Livingston news

BASKETBALL TEAM WINS TWO: On Thursday, December 14, the Livingston High School boys’ basketball team defeated the West Caldwell Tech Eagles, 46-39, during their home opener. They next traveled to West Orange to defeat the Mountaineers, 43-31, on Saturday, December 16. Above, left, Lancer Zach Smith drives through two West Caldwell Tech defenders to score for Livingston. At right, Lancer guard Luke McNichol, #55, sinks a foul shot against West Caldwell Tech. Don Schwartz Photos

Phyllis loved the fact that she was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, so much, that even in her last week of life, said she wished she could be either there or in heaven. She was a devoted wife and mother of two children. She and her husband, Franklin, adopted them after they moved to Livingston, NJ.

Throughout her lifetime, she embraced her Judaism, as she sprinkled unconditioned love and acceptence everywhere she went, regardless of the nationality, political affiliation, or religion of the person she was with.

It didn’t matter if you were related to Phyllis or not, she would become your biggest cheerleader; calling out the greatness she was able to see inside of you. It’s no wonder so many lovingly called her Nana!

On Friday, December 15, Suzette Joseph, of Livingston, died at the age of 95.

Mrs. Joseph was born and raised in Acul-Du-Nord, Haiti, and lived in Brooklyn and Queens, NewYork, before settling in Livingston, in 1967.

She was an elementary school teacher before retiring.

Mrs. Joseph is predeceased by her husband, Michelet. She is survived by her children, Albert, Frederique, and Lemoine; her four grandchildren; and sisters, Therese and Deliverance.

Philip Julius Solondz, father, builder, philanthropist, died on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at his home in Boca Raton, Florida. He was 97.

Born in Newark to Polish immigrants Israel and Jenny, he was valedictorian of his Weequahic High School class and later studied civil engineering at M.I.T., with an interlude in the Navy serving at Guam during World War II.

He acted as president of the New Jersey Home Builders Association in 1965.

He was a major donor toTemple Beth Shalom in Livingston, New Jersey, M.I.T., and various Jewish and Zionist philanthropies.

He leaves behind four children, six grandchildren, and one great grandchild.

Jane Buchbinder of Livingston, died on Monday, December 18, at the age of 72. She is survived by her sister, Elizabeth Buchbinder, of Washington, D.C.

A graveside service was held on Wednesday, December 20, at the Mount Lebanon Cemetery in Woodbridge.

Vincent Russo, 82, of Livingston, passed away peacefully at home on December 17, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Born November 26, 1941, and raised in Montclair, he was the oldest child ofAngelo and Mildred (nee DiGeronimo) Russo.

A Dispensing Optician, Vincent was co-owner for many years of DiGeronimo Opticians in Clifton, as well as Gleek and Howard Opticians in Elizabeth from 1974-2003, when he sold the business and subsequently retired.

HOCKEY TEAM DEFEATS VERONA-GLEN RIDGE: On Wednesday, December 13, the Livingston High School Lancer hockey team defeated Verona-Glen Ridge, 3-2, at the Codey Arena. The Lancers were led by two goals from Egor Tarasyuk, #6, and 15 saves made by goalie Andrew Downey. Above, Lancer Dylan Gibbs, #16, wins the opening face-off against Verona-Glen Ridge. At right, Lancer Matthew Zocks, #10, follows a shot for a possible rebound, against Verona-Glen Ridge goalie Jackson Soshnick. Don Schwartz Photos

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and as we continue through this holiday season, we wanted to reflect on some matters that are regularly brought up around this time.

It is well worth a reminder to drive safely this holiday season. As a deterrent to dissuade drunk driving, police departments statewide are expected to add extra enforcement on the roads through New Year’s Day, as part of the annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign. This holiday season, make smart choices, and make sure those around you are doing the same. Sometimes we have to make others’ choices for them, which may cause some friction, but is well worth it in the end.

HOCKEY TEAM WINS OPENER: On Friday, December 8, the Livingston High School varsity hockey team defeated West Essex- Caldwell, 4-1, at the Codey Arena. The Lancer victory was highlighted by a “hat trick,” three goals scored by senior Zach Silva. The first goal of the season was scored by Dylan Gibbs. Lancer goalie Brody Teitelbaum made 16 saves during the game. Above, Lancer Matthew Zocks, #10, hits a slapshot against West Essex-Caldwell. Below, the Lancers celebrate and congratulate Dylan Gibbs on scoring the first goal of the season. Don Schwartz Photos