[Photos] Cops & Rockers Rocks Verona High School

Elvis Presley once said, “Man, I was tame compared to what they do now.” Music sure has changed since then and that quote came to light at Verona High School, when a few students got to show everyone how talented they really are.

On Friday Feb. 3 the Verona Policemen’s Benevolent Association Local 72, in partnership with the (VMPA) The Verona Music Parent Association, hosted the second annual, “Cops & Rockers” music competition before an enthusiastic crowd at Verona High School.

The cheers from the audience, the flashing bright lights, and the squelching amplifiers filled the room with as much energy as a concert at Giants Stadium.   The event is a Battle of the Bands-style music competition, where local kids are given the opportunity to show off their talents while providing them with a rock star experience. Each band competed against each other for the grand prize, a day in a recording studio courtesy of Cat-Eyez Recording Studio in Verona.  

“When I was a kid there was nothing like this available. This event gives the kids a chance to play and shine in front of their family and friends and show everyone what they can do”, said Det. Sgt. Dan Greco of the Verona Police Department, who created the event last year. Rich Ciricillo, owner of RockTec Music of Verona, provided instruments, fog machines, and sound equipment for each band to use. RockTec also donated two Dean Guitars that were raffled off at the end of the show.  

Bob Agosto of Cat-Eyez Recording Studio in Verona, recorded the event and will provide each participant with a memorable DVD and CD of the performance. As always, the world renowned “Cop Band” made its appearance. This year, the cop band announced a special tribute and dedication to the late Jean McEnroe, who was a long time employee of Verona Township. Mrs. McEnroe was very close with the members of the P.B.A. and recently lost her battle with cancer at the age of 59.  

Professional Drummer “Segdrick Marsh”, was also on hand to share his experiences and give his advice to kids who might be thinking about pursuing a professional music career.   All donations from the event will go directly to the Verona High School Music Program to purchase instruments and update equipment and also to the Verona P.B.A. Local 72 Scholarship Fund.

Story and photos courtesy of Ed Carattini Jr., State Delegate Verona P.B.A. Local 72