The Observer e-Newspaper — March 3, 2021

Wednesday, 3 March 2021

www.TheObserver.com

Vol. CXXXIII, No. 43

ON THE INSIDE Pronti says Bergen County’s not doing enough to get senior citizens vaccinated.

See page 7

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

DREAM TO REALITY Years after its conception, Lyndhurst PD’s spectacular comm-center opens

Story & photo by Kevin Canessa

A

few months ago, Lyndhurst Police Lts. Paul F. Haggerty and Vincent Auteri said I was really going to enjoy getting a tour of the department’s new communications center. The work was underway after a decade of planning. However, it slowed down because of, you guessed it, the COVID-19 pandemic.

But after all the planning, the dream of setting up a stateof-the-art center in the basement of headquarters is finally a reality. And on Tuesday, Feb. 23, we got the tour -- and it certainly didn’t disappoint. (In the picture above are Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr., Mayor Robert B. Giangeruso and Haggerty.)

Story continues on Page 4 ...

SEE OUR SPECIAL ADVERTISERS On PAGE 8

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Wednesday, March 3, 2021

East Newark’s website gets much-needed overhaul

East Newark’s website has been redesigned to make it much easier for officials to communicate with East Newark residents about everything from the COVID-19 pandemic information to emergency weather announcements.

The website, viewable across all platforms, also serves as a one-stop storehouse of information about many of the newer programs and initiatives taking place at Borough Hall and throughout town.

“We wanted a clear way of communicating the borough’s services, showcasing all that is available to our residents,” Mayor Dina M. Grilo said.

“Our old website was very outdated.”

The site was overhauled by AlphaDog Solutions, of Belleville, which specializes in creating websites for governmental entities and counts 19 municipalities, two county offices, the State PBA and a host of other organizations among its clients.

The new site is filled with information. It includes brief biographies of Grilo and the members of the Borough Council, a calendar of events, an easy-to-use tab to contact the borough’s various departments

and a gallery where photos of borough events are highlighted. The new website also has a tab listing licensing, building and various other municipal codes.

The site has even been created with accessibility in mind, as the site is compatible with screen readers used by blind and visually impaired individuals.

In the immediate future, the most important tab on the new site might be

the one for COVID-19 information. In fact, the first wave of COVID-19 cases in March 2020 illustrated to borough officials that creating a new website was imperative in this ongoing state of emergency.

“It was really important during that time, when state-imposed safety regulations forced many stores and business to close, that we had a strong and immediate way of communicating

with our residents,” Grilo said. “For example, we needed a way to get the message out about the food pantry we had established for the food insecure.

“And we needed a way to get the message out about our new program to help seniors who couldn’t get out of the house; we would bring the food right to their doorstep. COVID-19 showed us that we needed a much better website to communicate with our residents.”

It’s part of an initiative Grilo says she is hoping to breathe into the town she lovingly calls “small but mighty.”

The first woman to serve as the borough’s mayor – who succeeded Mayor Joe Smith, who served 32 years – recognized that it is cost-effective to have a website that contains large amounts of pertinent information for citizens.

Visitors to the website may easily locate, say, details about sewer fees, thus freeing borough workers to go about their daily duties.

In time, Grilo said, residents will be able to pay the municipal taxes and make other payments through the website.

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Veterans will be celebrated again with banners in NA

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

Y

ou may have seen the banners that donned Ridge Road last summer. Each had a photo of a veteran. Each explained the veteran’s military service and years. They were a powerful reminder of all the women and men from North Arlington who dedicated their lives to the service of the United States of America.

Unfortunately, last year, the banner program was curtailed thanks to COVID-19.

But that hasn’t stopped Councilwoman Donna Bocchino from bringing the banners back in 2021. In fact, she’s more determined than ever to make sure the 80 or so banners from 2020 are back up this season -- and are joined by 80 or more new ones.

But how did this all come about? We’ve never seen anything like it -- at least nearby.

It was all fate, Bocchino says.

“My daughter had a baby -- she had the baby in Oc-

Councilwoman Donna Bocchino is seen here with the late ‘Pete the Marine’ Patti, standing under his banner on Ridge Road in 2020.

tober 2019,” Bocchino says.

“So I was traveling between her home and Scranton. So I would take back roads. All of a sudden, I am stopped at a little red light and I see all these banners up. Everywhere.

Every town I went into, there were these military banners.

So I pulled over and I took

a picture. And at that time, I

was running for council.”

After grabbing the pics, Bocchino says she approached Mayor Daniel H. Pronti and said she loved the concept and wanted to bring them to North Arlington, irrespective of the election’s outcome in November 2019.

Fortunately, having been victorious, that point was moot -- and Pronti concurred -- it was a great concept both believed would look great along Ridge Road.

Fast forward to 2020. Bocchino was now on the council.

She found a company in Florida called Military Tribute Banners. That company does nothing but the tribute banners like the ones she witnessed on the back roads of Pennsylvania.

She contacted the company

-- and the rest, as they say, is history.

“They seemed to be a smaller company but that’s all they do,” Bocchino says. “She sent me a sample for my first (council) meetings and boom, it was a hit.

The plan in 2020 was to display the banners from Memorial Day to either the 4th of July or maybe even Labor Day, depending on how well the banners held up with the elements. (They survived quite well, Bocchino reports.)

But then COVID-19 hit.

And Bocchino says she and her colleagues couldn’t see asking people to sponsor the banners when so many were out of work, some were sick, the country in the midst of a See BANNERS, Page 19

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Continued from Page 1

It’s situated in what used to be a fingerprinting room. One first walks into a foyer of sorts which may be used for breakout discussions, etc. A sliding, tinted-glass door, separates that part of the room from where the really amazing technology lives -- and where the heart and soul of the Lyndhurst Police Department is.

The second one walks into that room, it’s like a return to something you might have Haggerty demonstrates the computer seen on the TV show “24.” that displays a 911 caller’s exact To the immediate right location on a map. and left are two desks -where the dispatcher and/ has another map -- and when And as remarkable as all of or a supervisor sits. There’s a a person calls 911 for help, it that is, on a long wall in the radio console to communicate immediately pings the precise front of the room is more than advertising@theobserver.com with the officers on201-991-1600 the location of the caller and a dozen, high-definition flat streets. There are numerous r: Client: -- even displays the number screens that have live, realcomputer monitors, where if they’re calling on a mobile time HD video of strategic there’s access to DMV phone. Think about that for locations inside Town Hall, records and a bunch of other a moment and recall stories, in township schools and from pertinent information. from the past, where police a mobile camera unit that, at One screen includes a map were unable to locate callers the day we toured the center, of the entire Township of who were phoning in on a was stationed at the DeJessa Lyndhurst, where there are mobile.

Bridge linking Lyndhurst and dvertising: Here is thewhere updated with a new photo of Jarlynn Hyde: digital markers everytemplate No longer is that an issue Nutley. single police unit is currently for the LPD. Those cameras are located. As the units move, so, The technology is equipped with automated too, does the map displays. absolutely unreal. Surreal license plate readers.

Another remarkable screen almost.

Two of the screens were funded by a CARES grant -and include thermal imagery -- and display a person’s body temperature as they approach the cameras attached. There’s even a camera in the room

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where those arrested are first taken before entering HQ for processing, so their temperatures may be taken.

Also, in the coming months, 10 more cameras will be installed in strategic locations throughout Lyndhurst to help the police to better fight crime.

So while Lyndhurst police officers on the street are fighting crime, there are others doing so remotely -- and because of this, many sectors of the township will be covered when police are elsewhere. And while Lyndhurst has always enjoyed a reputation as being very safe, it’s a pretty good bet to be accurate saying it’s never been safer.

A DECADE IN THE MAKING This massive undertaking was originally the brainchild of Paul N. Haggerty, retired Lyndhurst police captain and current OEM Coordinator, township communications director and volunteer firefighter. His son, Lt. Paul F. Haggerty, took over for his dad, but not before the elder Haggerty saved the township a lot of money because of his expertise.

“His passion for the trade and dedicated work in designing and completing the necessary frequency coordination and FCC licensing application procedures saved an estimated $300,000 in outside consultant fees,” Paul F. Haggerty said of his dad.

The project was funded by an ordinance through the OEM at a total cost of just under $1.4 million. Of course, that seems like a complete bargain when you truly observe the advance equipment. It was completed with technology from Motorola Solutions and a local company called Packetalk.

It was a necessary project, Paul F. Haggerty says, because the previous system was two decades old -- and quite antiquated.

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Haggerty gathers round one of two new dispatch consoles as Lt. Richard Holicki answers an incoming call.

Continued from previous page “The project replaces a 20-year outdated communications system in disrepair with the inability to obtain replacement parts,” Paul F. Haggerty said. “The old system had numerous band aids and patches in place which were made with parts acquired from other local agencies, that had replaced similar system several years ahead of us. Essentially we were operating on life support.

“The legacy Motorola system used copper Verizon tie lines to link all of the sites, which incurred a monthly cost, and are going to be terminated since being phased out by Verizon in the near future as most agencies have switched to microwave or fiber lines. Packetalk of Lyndhurst built a secure wireless network for public safety which the township owns and does not cost a monthly fee and can be used for township-wide surveillance cameras.”

Haggerty pointed to some highlights of the project, including: • New antennas and necessary cabling at five strategic sites within the township.

• New portable and mobile radios for all police officers and newer police vehicles, which was completed in the first phase of project. The implementation of these radios drastically cut down on failures within the township while the new system was being built out. (These communications are now encrypted and may not be intercepted by scanners.)

• New portable radios and paging devices for the fire department, EMS and public schools.

• Packetalk wireless network inclusive of 10 street cameras.

• New dispatch consoles and furniture for dispatch points. New consoles offer a more advanced resource accountability and implements interoperability.

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• New Emergency Call Works 911 system to replace the original system used by the department. (911 calls come in directly the LPD HQ.) • Implementation of Emergency Alerting System for schools within the township to provide immediate critical information.

In all, Haggerty says he’s thrilled to be able to complete a project initiated by his dad -- and he’s certain the township and its police department are better equipped to handle the challenges of modern policing.

“The new communications room offers a more operationally efficient working environment which allows for social distancing, a breakout area for critical incident operational planning and supervision,” he said. “The room was built with the future in mind. We were not thinking for the moment -- it was planned and developed for years ahead, which allows room for growth.”

Meanwhile, Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr. took time to thank Mayor Robert B. Giangeruso and the entire Lyndhurst Board of Commissioners for their “continued support of our agency and local first responders, and especially for understanding the priority for the overall safety of our residents and first responders to complete this project.”

Auteri, similarly, echoed these sentiments.

“This is a significant upgrade to our public safety communications and it was designed to increase efficiency during both emergency situations and everyday law enforcement functions,” Auteri said. “Our ability to respond adequately to emergencies and other types of calls for service relies directly on our ability to communicate quickly, clearly and in real-time -- and this new communications infrastructure does just that.”

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Thoughts & Views EDITORIAL

Remembering the great Eagan’s

T

om Catucci, a resident of North Arlington, has a slice of North Arlington history in his backyard. Not too long ago, he sent us a photo of the neon letters that used to be atop Eagan’s Restaurant before it was torn down in 2002 in favor of a new CVS pharmacy.

That year, while driving near the restaurant, he asked if he could take the letters — and they said yes. His friend, an electrician, helped him put them together — and to this very day, they remain in his backyard as a reminder of what once was. Thanks for sharing this with us, Tom. Wish we could send you ‘one Frenchie gravy, one’ as a thanks!

Bergen County must do better with COVID-19 vaccines

W

hen Kearny Mayor Alberto G. Santos expressed his disappointment a few weeks ago that Kearny was only getting 100 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, we were equally as frustrated.

(Fortunately last week, that number tripled.)

And yet, we learned just a few days ago that number pales in comparison to the number of doses being distributed to municipalities in Bergen County and, for the purposes of this editorial, North Arlington (and Lyndhurst.)

North Arlington Mayor Daniel H. Pronti told us the weekly dose allotment he’s been getting. And it’s a big-fat zero.

Yes, zero.

None.

Not one.

Not a single dose of the potentially life-saving vaccine has been given to municipalities in Bergen County. Two major sites have been set up in the county — at the New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus and at the parking lot at the Meadowlands.

That’s it.

In Hudson County and elsewhere, in addition to large-scale vaccination sites, municipalities are being given doses, supposedly based on population, for distribution at local clinics. And while the local doses in Hudson are nowhere near where they need to be, they’re there, at least.

For residents of North Arlington and elsewhere in Bergen, it’s the mega-sites or nowhere. This is not only unacceptable, it’s obscene.

Bergen County must reconsider this abhorrent decision to shut out local towns. Senior citizens have it rough enough at it is, and to expect them to have to travel to East Rutherford or Paramus — then have to wait on horrid lines to boot — is plain cruel. It also says very little of the seniors who do not have access to transport.

It is our hope someone in Bergen County will hear this plea — and the plea made by Pronti — and start offering doses so local health departments may conduct clinics.

Absolutely nothing else will suffice.

Ribbe: Better efforts needed for senior vax To the Editor: After scanning much of the material addressing our response strategies to the pandemic, one quickly finds that age matters with respect to the priority for gaining access to a vaccine. That’s as it should be. Our oldest are clearly high-order targets of this aggressive virus and all its variants.

However, words are scarce about specific plans, and attendant actions slow in delivery for reaching the homebound. The latter may be characterized in two segments: First, those who are

LETTER TO THE EDITOR seriously ill or disabled and living at home, but who may be taken to a vaccination site and secondly, those whose severe lack of mobility means that someone qualified must come to them.

The latter is the more difficult circumstance with which we must deal. Both segments usually center around aging seniors in the hands of caregivers at home, who might themselves lack

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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

vaccinations.

In Nutley, there was an approach for contracting medically-trained personnel through a hospitalbased group to reach the homebound for vaccinations.

Sadly, the plan has presently hit a snag.

Most of us may think that the homebound are a small minority of the U.S. population, but estimates put that number in the millions.

Let’s not make these people an “orphan” part of our lifesaving efforts.

James H. Ribbe Nutley

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

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Wednesday, March 3, 2021

Pronti: Bergen must do better vaccinating senior citizens

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

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orth Arlington Mayor Daniel H. Pronti is known for being very mild-mannered. He loves his borough. And he says he aspires to lead here -- with no desire to move up to higher office on any level.

However, when it comes to the way vaccines are being offered in Bergen County, all bets are off, as Pronti says Bergen County is doing it the wrong way -- and because of it, senior citizens of North Arlington are getting shut-out.

Pronti noted that in neighboring Hudson County, leaders have opted to allow at least some doses of the COVID-19 vaccines to be given to municipal health departments for distribution at local clinics.

In Bergen County, however, he says municipalities have not been offered a single vaccine dose for local distribution, and it’s presented him and other mayors with headaches and unimaginable nightmares.

“Here in North Arlington, we believe it would have been a much more responsible approach to have offered vaccinations to our senior citizens, those with serious immunodeficiencies and our teachers right after we vaccinated our front-line workers,” Pronti said. “Our borough administrator has been reaching out to the Bergen County Health Officials, regularly requesting a vaccination site within our borough, in order to accommodate those who are most in need of the vaccine and those who have a difficult time traveling or waiting on long lines.”

That hasn’t happened to this point, but the mayor is hopeful that could change with the new, single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine getting its Emergency Use Authorization late last week.

“Especially now, with the new J&J vaccine being released, we believe we would be even better equipped to store and distribute the doses,” he said. “I believe it is important to vaccinate everyone, includ-

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Pronti says that because of the decisions made by county officials, he’s taken the brunt of complaints from residents who find these decisions to be unacceptable. Yet he understands the anger residents express.

“I’ve had North Arlington senior citizens reach out to me on numerous occasions very upset that there are no vaccination locations in North Arlington,” he said. “I simply explain -- time and time again -- how the vaccination process excludes local municipalities in Bergen County and that Bergen County has a facility at New Bridge in Paramus and the NJ state-run mega site is at the Meadowlands. The mayor and Councilwoman Donna Bocchino noted that at the Meadowlands super-site, lines are long and in many cases, the elderly, including those in wheelchairs and with canes or walkers, are made to wait, without the ability to sit, for hours at a time.

“Each time I explain the distribution process, I feel the frustration of the people I have sworn to serve,” Pronti said. “Hopefully with the release of more vaccinations, we will be given an opportunity to offer a convenient vaccination to each and every resident of North Arlington.

We continue to be more than willing to do our part to assist our seniors. In doing so, as the mayor, I will not be receiving a vaccination until it is made available to every one of the senior citizens in town (who desire one).”

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Sports & Recreation WITH

Jim Hague

9

Lyndhurst’s Martin scores 1,000th career point

ogsmar@aol.com

Wrestling season officially begins with practice Believe it or not, the high school wrestling season officially began with the first day of practice on Monday.

The season will be truncated much like the basketball seasons that will end this week. There will be a host of dual meets (no tri-meets or quads), then there will be four region tournaments that will be invitation only to the top 16 qualifiers, then move on to the state tournament.

Unfortunately, there will be no district tournaments this season. The pandemic has eliminated the chances for the middle-of-the-road .500 or so wrestler who gets hot at the right time.

There will also be no team state playoffs this year, so the squads that hang their collective hats on a state tourney berth will have to wait until 2022.

Still, it’s almost miraculous that there will be such a thing as a wrestling season, considering the close contact the wrestlers are with each other and the safety regulations that the NJSIAA has placed on all sports because of the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.

Needless to say, it’s been a confusing time for the local coaches and teams.

“I did my schedule three different times,”

said Kearny head coach Tony Carratura, Jr. “Then we switched to another format, so I changed the schedule again.”

“It’s definitely an odd feeling,” said Belleville head coach Joe Pizzi.

“We’re used to doing things one way for so long.”

But both local coaches feel fortunate to have a season to coach.

“I think it’s a great thing that they’re trying to get a season in,” Pizzi said. “Everything is different and it’s a quick season. There are all the different guidelines we have to follow. I try to teach my kids to look at the positive. They’re going to get something out of it.”

Especially for someone like Alisa Safforld, who is among the top girl wrestlers in the state and should contend for a state title among the girls.

“This is Alisa’s senior year,” Pizzi said. “She lost last year by three points to the girl that won the state championship. She needed shoulder surgery after the season. She recently went to get it checked out and had the surgery. But it’s nice for her to get back in action to prepare for college. It’s especially important for someone like her See VIEW, Page 11

Photo courtesy of Carley Martin

Lyndhurst senior Carley Martin poses with her father Chuck, the former boys’ head basketball coach at Lyndhurst, after she scored the 1,000th point of her career last week.

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com When Carley Martin was a young girl, growing up in Lyndhurst, she would attend the basketball camps run by her father, Chuck, the former head boys’ basketball coach at Lyndhurst High School.

One of the counselors at Chuck Martin’s camp was the star player on the Lyndhurst girls’ basketball team named Camila Alonso, who went on to become the 2012-2013 Observer Female Athlete of the Year.

“Camila was my absolute idol growing up,” Martin said.

“I remember her teaching me how to do drop steps and

up-and-unders. I wanted to do whatever she did. I was absolutely obsessed with her. I wanted her fame and I wanted her glory.”

And there was a particular accolade that Alonso reached during her playing days that intrigued young Martin.

“I looked at the trophy case and saw the ball with all the 1,000-point scorers,” Martin said. “That’s what I wanted to do. Scoring 1,000 points has been my dream since third grade.”

Alonso was the last Golden Bear girls’ basketball player to reach the 1,000-point plateau eight years ago.

That is, until last week, when Martin etched her place

in Lyndhurst folklore forever.

Martin reached the 1,000-point milestone with a long jump shot against rival Secaucus last Tuesday on Senior Day. It was only fitting that Martin reached the plateau in a home game with an assortment of family and friends on hand.

“My biggest dream had come true,” Martin said.

“You don’t know how much I wanted to get to 1,000. That is the ultimate basketball goal to be a 1,000-point scorer.”

And yes, Martin is the first Lyndhurst girls’ basketball player to reach 1,000 points See MARTIN, Page 10

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MARTIN

Continued from Page 9 since Alonso did with an absolute barrage her senior year.

It’s only fitting that Martin joined her childhood idol in Lyndhurst basketball history.

There were a few times that Martin thought her dream was history.

“I thought the dream went out the window freshman year,” Martin said. “I didn’t score that much, but then I got a tooth knocked out.”

In a game against North

Bergen, Martin lost a tooth and had a gash that required 20 stitches after oral surgery.

Martin missed about 10 games that year.

“But I worked my butt off to come back,” Martin said.

“I wanted to be remembered as a 1,000-point scorer. There was no way I was not going to get it.”

But there was a pandemic to worry about and the schedule being condensed to just 15 games this season.

Martin had another bit of inspiration.

Her grandfather, Rich Ferruggia, was in failing health

when the basketball season began in January. Ferruggia knew that he was going to pass away, so he asked to have all of his grandchildren to see him to bid farewells. Ferruggia was battling pulmonary fibrosis and then contracted the coronavirus in November.

“He wanted to say goodbye,” Martin said. “I promised him I’d get it. I said, ‘I’ll do it for you, Poppy. I’ll do it for you.’”

When Martin scored the 1,000-point basket, her two best friends, Alexa Borino and Gianna Alberti, came onto the floor with balloons and a sign.

“Gianna said, ‘You know

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who’s watching? Poppy. You know how happy he was watching you.’” That was really special.”

Although the Golden Bears lost the thrilling game 58-54 to undefeated Secaucus, it was still a day to remember for Martin, who scored 20 points in the game.

“It was awesome,” Martin said. “All I wanted to do was to be remembered. My Dad told me when I was a freshman to see if I could get my name on the ball, so that when I come back to the school with my kids when I’m 35, I can show them what I did.”

Lyndhurst girls’ basketball coach Perrin Mosca was

happy for his senior guard.

“We were a little worried with the shortened season whether she’d get it,” said Mosca, who was also fortunate enough to coach Alonso eight years ago. “But Carley has been playing great lately.

She put a lot of work in. She had a goal in mind and she got it.”

Mosca said that he talked to his assistant coaches after the game.

“We all said, ‘What are we going to do without Carley?’”

Mosca said. “She’s the kind of player you get every once in a while.”

In this case, every eight years.

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VIEW

Continued from Page 9 who is in her senior year.”

Both Belleville and Kearny were decimated by graduation.

“We graduated 15 seniors,” Pizzi said. “We’re looking to rebuild a little. It’s impossible to find new wrestlers when we’re not in school. With newer kids in the program, we don’t have the time to go over details.

There’s not a lot of time to prepare them.”

The first match is scheduled for March 15. It means that the teams have two weeks of practice before they will compete.

“It’s almost a disservice to the kids,” Pizzi said. “It’s going to be hectic. It’s a little disheartening, because it’s hard to get kids interested in the sport. We have three matches a week beginning March 15. It’s going to be tough.

There won’t be much teaching.”

Sophomore Diego Viera has a chance to be one of the Buccaneers’ top performers. Viera will wrestle either at 152 or 160 pounds.

“We will make the most of it,” Pizzi said. “We’re not going to make excuses. We’ll be ready to roll.”

C ELEBRATING

Photos by Jim Hague

Belleville senior Alisa Safforld and Kearny senior Jacob Baeza.

Carratura is also working with basically a new lineup.

“We lost 10 seniors, eight of whom were starters,” Carratura said. “Those seniors were special kids, because I got to see them grow up from the (Kearny) Rec program. Now, they’re gone. I’m looking forward to this year to see how this team pans out. I told these kids that it is their time to shine with all the spots up for grabs.”

Carratura said that Kearny has an excellent feeder program.

“We have a good booster club,” Carratura said.

EYE

25

But the Booster Club took a hit when there was no Kearny Christmas Tournament this year, a tourney that used to bring as many as 12 different teams to Kearny.

Carratura said that he will not bemoan the change of the season or the lack of a full campaign.

“We always try to stay positive,” Carratura said. “We’re preparing for the worst, knowing we can get shut down in an instant.”

Carratura has an inkling of who will be in his lineup come March 15.

“I have a good idea,” Carratura said. “We know what kids

have been growing and getting better. It’s up to them to come into their own. Hopefully, things will go well for us.”

One of the key Kardinal grapplers is senior Jacob Baeza, who had to undergo knee surgery after last season.

“He’s coming along nicely,” Carratura said of Baeza. “He’s been able to compete a little bit.

We want him to get to 100 wins.

But we’re going in as one big uncertainty. We will hope for the best, but we just don’t know.

I’m worried about them shutting us down.”

Carratura is poised to start the season.

“The kids have the excitement, so that gets me excited,” Carratura said. “We have an excellent coaching staff and a good group of kids.”

Can’t ask for more than that.

So roll out the mats and get out the disinfectant to clean the mats rigorously. It’s wrestling season.

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Obituaries Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

Ginger Catena, 76, died Frank was the beloved huspeacefully surrounded by her band of the late Marie Caputo children on Feb. 20. 2021. (nee Engrassia). Cherished faFor 30 years, Ginger was the ther of Frank Caputo (Dorothy), devoted wife to John “Tweet” Philip Caputo (Margie), MiDeRay and raised their children chael Caputo (Kathy) and John in the town she loved, Kearny.

Caputo. He is also survived by She was a dedicated mother to his sister Rosemarie Loccke and Maryann D’Alessandro (John), brother Anthony Caputo. He Gina DeRay (Charles Raad) and was the loving grandfather of John DeRay (Christina). She 10 grandchildren and 16 greattreasured her children, her famgrandchildren. ily and her friends for whom In lieu of flowers, kindly she would do anything. consider a donation to St. Jude Ginger was a caring and supChildren’s Research Hospital. portive sister and is survived by her brothers Robert Catena ROBERT DIGNAZIO (Judy) and Thomas Catena.

Robert Dignazio, 88, of HarShe especially loved her rison died peacefully at home role as Nana to her precious surrounded by his loving family grandchildren Jack, Sophia and Sunday, Feb. 21, 2021.

Nicholas.

Private funeral services were Arrangements were by the conducted from the Mulligan Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Home, Kearny. Mass was Ave., Harrison. celebrated at St. Stephen’s If you would like to send a Church, Kearny. Burial was in condolence message to his famHoly Cross Cemetery, North ily, please visit www.mulliganfh.

Arlington. com.

In lieu of flowers, the family Born in Maple Shade, Robert asks that you please make donawas raised in Kearny and East tions in Ginger’s name to HosNewark, before settling in Harpital University Penn in support rison. He retired as a production of their research and in honor manager for L&R Manufacturof the incredibly loving and ing, Kearny, where he worked supportive care they provided for 20+ years. Prior to that, he Ginger with before, during, and was a supervisor for RCA in after her passing. Donations Harrison for 25 years. may also be made to St. SteHe served his country in the phen’s Church, where Ginger United States Army during the was a beloved parishioner.

Korean War as a Corporal.

To make a donation online Robert was an avid Giants for HUP, follow the link www. and horse racing fan. Even until pennmedicine.org/give, please his last days, he was a master choose Ronald Fairman Reat the nightly Jeopardy! game search Fund and indicate the show and daily challenging gift is being made in memory of crossword puzzles.

Virginia Catena. You may also Robert is survived by his bechoose to make checks payable loved wife of 65 years, Thelma to Trustees of the University (nee Davis); loving children of Pennsylvania, in memory of Donna (Ted) Davies, JoAnn Virginia Catena. Please send (James) Botch, late Robert (Rechecks to Jessie McCulley, Penn nee) Dignazio, Marianne (Dr. Medicine Development, 3535 Donald Rubenstein) and John Market St., Suite 750, Philadel(Cathryn) Dignazio; cherished phia, Pa. 19104. grandchildren Robert (Jessica), Nicole, James, John and GiFRANK P. CAPUTO anna; and he was predeceased Frank P. Caputo died Feb. 14, by eight siblings. He is also 2021. survived by his brother Richard He was 94.

(Barbara).

Born in Lyndhurst, he was a In lieu of flowers, the family lifelong resident of Kearny. requests donations to Camp of Arrangements were by the Fatima, P.O. Box 654, Harrison, Armitage & Wiggins Funeral N.J. 07029 or in care of the Home in Kearny. Burial was in

VIRGINIA ‘GINGER’ CATENA

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funeral home, in loving memory of Robert.

CHARLES ‘CHARLIE’ NOWICKI JR.

Charles “Charlie” Nowicki Jr., 57, of Smithville, Tennessee, died Monday, Feb. 8, 2021, at St. Thomas DeKalb Hospital.

He was born March 27, 1963 to his parents, the late Charles and Mary O’Connell Nowicki Sr. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Nowicki and granddaughter, Serenity Grace Nowicki.

He was a truck driver and a U.S. Army veteran.

Survivors include daughter Corrine (Jesse) Tollett, son Anthony (Tabitha) Nowicki, son Dylan Nowicki, daughter Brenda Reeder (Zach Thaxton) daughter Riki Reeder (Jarah Glenn), son Brandon Usselman and son Travis Usselman; 12 grandchildren, brother John R. Nowicki and sister Susan Nowicki.

The family has chosen a direct cremation. A Celebration of Life took place Friday, Feb. 26, 2021 at DeKalb Funeral Chapel with Military Honors by the Veterans Honor Guard.

DeKalb Funeral Chapel, Smithville, Tennessee, was is in charge.

JAMES M. MAITLAND

James M. Maitland, lawyer and bagpiper, died Feb. 21, 2021.

A resident of Cherry Hill, James was 78.

Jim loved life and learning about everything: music of every kind, science, technology, government, world affairs, history and countless other interests. He was the family storyteller and the unofficial historian of the Irish and Scottish heritage of the Maitland clan.

Jim was the son of Mary and Charles Maitland, immigrants to America from Ireland and Scotland, respectively. He grew up happily in North Arlington, and graduated from Rutgers University in Newark and from Rutgers Law School in Camden.

His legal career spanned 51 years in public and private practice, including 28 years with the New Jersey Judiciary as a hearing officer. He was valued

among his colleagues for his honesty, work ethic, and sense of humor.

Jim loved to play music and could often be found seated at the piano or behind a drum set.

Most notably, he was a bagpiper for 40 years and played with various organizations, but found his home with his beloved Greater Trenton Pipes and Drums.

Jim is survived by his wife of 51 years, Lorraine, his deeply loved children Ellen Garzon and Michael Maitland, his devoted son-in-law David Garzon, his future daughter-in-law

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

Daria Dieguts and his precious grandchildren, Louis and Kaela Garzon, who brought him more happiness than could ever be expressed in words.

He is also survived by his and Lorraine’s wonderful siblings and their spouses Janet and Bill Law, Charles and Mary Ann Maitland, Maureen and Charles Jacobson, Eleanor and Sam Ceasar, Alice and Rob Newton, and George and Barbara Dobosh. In addition, he is survived by a grand assortment of nieces and nephews and his lifelong See OBITS, Page 16

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By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com When the 2021 high school basketball season began in January, veteran Kearny High School head girls’ basketball coach Jody Hill was hopeful that her senior guard Esmeralda Ruiz could step into the role of being the Kardinals’ leader.

It wasn’t going to be an easy role to fill, considering that the responsibilities used to lie upon the head of Samantha Osorio, the Observer Female Athlete of the Year last year.

“Losing Sam was a big loss,” Ruiz said. “She did a lot for us.”

“Essie played in the shadows of Sam,” Hill said. “She really never

Photo by Jim Hague

Kearny senior guard Esmeralda Ruiz.

had the chance to be the go-to girl. I think she took it upon herself to be the team’s leader. She just waited for her opportunity.”

That was also the way of the world in the Ruiz home, where Esmeralda

was right smack in the middle of 12 children, one of whom is her current teammate Magdalena.

“Having my sister there always motivates Continued on next page

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We have the key.

TRACT UNDER CON

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, March 3, 2021

was always there for them.”

Hill knew that Ruiz had the personality to be the leader.

Continued from Page 11 “She’s always had this toughness in her,” Hill said. “I knew that the Ruiz me,” Esmeralda Ruiz said. “We always sisters were tough, growing up with played together in every sport, but she all those brothers. But Essie is like our was mostly my competition. I always best 3-point shooter. She’s tough to wanted to be ahead of her. It was alguard because she makes shots.” ways a good thing having company.”

Hill wanted Ruiz to become more It also helped having two older diverse in her game. brothers, Omar and Esteban, who were “I thought she was too one dimenathletes at Kearny High as well (playsional,” Hill said. “She was just shooting basketball and football), around as ing the three. She didn’t have the midwell. range jump shot. So she had to drive, “We always grew up around sports get to the lane, perhaps get fouled. and grew to love sports,” Esmeralda Now, she’s doing that and she’s become Ruiz said. “It’s just something we three dimensional.” always did. We went outside and chose And Ruiz has become extremely pick-up games. It was a big motivation consistent in doing so. for me to be there with my brothers. I Ruiz has reached double figures in always got to practice with my siblings. scoring in eight of the nine Kardinal It was a great thing for me.” games this season. Her seasonal best So when the current season began, was 23 in a clutch performance against and Osorio was off playing college defending Hudson County Tournabasketball at Moravian College, Ruiz ment champion Bayonne on Feb. 19. had to take command of the situation if Three days earlier, Ruiz tallied 20 the Kards were going to continue their points in a win over Ferris. winning ways.

In recent games, her consistency is “I liked the responsibility,” Ruiz said. astounding. She had 15 points in a win “I saw that it was my year to step up. I over Snyder, 15 in a loss to Union City, felt like I improved my game. I knew 15 in a win over St. Dominic Academy I could do anything and everything of Jersey City and 13 in a win over to help my team win. My confidence Hoboken. was really boosted up coming into this Her seasonal average? You guessed season as the team captain and leader. it, it’s 15.6 per game.

I wanted my teammates to know that I

ATHLETE

Hudson County will restrict vaccine portal to those 75+ this week only

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

T

he Hudson County Vaccine Distribution Center will prioritize vaccinating individuals who are over the age of 75 this week.

The move comes as part of a statewide effort to vaccinate New Jersey’s most vulnerable and at-risk populations.

Beginning this week, the vaccine appointment portal will only allow those who are 75+ to schedule a time to be vaccinated. In the event appointment slots go unfilled, the portal will be reopened for all other eligible Hudson County residents.

There were 327 residents 75+ who were already registered to be vaccinated on Monday, March 1, 25 of whom are over 90.

Those with second dose appointments will still be vaccinated as scheduled.

“Since beginning our vaccination

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efforts two months ago, we have remained committed to providing eligible residents in all corners of Hudson County with the opportunity to be vaccinated, especially those most at risk,” Hudson County Executive Thomas A. DeGise said. “In the coming days, we will be furthering our efforts to assist our most vulnerable residents and ensure that this life-saving vaccine is put into the arms of those who are most in need.”

County officials say they will be proactively contacting residents who are 75 or older and who have already registered on its system to fill vaccination slots for the week. All residents are encouraged to preregister for the COVID-19 vaccine by visiting hudsoncovidvax.org.

To date, the county-run site has administered 19,648 vaccinations, 12,997 first doses and 6,671 second doses.

This week, the center will administer 1,900 first doses and 1,790 second doses, representing 100% of its overall allocation from the state.

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

Hill likes the way Ruiz has become a complete player.

“She is also one of our top defenders,” Hill said. “She picks up charges, at least two a game. And she bounces right back up to her feet. She has a knack of doing it. She’s willing to sacrifice her body. When she picks up a charge, the team gets fired up.

She has quick feet as well. She’s come a long way to become a totally complete player. There’s nothing she can’t do. She’s a very unselfish player. She makes the good pass when she could have shot the ball.”

Hill also likes the attitude that Ruiz brings.

“She has that swag in her,” Hill said. “There’s nothing she is afraid of. She has that bounce about her.

She’s always been about her teammates first. She waited her time and now she’s coming of age. She’s the kind of kid who thrives on the pressure. When she gets hot, we have to get her the ball.”

Ruiz would love to play college basketball and she has some schools interested in securing her services.

When Ruiz makes her decision, she would like to major in physical education so she could become a gym teacher and eventually a coach.

For now, Ruiz will do her best as the leader of the Kardinals, a team that is enjoying a 7-2 campaign thus far.

Think you can’t refinance because values are down?

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KEARNY

HARRISON

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Single family, LIV. DIN, EIK. OFFICE, 3 BR, 2 FB, large backyard Asking $330,000

3 Family, 7 BR, 4 FB, LIV, KIT, shared driveway Asking $629,900

Single fam, LIV, DIN, EIK, 2 BR, 2 FB, finished attic & basement, backyard

NORTH ARLINGTON

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Single Fam, Foyer, LR, DR, KIT, 4 BR, 2 FB, FIN Basement, driveway, 1 car garage

Asking $369,900

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KEARNY UNDER CT CONTRA

Single fam, LIV, DIN, FAM RM, KIT, 3 BR, 2 FB, 2 HALF BATHS, finished basement, large driveway, detached garage

Asking $549,900

4 BR, 2 FB, LIV, DIN, MEIK, garage, one car driveway Asking $389,900

We have Rentals - Call Today!

758 Kearny Ave., Kearny, NJ 07032 • 201-991-0032

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OBITS

Continued from Page 13 friend Bob Finch.

In his high school yearbook, Jim was described as a gentleman and a scholar, and so he remained his entire life.

He was devoted to the law, to equal justice for all and to a decent and caring society. Due to COVID-19, a memorial service will be delayed until safer days, when

we may gather to enjoy Scottish cakes and hot tea, and listen to his band mates pipe him out in style.

Army and the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict.

Pat worked in security for the Atlantic Palace Hotel in Atlantic City PATRICK J HERRIRON before retiring three Patrick J Herriron, years ago. Earlier, he 93, died Friday, Feb. 26, worked for over 40 2021. years as a supervisor with NJ Bell in Newark.

Born in Newark and raised in Harrison, Pat He was a member attended Holy Cross and of the VFW in SomerSeton Hall Prep, later set and the Knights of moving to Egg Harbor Columbus, St. Katherine Twp. 20 years ago.

Drexel Chapter. in Egg He proudly served in Harbor Twp. both the United States Pat was the son of the

late William and Margaret (née Roddy) Herriron, and husband of Erma “Trudi” (nee Cohen); the father of Ann McCorkle; the grandfather and best friend of Andrew McCorkle; the father of Jody Feinberg and the late Perry Feinberg; the grandfather of Jake Feinberg and Mara Brown and her husband Scott; the great-grandfather of Zachary; the brother-in-law of Susan Klein and her husband Lonny, and Michele

TAX DAY IS THURSDAY, APRIL 15TH ARLINGTON TAX

1985 - Celebrating our 36th Anniversary - 2021 INCOME TAX & FINANCIAL SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS & SMALL BUSINESSES

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• Member of the National Society of Accountants • The National Society of Tax Professionals • The NJ and National Society of Enrolled Agents • Enrolled to practice before the IRS

WE WELCOME NEW CLIENTS!

BAntonelli@ArlingtonTax.com • www.arlingtontax.com

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201-991-8888

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

20 YEARS EXPERIENCE! Jose Fernandez | Sandra Castro

201-340-4376 290 Stuyvesant Ave • Lyndhurst, NJ

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

Tax Preparation • Financial Planning Budgeting • Bookkeeping

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

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

Deonysios Kalevas CPA, P.C.

Income Tax Preparation

• Personal • Corporate • Reliable & Professional Service 230 Belleville Tpke. Kearny, N.J. Ph: 201-991-8470 Ask for Dennis

Fax 201-991-8471

Wednesday, March 3, 2021 Rabinowitz and her wife Linda Detwiler; the twin brother of the late James P Herriron aka “Cherrybomb,” brother of the late Mary Ann (Mae) McDonald, and the beloved cousin of Laura Comppen, Ruby and Carson Rodrigues and Ann Weston.

He was a member of the Holy Name Society and served as an usher in Queen of Peace Church, North Arlington.

Raymond was the beloved husband of Rose (nee Langhirt); the devoted father of Rosemary Hislop, Nancy Hislop Miller PATRICIA THOMPSON and her husband David Patricia Thompson J., Raymond Hislop, died Feb. 25, 2021.

James Michael Hislop, She was 78.

Christine Hartigan and Born in Kearny, she her husband Dennis and lived most of her life Michael Hislop and his there before moving to wife Teri; the cherished Nutley. grandfather of Nathan Patricia worked as Miller and his wife Ann, a mortgage underDavid H. Miller and writer for many years his wife Rediet Abebe; for American Bank in Christy Miller and her Bloomfield. husband Mike, Alyssa Funeral services were Hartigan, Michael private and in the care Hislop and his wife of the Armitage & WigNeona Cho, and Ginny gins Funeral Home in Rock and her husband Kearny.

Bryan; the doting greatPatricia was the grandfather of Amelia beloved wife of George Sarah Miller; and the Thompson. She was dear brother of the late the loving mother of David, John, Walter and Michael (Beata), George Helen Hislop.

Jr., Barbara (Mark Ray was devoted to Spain), Robert (Laura) the love of his life, his and Mark (Dana). She Rose, his bride of 72 was the sister of Eileen, years, and was always Kathy, Gail and the available and commitlate Joan. She was the ted to his family. He cherished grandmother was known for seeing to Danielle, Amanda, the good in people. Ray Andrew, Emily, Sarah, enjoyed Sunday lunches Erik and George III and and fishing trips with great-grandmother to his brothers. He relished Adryan. vacations in Wildwood In lieu of flowers, with his family, enjoyed kindly consider a dona- every sunset, spent as tion to Pathways to much time as possible Independence. traveling and cruising, loved being outdoors RAYMOND R. HISLOP whether walking or Raymond R. Hislop, enjoying nature. He was 97, died Friday, Feb. 26, a skilled gardener learn2021. ing from his beloved Born in Jersey City, mother. he was raised in North Ray will be rememArlington, lived in Lynd- bered by his family for hurst for nine years behis wisdom in knowing fore returning to North that loving and beArlington 58 years ago. ing loved are the most He proudly served in important parts of our the United States Army lives. during World War II On Monday, March and was a member of 1, 2021, a funeral Mass the VFW in North Arwas celebrated at St. lington.

Michael’s Church in He worked 46 years Lyndhurst with burial for Fidelity Union Trust in Holy Cross Cemetery, Company in Newark, North Arlington. retiring in 1988 as a The Parow Funeral branch manager and Home, North Arlington, vice president. was in charge.

Wednesday, March 3, 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

Electrical Subcode Official Full Time. Under direction of the Construction Official, has the subordinate administrative responsibility for administering the electrical Subcode of the State Uniform Construction Code within the Town of Kearny, and inspects the electrical work in construction projects underway to ensure that compliance with plans and specifications approved in accord with the State Uniform Construction Code is achieved; does other related duties such as property maintenance, zoning and code enforcement.

HHS license and valid NJ driver’s license required.

Salary Range 78,002-87,459 Application Deadline is 4/1/2021 Position is provisional and subject to Civil Service exam https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 43W03

Workers Needed Trabajadores Necesarios For order packaging jobs and other factory work email jobs@randallmanufacturing.com or call 973-484-7600 and mention the ad you saw in the observer and you are looking for work.

Wages start at $14/hr M-F 8:30-5.

Sick and holiday pay included.

43W03

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

CLERK

Ladies needed for house cleaning. full time Monday - Friday own transportation. preferable that live in Harrison or Kearny (908)917-9192 ask for Caty.

Full Time Temporary position to perform various office duties.

Computer experience required, experience fulfilling OPRA requests a plus. Salary 34, 214 Application Deadline 4/1/2021 https://www.kearnynj. org/job-opportunities/

41W03

43W03

Shipping , Receiving and Customer Service representative to answer phones, emails, scan, process orders and sign drivers out. Located in Kearny. Health benefits upon completion of vesting period.

Please email resume to Fulvia@hanoverwhse.com or call 973-589-7387

FULL TIME hydraulic mechanic wanted. Mechanical experience preferred.

Driver’s license, reliable transportation, and resume required.

Call for appointment 201.438.7800 Ask for Kathy or Dave 42W03

43W03

Full time Certified Medical Assistant for a busy ENT practice 1 year experience Front desk work and assisting in rooms with in office procedures.

Allergy testing and Covid testing Strong verbal and written communication skills Friendly and compassionate disposition Spanish a must Please send resume to: entcenterofnj.anam@gmail.com

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

BELLEVILLE

HARRISON

KEARNY

KEARNY

BELLEVILLE 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

HARRISON 1st floor.

Newly renovated. 3 BR. 1 Bath. LR. EIK. CA/Heat.

Coin operated laundry in basement. $1900 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Smoking.

Available Now (551)3589353 42W03

KEARNY First floor. 2 BR. LR. EIK. Near TRANS/ School and shopping. $1450 + 1 months security. Utilities not included.

No Pets/Smoking. Avail Now. (347)735-3299

KEARNY 3 LG ROOMS (1 BEDROOM) IN WELL MAINTAINED BUILDING AT 111-117 BELGROVE DRIVE. $1,325/ MTH INCLUDING HEAT/HOT WATER. LAUNDRY ROOM. NO PETS.(973)493-7868

42W03

BELLEVILLE 1 Bedroom garden apartment on Garden Avenue. H/HW included, laundry facilities on site, 1 parking space.

Nice location. No Pets. $1,200/mth rent plus 1.5 month security. Please call (973)699-3146 42W03

HARRISON 2 Bedroom, Kitchen, LR, 2nd Floor Utilities Seperate. $1,600/mth 1 1/2 mth security. Call or Text after 2 pm couple preferred.

Walk to PATH. Call 973900-0486 42W03

43W03

WORLDWIDE FLIGHT SERVICES TWU Ramp Service Clerk open position $16.20/h. Open availability- part time Valid DL-non probationary Apply at WFS.aero/careers or call 973-804-2825 43W03

CHIEF REGISTERED ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST, PUBLIC HEALTH.

Full time Chief Registered Environmental Health Specialist, Public Health needed in the Town of Kearny. Health Department seeking a highly qualified and motivated leader who possesses strong managerial and interpersonal communication skills.

Under direction, manages the Registered Environmental Health Specialist, Public Health program and staff involved in the enforcement of relevant public health laws within the concerned jurisdiction; conducts inspections, investigations, and educational outreach activities; performs other related duties as required.

35 hours per week, salary depending upon qualifications.

See application, job description here https://www. kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 43W03

Shipping/ Receiving Clerk Full Time.

Knowledge in Word&Excel–Will be tested. Hours are 7:30am – 4:00pm Monday – Friday. Must be fluent in English Excellent Benefits, Paid Vacation & Holidays, Health & Dental Insurance, Profit Sharing. Please email resume to anabela@ gstechnologies.com, mike@gstechnologies.com. G&S Motor Equipment Co. 1800 Harrison Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032 201-998-9244

HARRISON

WAREHOUSE WORKERS

Apply in person: Kearny, NJ, 07032 43W03

Need a classified that caught your eye a week ago? Threw away your newspaper already? Don’t worry — our e-Newspapers are all online and date back to 2014. Visit www.theobserver.com

QUALITY HELP WANTED We are looking for an experienced light duty flatbed driver who has a professional appearance.

The applicant should have good people skills. Bilingual (Spanish) is a plus.

We offer: Uniform Service 401(k) Retirement Plan Paid Vacation Paid Holidays Paid Sick Days A Clean Working Environment Starting salary $18.00 per hour If you are looking for a great starting point for a career with a quality company please call Nick at 201-954-1933 between 9 am and 4 pm.

42W03

HARRISON Clear/bright/ spacious.3BR. 3Bath, Modern EIK, C/A. Provide fridge, microwave, washer and dryer. One Parking Space. Available now. Call (718)737-4402 41W03

260 Schuyler Ave

41W03

SERVICES OFFERED PET CARE

BY BARBARA No Need to Worry Dog walking Cat sitting Drop in Visits - Other small pets.

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

Call for consultation References on request (954) 856-5812 41W04

HARRISON 1st fl. 1 BR. LR. EIK. $950 + 1.5 Months security. Utilities separate. Good for single person or couple. no smoking/pets. excellent neighborhood. Limited backyard use. April 15th.

Background check(954) 448-3339 42W03

HARRISON Newly Renovated 1st FL 2 BRS, LR, EIK, BATH. Central AC/Heat, $1650 + 1.5 Month Security.

Separate Utilities.

No Pet/Smoking.

AVAILABLE NOW. Call 973-462-5280.

41W03

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.

ALL CLASSIFIED ADS MUST BE PRE-PAID Deadline for Classifieds Employment/ Business Monday 12:00 PM All others Monday by 3:00 PM. E-mail Ads to classified@theobserver. com.

KEARNY KEARNY Renovated 1 BR. $1200 + 1.5 months security. Utilities included. No Pets/smoking.

Available March 1st Text (201)888-5477 41W03

HARRISON Sussex St. 2nd fl. 2 BR, Large Living room. Walk to PATH & NJIT. $1,750 + 1.5 months security. Utilities Separate, Parking $50.00 KEARNY 2 bedrooms, Avl. April 1st (973) 687- Utilities Seperate. Proximity to PATH and bus 7500 43W03 lines Available March 1st.

No Pets No Smoking.

(201)889-3118 41W03 HARRISON 2nd floor. 2 BRs. EIK. LR. 1 Bath. New Kitchen appliances. H/W floors, $1,400 + 1 month security. Utilities separate. 1 yr. lease. No pets/ smoking. Avl. April 1st (973) 207-5229 43W03

KEARNY 2 BR’s, LR, Kitchen, on Kearny Ave. $1,250 + 1.5 months security.Separate utilities.

No pets. Avl. April 1st.

(201) 893-1955 42W03

41W03

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

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.

42W03

KEARNY 1 & 2 BR APT. HT/HW included. $1,250 to $1650 + 1.5 Months security. See Super, 6 Woodland Ave.Kearny Apt. 1 (201)892-8035 for appointment.

43W03

KEARNY First floor, 2 BR, LR, Formal DR, Ultra Modern Kitchen, Modern Ceramic Tile Bath, Parking Available Not included. CLOSE TO NYC Trans. $1,775.00/mth PLUS 1.5 mth security. Call (201)906-5153 43W03 KEARNY LR. Modern EIK. BR. $1,275 + 1.5 months security. H/HW included. close to all TRANS. Call (201)906-5153 41W03

LYNDHURST

LYNDHURST 2nd floor.

Very large 1 BR. 4 closets. $1495 + 1.5 months security. No Pets/smoking.

42W03 Off street parking. Close to NYC Transportation.

KEARNY Arlington Sec- (973)760-4877 42W03 tion. Large modern 3BD, 2 full baths LR DR large LYNDHURST Cozy Two EIK. Central A/C. Ac- room Studio recently cess to laundry room painted & clean w/ amW/D hook up, 1 parking ple closet space in a prispace on driveway, 1st vate home walk to bus & floor. Utilities included. trains Incl all utilities & No pets. No smoking. street park & no laundry & Asking $2,450/month. 1 Prefer single professional 1/2 month security. Must non smoker! Ask $1100 see. Avl now Contact, text one month sec w/ credit or voicemail. (201) 725- check & employee verification Available March 5116 41W03 15th please call 201-3558175 43W03 KEARNY 726 Elm St Lg one bed LYNDHURST 1 bedroom apt HW floors, H&HW supplied $1,145.00 call on 2nd floor, H/HW included. Small pets OK. Chris 201-370-8378 $1,220/mth plus 1 mth KEARNY 748 Devon St 1bed rm security. Available Now. apt. H/W floors H&HW (201)575-5270 42W03 supplied $1,080.00 call Jessica 201-600-9090 Fee required N.ARLINGTON 42W03

KEARNY 6 family home, Newly Renovated. 2ND fl.

2 BR, $1,300/month, HT included. 1 1/2 months security. No pets. No Smoking Avl. Now. (201) 916-9460 42W03

N.ARLINGTON Newly renovated. 2nd floor. 3 BR. $1850 + 1 months security. No pets/smoking.

Close to Transportation.

Available March 1st. Call (201)997-3050 41W03

KEARNY 2nd floor 3 BR. LR. EIK. $2000 + 1 Months security. Heat included. Laundry room in basement. No Pets/ Smoking. Available March 1st (201)790-3032 43W03

N.ARLINGTON 2nd Floor, 2 Bedroom 1 Bath LR, EIK Smoke Free Apartment. Utilities Seperate. $1,550/month + 1 Month Security. Available March 1st. 201-9525383 41W03

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The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, March 3, 2021

Observer Classifieds

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

24

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2015

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

N.ARLINGTON

HARRISON

N.ARLINGTON 2ND Floor. 1 BR, EIK LR, Bathroom. $1300 +1 months security. Heat/HW included. Available March 1st Call Carlos (201)9887536 41W03 N.ARLINGTON 1st Fl. 4 rooms.

1 BR, With yard. Quite. neighborhood. near Transportation. $1300 + Plus utilities.

1.5 months security. No smoking.

One year lease. Credit check. Available Now (973)838-1662

HARRISON 1st floor. Single room, use of kitchen. $500 + 1.5 months security. Female preferred.

Available now (570)6565850 Please call or text 42W03

PLUMBING & HEATING

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN

ROOFING/SIDING

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

Mario Esposito’s Landscaping LLC

PAYLESS ROOFING

JOSEPH V. FERRIERO Plumbing & Heating

KEARNY KEARNY Nice and Clean $600 + 1 mth security.

Utilities, Cable & internet included. Avl. March 1st (201) 279-9966 42W03

Kitchen and bath remodeling. Carpentry.

Hot Water Heaters.

Fully Ins. Lic# 165

(201)637-1775 42W06

KEARNY Utilities, Internet included. Available Now. Leave message (201) 898-3527 43W03

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

KEARNY

N.ARLINGTON 1st. Fl. 2 BR’s, H/W Floors, Walking distance to schools & Supermarket, all public transportation and NY bus. Available March 1st (201) 657-2119 43W03

KEARNY Newly renovated.

Located in the center of town. Private room, share bath & shower. $650 + 1.5 months security. Utilities included.

No Pets/Smoking. Men preferred (201)906-6846 40W04

SPACE FOR RENT

KEARNY

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 42W03

N.ARLINGTON Luxury apartment.

1 BR with Den/Office options. $1,900/mth Utilities Seperate All New Stainless steel appliances Modern Kitchen. Parking for 1 car per unit.

Laundry on premise.

No pets/Smoking Close to transportation.

Call for further details!

(201)997-2341 Call between 10am-7pm 42W03

We offer a variety of electrical services & promise your satisfaction with our work.

(973)661-2100 Lic# 15502 40W06

FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT

PEST CONTROL

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT NORTH ARLINGTON RIDGE ROAD OFFICE 3 Room suite. Parking available $850 + utilities.

Great Space. Owner (201)509-6965 43W03

HOME IMPROVEMENT

LACA CORP

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

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 42W06

PEST CONTROL Exterminating Fast Service • Roaches • Ants • Bed Bugs • Fleas Call 973-932-2092 Licensed and Insured 40W06

RUBBISH REMOVAL A-1 AFFORDABLE

Professional space RUBBISH REMOVAL Attics, Basements, on Kearny Ave. Yard Cleaning. We 1 1/2 months Haul or You Can security. 900 sq.ft.

Rent 10-15 Cubic Proximity to PATH & Yard Containers.

Bus lines.

We Accept Avl March 1st.

Visa/MasterCard (201) 998-1262 (201) 889-3118 41W03

41W04

05W52

42W06

N.ARLINGTON 1 bedroom (3 room apt.) for rent in garden apt building. New kitchen, hardwood floors, plenty of closet space, laundry facilities on premises, off street parking. No fee.

Call super at: 862-2378661 42W03

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shin. The officers eventually got the actor into a holding cell at the police station where he regaled them with an encore of urinating onto the floor.

Jimenez-Masache was charged with aggravated assault and resisting arrest.

He was ticketed for DWI, parking in front of a driveway and public urination (town ordinance).

And after all this, he was later released to a friend.

On Feb.21 at 7:21 a.m., Officers Sean Kelly and John Fearon were sent to Schuyler Avenue and Dukes Street to investigate a report of a man passed out behind the wheel of a car that had crashed into a snow bank.

There. they found a Chevy Cruze crashed into a snow bank near the northbound lane of travel. The transmission was still in drive and the driver, Franklin L. Luna, 35, of High Bridge, was allegedly asleep in the driver’s seat.

The officer were unable to wake Luna by yelling and banging on the windows.

Officer Kelly slid a vehicle lockout tool, with which he was unable to unlock the vehicle, through the door crack and poked Luna until he awoke.

The officers yelled at the awakening Luna to put his car in park, and luckily, after a few moments of apparent confusion, he listened. Inside the car, officers found beer and marijuana.

When Luna was unable to pass a bat-

tery of field-sobriety tests, he was arrested and charged with DWI. Unfortunately, while being processed, Luna allegedly became aggressive and threatening toward the officers and claimed he was improperly arrested.

When Luna was un-handcuffed at the police station to facilitate fingerprinting, his behavior devolved into a full-blown fist fight with Officer Kelly.

When Officer Medina intervened, Luna reportedly kicked him and continued to fight. With the assistance of Capt. Paul Bershefski and Lt. Brian Wisely, Luna was carried to a holding cell, but not before kicking Officer Medina a second time.

Luna was charged on a summons with aggravated assault, obstructing the administration of law, possession of marijuana (missed it by a day!) and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Traffic summonses were issued to Luna for DWI, refusal to submit to breath testing, DWI in a school zone, operating a vehicle while in possession of CDS, reckless driving, improper driving on a sidewalk, failure to maintain lane, improper safety glass (tints) and failure to possess proof of registration and insurance.

After all of this, Luna was later released to a family member.

Wednesday, March 3, 2021

BANNERS Continued from Page 3 pandemic, the likes this nation hadn’t seen in over a century.

So it was postponed. And rolled out in July for September display.

“I had said I hoped we’d get at least 30,” Bocchino says. “We got around 80.”

The banners were proudly displayed from around Labor Day in September until just following Veterans Day, Nov. 11. Because the display was truncated, those who got the 2020 banners were promised they’d be up again in 2021 -- as they will be -- in addition to anyone else who chooses to buy one for the new season of display.

They’ll be up for Memorial Day -- where Bocchino says she hopes there will be a parade in 2021, unlike last year -- and they’ll remain on display at least through the 4th of July, perhaps longer.

Once the display is over, the banners will be given to their sponsors as a keepsake. And then the process will start over, again, in 2022.

For those who might want to sponsor a banner, but who have no one in the family who was in the military, Bocchino will be able to match those people up with someone who wants to have a loved one

The Observer | www.theobserver.com memorialized on a banner, but who mightn’t be able to afford the $150 cost.

Anyone may sponsor the banners, for that matter.

REMEMBERING ‘PETE THE MARINE’ Bocchino recalls Peter Patti, known affectionately as “Pete the Marine,” a longtime North Arlington resident. Pete loved NA, loved the Marines, and Bocchino and Pronti wanted to include him with the banner program in 2020.

Last summer, Bocchino went to Pete’s apartment, and the local GOP club sponsored his banner. She gathered his military photo and other pertinent information.

“He was crying,” Bocchino recalls.

When the banners were ready, the borough’s Department of Public Works hung Pete’s banner right in front of his apartment building on Ridge Road.

“It was just incredible,” Bocchino, seen with Pete in a photo under his banner, says.

Unfortunately, just weeks thereafter, Pete died from complications caused by COVID-19.

As such, in 2021, Pete’s banner will be displayed prominently in front of Borough Hall as a fine tribute to a fine man who sacrificed so much.

And that’s what this program is all about -- hon-

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oring as many as possible, with a North Arlington connection, who have served (those living and deceased) and those current in service anywhere in the world.

In 2020, it brought such joy to a community reeling from a pandemic.

And it’s hoped the same will happen this year.

And, after NA’s displays of 2020, officials in East Rutherford and Lyndhurst have contacted Bocchino

for help on developing similar programs.

“I hope we eventually shoot all the way up Ridge Road,” Bocchino says.

And if the reception in 2021 is anywhere near what it was last year, it may as well go from Ridge Road to Kearny Avenue to Frank E. Rodgers Boulevard and beyond.

Interested in a banner for someone you know?

Want to sponsor one?

Visit www.northarlington.

19

org. Scroll down and click on Military Banner Tribute Banner and follow the instructions therein. You may also visit www.militarytributebanners.org and then click on “Current Programs -- North Arlington.” For additional details, send Bocchino an email at dbocchino@ northarlington.org. The deadline for competing banners is April 1, so don’t delay -- check it all out today.

North Arlington Public Schools – Kindergarten Registration (2021-2022) Parents of incoming kindergarten students should visit www.navikings.org to complete the online registration process beginning March 8, 2021.

Escuelas Públicas del Norte de Arlington Registro de jardín de infantes (2021-2022) Los padres de los estudiantes que ingresan al jardín de infantes deben visitar www.navikings.org para completar el proceso de inscripción en línea a partir del 8 de marzo de 2021.

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