"It is the goal of this administration to investigate and implement any initiative that will improve life in Irvington, and to do so with all due care, commitment and concern."
MAYOR WAYNE SMITH
Irvington’s annual celebration of Make A Difference Day will be filled with activities that support and highlight environmental efforts in the community.
The festivities kick off at 9:30 am on Saturday, October 28, 2006 at Town Hall with a an introductory ceremony, followed by cleanups on Civic Square and throughout the neighborhoods; cleaning implements will be provided by the Department of Public Works. The event will continue back at Town Hall, where awards will be bestowed as follows:
- Volunteer of the Year, given to an individual who has educated and encouraged young people on the importance of community service
- Making A Difference Award, given to the individual demonstrating long-term service and commitment
- Essential Piece Awards, granted to two individuals who provide invaluable assistance during community events
- Essential Piece Business Partnership Award, granted to a conscientious corporate partner
“We are recognizing a business for the first time to encourage greater participation in community events by the merchants,” according to Aubrey Malvasio, coordinator of the township’s Clean Communities program and who, along with Charlotte Galla, an Irvington resident, environmental activist and president of the Irvington Junior Environmental Club, is organizing the MADD celebration. Malvasio is also asking that churches become involved by holding clean-up projects. “We want everyone to be a part of the TEAM, because ‘Together, Everyone Achieves More,’ she added.
In addition, certificates will be awarded to the members of Sigma Beta student fraternity at Chancellor Avenue School, led by adviser DeMarkus Taylor, a fifth-grade teacher; sixth-grade students at Union Avenue Middle School, supervised by Cheryl Mullman, a sixth-grade teacher; and employees of Investors Savings Bank (on Springfield Avenue); supervised by third VP Maria Carrion, all of whom cleaned up graffiti at Chancellor Park during the township’s third annual Clean Communities gateway cleanup held on October 5.
Anthony Vauss, an inspector for the township’s Department of Housing Services and member of the Irvington Board of Education, rewarded the students’ efforts by donating DVD players to the two schools.
The ceremony will also mark the introduction of GOTCHA (Government for Greater Progress, Outstanding Community Achievements, Teamwork=Unity & Success, Civic Pride, Harmonious Efforts, Allegiance), an initiative that encourages environmental vigilence by residents through an incentive program.
Other attractions for the MADD celebration will include giveaways and from Investors Savings Bank, Springfield Avenue branch, the opportunity for parents to open a savings account for children ages 16 and under with a $5 minimum deposit. The bank will also have an informational table at Town Hall and is providing a clown to entertain the children. In addition, free books will be distributed from noon until 2 pm at the Irvington Public Library, located next to Town Hall.
“This is a great way for people to do something for their community and have fun at the same time,” Mayor Wayne Smith said. “We have activities for everyone, and we’re looking for a good turnout,” he added.
The MADD committee, in partnership with the Irvington Public Schools, has established a fund to upgrade multi-media services at the libraries for all 12 schools in the district. To date, a $100 donation has been made by Bob Bier, president of Richards Manufacturing in Irvington. To make a contribution, please mail checks to Aubrey Malvasio, Irvington Municipal Building, Department of Public Works, Room 209, Irvington, NJ 07111.
For more information about the MADD event, please call Malvasio at (973) 399-6697 or Galla at (973) 372-0614. Refreshments are being provided by Burger King on Lyons Avenue, Dunkin Donuts on Springfield Avenue and Rapp’s Beer & Soda on Clinton Avenue.
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