TONY VAUSS'S 10TH ANNUAL MAYOR'S BALL TRANSFORMS INTO ELECTRIFYING CAMPAIGN RALLY FOR THE SHERRILL-CALDWELL TICKET

BELLEVILLE, NJ, October 2025 – What began as an elegant celebration of Mayor Tony Vauss's decade of leadership in Irvington Township evolved into a powerful campaign rally for gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill and her running mate, Dale Caldwell, at the landmark 10th Annual Mayor's Ball held at Nanina's In The Park on October 1, 2025 evening.

The opulent ballroom of the historic venue was initially filled with the gentle clinking of champagne flutes and sophisticated conversation as attendees in formal attire mingled beneath the warm glow of crystal chandeliers. The annual gala, known for bringing together influential leaders from across New Jersey, began as a celebration of community achievement and civic pride.

Traffic around the venue was bumper to bumper as guests eagerly made their way to the event. At last count, 575 people were in attendance, with more arriving to show their support for the Mayor. The enthusiasm was palpable, setting the stage for a memorable night.

However, the evening took a dramatic turn when Mayor Vauss approached the podium. His demeanor shifted from formal host to impassioned advocate as he introduced Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill and University President Dale Caldwell to thunderous applause.

"Tonight, we're not just celebrating what we've accomplished in Irvington," Mayor Vauss declared, his voice rising with conviction. "We're looking toward the future of our great state. Our future demands leadership that understands our communities, fights for working families, and has the courage to stand up for New Jersey values.

That leadership is Mikie Sherrill and Dale Caldwell."The energy in the room transformed instantly. Polite applause gave way to boisterous cheers as attendees rose to their feet. The refined atmosphere of the ball suddenly crackled with the electric energy of a political rally. Formal gowns and tuxedos were juxtaposed against pumping fists and passionate faces as the crowd rallied behind the Sherrill-Caldwell ticket.

The evening reached new heights when hip-hop legends Treach of Naughty by Nature and Do It All Dupree Kelly from Lords of the Underground took the stage, delivering performances that had the crowd on their feet. The musical icons seamlessly blended entertainment with political messaging, further energizing the room.

When Congresswoman Sherrill entered, the transformation was complete. The ballroom erupted in chants of "Mikie! Mikie!" as she made her way through the crowd, stopping to embrace supporters and thank them for their energy.

"I've never seen anything like it," remarked Orange Mayor Dwayne D. Warren. "One minute we were at a formal gala, the next we were in the middle of the most energetic campaign rally I've witnessed in decades. That's the power of the Sherrill-Caldwell vision for New Jersey."

Mayor Vauss, who has led Irvington Township to unprecedented progress with his "One Team, One Dream" philosophy, praised the gubernatorial ticket for their commitment to issues affecting urban communities."Mikie Sherrill and Dale Caldwell understand that New Jersey's strength lies in its diversity," said Mayor Vauss. "Their vision for our state includes all communities, all neighborhoods, and all families. They're not just talking about change – they've demonstrated their commitment to making real progress throughout their careers." Congresswoman Sherrill expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support at the event.

"Mayor Vauss has created something special in Irvington, and tonight's celebration is a testament to his leadership," said Sherrill. "What began as a beautiful tribute to his decade of service has become a rallying cry for the future we can build together across New Jersey. The energy in this room tonight – that's the energy we're feeling across the state as more people join our movement for affordable healthcare, quality education, and economic opportunity for all."

Dale Caldwell, Sherrill's running mate and respected university president, highlighted the significance of the evening's transformation.

"This is what happens when leadership meets momentum," Caldwell remarked. "Mayor Vauss has shown what dedicated public service looks like, and now voters are ready to bring that same commitment to Trenton. What you're seeing tonight isn't just a campaign event – it's a movement taking shape before our eyes."

LeRoy J. Jones, Jr., Chair of the New Jersey Democratic State Committee and Essex County Democratic Committee, emphasized the importance of the Sherrill-Caldwell ticket in contrast to their opponents. "New Jersey needs leaders like Mikie and Dale who stand for integrity and progress," Jones stated. "Unlike their opponents, who align with divisive and extreme agendas, Mikie and Dale embody the values of our state – inclusivity, respect, and a commitment to moving New Jersey forward."

Jones also commented on the ethical challenges facing their opponents, highlighting the need for leadership that respects privacy and champions the needs of all New Jersey residents. "Mikie Sherrill has shown time and again that she is committed to transparency and accountability, values that are crucial for the future of our state."

State Senator Renee Burgess noted the historic nature of the evening. "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 showed its true strength. The spontaneous outpouring of support we witnessed tonight demonstrates that New Jersey is ready for their leadership."

Irvington Council President Jamillah Beasley added, "Mayor Vauss Has Built a Legacy Of Bringing People Together, And Tonight He's Brought Together A Coalition That Will Help Carry Mikie Sherrill And Dale Caldwell To Victory. The Energy Has Shifted from Celebration to Action, And That's Exactly What We Need Right Now."

As the evening concluded, it was clear that the 10th Annual Mayor's Ball had become more than a social gathering – it had transformed into a defining moment in the gubernatorial campaign, uniting community leaders, elected officials, and residents behind the Sherrill-Caldwell vision for New Jersey's future.

"Tonight we celebrated years of progress in Irvington," concluded Mayor Vauss, "but more importantly, we've set the stage for a new era of progress across our entire state under the leadership of our next Governor, Mikie Sherrill, and Lieutenant Governor, Dale Caldwell."