NUTLEY, NJ - The weather forecast called for rain, thunderstorms to be exact, in Nutley for the evening of July Fourth.
The original prediction said during the time of the fireworks, but the township stuck it out. The only rain was the bright display of colors shimmering down on the township. Nutley held its annual Fourth of July Celebration without a hitch. The rain came well after the show ended.
Joined with Mayor John V. Kelly III, were Commissioners Joseph P. Scarpelli and Alphonse Petracco.
Michael Chieffo, owner of DJMC Entertainment, kept the crowd hopping before the fireworks. People did the “Chicken Dance,” the Cha-Cha Slide” and the Electric Slide.”
Before the firework show, Kelly made his first Fourth of July birthday greeting as Nutley mayor.
“[...] I‘d like to ask everyone to please rise and uncover for a lady who is 248 years old, a lady who needs no introduction. I'm talking about Old Glory, the Star-Spangled Banner, our flag that is a beacon of freedom for all. [...] She is a constant reminder of the promise that was handed down to us by our founding fathers and that we pass down to our children, that all are created equal [...]” he said.
Kelly thanked his staff from the Public Affairs Department who helped make the event run smoothly. He thanked the Public Safety Department for keeping everyone safe at the event. He also thanked his fellow Commissioners and said that the event was a joint effort, mentioning Commissioners Mauro G. Tucci and Thomas J. Evans. They were unable to make it to the event.
Zachary Sebek of Nutley sang the national anthem.
Kelly's cousin, Jemma, hit the “button” to start the fireworks show.
Chieffo started out the show with the Neil Diamond song, “America," from the Jazz Singer and closed with Miley Cyrus' 'Party in the USA.'
People filled up Franklin Avenue enjoying food trucks consisting of the classic boardwalk staples, zeppoles, cheese steaks, sausage and peppers, pizza, soft serve ice cream, lemonade and, of course, hot dogs. Those who didn’t want the usual fair food had the choice of Cuban from Cubita's or Greek from Pita Bowl. Additionally, open for business along the fireworks route were Jernick's Specialties / Spanky's Gourmet Grub and Cupily Coffeehouse.
For the first time this year, the driveway of John H. Walker Middle School was set up as an exclusive area for veterans.