e-Newspaper for June 9, 2021

Wednesday, 9 June 2021

www.TheObserver.com

Vol. CXXXIV, No. 5

ON THE INSIDE Transgender athlete at Belleville High School sets the way for others See Page 9

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

Nutley singer remains optimistic while facing an impossible future

Jerry Tolve belts out stirring anthem at Yankee Stadium as he battles ALS

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

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week ago, he was singing the “Star Spangled Banner” at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. Sure, sure, he’s sung the anthem before at pro sporting events before — including for the New Jersey Devils and the team once known as the New Jersey Nets.

But this.

This was different.

This was a bucket-list item for Nutley’s Jerry Tolve.

And it all happened by fate (and we’ll get back to how it went down later.)

But there he was, on the Jumbotron, for every one of the 13,824 fans who were lucky enough to get into the House that Steinbrenner Built. Because of pandemic rules still in play, the size of the crowd was limited to 29% capacity.

It was June 2, 2021. Major League Baseball teams across the country were hosting Lou Gehrig Night. And as luck would have it, the Yankees got a 4-3 win over the dreaded Tampa Bay Rays to top it all off.

Yet it was extra special, wasn’t it, considering Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is also known as Lou Gehrig’s

Disease. And, just across the street, where the original Yankee Stadium once stood, Gehrig delivered one of the most iconic speeches in sports history — perhaps in modern American history, period — when he said he considered “myself, the luckiest man on the face of the earth” on July 4, 1939, having learned he was going to die.

Gehrig was only 37 when lost his life June 2, 1941, less two years after he delivered the stunning farewell.

There he was. A Nutley guy.

A man who has accomplished so much as a singer. A guy who has belted out tunes on stage with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston and countless other household names. This was something special. It was an item for Tolve, as he acknowledged, to check off his bucket list.

And though you might not have been able to notice from the video of his anthem rendition that was pre-recorded since non-players weren’t allowed on the field that early June night — thanks again, COVID-19 — Tolve, whose singing could make the late Stadium Anthem staple Robert Merrill jealous, has something

Clockwise, from top, a screencap of Tolve singing the anthem at Yankee Stadium. Then, Tolve and some friends at Yankee Stadium during the game. Finally, Tolve with dear friend Carla Virola.

See TOLVE, Page 15

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Wednesday, June 9, 2021

Belleville launches GovPilot program for problems

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com Have you ever had to report a tree that has fallen into a road? Is there an issue with a fire hydrant on your street? Do you have some questions about garbage pickup? What about that pothole on your block?

If you’ve answered “yes” to any of these questions — and it’s likely you did so answer — you already know what a hassle it can be. But the Township of Belleville is making it a lot easier for residents to make this kinds of reports, thanks to a new cloud-based platform.

The system is being implemented by the township and is accessible on its website — and it will make getting answers to these and dozens of other common questions easier and quicker than ever.

GovPilot software allows residents to go to www. bellevillenj.org to choose from a list of possible issues and concerns.

From the removal of hornets’ nests to the removal of snow, residents simply need to click on the “Report a Concern” tab and follow the simple directions that will guide them through the process.

201.991.4165

There are even spaces to add additional comments and to upload photos, if they’re warranted.

The information is transferred to town hall in real time after pressing the submit button.

“This platform allows Belleville workers to respond quickly and efficiently to a number of problems,” Township Manager Anthony Iacono said. “I am very confident this is going to increase productivity and accountability inside town hall and help us best serve the residents of Belleville.”

Iacono said the new

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platform will become popular with residents because it alleviates some of the guesswork that comes with reporting problems.

“We have created a tab for residents to report an animal carcass in the road,” Iacono said. “That’s an unfortunate issue that crops up from time to time.

Previously, residents might not have known who to call about that issue. Does that fall to the department of public works? The police department? A different department? With GovPilot, all correspondence is quickly filtered to the appropriate department.

No more will residents have to call town hall and be transferred to the appropriate department.”

Dozens of municipalities have begun to implement

this governmentmanagement platform since Hoboken-based GovPilot rolled out this software as a service in 2014. It was created to assist municipalities such as Belleville that can at any moment be inundated with, say, Open Public Records Act requests.

GovPilot allows towns such as Belleville to provide constituent services such as public record requests, inspections, licensing, tax assessment, public works and more in a secure, digital environment.

“We are always searching for new and better ways to serve our residents,” Councilman Vincent Cozzarelli said. “We think GovPilot is going to go a long way in doing that.”

Knights hosting takeaway BBQ Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus sponsor a takeout Tuesday BBQ to kick off the summer Tuesday, June 22, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

The Knights will serve a choice of two hot dogs or two hamburgers or two cheeseburgers (or a combo of any two) fresh off the

grill, plus corn-on-the-cob, potato and macaroni salad, a pickle and dessert.

The cost is $15 per adult and $10 for children.

The deadline for making reservations is Friday, June 18.

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Wednesday, June 9, 2021

BHS remembers Medal of Honor soldiers buried locally

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

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s is usually the case, it was a busy time at and around Memorial Day in Belleville.

In preparation for the day, the Belleville Historical Society placed American flags at graves of Belleville young men killed in action located at several local cemeteries.

In addition, the society, which is a member of the Medal of Honor Historical Society, also set additional flags at graves of soldiers awarded the Medal of Honor.

There are three Medal of Honor soldiers buried locally, according to the society.

World War II Army Lt. Steven Gregg is buried at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington, while Civil War Navy Capt. James McIntosh is interred at Arlington Cemetery in Kearny and World War I Lt. Patrick Regan rests in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Bloomfield.

Lt. Regan was one of the original pallbearers for the Unknown Soldier. When the body of the Unknown Soldier was returned to the United States from France on Armistice Day, nearly a century ago, Nov. 11, 1921, 10 soldiers who had been awarded the Medal of Honor were selected to serve as

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pallbearers.

The 10 marched alongside as the Unknown Soldier made the journey to the newly built tomb in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

According to Lt. Regan’s Medal of Honor Citation, “On Oct. 8, 1918, although severely wounded, Lt. Regan dashed, with an empty pistol, toward an enemy machine gun nest, capturing 30 Austrian gunners and four machine guns.”

Two other medal recipients from Belleville are also memorialized locally, Perrone said.

World War I Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Fred Stockham is buried in Union, but a monument in his honor was built by the Belleville Historical Society in his memory in St. Peter’s Church’s cemetery in Belleville where he was a parishioner.

Korean War Army honoree Henry Svehla is memorialized in the Belleville Veterans Park. Svehla’s remains, however, were never recovered.

Additionally, Mayor Michael Melham, Councilwoman Naomy DePena and other members of the Belleville Town Council took part in ceremonies around the town on Memorial Day itself.

Belleville Historical Society Vice President Tom Grolimond, left, and President Michael Perrone visit the grave of Lt. Patrick Regan at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Bloomfield. The Medal of Honor recipient was one of the original pallbearers for the Unknown Soldier nearly 100 years ago.

BHS NEWS

Local election results will be available after 9 p.m., Tuesday, June 8, @ facebook.theobserver.com.

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

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

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

Classifieds .......................................................................Pages 16-18

Health & Wellness Directory...............................................Page 12

Business Directory.................................................................Page 18

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Wednesday, June 9, 2021

KPD: teacher, kids threatened by 2 teens

By Capt. Tim Wagner Kearny Police Department

On May 27 at 1:27 p.m., Officer Sean Podolski responded to the Hudson Arts & Sciences Charter School at 114 Chestnut St. where a faculty member reported threats she received. The teacher reported she was walking back from a field day at West Hudson Park with her class when a girl and boy — who are not students at the school — approached one of her students and attempted to instigate a fight.

When the initial affray was quelled, the boy and girl reportedly followed the class on foot, yelling threats of assault at the teacher. Before parting ways, the two allegedly threatened to shoot the students and teacher and then the whole school.

Officer Mat Lopez located the two juveniles on Dukes Street, who were later identified as a 17-year-old

Kearny girl and a 16-year-old Harrison boy. Officer Lopez found the two in possession of two knives and took them into custody. The teacher declined to give a formal statement in support of additional criminal charges, so the teens were each charged on juvenile delinquency complaints with unlawful possession of a weapon and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.

A court juvenile intake officer later ordered the pair released into the custody of guardians.

On May 27 at 2:29 p.m., Det. Mike Andrews observed Jose Sanchez, 24, of Kearny, at the Walgreens at 248 Kearny Ave. and suspected him of shoplifting. Det. Andrews approached Sanchez and spoke with him about his observations. In doing so, the detective developed cause to arrest Sanchez for shoplifting, but when told he was not free to leave, Sanchez allegedly

POLICE BEAT hopped on his bicycle and peddled off.

Officer Andre Fernandes began following Sanchez in a police vehicle for blocks while Sanchez continued peddling.

Det. Andrews intercepted Sanchez at the Clay Street Bridge in East Newark and tried to pull him off the bicycle.

As Sanchez struggled to free his arm from the detective’s grasp, Andrews sprayed him with pepper spray, which assisted in bringing Sanchez under arrest.

Det. Andrews recovered from Sanchez’s backpack $104.28 of Dove soaps, which Walgreens management confirmed were stolen from their store. Sanchez was charged by summons with shoplifting, obstructing the administration of law and

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resisting arrest by flight. He was released at Clara Maass Medical Center, Belleville, where he received treatment for pepper spray exposure.

On May 31 at 2:59 p.m., Officer Anthony Nunez was dispatched to a call of a suspicious incident at a Devon Street home. Upon entering the house and seeing it in disarray, Officer Nunez was told 18-year-old resident Christopher A. Canjani was hiding in the basement, and he was acting out and could not be controlled after allegedly punching someone and breaking up the house.

Officer Nunez located Canjani, who had moved to his bedroom. Although it was reported Canjani initially kept telling the officer to “get the [f ] out of my house,” Officer Nunez eventually established a dialogue, thereafter learning Canjani had an 8-inch kitchen knife concealed in his sweatshirt pocket.

Officer Nunez arrested Canjani without incident on the charges of unlawful possession of a weapon and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. Witnesses declined to cooperate in the filing of any additional charges.

Canjani was released on summonses to a local hospital.

On June 1 at 9:19 p.m., Dets. Mike Andrews, Dave Bush and Tim Castle watched Michael Guedes, 46, of Kearny, approach a black Honda sedan parked on the corner of Kearny and Wilson avenues. They watched Guedes allegedly hand cash to the driver of the Honda through its window and receive a small item in return. The Honda then made a U-turn and drove away.

While Guedes was walking away, detectives saw him drop and then pick up the item he just bought, which they now believed was drugs. The detectives approached Guedes on foot and learned the item was a Ziploc bag of cocaine.

The Honda driver got away (… for now).

Guedes was charged with possession of cocaine and drug paraphernalia. He was later released with a summons.

On June 2 at 10:26 a.m., several officers responded to the U.S. Postal Service Priority

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Mail Center at 1200 Harrison Ave. on a report of a potential robbery or fight in progress.

Officer Christos Manolis learned a 24-year-old postal employee had been on break in the parking lot when she was confronted by two women who punched her in the head and then pepper sprayed her face.

It is believed the women may have been acquainted with a second postal employee who was not directly involved in the incident.

After the assault, one of the assailants allegedly picked up the victim’s iPhone off the ground and took it with her while fleeing across the street to the Walmart parking lot. Officers Sean Kelly and Esteban Gonzalez found the two assailants in the Walmart lot, one on foot and the other inside an unregistered Chrysler 200 that displayed a fictitious Texas temporary tag.

Samantha Fitch, 27, of Brooklyn, was inside the car and refused both to show Officer Kelly her hands and to exit the car. Fitch had to be pulled out of the car by Officers Kelly and Christian Medina in order to be arrested.

Fitch, who initially identified herself to police as a different person, was charged by summons with obstructing the administration of law, hindering apprehension, resisting arrest, aggravated assault, theft of moveable property and conspiracy.

Officer Gonzalez found Claudine C. Jones, 36, of Newark, in the Walmart parking lot standing behind a shopping cart and talking on her phone. She matched the description he was given of a woman wearing a white shirt and shower cap with the tattoo “Hater” decorating her back.

Officer Gonzalez arrested Jones without incident and charged her by summons with theft, conspiracy, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and aggravated assault.

Both women were later released, pending their first court appearance. The owner of the Chrysler was issued summonses for having an unregistered vehicle and for it displaying a fictitious plate.

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

Nicolle Santos, 8, teaches life lessons we could all learn from

Reward offered in Nutley hit & run that killed Lyndhurst woman

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By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com Readers of this newspaper may remember one of our favorite humans, Nicolle Santos, 8, of Kearny, who has Down syndrome. We’ve featured her photos when they’re shown on big screens for Down syndrome awareness in Times Square.

Well, during the month of March, to celebrate Down Syndrome Day, her family launched a campaign to sell graphic T-shirts that had a drawing of butterflies made by Nicolle on them. They were made by a fashion entrepreneur.

The shirts were sold throughout Brazil, but some were also brought to the United States to sell here, as well. Part of the proceeds went toward a nonprofit organization that serves 2,000 people with disabilities in Brazil.

“We’re super happy, because through Nicolle and her creativity,

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we were able to help this organization, that is going through a tough time financially, especially because of the pandemic. The campaign came to a close and we were so happy with the results,” Nicolle’s mom, Nell Fraga, said. “In addition to this, to further celebrate Down Syndrome Day, Nicolle was honored with a super-realistic baby doll, made by artist Monickie Urbanjos.

“The doll has the same charac-

Let’s Get Back to it.

teristics as Nicolle, including her almond-shaped eyes that are a signifying characteristic of people with Down syndrome. I consider this doll to be another step toward living in a more inclusive world, where diversity is represented in its entirety and everywhere, even in fun. Inclusivity and diversity are important themes to be taught to children from the very beginning of their lives. This doll is a beautiful way to teach that early on.”

ssex County Sheriff Armando Fontoura’s Crime Stoppers Program is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and the conviction of the hit-and-run driver who fatally struck a 75-year-old Lyndhurst woman last year in Nutley.

On Thursday, Oct. 15, 2020 Roseann Ratz and a female friend were crossing the street in the area of Washington Avenue and Rutgers Place in Nutley when she was struck by a car that fled the scene.

She was transported to St. Joseph’s University Hospital where

CRIME STOPPERS she was pronounced dead at on Oct. 16, 2020.

To date, no arrests have been made in this active and ongoing investigation.

Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and Nutley Police Chief Thomas J. Strumolo are urging anyone with information to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force at (877) 847-7432.

Calls will be kept confidential.

— CANESSA

Everyone 12 or older who lives, works, or studies in New Jersey is now eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine.

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Thoughts & Views EDITORIAL

By George & Great Scott, KPD’s crime stats were stellar

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Wednesday, June 9, 2021

ast week, we reported some tremendous news. Kearny’s overall crime, as reported by the FBI in the annual Uniform Crime Report, dropped a whopping 27.5% in 2020 over numbers in 2019 that were, themselves, a part of another drop.

It’s all part of a trend that started four-plus years ago under retired Chief John P. Dowie and that has continued with Chief George King and Deputy Chief Scott Macfie. (King had been deputy chief when the numbers began to sharply drop.)

The numbers dropped, again, in the middle of a global pandemic, but the trends reveal it wasn’t the pandemic that made the numbers so strong. In fact, in one recent year, the drop was 36%, so despite the great numbers, they’re not even the biggest decrease in recent memory.

They’ve dropped because the department is proactive and not reactive.

They’ve dropped because the department has many young officers who go above and beyond the call of duty on a daily basis.

They’ve dropped because technology has become an integral part of policing.

They’ve dropped because each year, when there are retirements, replacements are made to ensure the department is properly staffed.

And they’ve dropped because of the leadership of King and Macfie, who have served the Town of Kearny in as exemplary a manner as is possible to dream of.

This has all happened in a country that hasn’t exactly been wild about law enforcement, especially over the last 13 months.

When things got rough nationally, the police here didn’t retreat. Instead, they were out there, risking their lives, in a visible a manner as one could imagine.

While sandwiched between two major urban metropolises — Jersey City and Newark — things have drastically improved. This, alone, is remarkable, on top of all the other factors.

Kearny has always been a great place to live and work, but it’s never been clearer. We are all fortunate this is a reality. And because of King, Macfie and countless others, we all rest our heads each night knowing we do so in a very safe place to live.

Can’t ask for much more than that.

Giangeruso: EMTs will be following up with patients who declined hospital visits To the Editor: As mayor and the director of public safety, I am happy to announce a new enhancement to our Emergency Medical Service (EMS) for the community.

Beginning May 2021, a member of the town’s EMS team will be reaching out to patients who called for assistance but refused to be transported to the hospital. We developed this service enhancement after recognizing many patients declined transportation after initially being seen by the EMS Team.

This group of patients increased significantly over recent months, many of whom cited legitimate concerns

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about COVID. On-scene responders often felt it was in the patients’ best interest to be seen by hospital staff, but were required to follow the patients’ choices.

Any patient who requests medical assistance for an illness or injury but declines transportation to a medical facility should expect a member of the EMS team to contact them within a few days of their call for help.

The team member calling will be a fully certified Lyndhurst Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).

They will inquire if you are feeling better and encourage you to seek further medical attention if you are still feeling ill and have not.

They will offer emergency transportation or reevaluation of symptoms if you request.

The team member making these calls will not ask for any additional personally identifiable information, will not seek any payment or payment information and will not make any specific diagnosis or provide specific medical advice.

This service is a pilot program that hopefully will lead to a wider community para-medicine project helping ensure our residents receive needed help and support when they are ill or injured, especially during the pandemic.

Robert B. Giangeruso Mayor of Lyndhurst

The Observer’s correction policy

he Observer strives to bring our readers the best and the most accurate news. However, from time to time, there may be mistakes in what we report. As such, we take our obligation to report errors seriously. If you believe we’ve made an error, please send an e-mail to editorial@theobserver.com, indicating what is to be corrected.

We will ensure a correction is noted (if necessary) in a future print edition — and online.

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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

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

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Wednesday, June 9, 2021

Honor students named at Kearny’s Schuyler School The following students achieved honors for the third marking period of the 202021 school year at Kearny’s Schuyler School:

Principal’s Honor Roll Grade 6 Samuel Afanador, Gabriella Almeida, Joshua Barreto, Diego Casco Sanles, Luis Colon, Davi DeOliveira, Lucas DeSouza, Alexa Englese, Angel Ferreras, Kelly Funes, Aidan Gill, Feiyang(Peter) Hu, Aric Kryzanowski, Ethan Luengas, Sofiah Marrero, Zesdne Mayancela, Sofia Munoz, Sumaiya Ouali, Rafael Pereira, advertising@theobserver.com 201-991-1600 Adrian Pinto, Luis Refosco r: Medina, Vivienne Sanchez, Sebastian Santana, Sophia Vargas, Leonor Velez Araujo, Brianna Yarleque and Robert Zdichocki.

Grade 4 Katelyn Anticona Alvarado, Rylie Daughtry, Christopher Jackson, Julian Kulesza, Salwa Ouali, Isaiah Soriano, Jeremy Zabala and Dominick Zdichocki.

Honor Roll Grade 6 Bladimir Arias, Carlos Cabrera-Rojas, Khalil Caldeira, Angel Castillo, Antonella Di Sevo, Jennyfer Gutierrez Gregorio, Koryanne Jimenez, Ammar Khalifa, Anan Khalifa, Michael Live, Natalie Malave, Justin Morales, Luis Palacio, Nerea Perez, Melissa Santinello

Vargas, Juliana Juarez, Keanu Mogollon, Stephanie Pedrosa, Nyree Pickens, Nicholas Reardon, Matthew Vaz Grade 4 Melauric Arrue, Jatneil Benavides,Maria Bombino Sanchez, Madison Carranza, Fernando Diaz, Scarlett Ferreira, Robert Jeffords,Maria Rodriguez DaSilva, Delilah Sanchez, Luna Santos,Maia Sierra, Ysabella Soto, Nicoly Tassi Libanori, Mia Torterolo, Kevin Yang.

Citizenship Grade 6 Samuel Afanador, Gabriella Client: Almeida, Bladimir Arias, Grade 5 Joshua Barreto, Valentina Hailey Alava, Valerie Basantes Intriago, Carlos Amador, Christian Cabrera Rojas, Khalil Caldeira, Anfibio,Romina Barros, Riley Diego Casco Sanles, Angel Bennett, Aiden Burke, Melvin Castillo, Luis Colon, Davi Grade 5 Caceres Guaman, Gabriel DeOliveira, Lucas DeSouza, Elias Bousada, Elizabeth Celi, Maximilyano Corrente, Antonella dvertising: Here is the updated template with a new photo of Jarlynn Hyde: Di Sevo, Alexa Gomez Gonzalez, Brianna Brianna Cruz, Angelina De Englese, Angel Ferreras, Gutierrez, Dominic Paulozzo, Araujo, Katelyn Desa, Philip Jeremiah Flores, Kelly Funes, Kiara Perez, Brooke Lynn Dudek, Hajar Elkassimi, Aiden Alexandria Gaston, Aidan Pulcine, Arianna Rivera Hartkopf, Abderahmane Gill, Jennyfer Gutierrez Chimbo and Olivia Santana.

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Feiyang (Peter) Hu, Koryanne Jimenez, Ammar Khalifa, Anan Khalifa, Lilly Kowalcyzk, Aric Kryzanowski, Michael Live, Ethan Luengas, Natalie Malave, Sofiah Marrero, Zesdne Mayancela, Timothy Mercado, Izabella Mogollon, Justin Morales, Sofia Munoz, Sumaiya Ouali, Luis Palacio, Nicholas Pereira, Rafael Pereira, Nerea Perez, Adrian Pinto, Luis Refosco Medina, Vivienne Sanchez, Sebastian Santana, Melissa Santinello, Emily Simas, Sophia Vargas, Leonor Velez Araujo, Brianna Yarleque, Robert Zdichocki Grade 5 Hailey Alava, Valerie Amador, Christian Anfibio, Xavier Arias, Freddy Barros, Romina Barros, Riley Bennett, Elias Bousada, Aiden Burke, Kevin Cabrera Polanco, Melvin Caceres Guaman, Jacob Castillo, Gabriel Celi, Ulises Colon, Maximilyano Corrente, Brianna Cruz, Miyah Cruz, Angelina DeAraujo, Katelyn Desa, Phillip Dudek, Hajar Elkassimi, Elizabeth

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Wednesday, June 9, 2021

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Sports & Recreation

9

Call him Zach

WITH

Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

Nutley’s Stoeckel a double threat Fallyn Stoeckel had no choice but to be a good athlete, especially a softball player. After all, the Nutley High School junior has practically grown up on softball fields in Essex County.

After all, Stoeckel’s grandfather, Jim Sr., has been a long-time softball and baseball umpire who has been the assignor for the Essex County Tournament for almost 30 years.

And her father, Jim, the former Belleville High boys’ basketball coach, has been a highly respected umpire as well.

“You can tell when someone has grown up around the game,” Nutley head softball coach Luann Zullo said. “I think Fallyn grew up just watching the game.”

“I think it always helped me to be around Dad,” Stoeckel said. “Dad pushed me along all the time and my grandfather goes to so many games and has always been around. It definitely has helped me.”

It’s certainly helped Stoeckel recently. The junior flamethrower has been dynamite, both pitching and at the plate in recent weeks, especially with the NJSIAA North Jersey Section 2, Group III playoffs in full bloom.

Last week, Stoeckel had about as good of a week both pitching and hitting that a player could have.

On the mound, Stoeckel won both of the Maroon

Raiders’ state playoff games against Mendham and JFK-Iselin. Stoeckel fired a one-hitter against Mendham, striking out 15, in the Maroon Raiders’ 8-1 victory. Last Friday, Stoeckel struck out 14 over nine innings in the Maroon Raiders’ thrilling 7-6 win over Iselin Kennedy, coming back from a three-run deficit to do so.

At the plate, Stoeckel was an unconscious nine-for-11 over three games, the two playoff wins and a regular season tilt with Millburn.

Stoeckel delivered three hits, namely two doubles and a triple, drove in three runs and scored three in a 14-0 victory. She had three hits, including a double and a triple, with one RBI and two runs scored in the win over Mendham and finished the week with three more hits, including a double and a triple, and had three RBI in the victory over Iselin Kennedy.

That pretty much sums up an impressive week.

Needless to say, Stoeckel has been selected as The Observer Athlete of the Week for the past week.

Stoeckel was fully aware that the games are much more important now with a possible state championship at stake.

“I’ve been more excited for the state tournament,” Stoeckel said. “I definitely think I perform better in See VIEW, Page 11

Belleville transgender athlete a trailblazer for others

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com Zach Perez just knew from an early age that he just wasn’t right with the gender he was born with.

“I was probably about six or seven,” said Perez, a Belleville High School junior who runs track and plays softball. “I just wasn’t comfortable with girly things and girly clothes.

I didn’t like the way I felt.

I’d cry when they put me in something girly. I’d always want to go to the boys’ section in clothing stores.”

His mother, Fatima, also noticed the difference in his child who was born a girl.

“I would have to say that he always preferred comfortable clothes,” Fatima Perez said.

“He just felt uncomfortable in dresses and shoes. I understood because I’d rather wear be in sneakers and shorts all the time.”

Zach Perez (born Madison Perez, but he calls that his “dead name”) said that he lived an uncertain lifestyle for the first 16 years of his life. In his heart, mind and soul, he was certain that he was meant to be a boy.

“Everyone who knows me knows that I always wanted to be a boy,” Zach Perez said.

Fatima Perez didn’t think there was anything wrong with the way her child dressed and acted.

But last December, on New Year’s Eve, Zach Perez made a power point presentation to his parents. In the presentation, Zach had strategically did all the necessary research to explain his situation to his parents. He wanted to become a transgender person, wanted to be recognized as a male instead of what he was born as.

“I spent a lot of time doing the research to fit my needs

Photo by Jim Hague

Belleville High School junior Zach Perez came out recently as being transgender and has remained a member of the Belleville softball program. .

gender-wise,” Zach said. “I sat them down and explained everything to them in detail.

I told them that I wanted to be Zach. I wanted to improve that part of my life.”

“He explained everything,” Fatima Perez said. “The presentation was thorough.”

Zach said that when he was in middle school, he had to deal with a lot of tragedy. He lost an aunt, a close cousin and then his grandmother.

“My mental health was bad,” Zach said. “I was going through a tough time. I talked to a therapist about my gender and she helped me to get more and more comfortable with it.”

So then there was the dramatic presentation to ring in 2021.

“I was a little worried about my parents’ reaction,” Zach said. “It’s not something you normally talk to your parents about. I just wanted to start the new year as the person I want to be. So I decided to come out then.”

Needless to say, the presentation caught Hector and Fatima a little off guard.

Hector Perez is of Portuguese descent, while Fatima’s family originated in Puerto Rico.

“I think Mom was a little more open minded,” Zach See ZACH, Page 10

10

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proceed and we will support him in any way he wants to proceed.”

Continued from Page 9 It certainly takes a ton of Perez said. “They’re beginning courage to come out in high to feel more comfortable with school and admit a gender change. A closed-minded comit.” munity might not know how “I have to say we were a to handle the situation. little shocked,” Fatima Perez “But Belleville is very acsaid. “It was definitely unexpected. He was very thorough. ceptive,” Zach said. “There’s no need to be transphobic.

He definitely researched it.

There are other trans people But I just told him that we here. No one seems to be mean would be supportive every about it at all.” way we could be. As parents, Perez said that he spoke to we all want to be there for our school counselors about the children. It’s definitely not gender change. easy, but we’re going with it “I told them about comand be there for him.” ing out and using the name I The pronoun use has been difficult, having to get used to preferred,” Zach said.

He selected the name from saying “him” and “he” instead the television show on the of “her” and “she.”

“It’s gotten a lot better with Disney Channel, “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody.” that,” Zach says.

“I just liked that name from Fatima Perez knew that the show,” he said. her child was not the kind of Eventually, he will change person to treat it as a passing his name legally to Zachary phase. when he turns 18 next year, “He has always been the type of child who thinks things but for now, he’s Zach.

Zach Perez admitted that it out,” Fatima Perez said. “We hasn’t been easy telling everyknew how he wanted to be. one that he is transgender. But We knew how he wanted to

ZACH

and field and martial arts.

But softball creates somewhat of an issue. He’s now a male playing in a female-oriented sport. However, Perez is just an outfielder on the junior varsity team.

“I don’t think it’s that big of a deal,” Perez said. “I’m not going Division I or anything.

I’ve never played baseball in my life. I just love being with my friends and sticking with the sport that I’ve played my whole life. I’m working on getting stronger and getting more Photo by Jim Hague Belleville’s Zach Perez is a muscle to be the best player transgender softball player with the I can be. I like to run. It’s my Buccaneers and is making people favorite thing to do.”

Belleville head softball more aware of transgenderism. coach Chris Cantarella has no he felt the time was right to problem at all with Zach being consent to this interview. a part of his program.

“We have a Diversity Club “I have no issues at all,” Canin school,” Zach said. “We also tarella said. “Everyone is super have a LGBTQ Club as well. acceptive and supportive of Belleville is very accepting each other. Zach has truly to it. I know there are other thought about this and he people in the school that are knows that this is who he is. similar to me.”

It takes a huge amount of guts And Zach loves being an to make a mature decision like athlete. He was the captain of this. It’s been a very pleasant the cross country team in the experience.” fall. He participates in track Senior Joanne Calvacca, a

Wednesday, June 9, 2021 teammate of Zach’s in both softball and cross country, considers Zach to be a “team leader.”

“He’s here and he’s here to play,” Calvacca said. “When he came out as Zach, I honestly thought it was great. It says a lot about our team and our community. There are a lot of people who don’t come out and keep it hidden. Zach has a lot of courage. He’s brave to do what he’s done. I’m very proud of him and happy for him. I’m so happy he decided to come out. I think it’s going to help awareness. A lot of people don’t know what it’s like to live their lives that way. It never should matter what his gender is. He’s a person first. It certainly says a lot about him.”

Zach knows that the road ahead will not be an easy one.

For example, if he explores having costly transsexual reassignment surgery, he will have to undergo a series of hormone injections, but that cannot take place until after he’s turned 18.

See ZACH, Page 11

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VIEW

Continued from Page 9 bigger games.”

Stoeckel came through in the clutch against JFK-Iselin, knocking home the gametying run before Sydney Hess plated the game-winner in the ninth inning.

“I knew that I had to do something for us, because it was a pretty high scoring game,” Stoeckel said. “I didn’t know that they (Iselin Kennedy) would be that strong of a team. I just concentrated at the plate and was lucky enough to get a pitch to hit.”

Zullo isn’t complaining about the production she has received from her ace pitcher, who wasn’t feeling 100 percent Friday.

“She was sick,” Zullo said.

“She had a really bad cough.

But that wasn’t going to stop her. She struck out four batters in the first inning. She is getting better every day. She works hard. She’s fine tuning the pitches she has and has not been complacent at all, working on others.”

Stoeckel had a brilliant freshman campaign for the Maroon Raiders, but like everyone else, she was slowed by the coronavirus that halted all sports last spring.

“That really hurt a lot,” Stoeckel said. “We knew we were going to have a strong team last year. So I knew I had to get a lot better than I was freshman year. I am definitely throwing harder now.

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Photo courtesy of Jim Stoeckel

Nutley junior pitcher Fallyn Stoeckel.

My pitches are moving a lot better. I am better compared to my freshman year. I only had two games of 10 strikeouts or more.”

And Stoeckel had two of those last week alone.

“It’s a real thrill for me to be doing so well,” Stoeckel said. “And when I’m hitting well, I know that if I’m not pitching my best, I can still help the team win.”

The Maroon Raiders are 21-3 and headed to the state sectional semifinals Wednesday against either Matawan or Woodbridge in Nutley’s Yanitcaw Park at 4:30 p.m.

Stoeckel is perhaps the main reason why the Maroon Raiders are where they are.

She’s batting .457 for the season with 14 doubles and 26 RBI. Pitching, she has surrendered just 21 earned runs in 147 innings pitched (an even 1.00 earned run average) with 165 strikeouts. You can’t get much better than

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Zullo is confident that Stoeckel can play college softball.

“I definitely think she can play at the next level,” Zullo said. “It’s unfortunate that she lost last year and last summer was big. I think this summer will be really big for her in terms of recruiting.”

“I think about it a lot,” Stoeckel said. “I think this summer (playing for the New Jersey Fight) will mean a lot to me.”

There are still big games to be won for the Maroon Raiders.

“We have a special group of kids who do all the intangibles that other teams I coached didn’t have,” Zullo said. “They fight for everything and they have fun. I look forward to every game with this group.”

The Maroon Raiders also have a chance to win the Super Essex ConferenceAmerican Division title with regular season games against front runners Livingston, Verona and Mount St. Dominic on tap. The Maroon Raiders have to win all three of those games, but with Stoeckel on the mound, anything is possible.

“I trust my teammates a lot,” Stoeckel said. “Even when we fall behind by three runs like we did the other day, we have the ability to come back, as long as everyone does their job.”

As long as the kid standing in the circle holding the ball is ready to fire away.

ZACH

Continued from Page 10 “I haven’t even gone to a doctor yet,” Perez said.

“That’s something I’ll have to talk to my parents about.

I’ll need some time to bring about that change. Any surgery is way down the line.

I know it’s very expensive.

Whether how far I’ll take it remains to be seen.”

Perez knows he’s subjecting himself to public scorn and criticism.

“People will say, ‘Why would you admit to it?’”

Perez said. “I feel bad for people who just don’t understand. I know it’s a very sensitive issue. I don’t see the problem. It makes no sense to me that people will look at me differently.

I’m just me.”

Perez knows that he’s being extremely courageous and brave coming out in public like this.

“I know that some may say that he was very brave for what he’s done,” Perez said. “Maybe if I’m showing people that I’m not

afraid and can inform others about the topic, then that’s great.”

Fatima Perez, for one, is extremely proud of her son.

“He’s very courageous,” Fatima said. “I don’t know if he gets that from me. But to come out and tell his story, maybe some other children or even adults will do the same. He’s just a very bright kid with great grades. He’s very well rounded. He does every sport he wants. He makes us proud.”

Zach Perez admits he will now forever stand out in a crowd.

“I know I’ll never be completely normal,” Zach says with a smile. “I feel it should be normalized, not shunned. I wish it wasn’t that way. I just play high school softball for a small school. I just hope people are more accepting sportswise and not make it an issue.”

Brave people like Zach Perez are making transgenderism less of an issue every day.

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12 Freshman Martinez leads the way for Lyndhurst softball The Observer | www.theobserver.com

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

LYNDHURST – “We love freshmen. We love freshmen.”

That was the chant that echoed from the Lyndhurst High School softball team’s dugout Saturday afternoon. And deservedly so.

Because freshman second baseman Naya Martinez was enjoying the game of her young life in the NJSIAA North Jersey Section 2, Group II quarterfinals.

Martinez, who has been totally on fire for the last four weeks, delivered the clutch hits in the Golden Bears’ 6-2 win over Hanover Park to move on to the sectional semifinals.

Martinez had a two-run triple to cap off a four-run first inning explosion, then smacked a twoout, two-run double in the fifth inning to put a capper on the victory.

Martinez has driven in 13 runs in the last seven games.

“We always love freshmen,

but Naya makes me love freshmen even more,” said Lyndhurst head coach Sara Fusco, who saw her team improve to 17-6 with their sixth win in a row. “We always knew that Naya would be a big asset to our team.”

Martinez said that she appreciates the support she gets from her teammates with the cheers.

“I hear it all the time,” Martinez said. “It gets me hyped. I love being a freshman and love being on this team.”

Martinez delivered the key blow in the first inning with the two-run triple.

“I was just looking for a pitch to drive,” Martinez said. “I was ready from the first pitch.”

The four-run outburst made things a hell of a lot easier for junior pitcher Ella Todzuman.

“It built my confidence,” said Todzuman, who scattered six hits in going the distance, striking out five and walking two. “I knew then that I just had to throw strikes and let the defense make plays. It took a

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

real confidence booster.”

The Golden Bears now move on in the state tournament to face the winner of ParsippanyBernards in the sectional semifinals. The game will be played Wednesday at the Lyndhurst Recreation facility.

As long as the freshman keeps up her hot streak, the Golden Bears can go a long way.

“It’s the best thing that ever happened to me,” Martinez said of her performance. “I’m so happy.”

“We can go as far as we can,” Todzuman said. “We have that kind of potential.”

The Golden Bears also received three hits from junior first baseman Stephanie Mizeski. Rivera had two hits, including a double, and two runs scored.

The incredible aspect of this team is: They have only two seniors in Alexa Borino and Gianna Alberti, so the heart of this team returns next year.

Watch out. Especially for the freshman who will only be a sophomore.

Photos by Jim Hague

Lyndhurst junior pitcher Ella Todzuman pitched a gem Saturday in the NJSIAA North Jersey Section 2, Group II quarterfinals. RIGHT: Lyndhurst freshman second baseman Naya Martinez gets ready for a play. Martinez delivered two clutch hits and four RBI in the Golden Bears’ 6-2 victory.

ton of pressure off me.”

“It gave us a nice cushion for the rest of the game,” Fusco said.

And the Golden Bears relied on a defense that was beyond brilliant, making one solid play after another. Jaylene Rivera made two sparkling plays at third base and Martinez made a great catch of a line drive at second base that turned into a double play.

Quite honestly, it was the best defensive effort this reporter has ever seen. It was pristine and perfect.

“It was pretty unbelievable,” Fusco said. “We were supposed to play (Friday) and instead we had a defensive practice. Our defense came up big today. It obviously worked. I’m thrilled.”

“The defense was amazing,” Todzuman said. “It’s the best we’ve ever played. When they are that good, I never have to worry about anything. It’s a

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Obituaries

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

adziu,” he shined, attending sports games or practices, Stanley Sowa “Dziadziu” dance recitals, helping with was born in Rudnik, Poland, Polish school homework, field on May 1, 1949 at home to trips to West Hudson Park Franciszek Sowa and Apolonia and sleepovers. These were a Pi tek, as the youngest with source of endless picture takfive sisters and two brothers. ing and candy rewards.

He attended TECHNIKUM After a brief illness Stanley EGLUGI RÓDL DOWEJ “Dziadziu” Sowa peacefully WE WROCŁAWIU for high died into eternal glory with school, the earned his bachGod on May 27, 2021. elor’s degree in teaching with He is survived by his wife a specialty in math and physUrszula Sowa, daughter Irene ics from STUDIUM NAUCand her family (husband Gary, ZYCIELSKIE W NOWYM and children Ania, Ivan, and S CZU. Sebastian), daughter Barbara Stanley immigrated to the and her family (husband United States of America in Mark, and children Stanley, the spring of 1975 by way Peter, and Agatha), his sister of Austria, landing in New Władysława Bochenek, and York City with $5 and a small many many nieces and nephsuitcase. The Austrian imews around the world. migration organization, IRC, Stanley is greatly missed, assisted him into a motel room but his legacy, hard work and and his American adventures humor live on forever. began.

A memorial Mass will be Landing his first job in Newcelebrated June 12, 2021, at 11 ark, and staying in a rooma.m. at St. Michael the Archand-board, Stanley jumped angel Church, Lyndhurst, with around to different companies fellowship to follow. with a goal toward a union job. He happily began working JEAN DOFFONT with Thumann’s, in Carlstadt, Geraldine in September 1978, where he worked until the lockdown in R. “Jean” Doffont died March 2020.

June 4, 2021.

Meeting his soon-to-be She was wife, Urszula Stanek, when 95. he was originally set up to Visiting meet someone else in 1977, the was at the couple wed on June 21, 1978, Armitage after a brief courtship. Soon after Stanley’s daughter Irene, & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Mass and then another baby girl, will be celebrated Tuesday, Barbara were born.

June 8, at 10 a.m. at Holy Cross Moving his family to their home in Kearny from Newark Church in Harrison. Burial in April 1983, he lived and took will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. pride in his home, family and Jean was a member of the his children’s education.

Holy Cross Rosary Society Stanley’s full joy was his and the Vincentian Society. grandchildren and he loved Jean was a county committeeevery minute he spent with woman for Hudson County them. As a grandfather “Dzi-

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and was the President of the Harrison Gardens Tenants Association.

Jean worked at Harrison Baking Company for 25 years.

She was the wife of the late Vincent W., mother of Alan Doffont (his wife Maureen), Vincent Doffont (his wife Mary Lynn), Jane Carey (her husband John), John Doffont (his wife Mary) and the late Duane Doffont (his wife Kathy). She is also survived by grandchildren, Pamela, Alison, Vincent, Tara, John, Kristen, Taryn, Brianne, Michael, Brian, Kyra, Jennine, Lauren and Amy and great grandchildren, Hudson, Nolan, Liam, Lieghton, Thomas, Kyla, James, Brendan, Katherine, Anna, Ella, Thomas and Frances. Also surviving are her nieces Janet Curtis, Ruth Hayes and Kathleen Ritacco.

JOHN PAUL KOZDRON

Fire Captain of the Harrison Fire Department, died Friday, May 28, 2021.

He was 75 years old.

Funeral services were under the direction of Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Ave., Harrison. A funeral mass was celebrated at Holy Cross Church, Harrison.

If you would like to send a condolence message to his family, please visit www.mulliganfh.com.

John was predeceased by his parents, his wife, Norma Gacho Kozdron, his sisters, Judith Kozdron Blain and her spouse, Robert Blain of Prattsville, New York and Carol Kozdron O’Hara and her spouse, James O’Hara of Belleville.

He is survived by his sister, Joanna Kozdron Mattos and her husband Gilbert Mattos of Byram Township, and

John Paul Kozdron, a retired

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

You will feel as if friends of family have taken over when you entrust funeral arrangements to the Wilfred Armitage Funeral Home. The family-owned firm has been in business for 100 years, serving generations in West Hudson and South Bergen. Its beautiful facilities, in a setting reminiscent of a colonial mansion, reflect the graciousness and tact of its understanding personnel.

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Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home

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

2 Acme St. | Belleville, NJ 973.450.0602 www.bellacasacaterers.com

14

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MID-REALTY, INC. 572 KEARNY AVE. KEARNY, NJ 07032 PHONE: (201) 991-5719 FAX: (201) 991-8860 WWW.MIDREALTY.COM

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$595,000 1 Fam. – 5 Bdrms - LR’s – DR’s – EIK’s – Unfin. Bsmt Sep. Utilities

Kearny $649,000 3 Fam. - 5 Bdrms – LR/ DR’s – EIK’s – Full Unfin. Bsmt.

– Sep. Utilities

Newark - $275,000 Condo - 2 Bdrms – Open Concept LR, DR – Kitchen – 2 Full Baths – Parking

Newark - $150,000 Business for Sale - Well established Cafe/Restaurant. Situated in high traffic area, busy walk-able neighborhood.

Corner location with unique exposure, Full dining room with about 50 seats, plus Buffet area. Good income producer. Business includes all kitchen equipment in excellent condition, refrigeration, all furniture, walk in boxes, coolers, lighting, POS system, two TV’s, full camera system. Full basement for storage and office.

Kearny - $525,000 2 Fam. - 6 Bdrms 3 Baths – LR’s – Lg. EIK’s – Semi Fin. Bsmt. – Sep. Utilities

Kearny - $394,000 1 Fam. - 3 Bdrms and loft area2.5 baths-Lr-Dr-Kitchen-Fenced in yard with Dr way parking for 4 plus cars.

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Nutley - $179,900 Condo - 1 Bdrm- LrDr-Kitchen- Full Bath-Attic Strg – Parking

Annandale - $244,900 Condo - 2 BdrmLr-Dr-Kitchen-1.5 Bath-Laundry in Unit

Paterson - $309,900 1 Fam. - 4 Bdrms-Lr-DREIK – 3 Full Bath- Unfin.

Bsmt

Kearny - $365,000 1 Fam. - 3 Bdrms – LR – DR – Kitchen – Den – Bath – Deck - Parking

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Kearny - $419,900 1 Fam. - 3 Bdrms – Lr-Dr-EIK– Sunrm- 1.5 Baths – Fin. AtticFull unfin Bsmt- Dr Way prkng.

Caldwell - $446,600 1 Fam. - 2 Bdrm-Lr-DrMod. Kitchen-Sunrm2 Baths-Full Unfin.

Bsmt-Patio

Kearny - $459,000 2 Fam. - 4 Bdrms-2 Baths- Lr’s- Dr’s-EIK’s-Unfin Bsmt- Sep. Utilities

Kearny - $468,000 1 Fam. - 3 Bdrms – LrDr-Kitchen-3.5 baths-Full Fin. Bsmt w Bar & Rec Rm-Yard-Dr Way

Kearny - $548,800 1 Fam. - 3 Bdrms –2.5 baths- Lr w FP-Dr- Kitchen W Brkfst Nook- Full Semi Fin Bsmt – Dr Way-2 Car Garage

Kearny - $289,000 1 Fam. - Row Home-LrDr-Kitchen- Deck- 3 Br’s1.5 baths-Yard.

Jersey City - $529,900 Mixed Use - Great investment opportunity for this Mixed-Use 3 unit building located on Ocean Avenue. The building’s first floor features a commercial space that is currently being utilized as a convenience store (with 1.5 bathrooms) and the second floor contains two (2) bedroom apartments that have been recently updated. All separate utilities

N. Arlington- $450,000 1 Fam. – 3 Bdrms – LR – DR- Kitchen – Bath – Fin. Bsmt

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Bridgewater - $614,200 1 Fam. - 4 Bdrms-LR w FireplDr-Mod. Kitchen- Family Rm- 1.5 Baths- 2 Car Grg

Kearny - $645,000 3 Fam. - 5 Bdrms-Lr’sDr’s-EIK’s- 3 Baths- Full Bsmt w Laundry hkps – Dr Way Prking – Sep Utilities

Belleville - $2,200 Location, Location- Medical office space available with 20 car parking-Across from Clara mass hospitalGreat foot traffic.

Kearny - $5,500 Turnkey restaurant with approx. 2700 sq ft- Great foot traffic-Plenty of options to suit your needs.

TAL REN

Kearny - $1,500 1st Fl. - 2 Bdrm – LR – DR – EIK – Full Bath – Laundry

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Newark - $1,500 2nd Fl. - 2 Bdrms – LR – EIK – Full Bath – Yard

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Call (201) 991-5719 APARTMENT RENTALS AVAILABLE - 1, 2 & 3 Bdrm UNITS Call and Ask About our Reduced Rental Fee!

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War. After John completed his time in the Navy, he worked at Western Continued from Page 13 Electric for a while and then decided to become his brother Milton A. a firefighter. John joined Kozdron Jr. and his the Harrison Fire Departwife, Anne McLaughlin ment and worked his way Kozdron of Manchester; to became captain, and he his fiancé Natalie Duque was a certified EMT. and her three children, John enjoyed huntHezekiah and Isaiah ing and fishing in his Henderson and Angelina younger years, he loved Little, and many cousins, to sing and dance and he nieces and nephews. liked to cook. He was also John graduated from interested in photograHarrison High School in phy. John loved his nieces 1964. He served in the US and nephews and enjoyed Navy on the USS Kitty taking them bowling and Hawk during the Vietnam fishing.

OBITS

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Kearny - $1,450 3rd Fl. - Renovated - 1 Bdrm – LR – Kitchen – Laundry in Bsmt

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Jersey City - $2,900 1st Fl. - 2 Bdrms-Lr/DrKitchen-Full Bath-LaundryPets OK

Wednesday, June 9, 2021 John was a member of the Elks. He was a Good Samaritan and was always prepared to lend a helping hand to someone in need.

He would send needed items to the poor in the Philippines, the homeland of his wife, Norma.

He was a communicant and an usher at Holy Cross Church in Harrison.

Please consider making a memorial contribution to the Harrison Fireman’s Juvenile Fund, 634 Sussex St., Harrison, N.J. 07029 in loving memory of John.

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street parking. Both apartments contain living room, eat in kitchen, 2 bedrooms and bath. Full unfinished basement. 30 x 90 lot. Incredible value at Just $389,000.

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

15

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TOLVE

Continued from Page 1 in common with Gehrig.

He, too, has ALS, a diagnosis he only learned of nine months ago.

We spoke with Tolve late last week about his experience at the Stadium, but also about being afflicted with a disease that will, barring a medical or scientific breakthrough of epic proportions, take his life sometime in the next 4 ¼ years. He was told by doctors he had between 2 to 5 years to live when he was diagnosed in September 2020.

Three-fourths of that first year have already gone by.

And the ALS, a progressive neurological disease that weakens a human being’s muscles, has already taken a strong grip on Tolve, though you’d absolutely never know it based on the way he speaks so bravely and positively — and how he has accepted the reality that one day, when his disease progresses to the very end, it will literally suffocate him — his lungs will no longer be able to expand enough for him to properly breathe.

“It shocks you at first,” Tolve says.

“But it would be easy to sit there and cry. I am a performer. I can’t cry. I have

Tolve is seen here with WABC TV’s Michelle Charlesworth, who has helped him to get a bill introduced in Congress to speed up experimental ALS treatments and drugs. to be able to sing. My lung capacity is at 75% now. When I sang at the Stadium, I had to wear two belts — one on my waist, another on my diaphragm” to help sing properly.

While he says he could be angry with getting a death sentence, he’s not.

“I go at my own pace and get through this with my faith in Jesus,” he says, proudly. “It’s the source of my strength. I don’t blame God for this happening to me. I’ve accepted that this is all in God’s hands and that I am blessed to be surrounded by wonderful

friends and family.”

Among those friends is Phil Cuzzi, a Belleville native and Major League Baseball umpire, who has been featured on the pages of this newspaper before by our own Jim Hague. Cuzzi, as fate would have it, is already an ALS ally and has hosted fundraisers for it — including one recently in Nanina’s in the Park, Belleville.

Turn back the clock to 1996 — Cuzzi and Tolve have a conversation about getting him in to sing at the old Stadium. Long story short, Cuzzi gets it

Location.

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Story concludes on Page 19

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done — and Tolve is set to sing at the stadium sometime during the ’96 campaign, a special season, one in which you might recall the Yankees were World Series champions for the first time since 1978.

But as luck would have it, it never happened.

“I was actually the one to have to back out,” Tolve says. “It was set for the same night where I would make a lot of money to perform at a wedding.”

And, to make it even more disappointing, the PR woman who made the arrangements with Cuzzi and Tolve — and who said she’d make it happen in the ’97 season — wound up leaving the Yankees for the Minnesota to take a similar position with the Twins.

“So I never got that chance,” he says.

That was, of course, until Tolve and Cuzzi talked before the start of the 2021 season.

The ump had Tolve film a rendition of the anthem on his phone.

Cuzzi brought the rendition to Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman down in Tampa in Spring Training.

Cuzzi says Cash loved it. And, perhaps perfectly, Tolve was chosen to sing for the first of what will likely be annual Lou Gehrig nights around MLB every

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Wednesday, June 9, 2021

Observer Classifieds

17

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

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

Stable and SAFE work environment and a chance to grow with a solid company SKILLED CLIMBER & EXPERIENCED GROUND GUY West Milford or North Jersey area Experience & Transportation and a valid drivers license a must Call

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EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

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Help wanted for Busy Deli Full Time- Part Time Days and Evenings Apply in Person D&F Deli 396 Davis Ave, Kearny

APPLIANCES & ELECTRONICS REPAIR OVER 20 YEARS SERVING NJ RESIDENTS IN 6 COUNTIES. FALAMOS PORTUGUES. HABLAMOS ESPANOL. FREE ESTIMATE AT SANTRONICS.NET OR CALL 908-403-0313

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NOW HIRING Bartenders, Cooks,

04W03

Full-time Program Coordinator needed in the town of Kearny. Kearny Public Library seeks candidate to join our exciting public library. Qualified candidates will interact with all facets of the community, including all organizations, schools, businesses, local government and patrons. Bachelor’s degree required. Bi-lingual candidates with programming and community work a plus. Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. For full NJ CSC title https://info.csc. state.nj.us/jobspec/04399.htm. For application go to https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ Deadline to apply is June 30, 2021 03W03

Call Mid-Realty today for information how you can become a real estate agent!

You have an opportunity to enjoy an independent full or part time career in real estate in just a few short weeks. For almost 60 years Mid-Realty Inc, has been a successful real estate company serving New Jersey. Whether looking for a new career or curious as to how our office supports our agents, call today for a confidential interview to find out more about us.

(201)991-5719 Email midrealty@gmail.com 02W09

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46W26

ELECTRICAL SUBCODE OFFICIAL, Cleaning & MainteFULL TIME – KEARNY TOWN Under direction of the nance call Construction Official, has the subordinate 201-744-6709 52W06 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 Ada’s Place is Hiring! underway to ensure that compliance with plans and We are now hiring specifications approved in accord with the State Licensed & experienced Uniform Construction Code is achieved; does other Nail Tech. related duties such as property maintenance, zoning Experience in Natural Mani/Pedicure and code enforcement. HHS license and valid NJ and waxing. driver’s license required. Salary Range 78,002-87,459 Please call 862-596-2305.

Application Deadline is 7/1/2021. See Town of Se habla espanol.

Kearny Website for application https://www.kearnynj.

04W03 org/job-opportunities/ Position is provisional and subject to Civil Service exam.

PROGRAM COORDINATOR

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DAY CARE Now Hiring Preschool Teacher Bilingual Please Text: 201-647-0239

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 01W08

@theobservernj Celebrate the

Class of 2021

With a photo, name of student, school and a personalized message!

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Local sheet metal company looking for full time experienced Drivers/Fabricators to drive 14’ box truck.

Deliver material through out the Tristate area.

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SUMMER ADVENTURES SPORTFISHING CHARTERS Go fishing with your friends or family!

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Also accepting checks sent to 39 Seeley Ave. • Kearny, NJ 07032

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Observer Classifieds

18

17

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

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

ROOM FOR RENT

BLOOMFIELD

HARRISON

KEARNY

KEARNY

BLOOMFIELD Studio & 1 BR apartments.

H/HW included. Laundry facilities on premises. $850 to $1050.

See Super Yasira 275 Glenwood Ave, Bloomfield 201-852-3895

HARRISON 2nd floor apartment, 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, kitchen, living room, dining rm. $1750 + 1 months security Available now (973)393-5778 05W03

03W03

HARRISON

KEARNY N.ARLINGTON

KEARNY Newly renovated, HARRSION 3 BR. LR. hardwood floors. Laundry EIK. 1 Bath. $1450 + 1 onsite. HT/HW included. 2 months security. Utilities BR start at $1,450 separate. Available June 1 BR start at $1,295 1st Call Carlos (201)988Jr. BR start at $ 1,195 (201) 289-7096 7536 03W03 02W12

HARRISON 2nd floor, 3 BR, 1 B, LV, DN, Kitchen.

Hardwood floors, utilities separate, near public transportation/schools/ shopping. No Smoking.

References required. Avail June. $1,650 + 1 month security deposit. Call 973485-3046 or 973-4548056 04W03

HARRISON Studio with bathroom. $900/mth plus 1.5 mth security. Available Now Call (973)970-8688 05W01

KEARNY One bedroom apartment on 2nd fl. walk up $1,475.00 and two bedroom apartment on the first floor. $1,800.00 H/W floors throughout.

Utilities not included.

Close to path and train.

Cats and small dogs OK. Available July 1 (201)6185337 05W03

N.ARLINGTON 1 bedroom, 1 bath, HW floors, Newly painted. $1,200/ mth plus 1.5 mth security. 1 year lease. H/HW included. (732)237-4682

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.

03W03

HARRISON 3rd Floor.

2 BR, 1 Bath, LR. DR/Office. EIK, Access to yard. $1800 + 1.5 months se03W03 curity. Utilities not included. Parking additional.

No Pets/Smoking. Available Now (973)610-5858 KEARNY Second floor 05W03 with 2 or possibly 3 bedrooms near Franklin school in 2 family home.

One & half months security. No smoking or pets.

HARRISON 97-99 Ham- Available 6/15 utilities ilton St. 3rd fl. 3 BR, separate $1,600. Call afH/W floors, $1,550 + 1.5 ter 5pm (201)991-6911 months security. Utilities 05W03 Separate. No pets. Avl July 1st. (201) 921-3954 05W03

KEARNY Newly renovated 2nd fl. bathroom, closet, private entrance. no pets. $750/month. utilities included. Avl. July 1st. Call after 4PM (201) 998-2314 04W03

KEARNY Single, clean, responsible person $500/MONTH. 1 month security. No kitchen, No smoking. Available now.

(201)667-1733 04W03

FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT

03W06

N.ARLINGTON Garden Apartment for rent.

NICE AREA! BR.Kitchen, LR & Bathroom. $1400 + 1 months security.

H/HW included. No Pets/Smoking. Single or Couple preferred.

1 parking space.

Laundry on premise.

Call between 10am - 7pm (201)997-2341 04W03

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

HARRISON 2nd floor, 2 BR, LR, DR, Modern Kitchen. $1,900/month.

1 month security. 1 off street parking space included Walking distance to PATH. No pets. No smoking. Avl. June 15th.

(973) 420-0139 05W03

KEARNY 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, LR, DR, 2 walk in closets, Laundry. 2 parking spaces in driveway. $2,300/mth plus 1 mths security. No Smoking/Pets.Available July 1st. (201)562-7546 (201)628-4670 04W03

KEARNY KEARNY Share bath and shower. $650 incl. WIFI & Utilities Included. One occupant per private room.

Close to transportation.

Located in the Center of Town No smoking No pets Background check Call Bill for further information (201)906-6847 04W03

LYNDHURST

GARAGE SALE

LYNDHURST 2 Bedroom Central Air, completely N.ARLINGTON renovated, Laundry on premises, open kitchen completely renovated. All New floors $1,650/Mth. GARAGE SALE June 12 & 13. 9-4pm 117 Riverview (201)736-5821 05W01 Ave. North Arlington, NJ, 07031. Discounted prices for clothes, electronics, ROOM toys & alot more. MUST COME!! 05W01 FOR RENT

HARRISON HARRISON 1 room. $500/month everything included TV, cable & internet. (973) 525-3860 (917)406-7670 03W03

GARAGE FOR RENT Garage for rent on Magnolia Ave, Kearny $165/mth 1 months rent plus security.

(201)736-1223 05W03

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.

Belleville helping seniors get to their vaccine appointments Two programs are helping dozens of Belleville residents, including many senior citizens who have been eagerly awaiting COVID-19 vaccination shots.

Residents who are unable to leave their homes are getting a helping hand from members township’s Health Department, who administer the vaccine right in residents’ homes.

And Essex County officials are coming to the aid of Belleville senior citizens who don’t have transport by providing door-to-door bus service to and from vaccination sites.

“Both programs are providing crucial services to our residents, including our seniors,” Mayor Michael Melham said. “I want to thank County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. and Essex County for including Belleville in the bus program.

“We asked them to include Belleville in the program because we knew we had many seniors here who needed the service. Their generosity and the hard work of our township Health Department and the EMS members are keeping our residents safe and healthy as we persevere through the pandemic.”

The county’s pilot program picks up seniors in Belleville, Newark, East Orange, Orange, Irvington and Bloomfield, and takes them to a vaccination site set up at the Stephen N. Adubato Sr. Sports Complex in Newark.

The bus then brings them home after they have gotten their shot.

The township’s homevisit program is staffed

by registered nurses Pat Hickey and Joann Marino Greiss, who work in the Health Department.

They travel to the homes of residents who have signed up with the township to receive the shot.

Hickey and Greiss are escorted by members of the Belleville EMS squad, who remain on standby in case residents have an immediate reaction to the vaccine.

Hickey said these senior citizens are receiving the vaccine developed

by Johnson & Johnson because it is a singledose. This eliminates the need for a return trip to homes.

“The seniors have been relieved to get the vaccinations,” Hickey said. “They greet us with smiles and they are just so relieved to get the vaccine. It feels great as a health care provider to be helping people stay healthy rather than treating them when they are sick.”

“This has been a tough time for many of us, but it has been very difficult on seniors over the past year,” Greiss said. “Early on, we knew that the risk of severe illness with COVID-19 increases in older adults.”

In addition to getting the vaccine, these residents are also getting a small additional gift.

Hickey said she used some of the CARES Act money the Health Department received to make small gift bags filled with hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.

“We are proud of our Health Department and how it is literally going the extra mile to help our residents,” Township Manager Anthony Iacono said. “It is crucial that we continually search for ways to best serve our residents during this lingering pandemic.”

Residents may get more information by calling the Health Department at (973) 450-3389 or (973) 450-3393.

18

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Observer Classifieds

The Obsever is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m.

Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — no billing. Call 201-991-1600 to place an ad. The Observer cannot accept legal advertising.

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19

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Continued from Page 15 June 2.

Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of the whole affair, which Tolve got to witness from the stands with 50 of his closest friends and family, was that the YES Network, the TV home of the Yankees, on Lou Gehrig night of all nights, did not broadcast his rendition of the anthem over the air. (The Yanks did, nonetheless, Tweet the entire video to its followers — you may see it now at www.theobserver.com.)

It appears this has been a YES policy since players began taking knees during the anthem following the death of George Floyd at the hands of former Minneapolis Police Officer Derrick Chauvin.

Yet it was no less disappointing, regardless of the rationale.

“YES absolutely dropped the ball,” Tolve says, whilst noting at least 87,000 people have already viewed the Tweeted video.

Now, as upbeat and optimistic as Tolve remains, the challenges that lie ahead for him are unfathomable.

Since he was diagnosed, his ALS has already progressed so much so that he can’t go to the bathroom without help.

He needs a cane now to walk. He continues to perform, locally, but when he

Tolve singing at a special event some time ago.

plays the piano — something he ’s done he’s expertly for decades — he can only use his right hand. The musculature in his left hand and left arm have already depleted enough to make them unusable.

In the coming weeks, he says he expects to begin using a wheelchair.

He says he can no longer brush his own hair — and though he can begin to brush his teeth on his own, he can’t finish without someone’s help. And just a few weeks ago, he drove a car for what he knows will be the very last time.

It has all happened so quickly —

nine months to be precise — yet he keeps an amazingly positive outlook on life and plans to continue to sing for as long as he physically can.

“I’m on the ‘Jerry’s Dying’ tour,” he says, somewhat serious, somewhat tongue-in-cheek. “I want more people to be educated about ALS.” And with the help of WABC’s Michelle Charlesworth, he’s pushing for a bill that stalled in Congress to be adopted and signed by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. that would end the long waiting period for those with ALS

to get experimental treatments and medications.

“If we have to wait 10 years, but have 2 to 5 to live, what sense does it make?” he says. “We need this bill passed.”

One of the people with whom he sings is his dear friend Carla Virola.

The pair met about a decade ago when Tolve was singing at Bucco’s restaurant in Bloomfield. What started out as a professional arrangement turned into a lifelong friendship, Virola says. And it just happened that Tolve needed a new vocalist to pair up with at the time.

“One night he was singing and had his keyboard,” Virola says. “We sang together — it was impromptu. And then he asked me if I wanted to sing with him. Right away, I said, ‘yes!’”

That was eight years ago.

She says when she learned of Tolve’s diagnosis, she was stunned, but then not surprised, by how he was taking it.

“He’s prayed for me when I needed it,” Virola says. “And at the time, he looked fine. His faith is simply amazing. I am Christian, too. The time now is all about celebrating his life — he’s still with us, you know? I pray for a miracle that something will spare him from this — maybe a drug, anything.

He’s an amazing loyal friend whose voice is like buttah’. I am blessed to have such a friend.”

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The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

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