By: Richard L. Smith
Irvington Township is gearing up for an exciting addition to its community with the grand opening of a brand-new senior citizen theater.
The Honorable Mayor Tony Vauss, alongside the municipal council, is pleased to announce the much-anticipated unveiling of the theater on June 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The theater, located at 1077 Springfield Avenue in Irvington Township, will be named after the esteemed late resident, Lebby C. Jones, to honor her exceptional contributions to the community.
Lebby C. Jones, a longtime resident of Irvington Township, dedicated her life to serving the community with unwavering commitment, diligence, distinction, and honor.
As an honorable Freeholder, Jones consistently championed the needs and aspirations of the Irvington community, leaving an indelible mark on its history. Naming the theater after her is a fitting tribute to her enduring legacy.
According to township officials, in November 2014, Freeholder Jones was elected to her first term as an Essex County Freeholder At-Large. She won re-election in November 2017, serving until her death on January 9, 2019.
Following her appointment as the South Ward Council Member in 1994, she was elected to the position in 1996. In 1998, she was elected as an At-Large Council Member and re-elected in 2002, 2006, and again in 2010, until she retired from the Irvington Municipal Council on June 30, 2014.
She enjoyed a 33-year career as an educator, working as both a teacher and guidance counselor in the Newark Public Schools. Jone died on January 9, 2019, at 75 years old.
The $1.8 million investment in the senior citizen theater underscores Irvington Township's commitment to providing inclusive spaces for its senior population. The new theater promises to provide entertainment and cultural enrichment for the township's esteemed senior citizens.
Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the theater will feature various performances, including plays, musicals, concerts, and movie screenings.
The grand opening ceremony will be a momentous occasion, welcoming residents and dignitaries alike to celebrate the realization of this long-awaited project.
Mayor Tony Vauss expressed enthusiasm, stating, "The opening of the Lebby C. Jones Senior Citizen Theater marks a significant milestone in Irvington Township's commitment to providing our senior community with spaces that enrich their lives.
This theater will serve as a vibrant cultural hub, fostering creativity, community engagement, and lifelong learning. We invite everyone to join us on June 22 for this joyous celebration."
With the opening of the Lebby C. Jones Senior Citizen Theater, Irvington Township, continues its mission to create a thriving and inclusive community for all residents.
The theater will undoubtedly become a cherished gathering place, enriching the lives of seniors and fostering a strong sense of community pride.