51°
Vitale – who was born June 9, 1939, in East Rutherford – will be named the organization's "Man of the Year."
After college, Vitale taught at Mark Twain Elementary School in Garfield and coached football and basketball for one season at Garfield High School.
He followed that up with four state sectional championships, two consecutive state championships, and 35 consecutive victories during a seven-year tenure (1964-70) at his alma mater, East Rutherford High School.
Vitale is a member of both the College Basketball Hall of Fame and Basketball Hall of Fame.
The ERCPA is also honoring John "Redd" Palsi, co-owner of Redd's Restaurant and Bar in Carlstadt.
The gala will take place at Il Villagio, 651 Route 17, Carlstadt.
The schedule:
- 6:30 p.m. – Cocktails & hors d’oeuvres
- 7:30 p.m. – Program
- 8 p.m. – Dinner and dancing (music by Joe Caroselli Orchestra)
Proceeds will benefit the Jimmy V Foundation for cancer research, organizers said.
The cost is $250 per person and $2,250 per table (10 people).
For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase tickets, click here.
The ERCPA's mission is to grow community pride in East Rutherford, support local commerce, sponsor community events and local charities, recognize outstanding members of our community, and enjoy getting to know our neighbors, according to its website.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Rutherford and receive free news updates.
