Verona Native Honored By Essex County With Bronze Bust

NEWARK, NJ - Longtime Essex County Parks Director Daniel K. Salvante was honored Wednesday with a bronze bust in the Cherry Blossom Welcome Center in Essex County Branch Brook Park in Newark.

The surprise presentation was made in recognition of Salvante being the Parks Director for 28 years, the longest tenure in Essex County history. The bronze bust is located inside the welcome center by the entrance.

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“This has just blown me away. I am really touched by all of this. This is something I never expected and wasn’t looking for,” said Salvante, who, at times, was emotional during the presentation. “This is the best job in the world.”

Salvante grew up in Verona and currently resides in South Orange. He and his wife Mary Fran have three children and five grandchildren. Before Essex County, he was the Parks and Recreation Director in Pequannock and the Deputy Director in Berkeley Heights. He is a member of the National Recreation and Park Association and the New Jersey Recreation and Park Association. He served as President of the NJRPA from 1995 to 1996 and Vice President from 1993 to 1994.

“For almost three decades Dan has put his heart and soul into overseeing our parks and open spaces. When I took office 22 years ago, I wanted Dan to remain as Parks Director because he understood that revitalizing our parks and recreation facilities were among my priorities,” Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo said. “There is no question that we work as a team, and he is someone who I trust immensely. I am proud to have him as one of my closest friends.”

“Dan is one of the most influential and dedicated individuals to serve Essex County and he has achieved a lasting impact in the parks,” said retired Freeholder Nicholas Rolli, who is a longtime friend of Salvante’s.

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