On Friday, October 6th, NESF celebrated its 29th year with its Annual Board of Directors Meeting.

Rev. Dr. Walter L. Parrish, III of Union Baptist Church in Montclair graciously performed our opening invocation.

Keynote speaker Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo spoke of the longstanding relationship that the county has had with NESF and his plans to continue that relationship into the future.

The Prudential Foundation was presented with the "Annette O'Flaherty Award" for its tireless support of social services in Essex County and for its unflagging support of NESF throughout the years.

Michelle Lee, Group Retail Banking Executive, Eastern Banking Region, Wachovia, was welcomed as a new member of the NESF Board of Directors.

Ms. Cynthia Saunders graciously spoke to those attending about the support and assistance she received from NESF when she and her family relocated to the area following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.

NESF honored its loyal employees for their years of service.  Nicole Rogers and James S. Tillery for 7 years of service, Gail Hawkins, Erwin Lawson and Rhonda Thom for 5 years of service.

To wrap it all up, NESF launched its new and improved web site.

Our sincerest thanks to Whole Foods Markets in Montclair and The Robert Treat Hotel for providing the refreshments and to Ms. Evelyn Graham for providing the delicious deserts.