By: Staff
The 10th Annual Mayor’s Ball began as a predictable affair—a glittering pageant of and quiet conversation at Nanina’s In The Park. The evening started with elegance, as guests in formal attire enjoyed the beautifully lit ballroom. 
The atmosphere was electric, and outside, traffic was backed up with people eagerly joining the over 500 attendees, showcasing immense support for Mayor Tony Vauss’s decade of leadership in Irvington.
Before the evening took its historic political turn, Mayor Vauss demonstrated the leadership qualities that have defined his tenure, taking time to surprise and recognize outstanding community members for their exceptional contributions.
In a touching display of genuine appreciation, he presented unexpected Community Service Awards to Cathy Steele, Joseph Sylvain, and Pastor Jerry Smith for their remarkable voluntary contributions to Irvington.
Their efforts in improving quality of life, developing new initiatives, and demonstrating exceptional dedication through volunteer work visibly moved the audience. 
The spontaneous nature of these recognitions made them particularly powerful, conveying authentic appreciation beyond a routine acknowledgment.
Leadership Awards were bestowed upon Faheem Ra’Oof and John Amberg for demonstrating outstanding leadership qualities and making significant positive impacts within the community.
Joe Johnson of Papa John’s received the Business Excellence Award, recognizing his company’s outstanding achievements, innovation, resilience, and positive influence in Irvington. 
These unplanned recognitions highlighted Mayor Vauss’s reputation as an inspirational figure whose actions, character, and achievements motivate others to be their best.
Then, the gala took a historic turn. Mayor Vauss, known for his commitment to community, shed the formal pleasantries, and with a voice that filled the opulent ballroom, delivered not a toast, but a blistering and impassioned endorsement for gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill and her running mate, Dale Caldwell.
The polite applause from the crowd morphed into fervent cheers, and everyone in the room was suddenly on their feet, no longer guests, but a galvanized political base.
What was billed as a black tie, gala just became an impromptu campaign rally for the Sherrill-Caldwell ticket.
The shift occurred midway through the evening when Mayor Vauss deviated from his prepared remarks, delivering a fiery address that energized the attendees.
Guests, expecting a staid social gathering, instead witnessed a remarkable show of political force, with the crowd enthusiastically embracing the vision presented for New Jersey’s future.
A powerful buzz filled the room, an audible hum of excitement growing steadily louder until it became an exhilarating roar.
The energy was palpable, like high voltage zinging through everyone present. The atmosphere was one of visible euphoria—unified chants of “Mikie, Mikie, Mikie” echoed through the venue, a testament to the collective enthusiasm for Sherrill and Caldwell.
“What we’ve built in Irvington is just the beginning,” Mayor Vauss declared, his voice rising above the growing excitement.
“With Mikie and Dale at the helm, we can extend this vision of progress across our entire state. Their leadership represents the future we all deserve.”
The energy in the ballroom surged when hip-hop legends Treach from Naughty by Nature and Do It All Dupree Kelly from Lords of the Underground took the stage, transforming the formal gala into something resembling a concert rally.
Their performances seamlessly blended entertainment with messages of hope and change, creating an atmosphere of unified purpose.
When Mikie Sherrill entered the room, the transformation was complete. She moved through the crowd, embracing supporters and acknowledging their enthusiasm.
“Mayor Vauss has set an inspiring example in Irvington,” Sherrill shared as the crowd erupted. “This night has become a call to action for the changes we’re building across New Jersey. Together, we can create a future where everyone thrives.”
Dale Caldwell, addressing the now-energized crowd, observed, “What we’re seeing isn’t just a campaign—it’s a movement driven by leadership and momentum. We’re ready to take this energy to Trenton and bring real change to our state.”
LeRoy J. Jones, Jr., Chair of the New Jersey Democratic State Committee, emphasized the importance of the Sherrill-Caldwell ticket. 
“Mikie and Dale represent integrity and unity, reflecting the values New Jersey needs. They envision a future where inclusivity and respect lead every decision.” Jones highlighted the ethical challenges their opponents face, stressing the importance of leaders who prioritize transparency and accountability.
“Mikie Sherrill has shown her commitment to these principles, and that’s the leadership we need moving forward.”
State Senator Renee Burgessnoted the night’s historic nature. “The 10th Annual Mayor’s Ball will be remembered not just as a celebration of Tony Vauss’s leadership, but as the night when the Sherrill-Caldwell campaign truly shone. The support we saw tonight shows New Jersey is ready for their leadership.”
Irvington Council President Jamillah Beasley added, “Mayor Vauss has built a legacy of unity, and tonight he’s brought together a coalition that will help carry Mikie Sherrill and Dale Caldwell to victory. 
The shift from celebration to action is exactly what we need right now.”
As the evening concluded, it was clear that the Mayor’s Ball was more than a social event—it had become a defining moment for New Jersey’s future.
The night had begun as a celebration of Irvington’s elite and ended as a grassroots movement. Mayor Vauss summed it up:
“We’ve celebrated years of progress in Irvington, but more importantly, we’ve set the stage for a new era of progress across our state with Mikie Sherrill and Dale Caldwell leading the way.”