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Acupuncture in South Plainfield, NJ
It's hard to deny that we live in a world where health issues seem to be increasingly common. From allergies that baffle doctors to chronic pain that never seems to go away, it's no secret that many individuals struggle to maintain good health. Respiratory issues, reproductive complications, and other conditions add to the mix, making it clear that we're all susceptible to some kind of malady.
Unfortunately, many modern doctors still believe that throwing pills at the problem or scheduling surgery is the best way to provide long-term relief. While certain serious conditions can warrant such extreme treatments, a large percentage of Americans are looking for something far less harmful and much more holistic. They're looking high and low for a reliable, well-studied solution that doesn't require time off work or sketchy pain medications.
At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, one of the most effective and exciting treatments we've seen work for such patients is acupuncture in South Plainfield, NJ - a modern take on an ancient treatment that has been used for thousands of years.
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If you're new to holistic healing, acupuncture may seem intimidating. You might be wondering how needles pressed into your skin could possibly make you feel better. Wouldn't someone pushing a needle into your back be painful? As it turns out, acupuncture is far from painful and is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after treatments for chronic pain and for regulating issues relating to:
- Digestion
- Hormones
- Breathing
- Muscles
- Nerves & Brain
- Sex & Libido
- Body Circulation
- Organs & Heart
In fact, acupuncture has been studied and practiced for over 2,500 years and, more recently, has been researched and supported by many scientific studies. While acupuncture may not be a "miracle" treatment for every type of pain or condition, it has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of issues, from depression and allergies to morning sickness and cramps.
Covering the Basics of Acupuncture in South Plainfield, NJ
Acupuncture is a therapy in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that aims to balance the body's energy, called qi, which flows through pathways called meridians. This balance is crucial for overall wellness, as disruptions to qi can lead to health concerns. According to TCM, inserting small stainless-steel needles into specific points called acupoints along the meridians can help rebalance the flow of qi and restore overall health.
These acupoints are believed to release certain chemicals when stimulated, which can trigger an immune response and promote physiological homeostasis. Recent research suggests that this therapy may help alleviate symptoms of various health ailments.
In fact, the National Institute of Health conducted a survey on complementary health approaches, revealing that acupuncture usage in the United States has increased by 50 percent between 2002 and 2012. As of 2012, 6.4 percent of American adults have reported using acupuncture as a form of treatment.
Is Acupuncture in South Plainfield, NJ Actually Legit?
One of the most common questions from new patients interested in acupuncture typically revolves around whether it really works or whether it's all "new age" malarky. We get it - for most folks, the thought of inserting stainless-steel needles into one's back, arms, or neck sounds loony. However, with the ever-increasing popularity of acupuncture in New Jersey and other locations, numerous studies centering on acupuncture's effectiveness have taken place.
Extensive research has been conducted on the effectiveness of acupuncture for various conditions. A February 2022 analysis published in the BMJ, which evaluated over 2,000 scientific reviews of acupuncture therapies, revealed that acupuncture's efficacy is strongest for:
- Neck Pain
- Back Pain
- Post-Stroke Aphasia
- Muscle Pain
- Lactation Issues
- Lower Back Pain
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Vascular Dementia
- More
Additionally, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), acupuncture is most effective for pain relief in cases of chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis, lower back pain, and tension headaches. Additionally, a review of 11 clinical trials found that acupuncture may also alleviate symptoms associated with cancer treatment, as noted by the NIH.
What Happens During an Acupuncture Session at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness?
When meeting with your acupuncturist for the first time, they will discuss your condition with you before conducting a physical examination to identify areas of your body that might respond to acupuncture. The needles used in acupuncture are incredibly thin, sterile, and disposable, with your acupuncturist inserting them at different depths ranging from a fraction of an inch to several inches.
Acupuncture needles are less painful than medical needles used for vaccines or blood draws. This is because acupuncture needles are thinner and solid, not hollow. During the treatment, you may experience some muscle sensations like dull aches or tingling.
Your practitioner will ask you to report any deep heaviness or numbness, which are positive signs that the treatment is working. Depending on the condition you're treating and the supplemental treatments you're undergoing, like physical therapy, acupuncture needles will remain in place for several minutes or up to 30 minutes.
Once your first acupuncture treatment is finished, it's normal to feel extra relaxed and calm. For that reason, some patients like to arrange for a ride home after their first or second session. With that said, you shouldn't experience much pain at all, and it's quite possible for you to return to work after acupuncture.
How Many Treatments Until Acupuncture Works?
This is another common question that we get at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness. The simple answer is, "It depends." While we understand that that's not a satisfying answer for some, it's important to understand that every patient is different. Everyone has different bodies and, by proxy, different bodily conditions and issues that need to be addressed.
During your initial consultation at our office, your licensed acupuncturist will go over your needs and goals as it relates to acupuncture therapy. Once your therapist has a good sense of the scope of your needs, they can give you a loose idea of how many sessions you'll need.
Generally speaking, most patients have appointments once a week. Others may require more or less frequent sessions. It's important to note that the full benefits of acupuncture may not be immediately evident after the first or even the second session. It's common for normal patients to undergo up to five treatments to realize the full benefits of acupuncture.
What Conditions Are Treated with Acupuncture in South Plainfield, NJ?
There's no question that acupuncture is more popular than ever as a non-invasive, non-addictive way to reclaim balance and well-being. But what types of conditions can this traditional therapy help alleviate in the modern world? Advances in acupuncture techniques and applications have resulted in some very promising benefits.
Relief from Chronic Pain
Did you know that regular acupuncture treatments can help reduce the pain associated with osteoarthritis? In May 2017, a meta-analysis was published, which studied approximately 18,000 patients with chronic pain, such as low back, neck, and shoulder pain, knee OA, and headache or migraine. The analysis found that the benefits of acupuncture therapy in reducing pain lasted for more than 12 months.
That's wonderful news for athletes and other people who push their bodies daily to accomplish goals or bring home money for rent and bills. In fact, many medical experts consider acupuncture as a viable option for managing chronic pain in conjunction with traditional methods like physical therapy and chiropractic care. The idea behind this approach is that acupuncture may trigger the body's natural healing response to alleviate pain.
When a licensed acupuncturist in New Jersey inserts an acupuncture needle, it penetrates your fascia, a connective tissue that wraps around your organs and muscles. Like a slight tickle on your arm, your body realizes that something is happening and responds by delivering lymph fluid, blood, and other important nutrients to speed up healing in affected areas like your knees, back, neck, joints, and more.
Migraine Headache Relief
If you're like other people who suffer from migraines, you know that once one of them hits, it can be next to impossible to function properly throughout the day. Fortunately, acupuncture in South Plainfield, NJ may be a viable solution if you have to endure migraines often.
A study conducted in 2009 by the Center for Complementary Medicine at the University of Munich analyzed 11 studies involving 2,137 patients who received acupuncture treatment for chronic tension-type headaches. The researchers concluded that acupuncture could be an effective non-pharmacological solution for frequent headaches.
The study compared the effects of acupuncture sessions with sham acupuncture and no treatment at all. Both groups that received acupuncture treatment, whether needles were placed randomly or strategically, reported a reduction in headache symptoms, while the control group reported no change. The group that received real acupuncture treatment also reported a decrease in the number of headache days and intensity of pain in a follow-up survey.
Improved Sleep
For individuals who struggle with insomnia and other sleep disturbances, acupuncture is a promising therapy. Although sedatives are commonly prescribed for insomnia, long-term use can lead to negative side effects such as dependence and excessive drowsiness.
A study conducted on 72 participants and published in Sleep Medicine in 2017 found that individuals who received acupuncture three times a week for four weeks experienced significant improvements in sleep quality and anxiety compared to those who received sham acupuncture.
Similarly, a review of 30 randomized, controlled trials found that acupuncture was more effective in improving sleep quality and daytime functioning than sham acupuncture.
Better Recovery from Surgery
While many patients choose acupuncture as a way to avoid surgery altogether, those who need surgery also use it for improved recovery. Because, at the end of the day, recovering from surgery is no easy feat. Patients may experience various symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, pain around the incision, restlessness, sleep troubles, constipation, and sore throat.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, healthcare providers may use acupuncture as a way to alleviate some of these symptoms and help with healing. A study published in Integrative Cancer Therapies in January 2017 involving 172 participants found that patients who received acupuncture after surgery reported significant improvements in sleep, anxiety, pain, fatigue, nausea, and drowsiness.
The Surprising Benefits of Supplementing Physical Therapy with Acupuncture
Did you know that supplementing physical therapy with acupuncture and vice versa can have profoundly beneficial effects for patients in New Jersey and across the country? If you're like most, chances are you didn't.
The truth is that acupuncture and physical therapy have both been proven effective in reducing pain and inflammation. While many people view them as separate methods, combining the two modalities can produce a synergistic effect that enhances pain relief and delivers long-lasting benefits to patients.
Physical therapists work with patients of all ages and abilities, from children to elderly adults, to help them overcome physical limitations and improve their quality of life. At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, our physical therapists help treat a wide range of conditions, from neck pain and spinal cord injuries to back pain and arthritis.
To effectively reduce pain and treat tissue injury, a combination of acupuncture and physical therapy can be very helpful. Acupuncture helps to reduce inflammation and release muscle tightness and trigger points, allowing the patient to better receive manual therapy or exercise-based physical therapy techniques. In doing so, acupuncture can actually create a window of time that allows your body to respond better to other treatments at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, such as physical therapy and chiropractic care.
There are many benefits of combining physical therapy with acupuncture in South Plainfield, NJ, including the following:
- Increased Range of Motion
- More Effective Long-Term Pain Relief
- Enhanced Tissue Repair & Healing
- Better Response to Physical Therapy Due to Pain Reduction
- Less of a Need for Pain Medications
- Boosted Mood & Energy
- Better Quality of Life Overall
You may be wondering, "Are there any studies showing these benefits?" As it turns out, there are many. One such study, published on the NIH's website, was conducted on patients suffering from frozen shoulder.
Patients who received acupuncture experienced a significant reduction in pain, while those who underwent physical therapy saw an improvement in range of motion. However, the best outcome was observed in patients who received a combination of both treatments, with reduced pain, increased their range of motion, and improved quality of life. This study highlights the potential benefits of using acupuncture and physical therapy as complementary treatments for frozen shoulder.
It makes sense, then, that people from all walks of life are combining acupuncture with chiropractic treatments at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, including:
- Professional Athletes
- Football Players
- Soccer Players
- Baseball Players
- Construction Workers
- Landscapers
- Accountants and People Working Office Jobs
- Public Officials
- Police Officers
- More
Combining Acupuncture with Chiropractic Care for Pain Relief and Wellness
At New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, our doctors, practitioners, occupational therapists, and physical therapist specialize in a range of therapies and treatments. Much like physical therapy and acupuncture, combining chiropractic care with acupuncture therapy gives patients a new way to reclaim their mobility, reduce chronic pain, and maintain a healthy quality of life.
Chiropractic care and acupuncture in South Plainfield, NJ are natural healing practices that don't rely on drugs to improve the body's health. They focus on correcting imbalances in the body's structural and supportive systems, promoting natural healing, and ultimately leading to better health. These practices have a proven track record of helping patients improve their quality of life and overcome physical difficulties.
What are the Benefits of Using Acupuncture with Chiropractic Care?
Integrating chiropractic and acupuncture as a dual-modality treatment offers the most efficient solution for removing blockages from the body, promoting balance, and accelerating healing. Rather than using these treatments sequentially, a combined approach allows for maximum benefits at one time.
Chiropractic targets subluxations in the nervous system through manual adjustments, facilitating the central nervous system to promote healing, while acupuncture removes blockages that may hinder the body's internal balance. Together, these treatments work synergistically to optimize energy flow and restore harmony in the body.
What Conditions Can Be Treated with Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care?
When our physical well-being becomes imbalanced, and our innate healing mechanisms are compromised, illnesses can manifest. The integration of acupuncture and chiropractic practices can effectively address a wide range of health conditions that they individually target, such as:
- Sports Injuries
- Headaches
- Sciatica
- Lower Back Pain
- Neck Pain
- Insomnia
- Chronic Conditions Like Diabetes
- More
Curious if combining chiropractic care or physical therapy with acupuncture is right for your body? The best way to find out is to make an appointment at our sports rehab clinic in New Jersey. Once our team of medical professionals has a chance to evaluate your conditions, we can explore the best options to provide the most relief in the shortest amount of time possible.
The Premier Choice for Professional Acupuncture in South Plainfield, NJ
New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness consists of a team of athletic trainers, chiropractors, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other professionals. We're very proud and passionate about caring for our patients, many of whom are suffering from debilitating conditions like back and neck pain, plantar fasciitis, sports-related injuries, and more. If you're trying to get on the road to pain relief and recovery, acupuncture may be the non-surgical solution you need to reclaim your life. Contact our office today to learn whether this exciting treatment is right for you.
732-526-2497
Latest News in South Plainfield, NJ
Commissioner of Education Affirms Decision in Ethics Violations Case Filed Against Former South Plainfield BOE Member
Victoria Carusohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/south-plainfield/sections/education/articles/commissioner-of-education-affirms-decision-in-ethics-violations-case-filed-against-former-south-plainfield-boe-member
SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ – At a meeting held Nov. 15, South Plainfield Board of Education (SPBOE) President Pio Pennisi released a statement pertaining to one of the ethics complaints filed by members against former colleague Debbie Boyle.In late 2021, Pennisi along with current members Keith Both, Tom Cassio, Doug Chapman, Jim Giannakis, and Bill Seesselberg filed a ...
SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ – At a meeting held Nov. 15, South Plainfield Board of Education (SPBOE) President Pio Pennisi released a statement pertaining to one of the ethics complaints filed by members against former colleague Debbie Boyle.
In late 2021, Pennisi along with current members Keith Both, Tom Cassio, Doug Chapman, Jim Giannakis, and Bill Seesselberg filed a complaint with the School Ethics Commission on the grounds that Boyle violated several 'codes' in the Code of Ethics for Board Members. They accused their former colleague of improperly criticizing the superintendent in front of staff members and other board members as well as reaching out to staff members directly despite administration denying her initial requests.
In July 2023, an administrative law judge ruled that Boyle acted beyond the scope of her board duties with the School Ethics Commission in late September reviewing the case and issuing a
that agreed with the majority of the judge’s findings.
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Both the judge and the commission recommended censure, the highest penalty that can be issued to someone no longer on the BOE. Additionally, earlier this month, the New Jersey State Commissioner of Education affirmed the ruling; once uploaded to the Department of Education website, it can be viewed under the ‘November’ tab on the ‘2023 Decisions’ page.
“We filed this case because we believed that Ms. Boyle’s actions were serious violations of her ethical responsibilities, were outside of her board duties, and had the potential to compromise the board,” Pennisi stated during the November SPBOE meeting. “We did this on our own, did not use an attorney and the only district money expended was for Ms. Boyle’s defense as required by statute ... The judge, ethics commission, and commissioner of education obviously agreed with us.”
Pennisi’s statement goes on to add, “As a long-time board member, Ms. Boyle should have been fully aware of her ethical responsibilities. It is unfortunate that it took this proceeding to show that she has no regard for those responsibilities when it comes to her board membership, and upholding the ethics code, which all board members sign.”
A second ethics violation complaint filed by the SPBOE in July 2022 is still pending. In that complaint, signed by eight of the nine current sitting members, the board alleges that Boyle shared confidential documents pertaining to an ongoing lawsuit filed by former principal Robert Diehl against the superintendent and BOE.
The 64th Annual South Plainfield Labor Day Parade
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/south-plainfield/sections/arts-and-entertainment/articles/the-64th-annual-south-plainfield-labor-day-parade
SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ - On Monday, September 4, 2023, New Jersey’s largest and most well-attended traditional Labor Day Parade and Festivities return to South Plainfield! The parade kicks off at 12 Noon from the PAL building on Maple Avenue, marching us through the decades, concluding at the South Plainfield Middle School. The South Plainfield Celebration Committee will host our Labor Day Celebration at Veterans’ Field located behind the Senior Center. Come join us at the conclusion of the parade for food...
SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ - On Monday, September 4, 2023, New Jersey’s largest and most well-attended traditional Labor Day Parade and Festivities return to South Plainfield! The parade kicks off at 12 Noon from the PAL building on Maple Avenue, marching us through the decades, concluding at the South Plainfield Middle School. The South Plainfield Celebration Committee will host our Labor Day Celebration at Veterans’ Field located behind the Senior Center. Come join us at the conclusion of the parade for food and drink vendors, arts and crafts, novelties, games and so much more!
Crowd favorite DJ Troy will once again be on stage, along with some special guests at Veterans Park. Join us after the parade on Veteran’s Park for some fabulous food vendors, activities, entertainment and music. The Festivities will conclude around 6pm.
Later in the day, starting at 7pm, DJ Troy will return and once again bring the music, energy and excitement to the gathering families in Spring Lake Park awaiting the annual Labor Day Firework display. This year’s magnificent fireworks program will be provided by “Garden State Fireworks'' and will begin at or around 8:30 pm with fabulous viewing available from Spring Lake Park.
The theme of this year’s Labor Day Parade is “Marching Through the Decades”. Our theme was chosen in a contest held earlier with the students at Grant School and South Plainfield Middle School, with the winning entry submitted by Grant School’s Juliana Altomare. Our Grand Marshall this year will be Tom Scalera. Tom has served this community for decades as our Fire Chief, the force behind Project Santa and is well-deserved to proudly lead this year’s 64th Annual Labor Day Parade.
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So grab those poodle skirts, unpack those bell-bottoms, slick back your hair or tease it high as we March Through the Decades!. The parade will consist of lots of talent including bands, stilt walkers, unicyclists, juggler, and antique vehicles, to name a few. Please join us on Labor Day as we parade through the decades.
***Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook (@splaborday) for all the up-to-date announcements about the event.**
The 2023 Public Celebrations Committee members: Amy Bengivenga/Co-Chairperson, Kelly Daley/Co-Chairperson, Bill Seesselberg, Scott Miller, Kristy Lowrie, Jen Ratti, Cathy Herman, Rachel Henderson, Stephanie Wolak, and Gina D’Urso. Borough Council Liaison is Councilwoman Christine Faustini.
Westwood football enjoys dream start vs. South Plainfield in Jim Grasso Kickoff Classic
Greg Tartagliahttps://www.northjersey.com/story/sports/high-school/football/2023/08/25/nj-football-westwood-enjoys-dream-start-against-south-plainfield/70660444007/
TWP. OF WASHINGTON — Aidan Carrazana took off running and started a trend.The Westwood senior broke free for a 73-yard touchdown on the first play of Friday's Jim Grasso Kickoff Classic game against South Plainfield. The next two Cardinals to get their hands on the ball, Joe and Steve Klein, also scored immediately.By the time the first quarter was over, the host team had outgained the Tigers on offense, 255 to minus-24, en route to a resounding 44-12 victory."I knew we could do it, but I didn't...
TWP. OF WASHINGTON — Aidan Carrazana took off running and started a trend.
The Westwood senior broke free for a 73-yard touchdown on the first play of Friday's Jim Grasso Kickoff Classic game against South Plainfield. The next two Cardinals to get their hands on the ball, Joe and Steve Klein, also scored immediately.
By the time the first quarter was over, the host team had outgained the Tigers on offense, 255 to minus-24, en route to a resounding 44-12 victory.
"I knew we could do it, but I didn't know we could do it in that fashion," Carrazana said. "We were just doing our thing. That's what's expected, and that's what we did."
What it means
Both Westwood and South Plainfield opened the 2022 season with long win streaks. The Bergen County side went 11-1 and reached the North Group 2 regional final, while the Tigers were knocked out in the Group 3 playoffs after an 8-0 start.
Foreseeing the Cardinals' thorough dominance, though? Few could have dreamed up their 37-0 first quarter.
"We thought it was a great game to schedule for us, and we prepared for it, so was I shocked? A little bit," first-year Westwood coach Bobby Guy said. "They play really tough, physical football. But I think we have a pretty special team right now."
The Cardinals capped a 3-0 day for Bergen/Passaic Counties at the inaugural Grasso Classic, after West Milford blanked Nutley in the opener, 37-0, and Wood-Ridge topped Wallkill Valley in the second game of the tripleheader.
Anatomy of a rout
After Carrazana took a screen pass from quarterback Robbie Carcich to get things going for Westwood (1-0), the Tigers went three-and-out and punted. Carcich then found Joe Klein open on a deep post for a 54-yard score.
The next South Plainfield drive ended with Thomas Bussanich blocking a punt, which Steve Klein plucked out of the air and returned for a 9-yard TD.
Carcich added a 64-yard touchdown run to cap a three-play drive. Luke Biello tackled a Tiger in the end zone for a safety. Finally, the longest drive by the Cardinals' first team – four plays – ended with Carcich's 4-yard scoring pass to Carrazana, before reserves came on early in the second quarter.
"Our offense is really explosive," Guy said after the unit found the end zone four times on the first nine plays. "Just a tremendous job by our offensive line, our quarterback and all the skill guys that come with."
Game balls
► Carcich completed all five of his pass attempts for 145 yards and 3 touchdowns. Carrazana and Joe Klein combined for 3 catches, 131 yards and 3 TDs.
► South Plainfield senior Patrick Smith ended up with 13 carries for 102 yards and a TD and averaged 23 yards on 3 kick returns.
They said it
"Bergen County is, I think, one of the best counties for football. But again, we see all these teams in the playoffs now. Essex County had it rolling against us last year [Caldwell beat the Cardinals in the state semis]. We have a lot of good competition all around New Jersey... [Friday], we did a great job of getting things done." —Guy
South Plainfield Summer Drama Workshop to Present ‘Oliver!’
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/south-plainfield/sections/arts-and-entertainment/articles/south-plainfield-summer-drama-workshop-to-present-oliver
Photo Credit: Victoria CarusoTickets for this year's production are currently on sale and will be also be available at the door prior to all performances. Photo Credit: courtesy of SPSDWThe musicians with Orchestra Director Marisa Minogue. Photo Credit: Victoria CarusoSouth Plainfield Summer Drama Workshop's production crew with Stage Manager Gabriel Soto. Photo Credit: Victoria CarusoPhoto Credit: Victoria CarusoThe cast of South Plainfield Summer ...
Photo Credit: Victoria Caruso
Tickets for this year's production are currently on sale and will be also be available at the door prior to all performances. Photo Credit: courtesy of SPSDW
The musicians with Orchestra Director Marisa Minogue. Photo Credit: Victoria Caruso
South Plainfield Summer Drama Workshop's production crew with Stage Manager Gabriel Soto. Photo Credit: Victoria Caruso
Photo Credit: Victoria Caruso
The cast of South Plainfield Summer Drama Workshop's 2023 production of Oliver! Photo Credit: Victoria Caruso
By Victoria Caruso
PublishedJuly 21, 2023 at 12:00 AM
SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ – Dozens of students will take the stage next month for three performances of Lionel Bart’s Oliver!, a musical loosely based on the Charles Dicken’s classic Oliver Twist.
Presented by the South Plainfield Summer Drama Workshop (SPSDW), in partnership with the South Plainfield Recreation Department, this year’s production will take place Aug. 4 through Aug. 6 at the high school and feature a cast of rising sixth graders through recent high school graduates who hail from the borough and the surrounding communities.
“We are excited to bring the SPSDW back to the stage in the high school,” said Bill Seesselberg, president of the SPSDW board and producer of this year’s show. “The students on stage and behind the scenes have been working hard to bring this memorable musical to life in this beautifully renovated venue.”
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Oliver! is a coming-of-age musical set in 1830s Victorian England that focuses on a young orphaned boy searching for a home, a family, and love. The production is licensed by Music Theatre International and includes such songs as “Food, Glorious Food,” “Consider Yourself,” and “Where is Love.”
Auditions for this year’s production took place throughout June and over the weeks leading up to the show cast members are rehearsing four nights a week, learning lines, lyrics, choreography, and blocking.
For each production, participants work with professional and trained staff, including many who were involved with SPSDW themselves. In addition to Seesselberg, one of SPSDW’s founders, the 2023 production of Oliver! will feature residents and SPSDW alumni Sarah Gwiazda as choreographer, Bob Seesselberg as lighting designer, and Joan Stasio as director, to name a few.
“My mother told me, my brother and my sister to join the summer drama program almost 50 years ago. She may have just wanted us to get out of the house for the summer, but it started a passion in me for musical theater that has lasted my whole life,” said Stasio who, over the years, served on the SPSDW board, did everything from costumes to props to music, and put all that she learned to use with the Grant School Drama Club where she put began putting on junior musicals in 2003.
“I would have never been able to do what I did at Grant School if it weren’t for the South Plainfield Summer Drama Workshop program, and for that I am so grateful,” said Stasio, who retired last spring following a 38-year career as a general music teacher and orchestra, band and choral director with the South Plainfield School District.
“I am so blessed to be directing this year and to help bring the program back to this group of amazing young actors, singers and dancers. I lost my Mother earlier this year, so I am honored to dedicate this year’s show in her memory. Thanks, mom!”
The show also includes a production crew, led by Stage Manager Gabriel Soto, that has been working with Set Designer and Technical Director Matt Nickles, Additionally, the show will feature an ensemble of talented musicians, led by Orchestra Director Marissa Minogue, who will be performing live at each of the shows.
“The Summer Drama Workshop is more than just putting on a show; it’s all about everything to do with the performing arts. It not only focuses on acting, singing, and dancing, but also teaches public speaking, self-confidence, and technical aspects while using the show’s production as its structure,” said Seesselberg.
Oliver! will take place in the newly renovated auditorium of South Plainfield High School at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 4 and Saturday, Aug. 5 and2 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 6.
Tickets may be purchased in advance at South Plainfield High School (door #7 next to the greenhouse) Monday through Thursday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. with a special buy-one-get-one half-price ticket promotion running now through Aug 2. The cost is $15 per ticket for adults; $10 for seniors/students; buy-one-get-one half tickets must be the same price point. Full price tickets will also be sold at the door prior to each show.
For more information, to purchase tickets, make a donation, or place an ad in the 2023 production program, email spsummerdrama@gmail.com.
Meet the Cast: Leonardo Martinez as Oliver; Sophia Miller as Fagin; Brody Rinaldi as Artful Dodger; Calvin Tran as Bill Sykes; Brooke “Chris” Ridley as Nancy; Ava Faustini as Bet; Diego “Battery” Amariles Salazar as Mr. Bumble; Allison Buchanan as Mrs. Corney; Jared DeSagun-Pineda as Mr. Brownlow; Matthew Clarke as Mr. Sowerberry; Emily Pena as Mrs. Sowerberry; Lilliana Davis as Charlotte; Jules Pena as Noah Claypoole; Eddie Montonez as Mr. Grimwig; Samantha Rush as Mrs. Bedwin; Jayla May as Old Sally; and Jayce Diaz as Charley.
Ensemble includes Brianna Bodenschatz, Liana Carnarte, Ava Charnecky, Elaina Competello, Isabella D’Ambrosio, Mia Sophia Estrada, Sophie Farfan, Mackensie Lillia, Danielle Richter, and Lia Schwalje
Meet the Musicians: Blake Greco, Thomas O’Brien, Kevin O’Brien, Carter Patterson and others
Meet the Crew: Christopher Amariles, Logan Celentano, Brady Dillon, Dean Hassan, Jemar May, Melanie Obligacion, Jullian Roman, Matthew Williams, and Hunter Winsmann
Meet the Staff: Joan Stasio, director/vocals; Bill Seesselberg, producer; Sarah Gwiazda, choreographer; Winalis Bruce and Emma Giordano, assistant directors; Marisa Minogue, orchestra director; Matt Nickles, tech director; Gabriel Soto, stage manager; Chris Seesselberg, Props; Jake Malhosky, sound designer; Bob Seesselberg, lighting designer; and Luanne Severini; costume designer.
Meet the SPSDW Board: The SPSDW, run by all volunteer board that, for 2023, includes Bill Seesselberg, president; Chris Seesselberg, vice president; Scott Miller, treasurer; Susan Gwiazda, secretary; and Terry Reed, trustee. New members are welcome.
About South Plainfield Summer Drama Workshop
Established in 1972, SPSDW is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization run by a volunteer board. The program is open to any South Plainfield resident student of required age regardless of the school they attend; when needed, students from other towns have been accepted. The program, which is tuition-based to help offset materials, play rights, costumes, and other operating expenses, depends on support from parent volunteers and the community and, this year, SPSDW has partnered with the South Plainfield Recreation Department.
Over the past five decades, SPSDW has presented dozens of productions, including The Wizard of Oz, Footloose, Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Music Man, Guys and Dolls, The Drowsy Chaperone, and last year’s production of High School Musical to name a few. Additionally, Oliver! was the initial production of the revamped program in 1973 and this year’s production marks the 50th anniversary of the start of SPSDW in its all-inclusive form.
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Hispanic Heritage Month 2023 Being Celebrated in South Plainfield
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/south-plainfield/sections/religions-and-spirituality/articles/hispanic-heritage-month-2023-being-celebrated-in-south-plainfield
Jailene Betancourt of the South Plainfield Public Library and South Plainfield School District Spanish teachers Paula Rendon and Lizbet Arriola accept the Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation made by Mayor Matt Anesh. Photo Credit: Victoria CarusoPhoto Credit: Borough of South PlainfieldJailene Betancourt of the South Plainfield Public Library and South Plainfield School District Spanish teachers Paula Rendon and Lizbet Arriola accept the Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation made by Mayor Matt Anesh. ...
Jailene Betancourt of the South Plainfield Public Library and South Plainfield School District Spanish teachers Paula Rendon and Lizbet Arriola accept the Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation made by Mayor Matt Anesh. Photo Credit: Victoria Caruso
Photo Credit: Borough of South Plainfield
Jailene Betancourt of the South Plainfield Public Library and South Plainfield School District Spanish teachers Paula Rendon and Lizbet Arriola accept the Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation made by Mayor Matt Anesh. Photo Credit: Victoria Caruso
By Victoria Caruso
SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ – At a South Plainfield Borough Council meeting held Oct. 2, Mayor Matt Anesh officially proclaimed October 2023 as 'Hispanic Heritage Month' in the municipality and encouraged 'residents to join in recognizing the contributions made by people of Hispanic ancestry who have had a profound influence.'
"Hispanics have enhanced and shaped our national charter with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multi-ethnic and multicultural customs of their communities [and have] had a profound and positive influence on our country through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and services," Anesh stated in his proclamation.
The theme of Hispanic Heritage Month 2023 is ‘Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, & Progress in America,’ which emphasizes the substantial influence of Hispanic individuals on the economic, political, and social advancement of the United States.
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"The cultural, educational, and political influences of Hispanics in the Borough of South Plainfield can be seen and appreciated in all aspects of life, as Hispanics continue to be crucial to the cultural, economic, and political growth of our community," states the proclamation.
On hand to accept the proclamation were Jailene Betancourt of the South Plainfield Public Library, along with South Plainfield School District Spanish teachers Lizbet Arriola and Paula Rendon.
Locally, the South Plainfield Public Library is teaming up with district Spanish teachers and students for an outdoor event set to take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 7. It will highlight more than two dozen Hispanic cultures and feature a special outdoor story time as well as music, performances, food, crafts, and more.
* Note: Due to expected inclement weather, the event will now take place at St. Stephen's Orthodox Church, 609 Lane Avenue.
“We would like to invite the community of South Plainfield to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with us this Saturday....” said Arriola, noting that the event will feature performances from Grant and South Plainfield Middle School students and teachers. “We would like to thank Linda Hansen and the amazing staff at the library; they do amazing programs for South Plainfield and I really hope you join us...”
About Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month – also known as Mes de la Herencia Hispana - recognizes the contributions and important presence of Hispanic and Latin Americans in the United States.
The national observation of Hispanic heritage began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson. It was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting September 15 – the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua) – and concluding on Oct. 15 of each year and was enacted into law on Aug. 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.
The month-long celebration begins each year on Sept. 15 – the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua) – and concludes Oct. 15 with Mexico, Chile and Belize also celebrating their independence days during this period.
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