Photos: NP Marks Centennial Park 10th Anniversary with Celebration

Despite the heat, numerous residents came together at Centennial Park on Thursday night for the park's 10th Anniversary Celebration.

In front of the Alan M. Augustine Pavilion, former Mayor Al Morgan, who played a leading role in the park's creation in 2002, acknowledged all of the volunteers who made the park what it is today, calling each one up, one-by-one, to be recognized for their efforts.

Council President Michael Gennaro told community members about a new plaque, mounted on a large stone, which is now standing next to the 9/11 Monument in the park. Gennaro said the plaque contains many symbols that remind us of Sept. 11, 2001. Morgan unveiled the plaque at the end of Gennaro's speech.

Dr. Bob Robinson introduced another plaque to community members, mounted to the front of the pavilion, which serves as a tribute to all of the volunteers who turned Morgan's vision of Centennial Park from a dream into a reality.

Congressman Leonard Lance and Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz were also in attendance. Both Lance and Munoz made a few remarks about Centennial Park and what it means for the community of New Providence.

The Tim Gillis Band, which provided the entertainment for the evening.

The celebration was put together by a committee, which included:

• Dr. Bob Robinson, Chair
• Jimmy Vardas
• Doug Marvin
• Cindy Reis
• Michelle Brugger
• Al Morgan
• Bill Hoefling
• Gary Kapner
• Ted Kapuscinski
• Al Elefante
• Ken DeRoberts
• Joe and Pam Steiner

Refreshments were provided by: , , , , Bacci Brick Oven Pizza, , , NP Fuel, and .

Volunteer chefs included: Bonnie Vohden, Ken DeRoberts, Bill Hoefling and Gary Kapner, assisted by Barbara and Doug Marvin.

The Mayor, Council, Borough staff, Recreation Department, Police Department and Public Works Department also supported the event.

Corporate Sponsors included: , , , Zita's Homemade Ice Cream and Italian Ice, Prestige Diner, , Dr. Bob Robinson and The New Providence Downtown Improvement District.