Growing Stage honors former Netcong mayor

Netcong — At its Annual Ovation Awards, the Growing Stage n The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey honored former Netcong Mayor Nicholas C. Pompilio with its Mintz Award for Volunteerism. In presenting the Mintz Award for Volunteerism, Stephen L. Fredericks, founder and executive director of the Growing Stage, noted that Pompilio, after his initial shock at the idea of turning The Historic Palace Theatre into a cultural destination, was supportive every step of the way. Pomplilo’s guidance over the years has been encouraging and uncompromising. At the time of the Growing Stage’s initial meeting with Pompilio, the Theatre had fallen into disrepair through a multitude of uses. It was once a jewel, featuring silent movies, vaudevillian entertainment, talking movies and, eventually, the Hopatcong Broadway Players would try out their productions at the Theatre before bringing them to Broadway. The metamorphosis of the Historic Palace Theatre to a true performing arts center is one that Mayor Pompilio may not have completely envisioned in 1995. The Mintz Award Volunteerism is named for John and Giselda Mintz of Byram Township. John served as president of the Theatre for six years and Giselda has served in many capacities, including volunteer coordinator, for many seasons. Pompilio, in accepting the recognition, encouraged all area residents to be proud of the Growing Stage and its continuing evolution and to support the Theatre by volunteering and attendance. Since his retirement, Pompilio and his wife, Jean, now live in Pine Grove, Pa.