2017 11 22 obs1

November 22, 2017 • www.theobserver.com • Vol CXXX, No. 29 To our readers & advertisers

The Observer’s office will be closed Nov. 23 & 24.

COVERING: BELLEVILLE • BLOOMFIELD • EAST NEWARK • HARRISON • KEARNY • LYNDHURST • NORTH ARLINGTON • NUTLEY

STATE CHAMPS!

Photo by Jim Hague

The Kearny Kards have won their first Group IV soccer state title since 2004. See the story, more photos, on page 13.

Salvation Army kicks off annual Kettle campaign

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com KEARNY — The Salvation Army kicked off its 2017 kettle campaign on Friday, Nov. 17, with a ribbon cutting and ceremo-

ny at Town Hall that featured music, prayer and speeches.

This year, the Salvation Army hopes to raise $85,000 from kettle donations.

The campaign was already underway at many locations in Kearny and the greater West Hudson area.

Each year, the Salvation Army sets up the kettles outside supermarkets, pharmacies and larger stores.

The bell ringers are either volunteers or seasonal employees who man the stations for several hours at a time.

At the ceremony, Corps Officer Lt. Hwang Lim offered a welcome address. Kearny Mayor Alberto Santos offered remarks. Maj. Charles Drummond offered the opening prayer and Elena Nakrosis offered words on behalf of the advisory board.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

Melham announces bid for Belleville mayor

By Ron Leir rleir@theobserver.com BELLEVILLE – Well ahead of the statutory filing deadline, Michael Melham has stepped up to announce his intention to

run for the office of Belleville mayor.

The incumbent, Mayor Raymond Kimble, whose four-year term expires next year, is expected to seek re-election in the May 2018

municipal election. He has yet to make it official.

Two at-large council seats are also up for grabs.

Councilman Kevin Kennedy, who occupies one of those seats, figures to run again.

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Michael Melham has announced his candidacy for Belleville mayor.

The other seat was vacated when the council voted to recall its occupant Joseph Longo, who had previously resigned but then sought to change the effective date of his resignation.

Longo is currently living in Florida where he works for Staples.

Charles Hood, a retired township deputy police chief, has been mentioned as a likely candidate for the seat formerly occupied by Longo.

Melham, who served as Fourth Ward representative on the Township Council from 2000 to 2004, declared his candidacy for the township’s highest office last month at a rally for family and friends at Nanina’s in the Park.

No stranger to controversy, Melham — who was dumped as the township webmaster after having fallen out of political favor with the township administration — sued the township in federal court after he alleged the township interfered with his efforts to erect a commercial business next to the Town Hall parking lot.

“Belleville needs a leader,” Melham, 42, said in an interview with The Observer.

The township, he said, is mired in a “rudderless” local government. “In the past decade, I’ve seen other towns in the area grow while Belleville has missed the mark because of lack of leadership.”

The township’s elected leaders, he said, have betrayed faithful longtime residents by “driving them out with ridiculously high taxes” and have ignored Belleville’s “40% Hispanic presence.”

“Government forms like permit applications are not translated into Spanish and there is no Spanish spoken at Town Hall,” Melham said, so no one can interpret for a Latino constituent.

Belleville has remained a backwater community, Melham said, in part, because of a poor image. No one is involved in promoting the township, he added.

One way that can be done is through technology, the candidate said. “Our township website is not responsive to the community, meaning it cannot render to a tablet or mobile phone.

“We need to increase our

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Inside this edition ...

Business Reviews ............................................................7&9 Opinion ....................................................................................08 Around Town..........................................................................11 Food & Dining Directory.....................................................12 Sports & Recreation ............................................................13 Health & Wellness Directory.................................................17 Real Estate..............................................................................18 Obituaries ...............................................................................21 Classifieds...............................................................................22 Business Directory ..............................................................26

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

03

N.A.’s Granell will seek mayor’s seat

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com Former North Arlington Councilman Albert Granell has announced his candidacy for mayor of the southern Bergen County borough. He says he has already gathered “well above” the requisite 100 petition signatures to be on the ballot for the June 2018 primary election.

Granell, a Democrat, first rose to political prominence back in 2006 when several elected members of his party, including former Mayor Russ Pitman, got behind a redevelopment plan called “EnCap.” Granell and his slate swept to a primary victory that year on an anti-EnCap platform, leaving Pitman and several of his allies as lame ducks for the rest of that year.

Granell and his slate won that November and ultimately, along with former Mayor Peter Massa, was able to put an end to EnCap after a long, drawn-out fight.

But a lot has changed since 2006 — and Granell says he had no other choice but to run for the borough’s CEO seat. (It’s not immediately clear whether there will be other candidates from his party — and it’s not immediately clear whether sitting Republican Mayor Joseph Bianchi will seek re-election. If and when it

becomes clear, we will bring that news to you.)

Ironically, it wasn’t a local issue that drove him to run (initially, at least.) It was his work for former presidential candidate and U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., that gave him the first push to run.

“I was a delegate and saw so many differing views with Sanders,” Granell told The Observer. “I saw that we needed joint solutions to issues. And locally, we’re not working jointly. At all.”

Granell pointed to the election just a few weeks ago as an example.

“People aren’t voting,” he said. “Do you know how many didn’t vote in that election? It was 76% of the registered voters. That means in an election for governor, only 24% of the people voted.

Why is that? I believe it’s because people see the people running aren’t addressing issues. They don’t see results.

Yes, the FedEx project is good. But it’s just not enough.

“Our schools are not revamped. Residents are apathetic. The voters have had enough.”

Granell says this is what he hears when he walks door-todoor in the borough — and he says campaigning at people’s homes has been an eye opener.

“They want to see candidates at their doors,”

he said. “They want to tell me what frustrates them.

They want to see more things happening here. They’re tired of having to go to other towns that have things for people to do while nothing big is happening here.”

Granell, who grew up in Jersey City, has lived in North Arlington for 35+ years. He says the issues the borough faces are not partisan at all.

“It’s not about ‘D’ or ‘R,’ it’s about North Arlington,” Granell said. “My campaign

will put people over politics no matter what.”

The mayoral candidate says he plans to have a full slate of candidates for the council, too, but he wasn’t ready, just yet, to commit to naming them.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

South Kearny warming center is open

By Ron Leir rleir@theobserver.com The Hudson County Warming Center was scheduled to open its doors at 53 S. Hackensack Ave., Kearny, on Wednesday, Nov. 15, but

Mother Nature intervened.

Bone-chilling winter-like temperatures forecast for Friday evening, Nov. 10, and Saturday night, Nov. 11, triggered an early opening by the center operator, Urban Renewal Corp., said James

Kennelly, spokesman for the county executive’s office.

URC picked up homeless adults those nights at the Hoboken Shelter, 300 Bloomfield St., and in Jersey City, at the taxi stand at Sip and Bergen Aves., to take people to

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the center. URC was to then transport those folks back to Jersey City and Hoboken after 9 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.

An outreach team is prepared to “engage and register individuals for any one [of the county’s] existing shelters and the Warming Center,” Kennelly said.

The Hudson County Board of Freeholders voted Nov. 7 to extend its contract with URC as the center operator for $319,519 for the period from November 2017 through March 31, 2020.

URC is to “operate a lowbarrier warming center for up to 75 homeless individuals. It will provide a warm and safe place for unsheltered homeless individuals to spend the night during the winter months.”

Under terms of its contract, the center “is designed to be a place of last resort for unsheltered individuals. All emergency shelter beds and overflow slots throughout Hudson County should be filled to the greatest extent possible prior to an individual being transported to the warming center.”

According to the county executive’s office, local law enforcement agencies have been advised “to provide transport to individuals to the warming center in Kearny and local shelters as needed.”

Anyone encountering a homeless person at night is asked to consult first with local shelters to see if space is available. Otherwise, people can reach out to the warming center by calling 973-3446852.

Another alternative is the Hudson County Homeless Hotline, which is able to facilitate calls for appropriate shelter placement. That number is 1-800-624-0287. Homeless families are directed to call there as well.

“I urge all in need of shelter and anyone concerned about their welfare to please use the available warming center service or call the homeless hotline to assist with shelter placement,” Hudson County Executive Tom DeGise said.

“We greatly appreciate the cooperation of all our coalition partners in this effort,” he added.

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Last week, the Salvation Army kicked off its annual Christmas Kettle campaign at Kearny’s Town Hall. Several band members played Christmas songs before and during the ceremony.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

05

For Frank West, it’s all J-E-T-S Kearny detective looks to enter team’s Fan Hall of Fame

By Ron Leir rleir@theobserver.com KEARNY — He may know more about the New York Jets than Woody Johnson, the team’s owner.

But Frank West has no proprietary interest in the club — at least none he’s shared with us. He’s just happy to be around Gang Green as one of their staunchest fans.

And if you want to make this particularly crazed Kearny cop even more ecstatic, you can huddle up to your computer and vote online to put West in the first-ever Jets Fan Hall of Fame.

West, 44, a 15-year law enforcement officer with the Kearny Police Department (the last three as detective) who grew up in Bayonne, was selected from among thousands of entries as one of 10 nominees vying for three spots in the Hall’s inaugural class.

The lucky trio who get the most votes will be inducted into the Hall Christmas Eve at MetLife Stadium at halftime ceremonies when the Jets host the Los Angeles Chargers.

On the Jets’ Fan Hall of Fame website, there are posted photos of the 10 nominees and West’s picture shows him wearing a Jets green-and-white jersey with the number 85.

That’s not just a random choice by West. It always brings back memories of attending his first Jets game at the old Photo courtesy of Frank West Giants Stadium in 1986.

He recounted that experience to Jets publicist Randy Lange Super Jets fan Frank West, (c.), as a green-clad Santa at a Jets game last season. Each year he comes to a game as Santa and takes thousands of photos with fans. West is looking to enter the Jets’ Fan as follows: “When I was 12 years old, my stepdad bought me Hall of Fame and needs your help and your votes to get there. a Wesley Walker jersey. The first game I ever saw, Wesley See WEST, Page 26

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

KPD: You’re heading the wrong way, sir

By Karen Zautyk kzautyk@theobserver.com KEARNY — Actually, the word heading in this headline is inaccurate. But “backing up” takes up more space. We shall clarify: At 10 p.m. on Nov. 2, police said, Officer David Bush was on patrol when he observed a 1998 Honda reversing against the flow of traffic at

Hoyt and Devon Sts. With Officers Jonathan Dowie and Jason Rodrigues as back-up, he stopped the car and -can you guess? -- reportedly detected a certain odor and recovered a vaporizer pen containing marijuana oil on the center console.

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possession of a CDS. *** Other recent reports from the Kearny police blotter included the following: Nov. 2 At 1:20 p.m., Officer Alan Stickno responded to the 500 block of Belgrove Drive on a report of a suspicious male inside a parked truck. There, police said, he found Keith Goresh, 41, of Kearny, sitting in a box truck -- facing north in the southbound lane -rapidly clapping his hands and apparently talking to himself.

Officer Ben Wuelfing, a certified drug recognition expert, was summoned to conduct field sobriety tests and Goresh was subsequently charged with DUI. Police said he admitted to having ingested Percocet and heroin. *** At 8:45 p.m., Officer Michael Gontarczuk observed Robert Matay, 45, of Newark, operating a 2005 Nissan at Bergen and Davis Aves. and confirmed that his driver’s license was suspended, police said. Headquarters also reported that Matay was wanted on five traffic warrants -- two from Newark and one each from Secaucus, East Orange and Elizabeth -- totaling $1,700. He was arrested on those and also charged with driving while suspended and ticketed for tinted windows and failure to have an insurance card.

Nov. 3 Officer Bush stopped a 2015 Honda at Highland and Woodland Aves. at 5 a.m. and took into custody driver Almalik Barnes, 38, of Orange (formerly of Kearny) for driving while suspended, police said. Barnes was additionally charged on two outstanding warrants: MV from Harrison, $500 (full), and criminal contempt of court, Clifton, $2,000 (full), and those jurisdictions were notified. *** At 11 p.m., at Kearny Ave. and Halstead St., Officer Mina Ekladious observed two 46-year-old Kearny men obviously violating local ordinances. Police said one was urinating in public

while his companion, Raul Pena, was guzzling beer from a 24-oz. can of Coors Light. The “whiz kid” was sent on his way with a summons, but Pena ended up in cuffs.

Police said a warrant check showed he had three, all from Kearny and all for ordinance offenses. Informed he was under arrest, Pena allegedly pulled away and had to be subdued by Ekladious and Officer Esteban Gonzalez.

Another ordinance-violation was added to his resume, along with a charge of resisting arrest.

Nov. 6 At 11 p.m., Officers Bush and Dowie spotted an occupied 2005 Honda parked in a secluded area at Clark St. and Belgrove Drive and found the occupant to be Joel Reyes-Sanchez, 20, of Kearny, around whom allegedly wafted the odor of weed, a large plastic bag of which reportedly was on the back seat. He was charged with possession of pot/ paraphernalia and possession of a CDS in a MV. Nov. 7 Police reported that Officer Jordenson Jean, at Bergen Ave. and Elm St. at 10:45 a.m., observed and arrested Brendan McCall, 26, of North Arlington, after confirming he had two drug-related warrants: Newark, $250 (full) and Lyndhurst, $624 (full). He was brought to HQ , and the respective jurisdictions were notified. *** Det. Sgt. Michael Gonzalez and Dets. Daniel Esteves and Michael Andrews, in the area of N. Midland and Passaic Aves. at 3 p.m., observed Axel Rodriguez, 44, of Kearny, on the off-limits railroad bridge See KPD, Page 12

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

07

Brother’s reopens under new management

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com KEARNY — Let’s face it — we’re spoiled.

We’re spoiled around here because whenever we want a sandwich, a buttered roll, a burger or any kind of food that involves a hard round roll, we’ve always had the best. And the best rolls have, traditionally, come from Brother’s Bakery on Kearny Ave. For more than 40 years, people have come to Brother’s from all over the state — and beyond New Jersey’s borders — just to get the rolls. This writer recalls living for four years in Florida and not once finding anything close to Brother’s rolls.

All these years later, it’s still true that Brother’s makes the finest bread around. But the place is under new ownership now — and for sole proprietor Mike Gencarelli, as he eases into his new role, he’s hoping to make Brother’s stronger and better than it’s ever been — including going back to the day

where his dad, Frank, ran the place.

“We continue to be the go-to place for baked goods,” Gencarelli, who also owns another bakery in Clifton, told The Observer. “But we’re so much more than just baked goods.”

Gencarelli says he wants patrons to know Brother’s also offers a full-service deli.

Whether it’s a sub, a salad, or even prepared foods, you’ll likely find it at Brother’s.

“We have the finest selection of cold-cuts,” Gencarelli said.

“But what sets us apart from other delis is that when you come here, you can stay and eat here. There’s no need to rush.”

Indeed. There are several tables set up on the floor of the bakery. So there’s plenty of room to order, relax, eat, enjoy a dessert and coffee afterward — and it doesn’t matter the time of day.

“People can come here for great breakfast sandwiches, have lunch — or even dinner

Photo courtesy of Brother’s

Three generations of Gencarellis outside Brother’s — standing from l., are Frank and Michael and in the middle is Luciano, 5.

here,” Gencarelli said.

Of course, Brother’s does offer the traditional items one would expect from a bakery, including all kinds of pastries, pies and cakes. And with the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons upcoming, that’s a winning combination for folks who don’t want to do their own baking.

“Our pies are top-notch,” Gencarelli said. “As we get

closer to Thanksgiving and Christmas, we hope people know they can come to expect the finest pies and baked items anywhere in the area.”

And, whether it’s for a small occasion — or a big occasion like a wedding, a birthday party, a first Communion, etc., one can find just about any cake available at Brother’s. And if it’s not on display, chances are they can still make it for

you.

“We even do the cakes that have portraits on them,” Gencarelli said. “Doesn’t matter what the customer is looking for, really. If they want it, we can do it for them. All they have to do is ask us.”

And while a lot of other businesses claim parking as an issue, not so for Brother’s.

There’s a full parking lot just to the north of the building — so there’s no driving around the block and there’s no chance you’ll come out to find a ticket on your windshield after shopping.

Meanwhile, Gencarelli says he hopes the business remains in his family for many more decades to come. His hope is that one day, his son, Luciano, takes over when it’s his turn to retire. Of course, that may be a long way off.

“Luciano is 5, and Sophia is 3,” Gencarelli said. “Just hope that as they get older, they’ll want to carry on the tradition as it was when my father handed off the business to me.”

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365 Kearny Ave., Kearny 201-991-4364

08

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

thoughts&views The contents of letters do not reflect the opinion of The Observer staff. Letters must be kept to a maximum of 250 words. Any letters that exceed the maximum will be edited, at the discretion of the publisher, who reserves the right at any time to reject or edit the letters for space. Letters must include the writer’s name, address, and telephone number for verification purposes. The deadline for letters is Thursday at 5 p.m. Any letters that arrive after deadline will not be considered for the upcoming publication. Letters can be sent by e-mail to editorial@theobserver.com or mailed to 39 Seeley Ave., Kearny, N.J. 07032. Anonymous letters will not be published under any circumstances.

Thankful this Thanksgiving

In Memoriam Mary Tortoreti 1942-2016 Lisa Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising Director Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising Robert Pezzolla General Manager Kevin Canessa Editorial, Web, Social Media Ron Leir Karen Zautyk Journalists Jim Hague Sportswriter Michelle Rybeck Graphic Designer Diana Crespo Assistant to the General Manager & Classifieds Kim Pezzolla Sales

Display & Real Estate Ad Deadlines Thursday by noon advertising@theobserver.com Obituaries Deadline Monday by 10 a.m. obituaries@theobserver.com Classifieds Deadline Monday by 3 p.m. classified@theobserver.com Help Wanted Ads Monday by 3 p.m.; must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com.

The Observer 39 Seeley Ave. | Kearny, N.J. 07032 www.theobserver.com

By Kevin Canessa It’s hard to believe Thanksgiving is already here. Maybe it’s because of the unusually warm autumn. Still, in a day or two or (depending on when you read this), we’ll be gathering with families to celebrate all that for which we are grateful and thankful.

With that in mind, I’ll use this week’s column to write about much that I am thankful for this year.

• To my mother and Mike — I am so thankful to have such a wonderful mum and step-dad in the two of you.

I don’t deserve the love and kindness you show me on a daily basis.

But please know — even though I don’t get to see you as much as I’d like to … I think of you both every day and give thanks.

• To my step-brother Matt — you may be in Florida — but I am so grateful that I have you to call my brother. Never had that when I was younger, but it’s better late than never.

• To Bob Pezzolla — nearly two years later, I am still most grateful that you brought me back from Florida to New Jersey. It was a life-changer, one that still affects me every single day. I couldn’t have asked for more.

• To Lisa Feorenzo — I am beyond grateful for the opportunities and challenges you give me each day — and for teaching me to be “fearless.”

It’s been a game changer, one that causes me to look forward to each new day and each new challenge.

I am a stronger person because of you.

• To Ron Leir — I couldn’t be more grateful to have such an incredible mentor and friend. When I think back to 1994, when I first met you in the newsroom of that other newspaper, I never could have imagined I’d one day be able to call you my friend, let alone my dear friend.

Not much else could be more important to me.

• To Karen Zautyk — we’ve come a long way, haven’t we? Thank you for all you do in keeping me on my toes, well, every single moment of the day. And thank you for being a great friend.

• To Michelle Rybeck — I don’t know what I’d do without you on a daily basis. Thank you for always being there to lift me up (thank goodness not literally) when things go south. I truly value our friendship — and hope for better days ahead.

You deserve only the best.

• To Diana Crespo — like with Michelle, when I need an ear, you’re always there to offer one. I can’t thank you for always being uplifting and positive. It’s a “beautiful” trait, one I am very grateful to experience.

• To Jim Hague — thank you for all your sports coverage, coverage that is matched today, yesterday and tomorrow by definitely no one in this industry.

• To Kim Luciano — thank you for what you are doing in town to make life better for those whose lives have gone in the wrong direction. Our town is made better because of your unending, relentless work.

• To Dom — though I am often scarce, I am so grateful to have such a wonderful friend in you and a friendship that has lasted through the test of time since September 1986.

• To Nicole and Jim Neubig — I know this not the best of times following the loss of your beloved Luca, but no matter what happens, I am so fortunate to have two amazing friends in the both of you. Your love for your dogs — and for animals in general — is inspiring. Humans could really learn from the love you give to canines. And the world would be a better place for it if more

would just listen.

• To Carm and Mookie — the place is not the same anymore without you here. Not a day passes that I don’t think of both of you. Thank you for making my early days back in New Jersey some of the best days of my life.

• To Stevie and Christine Nash — may the beginning of your new life together bring you all the joy you both so deserve. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your lives.

• To friends John and Heather, thank you for always making me laugh and thank you for all you both do for me. I could go on here forever, but I will just say thank you.

• To Fred Gillespie, since you often joke when you pick up each week’s edition, I wanted to be sure you know that despite that (I’m kidding, really), I have nothing but the utmost respect and admiration for you and the work you do professionally and for the betterment of Kearny. The same goes for your group of friends, too … Kenny, Lenny, Jody and even Tom McKeon.

• To Manny and Kim Ventoso, thank you for being my friend, in the best of times and the worst of times.

Though I don’t see you all that much, whenever I do, it is, without question, the best part of that day.

• To Melanie Ryan, thank you for being the pulse of this town — and for always letting me know about the things I fail to remember. When I write a story in this newspaper, chances are it’s because Melanie reminded me to do so.

There are so many others I wish I could list here, but space allows me to write only so much. Still, even if I haven’t named you, please know if you’re a part of my life, I am grateful to you. And to each and every one of you — Happy Thanksgiving. See you back here in three weeks!

Clarification A column on a recent Opinion Page incorrectly stated U.S. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke has explored the possibility of drilling and/or mining in national parks. “At no point in history has Zinke ever proposed or supported the idea of drilling or mining in national parks,” wrote Heather Swift, press secretary for the Interior Department.

At the same time, however, we note that Zinke has, in fact, talked about reducing the scope of national monuments — some examples are Muir Woods or Mount Rushmore — designated by presidential proclamations, with an eye to the possibility of opening those lands to exploration for coal, oil and gas.

Specifically, as reported by Reuters, Zinke recommended to President Trump to consider reducing the size of the 1.3 million-acre Bears Ears National Monument in Utah.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

09

19 years later, Centanni continues to sizzle

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com For a few years, it had a different name, but for most of the last 19 years, Centanni Ristorante has been synonymous with consistency, excellence and the finest fresh foods in the area. And perhaps the greatest consistency over the last 19 years is the restaurant’s owner, Robert DaSilva.

It’s DaSilva’s dedication to his restaurant that have kept Centanni one of the most popular Italian eateries in the area — what you tasted in 1998 is pretty much what you’ll taste today.

“When you come here, everything is homemade,” DaSilva said. “The chicken is 5% water based and has no fat. The sauces are all made here — including the marsala, francese and marinara. We don’t use anything frozen.”

DaSilva says his cooking staff arrives at around 10 a.m. each morning to begin preparations for the lunch and dinner crowds.

And, unlike at most other restaurants, the moment you walk in the door, you can see the cooking staff — the kitchen is open and can be viewed plainly.

“When you can see them, it keeps them motivated to do well,” DaSilva said.

While Centanni is open seven days a week — it’s also available for private affairs and special days. For example, it will be open Thursday, Nov. 23, for Thanksgiving, from 1 to 6 p.m. (If you’re interested in not having to cook and want to dine in, call 201-2460100 right away to make

reservations. You can also get a fully-prepared Thanksgiving feast to take away, too.)

“We’ve been doing this for five years now,” DaSilva said. (It’s been five years since DaSilva became the sole owner of the restaurant.)

“We’ll prepare a turkey and five sides whether it’s for dine-in or takeout.”

If you’re dining in, you don’t have to just have the special Thanksgiving meal. If you want it, the entire regular menu will be available.

Meanwhile, as the Holiday Season approaches, DaSilva says it becomes a real busy time for him and his staff. The restaurant offers to-go trays of food, including baked ziti, all sorts of chicken dishes and more.

“We’ll do about 2,000 trays,” DaSilva said.

So if you’re interested, get your orders in soon.

Now, in addition to its regular lunch and dinner service, Centanni is also a great place private parties, including those for First Holy Communion, Confirmations, Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, baptisms, graduations and more. It’s also a go-to spot for funeral repasts.

Special menus are available for the parties. And, the restaurant’s back room is available for privacy.

“Sometimes, people will also ask for the front room,” DaSilva said. “So it all depends on what the customer wants. If they ask for the front, they’ll be in the front. If they ask for the back room, they’ll be in the back room.”

Centanni also has a fullservice bar with many top-

shelf liquors. So there’s no need to BYOB. Centanni is also known for giving back to the community.

DaSilva says he gives back to several organizations in Kearny and North Arlington.

Of late, the greatest beneficiary is the boys’ crew team at Kearny High School.

“My son, Cristian, who is 17, is one of the captains of the team,” DaSilva said.

Lastly, if you’re looking for

entertainment while dining, you’ll often find it at Centanni on Friday or Saturday nights — including local act Anthony Tabish, the director See CENTANNI, Page 12

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

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aroundtown

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

Belleville

Flu shots Free flu vaccine is available for Belleville residents. To make an appointment, call the Health Department at 973-4503390 or 973-450-3389. Nonperishable food donations for the local food pantry would be appreciated.

At the library Here’s what’s on tap at the Belleville Public Library & Information Center, 221 Washington Ave., for the coming week: For adults & young adults: Movie Mondays, Nov. 27, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Board Games Tuesday, Nov. 28, 3-5 p.m. Grades 7 & up play Jenga, Monopoly, Chinese checkers, chess, Scrabble & card games.

Make Your Own Silicone Mold Wednesday, Nov. 22, at 1 p.m. Make casts of trinkets and toys.

Teen Advisory Board Meeting, Tuesday, Nov. 28, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

For children: Storybook Friends Wednesday, Nov. 22 & 29, at 10 a.m.

Kids ages 3-6 share stories, sing songs and create crafts.

Drop-In Homework Help, Thursday, Nov. 30, 6-7:30 p.m.

Homework help for grades K-5 from volunteer tutors in grades 6-12.

Bookworm Bingo Monday,

Nov. 27, 5-6 p.m. Kids ages 5-11 play bingo for prizes.

Roblox Free Play, Tuesday, Nov. 28, 3-6 p.m. Kids come to Roblox on the children’s room computers to create adventures, play games, roleplay and learn with friends.

Harrison Cancer League collecting toys for Valerie Fund The Harrison Cancer League is collecting new and unwrapped toys for ages 1 to 21 for the Valerie Fund (children with cancer). Anyone wishing to donate may drop off donations at the Harrison Town Hall or the Harrison Community Center. Call Maria at 862-763-0047 for more information. All donations must be received by Dec. 2.

Kearny PBGC Carnival upcoming The PBGC, 663 Kearny Ave., hosts its annual carnival on Friday, Dec. 1, and Saturday, Dec. 2, from 7 to 9 p.m. The club encourages the entire community to attend. PBGC executive director Tom Fraser will run the carnival, with help from PBGC board chairman Paul Vieira and other board members. More than 75 kids will participate in operating 30+ games of skill including go fish, spin the wheel and

many more. There will also be a giant table of arts & crafts, stuffed animals and baked goods.

A.C. trip is Nov. 29 Take a trip to AC on a bus leaving the Senior Center, 60 Columbia Ave., on Wednesday, Nov. 29 at 9:30 a.m. The cost is $30. Play bingo on the bus. Call Kay at 201-991-4549 for more information or to register.

Helping families win Liberty Family Success Center, 341 Kearny Ave., offers these activities this coming week: Time for Tots Play Group, Wednesday, Nov. 29, 11 a.m.noon. Parents are asked to stay with their children as they learn to socialize in the play space.

Let’s Zumba, Monday, Nov. 27, 11 a.m.-noon. Ladies invited to join for free class but space is limited. Call the center at 201-622-2210 to RSVP. P.A.C.O. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) enrollment session, Monday, Nov. 27, 2-5 p.m.

Post 139 conducts games of chance to help residents make additional cash. The party is sponsored by Lopinto’s sister, Marilyn Faziola and her husband John.

Pantry seeks donations The Lyndhurst Food Pantry is accepting donations for the upcoming holiday season and needs cranberry sauce, stuffing mix, canned gravy, vegetables, rice, beans, pasta, pasta sauce, tuna, peanut butter, applesauce and apple juice. Gift cards, turkeys and hams are also welcome. Please check items for expiration dates. Donations can be made Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The pantry’s regular business hours are Monday through Thursday from 1 to 3:30 p.m. To be a member of the food pantry, one must provide proof of Lyndhurst residency and proof of hardship.

Send letter to Santa in special mailbox The Department of Parks & Recreation debuts Santa’s mailbox on the Lyndhurst Lyndhurst Town Hall lawn on Monday, Nov 27.

Ward party upcoming It is a special mailbox that The veterans ward party goes directly to Santa’s Workin memory of Frank Lopinto shop in the North Pole. Please takes place Tuesday, Nov. 28, at do remember that Santa needs Chestnut Hill Nursing Home, each child’s last name and adPassaic. American Legion dress to answer all the letters,

11

so make sure it is included before putting it in the mailbox. He was very sad that he couldn’t answer some letters last year.

Also note that since Santa will be getting much busier closer to Christmas, so he cannot take any mail after Sunday, Dec. 17.

North Arlington Learn to keep good balance The North Arlington Health Department, in conjunction with Clara Maass Medical Center, hosts a free Lunch & Learn program, “Stay Firm on Your Feet,” on Monday, Dec. 4, at noon at the Senior Center, behind the Health Department building, at 10 Beaver Ave. An unexpected fall can be the result of dizziness or a consequence of a general balance problem. Find out more about common causes of falls to improve balance and strength and reduce chances of injury.

Join physical therapists Carl Gargiulo and Michael Yasso for tips on how to keep your home safe.

Learn how to perform exercises at home to prevent a fall. The event is open to surrounding communities. A light lunch will be served.

Registration is required; call the North Arlington Health Department at 201-9555695.

WCA, Kearny Bank bring holiday to troops The Woman’s Club of Arlington (WCA) has a long history of sponsoring charitable events. This year, the club collaborated with Kearny Bank to provide 22 filled Christmas stockings to members of the armed forces serving overseas through an organization called Boatsie’s Boxes.

Boatsie’s Boxes, Inc., began in May 2004, when a sergeant in the United States Air Force forwarded a personal request from the Deputy Director of programs in Baghdad for personal

items needed for the troops in hospitals. The airman’s mother, Gail Van Vranken, aka Boatsie, learned of this need and worked toward a solution.

Initially, boxes were sent to the wounded troops. Later, the mission was extended to include any deployed troop in need of support.

Today, boxes are reaching over 20,000 troops in every branch of military service, including Marines, soldiers, sailors and airmen, many on the front lines of operation in Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan,

Carol Puchyr (l.), project coordinator for the WCA, and Pat Sherwen, co-president of the WCA.

Kuwait and Korea.

The WCA donates filled Christmas stockings, as do many other clubs within the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC).

Clubwomen have supported Boatsie’s Boxes for 14 years and counting. Representatives from NJSFWC in New Brunswick volunteer to drive a truck filled with 1,637 Christmas stockings to the headquarters of Boatsie’s Boxes in West Virginia.

Donations are then boxed and shipped overseas to U.S.

troops.

Donated items included: Christmas candy (individually wrapped), Slim Jims, beef jerky, microwave soups, trail mix, nuts, chewing gum, Life Savers, DVDs , playing cards, puzzle books, razors, lip balm, travel-sized toiletry items, phone cards, batteries, crew socks, stationery, pens, body wash and wipes.

Members also wrote personal notes that were included with the stockings.

WCA also contributed to defray the cost of sending the stockings.

12

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

44 arrests since 1997?

This CHRISTMAS, fill someone’s stocking with a subscription to T HE O BSERVER ...

By Karen Zautyk kzautyk@theobserver.com

It’s the perfect gift to give to someone who moved away & loves keeping up with their old hometown news. And best of all? You can do it all right from home!

Call 201-991-1600 or mail this form with payment to 39 Seeley Ave., Kearny, N.J. 07032. Please make checks payable to The Observer. Please note: we can only take credit card payments with phone orders.

Who is subscription for? _________________________________________ Person’s mailing address: ________________________________________ Town______________________ State ________ Zip __________________ Who should we say bought the subscription__________________________ How can we reach you?__________________________________________ Length of subscription: __________ 6 months __________ One Year

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Food&Dining directory

La Fiamma Bar & Grill Italian Cuisine

Earlier this month, the KPD took into custody a 39-yearold Newark man, Danny Morales, on a charge of criminal attempted burglary. According to police, it was his 44th arrest since 1997. Welcome to the World of Criminal Justice.

The latest chapter in Morales’ saga began at 1:40 a.m, Nov. 7, when Officer Jonathan Dowie reported seeing an individual apparently trying to enter a 1995 Ford wagon parked on Highland Ave. near Woodland Ave. When the suspect spotted the police car, he reportedly tried to hide behind another vehicle, but Dowie found him.

Asked if he knew the owner of the wagon, police said Morales answered, “no.”

Headquarters then notified Dowie that Morales was wanted on a $300 burglary warrant from Newark -- as well as a no-bail NCIC warrant from the Essex County Sheriff’s Office.

While he was being booked at KPD HQ on the Kearny charge, a criminal-history request was filed, and the results were, in our opinion, astounding.

Authorities report that Morales’ inaugural arrest occurred in January

440 Harrison Ave., Harrison 973-483-5455 • Call for Reservations!

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CENTANNI

Continued from Page 9

Centanni Ristorante Italian Cuisine & Bar 11-35 River Rd., North Arlington 201-246-0100

TR

ero’s estaurant

Tero’s Restaurant Portuguese Cuisine 222-224 Ridge Rd., Lyndhurst 201-935-8818

of music at Queen of Peace Church.

Don’t believe what we’re telling you? Check out Centanni’s Facebook page. Among 75 ratings, the average score is 4.7 out of 5 stars. Here’s one

of them.

“Service is great and food is delicious. Me and my family go at least once a week to eat at this place. Garlic knots are addictive,” the reviewer wrote. “Centanni chicken salad is delicious along with many of their main entrees. I recommend!”

Centanni is located

KPD

Continued from Page 6

Nino’s Ristorante & Pizzeria Pizza & Italian Cuisine • Wine & Beer

442 Bergen St., Harrison 973-484-5770 • originalninospizza.com

El Cubanito’s Cafe Cuban Cuisine 866 Kearny Ave., Kearny • 515-580-7414 751 Kearny Ave., Kearny • 201-904-5586

To adver tise, call 201-991-1600

1997 on a drug-possession charge from the Essex County Sheriff.

His first arrest in Kearny came seven months later, in August ‘97, when he was accused of theft, receiving stolen property and obstructing the administration of law. He reportedly was fined (amount unknown) and spent eight days in jail.

In September ‘97, authorities said, he was arrested in Harrison for criminal trespass, was fined (amount unknown) and sentenced to 30 days behind bars.

Skipping ahead to 2017: According to police, including the Nov. 7 bust, Morales has racked up six arrests this year -- June 17, in Kearny, possession of burglar tools; June 22, Newark, criminal trespass; July 8, Newark, criminal trespass; Aug. 20, Harrison, criminal trespass and theft (for which he reportedly was fined); Aug 24, Kearny, burglary and theft (no disposition).

Authorities said Morales’ lengthy criminal history includes nine felony convictions, one escape, two parole violations and three probation violations.

Apparently, he also has “many aliases.”

And if the past is prologue, an interesting future?

and confronted him, whereupon, police said, he “freely admitted” he was returning from Newark, where he had ingested heroin. He was charged with defiant trespass and being under the influence of a CDS. Nov. 8 Officer Ekladious, with Officer Gonzalez as back-up, arrested Pancho Montes, 46, of Kearny, and Giovanny Gonzalez, 44, of Newark, at 10:20 p.m. at Kearny and Woodland Aves. after confirming both had warrants, police said. Montes, who had two from East Newark-- both for contempt: $500 (full) and $1,500 (10%) -- was booked at KPD HQ and taken to the

at 11-35 River Road, North Arlington. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday to Thursday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday & Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sunday. Find the full menu, photos and more online at www.centanninj. com. Call 201-246-0100 for more information.

neighboring borough.

Gonzalez had a $50 Newark contempt warrant and, after he was booked, Newark advised the KPD that he could be released on his own recognizance.

Nov. 9 Vice detectives, at Passaic Ave. and Belgrove Drive at 1 p.m., reportedly observed Nicholas McBride, 23, of Blairstown, staggering in the roadway. When they approached to see if he needed medical aid, police said he admitted having taken heroin and was found to be in possession of a hypodermic needle and six Tramadol tablets.

He was charged with possession of a CDS, the needle and drug paraphernalia, and also on two contempt warrants: Totowa, $500, and Blairstown, $250.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

13

sports&recreation

Kearny wins NJSIAA Group IV soccer title; 10th overall; first since 2004

SPORTS VIEW

CONTACT JIM HAGUE AT OGSMAR@AOL.COM

Kearny girls’ tennis team captures Hudson County crown When Rob Kelly became the girls’ tennis coach at Kearny High School earlier this year, he knew he was inheriting a solid squad.

“I walked into a good situation,” said Kelly, who also coaches hockey and boys’ tennis at the school.

“Alex Zalewski built the program and we had a good relationship. When Alex left, the girls were familiar with me. I think I was more excited than apprehensive. I guess there was a little hesitation in how I would act around them.”

Kelly was the assistant to Zalewski last year.

When Zalewski left for another teaching and coaching position near his home down the Jersey Shore, it left Kelly to take over and hit the ground running.

“I just needed everyone to loosen up and everything would be smooth sailing,” Kelly said. “A lot of the girls were on the team last season.”

The Kardinals lost in the Hudson County Tournament semifinals to Bayonne and the girls felt that they shouldn’t have lost to the Bees.

“It left a bad taste in their mouths,” Kelly said. “It left a sour taste.

I think they figured that this was their opportunity

this year to get it done.

Coming in from Day One, you could see that the girls were ready. We had a lot of talent coming back from last year. We also had a good turnout from girls who were interested.”

With 30 interested players, Kelly had to split practices, having a session strictly for novice tennis players right after school and another for those with past tennis experience.

It also enabled some of Kelly’s top performers to get to Kearny from North Bergen, where they attend High Tech High School of the Hudson County Schools of Techology.

High Tech does not have any varsity sports of its own, so any aspiring student/athlete from that school must return to his/her home district to play sports.

Leading the list of returnees is senior Zuzanna Lisek, the Kardinals’ first singles performer who ended up winning the Hudson County Individual Tourney at first singles.

“She was undefeated for us,” Kelly said. “She was fantastic. I never had to worry about her. She made a commitment from See VIEW, Page 15

Photo by Jim Hague The Kearny High School boys soccer team celebrate with the state trophy after winning the NJSIAA Group IV championship Sunday evening at Kean University.

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com UNION – Midway through the first half of Sunday’s NJSIAA Group IV boys’ soccer championship against Princeton, Kearny’s brilliant junior midfielder Jose Escandon unfurled a wicked shot from about 30 yards out that appeared headed toward being the first goal of the match.

“I thought it was going in,” Kearny head coach Bill Galka said.

“It was a good shot,” Escandon said. “The keeper (Patrick Jacobs) was able to get it and made a great save.”

Undaunted, Escandon knew that he would get other chances.

“I think we just had to keep playing,” Escandon said. “We had to keep the ball. That’s how we play. That’s how we do well.”

Sure enough, the Kardinals

kept the ball in the second half — and Escandon kept supplying the pressure.

In the 50th minute (10 minutes into the second half), Escandon got the Kardinals on the board with a blast from 18 yards out that Jacobs had no chance of stopping. Escandon’s 21st goal of the season gave the Kards a 1-0 lead.

After scoring, Escandon ran to the sidelines holding four fingers aloft. He then went down to one knee, said a little prayer, then made like Robin Hood and pulled an imaginary arrow from his imaginary backpack and gestured to fire the pseudo-arrow into the darkening sky over Kean University.

For good measure, Escandon took a direct free kick from about 20 yards out with 10 minutes remaining and went to Jacobs’ left. The hard blast eluded Jacobs for Escandon’s second goal of the game and sent everyone into

a frenzy.

After Princeton scored a goal with a little over two minutes left, Ryan Valdez sealed the deal with just six seconds remaining on a breakaway, giving Kearny the 3-1 victory that enabled the Kardinals to clinch their first Group IV state title since 2004 and their first outright state title since 2002.

The championship in 2004 was shared with Rancocas Valley, when the two teams played to a draw in the state title match. The Kardinals last won the outright Group IV title in 2002 when the Kards defeated Shawnee in the championship game.

The win also enabled the Kardinals (19-0-5) to complete their first undefeated season since 1984.

“It’s a great feeling,” said Escandon, who cemented his chances to becoming the See CHAMPS, next page

14

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

engulfed Alumni Stadium at Kean. More than 2,000 fans packed the place, with many Continued from Page 13 of the followers in attendance from Kearny, including overall New Jersey Player of the cheerleaders and the the Year with his two-goal school’s marching band. performance in the state “I thought we had control title game. “We all work of the game,” Galka said. as a team and all work as a “We just needed that goal.” family. We’re a family. These Escandon finally provided are my brothers. We just it with a brilliant play. He worked harder to be able to circled past two defenders, take the title.” then let go of a fine shot in Galka finally had a state the second half that gave the championship as a head Kards the lead for good. coach.

“It was a great shot and “It is a relief to finally he certainly put it in,” Galka get one,” said Galka, who said. earned his first state secEscandon’s second goal tional title as a coach last with 10 minutes left gave the season, only to fall in the Kardinals a sense of comoverall Group IV semififort. nals. “We knew that we “I like taking free kicks,” didn’t want to share it like Escandon said. “When I saw the last one. Before the him (Princeton goalkeeper season started, we set goals Jacobs) move too much of winning the county, the to the right, that’s when I state sectional and the state decided to go left. I knew I championship. Usually, you had it.” don’t get all three.”

The score remained at 2-0 But this time, the Kardiuntil Princeton made a push nals did. to get a goal. It came off the The Kardinals were the alert foot of Andrew Beambetter team from the outer, whose late father, Todd, set despite the winter chill was a hero passenger aboard and wicked winds that

CHAMPS

Flight 93 that crashed into a field in Pennsylvania after it was hijacked by terrorists on Sept. 11, 2001. Todd Beamer was one of the passengers who overtook the hijackers and forced the plane to crash in the field instead of the destination in Washington, D.C. With the score, 2-1, in the closing seconds, Kearny senior forward Ryan Valdez saw his dream come true.

“I honestly knew I was going to score a goal today,” said Valdez, who scored only his second goal of the season. “I knew the ball was going to come to me. I saw that there were only 15 seconds left and then I saw the ball. My heart started beating so fast. I had been asking God for a goal and he blessed me with one. (Assistant) Coach (Jimmy) Hempel said he believed in me and said that I was going to score today. It’s incredible how everything happened. It came at the right time.”

Valdez ran down the ball on a breakaway, chipped it over Jacobs and it rolled into the net for the final

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score of the day, clinching the historic day.

“I never thought in my senior year that I would get a goal in the state championship,” Valdez said. “We started as family and ended up playing as family.”

Valdez’s best friend, goalkeeper Bryan Noritsz, made seven saves in preserving the championship. After the game, Noritsz hugged the state championship trophy for about a half-hour, caressing it like a father holds on to his newborn child.

Noritsz went from being a third string net minder last year to the backup to begin this season, then winning the job for good during preseason scrimmages.

“I honestly didn’t think I could take it this far,” Noritsz said. “But I kept doing what I had to do and we kept doing what we had to do. I noticed early on that we had a really good team and had a chance to win it all. When my brother Ryan Valdez scored the goal, I knew it that we were state champs. I believed he was going to score one. I really did.”

“This guy supported me

since Day One,” Valdez said of Noritsz. “It was almost meant to happen.”

Noritsz applauded Valdez’s friendship.

“He stayed by my side through it all,” Noritsz said.

“And now look. We’re state champs.”

The Kardinals secured wins in the state playoffs by penalty kicks to get to the state title match in Kean and a chance to write a page in history — which they most certainly did.

It was the first state title in 13 years and the first overall in 15 years and the first undefeated campaign in 33 years — all historic, every single page.

“You’re always a break away, here and there, in the state playoffs,” Galka said.

“We got the breaks this time.”

And the biggest break was having the smallest guy on the field put the No. 10 red jersey on Sunday. Just think, Escandon, already one of the greatest players in the rich history of Kearny High soccer, gets another year to play for the Kardinals.

That’s a scary thought for Kearny opposition in 2018.

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15

shared the second singles spot all season.

“We got a chance to play Continued from Page 13 with three different pairs there,” Kelly said.

Day One and I appreciate Others that got playthat.” ing time were junior Leyla Lisek was named the Vasquez and freshman Hudson County Player of the Sabena Raza, Sofia’s younger Year for her efforts. sister.

Kelly believes Lisek could “I gave them the opporplay college tennis. tunity to play and practice “She’s good enough to do every day with the varsity,” it, but I don’t know if she Kelly said. “They got some wants to,” Kelly said. good experience.”

The Kardinals’ No. 2 player The result was a 21-4 team is junior Jillian Boyle, who record and the Kardinals is one of those players who won the Hudson County attends High Tech. Boyle Tournament championship posted a 17-5 record this as a team. They crowned season. three individual champions “Regardless of what’s been Photo courtesy Doug Boyle at first singles, third singles going on, Jill always has a The Kearny High School girls’ tennis team captured the Hudson County Tournament team title and and first doubles and won the positive outlook,” Kelly said. crowned three individual county champions. From left are Mia Eid, head coach Rob Kelly, Jillian title as a team. That’s a pretty Boyle, Paulina Tyszka, Zuzanna Lisek, Emely Conza, Karen Uquillas and Sofia Raza.

“She’s never in a bad mood impressive campaign for the and makes everyone feel Kardinals. good. She also makes eveshe wanted to be the third doubles tennis and took to it sisted of three girls playing “We really did want to win ryone believe she’s going to singles player, so I gave her a quite well. the two spots. the county,” Kelly said. “That win the match.” shot. Everything she did was “They were undefeated,” Senior Emely Conza, junior was the goal. I couldn’t have The top two singles players flawless. She makes it look so Crudele said.

Paulina Tyszka and junasked for a better first seawere not surprises. The third easy.”

The second singles conior Claudia Sierzputowski son. I’m ecstatic.” singles player was.

Eid also won the county Freshman Mia Eid stepped tournament at third singles in to the No. 3 singles role. and posted an overall mark Another High Tech student, of 18-1.

Eid came on like gangbusters The first singles team of since the start of practice. sophomore Karen Uquillas “She’s a shy, quiet little and senior Sofia Raza learned girl,” Kelly said. “She told me the ins and outs of playing

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

Belleville resident, Lyndhurst native Skelly making mark at Rutgers-Newark Chris started the program, Nicole is now a major part.

“I’m trying to help my Dad,” Skelly said. “Or maybe it’s my Nicole Skelly may be majorDad trying to help me.” ing in psychology at RutgersThe North Jersey Celtics Newark, with a minor in have about 50 young ladies criminal justice, but there’s no playing for any of their four denying what Skelly wants to th teams — 5 and 6th grades, do when she graduates from th th 7 and 8 grades, and two R-N in May of 2018. different high school teams.

“I want to be a coach,” said Nicole is the head coach of the Skelly, a resident of Belleville 7th-8th grade team and one of and native of Lyndhurst who is the high school teams, while a senior on the Scarlet Raidassisting her father and Kim ers’ women’s basketball team.

Douglas with the others.

“The ultimate goal would “It can be very stressful,” be to be part of the FBI, but Skelly said about balanccoaching would be the overing college courses, college all goal. It’s probably a faster basketball and coaching. “I career.” just take everything day-bySkelly has also already had day.

It helps me a lot with time hands-on experience as a management.

Being able to coach. manage everything helps me a Her father, Chris, is the lot with schoolwork.” founder of the North Jersey Photo courtesy Rutgers-Newark athletic communications department The North Jersey Celtics Celtics AAU program for Belleville resident and Lyndhurst native Nicole Skelly is enare based out of Lyndhurst, young girls from fifth grade joying a solid start to her senior campaign with the women’s where Skelly grew up before on through high school. While basketball team at Rutgers-Newark. recently moving to Belleville.

Her father has also served as the assistant head coach and

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

Annual

Kearny Tree Lighting Festival

head junior varsity coach at Weehawken High School.

Skelly said that she learned a lot from playing for her father, then coaching with him.

“My dad always asks a lot of questions to me and that helps,” Skelly said. “Basketball has helped to keep us together.

When I was younger, he would take me to games with him and we really developed a strong bond. He coached me and now I coach with him. It’s funny how it all worked out.

We now go to clinics together.

He taught me a lot. I owe my knowledge of the game to him.

It comes from him.”

Rutgers-Newark head women’s basketball coach Ashley Cieplicki sees Skelly as being another member of her coaching staff.

“To me, as a player, she’s like another assistant coach on the court,” Cieplicki said. “She’s very smart and understands what’s going on. She’s another Continued on the next page

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reflection of me out there.

She always works hard.”

Cieplicki said that she knew of Skelly, but sort of inherited her at R-N, especially since Skelly attended Kean University as a freshman.

“She embraced our style of play when we came in,” Cieplicki said. “Without a doubt, she’s developed into a leader for us. I think that just comes natural to her.”

Her organizational skills with her AAU team have helped her with the Scarlet Raiders.

“She’s the one constantly on her phone, texting on her phone, organizing shootarounds and open gyms,” Cieplicki said. “She’s a behind-the-scenes leader on this team.”

Skelly spoke about her decision to attend RutgersNewark after a semester at Kean.

“I just think Kean wasn’t for me,” Skelly said. “I saw the family aspect at Rutgers and loved it.”

But in Skelly’s tenure, there have been three head women’s basketball coaches.

The latest, Cieplicki, did not recruit Skelly.

“I just knew there was a better opportunity to further my education at Rutgers,” Skelly said. “I look at things differently now. I appreciate everything that Coach Ashley says to me.

She wants me to mold the team to be a better representation of her. I understand that.”

Skelly has enjoyed a

great start to her senior year, scoring 16 points in a season-opening loss to FDU-Florham and 14 in a win over Cedar Crest. Both totals represent career highs for Skelly.

And for her efforts, Skelly has been selected as The Observer Athlete of the Week for the past week.

Skelly said that she embraces the idea that as a senior Skelly has to take the bull by the horns.

“I definitely don’t mind taking the leadership role,” Skelly said. “I think I just have natural born leadership talent. I like the idea of the family aspect and I try to relate that to the team. I bring that into play every day.”

Skelly said she’s comfortable playing with the Scarlet Raiders, especially since fellow senior Nikki Sammartino, a North Arlington native and graduate of the now-defunct Queen of Peace, as well as sisters

Faith and Hannah Ashby were all teammates with Skelly on the North Jersey Celtics a few years ago.

But Skelly’s future is without a doubt headed toward a life in coaching.

“I know she wants to be a coach,” Cieplicki said. “I can definitely see her becoming a coach. When I’m out recruiting at AAU tournaments, there’s Nicole out there doing all the coaching, Her team goes to so many tournaments and I just happen to run into her team and she’s coaching away.

She’s able to juggle so many things and makes it work.”

The other fascinating aspect to Skelly’s life is her appearance. She has several tattoos on her arms and legs and is one to wear very flamboyant colored hair, although her hair color has been more subdued as the season tipped off last weekend.

“My Mom is a barber,” Skelly said. “She shows me

different colors and says she’d like to try them out, so I say, ‘OK, I’ll try that one on now.’ It makes going out there to play a lot of fun.

My teammates are always asking me about what color my hair will be for the next game.”

Last season, Skelly had her hair blonde, dark and multi-colored like green and blue.

“It’s all fun,” Skelly said.

And as for the tattoos?

“Well, my Dad and Mom both have them,” Skelly said.

“If it works for them, then it would work for me.”

It works well now for Cieplicki and the Scarlet Raiders, who won twice over the weekend in the

John K. Adams Tip-Off Classic at the Golden Dome. The Scarlet Raiders defeated Cedar Crest and St. Joseph’s of Long Island at the classic to improve to 2-1 on the young season.

Skelly is averaging 12 points and 6.3 rebounds per game in the early going, much improved over her 3.6 points and 4.6 rebounds per game averages of a year ago.

“A lot of her improvement goes back to the spring and summer,” Cieplicki said.

“She really worked hard to get ready for this season.

She’s a real credit to the program.”

And Skelly is a player with an already bright future as a coach down the road.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

From cat-astrophe to purr-fect ending

By Karen Zautyk kzautyk@theobserver.com

Thanksgiving blessings from the entire staff!

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KEARNY – “Knock, knock.”

“Who’s there?”

“Me.” “Me, who?”

“MEOW! I’m hungry!”

Okay, that’s probably the worst knock-knock joke ever, but I based it on truth.

In this town, there is a young feral feline, named Petunia, that actually taps on her human friends’ windows when she wants to be fed. She appears to have learned this skill from her mother, who does the same thing.

This is the story of that 1-year-old cat. It is heart-rending, starting out with a terrible situation; but it is also heartwarming, speaking as it does to the kindness, generosity and, yes, love of people who truly care for all creatures.

Petunia -- like her mother Gracie and her brother Henry -- makes her home in the great outdoors. She is an independent spirit who would not become a housecat for all the kibble and kitty treats in the world. More than one would-be caregiver would like to adopt her, but she wants none of it. In the words of Len Twist of Kearny’s highly successful TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) program, “She’s a stonecold feral.”

She is also a cat with only three legs.

Petunia’s prowling grounds center around a dead-end street, and it was there, in the summer, where she could have lost her life. In one of the backyards, there was a soccer net, in which she became entangled. No one knows how long she was there but it could have been up to three weeks, for the homeowners were out of the coun-

Photo by Len Twist

Petunia tangled in soccer net.

try that long and there was no one to witness her struggles or hear her cries. The more she struggled, the tighter became the cords around her.

When the residents finally returned and saw the shocking sight, they contacted K-9 Corner in Kearny, which in turn contacted Twist, who rushed to the rescue.

He managed to cut Petunia free, but the tightened net had been slicing into her left hind leg, which “was already dangling,” Twist said. Still, when he got her free, she managed to bolt, like a cat out of hell.

Twist and the cat-loving neighbors in the area spent weeks trying to locate her. Especially helpful were the kids, who hunted high and low and sent regular reports on possible sightings.

“They were my eyes and ears in the neighborhood,” Twist said.

“They were looking down driveways, under bushes, under cars.”

Finally, last month, Petunia was found in one of the TNR’s humane traps. Her left hind leg was completely gone, apparently having dried up and fallen off.

Twist took the cat to Twin Oaks Veterinary Hospital in Teaneck, where she was treated with antibiotics and

where surgery was performed by Dr. Paul Schubert.

The human residents in Petunia’s Kearny “hood” raised money for the vet care.

“They all chipped in,” Twist noted.

All healed up and ready for freedom again, Petunia has now been formally released in a little ceremony attended by her human fans, including all those dedicated kids.

There were thankyous and applause and then the carrier was opened — and Petunia bolted, like a cat out of hell. Remember: Stonecold feral.

She could not be fitted with a prosthetic, but that apparently doesn’t matter. She is said to be doing just fine — walking, running, climbing — on just three legs.

She’s part of the neighborhood again. A place where she and Gracie and Henry are loved.

And where she can just tap on a window when she wants to be fed.

And if you are concerned about Petunia and the approaching winter, fear not. She will be warm. One of her humans has built her a sort of igloo, complete with feline-safe heater.

“Next week,” Twist joked, “I’m installing running water and cable TV.”

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

A really nasty phone scam NUTLEY – You have heard about telephone scammers trying to get money from unsuspecting potential victims by threatening to cut off utilities, or by claiming to represent a relative in trouble, or by offering to share an “inheritance.”

The list of tricks is endless.

But now comes news of yet another, one that is particularly disturbing.

On Nov. 15, Nutley police dispatched officers take a report of suspicious phone calls made to a local resident who stated they had been using a dating/social website and had had some communications with a 26-year-old female through text messages.

That day, police said, the resident received a phone call from an unknown party stating that the female was only 16 -- not 26 -- and had tried to commit suicide the previous

night.

The caller requested $6,000 needed for the girl’s medical care, but would accept $3,000.

Additionally, another call came from an individual claiming to be a lieutenant with a police department in South Carolina. When the victim asked specific questions regarding proof of identity -- including the “officer’s” name and badge number -the caller hung up.

Wisely, the scam target notified the Nutley police.

The whole thing is believed to be a scam, and the victim was advised of how to obtain a copy of the report for their records.

This the first time The Observer has heard of this particular swindle, but we doubt it will be the last. Likewise, we doubt it is limited to Nutley.

– Karen Zautyk

19

Prep locals ace AP exams St. Peter’s Prep, Jersey City, announces that 54 students were named AP (Advanced Placement) Scholars, including several from The Observer’s readership area.

The AP Scholars awards recognize high school students who have demonstrated college-level achieve-

ment through their work in AP classes and exams.

AP Scholars scored 3 or higher on three or more AP exams. AP Scholars with Honor received an average score of 3.25 on four or more exams. AP Scholars with Distinction received an average score of 3.5 or greater on on all exams

taken and 3 or more on at least five exams.

Bloomfield resident Ian Harnett, ‘17 was named an AP Scholar with Distinction. Nutley residents Alexander De Martino, ‘17 earned AP Scholar with Distinction and Brian Savage, ‘18 was named an AP Scholar with Honors.

Rising to the challenge North Arlington’s Jonathan Miranda and Amanda Guanci were recently honored by the Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus Council 3428 for winning the New Jersey State Knights of Columbus Soccer Challenge, an annual skills contest. The youths first won the local competition, next earned District 10 honors and then bested Council champs from Bergen, Hudson, Essex and Union counties to earn the Archdiocese of Newark/K of C Regionals before vying for the State K of C titles against other councils’ winners from across the state and won their respective divisions: Jonathan is the 9-year-old boys champ and Amanda is the 11-yearold girls victor.

VISIT & PHOTO WITH SANTA

Come join us at Mid-Realty, Inc. for a visit and complimentary photo with Santa!

Saturday

December 9th, 2017 12:00 - 4:00 PM

Mid-Realty,Inc. 572 Kearny Avenue Kearny, NJ 07032

(201)991-5719

20

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

Think you can’t refinance because values are down?

NORTH ARLINGTON • NJ 07031

RATES AT HISTORIC LOWS!

FREE

THINK AGAIN!

Analysis for Purchase & Refinance!

ROB PEZZOLLA • NMLS# 266181 • ROB@KEYPOINTMORTGAGE.COM

TEL: 201.998.9050 • FAX: 201.820.0505

Real Estate

DIRECTORY 761 Ridge Rd. Lyndhurst, NJ 201-460-8000

Semiao & Associates

213 Kearny Ave, Kearny, NJ 201-991-1300 572 Kearny Avenue Kearny, New Jersey 07032 Ph: (201)991-5719 F: (201)991-8860 www.midrealty.com

MID-REALTY, INC. Jarlynn Hyde Broker/Owner

“OUR SUCCESS HAS BEEN BUILT ONE SATISFIED CUSTOMER AT A TIME...”

The Bixler Group

The Bixler Group

Real Estate & Insurance Since 1891 758 Kearny Ave., Kearny 201.991.0032 BixlerEST1891.com

LLC

Keypoint Mortgage

North Arlington, NJ 201-998-9050 Rob@keypointmortgage.com

Arlington Real Estate Owned & Operated by the Capobianco family since 1924

201.991.0905

SCHUYLER SAVINGS BANK

Schuyler Savings Bank Mortgage Loan Dept.

20 Davis Ave. Kearny • 201-991-6078

Marlen DaSilva Office: 201-460-8000 ext. 102 Cell: 201-376-7200 dasilvamarlen@aol.com www.century21semiao.com

Semiao & Associates 761 Ridge Rd. • Lyndhurst Each office independently owned & operated.

To advertise, call 201-991-1600

Elks partner with HHS Peer Leaders The Harrison High School Peer Leaders have had a generous and longstanding relationship with the Harrison/ East Newark Elks. For 25 years, the Elks have sponsored high school students’ attendance at the annual Elks Statewide Leadership Conference. In years when peer leaders had physical challenges that prevented them from taking part in camping experiences, the Elks brought the leaders to Camp Moore and offered them an opportunity to train outdoors.

This year, the Harrison/East Newark Elks opened the lodge to the Peer Leaders and their advisers for an out-ofschool opportunity to train within their com-

Posing with Elks Exalted Ruler Larry Bennett are, standing from l., Kenny Vivanco, Luis Herrera, Jasmine Margalef, Jordalis Liranzo, Briana McTeigue, Jamileth Morales and Kenji Vivanco. Kneeling from l., are Michelle Gonzalez and Joan McNichol.

munity. The students know Exalted Ruler (and Councilman) Larry Bennett through his ongoing work with them and

through their participation in the Elks’ annual Walkout on Drugs. They have welcomed Bennett into their circle.

Santa set to collect food for needy at parade NORTH ARLINGTON – Santa and Friends will travel the streets of North Arlington in the borough Fire Department’s annual Santa Claus Parade & Food Drive beginning at 9 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 25.

They’ll make a noon stop at Fire Headquarters, 3 Legion Place.

This year, in conjunction with the Queen of Peace Food Pantry, the N.A. Fire Department will once again be collecting food, including canned goods, dry goods and nonperishable items, for needy residents for the holiday season.

Homeowners and tenants are invited

to leave bags of food items on your porches for pickup by Santa and Friends as they make their way through the borough.

Food collection boxes will also be accessible at Sadowski Auto Repair, 586 Ridge Road, and inside Borough Hall and the Senior Center prior to Nov. 25.

Schuyler School Students of the Month named Valerie Iacono, prinGRADE 1: Katelyn cipal of Schuyler School, Anticona-Alvarado, Maia Kearny, announces the Sierra and Mia Torterolo. following Students of the Month for October: GRADE 2: Christian Anfibio, Philip Dudek PRE-K: Lily Catramand Izabella Ortiz. bone, Matthew Corniel GRADE 3: Diego KINDERGARTEN: Casco Sanles, Lucas Angie Garcia, David DeSouza and Sebastian Lemagne Breeden and Santana.

Ryan Yang.

GRADE 4: Dynnel Dantas, Adrian Nogueira and Marcus Soares Silva.

GRADE 5: Pedro Diaz, Jonathan Fernandez, Gabriela Miranda and Raymond Zalenty.

GRADE 6: Daniel Alves, Santos TenorioCordova, Felix Torres and Kaila Casco Sanles.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

To submit an obituary: fax: 201-991-8941

obituaries@theobserver.com Anthony Evaristo Anthony Evaristo of Hawley, Pa., formerly of Kearny, died at home on Nov. 15.

He was 71.

Visiting was Sunday, Nov. 19, at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. A military service took place Monday, Nov. 20, at the funeral home. Cremation was private.

Tony is survived by his son and his wife James and Heather Thompson, his brother Arthur Evaristo, his grandson Anthony, his nieces and nephews, Karen, Maryanne, Vicki, Cheryl, Jeanine, Julie (his god-daughter), Billy and Breanna. He is also survived by his dear friends Bill, Carole and Billy Spanton.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project.

John P. Knapp John P. Knapp, of Lodi, formerly of Moonachie, died at home Nov. 15.

obituaries

He was 88.

Arrangements were by the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home in Kearny. Burial was in the Holy Cross Cemetery Mausoleum Chapel, North Arlington.

John is survived by his wife Gloria (nee Martin). He was the father of John Knapp, Barbara Monahan, Michael Knapp, Debbie Paparelli and the late Catherine Kaman and Richard Knapp. He is also survived by his sister Mary, 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Kearny at 11 a.m.

Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit at the funeral home on Friday, Nov. 24, from 5 to 8 p.m. Condolences and memories may be shared at thiele-reid.com.

Mr. Barbosa was born and raised in Newark before moving to Kearny in 1973.

He served in The U.S. Marines during the Korean Conflict.

Joseph was a Credit Manager for Liberty Mutual Insurance Joseph T. Barbosa Co. in East Orange, and also for Joseph T. Barbosa, 86, passed Kemper Insurance Co. in Sumaway on Sunday, Nov. 19, in St. mit, before retiring 23 years ago.

Michael’s University Medical He was a lifetime member of Center, Newark. the Disabled American VeterThe funeral will be from ans. the Thiele-Reid Family FuJoseph is survived by his dear neral Home, 585 Belgrove Drive, friends, Tom O’Malley, Bruce Kearny, on Saturday, Nov. 25, at Myer, Rosemary Sica, Tina 10 a.m.

Hulsman and many more lovA funeral Mass will be ofing friends. fered at St. Cecilia Church,

The Observer has a wide presence on social media.

Be sure to follow or like us on our pages. Visit:

for over 25 years.

Irene was predeceased by her husband, David P. Wilson (1959), and is survived by her sons, David P. Jr., John, Donald (Bernadette), and Robert (Iraci) Wilson.

Also surviving are her brother, John McDonald, as well as her grandchildren, Michelle, Donald, Sean, David, and Ryan, and five greatgrandchildren.

WILFRED ARMITAGE & WIGGINS FUNERAL HOME Mark G. Wiggins, Manager N.J. Lic. #3916

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.

596 Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657

Holiday smiles...

Home for Services

Mario Teixeira, IV, Manager, NJ Lic. #3757

Mario Teixeira, Jr. Director, NJ Lic. #2542 • Monique Teixeira, Director, NJ Lic. #4048

It’s no wonder Thanksgiving brings out so many smiles—we get to spend time with our families! As a family ourselves, we know just how important that is.

Newly renovated family owned and operated funeral home with multiple locations.

Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. Handicapped Accessible.

138 DAVIS AVE. • KEARNY, NJ 07032

(201) 991-2265 www.buyusfuneralhome.com

We’d like to wish you joy throughout Thanksgiving and the holiday season.

www.thiele-reid.com

585 Belgrove Drive | Kearny, New Jersey 07032

(201) 991-3344 | (201) 991-1031 ©adfinity

St. Jude O Holy St. Jude, Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles. Near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need, to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance.

Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return, I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. Saint Jude pray for us and all who invoke your aid. Amen. We Promise from now on to confess frequently and commune at least once per week having always present the life of the gospel. We thank you in advance St. Jude pray the prayer during 9 days, 9 times per day in a closed space and only asking for 3 miracles. Those that you will see fulfilled before the novena ends.

Should spread this prayer.

M.P.

fax: 201-991-8941

obituaries@theobserver.com

Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home

n www.facebook.com/theobservernewspaper n www.twitter.com/theobservernj n www.instagram.com/theobservernewspaper

Shaw-Buyus

To submit an obituary:

Irene S. Wilson Mrs. Irene S. Wilson, 92, of Avon, N.J., passed away on Friday, Nov. 11.

The funeral was held in the Condon Funeral Home, 684 Kearny Ave., Kearny (condonfuneralhome.com), on Monday, Nov. 20.

Interment was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

A former Kearny resident, Mrs. Wilson had lived in Avon

Engage with The Observer on social media

21

Steven R. Thiele, NJ Lic. No. 4077, Owner/Manager Philip H. Thiele, NJ Lic. No. 2383, Director

24 22

THE OBSERVER OBSERVER || WEDNESDAY, 2, 2015 THE WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER NOVEMBER 22, 2017

www.theobserver.com www.theobserver.com

TheObserver Observer is is not responsible The responsiblefor fortypographical typographical errors.

Credit for errors will not benot granted after the errors.

Credit for errors will be granted next week’s publication.

No changes or refunds. after the next week’s publication.

Deadline for changes. classifiedsNo is Monday by 3:00 PM. $10 fee for refunds.or Credits.

Deadline for classifieds is Monday by 3:00 PM.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

BELLEVILLE

KEARNY

BELLEVILLE lovely 6 large rooms, 1st fl. 3 BR’s, LR, Bathroom, large EIK w/ brand new cherry wood cabinets. Plus Porch, $1,600/month + utilities. 1 month security (973) 759-5929.

KEARNY Newly renovated, hardwood floors.

Laundry onsite. HT/HW included. 2 BR start at $1,250. 1 BR start at $1,050. Jr. 1 BR start at $975. (201) 289-7096

HARRISON HARRISON Newly Renovated 2 BR, $1,250/ month + utilities. 1 1/2 months security.

No Pets. No Smoking.

Avl. Now. (347) 276-0105 HARRISON Newly constructed home, 1st floor, 3BR, 3baths, Open Kitchen, H/HW not included, 1 car garage & 1 parking spot, $2,600 + 1 1/2 month security Available immediately No Smoking/Pets (201) 993-5575 HARRISON Newly constructed home, 2nd floor, 2BR, 2baths, Open Kitchen, H/HW not included, 1 parking spot, $1,850 + 1 1/2 month security Available immediately No Smoking/Pets (201) 993-5575 HARRISON 721 Harrison Ave 3 BR, LR, kitchen, 2 bathrooms. Laundry. $2,000/month Available Dec. 1st. (862) 588-4864

(201) 991-1600

www. theobserver.com

HARRISON Newly renovated 1B apt for rent separate utilities, close to PATH and shopping, off-street parking Available 12/1 862-215-6880

CLASSIFIEDS APARTMENTS FOR RENT KEARNY Arlington section, Basement apartment, possible super position, completely remodeled, 1 BR, couple preferred, background check required, no smoking, laundry facilities, fridge/stove supplied. Call 908-240-9302

KEARNY 1 BR apt. HT/ HW included. New Kitchen & Bath Elevated building. Laundry facility on premises. from $1,150/ month,. Call Sofia after 3pm 201-998-3516 or see super after 3pm 654 Elm St. Apt Basement 1.

KEARNY Arlington section. 3rd fl. 1 BR, LR, Kitchen, $1,100/month.

Utilities included. Avl. Jan. 1st. & Studio basement apt. $750/month, utilities included. Avl. Now. (201) 362-2264.

KEARNY Newly refurbished/painted, 2 BR’s with the option of a 3rd bedroom or office. Porch, EIK, with dishwasher, LR, DR, washer/dryer $1,400/month. Avl. Dec. 1st. No pets. no smoking.

(908) 322-7828

KEARNY 2 BR, 1 Bath in nice location, corner on Devon and Stewart, with basement for storage. $1,300/ month. 1 1/2 months security, no pets. If interested please contact Joanne at (973) 699-3146.

KEARNY 1 BR . HT/HW included. From $1,100/ month. See super 6 woodland Ave. Apt. 1, or call after 5pm 917-8588246 for appointment.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

PARKING FOR RENT

ITEMS FOR SALE

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

N.ARLINGTON

Parking for 14ft. trucks, SUV’s or Small vans call (201) 997-1500.

Table with tile top, 65 inch long and 35 in wide.

Comes with bench. Good Condition $75.00 Steel Blue bird cage with play top 18 inc. wide and 49 in hugh on stand $75.00 (201) 655-3819

Pizza delivery drivers wanted for Harrison & Kearny Area, FT & PT Avl. Call (973) 380-9007.

$$ NOW HIRING! $$

HIGH-PAYING PART TIME text (973)277-6428

Now Hiring Harrison Nails Must Have Experience Positions Available Immediately Call (973) 268-2559

Full time medical assistant/Receptionist.

Experience required and must be proficient in EMR system. Must be fluent in English & Spanish. Competitive salary and weekends off. To apply please email to: thoracicmedical@gmail.com.

Roofers & Carpenters needed. Must have experience installing shingles & Flat roof.

Must not be afraid of heights.

Call 973-481-9319

N.ARLINGTON 2 BR, apt. 1 bath, LR, Kitchen, basement laundry room, garage and backyard. $1,750/month Close to schools and transortation. Quiet St. No pets.

No smoking. Avl. Now (201) 970-2557 (201) 997-3517 or (551) 253-9360.

N.ARLINGTON 2 BR, LR, Kitchen, Dishwasher, refrigerator, W/D, No pets. No Smoking. Near Schools & Transportation. Avl. now. (201) 9985070 N.ARLINGTON 1 BR garden apt. $1,100/ month. HT/HW included.

Parking space. No pets.

(201) 342- 2206.

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT KEARNY Professional office space on Kearny Ave. 1 1/2 months security. 900 sq.ft. Proximity to PATH & Bus lines. Avl. Nov. 1st. (201) 362-5028 or (201) 889-3118.

KEARNY Office space for rent for Avl. Dec. 1st.

(973) 668-7386

SELF STORAGE

N.NEWARK N.NEWARK SECTION 8 preferred, 1 BR, 1st fl.

2 BR and 3 BR. Near all Transportation and Buses. Completely renovated. Call 973-2028580.

KEARNY Modern 2nd Fl. 3 BR, LR, DR, Large EIK 2 baths, carpet & H/W floors, C/A, laundry hook up, 1 parking space utilities separate. Close to school bus stop. No pets. FURNISHED ROOM No smoking. $1,600/ FOR RENT month. 1 month secuKEARNY Totally Reno- rity. Avl. Dec. 1st. Call Btw vated 3rd fl. apt. 3 BR’s, 4pm-8pm only.(201) 755N. ARLINGTON Excellent $1,300/month. 1 month 4511. area. One min. walk to Bus security. Utilities SeperStop to NYC. No kitchen. ate. No pets. Avl. Now. No Pet. No smoking. Fur(973) 979-1383.

KEARNY 355 Kearny nished. Shared bathroom.

Ave. 1 BR, LR, kitchen, All utilities included. One hardwood floors, HT/ month security. $500 KEARNY Beautiful newly HW inc. $1,000/mth. Avl. monthly. Call (201) 937renovate 3 LG BR, EIK, Dec. 1st.(201) 283-2729 4861 after 3:15.

LR, Washer dryer hook or (973)465-0166. up, Close to NYC Trans, N.ARLINGTON $2,150/month + 1 1/2 months security. (201) KEARNY Nice, 1 BR, EIK, Furnished room with all 463-7034 Refrigerator. $1,100/ new furniture, refrigeramonth + utilities. 1 1/2 tor, microwave w/ A/C. months security. No pets. $625/month. all utiliNo smoking. Avl. Dec. 1st. ties including internet.

KEARNY 2nd fl. 4 BR’s Smoke free. References a (973) 309-5773.

LR, DR Kitchen, 1 Bath. must. 201-697-0541 No smoking, No pets, No parking. 1 1/2 months ROOM LYNDHURST security. Avl. Dec. 1st.

FOR RENT (973) 418-5677.

LYNDHURST 1 BR apt., 2nd floor. lots of closet KEARNY Room for rent, $1050/month. $500/month. 1 month KEARNY Remodeled space.

4 BR, DR/LR, 1 bath, HT/HW included. 1-1/2 security .cable, light & Duplex, laundry hook month security. Available gas included. No kitchen. up. Utilities Separate. Dec 15th. No smoking. Close to transportation. $2,000/mth. 1 ½ month Small Pet ok (201) 575- Avl. Nov. 30th. (201) 2799966 after 2pm. security. 973-767-8212 5270 KEARNY 3 BR, $2,200/ month, 2 car garage, 2 parking spaces, 2 BR $1,400/month, 1 car parking space, utilities separate, 1 month security, No pets. W/d included. Avl. Dec. 1st.

973-454-4536.

Don’t forget to follow The Observer on:

&

To place an ad call: 201-991-1600 classified@theobserver.com classifi ed@theobserver.com

FREE $30 Amazon gift card when you lease any self-storage unit at Kearny Drive-Up Storage!

Also, receive entry to win a $100 Amazon gift card when you mention OBSERVER. Offer through November 17th. Drive-Up Storage located at 445 Hickory Street in Kearny, NJ (off Midland Ave). Call 201-997-1787.

MOVING SALE

25 Never played opera complete albums, famous artist, LP Vinyl Original packaging, very reasonable Call (201) 991-8740

CAR FOR SALE 2006 Volkswagen Jetta, good condition, runs strong, 143,000 miles.

Asking $1,200 or best offer. (201) 467-1010.

HALL FOR RENT

Kearny 3 piece sofa set, dinning set, newer wood china cabinet all items negotiable call 407-5067905 or text 973-4596183 for pictures!

Full/Part Time help wanted for small office.

Data Entry, Answer Phones, and other office duties. Please reply to email only. email address is hired973@gmail.com

Teacher’s Aide PT afternoon hours Helping with children, Day care in Kearny. Please Call Between 3:00-6:00p.m.

(201) 991-5684 Hall Available Mid week special.

Price Break-Call Parties, Business Meeting, & Functions (201) 991-9865 (203) 864-8243 Max 80 people.

Furniture for sale. Everything must go. No reasonable offer will be rejected.

Please call 201-289-6051

November 25 & 26 9am4pm. Everything Must Go. Washer/Dryer, Refrigerator, treadmill, King size bed, dresser and 2 side tables, dining room table with 6 chairs, bunk-bed, China closet, children’s bikes, brand new ice box, gourmet cooking set with burner, chargeable kids car, wallpapers and much more. 257 Forest St Kearny, NJ

Looking for dental receptionist, bilingual Spanish & English.

Please Call (201) 998-1400.

Property Inspectors FT/PT in your area.

Free training provided. msangelabove@ comcast.net.

(732)766-4425

Van Driver/Van Aide – Pathways to Independence, Inc. in Kearny, NJ is seeking candidates to transport and work with individuals withdevelopmental disabilities. Position is approximately 25 hrs per week,Mon-Fri (6:45AM-9AM & 2:15PM4:30PM), split shift. Pay rate is $9.50/hr.for driver & $8.88/hr for Van Aide. We offer paid time off & holiday pay,retirement saving. Candidates must have a valid driver’s license - clean driving record & HS/GED. Experience driving vans preferred. Apply inperson at our main office M-F 9am-4pm located at 60 Kingsland Ave, Kearny, NJ 07032. www.pathwaysnj.org

ANNOUNCEMENT REFLEXOLOGY

THE LOTUS Spa & Tea

by Lemarx

Specializing in Traditional Eastern • Foot Reflexology • Deep Massage Aromatic Herbal Teas 613 Bloomfield Ave. Verona, NJ 07044 (973) 559-1193 www.THELOTUSSPATEA.COM

WE WILL BE CLOSED FOR THANKSGIVING THURSDAY, NOV. 23RD AND FRIDAY, NOV. 24TH DEADLINES FOR CLASSIDIEDS WILL STILL BE ON MONDAY BEFORE 3PM. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS YOU CAN REACH US AT (201) 991-1600.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

24

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2015

www.theobserver.com www.theobserver.com

The TheObserver Observerisisnot notresponsible responsiblefor fortypographical typographical errors. errors.Credit Creditfor forerrors errorswill willnot notbe begranted grantedafter afterthe the next week’s publication.

No changes next week’s publication. No changesor orrefunds. refunds.

Deadline for classifieds is Monday by 3:00 PM. Deadline for classifieds is Monday by 3:00 PM.

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Looking for some Extra holiday cash?

Seasonal Christmas Employment could be your answer… Christmas Kettle Workers Ages 14+ (working permit required from your school for ages 14-17) $8.44 per hour November 17th- December 23rd, 2017 Monday-Saturday Applications Available September 8th from 9:30-1:00 p.m.

(Monday through Friday) The Salvation Army of Kearny 443 Chestnut Street (201) 991-1115 Contact: Lt. Hwang Lim or Rebeca Escobar

JC On the Move C&C Transport Inc. 1 Slater Drive, Elizabeth, NJ

WE ARE LOOKING FOR CLASS A RIVERS FT/PT, EXCELLENT PAY, FLEXIBLE HOURS 100% DROP & PICK. NO PIER WORK WE DISPATCH 24/7 365 DAYS A YEAR.

CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

HANDYMAN SERVICES

Taxi driver needed for Classic CompanyNewark and bookkeeper for office. Please Cal l (862) 202-5765 or Fax resume to (551) 580-7294.

C.N.R. Contracting

HANDYMAN Do all types of home repair at reasonable cost.

Free Estimate AUGIE (973) 614-4679

A.A.

Drinking Problem?

We can Help?

Call A.A. 24 hours 1-800-245-1377 www.nnjaa.org

(973) 620-0073.

CLEANING SERVICES

Tractor Washer - Truck wash facility located in South Kearny is in need of 1st shift Tractor Washers.

No experience necessary. $9.00 per hour. Please call Edgar at 201-790-6804.

Couple from Poland will clean houses, apartments, offices.

References.

(201) 997-4932 Leave message.

HABLAMOS ESPANOL Y FALAMOS PORTUGUES

Tank Washer - Food Grade - Food Grade Tank Wash facility in South Kearny needs a Tank Washer for 3rd Shift (11:00 PM - 7:00 AM). No experience necessary - Will Train. Starting salary is $12.00 per hour.

Please call Edgar at 201-790-6804.

CDL Class A Driver - South Kearny tank cleaning company has immediate opening for 3rd Shift (11:00 PM - 7:00 AM) yard switcher. Must have CDL Class A, clean background & verifiable work history.

Starting salary at $18.00 per hour. Holiday & Vacation paid. Please call Edgar at 201-790-6804.

Hotel Jobs •Room Attendant (Housekeeping) •House Person (Housekeeping) •Dishwasher/Stewart (Kitchen) •Banquet Servers (Food & Beverage) Positions listed above are Full Time & Part TimeApply in Person Wednesday & Friday from 11am-1pm or 2pm-4pm Crowne Plaza Hotel 50 Kenny Place Saddle Brook NJ, 07663 201-880-8250

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

“ Susan Sparkles” I provide own supplies. Good Rates and Great References.

Call Susan at (973) 743-2039.

• Concrete • Brick work • steps

• Driveway Seal

Coating

•Crack Repair

All types of Masonry Commercial & Residential

(201) 702-5979

Danny Construction All types of Masonry Work • Steps •Sidewalks •Ret. Walls • Chimney Build & Repair • Paver Patios • Brick Design • Plastering And all Types of Repairs (973) 902-6052 Free Estimates Belleville, NJ Martinez Construction Roofing • Chimneys •Basement•Gutter •Masonry•Chimney & Roof Leak Work Exterior and Interior (201) 952-0076 Lic # 13VH06939900

www.Martinezchimney.com.

FIRST TIME ADVERTISERS! Pay for 3 weeks, Receive 3 weeks FREE! 1x1: $81 • 1x1.5: $124 • 1x2: $162

AD COLOR FOR AN EXTRA CHARGE (Cleaning Service, Construction, Masonry, etc.)

Plus FREE Internet Exposure.

Call us for more information.

Ads must be emailed or faxed!

Place your ad online: www.TheObserver.com > Click on Classifieds > Submit Classified (201) 991-1600 OR EMAIL CLASSIFIED@THEOBSERVER.COM

DO IT ALL Interior Exterior new & repairs.

All types of carpentry.

Reasonable rates, quality work, reliable, experienced.

13VH06620900 (201)991-3223

HEATING & COOLING Courageous Plumbing HVAC LLC LIC .#11103 • Air Conditioning • Hot Air Furnaces • Central Air, Humidifier, UV Light,Duck Cleaning,Visa & Master Card, Finances offer with up to 24 payments, no interest (201) 206-4845

HOME IMPROVEMENT

FM Property Home Repairs & Improvements • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Doors • Floors • Windows • Painting • Decks All types of repairs Lic. # 13VH05674000 Fully Insured

201-428-7160

G & R Builders

Roofing, Siding, Windows, Doors, Decks, Painting, Tiles & Masonry, Sheet Rock. All types of Carpentry.

Lic. #13VH02536200

Free Estimates 20% Senior Citizen Discounts

(201) 893-0656

FENIELLO CONTRACTING LLC. BASEMENT RENOVATIONS NO MORE WASTED SPACE. Baths, Kitchens, Deck, Painting. All types of Home Improvement.

Quality work Fair prices Fully insured.

Lic# 13vh03006100

(201) 906-2422

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN

• Lawn Maintenance • Spring Clean-up • Design Retaining Walls • Pavers • Tree Service • Install Fence & Repair Free Estimates & Fully Ins.

Eder (201) 997-9271 www.copacabana landscaping.com

MARIO ESPOSITO LANDSCAPING LLC Fall Clean-Up Lawn maintenance Top Soil • Mulch Snow Removal Free Estimates

201-438-3991 MOVING & DELIVERY

JR Trucking Moving and Delivery Service Inc. We can Save Time & Money Commercial & Residential Free Estimate.

Ask for Will

(973) 477-1848.

NUTRITION CENTER Nutrition Center

6 North 3rd St. Harrison, NJ 7 days a week.

For Everyone Please call us for a free demonstration or stop by our center.

Ask for Angra (973) 280-8469 Hablamos Espanol y Falamos Portugues

To place an ad call: 201-991-1600 classified@theobserver.com classified@theobserver.com PAINTING & DECORATING

RUBBISH REMOVAL

•Concrete, • Brick

JR’s Clean up service homes, yards, garages and more.

Our Prices will be the best. No hassles.

On the spot will get it done.

Senior discounts.

Fully insured.

(201) 774-1486.

work • steps • Stone Walls • Drywall • Tiles, • Painting • Sheetrock • Drywall • Plastering ALL types of Masonry Free Estimates (973) 943-2254

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24

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

Learning about college, courtesy of WCA KEARNY — The Woman’s Club of Arlington has a long history of sponsoring outstanding high school female juniors for attendance at Girls’ Career Institute (GCI), formerly called Girls Citizenship Institute.

GCI is an annual program at Douglass College which was founded by the clubwomen of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs

(NJSFWC).

This year, the delegate sponsored by the Woman’s Club of Arlington was Naomi Miranda. In addition, Sarenna Enright, another highly qualified Kearny High School junior, was chosen by the NJ state GCI Chairperson to receive a scholarship to also attend.

Enright had an opportunity to attend the October meet-

ing of the Woman’s Club of Arlington and provide feedback on her experience. She found it to “be better than expected” and felt that there was a “real connection among participants.”

Enright says she enjoyed the dorm experience — a real eye-opener, different from living at home. She especially appreciated the presentation by a female police officer who

Saying farewell

May 2018

young women learn about career choices from women working in a variety of professions trades and academic disciplines.

The GCI delegates have the further opportunity to network with other delegates from all over the state. Many GCI delegates establish lasting friendships which are formed during this four-day mini-college experience.

Garfield School’s October SOTM

A longtime staple of the Belleville Public Library & Information Center, Gloria Morriello retired as a parttime library assistant Nov. 22. Library staffers and friends wished her well at a retirement luncheon Nov. 15.

Morriello began her 18-year association with the library as a volunteer and was hired after a paraprofessional spot on staff opened up.

Cruise to Alaska

emphasized how hard it was to be treated equally in that field.

Her greatest take-away is that she is now confident she would be successful in an allwoman’s school. In fact, she is applying to two of them.

This year, delegates experienced a sample of college life by living in a dorm, eating in a cafeteria and by attending lectures and workshops. The

Curtis Brack, principal of Garfield School in Kearny, announces the Garfield School Students of the Month for October: Joao Barbosa, Sophie Succi, Bryan Gonzalez, Livia DaSilva, Talya Ali, Jason Paltin, Melissa

Morais, Izael Moya, Alexander Pereyra, Gabriel Lopes, Jake Weber, Leticia DeSouza, Mason Gryckiewicz, Aurora Latona, Fizza Raza, Eduardo Ramos, David Velloso, Aracely Vazquez, Jacob Wolfart, Angela Tran and Camila Ospina.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

MELHAM

Continued from Page 2 outreach efforts via social media,” he said. “Through my company, AlphaDog, I built three mayor’s action centers so those towns can more efficiently respond to residents’ concerns.”

Melham said he would schedule night hours for the township Construction Office, get rid of the rule that bans businesses from having a liquor license if another such business exists within 750 feet and put a ‘clean and lien” law into place to deal with abandoned properties.

“And we should boost our sense of pride,” Melham said, by sponsoring events like “Restaurant Week” or by “identifying key commercial intersections and beautifying them” by installing plant and flower boxes and asking local merchants to water them.

While these suggestions may not seem particularly splashy, Melham said: “I’m all about taking small bites” and building on them.

Melham questioned local government’s spending habits, noting that the municipal budget has grown from $24 million in 2003 to nearly $49 million

25

‘Nutley bought up empty lots to create more municipal parking to support their commercial area.

We have built nothing to help our retail on Washington Ave.’ — Michael Melham today. “We need to look at new hirings in the past year and a half in particular – all political,” he said.

Asked what he’d to do as mayor to grow Belleville’s revenues, Melham said he’d push to change the township master plan to allow for “more flexibility” in a more imaginative use of land.

As an example, Melham said: “Nutley bought up empty lots to create more municipal parking to support their commercial area — we have built nothing to help our retail on Washington Ave.” He said he agreed with

those residents who have opposed big multi-unit residential projects in redevelopment areas.

Instead, he said, “we need mixed-use commercial development with very low density residential.”

“Belleville is a place with 36,000 people shoved into 2 square miles — we don’t have the capacity for big apartment complexes,” he said. Prior township

approvals granted for an 80-unit residential building on Washington Ave. on the old Bigelow Motors lot is an example of bad planning, he added.

For the 24-acre former Walter Kidde property, the township would be wise to consider using its power of eminent domain to control its destiny; for the old Roche site, a “multi-level commercial development

building” would make sense; and for the land bordering the Belmont Ave. supermarket, a project that would make Silver Lake “a destination for young professionals,” maximizing the presence of the Light Rail, incorporating residential “studios and one-bedrooms with commercial components” would work, Melham said.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

WEST

Continued from Page 5 caught a touchdown pass from Ken O’Brien. To this day, I wear No. 85 to every game.”

That same game, in which the Jets upended the Dolphins 51-45 in overtime, Walker grabbed a total of four touchdown passes — setting a single-game Jets record that has yet to be broken.

Coincidentally, the Dolphins were the losers in the first Jets games watched

by West’s son, Frank Jr., in 2006 and by his stepdad Bill Elias in 1966.

In a brief profile that appears on the Jet Fan voting website, someone clearly very close to the officer says that “his life revolves around this team.

He cannot plan a vacation or RSVP to a wedding until the [team] schedule comes out.”

Just how far West’s dedication to his team goes is evident from his participation in pre-home game activities — as a regular tailgater — to his donning a Jet Green Santa suit for holiday season games to documenting each Jets’ season by shooting an estimated 50,000 pictures and compiling a type of “yearbook.”

“I believe I’m the only person to be named ‘Tailgater of the Game’ twice, first in December 2014 and then in October 2016,” West asserted. He characterizes his elaborate setup as “the most appealing looking in the parking lot.”

Proof of the pudding, he says, is his faithful following, ranging from “50 on an average day to about 200 for opening day or divisional games.”

West says they appreciate his “signature dishes” like his empanadas, pork bellies,

Caribbean Jerk pork chops and stuffed jalapenos.

“My buffalo wings are unmatched,” he added.

He’s also shown off his culinary skills on the Food Network show “Chopped” and, as a Jets representative, was declared a winner on an episode that aired Oct. 18, 2016. West’s profile notes he “offered to forego the $10k prize to just have a Jets chant air on the episode. He was denied so he chanted his last name in Jets fashion hoping the world would know who he was representing.”

Because the program was taped (in the parking lot of Redd’s Restaurant & Bar, Carlstadt) in advance of the broadcast, West was obliged to sign a nondisclosure agreement so he said he “carried the secret around for four or five months” until the program aired.

When it did, the owner

of Redd’s made available space for a huge viewing party which, according to West, “about one-third of the (Kearny) police department came out to watch,” for which he said he footed the bill.

West credits the Jets organization for providing access to the Jets’ practice facility in Florham Park and even in the team locker room (excluding during games).

He got a big kick out of parading around MetLife Stadium costumed as then-Jets coach Rex Ryan during halftime at a game played on Halloween night.

Because of his physical resemblance to Ryan, a lot of perplexed fans actually mistook him for the coach, West said.

Members of the Jets faithful may recognize West from his appearance – along with other season ticketholders – on the Time Warner TV show “Jet Life.”

When he’s not cooking up a storm before a home game, you can find No. 85 rooting for the Green & White from his end zone seat, just a few rows from the field.

Asked to recall his second favorite moment as a fan (next to Walker’s achievement), West replied: “Every snap is my biggest thrill.”

One interesting footnote: West never played football for his alma mater, Bayonne High; instead, he went out for track and field. “I was a javelin thrower,” he said, “and I ended up dislocating my shoulder at a meet in Kearny.”

Here’s the link to visit for voting: www.newyorkjets. com/sweepstakes/ fanhalloffame.html.

Deadline for voting is 11:59 p.m. Nov. 26. There is a limit of one vote per person using only one email address per day. Voters must be age 18 or older.

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28

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

E XPE CT B ETT ER

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© 2016 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Each Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate. Franchise is independently Owned and Operated. Statistics based on information derived from NJMLS for all sales transactions made from 1/1/16 to 12/31/2016, deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Interested in a career in real estate? Email: Colette@mycoccia.com or call 973-476-8051