. He attended St. Mary’s School, and is a proud graduate of Nutley High School and William Paterson College (University). He is currently retired, but started his career in local and state government before a long career in finance, working in corporate travel and expense
Blank has always been very involved in the Irish community and has demonstrated himself to be a true leader. He is one of the founding members of the Nutley Irish American Association and the Nutley St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Blank serves as the president of the Ironbound Irish Association, a men’s organization founded more than 91 years ago that celebrates the Irish heritage in the Ironbound section of Newark. He was honored to be named member of the year of this organization in 2007. Blank is also a bass drummer for St. Brendan the Navigator Pipes and Drums based out of Point Pleasant.
Blank moved down the shore in 2001 where he and his wife Cindy live in Toms River. Together they have a daughter Brianna who is married to Phill Costigan, and son Brett, who is married to Maria. Brett and Maria are expecting Blank’s first grandchild, a baby boy any day.
Blank has marched in 46 of the 47 Nutley St. Patrick’s Day parades and is excited to be marching as the 2026 Grand Marshal. He would like to congratulate his fellow honorees, Noel, Katherine, Brandon, and Victoria, and is honored to lead the way in 2026.
Above, Steve Blank, who has marched in 46 Nutley St. Patrick’s Day parades is this year’s grand marshal. Left, John Kaufman was last year’s grand marshal.
Electrician/drummer named deputy grand marshal
The Nutley Irish American Association has announced that Noel Lenahan is the 2026 Deputy Grand Marshal of this year’s parade.
Lenahan traces his Irish heritage to County Roscommon. His mother, Irene Finn, was from Ballaghaderreen and his father Joe was from Boyle.
Lenahan was raised in Belleville along with his two brothers Michael and Kevin. Lenahan is a graduate of St. Peter’s Grammar School in Belleville and Essex Catholic High School in Newark. He joined the Local 68 Operating Engineers Union in 1978 and he was a licensed electrician until he retired in 2017 after 39 years of service.
Lenahan has been a snare drummer in South Park & District Pipes and Drums for the past 20 years. He has been a member of the Giblin Association since 1978 and was an honoree at their cocktail party in 2025. He was a member of the Belleville Irish and has been a member of the Nutley Irish for the past 20 years.
Lenahan’s fondest memories of growing up in the Irish community revolve around the Irish neighborhood in Belleville on William Street and Bridge Street. He is grateful to be a member of the Morris & Finn families and growing up with the McManus and the Whalens. Lenahan’s family has been involved in the Nutley St. Patrick’s Day Parade since its inception and he wishes he was able to share this moment with his loved ones who have passed, including his parents, and his wife May.
Lenahan has one son, Brian, who has also been a member of Local 68 for the past 13 years and is the apple of Lenahan’s eye. Lenahan would like to thank his son Brian for going above and beyond in helping him so much in life.
Lenahan would like to thank the Nutley Irish for honoring him as deputy grand marshal. Most of all, Lenahan is excited to be walking down Franklin Avenue with his fellow dignitaries, being led by his friends in South Park & District Pipes and Drums.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day and Congratulations to the Nutley Irish American Alliance and Grand Marshal - Steve Blank
Deputy Grand Marshal - Noel Lenahan
NIAA Member of the Year - Katherine Bennett
NIAA Queen - Victoria Kealy Firefighter of the Year - Brandon Griffitt
Katherine Bennett is the NIAA Member of the Year
The Nutley Irish American Association has named Katherine Bennett the 2026 Member of the Year.
Bennett attributes her love for Irish culture and heritage to both her parents.
Her mother, Anne, was born and raised in Dublin, Ireland and her father, Michael, was born and raised in the Bronx, N.Y. A classic love story occurred when her father travelled to Ireland on vacation and met her mother.
On June 21, 1978, they were married in Ireland and then settled in Belleville. Bennett’s paternal grandparents were from County West Meath and County Cork. Having close ties to Ireland, Bennett truly values the relationships she has with her family in Ireland and is very fortunate to see her family often on either side of the Atlantic.
A lifelong resident of Belleville, Bennett graduated from Belleville High School in 1999.
She attained her bachelor of arts degree in elementary education/mathematical science from Kean University in 2004. She continued her education at Montclair State University where she earned a master of arts degree in teaching middle grades mathematics/supervision in 2012.
Bennett was an Irish step dancer for 12 years with the Peter Smith School of Irish Dance. During this time, she competed in various competitions, such as weekend Feis’ and the annual Mid-Atlantic Regional Oireachtas each November.
A few highlights from her Irish dancing days were performing at numerous St. Patrick’s Day events and parades, along with dancing on the great stages of both Radio City Music Hall and Carnegie Hall, as part of the entertainment for the Irish tenor, Frank Patterson.
Bennett has been a teacher at St. Philip Preparato-
ry School in Clifton for 20 years. She taught middle school math there for 18 years. She currently leads the Little Kaleidoscope program for first and second graders, which is a gifted and talented program in math and reading.
She is also the faculty adviser for the National Junior Honor Society and Student Council. In 2009, Bennett received the St. Philip the Apostle School Outstanding Catholic School Teacher Award and in 2023, she received the St. Philip the Apostle Parish Knights of Columbus Teacher of the Year Award. Bennett truly loves being a teacher and the joys that come with it.
A proud aunt to her nephew, Michaelangelo, and niece, Tonianne, Bennett enjoys teaching them about their Irish heritage and passing down family traditions. Being able to experience their first trip to Ireland in 2023 was truly special and memorable for the whole family.
Bennett is an active parishioner of Holy Family Church in Nutley, where she volunteers as a lector and helps at their annual Italian Festival. She is also an active member of the NIAA, where she helps at various events and fundraisers.
As a breast cancer survivor, she is very thankful to the Greater Nutley Cancer Foundation and the MRH Breast Cancer Foundation.
Bennett is excited and honored to represent the Nutley Irish as this year’s member of the year. It is also exciting for her to join her sisters who are past dignitaries. Her sister, Alicia Bennett Frannicola was the parade queen in 2013 and her sister, Ellen Bennett was the member of the year in 2018. Bennett is looking forward to marching up Franklin Avenue on Saturday, March 7 along with her family, friends, NIAA members, and fellow dignitaries.
Photo Courtesy NIAA
Katherine Bennett is this year’ Nutley Irish American Association Member of the Year.
Parade Queen played on Irish National soccer team
The Nutley Irish have announced that Victoria Kealy is the 2026 Parade Queen.
Kealy traces her Irish roots on her father’s side, where both of her grandparents were born and raised in Ireland near Dublin prior to emigrating to Kearny.
Kealy holds an Irish passport which has made traveling and exploring her heritage easier and more meaningful. Her most memorable trip was one she took with her grandmother, which unfortunately was the last trip her grandmother took back home prior to passing away in November 2025.
Born in Lyndhurst, Kealy moved to Nutley after kindergarten. She is a graduate of Spring Garden School, John Walker Middle School, and Nutley High School. She has a bachelor’s degree from Pace University, and masters and doctorate degrees from Felician University.
Kealy is an accomplished soccer player, having played on the collegiate level for Pace University. She was a member of the Irish National team which not only allowed her to compete at a high level but also gave her the chance to form lifelong friendships in Ireland. Through that experience, she traveled extensively across the country, gaining a deeper appreciation for its landscapes, towns, and regional cultures.
Kealy is currently employed as a post-doctoral psychologist in a hospital setting. She also works part-time in private practice, as well as working part-time as a soccer coach.
Kealy lives in Nutley with her dad, Dave Kealy, a retired captain of the Kearny Fire Department, her mom Angela and their great dane, Zucc. They love to travel together as a family, and look forward to many upcoming adventures!
Kealy congratulates her fellow dignitaries, and is looking forward to being able to celebrate her Irish heritage in the parade on March 7.
Victoria Kealy, a postdoctoral psychologist and soccer coach, is the 2026 Parade Queen.
Photo Courtesy NIAA
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Jomar Laundromat is a family run business that has been operating laundromats for over 25 years. We provide a clean, safe, and friendly laundromat for the community of the Nutley, and surrounding NJ areas. We have free parking in the rear of our facility. Come on down and utilize one of our services, self-service, and drop-off service.
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The dignitaries for the 2026 Nutley St. Patrick’s Day Parade, from left, NIAA President Deidre Hollywood, Grand Marshal Steve Blank, Deputy
Grand Marshal Noel Lenahan, Firefighter of the Year Brandon Griffitt, Member of the Year Katherine Bennett and Parade Queen Victoria Kealy.
Photo Courtesy NIAA
Firefighter of the Year ‘just likes helping people’
The Nutley Irish American Association has named Brandon Griffitt its 2026 Firefighter of the Year.
Griffitt traces his Irish heritage on his father’s side back to County Dublin.
Born and raised in Belleville, Griffitt moved to Nutley 13 years ago.
Griffitt attended Good Shepherd Academy in Nutley and graduated from Belleville High School. Griffitt continued his education at Rutgers University where he received a bachelor of science in finance.
Griffitt served his country for 12 years in the New Jersey Army National Guard. He found it to be a lot of fun to be a helicopter mechanic. He was also a crew chief and part of the flight crew on the Blackhawk.
Griffitt worked at Bank of America/Merrill Lynch after college as a financial planner. He holds a Series 7 and Series 63 certifications.
In order to have a better quality of life and spend more time with his family, Griffitt joined the Nutley Fire Department in 2021. Griffitt was part of the first group of professional firefighters to ride the ambulance in Nutley. He served that role for four years.
He is currently working as a shift firefighter on Tour 4. When asked what his favorite part of the job was, Griffitt will
respond with… “I just like helping people.”
Griffitt is married to Elisa, and together they have a daughter Quinn. They recently moved to Little Falls to prepare for the arrival of their son, Mac William, who will be joining the family in June. He is very excited to share his Irish traditions with his children.
Griffitt would like to thank the Nutley Irish for this honor, and is looking forward to marching with everyone in the parade on March 7. He can’t wait to be involved in the parade, rather than watching from the sidelines.
Brandon Griffitt
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Dinner and a show offered to seniors thanks to NHS students
Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci and the Department of Parks and Recreation have collaborated with the Nutley High School Culinary Program and Arts Program to present Nutley Senior Citizens with a special night out.
Senior residents can enjoy dinner prepared and served by the Nutley High School culinary classes along with a production of “Once Upon A Mattress” free of charge. This special evening will take place on Thursday March 5. Dinner will be served in the cafeteria of Nutley High School beginning at 4:30 p.m. with the show beginning at 6 p.m.
Reservations are required for dinner and are limited to the first 100 registered guests. All guests only going to the show may go directly to the NHS auditorium.
The Nutley High School Arts Program will be performing the musical, “Once Upon A Mattress,” a musical comedy that retells Hans Christian Andersen's fairy
tale, "The Princess and the Pea," focusing on the meddling Queen Aggravain, her shy son Prince Dauntless, and the swampdwelling girl who proves her royalty by feeling a tiny pea through 20 mattresses.
The show was originally launched by Carol Burnett in 1959. Known for witty lyrics, catchy tunes like “Shy” and themes of love and challenging norms, it's a staple for community and professional theatre.
“This is an inspiring approach to engaging our senior community in activities that will bring them happiness and keep them involved in community events while supporting the fine programs NHS has to offer,” Tucci said.
For further information please contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at 973-284-4966, between the hours of 8:30am to 4pm, Monday through Friday.
Pre-registration is required for participation. For more information, email publicrelations@nutleynj.org.
Sports, entertainment reporter featured on the Nutley podcast
The Inside Nutley Podcast, Number 41, is with Chris Wragge, who spent his childhood summers in Nutley.
The Emmy Award winning news journalist, sports reporter, entertainment reporter, and co-anchor for CBS News New York This Morning and CBS News New York At Noon.
Joining host Tom Greco, Wragge recalls his youth growing up in Nutley as well as the incredible career he refers to as “A Front Row to History,” which includes stories spanning his time as an anchor for Entertainment Tonight, his sportscasting career, and his news desk tenure, featuring anecdotes about working alongside prominent figures such as Shaquille O’Neal, Matt Damon, Derek Jeter, Sandra Bullock, Kurt Russell, Eli Manning, and Celine Dion.
Wragge also discusses his memories of covering events such as Newtown and the Joplin, Missouri tornado.
The Inside Nutley Podcast is also available on iTunes, Soundcloud and the Township of Nutley social media pages.
Nutley Chamber of Commerce to host 5K race plus fun run and walk event on May 3
The Nutley Chamber of Commerce will host its 26th Annual 5K Run & Walk Event on Sunday, May 3.
The event begins at the Nutley High School Park Oval with gates opening at 8 a.m., the Kids Short Sprint at 8:45 a.m., a Kids Fun Run at 8:55 a.m., and the 5K Run/Walk at 9:15 a.m.
Sponsorship of the chamber-produced event is exclusive to members. Non-members can sponsor and join the chamber for one year in one easy step with multiple sponsorship levels available to meet any budget, according to a press release from the chamber.
About 350 people participated in the event last year,
while families, friends and members of the community watched in the Park Oval and along the town-wide race route. Platinum, Gold and Silver Sponsors have the option of setting up a vendor table/booth to interact with attendees and give away promotional items, the release said. Go to https://nutleychamber.com/ for more details.
Photo Courtesy Nutley Twp. Chris Wragge
Nutley students on the Dean’s List at Quinnipiac
Elizabeth Desantis, Serena Genna, Gabriella Gigante and Ella Romonowski, all of Nutley, were named to the Dean's List for the Fall 2025 semester at Quinnipiac University.
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.
Crecco earns gold stars at The Citadel in Charleston
David Crecco, of Nutley, was recognized with gold stars at The Citadel in Charleston, S.C., for academic achievements during the fall 2025 semester. Gold stars are awarded to cadets and students at The Citadel who achieved a 3.7 grade point average or higher. Cadets and students who achieve gold star recognition are also placed on The Citadel's dean's list. Cadets may wear gold stars on their uniforms throughout the semester following their academic achievement. A gold star recognition certificate is awarded to non-cadet students who meet the requirements; veteran and active duty students are also awarded challenge coins.
Rivera on the Dean’s List at Wilkes University
Carina Rivera of Nutley was named to the Dean's List at Wilkes University in
Wilkes-Barre, PA., for the fall 2025 semester. To be named to the Dean's List, students must obtain a minimum 3.5 grade point average and carry at least 12 credits.
Nutley students on the Dean’s List at TCNJ
The following students from Nutley made the Dean’s List at The College of New Jersey: Rachel Echevarria, who is studying kinesiology and health sciences; Ava Eltzholtz, who is studying psych 3+2 CMHC; Gabriella Gustoso, who is studying music; Jacob Lomonaco,who is studying anthropology; Madison Netzke, who is studying speech-language pathology and audiology; Krisha Patel, who is studying nursing; Jenna Pomponio, who is studying biology; Ethan-Michael Ramos, who is studying music education; Alexa Serafino, who is studying nursing; Daniella Serafino, who is studying public health; Lola Thompson, who is studying kinesiology and health science; Rebecca Wechter, who is studying journalism and prof writing; Aleksandar Zonic, who is studying mathematics.
Burke on the Dean’s List at Salve Regina University
Ryann Rose Burke of Nutley was named to the Dean's List during the fall 2025 academic semester at Salve Regina University. To qualify for the Dean's List, students must earn a semester grade
point average of 3.6 for full-time students completing at least 12 graded credits, or a semester grade point average of 3.8 for part-time students completing at least six credits.
Gallo makes the Dean’s list at Monmouth Univ.
Nicholas Gallo, of Nutley, was named to the Dean’s List at Monmouth University for the Fall 2025 semester.
To be eligible for the list, students must fall within the top 20 percent of their major program by semester grade point average (GPA), have a cumulative GPA above 3.30, and completed all semester course work.
Ingles maks the Dean’s List at Champlain College
Jonathan Ingles, of Belleville, was named to the Champlain College Trustees' List for the Fall 2025 semester. Students on the Trustees' List have achieved a 4.0 grade point average for two or more consecutive semesters. Ingles is majoring in game design.
Rojas on the Dean’s List at St. Lawrence University
Gabriela Rojas from Belleville has been named to St. Lawrence University's Dean's List for achieving academic excellence during the Fall 2025 semester. Rojas is a member of the Class of 2026
and is majoring in philosophy and political science. Rojas attended Belleville High School. To be eligible for the Dean's List, a student must have completed at least four courses and have an academic average of 3.6 based on a 4.0 scale for the semester.
Nutley residents on the Dean’s List at Fairfield U.
Nutley residents Lauren Bowling, Sarah Gibney, Mary Rado, Riley Sebastiano and Mark Surretsky have earned Dean's List Honors for the Fall 2025 semester at Fairfield University.
In order to be placed on the Dean's List, students must have completed a minimum of 12 credit hours in a semester, have no outstanding or incomplete grades for that semester, and have attained a semester grade point average of 3.50 or better.
Labib makes Honors List
Monica Labib, of Nutley, was named to the Fall 2025 Presidential Honor List at New York Institute of Technology in Old Westbury, N.Y.
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IN MEMORIAM
• ALBANESE – Stella, of Boonton, formerly of Nutley and North Caldwell; Jan. 29. Mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 95.
• BELLUCCI – Angelo, of Nutley, formerly of San Cosmo Albanese, Cosenza, Italy, Jan. 8. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, 85.
• BONGO – Rosaria, of Princeton, formerly of Belleville and Easton, Pa.; Jan. 14. Aide at School No. 7 in Belleville. Mother, grandmother, 98.
• BOVE – Dolores, of Belleville; Jan. 20. Receptionist, buying department employee for Tappin Inc. Mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, 91.
• BRITTON – Scott Daniel, of Nutley; Jan. 31. Business owner. Brother, uncle, 67.
• BURNS-DOTOLI – Irene T., of Nutley; Jan. 20. Medical billing professional. Wife, mother, stepmother, sister, grandmother, aunt, grandaunt, 69.
• CAPOSSO – Rocco A., of Belleville; Jan. 27. Belleville Board of Education head custodian for school No. 4. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, 72.
• CARRERA – Cynthia, of Totowa, formerly of Belleville; Jan. 26. Retired credit collections manager. Widow, mother, grandmother, 79.
• CASTELLI – Gelsomina “Jessie” R., of Belleville; Jan. 29. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 86.
• CHRISTIANO – Benedetto “Ben” Sr., of Bloomfield, formerly of Belleville; Jan. 28. Senior CAD designer. Widower, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, 90.
• COWAN – John R., of Nutley; Jan. 23. Veteran, electrical engineer. Had a distinguished career at ITT. Husband, father, grandfather, 92.
• COX – Kenneth C., of Belleville; Jan. 16. Maintenance mechanic for PSE&G. Husband, brother, uncle, 69.
• CURRID – Allen S., of Belleville; Jan. 11. Brother, 69.
• D’ANGELO – Giovanni, of Nutley, formerly of Jersey City; Jan. 23. Machinist, Board of Education member. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, 84.
• DEGISI – Joann, of Belleville; Jan. 18. Waitress. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, 82.
• DRANEY – George R., of Nutley; Jan. 23. Award-winning freelance photographer. Brother, uncle, 76.
• DYER – Lauren M., of Lakewood, formerly of Nutley; Jan. 4. Office manager with Glitterex Corp. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, 69.
• ECKERT – Patricia Ann, of Nutley, formerly of Harrison and Garfield; Jan. 25.
Lyndhurst math teacher. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, 84.
• ESQUILLO – Erlinda D., of Belleville, formerly of Philippines; Jan. 29. Medical technologist. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, 89.
• FURRULE – Gerard V., of Nutley, formerly of Newark; Feb. 5. Chemical operator for Craig Adhesives & Coatings. Husband, father, brother, 72.
• GIGLIO – Angelina, of Bloomfield, formerly of Belleville; Jan. 26. Volunteered at Kessler Institute. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 92.
• GINTELLA – Dennis A., of Belleville; Jan. 15. Retired Army veteran. Foreman with the PVSC. Husband, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, cousin, 78.
• GIORDANO – Jacqueline Diane, of Toms River, formerly of Belleville; Dec. 20. Master seamstress. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 83.
• HAHN – Barbara Helen, of Belleville; Jan. 5. Medical records class. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 90.
• HERTLING – Hannah F., of Belleville; Feb. 2. Bookkeeper and office manager for OHL’s Brands. Widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 95.
• ILARIA – Antoinette Jean, of Nutley, formerly of Bloomfield; Jan. 27. Waitress. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, 82.
• IOVINO – Kathleen De Rosa, of Nutley; Jan. 25. Hairdresser at Focus on Hair and Lucio’s before retiring. Mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, 81.
• LLAMERA – Nelson M., of Nutley; Feb. 1. Was 66.
• LORENZO – Barbara Ann, formerly of Nutley; Jan. 18. Dental assistant and secretary. Devoted Catholic. Aunt, 76.
• LULAND – John C., of Nutley, formerly of Newark; Jan. 18. Worked at Home Depot in Clifton. Vocalist and musician. Husband, brother, uncle, 63.
• MARCHESE – Vincent J., of Nutley, formerly of Belleville; Dec. 16. Wholesale representative. Husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, 97.
• MASCERA – Magdalen, of Nutley; Jan. 2. Factory worker with Maumsol Ceramic Co., Belleville, house cleaner. Sister, aunt, 95.
• MENDOZA – Noemi P., of Belleville; Feb. 4. Registered nurse for Mountainside Hospital. Aunt, grandaunt, 79.
• NGUYEN – Phan “Anna” Thi, of Belleville, formerly of Vietnam and Newark; Jan. 21. Shopkeeper. Widow, mother, grandmother, 80.
IN MEMORIAM
• PALMIERI – Josephine, of Nutley; Jan. 27. Teacher at Belleville School No. 8. Wife, mother, sister, 64.
• RAIMONDO – Karla, of Nutley; Jan. 9. English as a Second Language teacher. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, 66.
• ROEMER – Patricia C., of Nutley, formerly of New Providence; Jan. 3. Office manager in the medical field. Wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, 81.
• RYAN – Thomas J., of Nutley; Jan. 9. Computer programmer from Okonite. Ramsey. Husband, father, brother, 80.
• SAVOIA – Joseph A., of Nutley; Jan. 6. U.S. Army veteran. U.S. Postal Service mail handler. Husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, 88.
• SERIO – Catherine, of Nutley, formerly of Newark; Feb. 10. English teacher. Wife, mother, grandmother, 66.
• SLATER – Violet Louise, of Nutley; Feb. 9. Retired from quality control at Hoffman La Roche. Mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, 91.
• TATTOLI – Judith Mae, of Lords Valley, Pa., formerly of Belleville, Nutley; Jan. 30. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, 85.
• URCIUOLI – Elvira Cifelli, of Vero Beach, Fla., formerly of Nutley; Jan. 31. Wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, 86.
• VENEZIANO – Joseph “Joe Vee,” of Toms River, formerly of Belleville; Feb. 1. Carpenter. Widower, uncle, granduncle, great-granduncle, 78.
• VITIELLO – John S. III, of Belleville; Jan. 7. Carpenter, supervisor of the Carpentry Shop, Montclair State University. Brother, uncle, granduncle, 72.
• WATSON – Helen, of Nutley; Feb. 1. Bookkeeper at R.K. Hughes Co. Devout Roman Catholic. Widow, mother, sister, grandmother, 90.
• ZARRA – Nancy Lynn Mocarski, of Concord, Calif., formerly of Belleville and Novato, Calif.; Jan. 24. Orthopedic surgical nurse, mother, grandmother, 72.
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.
SPORTS
NHS boys wrestling team pinning down strong season
The Nutley High School boys wrestling team, under veteran head coach Mike DiPiano Jr., has enjoyed a great season this winter.
The Raiders boasted a 23-6 record after going 1-1 in the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association’s North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 state tournament on Feb. 16. The third-seeded Raiders defeated No. 6 seed Passaic Valley 42-27 in the quarterfinals before losing to host and No 2 seed West Essex 34-30 in the semifinals later that night.
Leading the Raiders are senior 144pound Christopher Cifelli, who won his 100th career match earlier this season, and junior 157-pound Aidan Rotbaum.
Other strong wrestlers for NHS are junior 175 Antonio Maiden, junior 285pound heavyweight Nolan Brewer, senior 138-pound Patrick Chell, junior 106pound Valne DeLaney, sophomore 120pound Evan Blanchard, senior 215-pound Sean Vilchez and freshman 113-pound Luke Finkelstein.
NHS will host the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association’s District 10 state tournament. The top three wrestlers in each weight class will advance to the Region 3 tournament at West Orange High School, March 6-7. The top four finishers in each weight class at the regions will advance to the NJSIAA state individual championships at Atlantic City, March 12-14.
Hockey players dazzle, eclipse 200 career points
Nutley/Columbia/Bloomfield high school ice hockey players
Christian Sherman and Angelo “AJ” Albanese achieved their 200th career points in the same game.
Sherman and Albaneese, both seniors, each had a goal and two assists to propel the Nutley/Columbia/Bloomfield to a 4-2 win over Glen Rock on Jan. 28 at Richard J. Codey Arena in West Orange.
Sherman, of Columbia, scored two goals to give him 100 for his career in the 5-4 win over River Dell on Feb. 13.
Through Feb. 13, Albanese, of Nutley, had 25 goals and 27 assists this season, and had 90 goals and 120 assists for 210 points for his career, while Sherman had 33 goals and 33 goals this season, and 100 goals and 113 assists for 213 points for his
At left, Nutley senior Angelo ‘AJ’ Albanese has enjoyed a profiic ice hockey career, eclipsing 200 career points.
NHS boys basketball has winning year
The Nutley High School boys basketball team is enjoying one of its best seasons.
The Raiders, under head coach Rob Porrino, sported a 17-8 record through Feb. 17. The 17 wins are the most for the Raiders in recent history.
Nutley hoped to make a good run in the postseason. The Raiders, seeded 14th, were scheduled to visit No. 3 seed Millburn in the first round of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association’s North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 state tournament on Feb. 25 after press time. Ater starting 4-3, the Raiders won nine of their next 10 games to go to 13-4.
career. N/C/B head coach Dave Macri expressed how it’s a joy to coach and watch them play.
“The talent and skill level is just through the roof on these guys,” Macri said. “They are a driving force and they rarely come off the ice as a result of it. They have really been our rainmakers. Christian is just one of those kids that quietly does the work, does it well and just produces. No matter what, he just powers through. AJ (Albanese) is the same. These guys are just all business on the ice. They are a pleasure to coach and, quite honestly, they are fun to watch. You got to put your coach’s face on, but as a fan of hockey, they are just fun to watch. Their creativity is through the roof.”
NHS boys bowling rolls to final
The top-seeded Nutley High School boys bowling team defeated Mount Olive and Scotch Plains–Fanwood by 2-0 scores to advance to the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association’s North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 state tournament championship. NHS defeated No. 8 seed Mount Olive in the quarterfinals on Feb. 12.
The following are the NHS scores: sophomore Gavin Gerniglia-Rapavi: 149; senior Patrick Markey: 158, 221 (379 series); senior Kaiden Cerniglia-Rapavi: 222, 196 (418); sophomore Benjamin Johnson: 215, 177 (392); junior Jackson Veneziano: 231, 215 (446); and freshman Jacob Capalaran: 193.
NHS defeated Scotch Plains–Fanwood in the semifinals on Feb. 18. The following are the NHS top scorers: Veneziano: 268, 234 (502); Capalaran (216); Kaiden Cerniglia-Rapavi: 193, 203 (396); Markey: 155, 221 (376); Gavin Cerniglia-Rapavi: 144; and Johnson: 181, 204 (385).
Nutley was scheduled to face No. 2 seed Chatham in the final on Feb. 21 after press time.
Photo Courtesy of Nutley High School Wrestling
Nutley High School senior Christopher Cifelli won his 100th career match this season.
Izzy Timonera
Nutley Journal Athlete of the Month
Nutley High School girls wrestler Izzy Timonera etched her name in NHS athletic history.
Timonera, a senior, became the program’s all-time winningest wrestler. She achieved the milestone when she pinned her younger sister, Janizza, in the Essex County Tournament final in the 100pound division in January at Richard J. Codey Arena, giving her 81 career wins. It marked her third ECT title.
Izzy is the Nutley Journal Athlete of the Month.
The following is a Q&A with Izzy.
Q: What attracted you to the sport of wrestling?
A: I was drawn to wrestling because it’s one of the most challenging sports, mentally and physically. I like that it’s just me and my opponent, and my effort and discipline determine the outcome.
Q: What are your favorite memories during your wrestling career at Nutley High School?
A: My favorite memories of my wrestling career are the team wins and the support we give each other at tournaments. The bonds that I have made with my teammates and coaches are something I'll always remember.
Q: Do you have any pre-match rituals and how do you prepare yourself for a match?
A: Before my match, I like to listen to music, stretch and pray to God for guidance. I mentally remind myself of my training and go in confident and ready to compete.
Q: Who are your role models and why?
A: My role models are my parents and my siblings because they push me to be better everyday. I look up to my parents. They proved to me that hard work and discipline pay off. They've always been my No. 1 supporters and inspire me to chase what God puts in my heart.
Q: What kind of music do you like to listen to? Do you have a favorite musical artist?
A: I like listening to hype and rap music before my matches because it gets me energized and focused. It helps me stay locked in and motivated.
Q: Do you have any favorite TV shows or movies?
A: I enjoy watching comedy movies and inspiring movies. Anything with a funny cast or competitive storyline usually grabs my attention.
Q: What is your favorite class subject at Nutley HS?
A: My favorite class subjects at Nutley High School are entrepreneurship and marketing. I’ve always been engaged with the financial field and I love that I get challenged while getting to be creative.
Q: Do you partake in any hobbies or
enjoyed a dominant career, becoming the all-time winningest female wrestler in school history.
extracurricular activities, besides wrestling?
A: Outside of wrestling I enjoy staying active, spending time with friends, and doing things that help me relax and reset mentally.
Q: If you can go anywhere on vacation, where would it be?
A: I’d love to travel to the Dominican Republic again. It's very warm and relaxing, I love the beaches there. It’s a place where I can unwind and explore a new culture.
Q: What advice would you give to a female who wants to take up the sport of wrestling?
A: Don't be afraid to try it! It helped me navigate through many parts in my life because of the perseverance I gained just by playing the sport. Wrestling builds confidence, strength and resilience. Believe in yourself and keep pushing forward.
March 8-14, 2026
Girl Scout Week, the week of Girl Scouts’ birthday on March 12, is a great time to celebrate with faith communities to share about Girl Scouts and its benefits, thank faith partners for their support and give girls the opportunity to be recognized in their places of worship.
Building girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.
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Photo Courtesy of izzy Timonera Nutley senior Izzy Timonera has
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