The Observer e-Newspaper — 13 May 2020 by The Observer Newspaper

Wednesday, 13 May 2020

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Vol. CXXXIII, No. 1

MORE ON THE INSIDE NAPD launches online reporting of minor crimes See Page 8

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

STATE V. HIGHER ED? What’s happening when students whose learning takes place hands-on can’t get licensed with schools closed?

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

I Most of the time, when we think of higher education, we envision classroom lectures and theory. But with all schools forced into distance learning, what happens to the students being prepared in environments, such as depicted above, where hands-on learning isn’t just the norm, it’s required for licensing? At Eastwick College, Nutley, let’s just say it’s been a challenge.

n the weeks leading up to now, we’ve seen on TV and even on the pages of this newspaper how so many people have been grateful for the people on the front lines battling COVID-19. Whether it’s in clapping for healthcare workers, car caravans to show appreciation to those who work at Alaris or groups sending lunches to first responders, it’s been wonderful to see people coming together

for those who are risking their lives, every single day, because of this pandemic. But we got to thinking. What about the people who work behind the scenes in healthcare settings, mostly in hospitals. Many of the people who work in positions not occupied by doctors and nurses still have to be well trained at places like Nutley’s Eastwick College. We keep hearing about See EASTWICK, Page 17

Man whose son took own life discusses suicide during a pandemic By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

erald “Jerry” Appelstein has experienced a life of highs and lows. He’s had a successful career in the oil business. He’s a noted arts philanthropist. And several years ago, he lost his son, Jason, to suicide. Appelstein, a member of the Foundation Board at Montclair State

University, is on a mission now — to bring greater awareness to the world about this epidemic that has cost so many wonderful human beings their lives. And, recently, he sat down with Lisa Feorenzo, The Observer’s co-owner, and journalist Kevin Canessa, on a Zoom call (which you may view in its entirety at www.theobserver.com) to discuss suicide — and then to relate it to a COVID-19 world.

Why he’s doing this Appelstein had planned to do a tribute to his son, Jason, before the pandemic hit. It would have benefitted the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in conjunction with ballet and the performing arts. Without the benefit, instead he went on the Donna Drake Show, which airs on TV-10/55 Saturday mornings at 6:30 a.m. As the show began, the host, Drake,

introduced Appelstein as the father of a child who “committed suicide.” While it shocked him — he’d never been introduced that way before — he was taken aback by it all and was also enamored by Drake’s compassion. And it led him to think of something President Bill Clinton once said when he met the late former President of South Africa Nelson Mandela. “And he said, ‘You don’t judge a man See SUICIDE, Page 15

IMPORTANT COVID-19 INFORMATION FOR Hudson, Bergen & Essex Counties Hudson County Testing Center: Hudson Regional Hospital, Secaucus. By appointment only. Pre-screening required. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Call (201) 388-1097 or (646) 862-1161. Essex County Testing Center: Weequahic Park, Newark. By appointment only. Pre-screening required. Call (973) 324-9950 to schedule appointments or for hours/days of operation. Bergen County Testing Center: Bergen Community College, Lots B & C, Paramus. Must be NJ resident & symptomatic. 500 tests per day. Asymptomatic patients will not be tested. More information may be found at www.theobserver.com.

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Wednesday, May 13, 2020

SISTER FRANCIS RAFTERY, NUN

Sister Francis, she grew up in Kearny and went to the sinceclosed St. Cecilia Grammar hough she was School. And she is an alumna born in Orange, of the CSE’s Class of 2004. Sister Francis She was one of the lucky ones, Rita Raftery spent having the Kearny connection many of her formative years and the CSE connection, with in Kearny. She’d go on to Sister Francis. (They are seen spend 62 years as a member together in this 2004 photo at of the Sisters of Charity of St. right.) Elizabeth and during those Egbert recalled for The years, she left an impact on Observer how from her first the lives of so many people — day at the college and on, too many to keep a count. Sister Fran was present at so Sister Fran, as she was many events. This is hardly known in her later years, died the case for most university advertising@theobserver.com May 2, 2020, at St. 201-991-1600 Joseph’s presidents. But for Sister Hospital, Wayne. r: Client: nature. Fran, it was second She was 86. “Upon stepping foot on Some who knew Sister campus during freshmen Francis, whether as residents orientation move-in day, of Kearny or as students of the hustle and bustle was the College of St. Elizabeth, a welcome distraction to where she served as president the feelings of uncertainty. for many years, took time to Everyone was so welcoming dvertising: Here is the with a new photo of Jarlynn Hyde: remember her —updated all quite template and helpful; you immediately fondly. felt like you belonged. You Carla Figueiredo Egbert didn’t have a choice,” Egbert busyness of that day was now lives in South Jersey, in a says. “And amongst all of Sister Fran, the president of town called Dorothy. But like those on campus during the the college. She was a comfort during a day of unknowns and goodbyes that were really hellos to the next four years of our lives.” From that day forward, Sister Fran seemed to be, well, everywhere. Though Presented by Jarlynn Hyde she was responsible for the Broker/Owner day-to-day operations of the college, she always found time VIRTUAL TOURS Virtual tours are sometimes a measurements. This enables the to be present to the students, By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

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great marketing tool for a listing, especially if the listing has a unique floor plan that might be difficult for a buyer to figure out when initially viewing the property online. There are many kinds of virtual tours, and these are reflected in the price. The one thing they all have in common, though, is that they knit the pictures and features of the house together in a slide show. This allows the agent to creatively walk you through the house. Some tours can also incorporate a floor plan with accurate

buyer to see where staircases are, how rooms relate to each other, and other helpful information. Although virtual tours are wonderful tools for selling a property, the tried-and-true, low-tech approaches still play an important role in bringing buyers and sellers together. Before you plan your next real estate move, call us or stop by. No one knows the area like we do, and we can put that knowledge to good use for you. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”

whether the events were big or small. “Freshmen orientation, junior ring ceremony, scholarship receptions, department events, reunions, etc.,” Egbert says. “But she would also be at the little things: on campus sporting events, our first day of micro teaching, course selection day, move-in days, Holiday Progressive Dinner (a celebration that would be

spread throughout different areas of the campus for students to participate in), spirit week, etc. She just seemed to know when it would make a meaningful impact to be there.” Egbert’s admiration for Sister Fran has lasted to this very day. “During my time at CSE, I developed such an admiration for Sister Fran as she was truly not only a phenomenal leader, but an all-around impeccable human being. She was there for those last few moments on campus, just as she was for those first few moments … It was with heavy hearts that my friends and I learned of her passing. We all owe our time at ‘The Convent’ in part to her, as it was under her leadership that we attended the college and developed the friendships and gained the education that we did. She will leave behind a grand legacy, one that will not soon be forgotten.” On Facebook, scores of graduates of CSE also fondly recalled Sister Francis and the impact she had on their lives. Jennifer Alice was one of them. “So sad to hear about the passing of Sister Fran, who was the president of CSE while I was a student there,” Continued on the next page

Visit out website at: www.midrealty.com P.S. Many buyers like to view virtual tours exclusively without even looking at the pictures. All the information, such as price, agent, and amenities, are usually included.

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RAISED IN KEARNY, DIES AT 86 The College of Saint Elizabeth bestowed on her its prestigious Seton Award in 1991 and she was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Seton Hall University in 2004. She was a born educator and was deeply loved by the students who experienced her as a professor and as a mentor. Honoring her Irish heritage, Sister Francis was the

Continued from previous page she said. “Always proud to go to a college with a female president. Sister Fran, you will be missed.” Kelly Gambuti was another. “Sister Fran was so much more than the college president. She was personally invested in the education of every student that stepped foot onto the campus,” Gambuti said. “She knew each of us by name, she knew all of our majors, the clubs we were involved in. More than that she was always there … rest in peace. My life is forever changed for knowing you.” Sister Francis served as a teacher at the Academy of St. Elizabeth, Convent Station, and at St. Thomas the Apostle School, Bloomfield, in her early years. For 22 years, she was a member of the faculty of the College of Saint Elizabeth, serving during that time as chairwoman of the Education Department. She served as Assistant Provincial (19871995) and then as Provincial (1995-1997) for the Western Province of the Sisters of Charity. In 1997, Sister Francis was appointed the President of the College of Saint Eliza-

beth, serving in that role for 16 years. During her tenure as president, Sister Francis oversaw the construction of Annunciation Hall, the refurbishing of Santa Rita Hall as the administration building for the college and was responsible for the development of the first doctoral program in educational leadership. Upon retirement from the CSE, she became coordinator of patient relations at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson, a position she held for seven years, where she demonstrated her warmth and compassion to patients and their families as well as the staff of the medical center.

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Grand Marshall of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in West Hudson, several years ago, which Egbert fondly recalled. “In 2011, I heard the news that Sister Fran was named Grand Marshal of West Hudson St. Patrick’s Day Parade. You better believe I made the two-hour trek up to North Jersey from Atlantic County to see her walk proudly down Kearny Avenue,” Egbert says.

“Even while walking down the main avenue, waving to everyone she saw, she made you feel like she was looking right at you when she waved.” Sister Francis was the sister of Bill Raftery, a longtime basketball coach and announcer for CBS Sports, ESPN, the YES Network and the former SportsChannel New York.

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IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION Food & Dining Directory......................................................Page 3

Health & Wellness Directory..................................................Page 11

Take Out Food Directory......................................................Page 5

Obituaries................................................................................Page 13

Opinon...................................................................................Page 6

Business Directory..................................................................Page 16

Bridging the Gap..................................................................Page 7

Classiﬁeds ........................................................................Pages 18-19

Sports....................................................................................Page 9

Tax Time...................................................................................Page 19

4 Eagle Scout’s project will bring new life to Hedges Hall The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

Gathering space, one of Kearny’s largest, got much needed facelift

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

he rejuvenation of one of the the largest assembly spaces in all of Kearny was a substantial undertaking for the Eagle Project of Jonathan Reverendo, (seen at work in photo at right) a Life Scout and Patrol Leader in Unit 305 and Kearny sophomore at St. Peter’s Prep in Jersey City. From February through September 2019, Scouts, leaders, members of the Knights of Columbus, and family toiled together in the

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basement of St. Stephen’s Church to beautify the frequently utilized Hedges Hall. It took several nights and weekends to extend and reframe the outer structure to the CCD office, clean and repaint the walls, trim, doors and window casings of the entire basement hall. Beyond beautifying the space with a lighter gray and darker gray trim color scheme, long wooden pews no longer being used in the church were repurposed as additional seating in the hall. The pews were positioned in the large window openings. Furthermore, each window was cleaned and adorned with new blinds and valances. The volunteer work was completed in various

sections to accommodate the continuation of meetings, catechism classes and events during the project timeframe. Reverendo raised approximately half of the $3,000 required to cover the expenses of wood and cleaning and painting supplies by hosting a scrap metal donation event in May 2019. The fundraiser was open to the public where unwanted metal was collected and recycled. As of result of his efforts, Reverendo was able to keep about 10,000 pounds of scrap metal from being littered or put into a landfill. Additionally, SherwinWilliams Paint Store in North Arlington applied a 50% discount toward large quantities of paint needed for the project. The remainder of the funds were collected through donations by the Knights of Columbus and parishioners at St. Stephen’s. To maintain the longevity of the revitalized Hedges Hall, Reverendo consulted with the Rev. Joseph Mancini, pastor of St. Stephen’s and sponsor of Unit 305, to create a new listing of hall rules. They were hung recently toward the entrance of the hall, above a credenza, to apply the finishing touch to the rejuvenation efforts of Reverendo’s Eagle Project.

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St. Peter’s Prep recently unveiled a banner at its Jersey City campus in a show of love and support for ﬁrst responders in the area, many of whom are Prep alumni and family members. Michael Gomez, Prep’s president, said: ‘We are in awe of all the people on the front lines and are so grateful for them. As always, we are proud to be located in the heart of Jersey City. Our students come from every town in Hudson County and from some 135 other communities in our state. In this time of turmoil, we are together as one Prep family.’

5 2 from Vermont nabbed on drug charges: Auteri

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com Two visitors from Vermont was arrested and charged with a slew of drug offenses after they allegedly fell asleep in a vehicle in Lyndhurst, Det. Sgt. Vincent Auteri, of the Lyndhurst Police Department, said last week. At approximately 7 p.m. Friday, May 1, Auteri says Sgt.

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Richard Holicki, Det. Billy Kapp and Officer Matt Giunta responded to Kearney Street after it was reported two people were believed to be asleep in a Toyota Prius. When they approached the area, Auteri says they observed two individuals asleep in the vehicle. The officers woke the occupants and as the suspects exited the vehicle, they immediately ob-

served a number of hypodermic syringes resting near the center console, Auteri says. Their investigation identified the individuals as Justin Anderson, 39, of Burlington, Vermont, and Stephanie Rivers, 30, of Burlington, Vermont. Both suspects were detained and during a search of the vehicle, officers reportedly located 13 empty wax

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Jersey City, a few miles away. Both were released on their own recognizance with summonses after being charged with possession of cocaine, possession of prescription-legend drugs, possession of Suboxone, possession of hypodermic syringes, possession of drug paraphernalia and being under the influence of CDS, Auteri says.

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paper folds, 151 anticonvulsant pills, a Suboxone film, small amounts of cocaine which also included a rock of crack cocaine, 86 hypodermic syringes and an assortment of drug paraphernalia. Auteri says the suspects claimed they couldn’t recall how they made it to a quiet residential street in Lyndhurst, but said they were in New Jersey to visit friends in

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Wednesday, May 13, 2020

Thoughts & Views EDITORIAL

New sergeants @ the Lyndhurst PD The Lyndhurst Police Department recently promoted three patrol oﬃcers to the rank of sergeant. On Thursday, April 23, 2020, all three, who had served in an acting sergeant capacity since December, were sworn-in by Mayor Robert B. Giangeruso and Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr. in separate ceremonies on the front lawn of Lyndhurst Town Hall. Only the oﬃcers’ immediate families were permitted to attend amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The new sergeants are Francis O’Rourke, who was hired by the Lyndhurst PD on Aug. 3, 1999; Charles Giangeruso, who was hired by the LPD on July 11, 2007; and Philip Reina, who was hired by the LPD on July 11, 2007. The sergeants will all be assigned to the LPD’s Patrol Division.

In thanks to the Archdiocese for expanding cemetery availability

his pandemic sure has stunk. In so many ways. The loss of life we’ve experienced — well over 70,000 Americans — is not anything any of us could have fathomed even so much as three months ago. Yet it’s a reality — and one that was made all the more difficult to deal with knowing that for countless families, the ability to mourn properly was just not possible. This was made all the more unbearable with the other reality that when someone was to be buried in a Catholic cemetery, only two family members could appear graveside, with a priest and funeral director ... until now. An op-ed penned to this newspaper by Andrew Schafer, the executive director of the Archdiocese of Newark’s Cemeteries Office, clearly explained why it was necessary to limit the number of people at graveside services and why the cemetery was otherwise closed to the public. But that has all been adjusted. And we’re grateful that it happened after a video we shot, live, at the cemetery. That video had nearly 13,000 viewers and made a difference. A few days ago, on Mother’s Day, those who wished to visit their deceased loved ones were able to do so. Just a few days ago, the archdiocese began allowing up to 10 mourners to attend graveside services. Beginning next Monday, May 18, visitors will be able to visit graves between 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., every Monday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Sunday moving ahead. These changes were absolutely necessary and we commend Schafer, Maria Margiotta, the archdiocesan director of communications and, of course, Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, for making this happen. It will all require social distancing and proper face coverings — so to all who will now be able to go to Holy Cross and other Catholic cemeteries, we plead with you to do you part to ensure fellow cemetery visitors are allowed to be safe. The archdiocese did a great thing. Now, we most do our part to comply. And there is no room for disagreement there.

The Observer’s correction policy The Observer strives to bring our readers the best and the most accurate news. However, from time to time, there may be mistakes in what we report. As such, we take our obligation to report errors seriously. If you believe we’ve made an error, please send an e-mail to editorial@theobserver.com, indicating what is to be corrected. We will ensure a correction is noted (if necessary) in a future print edition — and online. If access to e-mail is not possible, please call us at 201-991-1600.

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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Wednesday, May 13, 2020

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Bridgingthe

GAP

Washington Middle School students recognized for outstanding remote work

t the request of Principal Mike Landy at Harrion’s Washington Middle School, Bridging the Gap is a little different this week. The following students at Washington Middle School, Harrison, have been recognized by teachers as the April Distant Learners of the Month. The program was instituted by Landy in March after schools closed and went to home-only instruction. Mr. Tim Green: (7th grade): Alex Sanchez, Erick Valerezo, Amy Ullrich, Rodrigo Burgo, Michaela Foteva. Mrs. Andrea Choffo: (6th grade): Bryan Fernandes , Matthias Burgo , Santiago Quintana , Sabrina Persaud, Brenda Souza Mrs. Fernandes (7th Grade): Renuka Gopalakrishnan, Samantha Cheng, Brandon Touzet, Yusra Zainab, Angel Cruz Cruz Ms. Jessica Rodrigues (8th grade): Gabriela Rodrigues Da Rocha, Samara Amorim, Vicky Guo, Manasvi Garg, Mateo Ruiz Rodas Mr. Jesus Huaranga (6th Grade): Sofia Jankowska (7th Grade): Juliana Soeira, Kendra Mercedes (8th Grade): Angela Sotil-Diaz, Kyleigh Toal Mrs Kartanowicz (6th grade): Andres Flores, Christian Gomez, Romeu Nunes, Xavier Hernandez, Leandro Nizama Mrs Kartanowicz (7th grade): Diego Corado, Darina Martirosova, Shannel Ochoa, Alexander Sanchez, Dalila Zamora Mrs Kartanowicz (8th grade): Yensen Carias, Danica Carr, Bettsy Cueva, Hadasa

Davila Mrs. Cafaro (7th grade): Kamila Krasuska, Nick Vergaray, Matthew Yllescas, Patricia Paz, Jordan Downs Ms. Antonovich (6th-8th): Jose Rosa, Tahlia Perez, Jimi Taylor Mrs. Castex: 8th Graders: Lailah Parrish, Naomi Kozierowski, Isabella Steffens, Sahid Tejada, Sarah Naranjo Mrs. Castex 7th Graders: Michaela Foteva, Kamila Krasuska, Ethan Liendo, Ashley Villalba, Shannel Ochoa Mrs. Castex: 6th Graders: Syed Haider, Makeyla Villalta, Matthias Burgo, Romeu Nunes Duarte Marquez, Zulema Vargas Baldeon Mr. Wroblewski: Isabelle Martinez (6), Jaylannie Pachas (6), Adriana Vila (6) Ashley Villalba (7th) Yannis Macas (8) Mrs. Harris (6th grade): Matthias Burgo, Emily Izquierdo Jimenez, Isabelle Martinez, Jazlyn Moya, Romeu Nunes Duarte Marques, Mr Ruiz (7th graders) Darina Martirosova, Brylon Rojas, Estefani DaSilva Rebecca Sardinha, Jacob Rodriguez Ms. S.: Olivia Abrantes (8), Anthony Campoverde (8), Azka Faisal (7), Nick Vergaray (7), Emmanuel Romero (6) Mrs.Titterington (7th grade): Joshua Cogollo, Felicia Mendes, Carlos Guaman, Michaela Foteva, Emily Miranda Ms. Laura Comppen 6th - Samantha Mira, Adriana Vila, Breaghan Toal, Jathan Carneiro Perfeito, Hanna Medina 7th - Jordan Downs, Eric Barrera-Paucar, Samuel Grijalba, Alex Ludena, Gabe

Campos 8th - Geena Aparcana, Vicky Guo, Amna Khatana, Hajar Zindine Mr. Carey (8th Grade): Alexandra Devita, Vincent Alarcon, Lailah Parrish, Marvin Dominguez, Danica Carr Mrs. Maziou (6th Grade): Santiago Quintana, Jathan Carneiro, Michelle Pereira, Zulema Vargas, Makayla Villalta, Rafael Arevalo Mrs. Cristalli (7th Grade): Alexandra Hernandes, Ryan Wu, Kamila Krasuska, Anthony Morejon-Rodriguez, Valerie Mangandid Gifted and Talented: Michaela Foteva (7), Abigalil Rosas-Lopez (7), Breaghan Toal (6), Kholoud Lacini (6), Naomi Kozierowski (8) Mrs. Madalena (8th Grade): Samantha Guerrero, Vincent Alarcon, Lollys Barrera, Marvin Dominguez, Kyleigh Toal Mr. DiRoma: Jayla Jacome (7th), Emily Ribeiro (7th), Sabrina Persaud (6th), Dherick Sanchez (7th), Tysaige Ortega (8th) Mrs. Kashi - (8th grade science) - Marvin Dominguez, Ruth Marca, Lollys Barrera, yamile bermudez Ms. Baggett - (8th Grade STEM) - Tiago Patrao, Kyleigh Toal, Naomi Kozierowski, Sahid Tejad, Gabriela Rodriguez Ms. Booth (6th grade ELA) - Rafael Arevalo, Giselle Bailon, Matthias Burgo, Mariana Quintana, Janelle, Parra Mrs. Morillo (8th grade ELA) - Ema Nunes Duarte Marques, Hajar Zindine, Madisyn Brown, Katelyn Javier, Marco Sanchez Roman Mr. Comprelli (ELA) - 6th Jathan Carneiro Perfeito and Angel Castellano

7th - Herman Chan and Dorimy Gomez-Abreu 8th - Josh Ferreira and Brandon Vega Mr. Dolaghan (7th grade)Shannel Ochoa, Annie Yamunaque, Karen Gulan, Anthony Morejon, Pamela Paz Mr. Alex Sieira 6th - Madison Morales, Sarah Vares, Joel Ramsey, Rafael Arevalo 7th - Samantha Cheng, Isaiah Santiago, Michaela Foteva, Joseph Loo, Sebastian Piñas 8th - Ruth Marca, Angela Sotil-Diaz, Abigail Lopez, Olivia Abrantes, Lucien Sosa, Lollys Barrera Ms. Wright:

6th: Zofia Jankowska 7th: Juliana Soeira 8th: Lucien Sosa Mr. Antunes (6th grade) Edward Rodriguez, Samantha Mira, Makeyla Villalta, Leandro Nizama, Richard Solis Mr. Stahl (8th Grade) Betsy Cueva, Krystal Vallego, Lailah Parrish, Barbara Pereira, Yensen Carias Mrs. McClelland : Sabrina Ali, Rashell Goycochea, Jaylin Espinosa, Dominica Quito, Santiago Quintana Mrs. Nankivell - 7th Grade - Herman Chan, 6th grade - Yarelis Naranjo, Jinnalee Acosta, 8th Grade- Sarah Naranjo, Joshua Ferreira

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Wednesday, May 13, 2020

North Arlington PD now taking some reports online

Retired Firefighter Carey laid to rest

Photo by Skyler J. Whitehead

A hearse with the casket of retired Kearny Fireﬁghter James F. Carey makes its way past Fire Headquarters on Midland Avenue last week. Members of the Kearny Fire Department line up to pay their ﬁnal respects as the procession headed to the cemetery in North Arlingon. Rest in peace, Jim.

The North Arlington Police Department is implementing an online police reporting because of the COVID-19 pandemic to minimize contact with the public, and to ensure the safety of residents and officers, the department announced last week. Residents may access the system by clicking visiting reports.csitech.com from a computer, mobile phone or tablet. After completing the necessary information, residents will be able to print the report for records. If the incident you wish to report is an emergency, a crime in progress or if it involves any type of significant injury, do not submit an online report, but

POLICE BEAT instead dial 911. The loss or theft of prescription medication, narcotics, or other controlled substances cannot be reported online. When you access the system, there is a chart that outlines the types of crimes that may be reported online. If you are unsure if you can report your incident using the online system, or for any other non-emergent incident that may require a police officer to respond, please call the North Arlington Police Department at (201) 991-4400, ext. 0, and a dispatcher will assist you.

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Wednesday, May 13, 2020

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Sports & Recreation WITH

Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

North Arlington softball smacked with pandemic version of ‘Murphy’s Law’

Kearny girls’ track: A season that could have been After enjoying a great cross country season and an even better indoor track season, the Kearny High School girls’ track and field program was all set to put a crowning jewel on the top of one of the best years in the school’s rich and storied track history. The pieces were all in place. Veteran head coach Al Perez downplayed it a little, but the Kardinals could have very well been the most dominant team in Hudson County. “I think we were going to be pretty good,” Perez said in an obvious understatement. “We pulled back a little during the indoor season, because we wanted to protect some of the younger kids and have them ready for the outdoor season. We didn’t want some of our top athletes getting beat up and tired, so we sat them down at the end of the indoor season to have them ready to go for outdoors.” Perez knew that the Kardinals were set to attain more glory in the spring. “We had a great fall season and an unbelievable winter season,” Perez said. “It was all there.” But then the coronavirus pandemic proved to be the only opposition the Kards just couldn’t beat. COV-

ID-19 put an end to the outdoor sports campaign, ending all hopes of more glory in the spring. “It was the best season we had in my 18 years here,” Perez said. “We had a chance to make a case for it being the best overall team that Kearny ever had all around. We had good distance runners and good middle distance runners. We had jumpers. We had all the events covered and covered well. I could tell that we were going to be even better in the spring than we were in the winter.” The Kardinals won the Hudson County Track Coaches Association Relay and Individual team championships during the indoor season. “Sometimes, athletes get to a point where they just plateau,” Perez said. “That was absolutely not the case with this team. They just kept getting better and better.” The Kardinals would have opened the season during the first weekend in April at an invitational event at Long Branch. “It’s always a great day there,” Perez said. “It’s the first Saturday in April and it’s the first time you’re out See VIEW, Page 11

Photos by Jim Hague

Junior Ashleigh Hall was set to return as the main pitcher in a three-hurler rotation for the North Arlington softball team. RIGHT: Senior Kayla Francisco was a three-year starter for the North Arlington softball team who earned All-NJIC honors a year ago at shortstop.

were excited. I was excited. It was the earliest we had been outside for practice. The North Arlington High The weather was outstandSchool softball team fell on ing.” some tough times the last And there was something two seasons. else for the Vikings to get The Vikings won just two pumped up about. The games last year – and abso- town’s softball facility on lutely none the year before. Schuyler Avenue was fitted So as she began her third with FieldTurf – much like season as the head coach of the James Zadroga Memothe Vikings, Danielle Cibelli rial Soccer Complex further was more than ready to en- on down Schuyler toward joy much more success with Lyndhurst. the Vikings this season. “I would say that we “We were looking forward were set to be a better team to a very big season,” Cibelli on the turf,” Cibelli said. said. “We had the addition “The more we got on the of some good freshmen. We new field, the better we were ready to move some got on it. We were able to people around. I thought judge ground balls better. we had the makings of a It really was going to make pretty good team. The girls a difference. They were By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

looking forward to it and I was looking forward to it. We were outside the whole week practicing.” But then, on March 11, the Vikings experienced a sense of “Murphy’s Law” – and we don’t mean Gov. Phil Murphy. “Murphy’s Law” is an old adage that dates back to the famed author Alfred Holt, who wrote in 1877 that “anything that can go wrong will go wrong.” Bingo. Murphy’s Law came out and strangled the optimism of the Vikings in the form of the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic that shut down the season abruptly and was officially See VIKINGS, Page 10

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Wednesday, May 13, 2020

ance.” The Vikings had a familiar name that was poised to take Continued from Page 9 over the duties of being the Vikings’ catcher. Incredibly, ended last week by Gov. Phil the new catcher has the same Murphy’s decree that will last name as the Vikings’ rekept all schools closed for the spected catcher in baseball. remainder of the school year. Grace Alho, the younger sis“I knew what we had,” Citer of North Arlington threebelli said. “And I knew it was sport standout Tony Alho, was going to be our best season all set to become the Vikings’ yet.” catcher in softball, much like Those were promisAll-NJIC backstop Tony does ing words, considering the for Paul Marcantuono and the Vikings posted a dismal 8-51 NA baseball squad. record over the last three “She is a little raw,” Cibelli seasons. said of the younger Alho. “But “We really had something to she has the pitchers down. look forward to,” Cibelli said. She’s handled the work that The Vikings had three we’ve given her. The good pitchers that they could count thing is that she wants to on this season, namely junior work. She wants to get better. Ashleigh Hall, sophomore Having Tony as a role model Maira Gutierrez and fabulous helps Grace.” freshman Shaelyn Morales. The first baseman was set “We were planning to use to be junior Elisa Fernandez, all three,” Cibelli said. “All had with help from sophomore something different to offer Lauren Velasquez. our pitching staff. We were “Elisa has made the good trying to keep batters off baltransition to first base,” Cibelli

said. “Lauren is a great hitter. She can hit bombs.” Sophomore Emma Magalhaes would have been the team’s second baseman. She led the Vikings in RBI last season. “She came onto my radar last year and caught my eye,” Cibelli said. “She is a very disciplined player. She has great work ethic. She also could play shortstop if needed, but she can handle either position.” Senior Kayla Francisco lost out on the opportunity to be the starting shortstop in her final year with the program. It’s always hardest on the seniors, who miss out on graduations, proms and the rest. Francisco, a fixture with the Vikings since she was a freshman, didn’t get the chance to go out on her terms. “She’s been a three-year starter,” Cibelli said. “She made the transition from second base to shortstop last year and did a great job. She’s

one of the best athletes I ever coached.” Francisco made Second Team All-NJIC last season. Sophomore Gabby Kaminsky was back for her second year at third base. Kaminsky had a successful freshman campaign at the hot corner, finishing second on the team behind Magalhaes in RBI. “She’s a good power hitter,” Cibelli said. “She has a strong arm. She stepped in last year and contributed right away.” Senior Marissa Burnell was to be the starting left fielder. “She made the transition from the infield to the outfield,” Cibelli said. “She wanted to get better in the outfield, so she worked hard. She was poised to have a good year at the plate this year.” Alexa Paparelli is another senior who would have been the starter in centerfield. “She was our catcher last year,” Cibelli said of Paparelli. “We moved her to

the outfield because of her arm. She also has some good speed. She could run through a wall for you.” Junior Katelyn Molina would have been the starter in right field. “She’s a very versatile player,” Cibelli said. “We could play her in all three outfield spots. She worked hard on her hitting. She has a very quick bat.” Velasquez would have seen a lot of time as the designated player because of her bat. But this was all for naught, as the winner was the coronavirus pandemic. “It’s unfortunate that we didn’t play,” Cibelli said. “We’re still going to be young next year. But I think we were ready to turn the corner this year. With our core coming back, the future looks very bright.” The only downside? The dedicated seniors won’t get the chance to experience the rapid turn of events.

together as a team. The kids also get to run in individual races. It’s an exciting day, a rewarding day. The weather

starts to turn warmer. You get excited.” Then, the second week of the season usually produces the Kearny Relays, where relay events are introduced, but it’s right on their own home track. At that point, Perez and his team kept the faith that there would be some semblance of a season. “We were dreaming and hoping that it would happen,” Perez said. “But by mid-April, I think I realized it was going to be very difficult that it

would happen or at the least very unlikely.” And as every day passed, it was another day where Perez was with his great team. “I truly missed not being around the team,” Perez said. “I missed not being at practice with them.” The quarantine has certainly dampened the spirits of everyone. “Some of the kids have reached out to me via phone calls or texts,” Perez said. “I was kind of putting off word

that the season was over. I didn’t want to do it.” But New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy made the decision easier for Perez last week, when he declared that the schools would remain closed for the remainder of the school year. With that, any hope of even a truncated season went right out the window like a race tag floating in the breeze. Perez said that he remained in contact with his team through Google Classroom.

VIKINGS

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Continued from Page 9

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Wednesday, May 13, 2020

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VIEW

Continued from Page 9 “Most of the kids knew that it was unlikely for us to have a season,” Perez said. “They were all holding on to hope.” Perez said that the Kearny track and field program has 20 seniors between boys and girls. His heart went out to those athletes. “Senior year is supposed to be special,” Perez said. “For track athletes, they work their way up the ranks. They get older, bigger, faster, stronger. It’s their turn to shine. So for them to lose that chance really stinks. It’s really tough. It’s always nice to see seniors mature and then give back to the program. Losing this year is really going to hurt us.” On the boys’ side, Nick Xavier is the top athlete that will graduate. Xavier won the 800-meter run at the HCTCA individual championships during indoor season and had to be considered a favorite to capture that gold medal again during outdoors. He was also looking to break the school record in the 400-meter intermediate hurdles. Xavier will continue his athletic career at NJIT in the fall.

“I always tell the boys to stay the course and they’ll get a chance to reach their goals,” Perez said. “Nick won’t get that chance.” Other senior boys include distance runner Brendan Solano, distance runner Gabe dos Santos, distance runner Peter Fernandez, Tyler Ruiz, who completed in the hurdles and the sprints, and Chris Leimberg, the starting football quarterback who competed in hurdles. Leimberg announced last week that he will continue his football career at Monroe College in the fall. “Solano was part of the track team for 12 seasons (cross country, indoor and outdoor for four years),” Perez said. On the girls’ side, the biggest loss to graduation will be Melissa Waters, who became the best hurdler in the history of the school. Waters competed in four events, including the 100-meter hurdles, where she more than likely would have challenged for the county championship. Waters was also a competitor in the triple jump, the long jump and one of the team’s relays. Waters received a substantial scholarship to continue her athletic career at NCAA Division I Wagner College of

800 and 1,600-meter runs. Julie Castillo is another key member of the girls’ team that is moving on. “She’s been a solid member of both the soccer team and our indoor and outdoor teams,” Perez said of Castillo. “She’s an All-County caliber athlete.” Castillo competed in the 400 and 800-meters, as well as the 400-meter intermediate hurdles. Others graduating include throwers Bianca Sanchez and Faith Remias, who is going to Rutgers-Newark to compete there in the fall. Distance runners Stephanie Reveco and Rayanna Lima and thrower Victoria Populim also graduate this year. It’s a shame that the Kearny track and field season didn’t Photo courtesy of Kearny Athletics end the way it could have. “We really would have had Kearny senior Melissa Waters could have been one of Hudson County’s a nice season,” Perez said. premier performers this spring if there was a season, but the coronavirus “It’s sad. But we’ll just have to pandemic put an end to that. prepare for next year. Once we Staten Island in the fall. incredible,” Perez said. “She get the okay to go, we’ll be a “She finished her indoor took such a huge leap. She also full go and adjust from there. season strong and would have showed so much leadership. We hope to be out there in had a great outdoor season,” Having her around mentoring August, but if we’re not, then Perez said. the younger athletes were a we have to have contingency Abigail Rosas is another huge plus.” plans.” senior that leaves the program. Rosas competed in the 400, Just have to wait and see. She heads to East Stroudsburg University in the fall. “Her improvement was

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Wednesday, May 13, 2020

Five Reasons We Turn to Mary in Times of Crisis By Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R. | Archbishop of Newark Earlier this year when the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic became clear, and thousands—then millions—of people throughout the world were effected by physical, spiritual, economic and psychological hardships, including severe sickness and death, I began to implore the Blessed Virgin Mary, Health of the Sick, on a daily basis for her intercession and help. Throughout the ages, Christians have turned to Mary in times of war, pestilence and famine. In troubled times like these, she is a sure refuge, a source of comfort and hope. My religious order, the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (Redemptorists) maintains a particular devotion to Mary under the title Mater de Perpetuo Succursu (Mother of Perpetual Help). As guardians of the 15th century Byzantine icon that bears this holy name, for more than 150 years my community has promoted devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help as a means of helping people in all regions of the world draw closer to Mary, the Mother of God and our mother. Pope Francis has frequently said that his favorite image for the Church is her motherhood. “The Church is feminine,” Pope Francis says. “She is a mother.” Of course, Mary is the model, the inspiration for the Church’s motherhood and for all that is holy, compassionate and loving in the Church’s life and ministry. When Mary’s influence is missing or weak, the Church no longer acts as a loving mother. That’s why we should turn to Mary in both good times and troubled times. As Mother of Perpetual Help, she is always ready to assist us, always there for us, constantly prepared to seek her Son’s guidance and support for all her children. Especially in times of grave danger, such as the current pandemic, Mary offers hope, healing and comfort to all who are in need of her maternal care. As I reflect on our current crisis, and the serious challenges it presents to individuals, families, communities and nations in all regions of the world, I see five major reasons (among many more) why we should turn to Mary our mother for her intercession and help. Here are my five reasons.

1. PEOPLE ARE SICK AND DYING. Throughout the Church’s history, Christians have sought Mary’s intercession in times of serious illness including pestilence and plagues. As a loving mother, Mary always responds with comfort and the healing grace of her Son. Most Holy Mother, Health of the Sick, please stay close to all who are suffering from the effects of this deadly virus. Comfort those who mourn the loss of loved ones. Encourage caregivers, ﬁrst responders and all who provide essential services often at great risk to themselves.

Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us. Teach us to seek and ﬁnd your Son, Jesus, in the prayer and worship of the Church, in the sacraments and in intercessory prayers to you and all the saints. Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, help us to be patient and understanding until the day we can safely reopen our churches and once again make the sacraments available to all.

5. PEOPLE NEED WISE, PRUDENT AND COMPASSIONATE LEADERSHIP—NOW MORE THAN EVER. Mary is the Mother of the Good Shepherd. His teaching

and example powerfully illustrate the meaning and vital importance of servant leadership. We implore the Mother of our Lord to help all our leaders in society and in the Church set aside their personal and political agendas so that they can place the needs of others ﬁrst and foremost.

Mother of Justice and of Mercy, pray for all who are leaders. Inspire us by your obedience to God’s will and your readiness to 2. PEOPLE ARE FRIGHTENED, LONELY AND sacriﬁ ce your own needs and desires for the good of all. Open DEPRESSED. Mary’s loving presence offers courage and hope during frightening times, especially when we are isolated from our minds and hearts to the selﬂess witness given to us by your Son so that we can lead our people with humility, wisdom and family and friends. She reassures us and reminds us that we courage. are never alone, never without the consolation and hope won for us by her Son’s suffering, death and resurrection to new life. In conclusion, I would like to once again make my own Pope Francis’s prayer to Our Lady, Health of the Sick, which uses the Mother of Holy Hope, inspire us by your perseverance and words of an ancient prayer, Sub tuum praesidium, actually the courage. Help us see that we are not going through this time oldest hymn to Mary, the Mother of God, to implore her protecof trial alone. Show us the way to Jesus, and help us to accept tion during the coronavirus epidemic: your loving presence as a sure sign that even in this time of social distancing, your Son holds us in his loving embrace and says to each one of us: “Be not afraid!”

3. PEOPLE ARE OUT OF WORK OR AFRAID THEY WILL LOSE THEIR JOBS. Mary is alternately invoked as Our Lady of Abundance and as Mother of the Poor. She stands with us when the economy is growing and when there is widespread poverty and unemployment. She reminds us to be good stewards of all God’s gifts and to share generously with others, especially the poor.

O Mary, you shine continuously on our journey as a sign of salvation and hope. We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick. At the foot of the Cross you participated in Jesus’ pain, with steadfast faith. You know what we need. We are certain that you will provide, so that, as you did at Cana of Galilee, joy and feasting might return after this moment of trial. Help us, Mother of Divine Love, to conform ourselves to the Father’s will and to do what Jesus tells us: He who took our sufferings upon Himself, and bore our sorrows to bring us, through the Cross, to the joy of the Resurrection. Amen.

Our Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of all the Americas, you We seek refuge under your protection, O Holy Mother of God. Do know the riches and the poverty of the lands we share with not despise our pleas – we who are put to the test – and deliver all our sisters and brothers here. Teach us to be grateful and us from every danger, O glorious and blessed Virgin. Amen. generous stewards. Intercede for all who are poor. Reassure all who are frightened. Help us to help each other so that no one Holy Mary, we entrust to your maternal care the health and has to go without his or her share of God’s abundance. safety of all our brothers and sisters here in the Archdiocese of Newark and throughout the world. Help us to trust in the healing 4. PEOPLE ARE LONGING FOR THE SACRAMENTS, power of your Son and to stay close to one another spiritually ESPECIALLY THE EUCHARIST. Mary shows us the way to even as we are required to maintain a safe distance physically. her Son. She is a sacrament of God’s presence in the world, the Gateway to Grace and a model for the Church’s prayer and worship. Deprived of access to the sacraments, and to liturgy cum populo (with our sisters and brothers), we understandably turn to Mary in the Rosary and other devotional prayers to help ﬁll the spiritual gaps that exist in our lives.

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R. Archbishop of Newark

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

Obituaries loving mother Yolanda and her the Second World War, he served in the South Pacific father Epifano; siblings Olga William J. Spanton, died at Theater in the U.S. Army’s Rincon (David) and Damien home Saturday, April 25, 2020, then newly formed Americal Rincon; cherished fur baby, surrounded by his immediate Division, which earned a citaMaizy; and many cousins, family when he passed. tion for its support of the U.S. aunts and uncles as well as a Born Nov. 24, 1946, in HoboMarine Corps. host of other friends and exken of the late James and EleaAfter the war, he married tended family members. nor Sheehy Spanton, a devout Read more or send a condo- Christine Marrazzo. The couCatholic all of his life, he was lence message to her family at ple settled in North Arlington a graduate of Memorial High and raised three children. A www.mulliganfh.com. School, where as a junior he gifted landscaper with an held the Hudson County High artist’s eye, he co-owned Rovi JAMES V. ROVI School baseball batting title. Landscaping with his brother James A United States Army Anthony. V. Rovi, a veteran, he served his country In the fall and winter, he World War from 1966 to 1968. drove a truck for Petro Oil II veteran He moved his family to Company. who survived Kearny, where he coached He was the 1992 Elk of the the Battle of Little League baseball in the Year, and served the Elks as Guadalcanal Southern Division for 25 trustee, secretary of the board as well as years. He also coached KURC and chairman of numerous malaria, died peacefully in football. events. his sleep at the N.J. Veterans Bill was an avid NY Mets He was predeceased by Home in Paramus on May 4. and NY Giants fan, and he Christine and his second wife, He was 100. was often found at horse race Millie Sacco. The cause of death was tracks with his brother Jimmy, He was the loving father COVID-19. where they owned and raced of daughters Susan Rovi To know him was to love at the Meadowlands, FreeMach (Laurence) and Rosahim. He was loving, sweet, hold, Yonkers and many others lyn McWatters (Kevin) and intelligent, hard-working and locations. daughter-in-law Sue D. Rovi. creative. He was a man of He was a loving and carHe was predeceased by his unquestioned integrity. ing husband, father, pop-pop, Jim was born and educated son, Robert Rovi. He was the uncle and friend who will be loving step-father of Thomas in Newark. His parents, Rodeeply missed Sacco, Vincent Sacco (Marysaria and Joseph Rovi, were He is survived by his wife ann) and Melanie Sacco. He Sicilian immigrants. During Carole, his son William, his daughter-in-law, Michelle, his three grandchildren, Julie, Billy and Breanna, his sister Eileen and her husband Frank, nephews, Donnie and Ryan, niece, Kelly, and friend/famMario Teixeria, IV, Manager, NJ Lic. #3757 ily James Thompson, wife Mario Teixeira, Jr. Director, NJ Lic. #2542 • Monique Teixeira, Director, NJ Lic. #4048 Heather and their son AnNewly renovated family owned and operated funeral home with multiple locations. thony. Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. Handicapped Accessible. He was predeceased by 138 DAVIS AVE. • KEARNY, NJ 07032 brother James and friend/ (201) 991-2265 www.buyusfuneralhome.com family Anthony Evaristo. Because of the circumstances regarding the pandemic, a memorial service and Mass will scheduled in the future.

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CATHERINE RINCON

Catherine Rincon of Harrison died at home Wednesday, May 6, 2020, after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Cathie was a non-smoker. Private funeral services are under the direction of Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Ave., Harrison. A life-long resident of Harrison, Cathie was a true, born and bred Harrisonian. Cathie is survived by her

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Celestina Santa Cruz

also leaves behind six grandchildren plus numerous nieces, nephews and close family friends. Jim was a man of immense compassion. Those wishing to make a donation in Jim’s honor should visit the home page of Feeding America at www.feedingamerica.org.

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

SADIE T. SERGIO

Sadie T. Sergio (nee Randazzo), 99, died May 4, 2020. Born in New London, Connecticut, she was raised and lived in Jersey City before moving to Kearny in 1973. She was a 1938 graduate of Snyder High School in Jersey MICHELLE CLARK City. She later attended St. Michelle Clark of Kearny, Mary’s Hospital Nursing formerly of Harrison, died at School in Passaic and graduClara Maas Medical Center, ated in 1942. Belleville, Monday, May 4, She went on to work for 2020. many years as an operatShe was 59. ing room nurse at St. Mary’s Private funeral services Hospital in Passaic and then at the Veteran’s Administration are under the direction of Hospital in East Orange. Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 She married Mario Sergio Cleveland Ave., Harrison. Predeceased by her husband on June 4, 1960, in Jersey City, Donald and her son, Timothy, and he died in 1977. In 1961, she completed her Michelle is survived by her loving children, Joshua Clark, studies at Seton Hall University, South Orange, graduating Kelly Mooney and Christowith a bachelor’s degree in pher Clark. To send a condolence mesSee OBITS, Page 14 sage to her family, please visit

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Mrs. Celestina Santa Cruz, 88, of Kearny, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, died Saturday, May 2, 2020.

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OBITS

Continued from Page 13 nursing. Later in her career, she worked as a selfemployed private home-care nurse. Sadie was the devoted mother of Ann Marie Meissner and her husband Paul; the cherished grandmother of Angela and Paula Meissner; the dear sister of the late Nancy DeJianne and Sal Randazzo; and the loving aunt of Joseph DeJianne and many other loving nieces and nephews. Private funeral services were handled by the Parow Funeral Home, 185 Ridge Road, North Arlington. Memorial services will take place at a later date.

Donations in Sadie’s memory may be made to Queen of Peace Church, 10 Franklin Place, North Arlington, N.J. 07031.

MARY GARIPPA

Mary Garippa, nee Maio, 94, of Haddonfield, formerly of Kearny, died May 4, 2020. Mary was born in Benevento, Italy, in 1925, before emigrating to the United States in 1935, where she lived in Brooklyn and Kearny before settling in Haddonfield. Mary was the devoted wife of the late Joseph Garippa for 47 years. She was predeceased by her daughter Paula and her two sisters Cesarina Gennace and Angelina Maio. Mary was a loving wife and caring mother. Her talents in baking cooking and enter-

taining were legendary and allowed her to connect with many people throughout her life. She led by example as she maintained her faith through the most challenging times in her life. She always had a moment to talk and advise her family and friends, including the four-legged ones she adored. Mary worked for many years as a teacher’s aide at the Bancroft School, Haddonfield. Mary is loved and remembered by her niece Deborah Lynch, nephew Samuel Gennace, the Garippa Family, the Femino Family, devoted friend Phil Grygo, cherished nieces, nephews, cousins and wonderful friends and neighbors. Interment was private. The Armitage & Wiggins

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Kearny • Carolyn Martins-Reitz •Thomas Martins • Arthur Hackett • Celestina Santa Cruz Nutley/Belleville •Dr. Michael Gerard Giuliano

East Newark •Luz Luna •Julio Luna Lyndhurst •Pat Paolini •Nancy Blair Harrison •Philip Karas

Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand.

If anyone in your family has passed away due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and you’d like them to be remembered in our memorial, please send names to editorial@theobserver.com. They will be included in our list. Please let us know their age and hometown (in our readership area.) And may they and all the faithfully departed rest in God’s peace.

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

Funeral Home, Kearny, was in charge. In lieu of flowers, kindling consider a donation to a charity of your choice in Mary’s name.

ANNA ROSSI

Anna Rossi died May 3, 2020. She was 88. Born in Newark she moved to North Arlington 22 years ago. Private burial arrangements in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, were under the direction of the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Anna had been a supervisor for Verizon in Newark before her retirement. Anna was the last of eight siblings and is survived by many loving nieces and nephews along with their families. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Autism Speaks.

ALICE J. CRIST

Alice J. Crist (nee Hawkins) died April 29, 2020. She was 92. Born in Newark, she was a lifelong Kearny resident. Private arrangements were by the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home in Kearny. Wife of the late Frank Crist, she is survived by her children Janice Ferrara and John Crist. Sister of the late James Hawkins, John Hawkins and Eleanor Brennan, she is also survived by her grandchildren Alexis Paige, Madison Rose and Jonathan Francis.

IRENE KOZIEL

Irene Koziel (nee Howell), 93, of Galloway, formerly of Kearny, died peacefully of natural causes on May 2, 2020, with her daughters by her side. While living in Kearny, Irene had been an active parishioner of St. Cecilia Church, where she was a member of the Cecilian Seniors and had served as treasurer and then President of the group. She had been a longtime resident of Kearny until moving to Galloway Twp. in 2002. Mrs. Koziel had lived at Seashore Gardens Living Center for the past five years, where she always greeted everyone with a smile.

Irene was predeceased by her husband, Stanley, and her siblings, Roberta Kelsch and Henry Howell. Surviving are her children, Helen Koziel Snigier, Stephen Koziel and Mary Koziel; as well as her grandchildren Stephen Snigier, Michelle Snigier Connolly, Laura Koziel Peterson and Stephen Ryan Koziel. She also leaves behind three great-grandchildren, who always made her laugh and put the biggest smile on her face: Abby, Katie and Emily Connolly. Private services were entrusted to the care of the Condon Funeral Home, 684 Kearny Ave., Kearny, www. condonfuneralhome.com. Donations may be made to Seashore Gardens Living Center, 22 West Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway, N.J. 08205.

JOSEPHINE DILORENZO

Josephine DiLorenzo died at Clara Maas Hospital in Belleville on April 30, 2020. She was 91. Josephine was born Oct. 17, 1928 in Formia, Italy. She came to the United States when she was 21 to live with her extended family. She met her husband Giacomo DiLorenzo, through love letters and photographs. They got married both in Italy and at the Nativity Church in Ozone Park, New York, on June 29, 1952. They began their journey together in Brooklyn. Giacomo died in 1976. Josephine continued living in Queens, and finally moved to Kearny, where she lived the rest of her life. Her kindness, love and zest for life was felt by everyone she encountered. She embraced everyone as part of her family and easily became everyone’s “nonna.” Josephine is survived by her loving children John DiLorenzo, Joseph DiLorenzo and Mary Frasca and her son-in-law, John. She was the proud nonna (grandmother) of Angela and Jaclyn. Because of social distancing restrictions during this Coronavirus pandemic, all funeral Continued on next page

Wednesday, May 13, 2020 services will be private. She will be laid to rest in Cypress Hills Cemetery in Brooklyn May 28, 2020.

LORETTA G. PANNULLO

Loretta G. Pannullo died April 27, 2020. She was a resident of the Waterview Nursing Home in Cedar Grove. Her parents were Raphael and Mary Farese. Her husband, Octavius (Sonny) Pannullo predeceased her, as well as her siblings, Antoniette Nardone, Vito Farese and Joseph Farese. Originally from Newark, and late of Belleville, Loretta was very active with the sen-

ior citizens groups and was a hairdresser for many years. She was active with her church groups and served the Lord by serving others. Loretta leaves behind many nieces and nephews and will be remembered by many. Interment was private through SW Brown & Son Funeral Home.

WILLIAM G. LUPKOVICH

William G. Lupkovich of Harrison died Wednesday, April 29, 2020. He was 81. William was born Feb. 16, 1939, to William and Mary Lupkovich of East Newark.

William grew up in East Newark and attended Harrison High School. He served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1956 to 1959. After serving, he worked at Tool Co., for most of his career and then Eagle Affiliates up until his retirement. William is survived by his loving wife of 60 years Maureen “Moe” (Smith) and his devoted children Theresa Lupkovich, Cynthia Lupkovich, William Lupkovich, Michael Lupkovich and John Lupkovich Sr and his wife Lisa Lupkovich. He leaves 12 adoring grandchildren, Jessica Lupkovich (caregiver to

SUICIDE

Continued from Page 1 by how many times he falls, but by how many times he gets back up,’” Appelstein said quoting the 42nd President of the United States. “If I were going to explain myself, I’d just say I am like a weeble. You can keep on popping me and whether it’s genetics or just some aspect of the universe, it gives me the strength. I just have such a celebration of living. I think you can’t go through this long a life span without having some pain or some trauma. And I just felt like, stand up, use the fact that I have the strength to stand up to help others to be able to do the same.” Going back to Drake’s introduction, Appelstein says it helped relax him to share more of his experience dealing with suicide. “It helped us to get into aspects of my son,” he said. “It really stinks to lose your child. But it stinks, squared, when the relationship with your child is so good. My son and I were absolute pals. We rock climbed together, we (went) SCUBA diving together. “We connected as men. He came to me for advice as a teenager asking how to go about interactions as he started to go about the social interactions of being in like, in lust and all that happens when your hormones are raging. You know, puberty and on.”

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Despite this tremendous shared relationship, Appelstein warned that teens won’t always share all of the deepest and darkest secrets in their lives. As strong as their bond was, Jason kept certain parts of his life private. And with that said, Appelstein says he saw no signs — none at all — that led him to believe his son was even considering taking his own life. And in a COVID world, that notion makes it so much harder for all human beings who may one day suffer loss

because of the trauma caused by this pandemic. In Jason’s case, it wasn’t just Appelstein who was shocked by the loss. His two daughters, Jason’s sisters, also had no idea he was suicidal. Appelstein pointed to a pyramid that starts with your best friends. Maybe siblings. Then parents and others. No one in Jason’s pyramid had any idea, in fact. He says the American Society for Suicide Prevention, itself, says suicide reasons are often a mystery because unlike when someone is hurting

William) and her husband Jimmy Bittle, Deanna Lupkovich, William Lupkovich, Alicia Lupkovich, John Michael Lupkovich, Michelle Lupkovich, John Lupkovich Jr., Matthew Lupkovich, Michael Lupkovich, Daniel Lupkovich, Ayvriella Lupkovich and William Lupkovich. He leaves five adoring great-grandchildren, Dashia Lupkovich, Amonique Lupkovich, Kavon Lupkovich, Callen Lupkovich and William Lupkovich Jr. He was pre-deceased by his brother Michael Lupkovich of South Jersey. Due to the current COVID-19 virus restriction on

public gatherings, services will be private for immediate family. Funeral arrangements will be at Mulligan Funeral Home in Harrison. The burial will take place in Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington. A memorial Mass will be celebrated at a later date. To offer online condolences to the family, please visit www.mulliganfh.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a donation to the John Hopkins COVID19 response. More information can be found at www.hopkinsmedicine.org/coronavirus/giving. html.

physically and there’s a sign of injury, with mental illness, there’s still, too often, even as we’ve discussed on the pages of this newspaper, a stigma, “a shame with mental illness,” that is invisible. “And it’s such a shame,” Appelstein said. “I spoke at his funeral how Jason had a village, like Hillary Clinton spoke of, it takes a village. He had a village of people that would have taken bullets for him! If he had just explained to us he was in deep trauma, probably dealing with some bi-polarity, some alcoholism, some drug addiction, getting his girlfriend pregnant for the third time and her not miscarrying and all the other stresses that would have

taken a grown human being to his knees.” So, because of all of this, Appelstein is speaking out to fill in the gaps. He says people will wrongfully think of him and wonder what he’s like behind closed doors having lost a son to suicide. “Don’t jump to the conclusion there’s an alter-ego behind closed doors,” he said. “The reality is what you see is in all likelihood what you get behind closed doors.” There’s not always a failure to connect when someone loses a child to suicide, he says, and there’s not always a way to tell, as was the case with Jason. The stigma, meanwhile, Continued on the next page

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Wednesday, May 13, 2020

bring awareness to suicide) is to say, ‘Hello, hear me roar.’” In other words, the situation is too important to tip-toe around the reality.

they created. And maybe rethink. And that’s the point. The hope is not only to save your life (a person thinking of suicide) but also to vastly improve the quality of life for those left behind.” Because, as he says, it affects the parents, the friends of the parents, the friends, and “it just cascades.” As such, each year, there are up to 60,000 suicides — and that doesn’t count the number of (thankfully) unsuccessful attempts. And, up to 5% of the U.S. population is affected by suicide, a number he says is “too much and mindboggling. “We just have to do a better job.” And if this story, because of Appelstein’s openness and transparency helps to save just one life — and he believes this story will — we’ve all done our jobs.

What would Appelstein say to a reader, right now, thinking of suicide? Appelstein says it’s important to realize the immense damage that is caused for the family members and friends of anyone who takes their own life. “I’ve yet to find somebody who took their own life who did not leave behind a trail of tears,” he said. “Think of this trail of tears and love for this person. If they understood fully … or could look back … and see how the world is, and is changed by the loss of this beautiful human being, they wouldn’t do it. They’d see the damage

Help If you are so inclined, Appelstein suggests supporting the American Society for Suicide Prevention as the best starting point. If you’re thinking of taking your own life as you read this, please visit asfp. org, call (800) 273-8255 or text “talk” to 741741. There are counselors out there 24/7/365 who want to help you to make a different decision.. In fact, you may also reach out to him on Facebook. Search Gerard Appelstein — and he’ll be ready to listen. You may also send him an email directly to g.appelstein@att.net.

Continued from previous page has to be removed. Because in Jason’s case, it was impossible to try to get inside his head. And he urges parents — or anyone dealing with someone who may be sad — to not even try to get inside their heads. “That’s a dangerous place to inhabit,” he said. “You don’t want to go there … and any time there is a stigma, we inhibit growth.” He says he can infer some things Jason may have been feeling. But there’s only so much. “If you’re feeling this much shame and this much belief that ending your life is preferable than living, then you have to have a tremendous amount of shame.” And because of all of this, Appelstein says many of his friends approach him as if he’s “a wounded bird.” “I don’t want to be

‘I loved him as much as I could. And I wish I could have saved him. I will always feel a sense of loss and grieve the loss, but I don’t feel like this was my deal. If anything, it’s made me — Gerald a better human being.’ Appelstein treated like that because I didn’t die and I don’t d feel a responsibility for his death. I loved him as much as I could. And I wish I could have saved him. I will

always feel a sense of loss and grieve the loss, but I don’t feel like this was my deal. If anything, it’s made me a better human being. And this whole effort (to

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EASTWICK

Continued from Page 1 employees being burnt out. We hear about the possibility of a mass exodus of employees once this pandemic begins to settle. So what happens when these positions open up? What happens when the students who are waiting in the wings for these jobs — and who are educated at Eastwick College — can’t get their licenses because for the past two-plus months, they’ve learned their theory in online environments, but who have missed hundreds of hours of in-person, hands-on, laboratory training? We spoke with Thomas Eastwick, seen in photo at right, the founder and president of Eastwick College. He says he’s been kept in absolute limbo by the State of New Jersey as to what the next step might be and/or when his students will be able to get back into these labs to get the required hours needed for licensure. We spoke with Eastwick just a few days ago, on the phone, on Friday, May 8. “The labs are closed,” Eastwick said. “We’ve asked that we be able to open up the labs, with five students at most in the lab, but so far, it’s not been approved.” Those labs, shut down for nearly three months now, include post-secondary students studying fields like diagnostic cardiovascular sonography, ultrasound technology, mortuary sciences, OB/GYN diagnostic medical sonography, medical billing, occupational therapy assistantships and licensed-practical nursing among countless other fields, many of which are in medicine. Eastwick says there is no way to grant a license to, say, someone studying ultrasound technology, because students are well below the 960 hours required to get one. With no information about when he might be able to gradually re-open the college,

The Observer | www.theobserver.com Eastwick says he’s frustrated — his students are, too — and he hopes Gov. Philip D. Murphy begins to look at a school like his as he does businesses with Eastwick being “essential.” “We’re different. We’re not like a Yale University,” Eastwick said. “Campuses need to be treated the way businesses have been.” And, as of now, Eastwick says that’s not happening. In some cases, where a trade is involved, Eastwick says those students aren’t learning new things at all since they’re taught, 100%, hands-on. Because of this plight of frustration for Eastwick, we contacted the Office of the Governor. We asked what the state was doing — or planning to do — for schools like Eastwick that need the in-person training. What we learned was quite surprising. According to Nicole Kirgan, a spokeswoman for the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education for the State of New Jersey, the state made an announcement on March 17 that allowed all post-secondary schools to apply for exemptions to the closure of all schools statewide. The announcement was supposedly sent to all institutions of higher learning. “Institutions can apply for a waiver through the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE) to allow in-person instruction on a case-by-case basis where a compelling rationale exists,” Kirgan said. “More information on our waiver process can be found at nj.gov/highereducation/documents/pdf/ index/OSHE_Waiver%20 Process_3.17.20.pdf. “OSHE has fielded several of these waiver requests, and our office is available to work with institutions experiencing extenuating circumstances. “ .. OSHE also issued guidance about how institutions can continue instruction during the pandemic … It states that for lab work, institutions should consider vir-

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noting that Eastwick is preparing to submit its request for a waiver Monday, May 11, seven full weeks after the concept was announced. Eastwick says it would be great even if he’s allowed to have minimal students to get back into labs, so they can get caught up in time for graduation. He estimates that alone, at his Ramsey campus in upper Bergen County, there are 800 students who are losing out on hands-on training. If the waiver isn’t approved, there will be scores of students for whom he won’t be able to get jobs. And job placement is an essential component of an Eastwick education. “We’re very concerned for the soon-to-be graduates,” Eastwick said. He says he’s been working 10 hours a day, trying his best to get answers. And, like us, he’s concerned that there is going to be a large turnover from the stress and strain caused by working in healthcare settings during the worst

tual methods of instruction, including but not limited to virtual simulation activities. Institutions should postpone lab work or clinical activities if a safe, appropriate educational alternative cannot be implemented and ensure that students are not penalized for the delay.” All of this said, in a follow-up call with Eastwick, he says he only learned about the exemption late last week, nearly two months after the exemption was announced by the state. “From what we understand, they usually reject the initial request and then we have to go back with more,” he said,

pandemic in modern times. “We’ve been patient and things have changed drastically,” Eastwick said. “It’s not just us — it’s happening in K-12, colleges and universities, graduate schools. Everyone is facing a totally different world.” And while it may take a while before the day comes when a class of, say, 30 students is a possibility, he hopes the day does come again. “We’ll get there but there will have to be a full, mandatory vaccine,” he said. “It will be a must that everyone gets the vaccine. No exemptions.” Still, none of this matters if the current students can’t get their licenses. Maybe we’ll know, soon. And if and when we do, we’ll let you know, too. Aside from its local campus in Nutley, Eastwick College, established in 1985, also educates students in Ramsey, Hackensack and Paterson. Its total enrollment is approximately 2,500. Visit www. eastwick.edu.

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WWW.THEOBSERVER.COM | THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2018

Observer Classifieds

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

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HARRISON 1 room. $450/month, everything included TV, cable & internet. (973) 525-3860

49WO7

KEARNY Manor section, two blocks to NYC buses and shuttles, 2nd floor. KEARNY Being renovated to the Newly renovated, hardwood floors. Laundry best standards. 2 BR. 1 onsite. HT/HW included. Bath. EIK. LR. $1900 + 2 BR start at $1,375 1 BR 1-month security. HT and start at $1,200 HW included. Pets TBD. Jr. BR start at $ 1,150 Hookups for W. D. Avail(201) 289-7096 able 06/01 (516) 50649W12 8138 01W03

52W03

HARRISON Small room for single person. $350/ mth Male preferred (570)656-5850 Please leave text message 52W03

DO IT ALL

Interior/Exterior new & repairs. All types of carpentry. Reasonable rates, quality work, reliable, experienced.

The Observer is not N.ARLINGTON responsible Brand new luxury for apartments. 1 BR’s availtypographical able some with Den/Office options. errors. Credit for errors Modern Kitchens. will not be granted Parking for 1 car per unit. after the next week’s JOSEPH V. FERRIERO Laundry on premises. No pets. Close to Plumbing & Heating publication. transportation. Kitchen and bath $10 for Call for further details! remodeling. Carpentry. minimal changes. (201)997-2341 Hot Water Heaters.

51W03

HARRISON 1st FL. 3 BR’S w/front & back entrance. 1 Bath, LR & Kitchen , Access to Backyard w/deck. $2,000 + 1.5 Months Security. No smoking/ pets, utilities not included. 10 mins from PATH. Available June 1st call or text (973)454-3281 52W03

HARRISON

HANDYMAN SERVICES

N.NEWARK Goverment SECTION 8 preferred, 1 BR,1st fl. Near all Transportation and Buses. Completely renovated. Call 973-202-8580. 51W03

www.theobserver.com

3 weeks for $174.00 (201)991-1600 Exp. 6/01/20

A-1 AFFORDABLE RUBBISH REMOVAL

Attics, Basements, Yard Cleaning. We Haul or You Can Rent 10-15 Cubic Yard Containers. We Accept Visa/MasterCard

(201) 998-1262 01W06

To place an ad, e-mail classified@theobserver.com or call us at 201-991-1600

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

Classified deadline MONDAY 2PM

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

WWW.THEOBSERVER.COM | THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2018

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

Observer Classifieds

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN

HOME IMPROVEMENT

G&R BUILDERS Roofing,

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

FREE ESTIMATES 20% Senior Citizen Discounts

(201) 893-0656 Lic. #13VH02536200 49W06

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

COPACABANA LANDSCAPING

05W52

FENIELLO CONTRACTING LLC. BASEMENT RENOVATIONS NO MORE WASTED SPACE. Baths, Kitchens, Decks Painting. All types of Home Improvement. Quality work. Fair prices Fully insured. Lic# 13vh03006100

(201) 906-2422 52W06

VISA/MC Accepted

Call Eder (201) 997-9271 www.copacabanalandscaping.com

Responsibilities include servicing existing accounts, calling inactive accounts, generating new business and growing territories & building new leads. Background check. Send resumes with a cover letter of introduction to jobs@theobserver. com

43W39

Jean’s Lawn Hedges & Tree Trimming Neat and clean We Haul trash away! Best Prices Senior Discounts (201)565-6393

Mario Esposito’s Landscaping LLC

52W06

51W04

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

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

PAINTERS Kevin’s Affordable Painting Sheetrocking, Plastering, Floors, Doors and more. Very neat and clean. You will be happy with our service and prices. Refrences available Senior Discounts Call for the best price (201) 565-6393.

LOOKING FOR A SALES EXECUTIVE TO JOIN OUR TEAM

*Lawn Maintenance *Spring Clean-up *Top Soil & Mulch*CUSTOM DESIGN Free Estimates & Fully Ins.

•Clean-up •Lawn Maintenance •Top soil •Mulch •Spring Clean up Free Estimate (201) 438-3991

LACA CORP

Paint * Powerwash* and More •Interior • Exterior •Free Estimates•Fully Insured 973-759-8869 973-930-5002

New + Re-roofing • Flat roofing • Siding • Gutters

(973) 343-1167 (201) 528-8350 (800)322-1019

erickconstructionnj.com Free estimates - Fully insured Lic#13VH04302300 07W54

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

CHILDCARE

$$Now Hiring$$

Early morning pick up 5:30AM or drop off at your house. Must bring kids to Nutley Washington school at 8 am. Nutley residents preferred. To set up Video interview

VIDEO INTERVIEWS

2 boys 4 & 5

Sales, Property Inspectors FT/PT in your area. Free Training provided. msangelabove@ comcast.net

Call Steve 201-341-7825

(732) 766-4425

01W03

49W06

ask for Mel.

SELECTOR-IMMEDIATE HIRE-FOOD DISTRIBUTION WAREHOUSE Forem Facility • Must be able to lift 100lbs ( average boxes weight 50 to 80 pounds) • Must be able to lift and stack boxes above shoulder height • Must be able to work in a cold environment • Must be able to stand long hours • Must be able to learn to operate a pallet jack/hi-lo • Constant bending, lifting, twisting while lifting COME IN FOR AN OPEN INTERVIEW TUESDAY 8:00am to 11:00am and 1pm to 3pm!!!!, WEDNESDAY 8:30am to 11:00am !!!! Forem Facility Management 2-44 Cornelia St (entrance on Euclid Ave) Newark NJ 07105 (you will see shoprite trucks in the lot) 01W04

52W06

CLASS ACT PAINTING *Interior * Exterior * Powerwashing * Sheetrock * Tile Fully Insured 201-988-2741

email: classactpainting@comcast.net 01W06

Andreas Painting

Professional House Painter 165. Interior & Exterior Printing Plastering -Taping Free Estimates

(201) 997-0706 51W06

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

RECEPTIONIST (Full time) needed for a medical office in Kearny. Some experience necessary. Please email resumes to premiercare@gmail.com

MEDICAL ASSISTANT (Full time) for a medical office in Kearny. Certification and experience necessary. Please email resumes to premiercare@gmail.com

01W03

SERVICES OFFERED NEED A MATH TUTOR?

• Concrete • Brick work • Steps • Stone Walls • Tiles • Painting • Sheetrock • Drywall • Plastering ALL types of Masonry Free Estimates

Parents with your children home. If you need help I can facetime from the comfort of your home

48W06

01W06

(973) 943-2254

• Summer Math Packets • Precalculus • Algebra l • Algebra ll • Calculus • Geometry

Think you can’t refinance because values are down?

RATES AT HISTORIC LOWS!

THINK AGAIN!

Analysis for Purchase & Refinance!

NORTH ARLINGTON • NJ 07031

FREE

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

TEL: 201.998.9050 • FAX: 201.820.0505

www.TheObserver.com

. E M I T It’s TAX ednesday, W s i y a D x a T

July 15th.

Nicholas J. Coco Certified Public Accountant “Serving financial needs of small business and individuals since 1998”

Tax Preparation • Financial Planning Budgeting • Bookkeeping

752 Kearny Ave., Kearny NJ (Corner of Stuyvesant Ave.)

Office: 201-955-3100 Fax: 201-955-3339 Email: ncoco@bellatlantic.net

VISTA SERVICES GROUP, LLC • Income Tax • Personal • Business Please come in for a FREE review of your prior return and projection of the new tax law.

20 YEARS EXPERIENCE! Jose Fernandez | Sandra Castro

Degree in Mathematics & Education

201-340-4376

ALL LEVELS OF MATH

290 Stuyvesant Ave • Lyndhurst, NJ

Nikki 201-889-0757 or nikkihelenesam@gmail.com

elp.

oh we’re here t

Interested in advertising your ﬁnancial services? Call 201.991.1600.

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES Dr. Prakash J. Doshi

of West Hudson

To Aid and Support our Community

Dr. Hector Aguilar

in the ﬁght against the COVID-19 pandemic, we are now offering the following services (for both insured and uninsured individuals):

• Drive-thru COVID-19 Throat Swab Testing • COVID-19 Antibody Blood Test Both tests are simple and return results with a short turn around time. Results will be also be available on the patient portal.

We are seeing patients from toddlers to adults. Walk-In Appointments Available • For All Minor Medical Urgencies Preventive and Primary Medical Care • Most Major Insurances Accepted

Please call us to learn more.

TEL: (201) 998-7474 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B. | Kearny, NJ