Verona Police Chief Christopher Kiernan and Cedar Grove Police Chief Joseph Cirasa have been colleagues for many years as they ascended through the ranks of their respective departments. Now, they have entered into a friendly rivalry for charity as Verona Hillbillies take on the Cedar Grove Panthers this Friday night, October 25, at 7 p.m. in Cedar Grove.
Both towns have a rich history of tremendous student athletes and support for academic and athletic programs, and the police chiefs are hoping to rally their fan bases behind local charities in the spirit of friendly competition. And it’s not just football this week: The boy’s soccer teams and girls volleyball team of both towns will also collide in matches this week.
Cedar Grove Chief Cirasa has requested donations to benefit the educational fund for the children of Cedar Grove resident Allison Walton, who recently passed away after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Residents can drop off checks made payable to “Walton Children Education Fund” in a sealed envelope at the Cedar Grove Police Desk 24 hours a day through Saturday.
Verona Chief Kiernan has requested donations be made to Verona Fights Hunger Week which is an annual appeal from the Junior Woman’s Club of Verona. Donations of non-perishable food items can be dropped off at Verona Police Desk 24 hours a day through Saturday.
In addition to supporting these charity organizations, both chiefs have agreed to a friendly reward to each department’s members at a designated local restaurant.
