The Observer e-Newspaper for 9 September 2020 by The Observer Newspaper

Wednesday, 9 September 2020

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Vol. CXXXIII, No. 18

MORE ON THE INSIDE Check out our pullout guide for out the best outdoor dining & entertainment See Pages 10-11

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

DID WE FORGET?

19 years after attacks, couldn’t our nation use the patriotism that followed fateful day? By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

hen authorities in New York City announced they would cancel their remembrance ceremony marking the 19th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, North Arlington Mayor Daniel H. Pronti, a retired police officer, was quite upset. Of course, New York properly decided not to cancel the ceremonies after all. But after he first got word of the cancelation, the mayor floated the idea of having a ceremony in North Arlington. The same people who told him to have a ceremony in lieu of New York City’s also encouraged him to have the ceremony even if there would be one at the World Trade Center. So on Friday, Sept. 11, 2020, North Arlington will have its own ceremony at Zadroga Field, Schuyler Avenue, from 6 to 8 p.m. “We have a better view, there, of Manhattan than Manhattan has of Manhattan,” the mayor said. “So we’re going to go ahead with the event to mark the 19th anniversary of the attacks. We want it to be memorable.” See 9/11, Page 16

MY2020CENSUS.GOV Hudson County received a grant from the Dept. of State Complete Count Commission.

2020 CENSUS

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Wednesday, September 9, 2020

55 YEARS AGO, 3 KHS BOYS By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

here’s now a full generation of Kearny residents who never knew our town once had train service connecting Kearny to

Hoboken and beyond. And it is very likely there are few who remain who remember that that rail service — Erie Lackawanna back in the day, it eventually evolved into NJ Transit — was responsible for one of the greatest tragedies the town ever saw. (See

Observer from Sept. 9, 1965). It was a crisp Wednesday morning, Sept. 8, 1965. The new year at Kearny High School was about to kick off. No doubt, there was a freshness in the air that day — a day for new beginnings, for fresh starts everyone. All

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students were on an equal playing field. Everyone was to begin the school year with a tabula rasa — a fresh slate — with so much opportunity lying ahead. But for three young Kearny men — two would-be juniors and one would-be sophomore — that newness, that excitement that a new school year brings, all came a tragic and permanent end when as they were crossing the tracks by what was the Elm Street Depot (Garafola Place, it’s called now) they were struck and killed by a fast-moving train, their lives taken away in an instant after all three were thrown at least 100 feet in the air. They never stood a chance, their friends, police and other eyewitnesses said at the time. The train engineer spotted them when they were a mere 15 feet away — but it took another 400 feet before the westbound express from Hoboken finally came to a complete halt, emergency brakes engaged and all. Some say it took even longer, and it was between Argyle Place and Kearny Avenue where the train came to rest. The boys’ names remain, unfortunately, forgotten by many, but also synonymous with Kearny and tragedy. They were all friends. Robert Floyd, one of the

victims, was 16 that fateful day and he and his family lived at 19 Howell Place, Kearny. He was to be a KHS junior. He would have been 71 today. Rodney Murdock, another victim, was also 16 that day — and he and his family lived at 14 Schuyler Court, Kearny. He, like Floyd, was entering his first day as a high school junior. He, too, would have been 71 today. And Richard Collins, the youngest of the victims, was just 15 at the time of the tragedy. He and his family lived on Forest Street, Kearny. He was heading to school to begin his sophomore year. He would have been 70 today. Floyd, Murdoch and Collins were with several other friends that day — and they were all walking to school together. Those other boys in the walking party were fortunate — they were far enough away and weren’t attempting to cross the tracks at that fateful moment. But they all looked on in absolute disbelief and witnessed what happened to their friends. They saw the horror, the ensuing carnage. How they ever moved on from what they witnessed can’t even be imagined. We first learned of the Continued on the next page

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

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KILLED BY TRAIN NEAR ELM Continued from previous page tragedy from Kearny’s own Lewis Battista. Battista says he doesn’t recall what he had for lunch the day prior, but this day, Sept. 8, 1965, is one that has remained with him for the last 55 years, even though he was several years younger than the victims. “I did not know any of the three boys or any of the other boys they were walking with that were listed in the article,” Battista says. “All the boys were either two or three years older than me. I was going into eighth-grade (at Lincoln School) that day and was the KHS Class of 1970, which was 50 years ago this June. Also, all the boys went to Schuyler School, I went to Roosevelt. Our paths would not have crossed until KHS.” Battista recalls how the mood in town became very somber after folks learned of the tragedy. And based on news accounts from this newspaper — and the New York Daily News — the tragedy was also reported on AM radio, perhaps 1010 WINS or WCBS 880 — though neither was all news at the time as

they are now. “The entire Town of Kearny was devastated. Even if you did not know the boys, you knew someone who was connected to at least one of the families,” Battista says. “My dad knew one of the families. I remember one of the boys was related (think it was his step-father) to a Kearny DPW employee and in 1965, the DPW garage was located on Devon Street between Midland Avenue and the railroad tracks, one block from the tragedy. The wakes for the boys were in three different funeral homes in Kearny. That was the first time I saw lines outside the funeral homes as people and friends went from one location to another to pay their respects.” After the tragedy struck, Battista recalls the mayor taking action to ensure there would or couldn’t be a repeat. At least initially. “The mayor (Joseph M. Healey at the time) ordered the Kearny Police Department to post a crossing guard in the morning at Forest, Elm and Devon streets to order the children to stand behind the down gates and to

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stop any children from crossing until all trains had completely passed and the gates were in the up position,” he says. “The guards remained at those locations for a number of years. Of course, our first assembly of the new school year, especially at Lincoln School, we were all reminded about train-crossing safety.” Sept. 8, 1965 “It was my first day of eighth-grade and I was going to the new Beech Street entrance of Lincoln School. The Beech Street entrance was

new because that part of Lincoln School had only been completed in early June 1965,” Battista says. “The Kearny Avenue part of the school was still under construction. That morning, I was walking south on Kearny Avenue, and as I crossed Columbia Avenue, I noticed a group of people, students and adults standing on the east side of the train bridge looking toward New York City. “When I got to center span of the bridge and looked down at the tracks, I noticed

an Erie Lackawanna engine and two passenger cars stopped below me just before the train reached the bridge. I also noticed a very large crowd of people had gathered at Elm Street. Someone said that someone had been struck by the train below. “Not sure what was going on, I continued toward Midland Avenue. At Midland, I made a left turn and as I walked past the Midland Avenue Fire House, a few See TRAIN, Page 12

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IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION Business Directory...............................................................Page 5

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

Opinion..................................................................................Page 6

Health & Wellness Directory..................................................Page 14

Sports....................................................................................Page 7

Classifieds ........................................................................ Pages 17-18

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Wednesday, September 9, 2020

A Q&A with Empire Medical’s Founder

for many years to come. safe environment. These site. Healthcare, of course, had changes will be with us for DOC: As I mentioned, to adapt quickly and utilize years to come. we are a multi-specialty Empire Medical Group, a wide variety of methods My opinion is that group with multiple office Belleville, will soon have a and innovations to serve our COVID-19 is here to stay for locations. Belleville will new location. So as a way communities. many years. At best, it may soon become our flagship to introduce them to you, Thankfully, at Riverside evolve to a flu-like virus for location and there will be The Observer had a recent Medical Group and Empire, which one would need a room for expansion. In Q &A with its founder and we are proud to say that we vaccine once or twice a year. addition to Belleville, we executive director. have served our patients There are reports of a new, currently see patients in The Observer (TO): very well due to the many less deadly version of the Maplewood, Springfield The first place to start resources available to us. virus evolving. They key for and West Orange. We have is with COVID. Dr. Most of our offices have fighting this virus, like any primary-care providers and Moaven, you’ve been a stayed open while observing disease, is prevention. At many specialists who will doctor for 25+ years. Can all rules and regulations to present, social distancing, offer their services on site if you describe how the keep our staff and patients wearing a mask and necessary. first quarter century of safe. washing hands are the Our specialties include your practice changed We have been serving our prime preventive measures. Internal Medicine, Michelle advertising@theobserver.com 201-991-1600 six months ago with the patients via telemedicine, Hopefully, soon, we will Cardiology, Dermatology, Newspaper: Client: Medicine, onset of COVID and how urgent care centers and have a vaccine available for Pulmonary/Sleep you suspect it might be several command centers public use. Ear Nose & Throat, different in the coming for COVID-19 evaluation TO: Let’s look at the Endocrinology, Hematology/ years. and testing. Since May, practice in general — tell Oncology, Gastroenterology, Dr. Moaven (DOC): we have organized and readers why coming to Neurology, Nutrition/ Thank you very much for equipped our offices to your new location is a Weight Management, giving me the opportunity serve our patients in a good idea? Let them know Allergy Testing & about all the specialists Treatment, Treatment Advertising: Here is the updated template with a new photo of Jarlynn Hyd you’ve got on-site — and of Vein Disorders and how it would be easier to Infectious Disease. The have one location to visit overall concept is a “one We are proud to have been able to serve the Township of Belleville and its surrounding communities for the past several years. rather than having to be It is our pleasure to introduce the new home of Riverside Medical Group’s Empire Division at 195 Cortlandt Street in Belleville. referred to specialists off Continued on the next page

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

to participate in this interview. My name is Nader Moaven. I am the Founder and Executive Director of Empire Medical which proudly joined Riverside Medical Group, part of OptumCare. We are a multi-specialty medical group which emphasizes “compassionate comprehensive care.” Our patients are truly our priority. In addition to my administrative responsibilities, I am also a practitioner in the fields of Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease. Soon after we joined forces with Riverside Medical Group, the COVID-19 pandemic started. It truly changed our lives and its effect will be felt

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Wednesday, September 9, 2020 Continued from previous page stop shop” which delivers the highest quality care by the highest quality providers in a friendly, compassionate environment. TO: What kinds of insurance do you accept? DOC: We are in network with most major medical insurance including Medicare and Medicaid. We also handle the following types of visits: Workers’ Compensation Claims, Personal Injury Claims, State of New Jersey Department of Transportation Physicals (NJDOT) and DOT/CDL Physicals. For more information and to book an appointment, I encourage your readers to visit our website at www.myempiremedical.com. TO: Back to COVID, in your professional career as a medical doctor, is there anything comparable to this? DOC: The world has been through many disasters and pandemics. Regarding the impact on human life and the economy, the closest event to COVID-19 was the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918-1920. In the early 1990s, which coincided with my training as a resident and then as an infectious disease fellow, many hospital beds were filled with very ill HIV/AIDS patients. Sadly, many of these patients lost their lives since we did not have effective treatments that were readily available. Thankfully, HIV has now evolved to a chronic, treatable disease. TO: Do you expect there will be another large wave of cases of COVID-19 in the fall and winter? Should parents of children be especially concerned with schools reopening? DOC: I do think there will be a second wave of COVID-19, which will coincide with the ongoing reopening of retail establishments, the tourism industry and schools. COVID-19 is a virus that transmits easily. Even if the majority of the population practices effective social distancing measures, in my view, it is inevitable that there will be a spike in COVID-19 cases in the fall and winter. Unfortunately, the timing of this spike will overlap with flu season. As I mentioned earlier, hopefully soon we will have a COVID-19 vaccine available for public use. I strongly recommend that children of all ages receive their flu vaccines this fall. TO: Do you prescribe hydroxycholoriquine to COVID patients? Some say it’s a lifesaver. Others say it has no decent effect on the virus. What is your view? Same

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Your local news source for over question of Remdesivir. DOC: We do not prescribe hydroxycholoriquine to COVID patients. My personal view is that I cannot prescribe a drug that has not shown promise in a large and diverse patient population. Regarding Remdesivir, a recent study in the May 2020 edition of The New England Journal of Medicine showed that “Remdesivir was superior to placebo in shortening the time to recovery in adults hospitalized with COVID-19 and evidence of lower respiratory tract infection.” TO: Lastly, what else would you like readers to know about the Empire Medical Group? Anything that sets you apart from the competition? DOC: First, I would like to mention that I am very proud of our medical providers and staff who have tirelessly worked to serve our patients and communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our people truly set us apart from the competition. Many of our providers have risked their personal health and their families’ health during the past six months. Many of them have worked long hours during the week and on weekends. We are all in this together. On behalf of myself, Riverside Medical Group and OptumCare, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my colleagues and to everyone in the healthcare field. It is an honor and a privilege to practice medicine with all of you. Second, we have the benefit of being supported by Riverside Medical Group and OptumCare. This ensures that we have access to the best medication, medical equipment, technology, and the most knowledgeable and dedicated providers. Lastly, I’d like to point out that Empire Medical is affiliated with Clara Maass Medical Center, which was highlighted in the Aug. 26 edition of The Observer as a High Performing Hospital for 2020-21 by U.S. News & World Report.

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Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Thoughts & Views EDITORIAL

We could use a rekindling of the spirit that followed 9/11

ept. 11, 2001 — in two days, it will have been 19 years in the past. It’s unfathomable to imagine that, really, because for so many, that day’s memories seem like they were a week ago. Nineteen years ago, our world changed, some for the better, some not for the better. But if there was one thing that came out of that unspeakable horror, it was the way this country united. For months, there were no Republicans. No Democrats. We were just Americans, united in ways probably not seen since World War II — and in ways we have not seen since. Remember it? Remember how calm it was on the area’s roads and how people were kind to each other? Remember that shop at the foot of Schuyler Avenue that sold American Flags and that couldn’t keep up with the demand for more? Remember how those flags seemed to be on every home, business and vehicle? Remember how much we cared for each other without regard to anything but being American? All these years later, with so much vitriol in this country, whether it’s in Washington, D.C., Minnesota, Wisconsin, Oregon, or at the Statehouse or in our own neighborhoods, couldn’t we use that kind of care and kindness we had for each other right about now? Wouldn’t it just be nice even if it lasted for a few days? Nearly two decades after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, maybe we could all take a moment or two to step back by calling to mind what our world was like that year in September, October, November. If we could just rekindle that spirit, is there any doubt our world would be a better place right now?

Writer: The Dems have simply lost me To the Editor: I love America. I love the Constitution and I am a person who follows political news closely. I was raised a Democrat who descended from Irish Democrats from Jersey City. There was no option. There was no debate growing up in my mother’s household. If a person was running for office, we had one choice. We were not wealthy so we voted for the Democrats. They protect us. They look out for the poor, the meek, the working man. A lot has changed. The Democrats of today are not like John F. Kennedy(the patron saint of Irish politicians). They are the party that shipped all of our working class jobs overseas or south of the border. They struck bad trade deals with China and bad trade deals with Mexico. They put Americans out of work. They closed factories. They shut down coal, oil and natural gas plants(mostly union jobs). For what? They surely wouldn’t jeapordize the base that supports them, would they? Then why? This started during the Clinton years. I’m not a scholar, nor do I pretend to be one. But the Democrats have sold us union working men and women out for years (yet, unions still support them). Fast forward to President Donald J. Trump. He is outspoken, as real as they come, to the point, person. He has character flaws like all of us. He does not hide them, he makes no apologies. He is not a politician. That alone scores points with me. He isn’t trying to become rich living off the

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR system like so many career politicians. He may be crass. He is not “presidential” in many respects. But, I ask you, is he not real? He is. He is genuine and he has kept his promises. He sides with America on all positions. What’s wrong with that? Trump wasn’t supposed to win. He is trying to make America better for all — Black, white, whomever. Yes, he is a billionaire but has any politician in modern history ever kept as many promises as him? Look it up. The answer is no. I came to this reality in 2016 when faced with Hillary Clinton. I’m sorry mom, but I can’t vote that way anymore. Your party has changed. They haven’t gotten better. They don’t protect the working, union man. They don’t care about police. They don’t care about the little guy. They are preoccupied with getting rich like the rest of the lot in Washington and caving to the radical left. Both Republicans and Democrats will say anything to be elected. They are part of the problem. Trump is not. Finally, I say this. Don’t follow the media. Don’t follow the rhetoric on either side. Don’t follow anyone. Look at the facts. Look at your future. Look at our country’s future. Look for your children’s and grandchildren’s future. Greg Benarick, Lyndhurst

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Wednesday, September 9, 2020

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Sports & Recreation WITH

Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

Seaver’s passing brings back hundreds of memories There are very few people that can transcend a man’s life from childhood through adolescence and into manhood. Of course, there are parents and loved ones. For certain, there are friends and acquaintances. But outside of the regular family regimen and assorted influential individuals, there aren’t many that can have such an impact on one’s life spanning the decades. It’s very rare when someone you know only from afar can have such a place of importance. For me, that person was George Thomas Seaver, known to most as simply Tom, but in the New York area, he was also known by the nicknames of “The Franchise” and “Tom Terrific.” Tom Seaver was always larger than life in my existence, held at such a higher echelon than anyone else. Sure, there was idol worship for athletes like Johnny Unitas and Walt Frazier, but there was no one more vital to my growing up than Seaver, who died last Sunday on his vineyard in northern California at the age of 75 after a battle with dementia, more than likely brought on by Lyme disease. When I was first intro-

duced to the game of baseball as a little boy in 1965, my father took me to my first game at Shea Stadium on Aug. 26, 1965, where I was absolutely mesmerized by the greenest of green grass on the field and the brightest of white lights atop the roof. Of course, I fell madly in love right away with the Mets, especially since they somehow managed to beat Sandy Koufax in the first game I ever attended. My father reminded me all the way to Shea that I was seeing the best pitcher he ever saw in Koufax that night and yet the sad sack Mets performed their first miracle by beating Koufax for the first time ever after 13 straight losses by a 5-2 score. After that game, I was hooked for life. I bled orange and blue – even though I came from a family of Yankee fans, including my beloved father. A year later, the Mets had their second miracle, when they won a special lottery with the Atlanta Braves to acquire the rights to a right-handed flamethrower from Fresno, California named George Thomas Seaver. No one knew at the time how good Seaver would See VIEW, Page 8

Nutley grid squads, girls’ soccer team aid food drive More than 4,000 items collected for Nutley Family Service

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com Nutley High School head football coach Steve DiGregorio is getting ready to lead the Maroon Raiders back onto the Nutley Oval for the first official day of practice next week in preparation for the upcoming season that is slated to kick off the weekend of Oct. 2. It will be a momentous campaign for DiGregorio, who will return to fulltime coaching duty after a miraculous recovery from pancreatic cancer surgery in July of 2019. But before DiGregorio calls the shots for the Maroon Raiders on the sidelines, he helped once again to assist the Nutley Family Service Bureau’s highly successful food drive last week at the Shop Rite on Franklin Ave. “I was asked by a member of the Nutley Rotary to see if we could help,” DiGregorio said. “It came out of need. The Nutley food pantry was in need for donations. They were getting kind of low.” So on August 29, the Nutley football team and the Nutley girls’ soccer team joined forces to help collect an astounding 4,000 items. Mike Padilla, a Nutley police officer and a member of DiGregorio’s coaching staff, helped to organize the event along with DiGregorio and J.D. Vick, another assistant coach. Mike DiPiano, who does a little bit of everything involved with Nutley athletics, got his girls’ soccer team to participate. Nutley Mayor Mauro Tucci and Councilmen Al-

Photos courtesy of Steve DiGregorio

The Nutley High School football team, led by head coach Steve DiGregorio (far left), helped to chip in at the Nutley Family Service Bureau’s food drive last weekend at the Nutley Shop Rite on Franklin Avenue. BOTTOM: The Nutley High School football team organizes the more than 4,000 items collected at the annual Food Drive for the Nutley Family Service Bureau last week.

phonse Petracco and Joseph Scarpelli helped to promote the event and gave donations. Ken Tice, who was a classmate and teammate of DiGregorio at Nutley High, worked with Shop Rite to coordinate the event. Resident volunteers Barbara Hirsch and Dorothy Huey were also huge in assisting the event. DiGregorio said that he had approached his team, asking for volunteers for the food drive. “The kids did a heck of a job,” said DiGregorio, who

has declared himself fit and healthy for the upcoming season after his scary cancer surgery. “When the Rotary asked if we could lend a hand, it was an easy thing to approach the kids. We had about 40 kids volunteer. They first handed out fliers, explaining what they were doing and the items that they needed. They asked people to purchase the items in the store, then drop off the items on the way out.” Needless to say, the reSee FOOD DRIVE, Page 14

The Observer | www.theobserver.com team effort.” Jake Walsh is a senior on the Maroon Raiders’ football squad who was one of the volunteers. “Coach D mentioned to a bunch of us that the food pantry was running a little low,” Walsh said. “We all thought it was a great opportunity to get the team together before the start of the season and help out. Everyone loved it.” Walsh said that the donations just kept coming in all afternoon. “It was amazing,” Walsh said. “Being able to give back to those who don’t have much really means a lot to us. It’s a perfect way for us to help the community. We live in a great community that is always very support-

ive to us. For all the community does for our football team, this was a great way to give back. When you have an event like this, you have to feel good to give back.” Fellow senior Billy Searle was willing to do anything for DiGregorio. “Coach D is a great guy both on and off the field,” Searle said. “When he asked us, of course, we were ready, especially in times like these. We all knew we had to help people in need. It was a good turnout from our team and from the people in town.” Searle said that he was pleased with the way everyone supported the drive. “I can’t say I was shocked, because the people in Nutley are always so good,” Searle

said. “I knew our community would pull through. But I was impressed with the way the people of Nutley helped out. Whenever you can do something good for someone else, it’s a good feeling. We’re not all about football. I can speak for the other teams in the school who also want to help. It makes you feel good.” The Maroon Raiders are scheduled to take on Newark West Side in Newark Oct. 2. They play their first home game a week later against West Essex. Walsh said that he cannot wait to get back on the playing field. “Oh, my God, you have no idea how much I want to get out there with the other guys,” Walsh said. “I think

we’re more pumped up that ever before.” Searle agreed. “I’ve been waiting for this since March,” Searle said. “I cleaned out my garage and turned it into a weight room. It’s been non-stop working out since. I’m more ready than ever before. I can’t explain how excited I am.” DiGregorio was proud of the way his players handled themselves. “It just reaffirmed my belief in these guys,” DiGregorio said. “I told the kids that I was very proud of them and that they should be very proud of themselves for their efforts. They made the commitment. Helping those in need is part of Nutley’s makeup and nothing will ever change that.”

Everyone knew at the time that Seaver represented hope. You knew that every fifth day, Seaver took the mound and gave the lowly Mets a fighting chance to win. That never happened before. In 1968, the Mets added fellow pitchers Jerry Koosman and Nolan Ryan and one

could sense that a change was going to come, as long as the Mets had such a stellar pitching staff, led by the righty who already earned the nickname of Tom Terrific. By 1968, I wanted to be Tom Seaver. I used to mimic his pitching motion in my living room, in my backyard.

I made sure to rock back with the glove and bring it over my head, bring that right leg down to the ground, just like Seaver did. Whenever Seaver pitched, it was a day to be in front of the television, glued to every single pitch. Sometimes, Seaver was locked in pitching duels

with fellow greats like Bob Gibson and Juan Marichal and Don Drysdale and Ferguson Jenkins and Steve Carlton. But we also felt, believed and trusted that Seaver would emerge victorious – and end up on the Kiner’s Korner postgame show with Ralph Kiner, wearing a Met windbreaker with a towel around his neck and an ice cold Rheingold in his hand. Kiner would present each guest on Kiner’s Korner with a crisp $100 bill. Seaver would get at least 15 or so of those Benjamins each season. In July of 1969, I was present when Seaver was “almost perfect,” going 8 1/3 innings without allowing a base run-

FOOD DRIVE Continued from Page 7

sponse was overwhelming, but DiGregorio, a Nutley native, was not surprised. “Nutley is a very giving community,” DiGregorio said. “The residents are very supportive of what we do and our kids are very good about donating their time. With a hunger epidemic and the COVID (-19) crisis and unemployment, there’s so much going on.” Through DiPiano’s association with the Nutley Elks, more than $3,500 in donations was also raised. “It wasn’t just a football thing,” DiGregorio said. “It really was a nice community

VIEW

Continued from Page 7 become, but in 1967, Seaver was the National League Rookie of the Year, winning 16 games for a team that would lose close to 100 yet again.

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By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com Ah Pic-Nic. A staple in East Newark for 30+ years. Of course, even as a staple, it has had to make adjustments as so many businesses and restaurants have on account of the COVID-19 pandemic. But the menu is still being offered in its entirety, co-owner Manny Galhofo said. “Our takeaway business has always been good — but it’s been very strong lately,” Galhofo, who has partially owned the restaurant for the better part of the last 20 years, said. “And the best thing is we took away nothing from the menu — anything you want from it, it’s available.” In addition to the takeaway, Pic-Nic is also offering outdoor dining, under a tent, in the business’ parking lot. Galhofo says there are 8 to 10 tables available outside. “We were closed for about two months, but when we could offer outdoor seating, we reopened,” he said. “Under the tent, the tables are kept apart with all the social-distancing regulations being followed.”

Galhofo says it hasn’t been easy since his staff isn’t really used to serving outside. But he says employees have been working very hard to keep things as “normal” as possible — they’ve all adapted to the new COVID-caused norms. “We have such a very strong, loyal clientele,” he said. “They were very strong customers for us before this — and it is still that way now.” Galhofo also says Pic-Nic was ready to reopen for indoor dining on Friday, Sept. 4, as per Gov. Philip D. Murphy’s recent order. “We’ll go for it at 25% capacity indoors,” he said. “And we will continue, for now, with the outside dining. There will be a couple of tables inside. We will see how it goes.” Galhofo also wanted to be sure to note that new East Newark Mayor Dina M. Grilo “has done a great job” accommodating his business — and other restaurants — throughout East Newark. “She’s been great, Mayor Grilo,” Galhofo said. “She’s been working very hard to make sure things are better for us. It has not been easy. But she’s made it easier for us. We’re very lucky to have

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her. Yes.” To those who have missed Pic-Nic throughout the pandemic, Galhofo says, “Don’t forget about us. We’re still here. We’re still strong. And we are looking forward to having you back.” And when you do go back, you’ll be able to choose, from among other items, its legendary shrimp in garlic sauce, an array of seafood, chicken, beef & pork in many styles and so much more. For more details, hours of operation and to see the full menu & wine list, visit Pic-Nic’s website at www. picnicrestaurant.com or call (973) 481-3646. (And in case you were wondering, Pic-Nic does not offer courier delivery, like Uber Eats, Doordash, etc., because Galhofo said they were looking to take as much as 30% of all total orders.)

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Continued from Page 3 firefighters were standing outside. As I walked by the firehouse, a car pulled up and a few off duty firefighters exited the car. I heard them say it was very bad, three boys had been hit by a train and the boys were in very bad shape. One of the firefighters was crying. At that point, this 13-year-old boy knew a major

tragedy had struck.” And while Battista knew tragedy struck, a mystery remained — who were the unfortunate three? Kearny being as small as it is — chances were you knew one — or someone who knew one. “My father, who worked in Kearny, along with many other Kearny parents, spent the morning trying to find out the names of the boys,” Battista recalls. “He

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

later told me, about 11 a.m., he asked a Kearny police officer the names and the KPD officer assured him all the families had been notified. One of the boys’ father had a mild cardiac issue when he was confronted by KPD. “How times have changed. That morning, only the Kearny police responded. There was no Kearny first aid squad, there were no EMTs on the Fire

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Department, so they did not respond — only the two police ambulances that transported the victims to West Hudson Hospital. “It was a horrible day in Kearny.” Indeed. While this town of 153 years has had its share of bad luck, not much else could compare to losing three teenagers in one day. Moving forward Battista, now semi-retired, worked in New York City for 40 years. He recalls how he would use the old NJ Transit Boonton Line, no longer in service in Kearny since around 2002, as one of his ways to get to Manhattan. “Depending on which part of the city I was assigned, I had three ways to travel into New York City. The bus on the Pike to the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Travel to Harrison and take the PATH into the city. The third option until NJ Transit stopped the service was to take the old Erie Lackawanna Transit train from the Arlington Station in Kearny to the Hoboken terminal,” Battista says. “The NJ Transit service was limited to three trains in the AM and three trains in the PM, but the service was reliable and usually always ran, even in the snow. “I would catch the 8 a.m. eastbound train at Elm Street. Yes, the same train the three boys waited to leave the station that morning. About three times a year, that

westbound train, the same train that hit the boys, was running late. So when the gates went down, you would be looking for the arriving train and from the east, that westbound train would come charging through. “I remember one time our train was in the station and the late westbound train actually came to a full stop before Forest Street and allowed the passengers, including the late comers, to board the train safely. That was not always the case. In the early years, the crossing guards were still there and they would yell at the commuters to stand back — but we had to board the train. I remember the crossing guard yelling at me about three people being hit by a train years earlier as I went around the gate to make my train. “The next day, I was early and told her I remembered that tragic day. It was still a dangerous station. Eventually, the crossing guards were re-assigned, but the potential for another tragedy was still there. The one saving grace was eventually, the factory where the box car was parked on Track 3 was demolished and houses replaced the factory. That gave you a little more open sight to look for an oncoming westbound train. But you had to look in that direction for the oncoming train.”

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

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Obituaries teer of the Harrison Cancer League and also a member Anna Reis Cruz of Harriof the Holy Cross Rosary son died peacefully Monday, Society. Aug. 31, 2020. Anna was known for her She was 91. generosity and caring deFuneral services were meanor, but no one will ever under the direction of Mulforget her smile. In her free ligan Funeral Home, 331 time, she enjoyed gardenCleveland Ave., Harrison. A ing and especially spending funeral Mass was celebrated time with family. at Holy Cross Church, HarPredeceased by her husrison. Her entombment took band John (2016), Anna is place in Holy Cross Chapel survived by her children, Mausoleum, North ArlingJohn C. Cruz, Anna M. Cruz, ton. Joseph A. Cruz, Linda S. Born and raised in NewCruz (Thomas Valente), ark, Anna moved to HarriAnthony J. Cruz (Antoinette son shortly after she marVelona) Marilyn A. Cruz ried her loving husband of (Andrew Cicalese), also 69 years John C. Cruz. She survived by her grandchilwas a court clerk for the dren Michele A. Cepiel ( Hudson County Courts in Jonathan Brody), Joseph J. Jersey City. Cepiel (Yvette), Anthony J. Anna was a parishioner at Cepiel (Jessica), Jonathan Holy Cross Church, HarCruz, Joseph Cruz, Joshua rison, for over 60 years and Cruz, Matthew Barone, was a volunteer for Holy Joseph Barone (Jessica), Cross bingo every WednesJenna Barone, Cristina Cruz, day for over 50 years. She Quinn Cruz, Jessica Cruz, was also a lifelong volun-

ANNA REIS CRUZ

Johnny Cruz and Julia Cruz and 5 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her granddaughter Katherine Cruz, son in-law Joseph Cepiel, her loving brother Manuel Reis and her dear sister Angelina Corsaro. In lieu of flowers, the family request an expression of sympathy to the Harrison Cancer League P.O. Box 741, Harrison, N.J. 07029 or to the Alzheimer’s Association. 425 Eagle Rock Ave., Suite 203, Roseland, N.J. 07068 in care of the funeral home, in loving memory of Anna. If you would like to send a condolence message to her family, please visit www. mulliganfh.com.

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Miss Elizabeth Fields died Aug. 28, 2020, at Parker House Nursing Home, in Monroe Twp. Miss Fields was born in Kearny on Oct. 6, 1934, to Felix and Bridie Fields, and spent most of her life in Kearny. She graduated from St. Cecilia High School, then

All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission. attended college and graduate school at St. Peter’s College, where she obtained three master’s degrees. She worked for the US Department of Labor, New Brunswick, for many years before retiring. She took great care of both her parents as they See OBITS, Page 15

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VIEW

Continued from Page 8 ner against the Chicago Cubs, before a pinch-hitter Jimmy Qualls laced a double to leftcenter. I was seated in a box seat down the right field line and kept score like I always did since my very first game. When Qualls got the hit, I cried. I don’t know why. Later that year, the unbelievable happened, when the Mets went from being a laughingstock to the champions of the world. The “Miracle Mets” defeated the Baltimore Orioles in the 1969 World Series, even after Seaver lost Game 1 of the Series. I never had missed a day of school in my young life, but I so badly wanted to stay home the day after the Mets won the World Series so I could watch the tickertape parade on television. The thought of missing school was foreign in my household, but I was sent home after the first hour or so with a wicked case of diarrhea – even with the lone

bathroom in the house ing Day against the getting a complete Philadelphia Phillies. makeover. I raced into Sure enough, I was the bathroom about 15 there again, now as a times that day, much young adult. I stood to the chagrin of the and cheered loudly as plumber. But I did get Seaver made that walk to be home for the in and won that Openparade, to see my idol ing Day. Seaver receive the key Later that year, I got to the city. the chance to interIn April of 1970, I view Seaver for the sat with my father in a first time at Shea. It frigid Shea Stadium to was one of a handful watch Seaver strike out of times that I spoke 19 San Diego Padres, to him. It now went including the last 10 from hero worship to in a row. I remember having a job to do. It Nate Colbert struck out wasn’t easy to do, but I four times that day and managed. never came close to For all intents and touching the ball. purposes, if not for a My father passed clerical blunder, Seaver away in 1971, but my should have won his Observer sports columnist and lifelong Mets fan love for the Mets never Jim Hague sits with two of his most prized pieces of 300th career game wavered. Seaver was with the Mets in 1985, memorabilia, an autographed Tom Seaver baseball always a part of my life and an autographed picture of Seaver when his No. instead of the Chicago and was instrumental 41 was retired in 1988. Seaver died last week at the White Sox. In a strange in my ascension from twist of fate, Seaver age of 75. being a little boy into was in the opposing players. A year later, Seaver a teen. I can’t even begin to dugout when the Mets won got his no-hitter with the count the times I was at Shea Reds. their second World Series with Seaver on the mound. title against the Boston Red In 1983, Seaver made a The Mets did the unthinkSox, the last team that Seaver triumphant return to the able in 1977, trading Seaver would pitch for. Mets and on a bright, warm to the Cincinnati Reds for a In 1987, when the Mets’ April day, Seaver took the package of four non-descript stroll in from the bullpen to pitching staff was ravaged by injury, Seaver was given a standing ovation on Open-

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a chance to come back and pitch one last time with the Mets, but he couldn’t do it. He pitched a simulated game and was blasted by the Mets’ backup catcher Barry Lyons. That was the sign that Tom Terrific was done. In 1988, Seaver returned to Shea to have his No. 41 officially retired. Of course, I was there again, this time as a fan. I watched as Seaver did what he did best, went out to the mound at Shea. But this time, instead of throwing a pitch, he paid the Mets’ fans the ultimate compliment. He took a bow to each corner of the stadium. Again, like I did some 20 years earlier, I cried. This time, I knew why. So a major part of my life died with Tom Seaver Sunday night. That little boy who was filled with wonder, that influential teen who watched and marveled, the young man who got a chance to interview his idol and that aging sportswriter who received word that Tom Terrific, the Franchise, the best there ever was, was gone. And with that news, so went a major part of my life, a life that somehow always included Tom Seaver.

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Wednesday, September 9, 2020 by her husband, Walter, and her parents Anthony & Mary Mascaro. She is surContinued from Page 13 vived by her children Susan Leier (Frank), Walter Eckaged until they passed on. ardt (Susan), Judith MessiShe liked travelling and neo (Joseph), Diane Piscal exploring new places with (and late husband Stephen). her brothers. Cherished grandmother of She is survived by her two Kimberly (Blasé), Matthew brothers, John and William (Kerry), Marissa, Vincent, Fields, and several nieces Alexander, Jillian and Mark. and nephews. Great-grandmother of Sue Funeral arrangements lynn. She is also survived have been entrusted to the by her sister, Fay Parise. Condon Funeral Home, She was the beloved aunt to Kearny, (condonfuneralmany nieces and nephews. home.com.) Marie worked at Equality Mass was celebrated at St. Savings Bank in Kearny for Cecilia Church, Kearny, and 17 years and at Kearny Fedburial was in Holy Cross eral Savings Bank in North Cemetery, North Arlington, Arlington for five years last week. before retiring. Marie was a member of Schuyler Engine MARIE ECKARDT Co. 2 Ladies Auxiliary and Marie Eckardt, (nee Mas- the North Arlington Sencaro), 82, of North Arlington ior Harmony Club. Marie died peacefully at home also was a volunteer at the Aug. 22, 2020, after battling Queen of Peace Food Pantry. ALS for three years. Services were at Parow Born in Emerson, she Funeral Home, North Arlived in North Arlington lington. Interment was in over 60 years. George Washington MemoMarie was predeceased rial Cemetery, Paramus.

OBITS

The Observer | www.theobserver.com Donations may be made to the Schuyler Engine Co. 2 Ladies Auxiliary or the Queen of Peace Food Pantry in her memory.

his time to Queen of Peace School as a lunchtime monitor. He could also be seen with his camera, as he loved taking pictures for people at EDWARD P. CIVINSKAS JR. many different events and Edward P. Civinskas Jr. of celebrations. He was a member of the Kearny died Sept. 1, 2020, in Clara Maass Medical Center, Omega Club, which stands for “Old men eating great Belleville. appetizers.” He was 75. The husband of Anne Visiting was at the ArmitMarie (Schmidt), Ed also age & Wiggins Funeral had a sister Patricia. He was Home, Kearny. His funeral the loving godfather to Alex, Mass was celebrated at St. Caitlin, Earl, James and Stephen’s Church, Kearny. Victoria. Also surviving are Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. many other loving nieces Ed was a retired technical and nephews along with research associate for Max- their families. In lieu of flowers, kindly well House Division of Kraft consider a donation to the Foods, Inc., in Hoboken. St. Stephen’s Food Pantry or That is where he met the the Sisters of Charity, P.O. love of his life, Anne Marie Box 576, Convent Station, (Schmidt). Ed was very involved with N.J. many forms of parish life at St. Stephen’s Church. He ROBERT STEFFENS was a Eucharistic minister, Robert Steffens, son of member of the Holy Name Anna and Paul Steffens, Society and the Knights loving husband of Marie of Columbus. Ed also gave Steffens, died peacefully in

the early hours of Aug. 30, 2020, surrounded by family members. Relatives and friends visited with the family at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny, last week. A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church in Kearny. Interment was Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. He was the ideal father to Maryanne, Robert, Leslie and Paul and Pop Pop to five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Bob was born and raised in Union City, and was a proud graduate of St. Michael’s High School. He spent a lifetime regaling family members and friends of his early years in the small Hudson County city. Bob and his beloved Marie McGowan met at 16, married at 22 and spent 70 years by one another’s side. He worked for more than 30 years for the Ford Motor See OBITS, Page 16

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The Observer | www.theobserver.com

9/11

Continued from Page 1 The ceremony itself will be ongoing. There will be a tribute in lights — as there usually is the week of Sept. 11 in Manhattan — strategically placed to align with exactly where the Twin Towers once stood from the late 1960s until that fateful September day in 2001. Large screens will be set up, and the names of all humans who lost their lives that day — and who thereafter died from 9/11-related illnesses — will be scrolled. Photos and the names of all of North Arlington’s victims — including Joseph Zadroga, for whom the field is named — will be on another screen. (Zadroga, sadly, died after 2001, but is perhaps the most remembered name of all from North Arlington who lost their lives because of the attack.) Several local artists will sing patriotic songs, though when The Observer went to print, that program was not yet finalized. North Arlington’s first responders will be able to speak that night, as will the families of the victims, if they so desire. Pronti says Zadroga’s dad, also Joseph, has already agreed to speak. The family of the late North Arlington Mayor Joseph Bianchi has

also been invited to speak. The former mayor spent a considerable amount of time at what was once called Ground Zero, helping with what first was a rescue effort that later became a recovery operation. Pronti says, however, that it wasn’t just the encouragement he got from so many that drove him to want to have a special remembrance in North Arlington. “We’ve really lost the patriotism that we had after the attacks,” Pronti said. “Remember how patriotic we all were? We weren’t Republicans. We weren’t Democrats. We just all banded together and were Americans. There were flags everywhere. We could really use that kind of patriotism in our world today. So I really hope that hosting an event like this can really help to bring us back to that. It’s lacking, too much, these days.” Anticipating a large crowd, Pronti says he’s already met with NAPD Chief Scott Hedenberg to discuss logistics. The PD will be on hand to direct traffic and to ensure all who wish to attend the event will have a place to park. Residents from all towns are invited to attend, not just those from NA. For additional details, or updates on the ceremony, which is subject to change, check the official borough website before Sept. 11 at www.northarlington.org.

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

OBITS

Continued from Page 15 Company. He started at the bottom and he eventually worked his way up the ranks to ultimately work for years in international export. After retiring, he worked several more years privately in the same field. While Marie was his one and only love, he also had a deep and abiding

affection for the New York Yankees, from Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle all the way to Derek Jeter and Aaron Judge. Bob also loved college basketball, classic movies and cats, many of which he built winter shelters for. Bob was an exemplary family man and a loyal friend. He will be missed by all he crossed paths with and will always be in the hearts of his family and friends.

Engage with The Observer on social media We have a wide presence on social media. Be sure to follow or like us on our pages. Visit:

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Wednesday, September 9, 2020

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Observer Classifieds

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

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.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

ROOM FOR RENT

E. NEWARK

KEARNY

N.ARLINGTON

HARRISON

E. NEWARK 1 bedroom apartment. No Kitchen. $850/mth All Utilties Included. Available Now (201)772-9965. 16W03

KEARNY Kearny Arlington Section Large modern 3 BD”s,2 full baths LR,DR, and large EIK. CENTRAL A/C.Acces to laundry room,W/D hook-up, and 1 parking space on driveway. 2nd floor. Close to transportation and shopping center. No pets No smoking Separate utilites. Asking $2250/mth. 1 1/2 months security. Must see. Avl October 1st. Contact text or voicemail 201-725-5116 16W03

KEARNY Newly Renovated 2 BR 2nd fl. 2 family house. No pets/Smoking. 1 1/2 months security. $1850/month HT/HW included. Avl. Now (201) 772-8989 17W03

NO ARLINGTON 1 bedroom apartment. Ideal for one person or couple, No exceptions .No Pets/ Smoking H/HW included $1350 per month plus 1 1/2 month security deposit. 917-577-1465

HARRISON Room in Home $450 + 1 months security. Utilities included. call 973-420-0056 18W03

E.NEWARK 1st floor. 3 BR. LR. EIK.DR. 1 Parking space. Laundry room in basement. $2000 + 1 months security. Utilities separate. Available October. (862)371-3582. 16W03

HARRISON

HARRISON 2nd Floor. 2BR,LR. EIK. $1450 + 1.5 months security. Utilities Separate. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now. Call 973-462-5280

KEARNY 3rd fl. Near Garfield School. $1,225/ month. 1 1/2 months security. No smoking/ pets. Avl. Now. Parking for 1 car $50.00. Laundry on premises. (201) 681-8356 16W03

KEARNY Newly renovated, hardwood floors. Laundry onsite. HT/HW included. 2 BR start at $1,375 HARRISON 2nd floor, 2 1 BR start at $1,200 Jr. Bedrooms, LR, Kitchen, BR start at $ 1,150 (201) 289-7096 Bathroom. $1,350 plus 11W12 security. Utilities Seperate Call Carlos (201)988-7536 16W03

16W03

KEARNY 3rd Floor, 3 Br. LR, KITCHEN. ,close to transp, $1750 + 1 1/2 months security, Utilities seperate. No pets, No smoking, Avail Now (201)889-3118 or (201)997-4257 17W03

HARRISON First Floor. Near Middle School. 3 bedrooms / 1 bath / LR and DR. $1, 500+ 1 months security. water included. No smoking. Available Now Call 973481-4939 18W03

HARRISON Newly renovated 2 bedroom, 3rd floor. 1-2 people max. Available October 1st. No Pets. $1500/mth + 1.5 months security. Text or leave message after 3 pm. (973)445-1466 18W03

KEARNY 1st fl. 3 BR’s, DR, EIK, Bathroom. $1,800 + 2 months security. no pets. no smoking. Avl. September 20 (551) 216-9750. 18W03

LYNDHURST Shared room for rent. 1st fl. $600/month + 1 month security. Utilities included. Student preferred. (973)666-0887 16W03

LYNDHURST

SPACE FOR RENT

17W03

KEARNY Modern and hardwood fl. Quiet st and park in front 2 BR’S LR, DR, EIK / Dishwasher , BATH, W/D HOOK UP $ 1,700 + 1 1/2 months security , No pets, No smoking, Aval October 1st call after 3PM 201998-4336. 18W03

FOR SALE ROOM FOR RENT

HARRISON

HARRISON First floor. 1 BR. EIK. LR. $900 + 1.5 months security. Utilities included. close to PATH station. Available now KEARNY Newly renovat(917)915-6295 18W03 ed 3rd floor one bedroom apartment. Minutes away from Kearny Ave. and all major transportation. Washer/Dryer hook-ups. No pets. Rent is $1,200, security deposit required (973)444-4423 18W03

What an ad on Craigslist gets you ... • A free ad | • No-shows • Headaches | • People from other regions of NJ • scammers What an Observer Classified gets you ... • local readership | • local buyers | • Access to thousands of people who support our advertisers • Placement in a 133-year-old newspaper (and on www.theobserver.com) and our paper that readers are loyal each and every week. Truth is, nothing can compare to our Classified Section. Why take the risk with Craigslist? Try The Observer’s Classifieds ... and see results right away. Call us today to place your ad.

(201) 991-1600

N.ARLINGTON Second floor. 1 BR. $1175 + 1 month security. H/ HW included. call Carlos (201)988-7536 17W03

KEARNY Arlington Section, 2nd fl. 4 family home. 1 BR. LR. EIK. KEARNY $1,400/month. H/HW included. no pets/smoking. LYNDHURST Large 3 BR. Available Oct 1st (201) 1 Bath. LR. EIK. 5 min walk to Shoprite/Shopping/ KEARNY 998-7268 17WO3 Park. Laundry in unit. Professional space Freshly Painted - $2000/ on Kearny Ave. month. 1 block from 1 1/2 months KEARNY 3rd Floor. train station and bus to security. Roosevelt School District. NYC. Available Sept 15th 900 sq.ft. Proximity to Large 1 BR w/sitting area. (917)544-6201. 16W03. Newly renovated Kitchen. PATH & Bus lines. New Rugs through out. Avl Now. $1350 + 1.5 months se(201) 889-3118 curity. H/HW included. LYNDHURST 1 BR. 17W03 Laundry facility in base- $1,475 + 1.5 Months sement. No Pets/smok- curity. H/HW Included. ing. Available Now. Call Section 8 OK. No Pets/ (732)735-9055 18W03 Smoking (973)760-4877 ITEMS

17W03

KEARNY Large 1 Bedroom apartment on the first floor. Private entrance from street. 1,400 sq. ft. stainless steel appliances included. H/W floors throughout. Recently updated. Close to PATH and train. Cats and small dogs OK. Rent$1,750.00. Available Oct 1st. (201)997-6066 17W03

LYNDHURST

Need to sell as soon as possible 2 Air Conitioners in good condition under a year old, 3pc glass living room tables, wet vacuum, girl’s 20-inch bike, A round dining room Table set with 4 chairs glass top with wood ,all in good condition no delivery must pick up please call (201)428 1011 after 1pm 17W03

THE DEADLINE FOR CLASSIFIED ADS 3 PM, Monday. CALL 201-991-1600 OR SEND AN EMAIL TO classified@ theobserver.com NO ONE PERMITTED IN OFFICE

Bergen County Sheriff’s Offices assumes Bureau of Police Services An agreement has been reached to merge the Bureau of Police Services, formerly the Bergen County Police Department, into the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office, Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton announced last week. The agreement, which was signed last month by Cureton and the unions representing Bureau of Police Services officers (PBA49) and Sheriff and Correction officers (PBA134), completes the police realignment efforts that began in 2015. Under the agreement, members of the Bureau of Police Services will become sheriff’s officers and join the ranks of PBA 134, creating one unified police force on the county level. The merger will allow for greater flexibility, improved public safety and save taxpayers money. All public safety responsibilities currently assumed by the Bureau of Police Services will continue to be met by the BCSO. “Upon taking office, one of my first priorities was to reach an amicable and fair agreement to bring closure to the outstanding issues from the 2015 realignment. This landmark agreement puts the safety of Bergen County residents first and provides unity of purpose. I sincerely thank the leadership teams of PBA 134 and PBA 49 for their efforts throughout this entire process,” Cureton said. Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco, Bergen County freeholders, the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office and the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office agreed to realign the Bergen County Police Department under the authority of the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office as a measure to reduce duplication of services and share

resources. Since 2015, this move has saved residents close to $19 million and over 25 years, it will have saved taxpayers over $200 million. “Bringing this to a conclusion is something that the members of PBA 49 has been waiting for. We have proudly worn the patch of the Bergen County Police Department and we will now wear the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office patch with the same enthusiasm, as we become one of the premier lawenforcement agencies. We will continue to serve the residents of Bergen County professionally and efficiently. I think I would be remiss if I didn’t say that the members of 49 are grateful Sheriff Cureton negotiated with us fairly and in good faith,” Chris Weston, president of PBA 49, said. “On behalf of the PBA Local 134 membership, I would like to commend Sheriff Cureton and his command staff for fairly negotiating this agreement,” Jordan Kalendar, president of PBA 134, said. “This is a momentous occasion and we look forward to working together all as one. We are excited to continue making the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office the best law-enforcement agency in the State of New Jersey. This agreement will enable the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office to provide additional services that will ensure more safety and security to the residents of Bergen County.” The agreement is subject to ratification by the Bergen County Board of Chosen Freeholders and New Jersey Civil Service Commission. Freeholders will vote to ratify the agreement Wednesday, Sept. 2.

18 11

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

| www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Observer Classifieds

PLUMBING & HEATING

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN

Courageous Plumbing HVAC LLC LIC. # 11103 • Plumbing • (town inspections), violations corrected, steam boilers and hot water boilers, oil to gas conversions, Sewer Drain Cleaning, excavations. Visa & MC, Finances up to 24 payments, no interest (201) 206-4845

COPACABANA LANDSCAPING *Lawn Maintenance *Spring Clean-up *Top Soil & Mulch*CUSTOM DESIGN Free Estimates & Fully Ins. VISA/MC Accepted

Call Eder (201) 997-9271 www.copacabanalandscaping.com 43W39

Mario Esposito’s Landscaping LLC •Clean-up •Lawn Maintenance •Top soil •Mulch •Spring Clean up Free Estimate (201) 438-3991 17W04

PAINTERS

(201)637-1775 18W06

PEST CONTROL

PEST CONTROL Exterminating Fast Service • Roaches • Ants • Bed Bugs • Fleas Call 973-932-2092

CLASS ACT PAINTING *Interior * Exterior * Powerwashing * Sheetrock * Tile Fully Insured 201-988-2741 email: classactpainting@comcast.net 14W06

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

(201) 998-1262 13W06

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

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

erickconstructionnj.com Free estimates - Fully insured Lic#13VH04302300 10W54

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

G&R BUILDERS

14W06

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

ROOFING & SIDING

Roofing,

FREE ESTIMATES 20% Senior Citizen Discounts

(201) 893-0656

B&A ROOFING

High quality job at a affordable price Specialize in Shingles, Flat Roofs, New & repair siding,gutters, Tree Removal

and windows FREE ESTIMATES (201)719-3074 Licensed & Insured

FIVE STAR CONTRACTORS Concrete & Asphalt work Brick paving Cultured Stone General Masonry. No Job too small. Free Estimate. (973) 979-1167 (973) 323-5123

16W06

A-1 AFFORDABLE RUBBISH REMOVAL

07W09

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Licensed and Insured

RUBBISH REMOVAL

LAWN CARE! YARD CLEAN UPS! Call NOW to book your free estimate! Serving all of the Observer reader’s area! Call NOW! (973)220-0956

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. 18W06

CLEANING SERVICES

13W06

LACA CORP

Paint * Powerwash* and More •Interior • Exterior •Free Estimates•Fully Insured 973-759-8869 973-930-5002 05W52

A-Z MAGIC CLEANING Cleaning services for your house and office. Call for an appointment and free estimate. 347-743-5751 (Spanish) 973-391-4095 (English) 17W03

NEAT-NIK CLEANING I clean, using my own supplies. Reasonable, Reliable, Respectful. Call Elsie at

(973)743-2039 18W03

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 18W06

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

REAL ESTATE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES!

(973) 943-2254

JOSEPH V. FERRIERO Plumbing & Heating Kitchen and bath remodeling. Carpentry. Hot Water Heaters. Fully Ins. Lic# 165

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

15W06

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Credit for errors will not be granted after the next week’s publication. $10 for minimal changes. No refunds once ad is taken and C.C charged. Deadline for Classifieds Employment/ Business Monday 12:00 PM All others Monday by 3:00 PM. E-mail Ads to classified@theobserver.com.

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED TRACTOR TRAILER/

Drain Cleaner with

STRAIGHT JOB DRIVER Mid-Realty, Inc. has been a successful, light Plumbing experience professional company who has served MUST HAVE A CDL EMAIL Must have good clean New Jersey for over 50 years. If you would like to CITYBARRELINC@AOL. know how to enjoy an independent, successful COM (973)465-7800 CITY Drivers license required career in real estate or if you are an active BARREL INC CORDIER ST (973) 844-1300 agent looking for a change, 18W03 IRVINGTON, N.J. MONDAY call Mid-Realty, Inc. today for details and TO FRIDAY 7:00 TO 4:00 a confidential interview. SOME TIME (201)991-5719 or Company near ON A SATURDAY midrealty@gmail.com Mill St, Belleville 18W03 14W09

WAREHOUSE IN KEARNY NJ Packers, Sorters, Cutters $11/hr to start. Overtime On Saturdays if wanted. Call (201)998-8700

WAREHOUSE LABORER & Customer Service Apply in person 260 Schuyler Ave Kearny,NJ,07032 17W03

16W03

LOOKING FOR A SALES EXECUTIVE TO JOIN OUR TEAM 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

Executive Director The Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority is seeking candidates for the position of Executive Director. The Authority is a municipal organization that operates the collection and conveyance system consisting of five pump stations approximately 9 miles of gravity sewer and 3 miles of force mains. Executive Director is responsible for the overall sewer operations of the Authority. The position includes: •Supervision over all administrative and op •Attendance of monthly meetings •Responsible for all functions of the Authority •Maintenance oversight of all systems, equipment and property •Regulatory and safety compliance •Capital project planning and construction coordination •Sewer User relations •Budgeting •Financial oversight Qualifications: 5 – 10 years of sewer operations; supervision and management of personnel engaged in both daily and project level activities. College degree is desired. The following license is valued: C2 – public wastewater collection system. Salary range is requested. Benefits are available for full time employees. Resumes should be forwarded to zbalcazar@kmua.org with cc togpaster@pasteresq.com at no later than October 16, 2020. August 27, 2020 Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority

Hiring wood-shop & general labor workers $12/hr. Spanish + English Required. Call 973-482-8603 for interview.

L&R Manufacturing at 57 John Hay Ave in 18W03 Kearny is looking for individuals to help in our facilities. Hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. We offer 2 weeks paid vacation after 1 year, company contributed 401K plan, company paid life insurance plan and a pleasant working environment. Textile Factory Helper MUST speak English. Ap- for construction Assistant plications available at 577 Mechanic Boiler ExperiElm Street and 57 John ence 1875 McCarter Hwy Hay Avenue or submit Newark, N. J. resume to Apply in person ibarutis@lrultrasonics.com 7:00AM – 3:00 PM 18W03

18W03

Full time laborer needed in the Department of Public Works to do street cleaning, street/sewer repairs, line painting, truck washing, maintenance/cleanup of parks and playgrounds, garage and shade tree maintenance and other related duties. Valid NJ commercial driver’s license class B with air brake endorsement. Candidates who do not have the required license must obtain CDL by the end of their 90-day probationary period. 40 hours per week, Annual salary $35,842 Application available at www.kearnynj.org. Application Deadline is 9/25/20 18W03

SERVICES OFFERED

17W06

Plant Manager Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority (KMUA) serves South Kearny and Meadowlands Districts for collection and conveyance of wastewater is seeking a Plant Manager. KMUA’s system consists of five pump stations, approximately 9 miles of gravity sewer and 3 miles of force mains. The successful candidate must have at least 5 years’ experience in pump station operations and maintenance. The Plant Manager will report directly, and function under the supervision of the Executive Director and will be responsible for the operation, control, process changes, maintenance practices, and recordkeeping at all Authority pump stations. Ability to troubleshoot and identify operational failures, such as pumps, VFDs and related station appliances. Will conduct daily inspections of facilities for identifying potential process issues or hazards. Shall provide reports to the Director as requested. Responsible to maintain compliance with the facility’s NJDEP permits and other applicable regulatory permits. Oversees and trains the operational staff, prepares work schedules and equipment maintenance protocols, coverage for emergency call outs and resolves personnel issues and grievances in accordance with established labor practices. Required to be on-call for any emergencies 24 hours per day including weekends. Participation in monthly Authority meetings may be required. Intermediate computer skills are required. A High School diploma and NJ state driver’s license is required. College/ University course work desired. Must have ability to obtain a NJDEP C-2 license. Salary range is requested. Resumes should be forwarded to zbalcazar@kmua.org with cc to gpaster@pasteresq. com at no later than September 23, 2020 August 27, 2020 Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority 17W03

PET CARE BY BARBARA No Need to Worry

Dog walking - Cat sitting - Drop in Visits Along with other small pets. If they need medication or special attention, Rest assured I will care for your Pet as if they were my own. Call for consultation References on request (954) 856-5812 14W09

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Wednesday, September 9, 2020

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

BELLAVIA I ROUTE 17 I EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ

LABOR DAY

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115

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Stk#20-222, VIN#LB093493, Auto, FWD, 3-Cyl, Side Curtain Air Bags, Keyless Entry, P/S/ABS, Backup Cam, A/C, MSRP: $26,540. Based on 39 month closed end lease. Total due at inception $3,869 (includes $2,995 down, 1st months payment, $695 bank fee, $0 sec dep) +tax. Total payments $6,981. Residual: $13,270. Includes $2000 Buick Lease Loyalty if qualified.

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Stk#17565, VIN#H1569028, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, 29,218mi.

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VOLT LT

17,995

Bellavia “Celebrating Our 46th Anniversary”

OVER 350

CARS, TRUCKS, SUVS & CROSSOVERS REDUCED!

NEW 2020 CHEVROLET

TRAVERSE LS

209

Stk#20-1551, VIN#LJ249133, Auto, FWD, 6-Cyl, Side Curtain Air Bags, OnStar, T/Gls, Keyless Entry, P/S/ABS, Backup Cam, TC, Bluetooth, WiFi, 8-Pass, A/C, MSRP: $34,095. Based on 36 month closed end lease. Total due at inception $3,899 (includes $2,995 down, 1st months payment, $695 bank fee, $0 sec dep) +tax. Total payments $7,524. Residual: $20,116. Includes $1500 GM Lease Loyalty if qualified.

39 MO LEASE*

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

EMPLOYEE PRICING FOR EVERYONE

30 MPG

ENVISION ESSENCE

229

CRUZE LT $

HWY

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

NEW 2020 BUICK

ENCLAVE

Stk#20-300, VIN#LJ277437, Auto, FWD, 6-Cyl, Side Curtain Air Bags, OnStar, Keyless Entry, P/S/ABS, T/ Gls, Backup Cam, Satellite Radio, TC, A/C, Bluetooth, MSRP: $41,690. Based on 39 month closed end lease. Total due at inception $3,989 (includes $2,995 down, 1st months payment, $695 bank fee, $0 sec dep) +tax. Total payments $11,661. Residual: $22,513. In-cludes $2,599 Lease Loyalty if qualified.

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

2017 CHEVROLET

27 MPG

NEW 2020 BUICK

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BUY NEW TO GET A GREAT CAR!

2017 CHEVROLET

FIRST PAYMENT

Stk#20-273, VIN#LD154764, Auto, FWD, 4-Cyl, Side Curtain Air Bags, OnStar, T/Gls, Keyless Entry, P/S/ABS, Backup Cam, Satellite Radio, Alloy Whls, A/C, MSRP: $35,190. Based on 39 month closed end lease. Total due at inception $3,919 (includes $2,995 down, 1st months payment, $695 bank fee, $0 sec dep) +tax. Total payments $8,931. Residual: $19,707. Includes $1500 Buick Lease Loyalty if qualified.

15% OF MSRP CASH BACK!!

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

NATIONAL AWARD WINNER BUICK DEALER OF THE YEAR

ENCORE GX PREFERRED

179

NEW 2020 CHEVROLET

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

NEW 2020 BUICK

39 MO LEASE*

UP TO

Stk#20-1384, VIN#LS644529, Auto, FWD, 4-Cyl, Side Curtain Air Bags, OnStar, T/Gls,s Keyless ey ess Entry, Entr P/S/ABS, P Backup Cam, Satellite Radio, A/C, TC, MSRP: $28,695. Based on 39 month closed end lease. Total due at inception $3,690 (includes $2,995 down, $0 1st months payment, $695 bank fee, $0 sec dep) +tax. Total payments $7,371, Residual: 16,644. Includes $1000 Lease Loyalty if qualified.

Bellavia 30 MPG

189

Stk#20-1308, VIN#LB037631, Auto, FWD, 4-Cyl, Side Curtain Air Bags, OnStar, Keylesss Entry, nt y, P/S/ ABS, ABS Backup Cam, TC, A/C, WiFi, Bluetooth, MSRP: $22,295. Based on 39 month closed end lease. Total due at inception $3,690 (includes $2,995 down, $0 1st months payment, $695 bank fee, $0 sec dep) +tax. Total payments $4,485. Residual: $12,709. Lease price includes $1000 Lease Loyalty if qualified. 39 MO LEASE*

NOW THRU 9/14!

299

39 MO LEASE*

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

HUGE SELECTION OF BELLAVIA CERTIFIED & PRE-OWNED VEHICLES

2017 BUICK

2017 GMC

2018 BUICK

2017 BUICK

Stk#17453, VIN#HB137493, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, 25,554mi.

Stk#17596, VIN#H9149263, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, 23,239mi.

Stk#17590, VIN#H6331114, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, 21,951mi.

Stk#17548, VIN#JD060084, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, 29,987mi.

Stk#17637, VIN#HU197113, V6, FWD, Auto, 20,306mi.

ENCOREPREFERRED REGALSPORTTOURING TERRAIN SLE ENVISIONPREFERRED LACROSSE ESSENCE $

17,995

18,495

19,595

19,995

23,395

2017 CHEVROLET

TRAVERSE Stk#17630, VIN#HJ344537, V6, AWD, Auto, 31,580mi.

24,995

199 Route17 South East Rutherford, NJ 201.939.6800 BellaviaChevy.com

Sales – Monday-Friday 10am-8pm / Saturday 9am-6pm Service – Monday –Friday 7:30am-5pm / Saturday and Sunday – CLOSED

*Price(s) include(s) all costs to be paid by consumer, except for licensing costs, registration fees, and taxes. **On select models with approved credit. ^Financing thru GM Financial. Not all buyers will qualify. See dlr for details. ^^Free Maintenance includes 2 oil changes within the first 24,000 miles. Actual mileage will vary. Lessee resp for excess wear, tear, & mileage charges as stated. Optional equipment extra. See dealers for complete details. Other restrictions may apply. Pics are illustrative only. Offers end 9/14/20.

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

DENTISTRY DEDICATED

TO EXCELLENCE. With combined experience of 50 years, Dr. Elfar and his team of dental professionals, provide the highest quality of dentistry at affordable prices!

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• Invisalign

• Cosmetic Dentistry • Pediatric Dentistry • Implants

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• Preventative/

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Hygiene

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$99

NEW PATIENT EXAM, CLEANING, AND X-RAYS

FREE CONSULTATIONS (X-RAYS NOT INCLUDED)

$350 IN OFFICE WHITENING

Mina A. Elfar, D.M.D. General, Cosmetic, & Family Dentistry

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837 KEARNY AVE. KEARNY, NJ T: 201.991.1055

2 W NORTHFIELD RD. SUITE 302B LIVINGSTON, NJ WWW.GENUINESMILESPA.COM T: 973.758.8922