Heights Man Competing in Sinatra Idol

One of Hasbrouck Heights very own will compete in the seventh annual Sinata Idol Contest in Hoboken this Friday.

Donnie Farraro is among 15 contestants from three countries and four states, including six from New Jersey to compete in this popular competition which awards prizes to the best Sinatra-styled singers.

The competition was postponed from Thursday, due to expected heavy rainfall, to Friday, June 14 at 6:30 p.m. in Sinatra Park.

"Real Housewives of New Jersey" brothers Chris and Albie Manzo will be the featured judges.

Farraro, a retired truck driver, sang back during his Army days but recent life events led him to develop a love for singing Sinatra songs. Seven years ago he was diagnosed with stage four cancer of the tongue and told he might not talk again, maybe not even life, much less sing but with the help of modern medicine and faith in God he made a full recovery, states his bio.

Farraro was asked to make a speech about his cancer fight at Hackensack University Medical Center but instead chose to sing some Sinatra songs. The response was overwhelming and he's been singing Sinatra ever since.

James Anthony, the 2012 Sinatra Idol winner, will be on hand to sing a few songs and pass the trophy on to this year's winner.

Friday's event, which is free to the public, is being sponsored by Muller Insurance, Carlo's Bakery, Little Town NJ and Stan’s Sports Center.

An after-party will be held at Little Town NJ, located at 310 Sinatra Drive, immediately following the competition.

Patch Local Editor Zak Koeske contributed to this article.