ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — On May 9, residents from across Essex County joined elected officials at Norman Samuels Plaza in Newark for a rally in support of the codification of protection for abortion rights.
The rally came just a couple of days ahead of a scheduled Senate vote on May 11 to advance legislation that would codify into federal law the right to an abortion; the vote failed. Last week, a draft majority opinion from the Supreme Court was leaked; it indicated that the Supreme Court is poised to overturn the landmark 1973 decision Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion nationwide.
In addition to concerned community members, the rally was attended by New Jersey Sens. Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, New Jersey Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz and Assemblywoman Britnee Timberlake. Holding aloft signs at the rally were students from Rutgers University, representatives from Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan New Jersey, the American Civil Liberties of New Jersey and Garden State Equality.
“Let us be abundantly and unapologetically clear. Roe v. Wade is the law of the land. It is well-established precedent,” Menendez said at the rally. “And if you’re the Supreme Court of the United States, the institution entrusted by the Constitution to interpret laws and rights for every person in this nation, you cannot strike down 49 years of precedent on a whim. Supreme Court justices cannot draft a majority opinion, one that is filled with flawed justifications and racist and sexist assertions, and consider the matter settled. And they most certainly cannot strip the fundamental rights of half the American population without a fight.”
“For decades, Republicans in state legislatures and Congress have proposed draconian abortion bans that seek to control, criminalize and dehumanize Americans’ most personal health decisions,” Booker said at the rally. “With last week’s draft Supreme Court ruling, we are at a decisive moment in the fight to protect abortion rights. At today’s rally, I was proud to join with fellow New Jersey elected officials, activists and students to call for the codification of Roe v. Wade into law so that a fundamental right of Americans is protected from ongoing, coordinated attacks.”
Payne urged the Senate to pass the Women’s Health Protection Act and to abolish the filibuster.
“This absolute tragedy is the direct result of the continued radicalism of the Republican Party and its turn to the far right,” Payne said at the rally. “Now, women across the country are in jeopardy of falling backwards to a dark past when access to a safe abortion procedure was difficult or impossible. I have always been a proud supporter of a woman’s right to choose because I know that we must trust women to make their own health care decisions rather than dictating to them. There is a solution to this urgent problem that must happen now. … The American people are watching, and they are counting on us to act. We must not let them down.”
“As the conservative activist judges of the Supreme Court move to strike down half a century of legal precedent, it is Congress’ responsibility to protect women’s autonomy. I proudly voted to pass the Women’s Health Protection Act in the House last September to ensure women have access to reproductive care without undue restrictions. We rallied here today to call on the Senate to do the same,” Sherrill said at the rally. “Congress works for the people, and the vast majority of Americans know and believe in this constitutional right.”
Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan New Jersey President and CEO Roslyn Rogers Collins reminded attendees that, although abortion will remain legal in New Jersey, advocates need to fight for women in other states where they might lose their rights.
“We are at a crisis moment for abortion access in this country,” Collins said at the rally. “Today, what seemed to many as almost impossible is almost our reality. But, to be clear: Abortion is still legal in New Jersey and we intend to keep it that way. We must turn outrage into action. … We are furious, and we will fight back.”
For ACLU-NJ advocate Alejandra Sorto, abortion rights are human rights.
“Reproductive freedom is a fundamental human right. Attacks seeking to restrict reproductive health care are rooted in systemic inequities that continue to have a disproportionate impact on black and brown people. In this moment, when abortion rights are under threat nationwide, it’s as important as ever that states take the lead in ensuring that this right is not only protected, but accessible to all regardless of race, gender identity, income level or immigration status,” Sorto said at the rally.
“This moment indicates the end of a federal constitutional right to abortion and signals a radical erosion of much constitutional support underlying the rights many of us enjoy. We must be a strong united front, because this is a battle for our collective lives and freedoms,” said D Belinfanti of Garden State Equality at the rally. “Power is not based on the strength of one but the strength of many. Justice is achieved through the resilience of many who’ve been disenfranchised. Our strength is in creating an equitable society. We must stand strong and united.”
“As an OBGYN, abortion provider and woman, I am incredibly worried about what the future for reproductive health care will look like now after the June SCOTUS ruling. This is not a drill — Roe (v. Wade) is on the brink of being overturned. Regardless of where you live, this ruling impacts all women and people who can become pregnant,” obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Kristyn Brandi, a family planning specialist, said at the rally. “It impacts all reproductive health providers, whose clinical spaces either may be shut down or overrun with people seeking care from other states. No matter what the courts decide: Abortion is safe, normal, essential health care. As a physician, it is my priority to ensure that patients can get the timely, compassionate care that they need and deserve — and that will always include abortion care.”
In addition to the rally, many local officials have released statements decrying SCOTUS’ leaked opinion draft and have called for area residents to remain strong advocates for abortion rights.
“On behalf of the Essex County Board of Commissioners, I am compelled to express our collective dismay regarding the reports of the Supreme Court’s impending decision to overturn Roe v. Wade,” Commissioner President Wayne L. Richardson said in a May 4 statement. “We believe the removal of federal protections with respect to reproductive rights is a mistake. Any health decisions women choose to make with respect to reproductive rights should not be usurped by policies that infringe upon the privacy of women and their doctors.
“If the reports are true, and the Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, we pledge to our constituents that our board as constituted will continue to support a woman’s right to choose,” he concluded.
Ruiz described the situation as a “nightmare” that will have far-reaching consequences.
“I went to bed early and woke up in the middle of the night to the news that we could be facing a nightmare. In New Jersey, we prepared for the possibility that Roe v. Wade would be overturned. I am grateful that (state) Sen. Loretta Weinberg championed a bill that I co-sponsored that protects a woman’s right to choose in New Jersey,” Ruiz said in a May 3 statement. “But this isn’t just about us. This is about every woman in America and the future of our daughters. This pending U.S. Supreme Court decision is a step backward on our reproductive freedoms.”
Though she is dismayed to hear that Roe v. Wade may be overturned, Assemblywoman Mila Jasey spoke glowingly of the steps New Jersey has taken to protect women’s reproductive rights.
“It is devastating to see the Supreme Court headed in this direction. Thankfully, here in New Jersey, we took a preemptive step to codify women’s reproductive health rights into state law with the signing of the Freedom of Reproductive Choice Act earlier this year. Regardless of what happens at the federal level, New Jersey will remain a place where all women are able to exercise their reproductive rights and make important and highly personal family planning decisions freely,” Jasey said in a May 3 statement. “I am proud to have sponsored legislation that protects the freedom of choice and access to contraceptives for women in New Jersey, but the fact that we are still having this conversation in 2022 is an affront to all women. A woman’s right to make personal health choices should be nonnegotiable. The Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade (approximately) 50 years ago ensured that for all women. The thought that women throughout the country will lose a fundamental right under this new opinion is catastrophic.”
Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka said he was “appalled” by the leaked draft opinion.
“Abortions should be a universal right of all women, regardless of politics or what state they live in, which is why Roe v. Wade should be upheld by the court,” Baraka said in a May 6 statement. “Unwanted and unintended pregnancies can potentially result in an increase in women delaying prenatal care, higher risk of medical complications for mom and baby, mental health issues — often long-term — including postpartum depression. This is harmful as it can lead to the criminalization of those who are marginalized and target those that have less access to financial resources who may seek out abortions in other ways, such as through ‘back alley’ abortions.”
Baraka pointed out that the United States has the highest maternal mortality rate of any developed country and that making abortion illegal or more inaccessible will only increase that rate, especially for black and brown women.
“We are living in a dangerous time, and we must all stand up and do what is right. If Roe v. Wade is overturned, nearly two dozen states are likely to ban abortions or severely restrict access. Thirteen have ‘trigger laws’ that would ban abortion almost immediately,” Baraka said. “Almost 50 years later, this extreme grasp for power over the bodies and lives of women is repulsive. While Chief Justice John Roberts confirmed the authenticity of the draft, we will have to wait for the final opinion. Right now, we must fight and not take the pressure off the Supreme Court to do what is right. We must act at the federal and state levels to protect the rights of all women.”
Like Baraka, East Orange Mayor Ted R. Green said he was “deeply disturbed by the potential overturning of the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling.”
“Reproductive choice is a fundamental human right, and we can never take it for granted. Within the United States, the maternal mortality rate is significantly higher than other developing countries, with people of color and marginalized groups being negatively impacted at a disproportionate rate,” Green said in a May 9 statement. “Women who are denied abortions face a significantly high risk of pregnancy-related issues. Those risks of unintended, forced pregnancies extend far beyond the delivery of a child and include poor physical, psychological and financial outcomes. As a result, it is believed that imposing legal restrictions on abortion will not lead to fewer abortions but will likely lead to the increase in harm due to the use of unsafe or self-managed practices to accomplish the same end. This is why we believe that all women should have the latitude to make independent decisions about their bodies and care. We also believe that we have an obligation to ensure that we establish and maintain protective policies that support choice.”
Photos of May 9 rally courtesy of Bob Menendez and Planned Parenthood of Metro NJ
State Assemblywoman Shama Haider, D-Bergen, is pictured in the halls of the New Jersey Statehouse in Trenton.Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
Forty years ago, Shama Haider didn’t expect to have the job she does now.
An immigrant of Pakistan, Haider recalls how hers was one of the few non-white families in town as she raised her kids in Tenafly in the early 1980s. She remembers joining the local parent-teachers association to make sure her children “didn’t feel like outsiders.”
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ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — An inmate at the Essex County Correctional Facility in Newark died after being transported to a hospital on Sunday, authorities said.
According to Essex County officials, the 66-year-old inmate was experiencing “medical distress” that morning and was taken to University Hospital, where he passed away.
Following procedures established by the Attorney General’s Office, the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office and the ECCF Internal Affairs Unit are investigating, although no foul play is suspected, officials said.
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Marie Sirianni, age 90, entered into Eternal Life on Thursday, May 12, 2022 surrounded by her sons. On November 29, 1931, Marie was born in Manhattan and grew up in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. Marie graduated from Fort Hamilton High School and Business School in 1949. She worked for GMAC, 57th Street, New York. In 1953, Marie married the love of her life, Anthony “Tut” Sirianni and began her life in Long Branch. Together, Marie and Tut owned and operated Sirianni’s Friendly Café on Brighton Avenue in the West End section of Long Branch. Along with raising her family and her involvement in the family business, Marie was involved in various civic and religious organizations. These organizations included the Columbietta, of Council 355, the PTA of Holy Trinity School, the New Jersey License Beverage Association, the Saint Peter Apostle Society, the Older & Wiser Club of Saint Michael Parish, the Rosary and Altar Society of Christ the King Parish, The Holy Trinity Senior Citizen Club, the Long Branch Senior Citizen Club, and she volunteered at the Long Branch Senior Center.
Marie was predeceased by her daughter, Mary, her parents, Michael and Madeline DeNapoli, and her husband, Tut Sirianni. Marie is survived by her 4 sons, Msgr. Sam Sirianni, Freehold Township, Michael Sirianni, Long Branch, the Rev. Anthony Sirianni, Edison, and Joseph and his wife, Ann Marie (Sleavin) Sirianni, Elberon; her brother, Joseph DeNapoli, and his wife, Bianca, and her 3 wonderful grandchildren; Andrea Bastone and her husband, Vincenzo, Alexandra Ranieri and her husband, Domenic, and Michael Sirianni, as well as the joy of her later years, her great-grandchildren; Audrey and Domenic Ranieri and Christian Bastone. Marie also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins to cherish her memory and share the stories of her love and life.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 19 from 3-7 pm at the Damiano Funeral Home, 191 Franklin Avenue in Long Branch. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, May 20 at 11 am at Star of the Sea Church of Christ the King Parish in Long Branch. Interment will follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in West Long Branch. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to VNA Health Group, 23 Main Street, Suite D1, Holmdel NJ 07733 or St. Helena’s Catholic School, 930 Grove Avenue, Edison, NJ 08820. The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link above.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marie A. Sirianni, please visit our floral store.
Elizabeth (Betty Lou) Ludlow-Jacoby, age 92 of Long Branch, passed away peacefully at home on May 10, 2022. Betty Lou was born in Red Bank and lived there until 1961 when she married Henry and moved to Long Branch. She was a graduate of Red Bank High School class of 1948.
During her life, she was employed by Prudential Insurance Co. in Newark, Frank Antonides School in West Long Branch, The ARC of Monmouth County and Homestead Pharmacy in Long Branch. She was a lifelong member of The First Baptist Church of Red Bank. She enjoyed volunteering at the First Baptist Church of Red Bank and The ARC of Monmouth County before she became the Manager of The Monarc Thrift Shop in Long Branch.
Betty Lou was an avid antique collector and enjoyed frequenting the Red Bank Antique Center as well as stopping at garage, estate & church sales. She enjoyed league bowling and participated in county and state tournaments until her late 80s.
She was predeceased by her parents Mary Elizabeth & John F Green, her brother Edward H Green and her husband’s Henry F Ludlow and Arthur F Jacoby. She is survived by her 2 daughters Alicia Ludlow of Long Branch and Denise Ludlow-Saxon and husband Eric of Wayne and 3 grandchildren Thomas, Daniel & Joanna.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, May 22, 2022 at 2:00 pm at the First Baptist Church of Red Bank. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to the First Baptist Church of Red Bank either by mail 84 Maple Avenue Red Bank, NJ 07701 or www.fbcredbank.com. The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link above.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Elizabeth Ludlow-Jacoby, please visit our floral store.
Margaret (Peggy) Ann Reu (nee Donohue) 87, Oakhurst, died peacefully at home on Monday, May 9th surrounded by her children.
She was born in Newark, NJ on August 31, 1934, to the late Thomas and Ruth (Moss) Donohue. Peggy married William C. Reu on October 2, 1954 and moved to the Jersey Shore. Peggy was a communicant of St. Michaels Church in West End. She was also a member of the Oakhurst Fire Co. Ladies Auxiliary and an office manager at Eyes First Vision Center in Sea Girt. After suffering a stroke in 2003, Peggy did not let her disabilities get the best of her, and she lived her life to the fullest possible extent. She was a strong determined woman who did things on her own terms.
She was predeceased by her devoted husband William C. Reu and her brother Mark Donohue. Surviving are her daughter Patricia A. Reu and son and wife Thomas C. And Catherine E. Reu; her grandchildren: Scott and wife Fallon, Shawn and wife Morgan, Stephen and fiancée Sydney Samuel and Spencer; 1 great grandchild, Quinn, and well as her beloved grandpup Mac.
Visitation will be Monday, May 16th, from 3 pm until the time of the service at 6:30 pm at the Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home, 10 Morrell St, Long Branch. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Visiting Nurse Association Health Group Hospice, 23 Main St Holmdel NJ, 07733, would be appreciated.
Patricia (Riley) Faillaci passed away on Sunday, May 8th at Jersey Shore Medical Center. Born in Long Branch on January 8th, 1944, Patricia was a lifelong resident of the area, moving to the Wanamassa section of Ocean Township in 1974.
Patricia was a proud graduate of Long Branch High School Class of 1962 and William Paterson University, where she earned her Degree in Education and English. Following graduation, Patricia accepted a job teaching for the Ocean Township Board of Education, where she would spend her entire 34 year career as a Middle School Teacher at the Ocean Intermediate School.
Patricia was an avid reader, a passion she shared with her father. She would always have a book she was in the process of finishing. She could be found in the summer at the North Bath Avenue Beach reading an Agatha Christie or any other mystery novel. Patricia also looked forward to her monthly Atlantic City trips with her husband. From the Claridge, to Ballys, and, finally, the Golden Nugget, Patricia could be found at a variety of slot machines. There was never a time where Patricia went to AC where she did not return with some story of hitting a jackpot right on her way out for the day. Patricia was also known for her signature dish in the kitchen. For every holiday and family gathering, you could count on “Aunt Pat” bringing her deviled eggs, in her trademark Waterford Crystal dish.
Patricia was predeceased by her parents John and Theresa Riley; her father and mother-in-law Sam and Anne Faillaci; her sister-in-law Marilyn Riley; and her brother-in-law Carmen Faillaci.
She is survived by her husband of 54 years Thomas Faillaci; her brothers and sister-in-law John and Debra Riley, and Frank Riley; her nieces and nephews Alexandra Riley, Victoria and Ryan Allison, Frank and Allison Riley, and her nephew and Godson Chris Riley. She is also survived by her great niece and nephew who she spoiled from the day they were both born, Samantha and Frankie Riley.
In accordance with Patricia’s wishes there will be no public funeral services. She will be interred at Mt. Carmel Cemetery, West Long Branch. In lieu of traditional remembrances, donations to the Wanamassa First Aid Squad by visiting; www.wanamassafirstaid.org/donate.html.
To share a favorite memory or send a message of condolence please visit Patricia’s page of tributes at www.woolleyboglioli.com.
Mildred Evelyn Price, 104 of Long Branch, passed away peacefully at home on Monday April 11, 2022. Mildred was born October 14, 1917 in Saint Ann, Trinidad and Tobago to her beloved parents Christopher and Lila Critchlow.
Educated in Trinidad, Mildred went on to become a seamstress for 40 years. Mildred owned and operated a little shop in the central market in Trinidad. She also lived in Texas and worked as a nanny, nurses aide and kitchen helper in local restaurants. She visited Harlem, NY before coming to New Jersey in 1982. She continued working as a nurses aide into her 70’s retiring in 1990.
Mildred also was a woman of faith. She was a faithful member of St. John Baptist Church in Trinidad where she sung in the choir before moving to St. Croix, West Indies in 1976. She met and married James Alfred Price. They were married for 52 years and to their union they had 14 children.
Mildred had a modest life and loved her family endlessly. She was a world traveler, traveling to Belgium and cruising around the Caribbean with her granddaughter.
She leaves to cherish her memory a devoted daughter Heather Price and a host of family and friends.
Sleep mama you deserve your rest.
Yvonne Lynette Jackson was born on May 15, 1940 in Manhattan to Lolita and John Jackson on May 15, 1940, and departed her earthly life on May 5, 2022, in Neptune, NJ.
Yvonne moved with her mother at the age of five to Long Branch where she attended public schools graduating from Long Branch High School in 1958. She graduated from Brookdale Community College with an Associate Degree in Business Management and went on to receive a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Monmouth University.
In 1958 Yvonne married Wilbert Russell. Out of their union of 23 years, they had 3 children (Steven, and twins Todd and Tanya). In 2007 she married her husband of 15 years, Robert Mann and they lived in Ocean Township, NJ. She then became a close stepmother to Jordan and Cheryl Mann.
In 1962, Yvonne began her career with the Federal Government at Fort Monmouth as a Computer Programmer and advanced through her computer career to retire after 35 years as a Systems Analyst.
Yvonne was a dedicated community servant. Over the years she served her community in many organizations including The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Club, The MLK Guild of Long Branch, the Ocean Chapter of The National Drifters Inc. and The Links Inc. She also served for many years as a Commissioner for the Long Branch Housing Authority.
Yvonne loved the Lord. She was a dedicated lifelong member and volunteered at St. James Episcopal Church in Long Branch, NJ.
Yvonne was predeceased by her parents Lolita and John Jackson, her son Steven Russell and former husband Wilbert Russell.
She leaves to cherish her memory husband Bob; son Todd Russell (Terry); daughter Tanya Russell- Brown (Douglas); stepdaughters Jordan and Cheryl (Greg) Mann; grandsons Doug Brown Jr. and TJ Russell; granddaughters Briana Brown and Ciara and Celena Russell as well as a host of other relatives and many, many dear friends.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Ocean Chapter of Drifters Inc., P.O. Box 2125, Ocean, NJ 07712
Guido Gomez Roque Sr., 93 of Long Branch, NJ passed away on Friday, April 29, 2022. Guido was born September 27, 1928 in Havana, Cuba and relocated to Long Branch in 1959.
Guido was a Mason by trade and operated his business for many years before retiring. He was a great family man and provider who will truly be missed.
He is predeceased by his beloved wife of 55 years, Maria C. Roque in 2006.
He leaves to cherish his memory 4 sons Arturo Roque Sr., Anselmo Roque Sr., Guido Roque Jr. and Jim Roque; grandchildren Arturo Jr., Yarita (Star), Darnell Guido III, Ayaz, Anselmo Jr. (AJ) and Erica as well as a host of nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren and friends.
Barbara J. Ahlers, 85, a longtime Eatontown resident, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2022. Barbara was born in Neptune to Harold and Jeannette (Otis) Wagner and grew up in Asbury Park. She was a graduate of Asbury Park High School, Class of 1954.
Barbara was a communicant of St. Dorothea’s RC Church in Eatontown. Prior to retirement she was the Director at the Retired Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP) in Long Branch.
Barbara and her husband George enjoyed traveling and spending time with their grandchildren.
Barbara was predeceased by her parents, sisters; Nancy Heinrich, Irene Wagner and brothers; Harold and George Wagner and in 2014 by her beloved husband of 57 years, George H. Ahlers Sr.
She is survived by her devoted children, George Jr. and his wife Wendy of Factoryville, PA and Susan Halleran and her husband Michael of Eatontown, grandchildren; Sean, Kevin and Heather Halleran and Amy Ahlers and niece, Barbara Heinrich of Wanamassa.
She is buried at Woodbine Cemetery in Oceanport.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations be made in Barbara and George’s name to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Northern NJ Chapter, 14 Commerce Dr., Suite 301, Cranford, NJ 07016
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.braunfuneralhome.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara J Ahlers, please visit our floral store.
Anna Walsh, 83, a 57 year Eatontown resident, passed away on April 13, 2022 at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch. Anna was born in Melun, France to Casimir and Marija (Kirinic) Suton.
She received primary and secondary education in Le Chatelet-en-Brie and Melun, France.
Anna loved movies, cats and her garden.
Anna was a longtime communicant of St. Dorothea’s RC Church in Eatontown. She worked as a nanny for several families in France Most recently Anna was employed as a printer operator at Win Cup Manufacturing in Tinton Falls, retiring after 27 years of service..
She is predeceased by her parents and brother Jean Suton.
Anna is survived by Eugene D. Walsh, her beloved husband of 59 years, her brother, Stephan Suton, sisters-in law Albini and Milka her niece, Sandra and nephew, Richard along with other nieces and nephews in She s also survived by her sisters-in-law, Jacqueline Lucke_and Patricia Polster_of Peckville and Clarks Summit PA.
Private services were held followed by entombment at Woodbine Cemetery in Oceanport. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.Braunfuneralhome.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Anna Walsh, please visit our floral store.
Bruce Hagerman of Ocean, was a life-long resident of Asbury Park Jersey Shore. He was born in Orange, New Jersey and died of colon cancer on May 13, 2022 at Monmouth Medical Center.
Bruce, a 1961 graduate of Asbury Park High School, started his engineering career at EAI in West Long Branch and then “moved across the street” to Interdata/Perkin-Elmer. Some of the equipment that Bruce worked on for EAI was on display at the Kennedy Space Center. He later worked for AT&T’s Consumer Products in Holmdel where he designed hardware and wrote software simulations for what a piece of hardware potentially could or should do. It was in Consumer Products that he helped design, manufacture, and test the first and second generation cordless telephones. Bruce retired from Tyco’s Submarine Systems in Eatontown where he worked on simulations for undersea cable equipment.
Bruce was an active person who enjoyed playing softball, bowling, shooting pool, downhill skiing, running, and going to the gym; but, his life-long love was salt and fresh water fishing. He fished the Atlantic, the Pacific, the Gulf, the Great Lakes, the Rio Grande, and many lakes, streams, and reservoirs in the Rockies. He spent many hours on the Deal Esplanade and 8th Avenue jetties, and on the Naples Florida Pier, where he had his record one-day catch of “a pile” of Spanish mackerel.
Bruce was an avid reader and traveler, a great cook and photographer, and could play the trumpet, guitar, and piano. He could build or fix anything. After retirement, Bruce transferred his early hobby of building and flying model airplanes to building and shooting off Rockets with CENJARS. He also spent time “buttering bagels” on Tuesday in the St. Jerome’s cafeteria, wintering in Naples, and watching and mentoring his last grandson.
Bruce was predeceased by his parents, Lloyd and Betty Hagerman. He is survived by his wife of over 40 years, Ann Kurec Hagerman, his three children, their spouses, six grandchildren, three God children, and many cousins, close friends, and good neighbors in New Jersey, Florida, and Massachusetts.
Bruce’s visitation will be held 4:30-8:00 PM on Tuesday May 17 at Bongarzone Funeral Home, 2400 Shafto Rd, Tinton Falls, NJ. Mass will be offered at 11:00 AM on Wednesday May 18 at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church, 684 Alta Vista Pl, Perth Amboy, NJ. Interment will follow at the Cemetery of the Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Assumption.
The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and admin staff at the Vantage Point Infusion Center in West Long Branch who helped Bruce during his chemotherapy treatments and the nurses on Greenwald 5 who eased his journey.
Any donations can be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital at www.stjude.org/donate For online condolences, please visit Bruce’s memorial page at www.bongarzonefuneralhome.com
Donald E. Czekanski, 96 of Tinton Falls, passed away peacefully on April 22.
Donald (Don) was a WWII Veteran and served in the Air Force in the Pacific Theater as a Tail Gunner on B-29’s from 1944-45, returning to the states in 1946. A Financial Executive, Don earned bachelors and master’s degrees from Penn State University and New York University, respectively, which led to various financial and managerial roles all with AT&T/Bell Laboratories.
In retirement, Don served on the Manchester Township Planning Commission for over twenty years including eight as Chairman. He also was involved in numerous Veteran’s projects, served on the Veteran’s Committee for over ten years and was one of the leaders who conceptualized, fund-raised, and built the thirty-acre World War II Veterans Memorial Park that opened in Whiting in 2010.
Don led an active life as he enjoyed his family, volunteering, landscaping and gardening, traveling, running, golf, local politics, and rooting for Penn State football and the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates.
Born and raised in Mount Pleasant, PA, Don settled in Morristown, NJ where he raised his family. Following retirement, he moved to Leisure Knoll in Manchester Township, NJ spending twenty-seven years before moving to Seabrook Village in 2014.
Don is survived by Jean, his beloved wife of 67 years. Surviving are his son Richard Czekanski and his wife Jeannine, of Naperville, Illinois; his daughter Carol Iannucci and her husband Raymond, of Morris Plains, NJ; and his son John Czekanski and his wife Karen Lowry, of Lantana, FL; five grandchildren, Michael, Stephen, Laura, Jack, and Emma Czekanski; and three great-grandchildren, Easton, Aiden and Claire Czekanski.
A memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, June 11, 2022, at 10:30am at Seabrook Village, 3000 Essex Road, Tinton Falls followed by a reception. Interment will be private at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.
Essex County, NJ – Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. announced the creation of the Essex County Office of LGBTQ Affairs and introduced Reginald Bledsoe from Newark as its first Director on Friday, May 13th. The Essex County Office of LGBTQ Affairs will support the LBGTQ community and provide a platform to address issues, advocate for reforms and raise awareness.
“I always say that the strength of Essex County lies in the diversity of our residents, and that includes the LGBTQ community. They have a tremendous role in all sectors of the county, from the arts to education to politics to business and our new LGBTQ Affairs Office will provide a platform for advocacy and raise awareness,” DiVincenzo said. “For years, our LGBTQ Advisory Board has advised my administration and, when they recommended that more attention be given to issues affecting the LGBTQ community, I knew the creation of this office was needed,” he added.
“This is indeed a red-letter day for Essex County and its LGBTQ community. The creation of this office signals that LGBTQ+ individuals are full members of the Essex County community and that the county government will listen to our concerns, address our needs and respond to our desires,” Bledsoe said. ““This office would not exist without the work and advocacy of Essex County Executive Joseph N DiVincenzo, Jr., Chief of Staff Phil Alagia, Deputy Chief of Staff Teresa Ruiz; Director Anibal Ramos, Jr., and the Essex County LGBTQ Advisory Board for their efforts to ensure that Essex County becomes an even more welcoming place for LGBTQ people,” he added.
Elected officials and community members lauded the announcement and Bledsoe’s appointment.
“This office will help provide a different lens when we discuss policy, business development and education. This will provide another variable in making decision to continue Putting Essex County First,” Senate Majority Leader and Deputy Chief of Staff Teresa Ruiz said, adding the Bledsoe bring a unique perspective not only because of his personal experience but because he has worked at every level of government in New Jersey.
“I commend Joe for putting this together and having the foresight to know how important this is to the community. What a day for Essex County. This is long overdue,” said Commissioner President Wayne Richardson, who was accompanied by Commissioners Tyshammie Cooper, Patricia Sebold and Len Luciano.
“Joe does an excellent job of recognizing the diversity of Essex County. Reggie is a tremendous individual who is right for the job,” Prosecutor Ted Stephens said, adding that his office “upholds the rights of everyone.”
“This is truly a landmark event in Essex County. Creating an office sends a strong message. Our equality, safety and happiness are intersectional. This office will be a place where the LGBTQ community can seek advocacy, support and services, which is truly important at this time. I thank the County Executive for being such an incredible ally,” said Maplewood Mayor Dean Dafis, who also serves as Co-Chair of the Essex County LGBTQ Advisory Board.
“Reggie is the perfect individual for this job and we look forward to working with him,” said Hyacinth Foundation Executive Director Kathy Ahearn-O’Brien, who also serves as Co-Chair of the Essex County LGBTQ Advisory Board.
“Thank you, Joe DiVincenzo, for being a true supporter. This office is the next step toward lived equality and making sure the laws reach people they were intended for,” Garden State Equality Director Christian Fuscarino said.
“Councilor Russo and I joined officials from all over Essex County today to welcome Reggie Bledsoe into the role of Director of the all new Essex County Office of LGBTQ Affairs,” said Montclair Councilor at Large Peter Yacobellis. “Wearing both of my hats — as an out public official and head of Out Montclair and with everything happening in our country in terms of my community being targeted for discrimination so blatantly, I’m so thankful to Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo for putting real resources into this important work. I look forward to working with Reggie and the County to ensure LGBTQ+ people in Montclair are protected and cared for.”
About Director Reginald Bledsoe
Bledsoe is no stranger to Essex County having been born and raised in Newark, graduated from Essex County Newark Tech, elected as the youngest Democratic District Leader in District 5 of Newark’s Central Ward and serving as a member of the Newark Board of Education from 2017 to 2020. He also received the Essex County Pride Award from DiVincenzo in 2017.
He worked in Governor Phil Murphy’s administration for four years, starting with the NJ Department of Education before transitioning to the Department of Community Affairs. He also worked as a Legislative Aide to Essex County Commissioner President Wayne Richardson and former Freeholder President Blonnie Watson. He currently serves as a member of the NJ Performing Arts Center’s LGBTQ+ Advisory Council.
Previously, Bledsoe served as an advisory board member for New Jersey Child Assault Prevention (NJ CAP), a statewide community-based prevention program, and a Legislative Aide to Newark Councilman Eddie Osborne. He also has served in various capacities with the Newark Municipal Government, High Park Gardens Cooperative Corporation and the late United States Senator Frank R. Lautenberg. He is a former member of the New Jersey Federation of Housing Cooperatives and the National Association of Housing Cooperatives, and has been on the Board of Directors for United Community Corporation, One Voice for LGBTQ Issues, and Newark Gay Pride.
He is the recipient of numerous community awards. He was featured in Observer New Jersey’s List of 50 Powerful Young Black Democrats in 2015 and as one of New Jersey’s 30 Under 30: Political Up-and-Comers in 2016.
He studied at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania before completing his studies in Political Science at Montclair State University and was elected as the first African American Male Student Trustee on MSU’s Board of Trustees.
The Essex County Office of LGBTQ Affairs is part of the Essex County Division of Community Action. For information, please call 973-395-8350.
MILLBURN, NJ — The annual youth fishing derbies are returning to Essex County parks this year, including one at the South Mountain Recreation Complex, not far from Millburn/Short Hills.
In each derby, children will get prizes for catching the most fish and in various age categories.
On Thursday, May 26, kids can head to the Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex, Orange Reservoir, Paddle Boat area. On-site registration begins at 4:30 p.m. The derby begins at 5:30 p.m. and awards will be presented at 7 p.m.
There are also several other fishing derbies around Essex County in May and June. For the complete list, click here.
The derbies are free and open to kids 15 and under. They must be accompanied by an adult and bring a pole, bait, chair, and more.
Each derby may be postponed in bad weather.
For the full list of rules, and more information, click here.
MILLBURN, NJ — The annual youth fishing derbies are returning to Essex County parks this year, including one at the South Mountain Recreation Complex, not far from Millburn/Short Hills.
In each derby, children will get prizes for catching the most fish and in various age categories.
On Thursday, May 26, kids can head to the Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex, Orange Reservoir, Paddle Boat area. On-site registration begins at 4:30 p.m. The derby begins at 5:30 p.m. and awards will be presented at 7 p.m.
There are also several other fishing derbies around Essex County in May and June. For the complete list, click here.
The derbies are free and open to kids 15 and under. They must be accompanied by an adult and bring a pole, bait, chair, and more.
Each derby may be postponed in bad weather.
For the full list of rules, and more information, click here.
PISCATWAY — An educator known to be an advocate for LGBTQ students has been denied tenure in Piscataway.
Cassia Mosdell has been a school psychologist/behaviorist and school anti-bullying specialist at T. Schor Middle School in Piscataway.
She faced backlash for organizing a “Day of Silence,” according to a Facebook group called North NJ Democratic Socialists of America.
During a packed meeting on Thursday night, the Piscataway school board voted to effectively fire Mosdell, who has been quarantined with COVID-19, as reported by News 12 New Jersey.
“I feel the district is sending the wrong message to our youth – that they should not advocate on these issues or speak out. I’m simply not willing to let that stand,” Mosdell said in a statement cited in the same report.
An online petition had collected more than 500 signatures as of Friday, urging the Board of Education to reconsider their dismissal of Mosdell.
“Dr. Mosdell has been a trusted advisor to LGBTQ youth and allies for four years. Dr. Mosdell has consistently done outstanding work in our schools. She has dedicated more than 20 years to supporting students and young children,” according to the Change.org petition started by Tiffany Clark.
“Given the attacks on LGBTQ youth across the country, now more than ever, students need to see that they and their allies are valued by our school community,” the petition also said.
The Day of Silence is a national, student-led demonstration each April, during which LGBTQ students and allies “take a vow of silence to protest the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ people in schools,” according to advocacy organization, GLSEN.
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MORRISTOWN — A woman sexually assaulted on a Morris County trail during an attempted robbery defended herself by biting down on her attacker’s genitals, according to police.
Court documents say Lizandro Osorio-Mejia, 18, admitted to the May 3 attack during an interview with detectives. A 17-year-old male teen is also accused of acting as a lookout.
The victim was walking along the Traction Line Recreation Trail at 3:40 p.m. when she was pushed into the woods, according to an affidavit. She suffered a broken knee in the fall.
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Police said Osorio-Mejia then pinned the woman to the ground using his knees. He had a rock in one hand, but slapped her face with the other, according to the complaint.
Morristown sex assault suspect (Morris County Sheriff’s
The teens first tried demanding money from their victim, the affidavit said. Police said that when the robbery failed, Osorio-Mejia tried to force the victim to perform oral sex on him.
“I will finish you,” he told the woman during the attack, according to the affidavit.
But the victim fought back using her mouth as a weapon. The affidavit says she bit down on Osorio-Mejia’s penis.
The retaliatory chomp “startled” Osorio-Mejia. the complaint said. Police said he fled, along with the lookout.
Morristown sex assault suspect (Morris County Sheriff’s)
A man walking his dog found the victim still on the trail sometime after the attack. He called 9-1-1.
Morristown police arrested the two teenagers on May 5, just hours after authorities released surveillance images of the suspects. They each face several charges including aggravated sexual assault, aggravated criminal sexual contact, and weapons offenses.
Along with the sexual assault and attempted robbery, the affidavit states Osorio-Mejia admitted to stealing two bicycles.
Rick Rickman is a reporter for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at richard.rickman@townsquaremedia.com
Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.
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