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Speakers at this Re-dedication included (l-r) Mrs. Marie Fitzgibbons, BOE President; John Tessaro, Athletics Director; William Torre, Mayor; Rose Marie Heck, Assemblywoman; Dr. Richard Stepura, Superintendent of Schools; and Dr. Mark Delcalzo, Chairman Buildings & Grounds.

Board of Education To Rededicate Depken Field
by John Casella, community relations, Board of Education

On Friday evening, October 15, at 6:15 P.M. the Board of Education will host a ceremony to rededicate Depken field. Among those scheduled to speak at the rededication are Mayor Bill Torre as well as Assemblywoman, Rose Heck.

At that time public recognition and thanks will be given to all those who volunteered their time and effort in restoration of the field. These ceremonies mark the culmination of months of planning and work on the part of the Hasbrouck Heights Board of Education, town officials and several community groups.

Several months ago the B.O.E. received a $50,000 grant from the state through the good offices of Assemblywoman Heck to add an additional softball field, which now occupies the northwest corner close to Route 17, at Depken field. As this project moved forward, funds from the project were earmarked for improvement and restoration of field facilities.

Volunteers from the HHHS parents of athletes, local contractors, local officials and others met with board of ed. officials to identify the work needed to be done and draw up a plan of attack.

These are a few highlights of the wide ranging improvements that were made: an automated thirteen zone sprinkler was installed in the field. The entire area at the bottom of the bleachers was resurfaced as was the runway for the long jump and pole vault. The cement stands, railings and field house were painted. Bushes, shrubs and perennials were planted throughout the field area, and Belgium block was laid as a border around the flagpole and by the field house. Finally, new NO SMOKING signs were placed throughout the field, reminding us all of the courtesy that we owe our neighbors and kids when we attend sporting events.

All of the materials for the improvement were supplied at cost and labor was generously donated. The board wishes to thank Rick Crecco, Ron Kistner, Chief Colaneri, and Nick Delcalzo, among others for making the renovation of the field a reality.

Come to Depken field and celebrate its rededication with us on Friday evening, October 15, at 6:15 and stay for the Heights vs. Harrison varsity football game immediately following. Join us in thanking those who worked so hard in restoring this important community resource.

Go to: [Before photos]


About Gary Depken (from program):
Gary Depken grew up in Hasbrouck Heights and attended Hasbrouck Heights High School.   Gary was an outstanding athlete who lettered in four Varsity Sports: Football, Basketball, Baseball and Track.  In addition to his impressive athletic ability Gary was the president of the graduating class of 1926.

Upon graduation, Gary went on to college and subsequently graduated from the University of Illinois.

In 1943, Gary returned to Hasbrouck Heights High School where he taught physical Education and served as the Athletic Director for almost 30 years.

Before retiring in 1970, Gary no only served as the Athletic director but coached Bowling, Baseball and Track of which he let Hasbrouck Heights to numerous league titles.

It gives us great pleasure to be rededicating this field in honor of Gary Depken who was and always will be a great role model for the children of Hasbrouck Heights.

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