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DUI Lawyers in Deptford, NJ
New Jersey has some of the toughest laws in the country regarding drunk driving, specifically driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI). Notably, there's a strict prohibition against plea bargaining to reduce DWI charges. A first-time conviction for drunk driving can result in hefty fines, a possible jail sentence of up to 30 days, and a 90-day suspension of your driving privileges, not to mention additional financial repercussions that can linger.
If you find yourself arrested for driving under the influence, prepare for mandatory license suspension, the potential for jail time, and a staggering minimum of $6,575 in fines and surcharges if convicted. If your insurance company catches wind of the conviction, you may have to pay significant premium increases over the next three years
The truth is that New Jersey's courts are notoriously harsh on people arrested for DUI and DWI. The penalties are substantial and can have a lasting impact on your freedom, work, and life as a whole. Fortunately, working with a quality DUI lawyer - like Edward G. Appel - can help prevent serious charges from going on your permanent record.
- Get Your DUI Case Dismissed with Help from Attorney Edward G. Appel
- The DUI Lawyers in Deptford, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Deptford, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Deptford, NJ
Edward G. Appel, Esq.
Since 1988 Edward honed his litigation expertise serving as a defense attorney in Criminal Cases, DUI/DWI and traffic matters.
His distinguished courtroom seasoning will benefit his clients as Edward focuses on criminal defense litigation. He has handled thousands of cases and is well versed in motion practice with years of trial experience. His philosophy of being well prepared has served him well over the years and is a testament to his work ethic and diligence. Email: eappel@southjerseydui.com
The DUI Lawyers in Deptford, NJ, You Can Trust
Did you know that getting a DUI conviction in New Jersey means that you'll have that charge on your record for everyone to see? We're not just talking about friends and family. We mean loan officers, college officials, and prospective employers - people and entities that can help set you on a pathway to success in life. For that reason alone, it's absolutely essential to have a seasoned DUI attorney by your side who can fight for your rights when it's time to go to court. That's where DUI attorney Edward G. Appel comes in.
Many law firms in New Jersey view DWI cases as just another item on their agenda. At our firm, however, it's a primary focus. Unlike those where DWI matters are handled by generalists, we have built a dedicated department solely for DWI cases, staffed with highly trained attorneys who are passionate about this area of law.
This level of specialization isn't just a talking point. It reflects our commitment to providing clients with the strongest defense possible. By leveraging advanced training and a thorough understanding of New Jersey DUI laws, our team is ready to fight your DUI charges and pursue the best possible outcomes for your case.
At the end of the day, our goal isn't to lecture you or judge your actions. Our goal is to defend you and your rights with reliable, aggressive advocacy so you have a real shot at reclaiming your life. Some of the most common situations we help clients overcome include:
DUI Defense in New Jersey
There are several methods to challenge a DWI charge, so facing this accusation does not necessarily lead to a conviction. Attorney Edward G. Appel will examine the specifics of your case to identify the best approach to defend your rights and safeguard your freedom.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
Receiving a DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, irrespective of whether it's your first offense or a subsequent one. The best way to mitigate the risks of jail time, fines, license revocation, and other penalties is to contest your charge with the assistance of a skilled DUI attorney in Deptford, NJ.
DUI Charges Involving Drugs in New Jersey
Being charged with DUI can happen if you're impaired by illegal substances, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs. These situations tend to be complex, so having a skilled attorney is essential to effectively contest the charges.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
A DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, whether it's your first offense or if you've been charged before. The best way to avoid penalties such as jail time, fines, and license suspension is to contest your DWI charge with the assistance of a skilled attorney.
DUI Field Sobriety and BAC Tests in New Jersey
Authorities use several types of tests to ascertain whether a driver is under the influence. These tests consist of field sobriety tests, breath analysis, and blood examinations. However, the outcomes of these evaluations can sometimes be misleading. Edward G. Appel has the expertise to recognize and demonstrate the inaccuracies in these results to protect your freedom.
What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
Most people feel anxious and frightened after getting arrested for DWI because they are uncertain about what comes next. It almost feels like you're about to hike Ladd's Castle or Candor Hall near Deptford, NJ without the proper climbing gear. That's why it's so important to understand what to anticipate following a DUI arrest - so you can prepare yourself. The initial step in the legal process is the arraignment, which is a court session that occurs soon after your DUI arrest. At this session, the judge will outline the charges that have been brought against you and give you a summary of the penalties you might face. A significant number of traffic cases are settled with plea agreements, but prosecutors are prohibited from providing these arrangements in DUI cases.
That means you have two options: You can plead guilty and face the full penalties of a DUI conviction, or you can plead not guilty and continue to fight for your rights. There is a chance that your charges could be dropped before the trial, but this usually occurs only if there are significant weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence. The judge in your case will decide the outcome after both parties have presented their evidence. Instead of going through this complicated legal process by yourself, call a New Jersey DUI lawyer like Edward G. Appel. It could mean the difference between years of hardship and a clean record.
Understanding DUI Charges in New Jersey: Criminal vs. Traffic Offenses
In New Jersey, driving under the influence (DUI) is categorized as a traffic violation, though the consequences of DUI charges are severe. However, a license suspension is not mandatory for all offenders. First-time offenders arrested with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level under 0.15% may avoid suspension if they quickly install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their personal vehicle. Other potential penalties associated with a DUI conviction can include community service, fines, and, in certain situations, imprisonment. Depending on the circumstances of your case, working with experienced DUI attorneys in Deptford, NJ, can help you avoid some or all of these punishments.
You may also be charged with DUI if you operate a vehicle while under the influence of any intoxicating substances, regardless of whether they are illegal, prescribed, or available over the counter. The specific type of drug is irrelevant; what matters is your impairment and inability to drive safely.
If convicted of a drug-related DUI, you could face:
- A license suspension of 7 to 12 months
- Up to 30 days of incarceration
- Fines and surcharges exceeding $3,500
A second conviction may result in a jail sentence ranging from 2 to 90 days and a 2-year suspension of your driver's license, along with increased fines and surcharges.
Here's What to Expect After Your 1st DUI Charge in New Jersey
Many individuals charged with DUI believe that they will receive leniency if it's their first offense, but this is not always true. First-time offenders may incur significant fines, up to 30 days of incarceration, and the compulsory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. Penalties increase for first-time offenders with a BAC of 0.10% or more at the time of arrest.
As mentioned above, these individuals face a longer mandatory IID installation period, larger fines, and the potential for jail time. First-time offenders will also experience a rise in their auto insurance premiums after their arrest. The State of New Jersey takes DUI offenses seriously, even for those encountering it for the first time.
Here's What to Expect After Your 2nd DUI Charge in New Jersey
It doesn't take a graduate from Rowan College of South Jersey in Deptford, NJ to know that getting a second DUI is bad. Defendants who are charged again within 10 years of a prior conviction face increased penalties for a second DUI offense. They may be fined up to $1,000 and must serve at least 48 hours in jail, with a maximum of 90 days. Additionally, a second conviction can lead to 30 days of community service, a one-to-two-year license suspension, and two to four years of mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) use. These consequences, along with higher insurance rates, can significantly affect a repeat offender's life.
Here's What to Expect After Your 3rd DUI Charge in New Jersey
The court has the authority to impose stringent penalties on individuals with two or more DUI convictions within the past decade. If a person is found guilty of DUI for the third time in a 10- year span, the court may sentence them to 180 days in jail along with a $1,000 fine. Those convicted for the third time will lose their driving licenses for a duration of 8 years.
The court may also require these offenders to install an ignition interlock device for a period of two to four years after their driving rights are reinstated. Because third-time offenders are categorized as high-risk drivers, they will likely face significantly increased auto insurance rates. These individuals should anticipate an extra $1,500 surcharge on their auto insurance each year for three consecutive years. Given that these penalties can have a serious impact on both personal and professional aspects of life, it is crucial to contest the charges with help from a skilled DUI attorney like Edward G. Appel.
How Do DUI Lawyers in Deptford, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
Hiring a well-respected DUI lawyer often has a major impact on your case's outcome. Great attorneys will get started immediately by taking a deep dive into the particulars of your case. They'll look for issues with the prosecution's evidence, such as:
- Did on-scene officers follow protocol when storing samples and administering chemical tests?
- Did officers have a valid reason for pulling you over to begin with?
- Are the results from your chemical tests reliable?
If not, a lawyer can expose these concerns, potentially resulting in the dismissal of the charges. These are just a few examples of how an attorney can challenge DUI charges for you.
At the law firm of Edward G. Appel, we thoroughly investigate every detail when defending our clients. In fact, our clients benefit from personalized attention, support, and a meticulously crafted defense that aligns with the specific details of their arrest. For instance, if you're arrested for DUI near Museum Of American History at Deptford, NJ in Deptford, NJ, our team can examine the scene, analyze the protocols police took, and interview witnesses. We're not satisfied until our lawyers have explored every potential defense strategy for your case. Through comprehensive investigation, negotiation, and, when required, litigation, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
Clients choose us not to simply enter a guilty plea but to robustly contest the charges against them. While no attorney can promise specific outcomes, we assure you that we will continue to advocate for you until you decide otherwise. We examine every detail of your case to ensure all necessary evidence is gathered and the right motions are submitted. There are motions available to suppress evidence if your constitutional rights were infringed upon during the stop, as well as motions to limit or dismiss evidence under particular conditions. Contact us today to evaluate your case. We are eager to help you, even if it's just to provide an initial consultation.
Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
The steps you take following a DUI arrest can significantly influence your chances of successfully contesting the charges. Unfortunately, many individuals fall into common traps that can worsen their situation and negatively impact the outcome of their case. Here's a list of the three most common mistakes that people tend to make after being arrested for DUI.
1. Failing to Hire Reputable DUI Attorneys in Deptford, NJ
When selecting a lawyer for a DUI case, you can consult your family lawyer, seek a recommendation from a friend, or find a local attorney. The biggest thing to remember is that you should hire an attorney who understands DUI law and has a solid reputation in DUI defense. Legal issues can be complicated in New Jersey, which is why competent support is paramount. Presenting the right defenses at the right time is crucial; otherwise, you may lose those opportunities. Evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and witnesses may become unavailable. A case that seems winnable can quickly turn into a lost cause. Remember that failing to act is also a choice.
2. Downplaying DUI Consequences
Understanding the implications of a conviction is a key part of strategizing your defense and can influence your defense approach. Factors such as how your home state handles convictions, the impact of any previous offenses, whether you are a commercial driver or the potential effects on your employment should be explored with a DUI lawyer who is familiar with the possible repercussions of your unique situation.
3. Giving Up and Pleading Guilty
Anyone can choose to plead guilty. However, if you decide to challenge your DUI charge, you have a chance of winning. By pleading guilty, you forfeit that opportunity. There are many scientific and constitutional challenges that can lead to the dismissal of your DUI case. When you plead guilty, you give up your right to contest these issues and force the State to prove its case against you. It's important to check that your lawyer is well-equipped to spot the issues that could lead to a successful defense in your case
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DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Deptford, NJ
Since 1988, Edward G. Appel, Esq. and his team of criminal defense attorneys have fought hard for the rights of clients just like you - men and women who have been charged with a DUI in New Jersey. Because the truth is that a DUI conviction can change your life in an instant.
Opportunities that you once had may be lost, sometimes forever. Having an experienced and dedicated defense attorney by your side can mean the difference between incarceration and dismissed charges or a diminished sentence. It's critical that you exercise your right to hire an attorney who can protect your freedom and defend you in court. Call the offices of Edward G. Appel to learn more about DUI law in New Jersey and to schedule your initial consultation today.
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Latest News in Deptford, NJ
West Deptford FD Honors National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/westdeptford/west-deptford-fd-honors-national-public-safety-telecommunicators-week
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Crime & SafetyNational Public Safety Telecommunicators Week is April 13-19. West Deptford Fire Department is proud to celebrate emergency dispatchers. The Communication Solutions Group, Community ContributorWEST DEPTFORD...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week is April 13-19. West Deptford Fire Department is proud to celebrate emergency dispatchers.
The Communication Solutions Group, Community Contributor
WEST DEPTFORD— In an average year, over 240 million 911 calls are made in the United States, with emergency dispatchers being the first point of contact in any emergency situation. According to the NJ EMS Data Repository, New Jersey handles over 1.5 million incidents annually. For National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (NPSTW), April 13-19, West Deptford Fire Department celebrates and honors the invaluable contribution made by telecommunication personnel to public safety.
NPSTW is a week dedicated to acknowledging and thanking telecommunicators for their critical role in emergency response. Every day and night all across the country, public safety telecommunicators answer emergency and non-emergency calls. They connect callers to emergency care and provide valuable resources to those in need.
Emergency dispatchers also provide crucial information to firefighters and EMS personnel every day. West Deptford Fire Department knows firsthand the critical role that telecommunicators play in public safety. Without their dedicated service and hard work, the timely response and effective management of emergencies would not be possible.
West Deptford Fire Department Provides the Following Tips for Speaking to 911 Telecommunicators
Calling 911 is very stressful and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. If you choose to call 911, know what to expect and how to react:
Find out what's happening in West Deptfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
This NPSTW, West Deptford Fire Department, expresses its deepest gratitude and appreciation to telecommunicators and all emergency dispatchers across the nation for their unwavering commitment to public safety.
Are you ready to protect the community and respond when a fire or another emergency call comes in? Sign up to volunteer with our team www.westdeptfordfirefighter.org.
West Deptford Contractor Who Drowned In NJ Creek ID'd: Authorities
West Deptford-National Park Daily Voicehttps://dailyvoice.com/nj/west-deptford-national-park/west-deptford-contractor-who-drowned-in-nj-creek-idd-authorities/
Garciagaona was working as a contractor at a private home along Big Timber Creek in Westville when he lost his footing on an embankment and entered the water, according to the Gloucester County Office of Emergency Management. The incident prompted a large-scale response involving dive teams and marine units from Gloucester, Camden, and Cumberland counties, authorities said.It is with deep sorrow that we share the sudden passing of Valentin, a devoted husband, loving father of two, and the...Posted by ...
Garciagaona was working as a contractor at a private home along Big Timber Creek in Westville when he lost his footing on an embankment and entered the water, according to the Gloucester County Office of Emergency Management. The incident prompted a large-scale response involving dive teams and marine units from Gloucester, Camden, and Cumberland counties, authorities said.
It is with deep sorrow that we share the sudden passing of Valentin, a devoted husband, loving father of two, and the...
Posted by Sarah Porter on Thursday, May 15, 2025
His body was recovered by dive teams at 9:29pm on Wednesday, officials said.
R.i.p to Valentin Garcia-Gaona this hits different when it happens right out side your window, i watch these guys landscape every day on my street
Posted by Teddy Bullock on Thursday, May 15, 2025
A fundraiser has been launched for Garciagaona's family, which includes his wife, Joanne and two daughters, Nicole and Sheena. As of Friday, May 16, $6,390 has been raised.
With deep regret and complete sadness I'm very sad to announce my dear friend Valentin García has passed on to heaven...
Posted by Robert Hauck on Thursday, May 15, 2025
To view the fundraiser, click here.
Click here to follow Daily Voice West Deptford-National Park and receive free news updates.
Weeks Of Closures On Bridge Linking South Jersey, PA Starting Soon
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/westdeptford/nightly-closures-coming-bridge-linking-south-jersey-pa
BRIDGEPORT, NJ — Starting Monday, the Commodore Barry Bridge will reduce to one lane in each direction every weeknight for several weeks, impacting travel on the span that brings South Jerseyans closer to Philadelphia.The closures will occur weeknights from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. as crews replace the bridge's barrier wall. The work will take around four or five weeks, weather permitting, according to the Delaware River Port Authority, which operates the bridge.Drivers using the bridge on weeknights should expect delays, especia...
BRIDGEPORT, NJ — Starting Monday, the Commodore Barry Bridge will reduce to one lane in each direction every weeknight for several weeks, impacting travel on the span that brings South Jerseyans closer to Philadelphia.
The closures will occur weeknights from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. as crews replace the bridge's barrier wall. The work will take around four or five weeks, weather permitting, according to the Delaware River Port Authority, which operates the bridge.
Drivers using the bridge on weeknights should expect delays, especially on Thursday and Friday nights, when shore-bound travelers typically bring heavier eastbound traffic.
The Commodore Barry Bridge is one of several that spans the Delaware River, linking Gloucester County and Chester, Pennsylvania.
The bridge's movable barrier wall separates eastbound and westbound traffic. It can be adjusted to accommodate traffic demand on the five-lane span.
Find out what's happening in West Deptfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Before the concrete barrier was installed in the early 2000s, there was no physical separation between eastbound and westbound traffic. There was merely an empty buffer lane and overhead signals to indicate lane direction, the DRPA says.
Crews are replacing the concrete barrier with a modern steel system and a new barrier transfer machine that enhances safety and offers better crash protection, the DRPA said in an advisory.
Similar steel barriers have been installed on the Ben Franklin and Walt Whitman bridges, which the DRPA also manages.
The upgrades are part of a $220 million rehabilitation project for the Commodore Barry Bridge that's slated for completion in 2028. Work will also include blast-cleaning and repainting the bridge, concrete deck repairs and other safety upgrades.
On average, 41,000 vehicles cross the bridge each day.
Sprouts Farmers Market Sets Opening Date for West Deptford Location for June 27
Mike Gillhttps://973espn.com/sprouts-west-deptford-opening/
A grocery store chain with over 400 locations across the country is opening its fourth South Jersey grocery store in Gloucester County in the Garden State.There are current locations in South Jersey in Marlton (227 Route 73 S) and Haddon Township (640 W Cuthbert Blvd), and one in Cliffwood, which is in Monmouth County.Spouts Farmers Market Grocery, which is similar to a Trader Joe's or a Whole Foods, has announced a brand new 23,256 square foot building in the Southwood Shopping Center at 875 Mantua Pike in West Deptford, set t...
A grocery store chain with over 400 locations across the country is opening its fourth South Jersey grocery store in Gloucester County in the Garden State.
There are current locations in South Jersey in Marlton (227 Route 73 S) and Haddon Township (640 W Cuthbert Blvd), and one in Cliffwood, which is in Monmouth County.
Spouts Farmers Market Grocery, which is similar to a Trader Joe's or a Whole Foods, has announced a brand new 23,256 square foot building in the Southwood Shopping Center at 875 Mantua Pike in West Deptford, set to open on June 27, according to their website.
“Both the ownership group and Sprouts Farmers Market are elated to introduce the Sprouts brand to West Deptford, NJ. This addition promises to delight the local community, catering to the increasing demand for natural grocery stores in the area. Corinne Giletto, Director of Client Services at Vantage Commercial, shared in a press release.
Sprouts gives its customers a unique grocery experience featuring an open layout with fresh produce at the heart of the store. It is known as a health-focused supermarket that offers a wide variety of natural foods, organic produce, and healthy food options. They have a deli, meat counter, and are even known for Sushi.
Here are some of the things you can expect at Sprouts Farmers Market.
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They already have a bunch of things planned for the grand opening, which are all laid out on their website, and include a Ribbon-cutting ceremony at 6:45 a.m., with the first 200 in-store shoppers receiving a FREE reusable bag filled with samples at 7 a.m.
Here is a look at the plans for opening day:
They will be having a Pop-up Party, with samples out front, the Great Scale Showdown contest, and a scavenger hunt on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Plus, all customers who sign up for a Sprouts account will be entered for a chance to win a $500 Sprouts gift card.
"The residents in the area have been eagerly anticipating the arrival of an organic grocer for many years,” Giletto continued.
What are your thoughts on Sprouts Farmers Market adding another store in South Jersey? We’d love to hear from you! Join the conversation by messaging us on the app!
Good Morning! Here are the Best Bagel Shops in South Jersey
Where to get the best bagels in South Jersey.
Introducing the New Rastelli Entrepreneurship Center at RCSJ
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/westdeptford/introducing-new-rastelli-entrepreneurship-center-rcsj
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.SchoolsThe Center provides essential resources to help convert ideas into reality and launch the next generation of entrepreneurial innovators.RCSJ News, Community Contribu...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
The Center provides essential resources to help convert ideas into reality and launch the next generation of entrepreneurial innovators.
RCSJ News, Community Contributor
|Updated Thu, Apr 24, 2025 at 2:26 pm ET
On Thursday, April 17, Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ), Rastelli Foods Group, and the Gloucester Country Board of Commissioners celebrated the most recent product of a fruitful partnership – the new Rastelli Entrepreneurship Center at RCSJ.
“This is an exciting day for each and every entrepreneur who has dared to dream,” remarked Gloucester County Commissioner director, Frank J. DiMarco. “It is with great pride that we welcome you to the official ribbon cutting ceremony for the Rastelli Entrepreneurship Center. Today marks a bold new chapter for Rowan College of South Jersey and a powerful investment in the future of innovation, business, and student success.”
Strategically located within the Rastelli Business and Corporate Center on RCSJ’s Gloucester campus, the Rastelli Entrepreneurship Center will provide essential resources to help convert ideas into reality. Students will have access to a co-working space, a dedicated meeting room for business planning, and a packaging demonstration area to support product development.
“Today, we recognize more than just the opening of our new Center,” stated Dominic Puggi, Ed.D., dean of the Division of Business Studies. “We celebrate the launch of an entrepreneurial hub designed to empower students with the skills, tools, and experiences they need to succeed. Not just in the classroom, but in the real world. And this moment would not be possible without the generosity, vision, and commitment of the Rastelli family.”
The Center’s opening comes just two years into RCSJ and Rastelli Foods Group’s premier partnership, designed to support new program development and provide scholarship assistance to help launch the next generation of entrepreneurial, culinary, and agricultural innovators. This past year, seventeen students received a $2,000 Rastelli Foods Group Business Studies scholarship; with additional scholarship support available for students enrolled in business-related certificate programs through the Division of Career & Technical Education.
Find out what's happening in West Deptfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The partnership also places a strong emphasis on creating pre- and post-graduation employment opportunities for RCSJ students and graduates, along with mentored internship experiences. One of the Business Studies students recently selected for a Rastelli internship – Bella D., a Gloucester campus Computer Graphic Arts major – spoke as part of the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“I’d really love to thank RCSJ for this opportunity to be here today and extend my sincere gratitude to the Rastelli family for selecting me for this incredible internship which I’ll begin this fall,” she shared. “Being welcomed into the kind of place where innovation and hard work go hand-in-hand means so much to me. I'm excited to contribute, gain real-world experience, and grow alongside a team that is making a difference.”
Bella discovered one more reason for excitement when Lauren Rastelli DeMarco invited her to be the Rastelli family’s special guest at the Rowan College Foundation’s annual Blue & Gold Gala. The April 24 event will honor Ray Rastelli, the man she was here to introduce, as the Foundation’s “2025 Person of the Year.”
“It is a true honor and deeply personal privilege to introduce someone who means the world to me, my uncle Ray Rastelli,” said Rastelli DeMarco, vice-president of marketing and instrumental figure in the Rastelli Entrepreneurship Center’s design and function.
“To the world, he's a renowned entrepreneur, the driving force behind the Rastelli Foods Group, and a visionary who's helped to reshape the food industry. But to me, he's just my uncle. The same man who has always believed in hard work, leading by example, and showing me what it means to truly dream big and never give up.”
With that introduction, Ray Rastelli, founder and president of Rastelli Foods Group, took the podium to share his own entrepreneurial journey. He spoke about the people who supported him along the way – including his brother Tony Rastelli, the company’s co-founder and vice-president – and how that support helped him to conquer his fear of failure and fully embrace the realization that "it's not a straight path to success.”
“At the very, very beginning, there were lots of people who just believed in me – a 19-year-old kid who had a lot of big dreams, a lot of hustle, and a tremendous fear of failure. And that’s what we're going to be able to create here – a safe space where we can believe in people,” shared Rastelli. “This is going to be a place where people can dream big. Where they can have bold ideas. It's a place that will be safe for failure.”
“True entrepreneurs will never, ever stop learning, they will never stop improving, and they will never stop dreaming,” he continued. “Even at 68 I still wake up with ideas every morning. I bring them to my team and most of them think I'm crazy. Some of those ideas stick and some of them don’t stick; but unless you dream – unless you have some of those crazy ideas – you as an entrepreneur will never really have the opportunity to do something very, very different.”
Beyond its physical space, the Rastelli Entrepreneurship Center will foster innovation through workshops, seminars, and networking events; connecting students, faculty, and industry professionals to encourage creativity, collaboration, and the life-long learning opportunities which Rastelli espouses. The Center will also be including our community’s youngest aspiring entrepreneurs; plans will soon be announced for a summer Rastelli Entrepreneurship Camp for high school students with big ideas.
“We are thrilled at the addition of the Rastelli Entrepreneurship Center, as are our Board, our Commissioners, and most importantly, our student body,” remarked Frederick Keating, Ed.D. “And by that, I mean those who are here with us today and those that will pass through these halls and benefit from this Center in the days and decades to come – because Ray saw it. Because he had a vision and Lauren helped to deliver it.”
To learn more about RCSJ’s premier partnership with Rastelli Foods Group and how it benefits students, visit RCSJ.edu/Rastelli.
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