ENGLEWOOD, N.J.—Independence Day in Englewood is always a spectacular event in which residents and their friends and family come together to celebrate the community and the country. It’s a patriotic festival of fireworks, food, fun as well as a tribute to our forefathers.
On July 2, close to 1,000 residents and visitors set up chairs, tables and tents on the Dwight Morrow High School lawn where the Independence Day festivities began at 7 p.m.
On a large stage, there was continuous entertainment provided by DJ Alex from Blue Moon Cafe. There were also performances by students at the Black Box Performing Arts Center in Teaneck, and the Ermita Brothers band, a group of four powerhouse youngsters.
Food was everywhere! In addition to the picnic dinners that families brought, vendors sold grilled food and drinks and there was a continuous flow of people at the two ice cream trucks, popcorn and cotton candy stands.
The event had plenty to delight youngsters: a large play area with an inflatable bounce house, a giant slide, games, a colorful train, and a face painting booth.
Throughout the evening, Mayor Michael Wildes walked around the lawn greeting and shaking hands with dozens of people. His mayor’s booth gave out free fans, which came in handy in the hot humid weather.
At 8:30 p.m., Wildes came to the stage and welcomed everyone. He thanked the evening’s sponsors, Englewood Health, Englewood ShopRite, BMW of Tenafly and Jaguar of Englewood.
Wildes also thanked all the city council members and recognized the dignitaries that were present, including state Assemblyman Gordon Johnson, Councilman Charles Cobb, Councilman Michael Cohen and Police Chief Lawrence Suffern, who led the Pledge of Allegiance.
There was a shout out to the police, fire and public works departments for their continued help, and a special thank you was given to Catherine Melendez, the executive assistant to the city manager, for all the work she puts into the event every year.
Wildes delivered uplifting remarks to all the families that had assembled on the lawn.
“As the mayor of this city, I am proud to welcome everyone to this hallowed sacred ground. Let’s all give a ‘Happy Birthday’ and a standing ovation to the United States of America—243 years old! I can’t tell you how wonderful it is to gather under God’s canopy as we celebrate America’s birthday. I ask that you stand in a moment of silence to honor those that are not here today who fought for our freedom, safety and wellbeing.”
Wildes gave a special mention to venerated Englewood resident Olga Mosciaro, “the real mayor of Englewood,” as he affectionately refers to her.
“Olga’s father fought bravely in World War I and she graduated from DMHS in 1946.”
The much anticipated fireworks were finally set off behind the school at 9:15 p.m. For over 20 minutes, the night was filled with a dazzling array of brilliantly colored starbursts and rockets, as the school’s tower, displaying a huge American flag, stood majestically against the ebony canvas of the sky. It was an unforgettable sight.
Also unforgettable was the stirring rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” performed by DMHS student Jaden Edmond-Williams. It reminded people that Independence Day isn’t just about beach trips and barbecues. It is a tribute to freedom and to the men and women of valor who gave their lives to defend it. It is a belief that is deeply embedded in the hearts of all Americans.
Paulette Meyer, an Englewood resident who had come to the celebration with her young daughter, Madison, spoke glowingly about the celebration.
“I love the way this event brings the community together to celebrate America and all the blessings that we have. We are truly blessed,” she said.
