The first annual Peppertown Park Bocce Tournament and Festival kicked off the fundraising efforts to benefit the Peppertown Park Renewal Project on Saturday at the park, raising $1,450. The tournament was the perfect start to summer with a "Little Italy" festival flavor. Berkeley Heights local eateries were showcased serving their meatball, sausage and pepper subs and pizza, while sounds of Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra's signature hits crooned in the background  -- "That's Amore!"

Located in the heart of downtown Berkeley Heights, the goal of those working to renovate Peppertown Park is for it to become a cultural hub. "The dream is that it will be used as a site for Art in the Park, outdoor movies and performances, as well as be a family-friendly, multi-seasonal location that, when completed, will be enjoyed by residents and visitors for decades to come," said committee member Midge Vicendese.