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Veteran’s Banner Committee Seeks Public Assistance to Honor Fallen Heroes

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Support Boonton’s Initiative to Honor Fallen Veterans with Banners

BOONTON — The Veteran’s Banner Committee is reaching out to the community for help in honoring local heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. These brave men, many of whom attended Boonton High School, which included students from Boonton, Montville, Boonton Township, Parsippany, and Mountain Lakes, will soon be commemorated with banners throughout the town. However, before the banners can be finalized, the committee needs assistance in locating photos and branch of service information for the following men:

From World War I: Abraham W. Beddow, Raymond Bell, Joseph P. Bowden, George W. Buis, Thomas Byard, John B. Castmore, Carl E. Eckstrand, Harold D. Hildebrant, Herbert A. Hoagland, Stephen Krisanda, and Thomas Taylor.

From World War II: Jerome L. Arnov, Francis Bednar, Andrew H. Bladt, Roy C. Busse, Harold H. Daly, Herbert Darque, Arthur C. Davenport Jr., Robert J. Decker, Thomas DiCenzo, William Dodds, William Donos, Andrew J. Dziorny Jr., Richard B. English, Fred B. Estler, Donald Foley, David Healion, John Hoover, Joseph R. Hopkins, Louis Jacobus, Richard P. Kelly, Clarence H. McCain, Joseph L. McDermott, Gilbert A. Naughton, Chester Nycz, Charles P. Ofsonka, Joseph V. Pavliak, James Pazinich, Sol Petroff, Archie Piscitello, Wilbur A. Randolph, Frederick K. Rieve, Robeson Sherred, John E. Taylor, Wallace B. Thomas, Lowell Tuhle, Arumund R. Utne, Robert W. VanFleet, Joseph A. Zayac Jr., and Joseph J. Zibura.

If you have any information or leads, please contact Janine at [email protected] as soon as possible. These men, including two Medal of Honor recipients, were killed in action, and their memory deserves to be preserved with the utmost respect. Let’s work together to ensure their bravery and sacrifice are never forgotten. Thank you!

The Veterans Banner Program will be implemented in two phases. In phase I, which began May 2024, fundraising will take place for the 73 veterans named on the Town Hall Veteran’s Memorial monument; these are service members killed in action.  Thanks to the generous donations received as of August 1, 2024, approximately half the funds needed for Phase I have been raised.

Your donation will help us meet our goal of funding all 73 banners of Boonton veterans killed in action during Phase I. Once Phase I is complete, Phase II will focus on honoring additional past and current veterans. More details about Phase II will be released as Phase I funding goals are met. To complete Phase I, we need your help. 

Your generous donations help us honor and recognize the service of our local veterans. Contributions go towards the production, installation, and maintenance of the banners. Thank you for your support! Here are the ways you can donate:

1. By mailvia check. Make checks payable to The Town of Boonton, add your phone number in the memo line, and mail to:

100 Washington Street
Boonton, NJ 07005
Attention: Veteran’s Banners Program

2. OnlineVia electronic check or credit card by following the link to the Online Payment Portal

The platform charges $1.95 for electronic check payments and a 2.5% convenience fee for credit card payments.

3. In-personVia check or cash, during business hours (8:30-4:00 pm M-F) in person at Town Hall. 

Venetian Inspired Salumeria Offers a Unique Dining Experience in Boonton

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OMBRA Salumeria & Bar is located at 516 Main Street, Boonton

BOONTON — Imagine a charming, picturesque little salumeria and wine bar nestled in a quaint small town, where outside the streets are lined with artisanal shops, coffee houses, and a wide variety of diverse eateries. Now, imagine you’re sitting in that salumeria, or Bacari, in Venice, enjoying a perfectly made Negroni, or maybe a glass of vino, as you watch assorted house-made Salumi (meats), such as Prosciutto di Palma, Bresaola, Mortadella, Cacciatorini, and Formaggi (cheese), including fresh local Mozzarella, Casatica di Bufala, Sottocenere, and Pyrenees Brebis, and much more, being thinly sliced and artfully displayed upon assorted charcuterie boards, creating an aesthetically tantalizing and mouth-watering creation of Italian delicacies, all loaded with great flavor profiles that will keep your taste buds happy for days. Well, that’s pretty much the way they enjoy a night out socializing with friends, and family, or even a business meeting in Venice.

Jake, Ombra’s skilled mixologist, expertly crafted signature cocktails while I enjoyed a Bourbon Manhattan at their beautiful oak bar.

If a trip to Venice is not on your itinerary, no need to worry, you can now indulge in a taste of Venice right here in downtown Boonton at Ombra Salumeria & Bar. Ombra is located at 516 Main Street in one of the many storefronts in the heart of a truly picturesque American town. Boonton may not offer the canals, bridges, and gondolas of Venice, but does offer a lively, vibrant, and diverse street scene that surely suits this Venetian-inspired gem. 

Everything was fresh and delectable, and everyone enjoyed every bite. The sharing and conversation about the food and wine greatly enhanced the dining experience, and everyone was fully satiated when we cleared those plates. The unrushed pacing of dishes also allowed my group full enjoyment of our time while we enjoyed each other’s company and the meal.

 The exterior of Ombra features red brick walls, large inviting windows, and glass doors, with stylish, elegant calligraphy clearly announcing the restaurant’s name. Simple, but attractive, classy, and welcoming. On entering you are immediately greeted by a friendly and hospitable hostess. The warm ambiance is immediately captivating, with an interior design that somehow makes one feel welcomed. You can sense an energetic vibe of upscale elegance, yet at the same time also find yourself immersed in a casual, comfortable, and relaxed atmosphere.

Tagliere (cutting board) including multiple selections from Salumi (meats), Formaggi (cheese), and Accompaniments, such as Olives, Marinated Artichokes, Sun Dried Tomatoes, Homemade Fig Cake, and Grilled Cipollinis.

I was early for my reservation and was offered a seat at their large oak bar, where I ordered a Bourbon Manhattan while I waited for my guests. I enjoyed watching as Jake, Ombra’s very professional and amiable mixologist, masterfully crafted some amazing signature and craft cocktails for the other patrons at the bar. The bar is fully stocked and offers an extensive selection of quality liquors and fine Italian wines, with a focus on those from Veneto. According to Ombra, their wine list would mimic a list that would be found in Venice.

 An interesting note from Ombra’s website on how they chose the name: “The name Ombra means ‘shade’ or ‘shadow’ in Italian. It’s also Venetian slang for a small glass of wine, ‘un ombra de vin.’

 “Legend says that a wine vendor set up his wine cart daily beneath a bell tower in Venice. He’d move his cart to stay in the tower’s shadow as the sun moved. That’s how the expression ‘to meet someone in the shadow of the bell tower’ came to mean ‘meet for a glass of wine.’  Over time, a glass of wine in Venice became known as an ‘ombra.”

Cicchetti, which are typical Venetian small bites served in the local “bacari” or wine bars and served on toasted crostini (an Italian appetizer of small slices of toasted bread with toppings).

The restaurant is broken into a main dining area and a lower-level bar. The main floor boasts a mid-century modern vibe with that large oak bar that I mentioned. Walls are covered with exposed brick, seating is along with side wall in comfortable tufted brown leather banquettes, dark accents, and white wood beamed ceiling, ornate hanging lighting, rustic wood plank flooring, and a white marble open-kitchen area, reminiscent of a charming Italian villa. Meanwhile, the downstairs offers a smaller bar in a dimly lit intimate lounge with velvet couches and vintage cocktail tables. One had the sense of being in an old-time speakeasy. They also offer tasting events in their downstairs lounge, including wine tastings and cocktail classes. I had my reservations for downstairs, but when my guests arrived and enjoyed a cocktail, they were so comfortable enjoying themselves upstairs that we asked to switch to one of the upstairs tables, which worked out great.

Truffle Burrata

The menu was broken down into Cicchetti, which are typical Venetian small bites served in the local “bacari” or wine bars and served on toasted crostini (an Italian appetizer of small slices of toasted bread with toppings). You might think of them as Tapas. Some examples include Shrimp, Corn, and Lime Aioli, Quail Egg and Anchovies, Goat Cheese and Long hot Pepper Jelly, and Sicilian Tuna. Antipasti, which would include among others Truffle Burrata, Charcuterie Tartare, Shaved Carrots, and Panzanella. Insalata would include Italian BLT, Red Gem Lettuce, and Caesar Salads. Tagliere (cutting board) including multiple selections from Salumi (meats), Formaggi (cheese), and Accompaniments, such as Olives, Marinated Artichokes, Sun Dried Tomatoes, Homemade Fig Cake, and Grilled Cipollinis.

We enlisted our knowledgeable server to help guide us through the menu, as well as the suggested wine to pair with our choices. We started with the cicchetti, choosing a mix of assorted toppings. For our antipasti we shared some Truffle Burrata, Shaved Carrots, and Panzanella. For our Tagliere we also shared a mixed selection of Salumi and Formaggi, with an accompaniment or two mixed in. Everything was fresh and delectable, and everyone enjoyed every bite. The sharing and conversation about the food and wine greatly enhanced the dining experience, and everyone was fully satiated when we cleared those plates. The unrushed pacing of dishes also allowed my group full enjoyment of our time while we enjoyed each other’s company and the meal.

Ice Cream Sandwich, which sounds simple, but was a complex and decadently delicious dessert.

Desserts were equally appealing. I was informed that all their desserts are homemade at one of their other restaurants, Sorellina in Hoboken. I tried their Ice Cream Sandwich, which sounds simple, but was a complex and decadently delicious dessert. Other desserts include such offerings as Rainbow Cookie Cake with Stracciatella Gelato and Peanut Butter Budino. As a side note, the owner, Gabi Lombardi, a certified Sommelier, currently has four restaurants, and I understand another one is on the way. Unfortunately, she was not in the house at the time of my visit.

Rainbow Cookie Cake

Let me end by saying that this Venetian-inspired salumeria and wine bar serves as a culinary destination and a wonderful gathering place for friends and families, creating memories over shared plates and laughter. When looking for a new and unique dining experience give it a try. I found it a memorable dining experience, I’m confident you will too.

Buon cibo, buoni amici, bei moment. Salute!

Private Cocktail Classes & Wine Tastings; Menus can accommodate Open Bar packages; Private parties can accommodate up to 30 guests. Downstairs Lounge is available for Cocktail Parties and Tasting Events. Street Parking. Reservations accepted.

Hours: Monday to Thursday, Open at 4:00 p.m.; Friday to Sunday, Open at 2:00 p.m.: Aperitivo Happy Hour: Monday to Friday, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. / Tuesday, All Night; Downstairs Lounge: Open Thursday to Saturday at 5:00 p.m.

OMBRA Salumeria & Bar is located at 516 Main Street, Boonton. Phone: (201) 367-1196. Website: www.ombraboonton.com

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, October 2024. Click here to view the complete magazine.

Holy Family School Seeks Community Donations for Upcoming Tricky Tray Fundraiser

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FLORHAM PARK — Holy Family School is gearing up for its highly anticipated Tricky Tray Fundraiser on November 23 and is calling on community members and businesses to help make the event a success. The school is actively seeking donations, including gift cards and new, unused items, to be featured as prizes during the fundraiser.

The Tricky Tray Fundraiser is a major event for Holy Family School, drawing over 300 attendees from the local community. All donors will be recognized in the event program, providing an excellent opportunity for local businesses to connect with families and supporters while contributing to a good cause.

In addition to item donations, businesses are invited to support the event by placing an advertisement in the program, which will offer attendees even more visibility.

“We are incredibly thankful for the support we receive each year from local businesses and families,” said a representative from Holy Family School. “It’s through this generosity that we can continue offering vital resources and opportunities for our students.”

If you are interested in supporting the Tricky Tray Fundraiser, please email [email protected] to coordinate your donation or to inquire about advertising opportunities.

This event promises to be a fun and impactful evening, with proceeds going toward enhancing the educational experience at Holy Family School. Whether you contribute by donating items or through sponsorship, your involvement is a valuable way to make a difference in the lives of local students.

Mark your calendars for November 23 and join Holy Family School in its effort to make this year’s Tricky Tray Fundraiser a resounding success!

Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney to Attend Coffee with a Cop Event

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Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney

DOVER — The Dover Police Department, led by Chief Jonathan Delaney, invites community members to join them for “Coffee with a Cop” on Wednesday, October 2, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Dover Free Public Library, located at 32 East Clinton Street.

The event, part of a national initiative, aims to break down barriers between police officers and the community they serve. Attendees will have the chance to meet with Chief Delaney and other Dover officers in a relaxed and friendly setting, enjoying a cup of coffee while engaging in informal discussions. This provides residents the opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and get to know their local law enforcement officials on a personal level.

“We hope to create an open dialogue with the residents of Dover. Events like ‘Coffee with a Cop’ give us a chance to connect with the community in a casual setting, where people can feel comfortable approaching us,” said Chief Delaney.

The Dover Police Department has long been committed to building strong relationships with the town’s diverse community. By organizing events like this, they aim to foster a sense of trust and transparency between the department and the people they protect.

The event is free and open to all members of the public. Coffee and light refreshments will be provided, and no RSVP is necessary. For more information about the event, contact the Dover Police Department.

Mark your calendars for October 2, and come out to meet your local officers while enjoying coffee and conversation.

Madison Rotary Club Fires Up the Grill for Bottle Hill Day Fundraiser

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Join the Fun: Madison Rotary Grilling Burgers and Recruiting Members at Bottle Hill Day

MADISON — The Madison Rotary Club is gearing up for Bottle Hill Day on Saturday, October 5, where they’ll once again grill hamburgers and hot dogs at Central and Cook Avenues. As in past years, Bottle Hill Tavern generously donates all the food, and the Rotary gets a helping hand from Madison High School’s Interact Club.

This year, Rotary members are also adding a second booth on Waverly Place to focus on recruiting new members. According to Rotarian Joe Smith, they’ll confirm the exact location for this booth in the coming days. The idea behind the second booth is to create a quieter space where potential members can engage in conversations without the hustle and bustle of the food stand.

“We get really busy with the food sales, so having this additional booth will allow us to talk with people about joining the Rotary,” Smith explained. “We’re just trying to increase membership.”

Smith has been managing the food operation for the Rotary at Bottle Hill Day since 2007, though he recalls the tradition going back much longer. Having lived in Madison since 1989, Smith notes that long-time residents always appreciate seeing the Rotary continuing this annual tradition.

The funds raised from the food sales are used to support grants for local charities, and for many members, the event offers a chance to reconnect with old friends. “It’s almost like a little reunion,” Smith said.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Gears Up for 28th Annual Wine Tasting Event

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File Photo

PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is thrilled to announce its 28th Annual Wine Tasting Event, set to take place on Thursday, October 17, at the renowned Hanover Manor, located at 16 Eagle Rock Avenue, East Hanover. This much-anticipated event will run from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and promises to be a night to remember.

Guests will be treated to a variety of wines provided by Joe Canal’s Discount Liquors, complemented by an impressive array of hot and cold appetizers, buffet food stations, and decadent dessert stations. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore fine wines, indulge in gourmet bites, and mingle with friends, all while supporting a good cause.

Tickets are available for $75.00 per person, and all attendees must be 21 years of age or older. To purchase tickets, guests can visit the event’s official website at www.KiwanisWineTasting.com.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the charitable efforts of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation, Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter, and the Sons of Italy Lodge 2561. These organizations are committed to enhancing the community through various initiatives and supporting those in need.

“We are excited to once again bring together the community for this signature event,” said Doreen Brennan, President Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. “It’s not only a fantastic evening of wine and food, but it also allows us to raise funds that directly benefit local charities and causes. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a community supporter, or simply looking for a fun evening out, this year’s Wine Tasting is sure to deliver. The event has become a beloved tradition in the community, drawing attendees from across the region.

For additional information, including sponsorship opportunities or inquiries, please contact the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany or visit their website. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting event and contribute to worthy causes that make a difference in the community.

Open House this Sunday Funday: 192 Boulevard, Mountain Lakes

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This meticulously landscaped and lovingly maintained home is the one you have been waiting for!

MOUNTAIN LAKES — This Sunday, September 29th, potential homebuyers are invited to explore a stunning property located at 192 Boulevard in the serene community of Mountain Lakes. From 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., visitors will have the chance to tour this spacious and modern home, offering an impressive blend of comfort, style, and functionality.

Set on .42 acres of land, this beautiful residence boasts six generously sized bedrooms and four and a half luxurious bathrooms. As guests step inside, they’ll be greeted by bright, open living spaces that create an inviting and warm atmosphere, perfect for family life and entertaining. The sleek, modern kitchen is a chef’s dream, offering high-end finishes and plenty of space to prepare meals for gatherings large and small.

For those who enjoy cozy evenings at home, the living room features a charming fireplace, ideal for relaxing with loved ones during colder months. Upstairs, the master suite offers a private oasis, complete with ample space to unwind after a long day. The finished basement provides flexibility for a gym, playroom, or entertainment center, ensuring that every member of the family has space to enjoy their hobbies.

Outdoors, the expansive backyard is perfect for hosting summer barbecues, playing with pets, or simply enjoying the fresh air. A two-car garage adds convenience and plenty of storage space.

Mary Menard of Compass Realty, who is handling the sale, encourages interested buyers to stop by the Open House for a closer look at what could be their future home. “This home has something for everyone,” she says. “It’s a perfect mix of modern living and cozy charm, and we can’t wait for people to experience it firsthand.”

For more information about the property or to ask questions ahead of the Open House, contact Mary Menard at [email protected]. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this remarkable home and envision your life at 192 Boulevard.

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Mayor of Dover Calls on Councilman to Step Down After Second Assault Arrest

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Former Dover Councilman Sergio Rodriguez

DOVER — In a public statement, Dover Mayor James Dodd calls for Second-Ward Councilman Sergio Rodriguez’s resignation after the councilman was charged with assault.

“Recent actions attributed to Councilman Rodriguez,” Dodd stated in a Facebook post, “cannot be overlooked.”

initially first-term Councilman Sergio Rodriguez when he was arrested in February, following an altercation with a group of homeless men he accused of public drinking. However, Dodd is now calling for Rodriguez’s resignation after the councilman was once again charged with assault.

According to an official document received by Morris Focus, (Complaint # S-2024-205) a complaint filed in Dover Municipal Court by Det. Concepcion on September 25 at 11:48 a.m. charged Rodriguez with 2C:12:1B(7) aggravated assault, attempted to cause significant bodily injury, a third-degree charge.

Rodriguez, elected in November on Dodd’s ticket, began his term in January by posting social media videos addressing “quality of life” issues in Dover. These videos showed him confronting individuals for alleged infractions such as public drinking and violating trash ordinances, mainly at the Meridia Transit Plaza. One of these incidents, involving homeless men, led to Rodriguez’s first arrest in February. In a video received via an OPRA Request from the Dover Police Department relating to the February 7, Rodriguez is seen in an escalating altercation, at one point kicking a clear bottle out of one man’s hands.

Meridia Transit Plaza has garnered a reputation as a frequent hangout for the homeless and individuals consuming alcohol in public. Morris Focus has been flooded with numerous emails, many including photos, depicting instances of public urination at the location. These ongoing incidents have raised concerns among residents, sparking discussions about how to address the situation and improve the area’s safety and cleanliness. Residents have also complained at Council meetings.

“Regrettably, today Councilman Rodriguez has exhibited behavior that is unacceptable and does not reflect the principles of leadership we strive for in our local government,” Dodd wrote.

“In light of recent events, I am formally requesting the resignation of Councilman Rodriguez,” he added.

“If he has not resigned from office before our next Council meeting, we urge our Town Attorney to take any possible legal steps to bar Council Member Rodriguez from proceedings for the safety of our fellow Council Members and of the community at large,” said Council Members Karol Ruiz and Sandra Wittner.

Morris Focus attempted to reach out to Rodriguez and calls went to voice mail and he has not yet responded to requests for comment.

Community Effort Revives Historic Cannon in Morristown for Upcoming Celebrations

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Morris County Kicks Off 250th Anniversary Celebrations with Cannon Rededication

MORRIS COUNTY — This Sunday, a rededication ceremony for a restored Revolutionary War replica cannon will mark the unofficial start of Morris County’s celebrations for America’s 250th anniversary. The event will feature a ribbon-cutting at 11:00 a.m. in front of Acorn Hall in Morristown, just ahead of the Morristown Festival on the Green, which kicks off at noon.

The public is invited to visit and view the newly restored cannon, which stands on an island between Morris and Lafayette avenues, in front of Acorn Hall. The cannon has served as a symbol of Morris County’s rich Revolutionary War history for the past 20 years. Morris County played a crucial role in America’s fight for independence, hosting two winter encampments of General George Washington and his troops, and housing historically significant sites like the Ford Mansion, Fort Nonsense, and Jockey Hollow.

Event Details:

  • What: Rededication of the Replica Revolutionary War Cannon
  • Where: In front of Acorn Hall, between Morris & Lafayette Avenues, Morristown
  • When: Sunday, September 29, 11:00 a.m., one hour before the Morristown Festival on the Green

This cannon rededication marks one of the first events in a series that will celebrate the upcoming Semiquincentennial. Earlier this year, the Morris County Board of County Commissioners committed $100,000 to the Morris County Economic Development Alliance and the Morris County Tourism Bureau to coordinate the 250th-anniversary celebrations.

“Our 250th is a great opportunity for our county. We invite everyone who wants to learn about the American Revolution to visit, explore, and discover how Morris County played a pivotal role in establishing the best nation in the world,” said Commissioner Director Christine Myers.

The replica cannon was originally installed outside Acorn Hall, home to the Morris County Historical Society, in the early 2000s by the Greater Morristown Historic Foundation. The installation aimed to raise awareness of Morris County’s role in the Revolutionary War. Over the years, exposure to the elements caused the cannon’s wooden structure to deteriorate, requiring extensive restoration.

The Greater Morristown Historic Foundation, founded by philanthropist Richard “Dick” Deskovick, made significant contributions to the area, including the Patriots’ Farewell fountain on the Morristown Green. Though the foundation has since disbanded, its legacy lives on through projects like the Cannon. In 2023, Ryan Dawson led a group of local citizens to restore the cannon, continuing the tradition of community-driven preservation.

“The cannon’s condition was brought to my attention by Jennifer Wehring of the Morristown Partnership,” said Dawson. “She and I knew the community would step in once someone took ownership of the project. Between members of the community and civic organizations, we raised the funds to bring the cannon back to life. It was a true group effort, and I knew Morristown’s residents would rise to the occasion.”

For more information, contact the Morristown Partnership at (973) 455-1133, or the Morris County Historical Society at (973) 267-3465.

Jordon DeCosta: Boonton Native Leads Morristown Beard JV Football to a Strong Start

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Boonton’s Jordon DeCosta Makes Waves as New Jersey’s Youngest Varsity Assistant Coach

MORRIS COUNTY — At just 22 years old, Jordon DeCosta is already making a notable impact as the Varsity assistant football coach and head JV coach at Morristown Beard School (MBS). In his debut season, DeCosta has guided the JV team to a 2-0 start, centering his coaching philosophy on the pillars of “Mindset, Behavior, and Strength.” Despite a recent loss, his focus remains on fostering player growth and resilience.

A native of Boonton, DeCosta played a key role in Boonton High School’s 2019 state championship victory and continued his football success at Fairleigh Dickinson University, where he helped the team win the ECAC James Lynah Bowl Championship.

Now the youngest varsity assistant coach in New Jersey, DeCosta works alongside Tahj Valentine, who at 23 is the youngest head coach in the country. Together, they are building a team culture focused on player development. Reflecting on his players, DeCosta expressed, “This group has a lot of heart. Their commitment has been outstanding, and I’m proud of how they’ve tackled challenges and stepped up in every game. It’s not just about the wins; it’s about the growth I witness each week.”

DeCosta also holds Coach Valentine in high regard, viewing him as both a leader and mentor. “Working under Coach Valentine has been an incredible experience. His vision and energy are infectious. As the youngest head coach in the country, he’s proven that leadership knows no age. He’s cultivated a culture where players and coaches alike are challenged to grow daily. His trust in me has allowed me to take ownership of the JV team in a way that’s made a real impact.”

Coach DeCosta’s emphasis on relationships, accountability, and holistic player development has already earned him recognition. JV captain Jed Greer (#26 RB) shared, “Coach DeCosta has been the best coach I’ve ever had. He cares not just about winning games but about us as players. He’s made sure we’re improving and playing at our best. He’s patient with players new to the game and creates plays that suit the team’s strengths. We’re 2-1 right now, and that’s mostly thanks to him. He’s the best coach I’ve ever had, and I believe he’ll be coaching at a top-level program soon.”

JV captain Declan Drury (#23 WR) added, “I like how Coach DeCosta brings energy every day and pushes us to perform at our best. He’s built strong bonds with the players, and that trust has boosted our confidence.”

JV captain Jude Franco (#11 QB) commented, “Coach DeCosta is an effective and caring coach. While other coaches might overlook JV players, he ensures we’re healthy and performing at our best. He’s always positive and makes sure most players get time on the field because he understands JV is about development. He’s an encouraging and supportive coach.”

With his leadership, passion, and commitment to player development, Jordon DeCosta is quickly establishing himself as a rising star in New Jersey high school football.

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