COVID, Backyard Graduation: Berkeley’s Top Stories Of 2020

BERKELEY, NJ — As 2020 comes to a close, Berkeley and much of the world are looking forward to the new year.

Throughout 2020, the community saw death, illness, job loss and school closures. But sometimes the community came together, as hospital workers were appreciated more than ever and school graduations were staged at home.

Here are some of Berkeley Patch's top stories of 2020:

Hero: Hospital Tech From Berkeley Who 'Made Ultimate Sacrifice'

Sandra Hardy-Rogers, who worked at Community Medical Center, died from the coronavirus. Around 30 nominated her to Patch as their hero.

Berkeley Family Surprises Student With Backyard

She excelled in class and kept busy on campus. And the coronavirus wouldn't stop her family from celebrating her accomplishments.

Neighbor Breaks Into Berkeley Home, Spills His Blood: Police

Police accused a man of breaking into a neighbor's Escher Court last December, leaving fresh blood throughout the house. Authorities believe the man later lied about getting struck in a hit-and-run to lie about his injuries.

Central Regional Alumni Make Anime-Style Netflix Series | Berkeley, NJ Patch

Vlas and Charley Parlapanides, Seaside Park natives and Central Regional alumni, created Netflix series 'Blood of Zeus.'

2 Die In Berkeley Rt. 9 Crash, Victims Identified
A driver and a cyclist died in March in a Route 9 crash. Officials identified the victims as Jeffrey Martin, of Bayville, and Frank Brooks, of Beachwood.

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