Belleville Resident Wins Prestigious Writing Award in Essex County Contest
Belleville Author Wins Award In County Senior Writing Contest
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The 2026 Essex County Senior Citizen Legacies Writing Contest recognized eight authors, including Belleville's Nanette LaCapra Rotonda, who won for her essay 'An Angel Among Us.' The contest encourages seniors to share impactful life stories, with awards presented at a ceremony in Irvington Park.
- 01Nanette LaCapra Rotonda from Belleville won for her essay 'An Angel Among Us,' honoring her mother Marietta.
- 02Other winners include Linda Russell from Montclair, Ottilie Brechner Bello from Short Hills, and Judyann Affronti from Glen Ridge.
- 03The contest, sponsored by the Essex County Division of Senior Services, aims to inspire seniors to write about their life experiences.
- 04Honorable mentions were awarded to authors from Essex Fells, Bloomfield, and Short Hills, covering diverse themes from personal loss to historical reflections.
- 05The Legacies Writing Contest has been a local tradition since 1996, continuing after the national contest ended in 1998.
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The 2026 Essex County Senior Citizen Legacies Writing Contest recently celebrated eight authors for their compelling essays reflecting on significant life experiences. Among the winners was Belleville resident Nanette LaCapra Rotonda, who wrote 'An Angel Among Us,' a tribute to her mother Marietta and her remarkable life. Other winners included Linda Russell from Montclair, who penned 'Living My Dreams,' Ottilie Brechner Bello from Short Hills with 'A Love Story for the Age(d),' and Judyann Affronti from Glen Ridge, who wrote 'Class of 1967: An Age of Innocence.' Honorable mentions recognized works by authors such as Carole Sullivan and Alisa A. Piacenza. The awards ceremony took place at the Bilal Beasley Community Center in Irvington Park, highlighting the importance of storytelling among seniors. Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo Jr. emphasized the emotional depth and historical perspectives shared through these narratives. The contest, part of a local initiative since 1996, encourages seniors to express their life stories, fostering community engagement and appreciation for their experiences.
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The contest fosters a sense of community among seniors in Essex County by encouraging them to share their life stories.
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