South Mountain Reservation

From 12 Meals to 2 Million: Franciscan Charities Launches First 5K Run &amp; Walk
September 12th event at South Mountain Recreation Complex – Franciscan Charities invites the community to run, walk, volunteer and support Newark neighbors in need
Franciscan Charities, a Newark nonprofit that has grown from serving 12 meals on its first day to providing 2 million hot meals for more than two decades, will host its first 5K Run &amp; Walk on Saturday, September 12, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the South Mountain Recreation Complex in West Orange.
The event will bring runners, walkers, volunteers and supporters together from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Participants can register online at <a href="https://franciscancharitiesinc.org/ways-to-give/5km-walk-run" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://franciscancharitiesinc.org/ways-to-give/5km-walk-run</a> or on event day at the Clipper Pavilion beginning at 8:00 a.m.
Franciscan Charities began more than 20 years ago as a small soup kitchen in the basement of St. Ann's Church in Newark. Since then, the organization has served 2 million hot meals, including approximately 140,000 meals last year.
Beyond meals, Franciscan Charities provides diapers and formula to families, school supplies and uniforms to children, winter coats, and holiday gifts. The organization's work during the COVID-19 pandemic was recognized nationally by the Obama Foundation, which featured Franciscan Charities as a "Story of Hope" and described the organization as "small but mighty." The City of Newark has also recognized Franciscan Charities as a "beacon of hope and inspiration."
“Food insecurity remains a serious challenge for many Newark residents, particularly families and individuals struggling with the rising costs of food, housing, and other basic necessities. Please come out and join us on the 12th - your support will make a real difference. We can do this together!” Brother Paul Miller, Founder and CEO

Local Event: Franciscan Charities 5K Run & Walk Fundraiser

Essex County

Newark

New Jersey

Franciscan Charities 5K Run & Walk Fundraiser

From 12 Meals to 2 Million: Franciscan Charities Launches First 5K Run & Walk
September 12th event at South Mountain Recreation...

First Presbyterian Church of Rutherford

Rutherford is about to shine a little brighter this holiday season. Stars Theatre Company, the town’s newest performing arts organization, is stepping onto the local stage with heart, ambition, and a musical that already has residents talking. Their debut production, It’s a Wonderful Life: A New Musical, is officially auditioning performers and in a modern twist, submissions are being accepted entirely by video submissions on their website.
For founder Laura Rizzo Ed.D., launching Stars Theatre Company in her hometown is more than a creative venture; it’s a dream rooted in community. After years of directing, choreographing, teaching, and building theatre programs for both teens and youth, she envisioned a company that welcomed performers of all ages and backgrounds. Rutherford has always possessed a vibrant creative pulse,” she shared. “It just required a dedicated home where local talent could bring that passion to life.”
The production itself is a fresh musical adaptation of the beloved holiday classic, featuring Book &amp; Lyrics by John W. Atkins and Music by Andrew Abrams. Laura Rizzo will be directing and choreographing the show, and Bart Nativo will be stage managing the production. It promises nostalgia, warmth, and a new musical lens on George Bailey’s journey, the kind of story that feels tailor made for a community eager to reconnect and celebrate together.
What’s generating the biggest buzz, though, is Stars Theatre Company’s audition approach. By inviting performers ages 8 to 80 to submit video auditions, the company is opening doors for busy families, working adults, and newcomers who might otherwise hesitate to step into a casting room. And with the audition deadline set for September 12th at Noon, excitement — and submissions are already pouring in.
“It’s about accessibility,” Rizzo explained. “We want people to feel welcomed, not intimidated. If you’ve ever dreamed of being onstage, whether you’re eight or eighty, this is your moment.”
There is no tuition to participate; instead, there is a $150 membership fee to join the production. Performers of all experience levels from the entire tristate area are welcome to audition.
Rehearsals begin September 20th to December 6th and will be on Sundays from 1:00 pm-5:00 pm, with performances scheduled for December 10, 11, and 12, 2026 at the First Presbyterian Church’s Karen Kaiser Parish House 32 Ridge Rd. The venue is conveniently located near the Rutherford NJ Transit station, making it easily accessible for performers and audience members traveling from across the region. And as anticipation builds, the community is already buzzing about another announcement: tickets will go on sale September 20th, with general admission priced at just $20, and $15 for students &amp; seniors. The company hopes the affordable pricing will make holiday theatre accessible to families, students, seniors, and anyone looking to enjoy a heartwarming night out.
“Live theatre should feel welcoming,” Rizzo said. “We want people to walk in, feel the magic, and know they’re part of something special.”
Tickets will be available at starstheatre.com, where audiences can also find updates, cast announcements, and behind‑the‑scenes glimpses as the production comes to life.
Although It’s a Wonderful Life: A New Musical serves as the inaugural production for Stars Theatre Company, it represents just the start of their vision. Beyond this show, the company is actively preparing workshops, community gatherings, and upcoming performances. Every initiative aims to unite the community through creative storytelling, shared experiences, and lasting friendships.
With auditions underway, ticket sales approaching, and enthusiasm growing by the day, Rutherford’s newest theatre company is ready to make its mark — one heartfelt performance at a time.

Local Event: A New Theatre Company Brings Holiday Magic — and Opportunity to Rutherford!

Bergen County

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A New Theatre Company Brings Holiday Magic —...

Rutherford is about to shine a little brighter this holiday season. Stars Theatre Company, the town’s newest performing arts...

A New Theatre Company Brings Holiday Magic — and Opportunity to Rutherford!

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NAACP Newark and Partners to Host Literacy Fair to support creating stronger readers .

Local Event: Literacy Fair

Literacy Fair

NAACP Newark and Partners to Host Literacy Fair to support creating stronger readers .

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A Night of Legendary Music Is Coming to The Wellmont Theater / Montclair NJ.
Taylor Simon King is more than a concert - it's a time machine. Take A Nostalgic Look Back at 4 Decades of Classic Music That Became the Soundtrack to Our Generation!•
From the poetic soul of James Taylor, the electrifying energy of Carly Simon, to the timeless magic of Carole King - this tribute delivers unforgettable performances that will stir your heart, spark your memories, and get you singing every word.
• CRITICS CALL IT “an emotional musical journey. Truly a multiple generational evening out.
We are proud to say, this show is selling out across the country - don't miss your chance to relive the songs that shaped our lives. Produced by Franke Previte Academy Award winner (I've had) The time of my life Dirty Dancing.&nbsp;tickets taylorsimonking.com or wellmonttheater.com

Local Event: Taylor Simon King

Montclair

Taylor Simon King

A Night of Legendary Music Is Coming to The Wellmont Theater / Montclair NJ.
Taylor Simon King is more than a concert - it's a...

Hi fellow cat people! I am working with a company called Treat that seeks to recruit pets for in home wellness studies. There are great freebies (supplements, activity trackers, etc.) for those who participate and it's all done in the home. We are signing up ITCHY&nbsp;cats or cats that lick themselves a lot for our current study!&nbsp;Please sign up to see if you qualify!
<a href="https://tally.so/r/b5JDPL" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://tally.so/r/b5JDPL</a>

Eric Kiefer

New York City Metropolitan Area

Cat Wellness Study

Hi fellow cat people!  I am working with a company called Treat that seeks to recruit pets for in home wellness studies. There are great freebies ...

Absolute Home Mortgage Corporation, represented by Mortgage

Absolute Home Mortgage Corporation

Absolute Home Mortgage Corporation, represented by Mortgage Loan Originator Daryle Pellegrino, provides comprehensive home financing services to clients throughout New Jersey. Operating out of their Fairfield office at 165 Passaic Avenue, the team assists homebuyers, homeowners, and real estate investors with a wide range of mortgage needs. As an Equal Housing Lender, they are committed to guiding clients through the complexities of the lending process with professional expertise. With over 25 years of industry experience, Daryle Pellegrino specializes in navigating complex lending scenarios that often fall outside traditional guidelines. His expertise spans conventional, FHA, and VA financing, alongside specialized solutions such as Non-QM mortgages, bank statement programs for self-employed borrowers, DSCR investment loans, and ITIN financing. He also works closely with real estate professionals, attorneys, and CPAs to identify viable financing strategies for clients facing challenges with income, credit, or property documentation. Clients can expect a hands-on, personalized approach where every loan application is reviewed individually to ensure a thorough understanding of their financial picture. By prioritizing clear communication and creative problem-solving, the firm offers a reliable path forward for those who may have been declined elsewhere or require a tailored approach to their home financing journey.

Essex

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Absolute Home Mortgage Corporation, represented by Mortgage Loan Originator Daryle Pellegrino, provides comprehensive home financing services to...

Flat Roof Repair & Emergency Roofing in NJ

NJ Roofing Maintenance LLC

NJ Roofing Maintenance LLC is a trusted roofing contractor serving Orange, Newark, East Orange, and surrounding New Jersey areas. We specialize in flat roofing systems, roof repairs, leak detection, and full roof replacements for both residential and commercial properties. Our team is experienced with EPDM, TPO, and shingle roofing systems built to withstand New Jersey’s harsh weather conditions. We provide fast response times, honest pricing, and high-quality workmanship on every project. Whether you need emergency roof repair, maintenance, or a full replacement, NJ Roofing delivers reliable results you can trust. Call today for a fast estimate or visit our website to get your roof price instantly.

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NJ Roofing Maintenance LLC is a trusted roofing contractor serving Orange, Newark, East Orange, and surrounding New Jersey areas. We specialize in...

HZY Goods Dispensary in East Orange Now Open!

HZY Goods Dispensary

Welcome to HZY Goods — your neighborhood New Jersey licensed Cannabis Dispensary at 19 Prospect St, East Orange, NJ is Now Open. We’re a local, retro-inspired weed shop built on community, good energy, and premium products that make you feel right. From high-quality flower and pre-rolls to edibles and vapes, everything’s hand-picked for good vibes only. Visit us in-store or order online for fast cannabis delivery near you.

East Orange

Welcome to HZY Goods — your neighborhood New Jersey licensed Cannabis Dispensary at 19 Prospect St, East Orange, NJ is Now Open. We’re a local,...

Silver Lake

🌱 42nd Annual Rose Squared Art Show Anderson...

You won’t want to miss Franciscan Charities 5K Run & Walk Fundraiser on the Silver Lake Patch calendar

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Spotted on the Silver Lake calendar: Franciscan Charities 5K Run & Walk Fundraiser

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🌱 42nd Annual Rose Squared Art Show Anderson Park and 5 more events

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