e-Newspaper for April 10, 2024

The winner of the Find the Easter Egg contest may be found in this edition as well as the locations of all the eggs.

State releases School Reports for 2022-23 academic year

Full, exhaustive reports are available online; this week, we take a look at Kearny and Harrison high schools

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

The New Jersey Department of Education last week released the state’s School Performance Reports for the 2022-2023 school year, providing extensive state-level education information as well as data by school district and individual schools.

The 2022-2023 School Performance Reports include all data categories that were reported prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, including all assessment, student growth, and accountability data. Additionally, the 2022-2023 School Performance Reports include student growth data for the first time since 2018-2019.

The NJDOE’s measure of student growth requires both current-year assessment results and at least one prior year’s results, but growth data could not be reported in recent years because the New Jersey Student Learning Assessments (NJSLA) were canceled in 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

IIn addition to assessment and accountability results, the reports contain a wide variety of information such as data on student demographics; participation and performance on the PSAT, SAT and ACT tests; course participation including Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and dual enrollment courses; chronic absenteeism; discipline data; staff information; graduation rates; and district narratives.

“The NJDOE’s School Performance Reports provide communities with a starting point for discussion, and they can also be a valuable tool for school leaders to identify successes and areas for improvement,” Kevin Dehmer, acting commissioner of Education, said. “Our educators are particularly interested in the student growth data because when focusing on academic growth, rather than solely test scores, we get a better understanding of how well our students are progressing and opportunities for improvement.”

The 2022-2023 reports

include the following changes that respond to updated state requirements and stakeholder feedback:

n Expanded computer science course participation data showing participation for all grades kindergarten through grade 12;

n New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJGPA) results for 2022-2023 11th graders; and

n Results from the fall 2023

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) accountability process.

The School Performance

Reports provide trend data that reflects advances, such as the 91.1% four-year graduation rate, which is the highest level since New Jersey implemented the federal graduation rate calculation in 2011; and Advanced Placement (AP)

Doyle: Migrants aren’t being sent to Kearny

read early last week on social media that the Diamond Head Oil Refinery in town was going to house trailers with immigrants. This is simply not true — the site is a Superfund site in need of remediation.

The EPA did clear over 20 acres of land from the Newark-Jersey City Turnpike to Route 280 to prepare for

By Carol Jean Doyle Mayor of Kearny

cleanup two weeks ago.

The land is zoned for industrial and commercial use only and is owned by the Town of Kearny.

So, in essence, a resident stated the Town of Kearny, the Mayor and Council, approved trailers to set up camp for immigrants when he saw three of them on the property. The trailers house daily workers monitoring the cleanup — and serve no other purpose.

At the Town Council meeting April 2, I had Town Attorney Jim Bruno ex-

plain in detail what was happening to the property. Thanks to The Observer for going live with Jim’s explanation. Let me assure you — from me to you — if anything of this nature should ever happen, know the message will come from me, your Mayor, along with the Town Council.

Harrison High School

IPolice: Teens break into, vandalize Little Red School House

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

t appears not even the Little Red Schoolhouse Museum — one of the most noted buildings in Lyndhurst — nor a remembrance to the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks at the World Trade Center, are off limits to criminals these days. Here’s why we say this.

Lyndhurst Police Det. Lt. Vin-

cent Auteri tells The Observer on Monday, March 31, 2024, at approximately 7:20 p.m., officers responded to an activated burglar alarm at the schoolhouse, at 400 Riverside Ave. Upon the arrival of Officer Michael Carrino, he says he observed three people running from the building before they attempted to flee east on Fern Avenue. Officer Carrino im-

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mediately identified himself as a police officer at which time the three suspects stopped and were detained without incident.

The three culprits — Adrian Maldonado, 19, of Ramsey; Jordan Batista, 18, of East Rutherford; and Michelle Marinho, 18, of Lyndhurst, were arrested.

Officer Carrino was ultimately joined by Lt. Richard Holicki and Officers Mark Rivera, Michael Walker, Michael Scalese and Anthony Morreale. The three suspects gained access to the schoolhouse through a basement entrance. Before fleeing the building, they removed the cover page

from a 2001 newspaper containing a story on the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.

Maldonado, Batista and Marinho were all charged with burglary and released. They are scheduled to appear in court on April 10. Additional charges are pending.

The original Lyndhurst Little Red Schoolhouse was built in 1804 and was one of the first public schools in Bergen County. The school was knocked down and rebuilt with a second level in 1849.

It was knocked down again in 1893 and rebuilt in its current form as a single level, one classroom, public school.

Major roadwork begins on Belleville’s Washington Avenue

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

Washington Avenue is scheduled to have single lane closures this week as a roadway improvement project advances in Belleville and Nutley.

Beginning at 6 a.m., Monday, April 8, and continuing weekdays, Monday through Wednesday, the left lane on Washington Avenue in scheduled to be closed in both directions between Cleveland and Academy streets in Belleville for milling, paving and striping. One lane of traffic will be maintained in each direction. Single lane closures will continue on

the road for approximately two months for milling and paving work.

No street parking will be permitted within the active work zones. In addition, left turns from Washington Avenue, and left turns and through traffic from local roads will not be permitted in active work zones.

Motorists will be directed to follow posted detours. Access will be maintained for residential properties and local businesses during normal business hours. Bus stops within the project limits will be maintained.

Work for this stage of the project will be done in eight

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The $20 million federally funded project will reconstruct and pave approximately two miles of Route 7 in Belleville and Nutley. In addition, improvements will be made at all intersections within the project limits, including drainage and traffic signal upgrades, as well as ADA-compliant pedestrian safety improvements.

Work is estimated to take approximately three years.

Three upcoming Kearny events, including 2 for Project Graduation

There are a few yet equally important events coming up in the next few months in Kearny. Here’s a look.

First, on April 13, on April 13 from 9 a.m. to noon, it’s a community health and wellness fair at Lincoln Middle School at the courtyard on the Kearny Avenue side of the school. On hand — vendors, giveaways, healthy snacks, free screenings and more — and it is all free and open to the community.

Then, a few weeks later, on April 26, it’s the most important fundraiser of the year for Kearny High School’s Project Graduation — the annual volleyball tournament — with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. General admission is $5 and students with IDs and senior citizens enter for $3 and all proceeds go to the annual

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graduation-night event that has been in Kearny for more than two decades.

The matches include Kearny High teachers vs. seniors; Kearny firefighters vs. Kearny police officers; board of education employees against town employees; Franklin School vs. Washington School; Garfield School vs. Roosevelt School and Lincoln School vs. Schuyler School.

Refreshments will be available for purchase at this all-important event.

Lastly, on May 19, Project Graduation hosts another fundraiser with a trip to Wind Creek, with a departure from the Kearny Bank parking lot at 9 a.m. and a return to Kearny by 7 p.m. The $45 cost includes $25 in casino play. Those interested may send payments by Cash App to $kearnyprojectgrad or Venmo @ kearny-projectgrad.

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P.S. Principal residence may not always be an actual home. A boat that someone lives on full-time may qualify.

Belleville Sons hosting fundraiser for children’s organ association

American Legion Post 105 hosts a picnic to benefit the Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA), one of the American Legion’s key charities, Sunday, April 21, from 1 to 6 p.m. at the post, 621 Washington Ave., Belleville.

COTA helps children and young adults who need life-saving transplants by providing fundraising assistance and family support.

All proceeds from the picnic will benefit the charity. Tickets are $20 and are available in advance at the post. It will be a day of BBQ, games for kids and adults and music by Country Cousins.

Can’t make it? You may also make a donation via check, or Venmo us at @ sal105nj.

For more on COTA, visit www.cota. org.

KCG car show fundraiser is upcoming this weekend

The KGC cheer team sponsors a car, truck and bike show fundraiser April 13 (rain date April 14) at the American Legion, 314 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Registration takes place from 9 to 11 a.m.

Judging begins at 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and awards will be presented at 3 p.m. There will also be music and a food truck on hand.

FINANCIAL

IPARKING REGULATIONS TIGHTENED

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

f you’ve been parking a commercial vehicle on Kearny’s streets — especially during the overnight hours — it’s time to make other plans. And that’s because the town’s governing body recently adopted an update to the overnight parking ordinance, and it calls for such parking to be banned, daily, from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. in residential areas.

The ordinance was unanimously adopted at last week’s meeting of the Mayor and Town Council.

Here are some of the most important aspects of the ordinance — and what makes a vehicle a “commercial vehicle.”

For the sake of the new law, commercial vehicles are those used to transport people for hire, those used for the transport of property, materials, cargo, equipment or tools, it has

more than three wheels, weighs more than 5 tons, is taller than 9.5 feet, is longer than 18 feet, is more than 7 feet wide, contains equipment or cargo cages or racks, includes commercial or business lettering or graphics, is registered commercially (to include taxis, buses, limos, farm equipment, commuter vans or school vehicles. Moving trucks and dumpsters are not affected by the ordinance. The ordinance also doesn’t apply to any

vehicle, the driver of which, is in the process of providing work or services (deliveries, couriers, utility workers, etc.) And it does not apply to bigger personal vehicles such as a Ford F-150 that are typically used for personal purposes.

Initially, residents will be given warnings before being slapped with tickets, but once that short grace period is over, April 15, fines of $150 per

OPINION & VIEWPOINTS

COMMENTARY

Just what has changed in the 25 years since Columbine?

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

In a few weeks, April 20, the people of Littleton, Colorado, the nation and the world will mark the 25th anniversary of the horrors of Columbine High School, where two murderous teenagers killed a teacher, 12 students and then, finally, themselves.

The name of the school has become synonymous with the multitude of school shootings that have happened in the quarter century since. So often, when there are such shootings, they’re referred to as yet “Another Columbine.”

Still, here we are in 2024 and if there if anything, though the 2023-2024 school year is just a few months from concluding, there will likely be another school-shooting incident — maybe more than one — before attention is turned to the 2024-2025 academic year.

The 1998-1999 school year was my first as a teacher at St. Anthony High School, Jersey City. I taught religion. And one of the great aspects of that role was at times of tragedy, religion teachers instinctively switched to more pastoral role, put aside the academics temporarily and tackled the issue we all faced.

How would they process the killings at Columbine? Most of the kids — now in their late 30s and early 40s — hadn’t ever experienced so much as the news of a major school shooting. Sure, there had been some incidents in the years prior, but nothing to this degree. It really was something very “new” and it was all challenging.

The day after it, April 21, 1999, was the first time I ever heard a teenager say he was concerned something like this could happen to him, his friends, his family, his classmates. It was the first time we, as a faculty, had no other choice but to address what to do if, God forbid, that kind of day ever came.

Fortunately for us, that day never arrived. But it seemed so cruel kids aged 13 to 18 were now faced with this possibility. And as the years have gone on, that angst has no doubt increased with lockdown drills and the like. It is still hard to fathom adults have to tell kids, if it comes down to it, “run, hide, fight.”

No one should ever be put in such a spot and yet we do it and will do it until something happens to fix this horrific epidemic that plagues this country. I wish I had an answer, a quick fix. But considering how little has changed since 1999 — and that it’s all trickled down to elementary schools in some places in the years since 1999 — one thing from that day 25 years ago is clear: For as much as we’ve learned since Columbine, so painfully little has truly changed. And that is the greatest shame of them all.

BHS remembers forgotten British soldier

On April 8, 1918, during the Great War, a company of Royal British sailors and marines gathered on a quiet hillside to lay a comrade to rest — not in Europe, but in North Bergen. Pvt. Bertram Venables, 31, was a Royal Marine Light Infantry of the British battleship HMS Dominion. Venables died from pneumonia during a port call to New York on Aug. 4, 1918. His burial was in North Bergen. Four years ago, the Belleville Historical Society was doing restoration work in Flower Hill Cemetery on the monuments of two Medal of Honor recipients, Civil War Sgt. Decatur Dorsey and World War I Sgt. Frank Bart. There, they discovered the grave of the British Marine. Since then the Society has included the British soldier on their annual Christmas wreath list. On April 7, the society visited Venables’ gravesite, just 200 feet from Rt 1&9 and decorated his grave with a Cross and British and American flags.

Michael Perrone photo

Nutley PD: 2 teens arrested, charged with occupied home burglary

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

Charges have been levied against two teenagers who Nutley police say are responsible for an early-morning occupied home burglary and the theft of a vehicle, the department said in a news released.

According to Det. Lt. Anthony Montanari, an exhaustive investigation

identified the two actors connected with a March 6 break-in on Alexander Avenue.

Chief Thomas Strumolo said the suspects reportedly entered the home at 4:21 a.m. through a rear door and stole the keys to a Land Rover parked in the driveway.

On March 7, the vehicle was recovered in East Orange, leading

investigators to develop evidence connecting suspects from Newark and East Orange.

Both juveniles were charged with conspiracy to commit burglary and motor vehicle theft.

Police Director Alfonse Petracco commended the police and said juveniles “seem to be the most active with these types of crimes. Our

investigators are spending countless hours following leads and charging those responsible, only to investigate them time and time again. We will continue to keep our residents and the Township of Nutley as safe as possible. Please secure your homes and vehicles and keep a watchful eye out for one another. If you see anyone acting suspiciously, call us immediately.”

Kearny PD says it made 10 DWI arrests in March alone

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

March, like every month, has been a busy one for the Kearny Police Department, but more

specifically, there have been a series of drunken-driving arrests this month, which put a major drain on police resources. (More on that later.)

Here’s a look at the 10 drunken-driving arrests this month, all as reported to us

by the Kearny Police Department.

l Jason M. Hurtado Guzman, 29, of Newark, was arrested and charged with DWI by Officer Brad Salinas on March 4. Hurtado Guzman was pulled over after swerv-

ing repeatedly at a high rate of speed and later refused to submit to the Alco-test. He received six summonses and did not have motor vehicle insurance.

l Eugene J. Groelly, 56, of Saddle Brook, was arrested and charged with DWI by Officer Angel Baez on March 7. This was Groelly’s second DWI arrest in Kearny, with the last one having occurred in 2019. Officer Baez found Groelly unresponsively drunk in the area of 175 Passaic Ave.. He received three traffic summonses after blowing more than double the legal limit for alcohol.

l Oswaldo J. Gonzales Tomateo, 35, of Kearny, was arrested and charged with DWI by Officer Thomas Collins on March 8. Gonzales Tomateo had been taking a drunken nap in his vehicle, which was parked in the middle of the roadway, completely blocking the flow of traffic. After blowing a blood-alcohol content of double the legal limit, he received three summonses.

l Diego A. Diaz Barrera, 34, of Bayonne, was arrested and charged with DWI by Officer Jose Castillo on March 15. Diaz Barrera had reportedly caused a four-vehicle crash and later blew double the

legal limit. He received four summonses.

l Francisco R. Vasquez-Peralta, 47, of Newark, was arrested and charged with DWI by Officer Ryan Carlos on March 16. This was the result of a motor vehicle stop in which Corona bottles were strewn about the vehicle. Vasquez-Peralta blew nearly double the legal limit and received six summonses, including one for having no insurance.

l A 17-year-old boy from Belleville was arrested and charged with DWI by Officer Brad Salinas on March 17. This occurred after Salinas pulled over a speeding and swerving vehicle at 330 a.m. The juvenile blew nearly double the legal limit and received six summonses.

l Alexandra M. Roman, 35, of Jersey City, was arrested and charged with DWI by Officer Brad Salinas on March 22. This was the result of a motor vehicle stop of a speeding vehicle, and after Salinas had determined that registered owner’s driving privileges were suspended. If speeding on a suspended license wasn’t enough, Roman had Modelo beers in her cup holders and was clearly in-

Photo illustration

SPORTS & HEALTH Offense leads the way for Kearny softball in opening week wins

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Following the graduation of four of its top five hitters from a season ago, including record setting slugger Maci Covello, it was fair to wonder how this year’s Kearny softball team was going to produce runs this spring.

If the first two games of the season are any indication, the offense will once again be a strength for the Kardinals.

Kearny opened its season by winning a wild, 16-15 slugfest at Hoboken on Thursday. Then, 24 hours later, went out and scored 11 more runs for an 11-6 victory over North Bergen.

“I was definitely surprised because of not just the amount of seniors we lost, but the quality of our seniors and their importance,” head coach Jim

Pickel said. “But this group has done pretty well. We had a lot of starters coming back.”

The most prominent of those returning starters is senior shortstop and leadoff hitter Sara Ryan. A four-year starter on the infield, Ryan hit .412 with 27 runs scored last season.

Hitting behind Ryan is freshman catcher Madison Rodriguez, who has already made an instant impact for Kearny. Rodriguez already has three doubles and four runs scored in her young career.

“I’ve been watching her play for a number of years now and I knew she could play at this level,” said Pickel, noting that Rodriguez has often played against older girls.’ Nothing really fazes her at all. She knows what she can do and she can compete with anybody.”

In the middle of the Kearny

lineup is senior outfielder Leilani Cabrera, who hit .310 with 16 RBI a season ago and is being counted upon to be the Kardinals top power hitter.

“She’s a three-year player for us and we’re really looking to see her take that next step,” said Pickel. “You can’t replace Maci, but we’re hoping (Leilani) is the one (who can help fill the role) with her bat.”

Junior Yaritza Cabrera, who hit .317, is another middle of the order bat, who will start in the outfield. Senior Nikki Carrera, who saw a lot of action at third base last year, will be in the mix in the outfield as well as junior centerfielder Jordan Bailey, senior Jaela Nalverte and sophomore Ava Natosi who, after missing all of last year due to a knee injury, hit a grand slam in the win over Hoboken.

Another sophomore primed

for a big role is Kathryn Schwerzler, who takes over at first base for the Kardinals with senior Mia Salwan also vying for time at the position. Junior Victoria Pereyra, who entered the starting lineup late last season, is set to be the main third baseman and already has three RBI this spring. Second base is expected to be shared by senior Ciara Irizarry and junior Alana Irizary, who are not related.

In the circle, Stephanie Bianchini takes over as the top pitcher after serving as the No. 2 behind Tianna Antunes the past two seasons.

Bianchini, a senior, might not have overpowering stuff, but makes up for it with good control.

“She showed some ability last year,” Pickel said of Bianchini, who tossed a four-hitter late in the year against St.

Dominic. “She’s not going to overpower anybody, but he’s kind of a little sneaky (with her pitches). She doesn’t really walk anybody, she pounds the strike zone and lets them put it in play.”

Freshman Cassandra Montalvo will also see some time in the circle for Kearny. Montalvo and Anastasia Guy will see some time at multiple positions this spring with Guy, a freshman, already serving as a pinch runner.

Kearny looked to continue its winning ways on Monday, April 8 when it traveled to Union City before hosting perennial county contender Hudson Catholic on Wednesday. The Kardinals will close out the week with independent road games at Harrison on Thursday and West Orange on Saturday.

Photo courtesy of Sydney Pace

Lyndhurst boys volleyball builds on last year’s late success

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

When the Lyndhurst boys volleyball team won its first ever state tournament game last May with an underclassmen-heavy roster, head coach John Lisella was hopeful it marked a turning point for the young program.

If the first week of this season is any indication, the momentum from last spring has certainly carried over.

With three consecutive wins to start the new season, the Golden Bears suddenly find themselves on top of the NJIC standings and poised to have its first winning record in eight years.

“They were ready to start working and start working together and I think that continuity that we finished with last year really carried over,” Lisella said. “In our scrimmages they looked really, really well and then just

carried along in the first week of the regular season.”

Leading the charge so far has been the lone senior starter, outside hitter, Matt Slaby. The 6-foot-4 Slaby had a team-best 11 kills in wins over Becton and Wood-Ridge and has 24 for the season.

“I’ve yet to see another team where he’s not the best athlete on the court,” said Lisella. “He’s just so long and jumps so high and is a complete game changer at the net with his hitting ability.”

Slaby is one of five Golden Bears with 10 or more kills through the first three matches, a testament to the team’s depth on offense.

“Last year (Matt) was kind of our only guy and I feel like this year guys have stepped up,” Lisella said. “This season, we’re pretty spread out with who’s getting kills for us. A couple different guys are now joining

in on the blocks, which is huge. It’s been kind of fun to see other guys now step up in their second and third years starting for us.”

Among those other offensive threats is fellow outside hitter, is junior Cyprian Niedbal, a left-handed hitter and one of the team’s top servers.

“He is coming at a different angle, could kind of get it up and over the blockers to get us points,” Lisella said. “He’s a

really solid server. He always starts off our games as our first server. He’s very solid in the back as well and a good athlete.”

One of the things that makes this Lyndhurst team unique is its ability to use juniorBartu Akar and sophomore Robert Dasler Jr. both as setters or opposite hitters. It’s a format that has worked well for the Bears with Akar recording 27 assists and 10 kills, while Dasler Jr. has 19 assists and 10 kills.

“It’s made things pretty easy because all the time we have guys that can set on the court, which is a great thing and they’re kind of getting more comfortable with it,” Lisella said. “If the ball’s not coming right to whoever the setter is at that time, we have someone else in place that could easily just pick the ball up and get it to one of our hitters.

“It’s a lot to ask of those two.

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But they’ve done a really good job so far both setting and hitting.”

In the middle are juniors

Angel Rojas (10 kills) and Robert Curcio (six kills). Sophomore Jan Lesnicki brings added depth to the position as well.

On the backline, sophomore Max Dmochowski is a returning starter at libero and has 25 digs so far this season.

“He got a little bit bigger, a little bit stronger, a little bit more athletic,” said Lisella. “He’s been great back there. He’s kind of an unsung hero at that position, loves doing it.”

Lyndhurst is set to face its greatest challenge of the young season on Tuesday when it travels to face a Garfield team that is also undefeated in NJIC play. Then, after a home match with North Arlington, the Golden Bears will face Harrison on Monday, April 15.

Photo by Jason Bernstein Matt Slaby

Harrison softball looks to continue to improve

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

It hasn’t always been an easy process, but the Harrison softball continued its steady progress a season ago when it won seven games including its first Hudson County Tournament victory in six years.

And while quite a few of the players that helped the Blue Tide go from two wins to four and then seven have graduated, there is still a strong veteran core, which combined with some promising underclassmen, who are looking to continue to build upon the program’s growth in recent years.

So far, the Blue Tide are 1-2 on the new season.

“We’ve always had a little bit

of (veterans teaching the younger girls) over the last two years and you see it more as the girls are starting to grow in the program,” head coach Keith Mair said. “Every year we’ve gotten a little better and hopefully that continues.”

A big reason why Harrison believes it can continue its upward trajectory is the one-two tandem at the top of the Blue Tide lineup in juniors Rebecca Sardinha and Hailey Scocco. Sardinha is expected to leadoff for Harrison with Scocco currently set to hit second.

Through the first three games, Sardinha and Scocco are tied for the team lead in runs (5) and stolen bases (8).

“They set the tone for practice

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and they set the tone for the lineup,” said Mair. “They’re expected to lead off and get on base.”

Scocco made an instant impact at shortstop a season ago, her first at Harrison when she hit .413 with four homers, 22 runs, 18 RBI and 23 stolen bases. Combined with a big arm at short, Scocco is one of the hidden gems in North Jersey.

Said Mair, “she can take over a game with her bat, her speed and her glove.”

Sardinha meanwhile moves from second base to third this year after hitting .342 with 17 walks, 18 runs, 13 RBI and 18 stolen bases.

“Her confidence has changed,

especially the confidence in her approach (at bat),” said Mair. “She’s going up there fully locked in, ready to go.”

Sardinha isn’t the only one of the Blue Tide’s four captains changing positions this spring as Elizabeth Faulk (15 runs scored) moves from left field to first base.

The fourth of Harrison’s captains is a mainstay in the circle as Danica Carr begins her fourth season as the team’s top pitcher. Carr, who nearly cut her ERA in half last season, struck out 74 batters in 85 innings, while significantly improving her control. That continual improvement and offseason work with a pitching coach has Mair optimistic that

another leap forward is in her future.

“She always tries to add a pitch,” Mair said. “She has a pitching coach who works with her so she always tries to add something to her arsenal.

“(In her first scrimmage) she came in and she pretty much dominated. She didn’t have her velocity going until later in the game, but she had everything else working pretty well.”

Madison Morales and Ally Carbajal will also see some spot innings in the circle as well.

They’ll be pitching to a new catcher in 2024 as senior Yulen-

See HARRISON, Page 12

HARRISON

Continued from Page 9

innings in the circle as well. They’ll be pitching to a new catcher in 2024 as senior Yulenny DeLeon takes over behind the plate after serving as the backup the last two seasons. Junior Helen Martinez will also see time at catcher as the backup.

Sophomore Breaghan Toal takes over as the starting second baseman.

Harrison will sport an entirely new outfield this spring. Senior Yamile Bermudez, who didn’t play last season, is back and takes over as the starting center fielder. Freshman Kyleen Galarza has emerged in preseason and will be the starter in left field. Both have gotten off to fast starts as Ber-

mudez has a team-best six RBI and Galarza has added five.

Right field is currently a three-way competition with Morales and freshman twins Thalia and Romina Sosa.

Mair is hopeful that the outfield will be bolstered later in the spring as Samantha Guerrero works her way back from an injury suffered at the start of last season.

Belleville celebrates Legion’s 105th

Easter Egg Hunt

Answer Key!

Freshman Daniela Gutierrez will also find herself in the outfield mix as well as at first base, while senior Yanirys Amador is set to see time at several positions across the diamond.

Page 3 You Call We Clean

Page 5 Hydrant Flushing

Page 5 Effective Alarm

Page 7 HCCC

Page 10 DeLuca

Page 8 Dust Busters

Page 14 Bixler

Page 15 MidRealty

Winner announced on Page 19!

Harrison begins what will likely be its toughest week of the whole season when it plays St. Mary’s of Rutherford on Monday, April 8. The Blue Tide host rival Kearny on Thursday and then play defending Hudson County champion Weehawken on Friday.

Contributed photo

The American Legion turned 105 on March 15 and to celebrate this, the Belleville Post 105 celebrated the anniversary with a cake and with a brief ceremony attended by around 50 members.

ARE YOUR KIDS EXPERIENCEING HYPEROPIA?

Children with a higher optical prescription should wear their glasses full time, while those with lower levels of hyperopia may not need glasses at all except when reading, writing, or doing other types of near work. To schedule an appointment, please call 201896-0096. Our office is located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.

P.S. Typical symptoms of farsightedness (hyperopia) are close objects that look blurry, squinting to see close objects clearly, and eyestrain, which includes headaches, burning eyes, and general eye discomfort.

Hyperopia is the medical term for farsightedness. Farsightedness means you can see objects in the distance clearly, but close objects appear blurry. Most people with hyperopia are born with it, and it tends to run in families. People who develop hyperopia later in life are usually also diagnosed with presbyopia, or age-related vision loss. This means that young children are most at-risk for untreated farsightedness. Kids should have a complete eye exam to screen for eye diseases and vision loss at six months, three years, and again before first grade, followed by screenings every two years at wellness visits. For most people, hyperopia is effectively treated with corrective lenses, and eye surgery may also be an option.

www.delucavision.com

Emily J. Pallotti

Emily J. Pallotti, lovingly known as “Billie,” died peacefully at home on March 21, 2024, surrounded by her adoring family at the blessed age of 106.

Emily was born in Elizabeth on Sept. 5, 1917 during World War I, the second of six children, to Beatrice and Edward Maleski, who immigrated from Poland. Emily married Joseph Pallotti in 1937, during the Great Depression, residing in Kearny. She was happily married for 42

OBITUARIES

years until her husband’s death in 1979.

Upon her retirement in 1983 from Work-O-Lite in Belleville as a switchboard operator, Emily moved to Locust, New Jersey, along with her daughter Elsie, and son-in-law Ray. As a newcomer to Monmouth County, Emily immediately found her footing, volunteering at Riverview Hospital, visiting patients and delivering flowers, sharing smiles and spreading joy.

Emily’s passions were vast and varied, and she loved all dogs, but none more than her beloved Sarah, a stray that adopted Emily shortly after she moved to Locust. Sarah accompanied Emily everywhere, whether it was a trip to the

grocery store or a ride to the Windmill for a hotdog. Sarah was always at her side.

Emily was very proud of her beautiful flower garden. Always a fancier of ladybugs, which symbolize good luck, positive change and renewal, we will forever be reminded of her at the sight of a ladybug.

An avid reader, she especially enjoyed biographies of historical figures and old time Hollywood celebrities. In later years, she enjoyed watching endless episodes of Judge Judy. When asked what her secret to longevity was, she didn’t hesitate to share that secret by saying it was a night nip of Bailey’s Irish Cream.

But Emily’s true passion was

5 tips to combat insomnia as you age

As you age, various factors can lead to sleep problems. You have a lot going on in your later years, including retirement moving, chronic pain or financial stress due to dwindling income sources. Your biological clock can also go out of sync. If you suffer from insomnia, here are eight tips to help you sleep better:

1. Maintain a routine. Always go to bed and get up at the same time, but don’t stay in bed if you’re not asleep after 20 minutes or so. It may cause your brain to associate lying in bed with being awake.

2. Reserve the bedroom for sleeping and intimate moments. It shouldn’t become a place for entertainment or work.

3. Practice relaxing activities, like reading, yoga, bathing and meditation, before going to bed.

4. Don’t have stimulating drinks like coffee, pop or alcoholic beverages in the evening and don’t drink too much before going to bed.

5. Create an environment that’s conducive to sleep by keeping the temperature cool

Miracle Prayer

Dear Sacred Heart Of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours, this time I ask you this special one favour. Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it in your own broken heart where our Father sees it, then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine. AMEN. Say this prayer for 3 days and promise publication and favor will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail.

M.F.

and blocking out as many light sources as possible. If necessary, use a sleep mask.

Novena to St. Jude

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. Please grant my request. Say this prayer 9 times a day. By the 9th day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you Saint Jude.

her deep and abiding love for her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and that love was reciprocated.

She will be dearly missed by her devoted daughter Elsie and son-in-law Ray Catena; her granddaughters Doreen and husband Mark Woldseth, and Sandra and husband James Buchanan; and three great-grandchildren Raymond, Sydney and Cash, who lit up her world every time she saw them.

We are comforted to know Emily is happily and peace-

All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission.

fully reunited with her loving husband Joe; her grandson Raymond Jr.; sisters Carol Maleski and Mary Frank, brothers Robert, Adam and Lindberg and her many friends who passed before her.

With our gratitude and love, a private Memorial Service celebrating our Beloved Billie took place at All Saints Church, Navesink.

Memorial donations may be made to Hackensack Meridian Hospice, 343 Thornall St., Edison, N.J. 08837 or Monmouth County SPCA, 260 Wall St., Eatontown, N.J. 07724.

You will feel as if friends of family have taken over when you entrust funeral arrangements to the Wilfred Armitage Funeral Home. The family-owned firm has been in business for 100 years, serving generations in West Hudson and South Bergen. Its beautiful facilities, in a setting reminiscent of a colonial mansion, reflect the graciousness and tact of its understanding personnel.

Think you can’t refinance because values are down?

PARKING

Continued from Page 5

instance could be levied by police or parking-violation officers.

The adoption of this ordinance is the first in what likely will be others governing parking in Kearny. Over the last year, the governing body hosted a series of public meetings to seek input from residents. After that process finished, members of the Town Council submitted their priorities from notes and comments to Mayor Carol Jean Doyle. Further adjustments to how the parking dilemma is addressed, especially in residential areas of the First and Second wards, are forthcoming.

One aspect of it all that appears to be DOA is the concept of a parking utility or authority. During the input process, residents came out vehemently against such an entity — and that includes the creation of a parking-sticker system.

NAPL hosting special Jack the Ripper program

The North Arlington Public Library hosts “Jack the Ripper: a Mystery of Mysteries,” by Mark Vogel, Saturday, April 13, at 1 p.m. Vogel, a clinical psychologist who used to write a food column for The Observer, has studied this cold case extensively, reviewing original police files and visiting the murder sites.

He will discuss the identity of Jack the Ripper and other mysteries contained within this mystery. Was the Ripper a doctor? Did he have an accomplice?

Why did he keep some of the victims’ organs? Are the famous Ripper letters authentic or a hoax?

How was he able to avoid being caught? Why did he stop killing?

Vogel’s books will be available for sale after the program. Space is limited. Visit the NAPL’s Reference Desk to register.

Newark - $996,838 - 1 Fam. - TO BE CONSTRUCTED - This luxurious, soon-to-be-constructed colonial boasts 5 beds and 5 1/2 baths, offering a multitude of amenities. Located in the sought-after Forest Hill neighborhood, it provides convenient access to shopping, schools, restaurants, and transportation options to NYC via bus and train. The expansive 1st floor showcases an open floor plan, with a generously-sized kitchen featuring a walk-in pantry, SS appliances, and a functional island that overlooks the bright and inviting dine/room, fam/ room, and lounge area. Additionally, the 1st floor includes an ensuite flex/bed with a f/bath, as well as an extra 1/2 bath. Enjoy relaxing evenings on the rear deck that offers views of the backyard. The 2nd floor boasts 2 primary beds with full baths and walk-in clsts, along with two addl beds and another full bath. The 3rd floor of the home features an oversized game room, flex/bed, and a full bath. The unfinished basement presents further opportunities for customization and addl living space.

Newark - $996,838 - 1 Fam. - TO BE CONSTRUCTED - This luxurious, soon-to-be-constructed colonial boasts 5 beds and 5 1/2 baths, offering a multitude of amenities. Located in the sought-after Forest Hill neighborhood, it provides convenient access to shopping, schools, restaurants, and transportation options to NYC via bus and train. The expansive 1st floor showcases an open floor plan, with a generously-sized kitchen featuring a walk-in pantry, SS appliances, and a functional island that overlooks the bright and inviting dine/room, fam/ room, and lounge area. Additionally, the 1st floor includes an ensuite flex/bed with a f/bath, as well as an extra 1/2 bath. Enjoy relaxing evenings on the rear deck that offers views of the backyard. The 2nd floor boasts 2 primary beds with full baths and walk-in clsts, along with two addl beds and another full bath. The 3rd floor of the home features an oversized game room, flex/bed, and a full bath. The unfinished basement presents further opportunities for customization and addl living space.

Kearny - $300,000

1 Fam. - 1 Bdrm -Full Bath - LR -Ktchn -sold strictly “as is”. Possibly a knock down property.

$2,500 2nd Floor Apt.2 bdrms - 2 full bths, Luxury New Brand new apartments, central air, hardwood flrs, laundry in unit, stainless steel appliances.

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201-991-1600) to place an ad. While The Observer can accept public notice, we cannot accept legal advertising.

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201-991-1600) to place an ad. While The Observer can accept public notice, we cannot accept legal advertising.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

BELLEVILLE Newly renovated. 2 BR, LR, DR, Kitchen & full bathe. C/A.

BLOOMFIELD NEWARK KEARNY

FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT

KEARNY Newly renovated 2nd floor,2 BR, LR. kitchen, $2100 + 1.5 months security. utlilities separate. Parking included. Washer/ dryer hook-up. Couple preferred. Share basement. No Pets/smoking Available Now(908)3378472 49W03

BLOOMFIELD 3 BR, LR, DR, Kitchen, Utilities included HW/HT. No Pets/Smoking Avl. May 1st. (973) 868-4991 Se habla español 48W03

HARRISON 2nd Floor.

2 Bedrooms, LR,EIK, Close to PATH & Schools

$1,800 + 1 Month security. Utilities Separate. No Pets/Smoking Available May 1st. (201)6676857 49W03

HARRISON 1st floor. 1 BR, LR, EIK, 1 bath, Laundry in unit. $1800 + 1.5 months security. Utilities included, including internet. Access to backyard patio. Close to Transportation. No Smoking/Pets Available Now (732)429-9372

N. ARLINGTON

N. ARLINGTON 1st Fl. 1 BR, LR, DR, EIK With yard. Quiet Building. Near Transportation. $1500 + Plus utilities. 1 1/2 months security. No Dogs/Smoking Credit check. Available March 1st (973)838-1662 45W06

FOR RENT

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

TECHNICAL ASSISTANT, MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Salary Range ($46,874-$70,702) DEFINITION:

The Town of Kearny seeks an Information Technology (IT) /Management Information Systems (MIS) Technical Assistant with strong communication, organizational, and technical skills. Under supervision, is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the Town’s Information Technology (IT) and Management Information Systems (MIS) computer network(s). Applicants must be familiar with maintaining a network’s active directory and IP addresses. Applicants should have strong customer services skills to provide troubleshooting in person and through a helpdesk ticketing system. Applicants should be familiar with industry best practices for installation, operation and maintenance of servers, switches, racks, cabling, and UPS equipment. Applicants should be knowledgeable with installation and operation of both hardware and software. Applicants must be familiar with cyber security best practices involving the installation, operation and maintenance of web filters and firewalls. Applicants should be familiar with Microsoft 365 environment. Applicants should have a working knowledge of how to program and configure mobile phones and the Town’s Avaya telephone network. The successful candidate will also be required to attend evening meetings of the Mayor and Council and operate the audio/visual system in the council chambers. Applicants must possess a valid New Jersey Driver’s License. Applications are due April 12, 2024. The Town reserves the right to hire the best qualified candidate before the application due date.

For Application and instructions see: https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 46W04

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

application Go to https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 48W04

CHARTER BOAT FISHING

Basslines Sportfishing Charters

Trips Book Now! Striped

Five tips for having a successful job interview

It looks like your resume wasn’t put at the bottom of the pile; you’ve been called in for an interview! When you find out you’re on the short list of candidates for your dream job, it’s only normal to be stressed. Not feeling that way would in fact be a bad sign, unless, of course, you’re used to this sort of meeting. A job interview is a vital part of the process, for which you have to prepare both mentally and physically.

1. Punctuality, politeness, and looking smart are essentials that are not included in your resume, but they are big factors in getting further in the process. Feel free to consult a family member for advice if this is your first job interview.

2. Read up on the company. Think of questions you might ask about the company during the interview. Wait for the right time to ask them, bearing in mind that you are not the person in charge of the meeting and conversation flow.

3. A job interview is not a questionnaire with multiple choice answers. You must answer all questions, while

remaining honest, positive, and constructive. Hesitating from time to time will not be interpreted as a failing. Thinking before answering demonstrates that you are interested in the question.

4. In your answers, show how your skills, strengths, ambitions, and particular interest in this company can be of benefit to the employer. Without actually saying so outright, demonstrate that you are the best candidate

on the list.

5 Be ready to discuss working conditions, including salary. Opening the door to such a discussion will give you a good idea of what to expect.

Lastly, do not hesitate to ask what the follow-up to this interview will be. This is a question that deserves an honest and accurate answer.

It is important to prepare both mentally and physically before a job interview.

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201-991-1600) to place an ad. While The Observer can accept public notice, we cannot accept legal advertising.

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201-991-1600) to place an ad. While The Observer can accept public notice, we cannot accept legal advertising.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

BELLEVILLE Newly renovated. 2 BR, LR, DR, Kitchen & full bathe. C/A.

BLOOMFIELD NEWARK KEARNY

FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT

KEARNY Newly renovated 2nd floor,2 BR, LR. kitchen, $2100 + 1.5 months security. utlilities separate. Parking included. Washer/ dryer hook-up. Couple preferred. Share basement. No Pets/smoking Available Now(908)3378472 49W03

BLOOMFIELD 3 BR, LR, DR, Kitchen, Utilities included HW/HT. No Pets/Smoking Avl. May 1st. (973) 868-4991 Se habla español 48W03

HARRISON 2nd Floor.

2 Bedrooms, LR,EIK, Close to PATH & Schools

$1,800 + 1 Month security. Utilities Separate. No Pets/Smoking Available May 1st. (201)6676857 49W03

HARRISON 1st floor. 1 BR, LR, EIK, 1 bath, Laundry in unit. $1800 + 1.5 months security. Utilities included, including internet. Access to backyard patio. Close to Transportation. No Smoking/Pets Available Now (732)429-9372

N. ARLINGTON

N. ARLINGTON 1st Fl. 1 BR, LR, DR, EIK With yard. Quiet Building. Near Transportation. $1500 + Plus utilities. 1 1/2 months security. No Dogs/Smoking Credit check. Available March 1st (973)838-1662 45W06

FOR RENT

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

TECHNICAL ASSISTANT, MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Salary Range ($46,874-$70,702) DEFINITION:

The Town of Kearny seeks an Information Technology (IT) /Management Information Systems (MIS) Technical Assistant with strong communication, organizational, and technical skills. Under supervision, is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the Town’s Information Technology (IT) and Management Information Systems (MIS) computer network(s). Applicants must be familiar with maintaining a network’s active directory and IP addresses. Applicants should have strong customer services skills to provide troubleshooting in person and through a helpdesk ticketing system. Applicants should be familiar with industry best practices for installation, operation and maintenance of servers, switches, racks, cabling, and UPS equipment. Applicants should be knowledgeable with installation and operation of both hardware and software. Applicants must be familiar with cyber security best practices involving the installation, operation and maintenance of web filters and firewalls. Applicants should be familiar with Microsoft 365 environment. Applicants should have a working knowledge of how to program and configure mobile phones and the Town’s Avaya telephone network. The successful candidate will also be required to attend evening meetings of the Mayor and Council and operate the audio/visual system in the council chambers. Applicants must possess a valid New Jersey Driver’s License. Applications are due April 12, 2024. The Town reserves the right to hire the best qualified candidate before the application due date.

For Application and instructions see: https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 46W04

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

application Go to https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 48W04

CHARTER BOAT FISHING

Basslines Sportfishing Charters

Trips Book Now! Striped

Five tips for having a successful job interview

It looks like your resume wasn’t put at the bottom of the pile; you’ve been called in for an interview! When you find out you’re on the short list of candidates for your dream job, it’s only normal to be stressed. Not feeling that way would in fact be a bad sign, unless, of course, you’re used to this sort of meeting. A job interview is a vital part of the process, for which you have to prepare both mentally and physically.

1. Punctuality, politeness, and looking smart are essentials that are not included in your resume, but they are big factors in getting further in the process. Feel free to consult a family member for advice if this is your first job interview.

2. Read up on the company. Think of questions you might ask about the company during the interview. Wait for the right time to ask them, bearing in mind that you are not the person in charge of the meeting and conversation flow.

3. A job interview is not a questionnaire with multiple choice answers. You must answer all questions, while

remaining honest, positive, and constructive. Hesitating from time to time will not be interpreted as a failing. Thinking before answering demonstrates that you are interested in the question.

4. In your answers, show how your skills, strengths, ambitions, and particular interest in this company can be of benefit to the employer. Without actually saying so outright, demonstrate that you are the best candidate

on the list.

5 Be ready to discuss working conditions, including salary. Opening the door to such a discussion will give you a good idea of what to expect.

Lastly, do not hesitate to ask what the follow-up to this interview will be. This is a question that deserves an honest and accurate answer.

It is important to prepare both mentally and physically before a job interview.

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201-991-1600) to place an ad. While The Observer can accept public notice, we cannot accept

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201-991-1600) to place an ad. While The Observer can accept public notice, we cannot accept legal advertising.

Applicants must be prepared to provide personal information, including but not limited to income and asset information, when filling out the application. Applicants will be required to declare U.S. Citizenship or submit evidence of eligible immigration status with their application. You must provide a copy of a valid photo ID.

Applicants passing our preliminary eligibility determination process will be placed on our waiting list in the order (date & time) in which the completed application is received at Mount Carmel Towers. Applications will not be accepted after 4:00 pm on April 25th. Applications can also be emailed with a photo ID copy, to mct@hillcrestmanagement.com.

Qualified applicant households must be: •62 years of age and over or disabled or handicapped of legal age and •Annual household income must not exceed:

1 Person Household $42,650

2 Person Household $48,750

Please note, the waiting list is being opened for STUDIOS ONLY!

Persons who as a result of their disability need assistance with the application process, may contact Diana Crespo, Tenant Liaison at 973-678-6662 or email mct@hillcrestmanagement.com 49W01

Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows:

The Plaintiff, Djuna Crawford-Thomas, has filed a Complaint seeking an absolute divorce upon the ground that Plaintiff and Defendant have lived separate and apart for more than one year next preceding the bringing of this action.

You are required to make a defense to such pleading no later than forty (40 days) after Apil 10, 2024, and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service against you will apply to the Court for the relief sought.

This, the 10th day of April, 2024.

Eric S. Meredith, Esq. Attorney for Plaintiff, Jetton & Meredith, PLLC, 817 E. Trade Street, Charlotte, NC 28202 704-333-1114 [4/10/2024, 4/17/2024, 4/24/2024] 48W03

KPD

Continued from Page 8

toxicated. She later refused to submit to breath testing and received five summonses.

l Ian M. Alvarez, 32, of Linden, was arrested and charged with DWI by Officer Michael Ore on March 23.

POLICE BEAT

Officer Ore pulled the vehicle over after he observed it speeding on a dirt road on

South Kearny at almost 4 a.m. He located a 750mL bottle of liquor in the vehicle and Alvarez received three summonses after blowing nearly double the legal limit.

l Emily E. Allieri, 26, of Boonton, was arrested and charged with DWI and possession of controlled dangerous substance(s) by Officer Andre Fernandes on March 25. Officer Fernandes found the driver passed out from intoxication, despite having just crashed into another vehicle.

Several liquor bottles were found on the front seat as well as various quantities of substances, including ketamine (which would explain remaining passed out after a crash).

Allieri received three summonses in addition to criminal charges for possessing the aforementioned substances. A blood sample was obtained which awaits processing.

l Daniel Velazquez, 39, of North Arlington, was arrested and charged with DWI by Officer Angel Baez on March 30.

This was the result of Velazquez blowing through a red light in front of Officer Baez, leading to a motor vehicle stop. Three bottles of beer were found inside the vehicle and Velazquez received three summonses after blowing nearly double the legal limit.

Editor’s note: Aside from the obvious putting the lives of anyone in their way in danger drivers who drive drunk also place a massive drain on resources of each police department.

One officer tells The Observer one drunken-driving arrest could keep a police officer off the streets, filing the necessary paperwork, from anywhere from 2 to 4 hours.

Additionally, police have seen a noticeable uptick in drivers who do so without minimum liability insurance. With Uber and Lyft everywhere in this area, there is absolutely no reason for there to be a single DWI arrest and yet there were 10 this month.

REPORTS

Continued from Page 1

Results released by College Board in February, which rank New Jersey second in the country for highest percentage of schools offering at least one AP course.

The data also highlights areas for improvement, such as K-12 chronic absenteeism rates, which decreased from 18.1% in 2021-2022 to 16.6% last year, but remain above pre-pandemic levels of 10.6% in 2018-2019.

Over the next few weeks, The Observer will report on the local high school reports. However, reports for all public schools in the state may be found online at rc.doe.state.nj.us

Kearny High School

Kearny High School’s 202223 enrollment was 1,804, an increase from 1,725 students the year prior. The student body is 54% male and 46% female. Of those enrolled, the state says 54.2% of all students at Kearny HS are at an economic disadvantage. Additionally, 16.4% of those enrolled have one or more disability; 14.7% are learning the English language for the first time; .7% are unhoused; and .1% are in foster care.

Ethnically, 68.1% of those enrolled are Latino, 26.5% are white, 2.7% are Asian, 2.2% are Black

Some 43.3% speak Spanish at home, while 42.6.% speak English, 11% Portuguese and 3% speak other languages.

Kearny High School’s 4-year graduation rate is 90.8%

(statewide it’s 91.1%) and over 5-years, the rate is 92.9%. Kearny sends 86% of its high school graduates onto post-secondary education.

The high school boasts 137 teachers who average 12.3 years of experience, 12.2 in Kearny. More than 79% of KHS teachers have at least four years of teaching experience.

The student-teacher ratio is 13:1. Women represent 60% of all teachers while men are at 40%. Despite the school’s population, the faculty demographics are not as representative thereof. Some 81% of Kearny HS teachers are white, 15.3% are Latino, 2.9% are Asian and .7% are Black.

On the faculty, all at least have a bachelor’s degree, while 53.3% have master’s degrees. Around 1.5% have doctoral degrees.

Harrison High School

Harrison High School’s 202223 enrollment is 760 students, up from 717 the year prior and 664 in 2020-21. The student body is 52-48% male. Nearly 84% of all students enrolled at Harrison High School are

considered economically disadvantaged. There are 12.5% who have one or more learning disabilities. One quarter of all students enrolled at Harrison HS are not native English speakers; 1.2% report homelessness.

Harrison HS’s 4-year graduation rate is 91.9% ; over 5-years, it’s 89.7%. Of those enrolled, 83.4% are Latino, 14.1% are white, 4.8% are Asian, 2.9% are Black.

Of the graduates, 83% go onto post-secondary education and training.

At home, Spanish is spoken in 57% of households, while 30.3% speak English, 8.4% speak Portuguese and 4.35 speak other languages.

Harrison HS has 52 total teachers with an average of 14 years of teaching experience overall, 11.3 years in the district. Of the faculty, 45 have at least four years of experience in the district.

The school has a 15:1 student to teacher ratio. Of the teachers, 76.9% are white, 17.3% are Latino and Black and Asian teachers represent 1.9% each. Of the faculty, 50% have master’s degrees.

This is just a snapshot of details available for each school

and district. Detailed reports include information on academic achievement, including assessments of student in language arts, math and science. College and career readiness is assessed. Per-pupil expenditures are also available, with comparison to the state’s average.

Flushing removes harmless minerals that collect in the water mains. The project is part of the Town routine maintenance program to assure high water quality. Flushing hydrants help to maintain the integrity of the distribution system by keeping the water lines clean. It is also necessary for fire protection because flushing ensures that the hydrants are working properly.

During the flushing process, customers may experience low water pressure or discolored water. While the water is safe to drink, customers may prefer to wait until it runs clear before drinking or washing clothes or dishes.