The Observer e-Newspaper — Feb. 10, 2021

Wednesday, 10 February 2021

www.TheObserver.com

Vol. CXXXIII, No. 40

THIS WEEK IN SPORTS HHS alum returns to coach girls’ basketball team.

See page 9

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

Drug bust leads to the arrest of 20, HCPO says

SNOW MUCH FUN!

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

F

ollowing a year-long investigation, members of the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations and the New York City Police Department, as well as other local, county and federal law-enforcement partners, arrested 20 individuals -- including a Belleville man -- and dismantled a large-scale narcotics trafficking network operating in Hudson, Essex, Bergen and Union counties, as well as New York City, and charged those involved with various narcotics offenses, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez said last week.

In addition to the arrests, officers seized more than 9,400 grams of fentanyl, more than

Photo courtesy of Michelle Petryszyn

Michael Petryszyn, 75, a resident of Fifth Avenue in Lyndhurst, certainly didn’t slow down after last week’s massive snow storm. In fact, his daughter, Michelle, says he kept up with his tradition of building a gigantic snow man in front of his home as he has for many years.

See BUST, Page 8

BCPO: East Newark man among those arrested in human-trafficking ring:

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

A

n East Newark man was one of 22 people who reportedly orchestrated a human trafficking and prostitution organization in and around

Bergen County, Bergen County Prosecutor Mark A. Musella said late last week.

The arrests were the result of a four-month investigation conducted by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office and Chief Robert Anzilotti.

Gabriel Torres, 30, a resident East

Newark, was charged along with 21 other defendants from various towns throughout New Jersey.

This past November, members of the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Squad initiated an investigation called “Operation Hope in Darkness,” into a report-

ed human trafficking, prostitution and money-laundering organization operating throughout Bergen County, in other parts of North Jersey and in New York.

The investigation, Musella says,

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See HUMAN, Page 16

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Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Belleville Historical Society will celebrate 150th new year since the arrival of first Chinese immigrants

was here before New York’s Chinatown.

“During the last six years of research, we have gathered a he Belleville lot of information about this Historical fascinating but little-known Society will be part of American history.” commemorate the The exhibit will include 150th anniversary of the first illustrations and articles from Chinese New Year celebrated newspapers that covered the in Belleville in 1871 with an Chinese community. exhibit at the Belleville Public Belleville established Library beginning on Chinese the first school for Chinese New Year, Friday, Feb. 12. immigrants and was home The exhibit, which will run to the first Chinese temple through February, chronicles and a number of Chinese the arrival of the first Chinese immigrants are buried immigrants here in 1870, Michelle advertising@theobserver.com 201-991-1600 in Belleville and North establishing the first Chinese Newspaper: Client: Arlington, according to community on the east coast Perrone. of the United States.

“There was tremendous “Most people assume that discrimination against the the first Chinese community Chinese at that time from in this part of the country California to New York, but was New York, but there was Re-creating a Qing Dynasty flag, Belleville Historical Society volunteer seamstress Sue Gabriele of Belleville checks dragBelleville welcomed the no Chinatown there yet. The on scales on replica of flag which flew on Chinese New Year in Belleville 150 years ago. The three-sided flag was originally newcomers,” Perrone first community was here in Advertising: Here is the updated template with a new photosaid. of Jarlynn Hyd obtained from a company in Germany, but lacked the red border and yellow dragon scales.

“The Belleville Historical Belleville,” Michael Perrone, Historical Society, said. “We always knew that Belleville had a Chinese community Society is also producing a president of the Belleville in the 1800s. But it was not video and commemorative until 2015 that we discovered booklet for the occasion.” that the Belleville community Attorney Advertisement

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

T

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3 Mother of Breonna Taylor to speak at HCCC event

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com Hudson County Community College will host Tamika Palmer, Breonna Taylor’s mother, during a College Speaker Series event at noon, Thursday, Feb. 18, 2021.

HCCC Assistant Professor of History Dorothy Anderson and HCCC Director of Cultural Affairs Michelle Vitale will co-moderate the discussion with Palmer.

The live Zoom event will open with a performance by Jersey City Poet Laureate Rashad Wright. The event will conclude with a virtual tour of the exhibition, “Azikiwe Mohammed: ‘Tales from Fold Out Chairs,’ and Rashad Wright: ‘In Heaven’s Wakanda’,” which has been curated

by Ysabel Pinyol Blasi and is being presented in partnership with Monira Foundation in the HCCC Benjamin J. Dineen and Dennis C. Hull Gallery.

The college requests members of the community participate by submitting questions

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for Palmer by Feb. 10 to mvitale@hccc.edu with a subject line “Breonna Taylor.”

Taylor became a lightning rod for the Black Lives Matter movement when she was shot and killed by police in her Louisville, Kentucky, home on March 13, 2020. The 26-yearold Black EMT was roused from her sleep when police, suspecting Taylor’s ex-boyfriend was storing drugs in her home, used a battering ram to execute a search warrant. No contraband was found.

The incident fractured Louisville and led to national protests. Taylor’s family settled a wrongful-death civil lawsuit, and the three police officers involved were fired.

Louisville passed “Breonna’s Law,” which bans no-knock warrants that allowed police to forcibly enter a residence without warning, and requires body cam use during searches. Those who wish to access the speaker series event featuring Palmer may do so by registering at www.tinyurl. com/HCCCTamikaPalmer.

Breonna Taylor

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IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION Opinion....................................................................................Page 6

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

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

Business Directory.................................................................Page 14

Health & Wellness Directory...............................................Page 10

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

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Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Despite storm, vaccinations continue at Hudson center

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

D

espite a multi-day storm that dumped up to two feet of snow in North Jersey last week, the Hudson County Vaccine Distribution Center successfully administered 100% of its COVID-19 vaccine allocation for the week, Caitlin Mota, a spokeswoman for Hudson County Executive Thomas A. DeGise said.

Roughly 1,800 individuals received a first dose of the vaccine while 912 were administered a second dose.

The center also reached a new milestone, having now administered 10,000 vaccines (8,753 first doses and 1,247 second doses) since opening its doors in late December.

“The snow emergency we experienced … certainly presented us with challenges but despite the storm, we are incredibly proud to have successfully administered our complete inventory of COVID-19 vaccines as anticipated,” DeGise said. “This is a true testament of our commitment to vaccinate all of our residents in a timely manner as they become eligible. I thank our Roads and Public Property and Park Departments, as well as those working in Corrections, for going above and beyond this week to ensure our vaccination was clear and accessible to everyone.”

This week, the county-run site will administer 1,800 first doses and 1,300 second doses. The center is open by appointment only.

Eligible individuals may make an appointment online by visiting www.hudsoncovidvax.org.

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KPD: Man stumbles to liquor store, gets DWI On Jan. 30 at 9:41 p.m., Officer Zack Latka and several backup officers were dispatched to a report of a drunken driver in the Quick Chek parking lot.

Officer Latka met the caller outside Quick Chek, who pointed out the allegedly impaired driver and his Honda Civic. The witness reported he was almost hit by this vehicle and followed it until the driver parked at Quick Chek and then stumbled over to the liquor store next door.

The accused driver, Giovanni C. Allende-Calderon, 44, of Kearny, was walking back to his car when he apparently noticed the officers waiting nearby. Allende-Calderon left the car, changed direction and began walking south on Kearny Avenue, allegedly ignoring Officer Latka’s commands to stop. Officer Latka caught up to Allende-Calderon a short way down the block and observed several obvious signs of alcohol impairment.

Allende-Calderon reportedly cursed at Officer Latka and notified him of the impending lawsuit his lawyer is going to file against him.

Allende-Calderon was charged with obstructing the administration of law, DWI, refusal to submit to breath

POLICE BEAT testing and failure to produce a driver’s license.

He was later released to a family member.

On Feb. 2 at 9:32 a.m., Officer Rene’e Crawford and Det. Jordenson Jean were summoned to the Urban Renewal Corporation at 53 South Hackensack Ave., which hosts the Collaborative Support Program of New Jersey’s public warming center. An employee there reported a burglary to her office.

A 64-year-old employee reported she arrived at work that morning to find that she could not open her office door with her key. With assistance from a co-worker, she was able to force the door open and realized the door had been tampered with earlier. The victim found her Lenovo computer tablet and 6 to 10 cans of Coca-Cola were missing from her desk. Several items had also been moved around on her desk.

Det. Jean interviewed overnight guests at the facility and learned one

had recently purchased the victim’s Lenovo tablet from another guest. Det. Jean recovered the tablet, which was later returned to the victim. Det. Jean then interviewed Demond T. Reed, 48, of Jersey City, the man who allegedly sold the tablet to another guest. Reed was arrested following that interview.

Reed was charged with burglary and theft of moveable property. It was also found Reed was wanted by the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office on a burglary warrant. Reed was booked and later lodged next door to the warming center at the Hudson County Jail.

On Feb. 5 at 3:16 a.m., Officer Kevin Matos saw a Ford Taurus near the corner of Maple and Afton streets that was stopped partially in front of a driveway and partially obstructing the roadway.

Officer Matos made contact with the driver, Hamlet A. Henriquez, 20, of the Bronx, who presented him with a New York State learner’s permit and the odor of raw marijuana. As Shakespeare wrote in his play of the driver’s name, “Bad deeds will be revealed, no matter how people try to hide them.”

Officer Matos, assisted by Officers Ellesse Ogando and Ruben Rivera, searched the Ford Taurus, finding 488

grams of marijuana distributed inside of 100 containers and bags, a digital scale, a marijuana grinder, a pack of rolling papers, three packs of brandname stickers for marijuana packages, $292 cash as presumptive proceeds of drug sales and two iPhones.

The officers also found a New Jersey driver’s license for Henriquez that displayed a different date of birth than that which was displayed on his New York learner’s permit.

It was believed the date of birth on this identification was fraudulent.

Henriquez was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, intent to distribute within 500 feet of public property and 1,000 feet of a school and possession of a false government identification.

Henriquez was also charged with the traffic violations of obstructing passage of motor vehicles, operating a vehicle while possessing drugs and a violation of the learner’s permit supervision law.

Henriquez was remanded to the county jail in South Kearny.

— CAPT. TIM WAGNER KEARNY POLICE DEPARTMENT

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Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Thoughts & Views EDITORIAL

In times of bad weather, listen only to Tony Mondero

W

ell, we all seem to have gotten through the recent snow storm. Of course, we certainly didn’t need the one that followed it a couple of days later. Still, we digress.

As the storm was on its way, as always seems to be the case, television meteorologists had predictions ranging anywhere from 6 inches to the worst snow storm in the history of the world.

And of course, whenever this happens, it causes panic, long lines at the supermarket for bread and water and all the other fun that comes along with it.

However, throughout the lead-up to the storm, Tony Mondero, the operator and head of the Harrison Weather Center, refused to panic. He refused to issue absurd predictions.

And he reminded everyone not to pay close attention to what the TV folks were saying.

Instead, he waited patiently, and as is always the case, he kept people calm. And when the time came, he issued, as per usual, an accurate prediction of what the snowfall would be.

He was right on the money for the “blizzard” and he was right on the money for the following snow that fell during the day Sunday, Feb. 7.

All of the panic that led up to the first storm could have been avoided if folks would just listen to Mondero’s guidance.

The truth is, it is in Tony Mondero that we trust when it comes to accurately and calmly predicting the weather, be it snow, hail, sleet, rain. You should trust in him, too.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Rose: Governor is wrong for letting prisoners get vaccine before others To the Editor: I believe that somewhere in New Jersey, there are senior citizens who have had their noses broken, eye sockets crushed and limbs fractured, as a result of assaults during an attempted robbery or a physical assault for no reason at all.

If they are fortunate, the people who committed these crimes are now in prison. However, prison is no longer seen as a punishment, but instead as a place to only rehabilitate inmates.

Part of the rehabilitation is providing access to social workers, educators, drug and career counselors, members of the clergy, mental and physical health workers and much more.

On the other hand, once their cases are closed, those who have suffered physical and mental problems from being assaulted are rarely, if ever, revisited to see if they can breathe, see, walk or sleep.

To add insult to injury, Gov. Philip D. Murphy has now decided that those convicted of crimes, incarcerated in prisons, deserve priority to receive the vaccine over seniors who are most at risk not to survive if they contract COVID-19.

The next time we elect a governor, it should be anyone not named Phil Murphy.

Armand Rose North Arlington

Thanks to the hero who cleared our sidewalks during recent blizzard To the Editor: To the hero who was kind enough to walk past my house and my neighbors’ houses on Howell Place with a snow blower clearing the snow from our sidewalks during the blizzard, on behalf of my neighbors and myself, thank you for your selfless act of kindness in the midst of a terrible storm.

I sincerely appreciate your efforts and

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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

concern for others.

You certainly went out of your way to help your neighbors and making our day by literally lightening up our chore of shoveling out from one of the worst snow storms in recent memory.

Jack Satter Kearny

39 Seeley Avenue • Kearny, N.J. 07032 • (201) 991-1600 Fax: (201) 991-8941 • www.theobserver.com

Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising

Kevin Canessa Michelle Rybeck Jim Hague kc@theobserver.com advertising@theobserver.com ogsmar@aol.com Editorial/Broadcaster Graphic Artist/Real Estate Sportswriter

Deadlines (until further notice) • Classifieds: 3 p.m., Monday • Obituaries: 10 a.m., Monday • Display/Real Estate: noon, Thursday • Help Wanted: noon, Monday — all ads must be sent to classified@theobserver.com.

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7 CO from Nutley charged in serious women’s prison beating: AG

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com Criminal charges were levied against three suspended correctional police officers — including one who is a resident of Nutley — for their alleged roles in an incident in which inmates were assaulted and seriously injured at the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women in the early morning of Jan. 12, 2021, Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal said.

The charges were filed in an ongoing investigation by the AG’s Office and the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office.

According to Grewal, between 10:30 p.m. on Jan. 11 and 1:15 a.m. on Jan. 12, DOC officers and supervisors assigned to the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility in Clinton conducted forced-cell extractions of inmates in the Restorative Housing Unit (RHU) complex, where 21 inmates were housed.

One of the correctional police officers involved in the forced extractions was Luis Garcia, 23, of Nutley, and two of the supervisors who were involved in and oversaw them were Sgt. Amir Bethea and Sgt. Anthony Valvano.

Garcia was charged with aggravated assault, official misconduct, tampering with public records or information.

The complaint against him, Grewal said, alleges that during the course of the extractions, Garcia purposely and knowingly attempted to cause serious bodily injury to a victim by using force beyond what was objectively reasonable and necessary in violation of DOC policy.

According to Grewal: On Jan. 12, 2021, at approximately 12:07 a.m., a five-person suited team comprised of correction officers from EMCF performed a forced cell extraction of “Victim 2,” who was housed in the RHU. During the extraction, Victim 2 was pepper sprayed seconds before the extraction team entered her cell, at which time Victim 2 is seen standing toward the left side of her cell.

Immediately upon entering Victim 2’s cell, Garcia reportedly punched and struck Victim 2 with a closed fist approximately 28 times in the face area, despite the fact Victim 2 had her arms up, was attempting to cover her face

to protect herself and was standing pressed up against a cell wall with her back to the officers.

DOC policy permits use of force that is objectively necessary and reasonable, and Garcia’s use of force against Victim 2 violated DOC policy and resulted in serious bodily injuries to Victim 2, including concussion and facial injuries, Grewal said.

It is alleged that Garcia (seen in photo) knowingly submitted a false report regarding the incident, in which he allegedly stated Victim 2 “was throwing punches toward my torso” as he attempted to restrain Victim 2. Video evidence, however, shows Garcia was punching Victim 2 when she was facing the wall and that she threw no punches at Garcia.

Meanwhile, Bethea, 35, of Springfield, was charged with two counts of official misconduct and two counts of tampering with public records or information The complaint against Bethea alleges the following conduct: On Jan. 12, 2021, at approximately 1:13 a.m., video shows “Victim 1” in her cell in the RHU complex. While in her cell, Victim 1 appears to throw an unknown white liquid substance out of her cell into the hallway of the RHU complex. A short time later, video surveillance shows Bethea and Valvano supervised a team of DOC officers who appeared outside Victim 1’s cell.

Victim 1 immediately complied with an order to place her hands through the food port of her cell door to be handcuffed. Victim 1 repeatedly asked officers not to harm her prior to their entry into Victim 1’s cell.

Bethea was present during the extraction of Victim 1 and was supervising the actions of the extraction team along with Valvano. He did not give Victim 1 an opportunity to exit her cell voluntarily, despite her submitting to the request that she offer her hands to be handcuffed and restrained.

During the subsequent forced extraction, one or more correction officers repeatedly struck Victim 1 with their fists, although Victim 1 was handcuffed. Bethea did not intervene to stop the officers’ use of force, which violated DOC

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policies that only allow for the objectively reasonable and necessary use of force.

Victim 1 sustained injuries during the cell extraction, including visible injuries to her right eye, which was later determined to be an orbital wall fracture.

Despite his presence at Victim 1’s cell during her extraction, and his observation of the extraction, Bethea allegedly failed to report the unauthorized use of force against a restrained inmate, who was not resisting. In a Special

Custody Report completed and signed by Bethea, he stated Victim 1 said she wanted to “kill herself,” this, despite the fact that no officers called a Code 66 or Code 53, procedures which are required to be implemented when inmates are suicidal or in the event of a medical emergency.

Valvano, 38, of Bound Brook, was charged with official misconduct and tampering with public records or information.

The complaint against him alleges the following conduct: Valvano allegedly did not intervene to stop the officers’ use of force, which violated DOC policies that only allow for the objectively reasonable and necessary use of force.

Despite his supervision of

the extraction team, his presence in Victim 1’s cell and his observation of the extraction, Valvano failed to report the unauthorized use of force against a restrained inmate, who was reportedly not resisting. In the report he completed, Valvano is alleged to have falsely stated Victim 1 was banging her head into the cell door and that her cell door had to be breached to prevent further injuries after she was handcuffed.

Surveillance footage shows Victim 1’s face through her cell door window, and at no time does she appear to be striking the window, and none of the officers near her cell reacted in a way consistent with her banging her head on the door.

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BUST

Continued from Page 1 3,400 grams of cocaine, more than 1,700 grams of methamphetamine, more than 800 grams of fentanyl pills, approximately 8 grams of heroin and a loaded firearm.

The task force also seized approximately $118,395 in cash.

The street value of the total

quantity of narcotics seized is approximately $1 million.

The operation’s ring leader and a major supplier of cocaine, fentanyl and heroin in North Jersey – Juan Tejada of Union City – has been charged along with his intricate web of nearly two dozen associates.

The operation – which involved the execution of search warrants at approximately two dozen locations across New Jersey and New York – also brought

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down a fentanyl manufacturer and supplier, Juan Carlos Moreno, who was producing tens of thousands of fentanyl and fentanyl/heroin pills in Washington Heights in New York City that were later provided to the Tejada drug-trafficking network and eventually into the hands of individuals in New Jersey.

“This was a large-scale, highly-organized narcotics trafficking network that for years had operated in Northern New Jersey and New York City funneling large volumes of heroin, fentanyl and cocaine onto the streets of our communities,” Suarez said. “The Tejada brothers used front businesses and counter-surveillance and had built an intricate network they believed was impenetrable by law enforcement; however, this joint-agency investigation demonstrates the power and reach of the law in stopping these deadly and destructive narcotics operations.”

Four main co-conspirators of Tejada – his wife, two brothers and an associate – were also arrested, as well as seven couriers and seven main customers who themselves are mid-level drug dealers, Suarez said. The narcotics were reportedly sold primarily in Union City, North Bergen, West New York, Bayonne, and municipalities in Essex, Bergen and Union counties.

Tejada employed the couriers to deliver the narcotics to his customers who then sold the drugs throughout the region, Suarez

said.

“The veneer of seemingly legitimate businesses that include a barber shop and a used car lot gave the Tejada family the appearance of normalcy. However, the reality was quite different.

Behind the family-run businesses was a transnational fentanyl and cocaine trafficking organization. The Tejada brothers and their organization have filled our streets with fentanyl and cocaine. That ends today,” said Jason Molina, special agent in charge, Homeland Security Investigations, Newark. “HSI and our law enforcement partners work together across the country and the world and bring down organizations like this, no matter how mighty or invisible they may seem.”

“These arrests represent another success in our ongoing work to keep New Yorkers from being victimized by illegal narcotics trafficking. I commend our NYPD officers, as well as all the agents and prosecutors involved, for their sustained efforts in this important case,” NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea said.

There were 20 arrests in all, including that of Aligie Delatorre, AKA “Ligi,” 29, of Belleville, (seen in photo) who was charged with conspiracy to manufacture/distribute CDS (fentanyl), a seconddegree offense.

Additional arrests are expected, Suarez said.

Detention hearings were to have taken place Feb. 8, 2021.

NA opens COVID-19 testing center

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site.

The site, which will be a drive through facility, is located on Disposal Road, adjacent to the DPW salt shed.

Operating seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the facility will offer the COVID-19 PCR test.

There is no out of pocket

cost to the participants.

Results will be generally available 24 to 48 hours following the test.

Registration is advised, and may be done at test. narlington.online.

When approaching the test site in your car, you must wear a mask. Please be sure to have insurance information, your Social Security number and a photo ID.

NA Elks hosting Ash Wednesday fish fry

The North Arlington Elks Lodge hosts an Ash Wednesday fish fry Feb. 17 from 4 to 7 p.m. Broiled and fried fish and shrimp dinners

will be available for $12. All meals are for takeaway.

Masks must be worn to pick up dinners at the lodge at 129 Ridge Road.

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Sports & Recreation WITH

Jim Hague

9

Harrison girls turn to ‘Lady Blue’ alum to lead in Caliendo

ogsmar@aol.com

NA’s Vikings: Rough start among COVID rules The North Arlington High School boys’ basketball team has sputtered out of the gates amid the new-fangled season due to the regulations and restrictions placed upon high school sports due to the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.

After the late start, the Vikings have lost all four of their games so far.

But that hasn’t discouraged head coach Marcello D’Andrea one iota.

“First and foremost, the kids have great desire to play,” D’Andrea said. “We knew it was going to be a little tough. We were returning only two starters and both are 5-foot-5.”

The Vikings suffered a big loss when Sean Manzo suffered a leg injury during soccer season that will keep him on the sidelines for the entire basketball season.

They lost another key player who was kept out of action due to the concerns caused

by COVID. But D’Andrea remains upbeat.

“I am optimistic that we can be playing our best basketball before the end of the season,” D’Andrea said.

“It’s all part of the process.

Even though the results aren’t there, I think we’ve been making strides in terms of team chemistry. They’re getting a feel for each other.

We’re working on situational stuff. We’re grasping the idea of better man-to-man defense. I don’t want them to get down too far. I want to build them up.”

However, the competitive side of D’Andrea is evident.

“No, I’m not a happy camper now,” D’Andrea said.

“I’m doing my due diligence to make the team better.

We subscribed to Hudl (the renowned video service) to break down every game. We know we are trying to get to the basket more and get to the free throw line. But the kids compete. They play hard. I’m happy to coach these kids. They’re a good bunch of kids.”

Leading the returnees is senior guard Joey Witt. The talented 5-foot-6 three-sport standout Witt (football, basketball, baseball) averaged eight points per game last season as the team’s shooting guard.

“He can play the 1 (point guard) if he has to,” D’Andrea said. “He’s the catalyst of the offense. Joey has to be on the floor. He brings the intensity and fire to the team. He’s the type of kid you want to have on the team. He’s the cog who makes the engine go.”

Another returnee is 5-foot5 point guard Fernando Baez.

See VIEW, Page 11

Photos by Jim Hague

The Harrison girls’ basketball team this year will count on the leadership provided by senior guard Haley O’Donnell (left) and junior forward Emily Leiras (right).

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com Jenn Caliendo is Harrison through and through. She’s born and raised in Harrison, schooled there in from prekindergarten through Harrison High, eventually graduating from Harrison and moving on to Rutgers-Newark.

In her journey through the years, Caliendo was an athlete, predominately a severely undersized center for the girls’ basketball team.

She continued her career in college at Rutgers-Newark, playing three seasons for the Scarlet Raiders, ending in 2009. She had to reinvent herself as a player at R-N, going from playing center in high school to guard in college.

“I had to learn to become a versatile player,” Caliendo said. “I knew that was going to be my assignment. My whole college career was getting to be an all-around versatile player.”

Caliendo also learned from two great coaches in her career, going from the immortal Hudson County Sports Hall of Famer Jack Rodgers in Harrison to Kevin Morris at Rutgers-Newark.

“I learned about the values of playing man-to-man defense, full court too,” Caliendo

said.

She also learned something about herself – she wanted to be a coach one day.

So Caliendo volunteered her time coaching kids on all levels – recreation, youth leagues, then her alma mater.

She became an assistant to Erika Thompson at her alma mater.

“I learned from other coaches, learned about their philosophies,” Caliendo said.

“I learned so much from Erika.”

Caliendo spent three seasons as Thompson’s assistant with “Lady Blue,” the nickname for the Blue Tide’s girls’ basketball program.

When Thompson became a mother during last season, she stepped down to concentrate on her parental duties.

“When Erika told me she wasn’t coming back, I didn’t know what to think,” Caliendo said. “It was going to require a whole new chapter in my life. But I knew I wanted to be the head coach. Years back, I knew I wanted it.”

For Harrison athletic director Kim McDonough Huaranga, it was a no-brainer.

She recommended Caliendo assume the head coaching duties. Caliendo was then appointed as the new head coach.

“I was beyond grateful,” Caliendo said. “It was really my dream come true.”

Caliendo realizes her importance to the Lady Blue sorority.

“Especially in this post-pandemic world, I have the responsibility of keeping these girls afloat and even inspired to continue to play sports,” Caliendo said. “I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work. I know the importance of being a student/athlete.”

In her playing days at Harrison, Caliendo was named the school’s top scholar/athlete and was honored at the NJSIAA’s annual luncheon.

She was also a member of the National Honor Society.

“My academics and sports were my No. 1 priorities growing up, so I expect nothing less from out girls,” Caliendo said. “I’m grateful to have the chance to motivate them from my experience and not just tell them.”

Caliendo had to face the adversity of coaching Lady Blue through the endless pandemic. In fact, for most of the time over the summer, Caliendo could do nothing. The summer leagues and clinics that her team usually participated See HARRISON, Page 10

10

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HARRISON

Continued from Page 9 in were all canceled due to the pandemic.

When the NJSIAA decided that the basketball season could begin on Jan.19, the Blue Tide were in the midst of a COVID-19 crisis. The program was shut down and the team was in quarantine mode.

However, the day before the quarantine was placed, Caliendo had to deal with tragedy.

Her mother, Rose Mockus, who was a great supporter of the Harrison basketball program, died after a long illness.

“She was part of me,” Caliendo said of her mother.

“She was truly part of our program.”

The Blue Tide had to remain away from basketball for two full weeks.

“Our two leaders (senior

Haley O’Donnell and junior Emily Leiras) accepted the responsibility and conducted Zoom meetings,” Caliendo said. “But we went two full weeks without seeing each other. It was such a gap.”

Caliendo kept her chin up.

“I always see the beauty in things,” Caliendo said.

“It’s a building season for us.

Patience is our team’s attitude right now. We had to slow things down and work on fundamentals. A lot of the girls don’t know fundamentals, so it’s been tough. We haven’t been able to have a smooth couple of days.”

The Blue Tide had two days of practice last week before facing a very good team in Weehawken. The final result was not pretty.

“We have hard working young girls,” Caliendo said.

“I’m so proud of them. They could have been down, but

they’re not. They’re not discouraged. They’re ready to fix their mistakes and get back out there. I’m excited about that.”

Leiras is the team’s top returning scorer. The 5-foot-6 Leiras averaged 14 points and six rebounds per game last season.

“She’s versatile,” Caliendo said. “She can play power forward. That’s her natural position. She shoots the ball really well. I’m going to use her on the perimeter a lot. She’s also very strong. I’m going to use her all over the floor.”

O’Donnell is a 5-foot-3 point guard who averaged 12 points per contest last season.

“She’s a good ball handler,” Caliendo said. “She brings energy to the game. She’s fun to watch. She’s willing to put her body out there, all over the floor. She dives for loose balls.

She has black and blue knees.

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Black and blue knees should be part of the Lady Blue program. That’s what Haley’s all about. She’s our captain.”

Sophomore guard Fatma Mohamed is a 5-foot-2 shooter.

“She’s developing her basketball IQ,” Caliendo said. “She’s getting smarter.

She also embraces criticism.

Through eye contact, I can tell she’s listening. She’s catching on quick.”

That’s a great concept – listening with the eyes.

Sophomore Janiyah Gutierrez is a 5-foot-5 forward.

“She’s strong in the post,” Caliendo said. “She has a lot of energy. I’m giving her a lot of responsibility to watch the sophomores. With all the adversity we’ve gone through, we need that. She’s strong and has some basketball skills.”

Sophomore Amaree Andujar is a 5-foot-1 guard.

“She’s a good ball handler with a positive attitude and energy,” Caliendo said. “It’s something to capitalize on.

It all starts with the right attitude. That’s the most important thing. She works with her teammates well.”

Rasha Abdeljalil is a 5-foot-

5 sophomore forward.

“She is a hard worker who is still learning,” Caliendo said.

Another newcomer is 5-foot-6 sophomore center Jamie Benavidas.

“I’m so pleased with her attitude,” Caliendo said. “She shows up and is executing.

I’m working with her. I think I’ve found a center.”

Make that an undersized one – just like Jenn Caliendo.

Needless to say, Lady Blue won’t be a bunch of world beaters this season.

“It’s a building season,” Caliendo said. “We have 13 girls in the whole program.

We have a lot to work on.”

But Caliendo is ready for the challenge.

“I think the goal is teaching them how to define what success is to them,” Caliendo said. “Just being one percent better than yesterday. That’s it. It’s not just about the wins this year but choosing to push through the adversity.

I believe we have something special in our hands. And all the challenges we have come across thus far shows that.

I’m grateful to be in a position to teach them that.”

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Styes usually disappear on their own within a week or so, but if they are painful (usually the ones on the inside of the eyelid are) they can be helped along with a warm, moist compress.

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the basketball team afgame against Weeter a successful season hawken and also beat with the soccer team.

Harrison. The freshContinued from Page 9 “He has some men are playing very basketball talent,” well. So we should be “He’s our best assist guy,” D’Andrea said. “He can okay in the future.”

D’Andrea said. “He is our best hit the 12-to-15-foot Some of the younger ball handler. He transferred to jump shot. He’s blendplayers include junior us from Union City last year and ing in well with the guard Shane Gilchrist, saw some time with the varsity.” others.” junior forward Iker Senior Pete Ziakos is another Janosek missed the Bouzas, junior guard three-sport standout, playing early part of the season Ben Castro, sophoin the same three sports as his due to COVID related more guard Kyle Vilbuddy Witt. The 5-foot-11 Ziaissues. lani and sophomore kos, a power forward, returns to Senior Hazan Moguard Kenny Jaramilbasketball this season after giv- hamed is a 5-foot-10 Photos by Jim Hague lo. If they play well on ing indoor track a try last year. power forward.

The North Arlington boys’ basketball team counts a ton the lower levels, maybe “He wanted to come back “We need him for they will get moved and be part of a team,” D’Andrea his senior leadership,” on their two little big men, namely seniors Joey Witt up to see some varsity (left) and Fernando Baez (right). said. “He’s a real good kid who D’Andrea said. “The plays hard. He has emerged as younger kids look up to him.” one of a leader. He’s an adequate Junior Will Hannan is a rebounder. He’s a big, tough “Make your vision 5-foot-10 forward.

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If D’Andrea has a reason to be “He’s probably our best optimistic about the future, it’s shooter,” D’Andrea said. “He’s the fact that the junior varsity a good slasher who gets to the team has won two of its games basket. He can knock down the thus far and the freshman team three (3-point shot). He’s a long is off to a 4-0 start.

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VIEW

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So as it stands now, the Vikings might be struggling, but the optimism is there.

“My motto is, ‘It’s time to get back to the grind and keep our chins up,’” D’Andrea said.

“That’s my philosophy.”

The Vikings’ next three games are against Wallington, Secaucus and Rutherford in the new-fangled North Jersey Interscholastic ConferenceDivision 4 alignment, another item caused by COVID. Each team in the Division 4 plays each other twice. Incredibly, because of COVID shutdowns Rutherford has yet to play.

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A BONE-DEEP BLOOD CONDITION

When you think about blood cells, you probably think about veins, not bones; however, bone marrow is where blood cells develop and grow, and this is why conditions such as “polycythemia vera” (PV) are referred to as blood cancers even though they begin in the bone marrow. PV specifically causes the body to create too many red blood cells, making the blood thick and increasing the risks of clots, heart attacks, and strokes. Although less common, over-production of white blood cells and platelets can also occur. Because PV is a slow-acting disease, it is challenging to catch in its early stages. Usually occurring in people over 60, there are treatments and medications that can reduce the health risks.

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Wednesday, February 10, 2021

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Obituaries AMADIS MIGUEL JIMÉNEZ

Amadis Miguel Jiménez transcended life in this world to join his Lord Jesus Christ in Heaven on Feb. 5, 2021, aged 92. He was the second of five children born in Rodas, Las Villas, Cuba, to Emilia Alemán Casanova and Miguel de la Caridad Jiménez Segarte, respected lifelong educators.

Amadis (a.k.a. “Jimmy”), seeking to escape the communist Cuban regime for the benefit of his family, emigrated to the United States in 1967, with his then-wife Maria Teresa (nee Ramos García), who resides in Kearny, and their four children listed here (youngest to oldest) with their respective spouses: Mabel Maria & Rolando Velazquez of Warren, Roque de Jesús of New York, New York, Barbara Alicia & Joseph Raymond Tatz of Wayne and Michael (Miguel) Amadis & Cristina Jiménez of Boca Raton, Florida.

He is also survived by eight of his nine grandchildren, Melissa Maria, Justin Michael, Blake Mitchell, Joseph David, Julian Alexander, Erin Barbara, David Nicolás and Havanna Caridad; and five greatgrandchildren, Taylor Marie, Hailey Jade, Jake Anthony, Mariah Caridad and Love Pia. His dearly beloved grandson, Thomas “Tommy” Ryan Brady (father of Hailey Jade), predeceased him. Amadis’ youngest brother, Amílcar Jiménez Alemán of Havana, Cuba, and

Novena to St. Claire

Ask St. Claire for 3 favors. 1 business 2 impossible. Say 9 Hail Mary’s for 9 days with a lighted candle. Pray whether you believe it or not. Publish on 9th day. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored, glorified & loved today and every day throughout the world Forever and Ever. Amen. Your request will be granted no matter how impossible it may seem.

E.E.P.

13

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numerous nieces and nephews in Cuba and the USA also survive.

In corporeal life, Amadis was an incessant thinker, avid learner, mentor and a natural teacher. Educated by his parents and their peers, he completed advanced university studies in accounting in Cienfuegos. He met his future wife, married in 1953, and started their family in Cienfuegos.

Before emigrating from Cuba, he worked in various capacities as a certified accountant for retail chains. After arriving in the USA, he worked in different sales management positions with several furniture retailers in the Newark area.

He most recently worked with the Furniture King stores, from where he retired more than 25 years ago.

Our beloved “Papi” (“Papa” for grand- and great-grandchildren), and “Jimmy” to his many dozens of friends, was a man of deep faith and witty and mischievous sense of humor. He also had an insatiable curiosity to explore all things numbers and could never resist a quick chess game (or tournament) with anyone in his path.

Above all, he dedicated his life with boundless energy and resolve to do his best in the name of his Lord, Jesus Christ, seeking to alleviate poverty and help people in his vast circle of love.

He will be profoundly missed by his loving family and the multitude of friends and his other loved brothers and sisters whose lives he touched, and that in turn inspired him. We are comforted by the conviction that his legacy is deserving of a beautiful eternal life, elevated to the most magnificent state imaginable. He lives in our hearts now and will forever.

There will be a “Homage & Celebration of Life” service Saturday, Feb. 13, from 1 to 4 p.m., Eastern Time, at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Friends and loved ones are welcome to make brief visits during those hours, observing strict social distancing and masking guidelines for the safety of all concerned.

This Homage & Celebration of Life will also be streamed live via Zoom accessible via

Shaw-Buyus Home for Services

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Passcode: 665823 Instead of flowers, please donate to either or both charities listed below, as you wish.

Papi contributed to these charities for many years. Thank you.

Feed the Children: https://secure.feedthechildren.org/site/Donation2?df_ id=1400&mfc_pref=T&1400. donation=form1 St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: https://www.stjude.org/ donate/donate-to-st-jude. html?sc_icid=header-btndonate-now

MAUREEN E. RUDDEN

Maureen E. Rudden (nee Reilly), 78, of Kearny, died Feb. 1, 2021.

A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church in Kearny. Interment was Holy

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

Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. The Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny, was in charge.

Born in Newark, Maureen lived in Kearny for the past 53 years. She was a longtime postal clerk at the Kearny Post Office until her retirement 15 years ago. Maureen most loved to be at the beach, and she especially enjoyed trips to South Jersey and to Fort Myers Beach, Florida.

Maureen was the loving mother of William Rudden Jr., Joseph Rudden Sr., Michael Rudden Sr., and Stephen Rudden; dear grandmother of 12, and adoring great-grandmother of five. She was also the cherished sister of Barbara Patuto, Dennis Reilly Jr. and Sharon Pendleton.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital P.O. Box 3704 Memphis, Tenn.

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY & VALENTINE’S DAY IN HEAVEN Dolores A. Sullivan Feb 12, 1931 - April 17, 2002

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“Till we meet again 143”

Love Always, Michele

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KEARNY 2 FAMILY - Arlington Real Estate just listed this home at a very attractive price. Each apartment contains a living room bedroom, kitchen and bath. Separate gas utilities and a driveway and garage. Why rent when you can own $369,000.

TURNKEY - This Kearny one family has just been renovated so you can move right in. Enjoy the new kitchen, 2 new baths, refinished floors upstairs and downstairs and fresh paint every where. Gas heat, driveway and garage. Schuyler School District. Asking $409,000. We have the key.

NUTLEY - This 2800 square ft. Colonial on a quiet 74 x 100 dead end lot is one of a kind. Formal living room and dining room, plus huge eat-in kitchen and family room, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths and 2 half baths. Hardwood floors, central air, 2 fireplaces and much more.

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KEARNY 3 FAMILY - This home has been owner occupied by the same family for over 50 years. The first floor apartment consists of 2 bedrooms and has a beautiful new gourmet kitchen and bath. Upstairs are two additional rental apartments. Two driveways and separate garages makes this property uniquely desirable. at just $499,900.

TRACT UNDER CON

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

15

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Lyndhurst’s Martin making most of lost time Martin and her close friends decided that they had to enjoy every game like it was their last one.

“At any time, it could be ended,” Martin said.

“So I said, ‘Let’s play for each other. Let’s play like it could be our last game, like it could be the last time with Lyndhurst across my chest.’”

It was the second time

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com As the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic caused havoc on the scholastic sports schedule, Lyndhurst High School’s talented senior point guard Carley Martin of the girls’ basketball team was concerned about her future.

“The year 2020 was really hard on all of us,” Martin said. “There were so many unknowns. We didn’t know if we would have a basketball season.”

With no access to the school for any workouts, Martin was fortunate to have a full-size court in her backyard, complete with a 3-point circle and proper dimensions, courtesy of her father, Chuck, the former head boys’ basketball coach at Lyndhurst.

“Thank God I have a court in my yard,” Martin said. “That’s where I did my workouts. It’s where me and my Dad played throughout the years.”

But Carley and her father had an arrangement about basketball.

“He was my coach from third through eighth grade,” Martin said of her accomplished father.

“He’s the one who introduced me to the game and helped me fall in love with the game. But once I got to high school, it was strictly father/daughter.

We didn’t bring basketball into the house.”

So with no organized basketball, no AAU schedule and now the threat of no high school season looming, Martin was indeed worried.

“All in all, I had to take a step back,” Martin said.

“I definitely had a lot of mixed emotions. I was so worried that I wouldn’t be able to have Lyndhurst across my chest anymore.

It’s what my Dad stood for. I loved hearing my name called with the starting lineup. I was so afraid it wasn’t going to

in a matter of minutes that Martin mentioned Lyndhurst being across her chest.

“It really means everything to me,” Martin said.

Last week, Martin performed like her career was coming to an end.

She scored a career-high 30 points in a win over Elmwood Park, added 23 in a win over neighbor-

ing rival Rutherford and had 15 points in a hardfought six-point setback to Wayne Hills in an independent game.

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

She is the first honoree of the winter scholastic sports season. The weekly feature culminates in

the presentation of The Observer Male and Female Athletes of the Year sometime in July.

Martin said that she had no idea she was approaching her career best in the win over Elmwood Park.

“Honestly, I don’t count points while I’m playing,” Martin said. “But Coach See ATHLETE, Page 18

Photo by Jim Hague

Lyndhurst senior guard Carley Martin signs her commitment papers to play basketball at Misericordia University next fall.

happen.”

But then, almost miraculously, there was a light at the end of the tunnel.

The NJSIAA determined that there would be a basketball season, albeit a truncated 15-game slate with no state playoffs.

At the very least, it was something. Martin was going to get the chance to go out with a blaze of glory, along with her longtime friends and teammates Gianna Alberti and Alexa Borino.

“They are my best friends,” Martin said. “We definitely wanted to leave it all out there. We wanted to get the chance to play one last time. So when we heard we were playing, we were so ecstatic and so happy. I got all my sneakers and jerseys out of the closet. I was so excited.”

So was Lyndhurst head girls’ basketball coach Perrin Mosca, who knew that he could count on Martin to provide a little bit of everything to the Golden Bears’ cause.

“We were basically going to run everything through Carley,” Mosca said. “We joke now and call her James Harden, because she does a little bit of shooting, getting to the lane, getting to the rim and getting to the free throw line. She’s taken it upon herself to take charge out there.”

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HUMAN

Continued from Page 1 revealed the lot of 22 arrestees were allegedly trafficking women throughout Bergen, Hudson, Middlesex and Passaic counties and in Rockland County and Queens County, New York, for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex acts.

As a result of the investigation, the primary leaders of a criminal enterprise were found to have engaged in moneylaundering and prostitution offenses since at least 2015.

The criminal enterprise employed drivers to facilitate the money laundering and prostitution offenses.

Additional individuals were also identified as managing and/or supervising separate money laundering and prostitution organizations throughout North Jersey and in New York.

The identified leaders of the enterprise allegedly secured multiple female victims to work for them each day. They would field calls for up to 12 or more hours a day from men soliciting women for sex acts.

Multiple drivers were employed by the organization to transport the female victims to various locations throughout the day for the purpose of having the women engage in commercial sex acts. Each victim would be forced to work for 12 or more hours per day, meeting with 20 to 40 men during their shift.

On average, the members of this organization charged $35 to $40 per 10 to 15 minute session for commercial sex acts, which generated hundreds of thousands of dollars in illicit proceeds each month.

This money was collected by various members of the organization.

The money was then broken down and deposited

into bank accounts in an attempt to avoid currency-transaction reporting requirements.

Once deposited, the illicit proceeds paid mortgages and other property maintenance expenses on multiple properties in New Jersey and Florida.

The organization reportedly kept 50% of the daily proceeds, while the victims were given the other 50%. Their money, however, was often used to satisfy a trafficking debt and/or wired to sex traffickers in

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the Puebla and Tenancingo regions of Mexico.

During the early morning hours of Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2021, more than 100 detectives from the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office executed 19 search warrants in Bergen and Hudson counties and arrested 21 individuals.

One individual is currently a fugitive from justice and is believed to be in exile in Colombia. The BCPO says it’s working with federal counterparts to locate and extradite her to the United States.

More than 50 women have been identified as being victims of human trafficking during the course of the investigation.

In partnership with the United States Department of Homeland Security Victim Assistance Specialists and Covenant House, the BCPO is undertaking efforts to connect these victims with all available resources to help them obtain a life free from sexual servitude and abuse.

Anyone who has been the victim of human trafficking is encouraged to call the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Tipline at (201) 2265532. Services and assistance are available, and the BCPO

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says it will ensure victims are connected to the resources.

Musella thanked the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office, Office of Homeland Security Investigations - New Jersey Division, Englewood Police Department, Paramus Police Department, Port Authority Police Department, Fairview Police Department, Hackensack Police Department, Hillsdale Police Department, Tenafly Police Department, Saddle River Police Department, Woodcliff Lake Police Department, the New Jersey State Police and the Office of the Bergen County Clerk for their work in the investigation.

Torres, (seen in photo) meanwhile, was charged with the financial facilitation of criminal activity, a thirddegree crime, and promoting prostitution, a third-degree crime.

Other defendants not residing in The Observer’s readership area were charged with crimes ranging from racketeering, human trafficking, promotion of organized street crimes and possession of CDS marijuana with the intent to distribute.

To see the full list of those charged, visit www. theobserver.com.

John M. Pinho Attorney at Law

301 North F. E. Rodgers Blvd.

Harrison, NJ

(973) 481-4364

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

11

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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.

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

REAL ESTATE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES!

COOK Mid-Realty, Inc. has been a successful, Fast paced bar/grill professional company who has served located in Ironbound New Jersey for over 50 years. If you would like to Newark looking for know how to enjoy an independent, successful an experienced short career in real estate or if you are an active order cook - Must be a agent looking for a change, team player - Weekcall Mid-Realty, Inc. today for details and ends a must a confidential interview. contact Joyce (201)991-5719 or 973-465-9795 midrealty@gmail.com 40W03 32W09

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

BELLEVILLE

HARRISON

KEARNY

KEARNY

N.ARLINGTON

BELLEVILLE

HARRISON 3 bedroom apartment fully renovated on 3rd floor. Central Air/ Central Heat Seperate Utilities. $2,200/mth plus 1.5 mth security. No Pets (917)577-1465 38W03

KEARNY 2 bedroom $1,450 + 1.5 months.

Utilities separate. security No pets/Smoking Leave a detailed message (973) 951-7385 38W03

KEARNY 3 ROOMS (1 BEDROOM) AT 12 GRANT AVENUE. $1,085/MTH PLUS UTILITIES. LAUNDRY ROOM. NO PETS. (973)493-7868 40W03

1 Bedroom Laundry facility on premises. 1 Parking Space Hardwood floors.

From $1300 + Utilities. See Super Apartment #2, 61 Newcombe St. Belleville.

Call Joe (862)202-9210 39W03

FULL TIME Light Factory work Apply in person Gild-N-son Mfg. & Sales 328 Belleville Tpke Kearny 38W03

Experienced Hair stylist full or part time.

Lyndhurst.

(201)207-8848 38W03

Houghton Chemical Corporation markets industrial heat transfer fluids and automotive chemicals with a long-standing commitment to our customers, employees and our community by insisting on excellence in products and services.

Carlstadt, NJ Plant/Warehouse Worker Full Time.

We are seeking a conscientious, resourceful, and versatile person for a challenging position in an industrial chemical plant in Carlstadt, NJ. Excellent work ethic, attitude and close attention to detail are required. Blending and packaging product Loading and unloading bulk and dry freight trucks Forklift operations Other duties and special projects as deemed necessary.

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Excellent salary and extensive benefit package including health, dental and profit sharing plan.

Send resume detailing experience and education to: Human Resources Patty Daly pdaly@houghton.com 40W03

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

Clinton Arms Apartments a 72-unit building including 8 units designed for the handicapped or disabled located at 610 Hunterdon St, Newark, NJ 07108 is reopening its waiting list for 3 &4-bedroom rental units to eligible families with limited income.

Qualifications will be based on Section 8 Federal guidelines.

Interested persons may obtain an application in writing to: Clinton Arms Apartments 277 Northern Boulevard, Suite 203 Great Neck, NY 11021 If you have a disability & need assistance with the application process, please contact Alyssa Kennedy at 516-487-0041 38W03

Auto supply driver, stock & counter persons.

NJ driver’s license.

Bilingual/English.

(973)344-0424 38W04

Insurance office seeking clerical working.

Are you seeking a part time position which offers long term employment and growth potential.

Offices located in Lyndhurst and Bloomfield.

Excellent opportunity.

Please e-mail your resume insureme@abbottins.net 40W03

Gift Merchandiser/ Front Sales Checkout and Pharmacy Technician needed.

Apply in person Midtown Pharmacy 581 Kearny Ave or send resume to applymidtown581@ gmail.com 40W03

SERVICES OFFERED

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Credit for errors will not be granted after the next week’s publication.

40W03 $10 for minimal changes.

No refunds once ad is taken and C.C charged.

ALL CLASSIFIED ADS MUST BE PRE-PAID Deadline for Classifieds Employment/ Business Monday 12:00 PM All others HARRISON Monday by 3:00 PM. E-mail Ads to HARRISON 2nd floor. 5 classified@theobrooms. 2 BR. LR. EIK. DR. server.com.

C/A & Heating.$1500 + N. NEWARK Goverment SECTION 8 preferred, 1 BR,1st fl.

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1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No smoking/Pets. Available March 1st (973)650-5858 38W03

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I will care for your Pet as if they were my own.

Call for consultation References on request (954) 856-5812 37W04

KEARNY

HARRISON Ground floor, 1 & 2 BR APT. HT/HW 1 bedroom. modern, included. $1,250 to $1650 + 1.5 Months security. freshly painted. Off-street E.NEWARK See Super, 6 Woodparking. Separate utililand Ave.Kearny Apt. 1 ties. No pets. Smoke-free.

(201)892-8035 1-1/2 months security. for appointment Available Now . Call or text 39W03 E. NEWARK 1 bedroom (973) 418-8500 40W03 apartment. No Kitchen. $875 + 1.5 months secuKEARNY 2nd Floor. For rity. All Utilities Included. a professional working No Pets/Smoking. Avail- HARRISON 2 BR. LR. couple.1 BR. 1 Bath. LR. able Now (201)772-9965 Kitchen. Bath. $1300+ 1 EIK. $1600 + 1.5 months months security.

Utilities 38W03 separate.Available March security. Utilities sepa1st. Call Carlos (201)988- rate. No Pets/Smoking.

Available February 1st.

7536 40W03 N.NEWARK (201)486-1794 38W03

HARRISON 6 rooms, 3 BR’s, LR, DR, Kitchen, C/A, Near Trains, 1 Parking space. No Pets/Smoking. $1700 + 1 months security. Utilities separate. Laundry on Premises. Available March 1st (201)486-7807 38W03

HARRISON 4 room apartment (1 bedroom) Close to PATH, $1,250/ mth plus 1.5 mth security. 1 year lease. Utilities Seperate. No Pets/ Smoking. 308 1/2 Warren St (973)437-6799 for appointment. 40W03

KEARNY

39W03

KEARNY Newly renovated, hardwood floors.

Laundry onsite. HT/ HW included. 2 BR start at $1,450 1 BR start at $1,295 Jr. BR start at $ 1,995 (201) 289-7096 40W12

38W03

N.ARLINGTON Newly renovated. 2 BR. LR. EIK. 1 Bath. $1450 + 1.5 months security. Plus utilities.

No Pets/Smoking. Close to Transportation. Call between 9am - 9pm (201)966-8095 38W03

KEARNY Studio, $850 + 1 months security. Utilities included. No Pets/ Smoking. Available Now (201)667-1427 40W01

N.ARLINGTON Studio 1,150/mth plus 1 mth KEARNY 2nd fl. Modern LYNDHURST security H/HW included 2 BR, Big LR, H/W floors.

Parking available Laun$1,600 + 1 month secudry on premise. No pets/ rity. Utilities not included.

No Smoking/Pets. Avl. LYNDHURST 1 bedroom Smoking Close to transMarch 1st. (201) 953- on 2nd floor, H/HW in- portation. Single or coucluded. Small pets OK. ple preferred Available 4961 39W03 $1,230/mth plus 1 mth March 1st (201)997-2341 security. Available March Call between 10am-7pm 1st. (201)575-5270 38W03 38W03 KEARNY 2nd floor 3 BR. LR. EIK. $2000 + 1 Months security. Heat What an ad on included. Laundry room Craigslist gets you ... in basement. No Pets/ • A free ad | Smoking. Available March • No-shows 1st (201)790-3032 40W03

KEARNY 2nd fl. 2 BR, Modern EIK, Bath, LR, DR, $1,500 + 1 1/2 months security. H/HW included.

No smoking/Pets. Close to Trans. Credit check.

Avl. Now. (201)747-0303 KEARNY 357 Kearny 38W03 Ave, Kearny 1 BR, LR, EIK. $1200 + $1400 security.

HT/HW Included. AvailKEARNY 1 bedroom able Now. (201)283-2729 3rd floor on Stuart Ave. or (973)465-0166 40W03 $1,100/mth plus 1 mth security. Heat Included.

Available Now (201)991KEARNY 3 LG ROOMS 7391 38W03 (1 BEDROOM) IN WELL MAINTAINED BUILDING KEARNY LR. Modern EIK. AT 111-117 BELGROVE BR. $1,275 + 1.5 months DRIVE. $1,325/MTH INsecurity. H/HW included. CLUDING HEAT/HOT close to all TRANS. Avail. WATER. LAUNDRY ROOM. March 1st (201)906-5153 NO PETS.(973)493-7868 38W03

KEARNY 1 BR. LR. Kitchen. $1250 + 1 months N.ARLINGTON 1st Floor. security. Heat included.

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Available March 1st Call $1300 +1 months secuCarlos (201)988-7536 rity. Heat/HW included.

40W03 Call Carlos (201)988-7536

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2 BR, $1,300/month, HT included. 1 1/2 months security. No pets. No Smoking Avl. Feb. 1st. KEARNY 2 BR, 1st floor, bath, living room, din(201) 916-9460 39W03 ing room Please call (551)580-1905 40W03 KEARNY 1 BR APT. HT/HW included. $1,250/month.

See Super, 654 Elm St, Kearny. Call Sofia after 3pm(201)998-3516 for appointment.

N.ARLINGTON 1st Fl. 1 BR, near Transportation. $1300 + 1 1/5 months security. No smoking. One year lease. Available Now (973)838-1662 36W06

40W03

• 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

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Wednesday, February 10, 2021

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.

TOWNHOUSE FOR RENT

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Martin has already given a verbal commitment to Continued from Page 15 Misericordia University in Dallas, Pennsylvania to play basketball there next (Rich) Tuero (who is season. also the respected and “It’s one of the best honored football coach at (NCAA) Division III the school) told me, ‘Hey programs in the country,” Martin, you just dropped Martin said. “The coaching 30.’ I knew I had to bounce back in that game, staff there is tremendous. because I didn’t play well When I went there for a against Weehawken in the visit, I felt like I was home.

It had everything I wanted. first game. So going into The campus is beautiful.” the game, I had a little Martin plans on majoring chip on my shoulder.”

Mosca said that Martin is in government law and a positive role model to her national security, hopefully going into the field of Nayounger teammates. tional Homeland Security “They all love her,” Mosca in behavior analysis. said. “She’s a good role Mosca knows he’s going model to the underclass girls. She’s always having a to miss his little James good time. She’s just a good Harden when she heads off to Dallas. kid overall.”

“It’s going to be tough Mosca said that she’s a without her,” Mosca said. credit to her father, who “We’re definitely going to obviously taught her well. miss her.

She’s been there “She knows the game,” every game for four years.

Mosca said. “You can see She takes care of herself that. There are things and she’s always ready to you just don’t have to tell Carley that you have to tell go.”

Martin has to be ready. others.”

ATHLETE

She’s only 187 points away from the magical 1,000-point milestone.

There’s something that wouldn’t have happened with no season.

“I’m hoping to get to that,” Martin said.

With the interview ending, it was learned that Martin’s maternal grandfather Rich Ferruggia had passed away that day.

“I plan on playing for him every game for the rest of the season,” said Martin, who was very close to her grandfather. “I still feel like I have more in my tank.”

On another note, in the January 27 editions of the Observer, there was an article written about the Lyndhurst girls’ basketball team that mentioned Gianna Alberti as being a standout soccer player. That was an error. Alberti is an excellent softball player who looks forward to playing softball for the Golden Bears later this year. The Observer apologizes for the error.

DENTAL Insurance

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“Medicare & You,” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2020 Includes the Participating (in GA: Designated) Providers and Preventive Benefits Rider. Product not available in all states. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, LA, NY; call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN); Rider kinds B438/B439 (GA: B439B).

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6255

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

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The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Bellavia

ROUTE 1 7 EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ

“Celebrating Our 46th Anniversary”

Bellavia

Bellavia

OVER 350 CARS, TRUCKS, SUVS & CROSSOVERS REDUCED!!

NATIONAL AWARD WINNER BUICK DEALER OF THE YEAR

NEW 2021 CHEVROLET

TRAILBLAZER LS

129

NEW 2021 BUICK

ENCORE

Stk#21-1292, VIN#MB100642. MSRP $22,595. Based on 39 month closed end lease. Total due at signing $2,995 down + $129 1st Mo. Payment + $695 bank fee + $0 sec dep + tax, title and MV fees. Includes $2000 Conquest if qual. 10k mi/yr. $.25 thereafter. Total payments $5,031. Residual $12,890. Price(s) include(s) all costs to be paid by consumer, except for licensing costs, registration fees, and taxes. Financing thru GM Financial.

Not all buyers will qualify. See dealer for details.

$

33 MPG HWY

39 MO LEASE*

GX

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

31

MPG HWY

36 MPG HWY

31 MPG

NEW 2021 CHEVROLET

MALIBU LS

139

HWY

$

39 MO LEASE*

Stk#21-192, VIN#MB080798. MSRP $26,645. Based on 39 month closed end lease. Total due at signing $2,995 down + $159 1st Mo. Payment + $695 bank fee + $0 sec dep + tax, title and MV fees.

Includes $2,000 Buick Lease Loyalty if qual. 10k mi/yr. $.25 thereafter. Total payments $6,201. Residual $14,954.74. Price(s) include(s)

ENCLAVE

NEW 2021 CHEVROLET

ESSENCE

EQUINOX LT

$

39 MO LEASE*

269

$

Stk#21-1037, VIN#MS101721. MSRP $28,695. Based on 39 month closed end lease. Total due at signing $3,995 down + $149 1st Mo. Payment + $695 bank fee + $0 sec dep + tax, title and MV fees. Includes $1500 Conquest if qual. 10k mi/yr. $.25 thereafter. Total payments $5,811. Residual $16,930. Price(s) include(s) all costs to be paid by consumer, except for licensing costs, registration fees, and taxes. Financing thru GM Financial.

Not all buyers will qualify. See dealer for details.

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

39 MONTH LEASE

NEW 2021 BUICK

149

VIN#MF046070. MSRP $24,495. Based on 39 month closed end lease. Total due at signing $3,995 down + $139 1st Mo. Payment + $695 bank fee + $0 sec dep + tax, title and MV fees. Includes $2,000 Conquest if qual. 10k mi/yr. $.25 thereafter. Total payments $5,421. Residual $12,983. Price(s) include(s) all costs to be paid by consumer, except for licensing costs, registration fees, and taxes. Financing thru GM Financial. Not all buyers will qualify. See dealer for details.

159

$

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

32

MPG HWY

39 MONTH LEASE

Stk#21-126, VIN#MJ122360. MSRP $41,960. Based on 39 month closed end lease. Total due at signing $2,995 down + $269 1st Mo. Payment + $695 bank fee + $0 sec dep + tax, title and MV fees.

Includes $3,000 Buick Lease Loyalty if qual. 10k mi/yr. $.25 thereafter. Total payments $10,491. Residual $25,777. Price(s) include(s)

NEW 2021 BUICK

ENVISION PREFERRED

27 MPG HWY

33 MPG

NEW 2021 CHEVROLET

TRAVERSE LS

179

HWY

Stk#21-1201, VIN#MJ126165. MSRP $34,095. Based on 39 month closed end lease. Total due at signing $3,995 down + $179 1st Mo. Payment + $695 bank fee + $0 sec dep + tax, title and MV fees. Includes $2250 Conquest if qual. 10k mi/yr. $.25 thereafter. Total payments $6,981.

Residual $19,775.10. Price(s) include(s) all costs to be paid by consumer, except for licensing costs, registration fees, and taxes. Financing thru GM Financial. Not all buyers will qualify. See dealer for details.

$

39 MO LEASE*

SILVERADO1500DOUBLECAB

269

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

Stk#21-1280, VIN#MZ205389. MSRP $40,065. Based on 39 month closed end lease. Total due at signing $3,995 down + $269 1st Mo. Payment + $695 bank fee + $0 sec dep + tax, title and MV fees. Includes $2000 Loyalty if qual. 10k mi/yr. $.25 thereafter. Total payments $10,491. Residual $23,237. Price(s) include(s) all costs to be paid by consumer, except for licensing costs, registration fees, and taxes. Financing thru GM Financial.

Not all buyers will qualify. See dealer for details.

$

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

39 MO LEASE*

269

$

NEW 2021 CHEVROLET

26

MPG HWY

1-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

39 MONTH LEASE

Stk#21-216, VIN#MD041463. MSRP $35,240. Based on 39 month closed end lease. Total due at signing $3,995 down + $269 1st Mo. Payment + $695 bank fee + $0 sec dep + tax, title and MV fees.

Includes $1,000 Conquest if qual. 10k mi/yr. $.25 thereafter. Total payments $10,491. Residual $19,030. Price(s) include(s) all costs to

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BUY NEW TO GET A GREAT CAR! HUGE SELECTION OF BELLAVIA CERTIFIED & PRE-OWNED VEHICLES

2018 CHEVY

TRAX LS

2018 CHEVY

2018 CHEVY

CRUZE LT

EQUINOX LT

15,895

$

2019 CHEVY

MALIBU LS

2017 BUICK

2017 GMC

TERRAIN SLE

ENCLAVE

2018 CHEVY

SILVERADO1500DBLCAB

Stk#17873, VIN#JB612359, Stk#17742, VIN#JS637879, Stk#17806, VIN#KF187523, Stk#17794, VIN#H6352772, Stk#17798, VIN#J6161596, Stk#17787, VIN#HJ294755, Stk#17919, VIN#JZ193473, 5.3L, 1.4L, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, 20,162mi. 1.4L, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, 17,390mi. 1.5L, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, 29,670mi. 1.5L, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, 4,334mi. 2.4L, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, 25,667mi. 3.6L, V6, FWD, Auto, 37,938mi.

8-Cyl, 4WD, Auto, 26,565mi.

$

14,488

$

17,895

$

17,995

$

18,488

$

22,495

$

31,995

CERTIFIED 2016 CHEVY

EQUINOX LT

CERTIFIED 2018 BUICK

ENCOREPREFERRED

CERTIFIED 2017 GMC

YUKON SLE

Stk#17847, VIN#J6161596, Stk#17877, VIN#JB635987, Stk#17664, VIN#HR337654, 2.4L, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, 46,035mi. 1.4L, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, 34,085mi. 5.3L, 8-Cyl, 4WD, Auto, 48,581mi.

$

15,488

$

16,488

35,995

$

BELLAVIA I ROUTE 17 I EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ

201.939.6800 • BellaviaChevy.com

Sales – Monday-Friday 9am-8:30pm / 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 3/1/21.

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Wednesday, February 10, 2021

DENTISTRY DEDICATED

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FLEXIBLE HOURS IN BOTH LOCATIONS • EARLY, LATE AND WEEKEND HOURS

837 KEARNY AVE. KEARNY, NJ T: 201.991.1055

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