The Tom Zuppa Civic Association honored six people at their annual end of summer barbecue at Salumeria Ercolano in Jersey City on Saturday, August 24th, boasting an attendance of roughly 175 people.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“We once again proved the good that gets done when community comes together for a common purpose,” Zuppa began in a statement.
“Hundreds of students from Journal Square up to the Heights received backpacks and school supplies to make back to school a little easier and more fun for them and their families. We don’t just talk; we get the job done for our diverse community and this barbecue is just a fun way to bring people together for that purpose.”
The honorees included Imtiaz Syed, a community advocate, who was presented the inaugural Dr. Amer Syed Service Award, honoring the memory of his son, who passed away suddenly in 2023, and had dedicated his medical career to serving others.
Also recognized were Daniel Masoud, a youth leader at St. George and St. Shenouda Coptic Orthodox Church, Jersey City Police Officer Glenda “Iggy” Icabalceta, the North District Community Relations Officer, Jersey City Firefighter Shawn Prince, Jersey City Housing Authority Executive Director Stephen Cea.
Rounding out the awardees was Hamed Elshanawany, a leader of the Al Hoda Islamic Center in the Heights, who organizes outreach events and provides assistance to food insecure individuals throughout the city.
In addition to the awards ceremony, the association hosted senior citizens for free from
Journal Square, Marion, and the Heights.
Additionally, the TZCA co-hosted back-to-school events with Commissioner Bill O’Dea (D-2) and the South Hudson Civic Association for residents of Summit Plaza, Marion Gardens, Hudson Gardens, and the Van Wagenen Apartments, and Community 1st’s giveaway in the Heights.
O’Dea is also a declared mayoral candidate and Zuppa is widely expected to run on his ticket as his Ward C council candidate.
