As part of its centennial celebration, Union City turned back the clock to the disco era of the 1970s on Friday night at the William Musto Cultural Center, honoring Grammy Award winning singer Gloria Gaynor, presenting her with the Key to the City.
Gaynor had several hits during the disco era, but she is probably most remembered for the classic anthem, “I Will Survive.” Joining Gaynor at Friday’s celebration was Felipe Rose, an original member of the hit group, The Village People, portraying the Indian.
Following the presentation to Ms. Gaynor, the audience of approximately fifty people, danced the night away to disco classics from both Gaynor and The Village People, enjoyed some great food and made memories for a lifetime.
Union City Commissioner Lucio Fernandez, in presenting Ms. Gaynor with the Key to the City, remarked that the city only hands out the key during special occasions, and Friday night certainly qualified as one of those occasions.
Celia Cruz, an iconic singer for Cuban people, recorded “I Will Survive” in Spanish years ago. Five years ago Union City honored Felipe Rose with a star on the municipality’s Walk of Fame in Celia Cruz Park on Bergenline Avenue, off of Route 495.