e-Newspaper for Sept. 8, 2021

Wednesday, 8 September 2021

www.TheObserver.com

Vol. CXXXIV, No. 18

ON THE INSIDE In Sports, Jim Hague takes a look at the Belleville High School 2021 football team & more.

Starting on Page 9

20 YEARS LATER

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

This middle inset photo was taken in Kearny on Sept. 11, 2001, as only one of the Twin Towers remained. We’re unsure who took it, but it encapsulates the day, 20 years ago, perfectly. This week, The Observer takes a look back at how some in our community handled the worst terror attack in our nation’s history. PAGE 4.

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Wednesday, September 8, 2021

NAVES: SAVING LIVES AND

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

F

or 30 years, George McDermott has been a member of the North Arlington Volunteer Emergency Squad, or NAVES as you’ve probably seen painted in huge letters on their vehicles and ambulances. He’s currently a lieutenant with the squad and its vice president and is among the most experienced members.

The demand for NAVES has, perhaps, never been greater. After all, like it or

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not, we’re still right in the middle of a pandemic. So that means there are more calls for service and there’s a greater need for volunteers now than ever before as those calls continue to climb.

“We see 180 or more calls a month,” McDermott says.

“And with COVID, our members have been busting their asses to cover shifts and to be there to take the calls when they’re most needed.”

Despite meeting all the challenges COVID-19 presented NAVES, the need for new, younger members is also there. And so McDermott and company are hoping there are women and men out there who might be willing to become volunteers.

The pay stinks at $0 an hour. But the rewards for those 18 or older, perhaps looking for a career in medicine as a doctor or nurse, with a love for science and helping people, far outweighs any potential financial gains.

“This is a great way to give back to a community that gives so much to the people who live here,” McDermott says. “And it’s not necessary to live in North Arlington to be a volunteer. Anyone from the surrounding towns can volunteer with us. This is a great way to get your feet wet if you’re interested in the medical field.”

Indeed it is.

But many come to NAVES looking to get experience, but wind up staying for a long time.

Take Chris Imbrenda, the current head of operations and a captain of NAVES. He began volunteering in 1997.

He’s still there, now leading the squad with which he was once a curious newbie. Few, like Imbrenda, truly know the ins-and-outs of NA — street names and locations, who lives where, and so on.

One other who knows NA’s ins-and-outs well is Bryan Wartel, the squad’s president.

Wartel took time to discuss why he loves NAVES and has stuck around for a long time.

“I was drawn to the squad a few years before I officially joined. My sister was a member of NAVES and a past president,” Wartel says.

“The family atmosphere and the companionship to the members and the community was by far nothing I have seen nor been a part of. From the first time I walked in the door till present, NAVES hasn’t lost that friendly and family atmosphere.

“Being a member of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, I strongly felt I needed additional medical training while operating fires throughout New Jersey with the remoteness to the nearest medical facility. During my first year as a member, I made friends to last a lifetime.

I also saw when North Arlington EMS purchased a new ambulance and two state-of-the-art Ferno Ambulance stretchers for both front-line ambulances.”

Wartel says NAVES offers him much more than he gives to it.

“The dedication from each of our members encourages and pushes us to strive to make NAVES one of the best EMS squads around,” he says. “And to be able to keep bringing our squad to newer and higher levels and most importantly being a part of our community.”

So volunteering could lead to a labor of love that isn’t just about getting a start.

Who knows, it could lead to a lifetime of service.

Because there are others Continued on the next page

Wednesday, September 8, 2021

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LOOKING FOR NEW BLOOD Continued from previous page

who have volunteered for so long, McDermott estimates some have combined to volunteer 4,000+ hours per year to the squad. Just think of that. A non-leap year has 8,736 hours.

“It’s that rewarding,” McDermott says. “It’s almost like taking on a full-time job, though many members work regular jobs in addition to their volunteering.”

So aside from the obvious, what else would a volunteer squad member do?

McDermott says that could range from administrative paperwork to restocking the rigs with proper supplies, being on hand for events like the borough’s summer concert series and taking part in the annual Sept. 11, 2001, remembrance.

“To join NAVES, one doesn’t need to be a resident of North Arlington.

The training is free to our members. NAVES shifts are 12 hour shifts, we stay and sleep at the building , whether it’s 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. or 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

“While you may think working holidays can’t be fun or being away from family, I can assure you it’s an awesome time from members cooking amazing meals or having our very own family members with us on holidays. Our ages of our members range from 18 to mid 50s. We welcome everyone to inquire about

joining and being a part of something bigger than something you already are.

It’s a great opportunity to become an EMT and it’s also a great way to get the experience and knowledge to use if a member is perusing a further career in medical or emergency services.”

Over time, in addition to the aforementioned training necessary to perform functions at scenes, members also get invaluable onthe-job training from senior members.

“For instance, we like to get the new members to observe,” McDermott says.

“There are things to say to patients and their families, things not say — and seeing that happen, first-hand, is better than any other way of teaching it.”

McDermott says he hopes volunteers would be flexible as far as hours and availability goes, but NAVES will do its best to accommodate schedules, especially where school and work hours are involved.

You’ll have to be able to withstand the sight of blood because, frankly, you’re going to come across it — perhaps in not-so-ordinary ways, too.

That doesn’t mean you’ll be faced with seeing blood every shift, but McDermott says you might also see anything from a simple kitchen injury to a woman fully in birth.

And what you learn as a NAVES member you’ll be able to take with you everywhere you go — and you will be better off from it.

Still, no matter what, everyone who becomes a member will be fully trained, given uniforms (which aren’t cheap, by the way) everyone’s voice will be heard and you’ll become an integral part of an organization whose presence in NA is, literally, vital.

Interested? There are a few things to do next. Check out the squad’s website at www.navesest1972.org, send an email to naves@ naves1972.org, call (201) 991-6060 or stop by headquarters along Schuyler Avenue.

No matter the weather, when residents of North Arlington are in need of medical assistance, NAVES will be there. You can be part of the team, too.

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IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION Opinion....................................................................................Page 6 Sports......................................................................................Page 9 Health & Wellness Directory...............................................Page 11

Obituaries...............................................................................Page 13 Business Directory..........................................................Pages 14-15 Classifieds ....................................................................... Pages 16-17

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Wednesday, September 8, 2021

Sept. 11, 2001, the day I expected to die

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

I

can still remember even the most minute details of Sept. 11, 2001, and I suspect I am hardly alone in that category.

In an instant, that beautiful late-summer September morning, a Tuesday, became, for generations of Americans, the new “I remember exactly what I was doing when I heard President John F. Kennedy got shot” moment.

For me, it was Day 2 of the fourth year of my tenure as a teacher at St. Anthony High School in Downtown Jersey City. Our building, situated on Eighth Street, shared a parking lot with the Jersey City Police Department, a parcel of land with the HazMat Unit of the Jersey City Fire Department and the east side of the school building had stunning, albeit partially obstructed views, of the Twin

9.11.2001 20 YEARS ON Towers of the World Trade Center. That view still haunts me to this day, but more on that later.

En route to the school most days, I took Montgomery Street to get there, and it was if the Towers were the anchors to the street — one on each side. It was an optical illusion, but it was breathtaking, I tell you. It was something to behold.

And it was a view anyone who traveled on Montgomery Street took for granted, especially now.

People traveled the world, near and far, to visit the Twin Towers. Yet there they were, right in our backyard.

That Tuesday was to be the first day I had all five classes. Mondays, I had an

abbreviated schedule. It was the first period of the day.

Pedro Rodriguez, a senior, passed out the syllabus to the entire class for me. He was a great kid, always willing to help. Played on the school’s lesser-known baseball team, too.

A few minutes after we started going over the syllabus, we heard a loud exploding sound. Our presumption was that since we were situated a few short blocks, within eyesight, of the Holland Tunnel, that a truck may have overturned.

So it was no big deal, really.

And it was the kind of sound we heard often. Thing is, something didn’t really sit right.

And that was when CJ Flaherty, my colleague, came into the classroom and said, “Dude, the F-ing World Trade Center just exploded.” At St. Continued on the next page

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Wednesday, September 8, 2021

near the World Trade Center. ple falling out of the windows, The sirens began not too having opted for certain death Anthony, I was known as long after. Hundreds of first over the incomprehensible the joker of the faculty, so I responders were the ones suffering of burning alive or looked at him and laughed, who were able to use the Hol- choking to death. They apand said, “CJ don’t screw land Tunnel that day. No one peared so small, but they were around like that — this isn’t else. These were sounds that, so brave. Many kids watched even funny.” to this very day, occasionally as the South Tower came His look, however, was haunt me, even if I know it’s down first, followed by the nothing close to funny — so just ambulance going to a demise of the North Tower I went outside to look for routine call or the FD on a not that long thereafter. myself — and I wound up paramedic run. It lasted for The smoke from what staring into the north side of hours, the entire time we became known as Ground the north tower, this gaping were in session that day, until Zero was as sickening a sight hole of multiple floors, that we all were out of there round or smell as one could ever had insufferable black smoke 4 p.m. imagine. It flowed to the and vivid orange flames just As the schedule would have south, almost appearing to be shooting out of it. By this it, I had classes Periods 1 to 3. attracted by Lady Liberty in point, you could already smell I wouldn’t have a break until the Harbor of Jersey City. the smoke which was making 11:04 a.m. And, whether this By 11 a.m. that day, peoits way across the Hudson is a benefit or a curse, I still ple whose days started off River. It’s a smell that lindon’t know — none of the in Lower Manhattan began gered, and only got worse, as classrooms I was teaching in flowing by the school buildadvertising@theobserver.com the months passed 201-991-1600 by. It was a that day faced east. ing. Some were covered, head scent I could never forget. r: Client: The windows on all three to toe, in ash. Others were After gazing at the hole for rooms I was in looked north. bloodied. Some struggled to what was probably only about And so, despite not having walk and needed the help of 30 seconds — it seemed like a TV on, two towers were others just to remain standan eternity, the visions thereof hit within an earshot, both ing. They had all taken ferries etched on my brain — I went somehow collapsed, and I saw across the Hudson to get back back inside and did all I could nothing but the gaping hole to Jersey. It was a horrific to keep the kids calm. They cause by American Airlines sight — and these were the dvertising: Here is the updated template with a new photo of Jarlynn Hyde: were incredibly well-behaved Flight 11 crashing into the people who had made it out that day, despite several of North Tower early on in the alive. them hailing from Manhattan morning. and a small number having Some of the kids saw peohad parents who worked in or Continued from previous page

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I couldn’t help, even by 11 a.m., but think of how many of those people narrowly escaped with their lives. How many of them knew someone killed. I wondered how many of the cars that were parked on the street might never get moved because they were driven there by people who didn’t get out of the Towers.

And if you remember, the City’s Mayor, Rudolph W. Giuliani, asked for 10,000 body bags initially. Could that many people really have died? Fortunately, if you could say that even, fewer than 3,000 died that day. Tens of thousands got out, itself a minor miracle.

But that very day, when so many people left their homes so innocently that morning, never to return, when so many cops and firefighters were killed just because they were doing their jobs, when airplanes were used as Kamikaze weapons by religious zealots who thought they were doing the right thing, all these years later, I still find myself asking why it had to happen.

I still ask myself how the hell it happened. I still long for that day to turn into dream, to wake up one morning to find the Towers are still there and it was all just a nightmare.

But it was real. It did happen.

So much that day was fluid.

The news had reports of planes heading to the White House — perhaps that was the intended target of the hijackers of United Flight 93, which took off from Gate 17 of Terminal B at Newark Liberty International Airport, a gate I often used to travel to and from Florida when that was my home.

There were reports of car bombs outside the Department of State. They actually thought a third plane was en route to Manhattan, perhaps a reinforcement to get the towers toppled — though we would later learn there wasn’t a third plane and the towers didn’t need such flights to bring them down.

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Wednesday, September 8, 2021

Thoughts & Views EDITORIAL

School supplies from Salvation Army

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

S

ept. 11, 2001 — in three days, it will have been 20 years in the past. It’s unfathomable to imagine that, really, because for so many, that day’s memories seem like they were a week ago.

Twemty years ago, our world changed, some for the better, some not for the better. But if there was one thing that came out of that unspeakable horror, it was the way this country united.

For months, there were no Republicans. No Democrats. We were just Americans, united in ways probably not seen since World War II — and in ways we have not seen since.

Remember it? Remember how calm it was on the area’s roads and how people were kind to each other? Remember that shop at the foot of Schuyler Avenue that sold American Flags and that couldn’t keep up with the demand for more? Remember how those flags seemed to be on every home, business and vehicle?

Remember how much we cared for each other without regard to anything but being American?

All these years later, with so much vitriol in this country, whether it’s in Washington, D.C., Minnesota, Wisconsin, Oregon, or at the Statehouse or in our own neighborhoods, couldn’t we use that kind of care and kindness we had for each other right about now?

Wouldn’t it just be nice even if it lasted for a few days?

Two decades after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, maybe we could all take a moment or two to step back by calling to mind what our world was like that year in September, October, November.

If we could just rekindle that spirit, is there any doubt our world would be a better place right now?

May all who lost their lives Sept. 11, 2001, continue to live in God’s grace and peace.

The Salvation Army of Greater Kearny, with the help of a few local businesses, UNICO, the Kearny PBA and the Kearny FMBA, recently distributed school supplies and other items to school children at no cost. Here, a child receives a bag from Anna Marie Latushko, president of the Kearny UNICO chapter.

Frantantoni asks Murphy why he should pull the lever for him Dear Gov. Murphy: I will soon have to make a decision on who I vote for the next governor. I need to know some facts and your position on some issues.

First, because we finished the current year with a huge surplus, will you be reducing the size of your proposed outrageous budget? And no, we do not need an increase in the Homestead Rebate program.

Many of us know this is just another political scheme that started in 1976 when the state income tax was passed.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR The Homestead Rebate was intended to be a one-year program to transition us from local taxes for education to the state income tax to fund our schools. (Article 8 section 4.1) But the politicians soon realized this could be a big political bonanza for them and they made the program permanent.

Now we have two funding

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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

sources for education — the income tax and still the local school taxes. Remember, Trenton must have a balanced budget, so you cannot give us some cash unless you take some from us first.

Second question. Do you support CRT (Critical Race Theory) and the 1619 Project being taught in our schools?

Simple enough?

Two little questions I am sure you can answer quickly so I can decide my vote.

Vincent J. Frantantoni Belleville

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

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KPD: Loudmouth Walmart shopper stole, had warrant

By Capt. Tim Wagner Kearny Police Department

O

n Aug. 26 at 3:11 p.m., Officers Rich Poplaski Jr., John Donovan, Chris Manolis and Sgt. Jay Ward responded to Walmart on a report of an unruly man yelling at store customers. Walmart staff pointed out the man, Quadir Mitchell, 42, of Sayreville.

Officer Poplaski recognized Mitchell as a party to an earlier dispute with another customer at the same store.

Mitchell was reportedly argumentative and verbally aggressive with the officers who received several reports he had been yelling at Walmart customers and staff. Asked to leave the store, Mitchell reportedly refused to do so until someone rang up his merchandise.

A manager stepped in to personally ring up Mitchell, but the man reportedly became argumentative again when that manager was not authorized to add money to his prepaid credit card and had to refer him to a different store department. All parties reached a stalemate when Mitchell again allegedly refused to leave the store.

Officers found Mitchell was wanted on a bench warrant for a resisting arrest charge issued by the Camden County Superior Court. Officers arrested Mitchell who reportedly resisted by pulling his hands away, bending at the waist, and continually reaching for an item concealed in the front of his waistband. The officers retrieved that item, finding it to be a battery charger. Officers eventually were able to handcuff Mitchell by the use of a compliance hold.

A search incident to arrest revealed Mitchell had several items of unpaid-for merchandise concealed on his person.

Walmart loss-prevention staff reviewed video footage of Mitchell allegedly taking and concealing the merchandise in the store, but they declined to prosecute.

Mitchell was charged for the current incident with defiant trespass and resisting arrest. He was taken to a local hospital for a medical evaluation and then held for Camden County authorities.

On Aug. 26 at 10:01 p.m., Officer Jose Perez-Fonseca and Sgt. Tom Pontrella were dispatched to a possible stabbing at a Johnston Avenue home. There, they arrived to find a 17-year-old boy with a minor puncture wound to his thigh and red marks on his face, consistent with having been punched.

The boy told police he had fled from a different home in town where he had been injured after intervening in a fight. The boy claimed he had been punched by a male assailant who then threw a knife at him, which created the puncture wound on his thigh.

Officer Jose Castillo and Dets. Tim Castle and Dave Bush went to the home where the alleged fight had occurred. There, they arrested Edgar F. Barrero Menendez, 28, of Kearny and charged him on a summons with aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of a child and weapons-possession offenses.

He was later released.

••• The police department made the following domestic violence arrests this week: See KPD, Page 19

Sept. 19 dinner at Fiesta will mark Kearny UNICO chapter’s 60th anniversary The Kearny Chapter of UNICO National will celebrate its 60th anniversary with a dinner on Sunday, Sept. 19, 2021, at 2 p.m., at the Fiesta in Wood-Ridge, Anna Marie Latushko, president of the chapter, said. As part of the celebration, Past President Louis Pandolfi

and the memory of Past President Joseph P. Sgalia will be recognized for their 25 Years of “Service Above Self.”

Tickets to the event may be obtained by contacting Celeste Pandolfi at (201) 368-2409 or (201) 693-8504.

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Sports & Recreation WITH

Jim Hague

9

Belleville prepares for new season on new field

ogsmar@aol.com

Lyndhurst boys’ soccer turns to Abu Hakmeh to lead the way When Denis Jelcic decided to step away from his coaching duties at Lyndhurst High School to concentrate on his family in Croatia, the athletic program needed a new head boys’ soccer coach to keep the Golden Bears moving in the right direction.

So they turned to a familiar face in the local soccer scene.

Emad Abu Hakmeh, a Lyndhurst resident who was once the head coach at neighboring North Arlington before stepping down in 2010, has made a comeback to take over the Golden Bears. It was truly a stroke of incredible luck.

“When I left coaching North Arlington High School, I went to coaching rec (recreation) with my daughters,” Abu Hakmeh said. “But we just sent our youngest (of five children) off to college. When the position opened, my kids all kind of teamed up on me to apply. I guess all things just came together at the right time. I couldn’t say ‘No.’” Abu Hakmeh already knew most of the players, considering he coached them on the recreation travel level.

“I coached these kids when they were younger,”

Abu Hakmeh said. “This team is very competitive.

It’s a quality group of players. And I have a very good coaching staff.”

Abu Hakmeh will be assisted by Jorge Amaral and Robert Dasler, with former Golden Bear standout Jason Thorne heading the junior varsity squad.

As for the Golden Bears, junior Lucas Baroni is the goalkeeper, but freshman Matthew Makar will get some playing time in net.

“He’s shown some promise as a freshman,” Abu Hakmeh said.

The Golden Bears have a lot of experience in the back line, which will feature five standouts.

Senior Luis Yolinas has been a starter for the Golden Bears for the last three seasons. He’s a rock solid defender.

Junior Nick Aranvitakis is another returning starter along the backline.

“Those two are the center backs,” Abu Hakmeh said.

Senior Matthew Martins is a team captain and another team leader.

“He could also play in the center,” Abu Hakmeh said. “They’re all interchangeable.”

See VIEW, Page 11

Photo by Jim Hague

The Belleville High School football team has high hopes for the 2021 season, playing on a new field surface. From left are Terence Folkes, Eliseo Polanco, Tayshaun Holland, head coach Jermain Johnson, Jacob Santo Domingo, Sterling Fernandez and Juan Minaya.

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

BELLEVILLE – Jermain Johnson doesn’t even want to think about another season like the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic plagued campaign of 2020.

“It was so unpredictable,” said Johnson, who guided the Buccaneers to a start, stop and start again 2-4 schedule of a year ago. “We didn’t know how things were going to play out. The unknown was horrible.”

There was first the delay of the start of the season into October. The Bucs started off the season with wins against Millburn and Newark East Side. The prospects looked good for the remainder of the fall.

However, a positive COVID-19 test shut the Bucs down for three weeks.

“We were shut down and couldn’t do anything for those three weeks,” said Johnson,

who was set to begin his fourth season last Saturday against Barringer at Newark Schools Stadium. “When we got back on the field, we didn’t know who we were preparing for. We were playing on a whim. It wasn’t good for anyone. There was no consistency at all.”

When the Buccaneers returned to action in November, they had to endure four straight losses to end the truncated schedule, including a 42-7 setback to neighboring rival Nutley Thanksgiving weekend, a loss that sealed an undefeated season for Nutley.

Needless to say, the Buccaneers were not a happy bunch.

“The kids all had a bad taste in their mouths,” Johnson said. “When the season ended, it was just unfortunate how things transpired. We had to take one on the chin in order to get better. The kids who were coming back all understood that they had to work hard for the next

year. They worked hard in the weight room in order to get better. They have goals that they want to attain. They want to make some history.”

Leading the way for the 2021 Bucs is talented junior quarterback Brent Rojas (5foot-9, 185 pounds).

“He can throw and he can run,” Johnson said of Rojas. “He’s our best athlete.

We really don’t have a true quarterback. Brent is more of a running back that we made into a quarterback. He just adds to the athletes we have in the backfield.”

The lead running back is senior James Cook (5-10, 185), who had some moments of brilliance last year.

“He’s an explosive runner,” Johnson said of Cook. “He’s very talented. He will be our feature back. He’s really on a different level and he will definitely play college football.”

Sophomore Ezekiel Pina (5-10, 185) is another talented See BELLEVILLE, Page 10

10

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

scrimmage.

“He’s going to touch the ball quite a bit,” Johnson said Continued from Page 9 of Pina. “He also has very good hands catching passes.” running back.

Senior Terence Folkes (6-2, “He has a lot of potential,” 240) is a physical specimen Johnson said. “He’s very of a fullback. talented.”

Senior Al Horne (6-2, 160) Pina showed his explosive- is the team’s premier wide ness with an electric 60receiver. yard touchdown run against “He’s a special kid,” JohnBloomfield in their game

BELLEVILLE

son said of Horne. “He was First Team All-League (SCIL Freedom White) as a punter last year. He’s a good route runner. He’s one of our best athletes.”

Senior Brian Dessources (6-1, 200) is another wide receiver.

“He’s one hell of an athlete,” Johnson said of Desssources. “He’s just coming

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into his own.”

Senior Najee Harris (5-10, 170) is a transfer from East Orange who is eligible to play right away.

“He’s another athlete for our team,” Johnson said.

Senior Chris Vitale (5-9, 180) rounds out the Bucs’ deep receiving corps.

“He can play a lot of positions for us,” Johnson said of Vitale. “He can play tight end or slot receiver. He’s very versatile.”

The offensive line is very young, but Johnson said “shows a lot of promise.”

The tackles are sophomore Juan Minaya (6-6, 290) and junior Eliseo Polanco (6-2, 240). Junior Tayshaun Holland (5-11, 235) and sophomore Jericho Perez (5-9, 225) are the guards and senior Jacob Santo Domingo (5-7, 195) is the center.

Defensively, the Bucs will use a 4-4 defensive set.

Folkes, a two-year starter at defensive end, is getting looks from colleges. He’s joined by senior Colin Cook (6-1, 230).

The defensive tackles are sophomore Sterling Fernan-

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dez (5-10, 210) and Polanco.

The inside linebackers are Santo Domingo and senior Markeith Stevens (5-10, 210), a captain on the team.

“He’s a ball hawk,” Johnson said of Stevens.

The outside linebackers are Harris and James Cook.

That is an electric duo to watch at that slot.

The cornerbacks are Pina and Horne and the safety is Dessources.

There’s another thing to be excited about. Belleville Municipal Stadium and Doc Ellis Field has received a major facelift with brand new state-of-the-art FieldTurf surface. The complex will be christened Friday night when rival Nutley comes calling. The game is scheduled for 7 p.m.

“There will be a lot of people at that game,” Johnson said. “I have a good feeling about this team. I feel that this team has a good chance to contend. If we stay healthy, we can be pretty good this year. But we’re taking it one week at a time.”

It should be an exciting time for Belleville football.

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11

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VIEW

Continued from Page 9 Sophomore Tyler Wise is an outside back with a ton of talent and promise.

“He’s a complete player,” Abu Hakmeh said. “He’s like our wild card. He can play anywhere.”

The other back position will be shared by senior Matthew Rudd and freshmen Andrew Carrion and Bartu Akar.

“Matthew could play the midfield,” Abu Hakmeh said.

“The freshmen have good skills.”

In the midfield, the Golden Bears have three junior center midfielders with a lot of experience and talent.

Ali Celik has a powerful leg and a great sense of seeing the entire field. Jonas Amaral is the son of assistant coach Jorge and has played on all different levels around northern New Jersey. Thomas Rogan rounds out the talented trio. Celik and Rogan have been varsity players for three seasons.

“It’s not a bad group to

Photo by Jim Hague

The Lyndhurst boys’ soccer team is poised to have another successful season with new coach Emad Abu Hakmeh (back row, far left). Front row, from left, are Nick Kaden, Bartu Akar, Joseph Alvarez and Nicholas Arvanitakis. Back row, from left, are Andrew Carrion, Luis Yolianes, Matt Makar, Matthew Rudd and Emad Abu Hakmeh.

have,” Abu Hakmeh said.

On the front line, senior Enrique Atsoli has returned after missing all of last season with an injury. Atsoli will be one of the top scorers in the NJIC this season.

Senior Seif Meky and freshman Isaac Camilo will see

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a lot of time, as will senior Aidan McCann give depth on Koral DeLeon. the front line. Freshman CipJuniors Nicholas Caden and rian Niedbal is another player

with immense potential.

The Golden Bears are scheduled to open their season Sept. 9 against Dwight Englewood.

All in all, Abu Hakmeh’s return to varsity soccer after sitting out the last 11 years should be successful, like he never missed a beat.

“I think the most important thing is that the kids are so well behaved,” Abu Hakmeh said. “They work hard and they’re very coachable. They listen and learn and that’s a great sign. That’s half the battle.”

Abu Hakmeh is ready for his comeback.

“I have been familiar with the program and familiar with the kids,” Abu Hakmeh said.

“I know the expectations that I have in them and I know the expectations that they have of me.”

And the expectations that everyone has? Basically a winning program as always in Lyndhurst.

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12 Nutley girls’ soccer: Living in the tough world of the SEC The Observer | www.theobserver.com

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com Mike DiPiano knows full well that the schedule maker is never kind to the veteran Nutley High School girls’ soccer coach.

“Our schedule is not forgiving,” DiPiano said. “We’re in the same league (the Super Essex Conference-American Division) with some of the best teams in the state.”

DiPiano is not kidding. The Maroon Raiders reside with teams like Montclair, West Orange, Montclair Kimberley Academy, Livingston and West Essex, teams that will be ranked among the top 20 squads in the state.

“We have West Essex and West Orange right out of the gate,” DiPiano said. “We’re going to be tested right away.

But we play everybody and we’re not afraid of anybody.

We know that we have to put up or shut up. We have to make the next step. We have a good group of seniors who come into this season with

Photo by Jim Hague

The Nutley Maroon Raiders have a strong defensive contingent. Front, from left, are Cameron Coffaro, Rachel Echeverria, Taylor Hughes and Nikki Cicchetti. Back row, from left, are Marcella Blancato, Allie Huelbig, Catalina Robson, Elizabeth DeSantis, Bryanna Martins and head coach Mike DiPiano.

lofty expectations. It’s their turn and they’d like to win something before they go.

Our conference is tough, our county (the Essex County Tournament) is tough and our state section (the Maroon Raiders go back to the NJSIAA North Jersey Section 2, Group III bracket this year) is tough.”

Needless to say, the Ma-

roon Raiders are walking into tough waters, but they are ready for the challenge.

Leading the way is junior goalkeeper Catalina Robson, who has been the starter in net for the last two seasons.

“She’s a very talented keeper,” DiPiano said.

Ironically, Robson’s backup is her sister Brielle, a freshman. Sophomore Ellie De-

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Santis is another net minder in the Maroon Raiders’ camp.

“We’ve hadn’t had depth like this at goalkeeper,” DiPiano said. “We have three who can get the job done. I’m toying with ideas of using all of them.”

Junior Taylor Hughes returns to her role as the team’s sweeper and junior Emma Chimento is the team’s stopper.

“They’re both very tough,” DiPiano said. “They give us toughness in the middle of the field.”

Senior Rachel Echeverria is a defensive wing with offensive skills. She’s a speedy defender who has been a three-year starter.

“She helps us out tremendously out wide,” DiPiano said. “She’s very skilled.”

Junior Cameron Coffaro is a converted forward that has been shifted to the backline.

“I like what I’m seeing from her,” DiPiano said of Coffaro. “She adds some skill there and makes us more dangerous.”

Another defender is senior Allie Huelbig who will fit into the mix on the backline.

DiPiano said that the Maroon Raiders are blessed to have three players who can handle the duties of center

midfielder.

Senior Sydney Hess, senior Olivia Real and freshman Brooke Yero are all capable ball handlers and ball strikers in the midfield.

“Hess and Real have started since their freshman year,” DiPiano said. “Brooke has a very bright future ahead of her.”

Senior Rebecca Echeverria, Rachel’s identical twin, is also a midfielder who led the Maroon Raiders in goals last year with eight.

Emma Kirby is a junior transfer from Florida who is fitting in so well with her new surroundings.

“She comes from a soccer family,” DiPiano said of Kirby. “She is going to help us.”

On the front line, senior Mackenzie Albert has tallied more than 50 goals in her career. She has already accepted a scholarship to Iona College and will play soccer there next year. But before she heads off to New Rochelle, she has one final go-round with the Maroon Raiders. Albert is one of the best two-way players in the tough and rumble world of the SEC American.

See SOCCER, Page 14

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JOIN PATHWAYS TO INDEPENDENCE

WALK-A-THON

A Message from the Harrison Water Department: The Harrison Water Dept. will flush hydrants throughout Harrison beginning the week of September 20th 2021. Crews will work Monday through Friday between 9pm and 1am to minimize customer inconvenience. The flushing program is expected to last for about 6 weeks. Ending October 29, 2021.

Flushing removes harmless minerals that collect in the water mains. The project is part of the Town routine maintenance program to assure high water quality. Flushing hydrants help to maintain the integrity of the distribution system by keeping the water lines clean. It is also necessary for fire protection because flushing ensures that the hydrants are working properly.

During the flushing process, customers may experience low water pressure or discolored water.

While the water is safe to drink, customers may prefer to wait until it runs clear before drinking, washing clothes or dishes.

Residents with questions or problems can call the Harrison Department of Public Works at 973-268-2468. Website townofharrisonnj.com

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Help us help them by participating in the Walk-A-Thon.

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Wednesday, September 8, 2021

13

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Obituaries JOHN AIELLO

Monday by 10AM

Deadline for Obituaries is

John Aiello of Boynton Beach, Florida, formerly from Kearny died Aug. 26.

John graduated from Kearny High School and received a master’s degree in music from Jersey City State College. He was a member of the American School of Music taught in Spain, Brazil and Japan.

Returning back to Florida, he taught for 35 years as a music teacher at the Pinecrest School in Boynton Beach, Florida, and also was

the music band director, retiring two years ago.

He is survived by his wife, Jennifer; brothers James, his wife Patrica, Jerry, his wife Mary, Joe, wife Ann Marie, sister, Mary Ann Milordo, and husband, Joe. Also surviving many nieces and nephews and his precious granddaughters, Kayla and Jacqueline.

VICTORIA KINEL

Victoria Kinel died at home Aug. 31, 2021.

She was 98.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home in Kearny. Mass was celebrated at Queen of Peace Church, North Arlington.

Burial was in Holy Cross

Cemetery, North Arlington.

Victoria was the wife of the late Joseph Murray and the late Joseph Kinel. Mother of William Murray (late Nina) and Kathleen Kaminski (Paul). Sister of Dorothy Contini, she is also survived by her grandchildren Audra Murray, Heather Murray, Michael Kaminski and Matthew Kaminski (Kayleigh). She was great-grandmother of Randy Martin (Kristen) and great-great grandmother of Colton and Ashton Martin.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

CAROL MEISSNER

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

She was 84.

Her funeral service will take place Tuesday morning at 11 a.m. in the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny.

Carol was very involved with the Compassionate Friends. This group is a nationwide support group for those who have lost a child. After the loss of her son Jack, she found much solace and comfort with them. She was a moderator and had many friends

from many states.

Wife of John H. Meissner, she was the mother of Robert Meissner (Michelle), Patricia Casey (Michael) and the late Jack Meissner (Diane).

Sister of Al Dean (Evelyn) , she is also survived by her grandchildren Robert, Jason, Jennifer and Andrew along with her loving nieces and nephews; Leslie, Amy, Beth, Wendy and Michael.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Autism Speaks.

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Happy 31st Birthday in Heaven On September 11, when the world is remembering other historic events, the family and friends of Sarah will remember her. We will remember her smile, her laugh and her overwhelming charity and goodness. We still laugh at her antics and enjoy all the beautiful memories. Her ideals were simple and peaceful. Imagine if we all could duplicate her ideals, her birthday might be the only historic event we celebrate this day.

God Bless you Sarah and Happy 31st Birthday.

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14

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

SOCCER

Continued from Page 12 Seniors Natalie Rufino and Mikalya Schoch are experi-

enced players who have been with the varsity for all four years.

“They all have the ability to put the ball in the net,” DiPiano said. “They have played a

lot and also scored goals.”

Junior Marcella Blancato is what DiPiano called “a hybrid.”

“I can put her all over the field,” DiPiano said.

The Maroon Raiders have

Wednesday, September 8, 2021

a deep bench that includes seniors Nikki Cicchetti and Sydney Silver and juniors Isabella Ortega, Rebecca Reid and Mia DiPiano, the coach’s daughter.

The Maroon Raiders won eight times in last season’s wild truncated slate. Even in the SEC American, the Maroon Raiders should win more times this time around.

3 ways to fuse art and nature in your home (StatePoint) Beyond sprucing up your work and living environs, there’s certainly much to love about houseplants, whether it’s the simple act of taking care of something or the fact that some varietals can even improve the air quality in your home (peace lilies, we’re looking at you).

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year: • Befriend color. When it comes to pots for your greenery, succulent and shrubs, you may think neutral is the way to go.

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IDA UNLEASHES ON THE AREA Just moments later, there were reports of a minor fire in East Newark.

Perhaps of most concern were reports of an ambulance, with patients on board taking in water, also on Rt. 280.

On Thursday, Sept. 2, The Observer’s Lisa Feorenzo, traveling on Rt. 21

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

A pick-up attempts to navigate the floods of Passaic Avenue, Harrison, as a man wades in the water on the other side of the street.

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

T

hink about this for a moment: When Ida hit land in Louisiana, she was a Category 4 Hurricane with wind gusts at 185+ MPH. By the time she reached Jersey Wednesday, Sept. 1, she was severely diminished. And still, somehow, at least 23 New Jerseyans lost their lives from the fury, Gov. Philip D. Murphy said. Locally, the damage was almost unfathomable.

There were two roof collapses at the U.S. Postal Facility at 1200 Harrison Ave., Kearny, leading to 10 injuries, the most serious of which were two broken ankles. Seven of the 10 hurt were transported to area hospitals, police here said.

Tony Mondaro, of the Harrison Weather Center, reported more than 8 inches of rain fell, leading to massive floods on Frank E. Rodgers Boulevard South, Passaic Avenue, Davis Avenue and elsewhere.

The flooding was so bad over by

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South, found cars all over the highway, completely abandoned, from the night before. The same could be said of River Road in North Arlington and in countless other spots.

Nutley’s Office of Emergency Management, meanwhile, reported significant damage town-wide.

the PATH stations that people were seen kayaking along the Boulevard.

PATH train service was suspended in both directions well into the following day, Thursday, Sept. 2.

The Observer, meanwhile, listened in to the West Hudson area fire scanner and there were several incidents of great concern at the time.

It, of course, started with the postal building roof collapse. After an initial collapse, a secondary collapse of a roof piece 30x30 feet, was reported, leading to Kearny Fire Chief Joseph P. Mastandrea evacuating the entire building.

At around 8:30 p.m. (most of the following reports were dated Sept.

2) authorities reported several utility poles were down in the area of the WMCA radio transmitter along the Belleville Turnpike. The roadway had to be closed, in both directions, because the down wires were live and the poles were in the roadway.

At around 9:30 p.m., scanner reports indicated there were numerous vehicles floating in the area of the Harrison exit off Rt. 280 West.

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16

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Wednesday, September 8, 2021

17

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.

Stable and SAFE work environment and a chance to grow with a solid company •SKILLED CLIMBER & EXPERIENCED GROUND GUY •DRIVER

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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 11W09

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Van Drivers $13.56/hr Pathways to Independence in Kearny, NJ is seeking candidates to transport and work with individuals with developmental disabilities. Position is approx 25 hrs per wk, M-F (6:45AM-9AM & 2:15PM-4:30PM), split shift. Must have a valid driver’s license-good driving record, High School diploma or GED required. Experience driving vans preferred, not required. We offer PAID Holidays, Sick time, Vacation& Personal days & potential growth opportunities.

A great work environment and a place you can make a difference for the disabled.

Applicants fill out an application at our main office M-F 8:30A-3:30P located at 60 Kingsland Ave, Kearny, NJ 07032 or email resume to arykowski@pathwaysnj.org EOE

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Building Maintenance Worker Low Pressure Boiler License Preferred (or must be able to attain within one year after employed). Full time position.

Medical, pension and other benefits. Successful candidate will have general knowledge of hand tool use, plumbing, carpentry and basis electricity.

Must pass background check.

Must have a valid NJ driver’s license.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Applications can be obtained from the Housing Authority’s website www.harrisonhousing.com, under the Bid/RFP/RFQ/Job Application Section or by calling our office (973) 483-1488 to make an appointment to come in and pick up an application.

All applications must be returned no later than Friday, September 24, 2021 by 3 PM. 18W01

17W03

FULL TIME Looking for a P & C license agent or someone with experience must be bilingual in Harrison,NJ Willing to Train Send resume to dperez@drp-insurance.com 973-481-0050

Part time Clerk drivers needed to deliver meals-on-wheels to town residents that are unable to purchase or prepare their own meals and to provide transportation services for our dial-a-ride program to go to doctor’s offices and hospitals for appointments. Hours will vary between 9:00am - 4:00pm Monday to Friday approximately 19.5 hours per week.

Must possess a valid NJ driver’s license. $12-$18 per hour per for application see job opportunities on website https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/

Office cleaning person, Mon to Fri, 2:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Drivers license needed for driving company car.

Call 201-705-2442 or 201-306-4367

16W03

15W03

18W03

School delivery driver 4 1/2 hours per day with clean driving record. Cafeteria workers needed/positions in local schools. Hours to be determined.

Please contact Sue/ Josephine at 201-991-6800 ext. 2040

LOOKING FOR A SALES EXECUTIVE TO JOIN OUR TEAM Responsibilities include servicing existing accounts, calling inactive accounts, generating new business and growing territories & building new leads. Background check.

Send resumes with a cover letter of introduction to jobs@theobserver.com

Dental Assistant Wanted M-F Some experience preferred.

Teacher Assistant Must be current with covid vaccine. needed for full Salary comm time position ensurate with at a Christian preschool. experience.

Must have experience Plese send resume to kda615@comcast.net working with preschool 18W03 age children.

Please email resume to mrscarla80@yahoo.com 17W03

16W03

Full Time Pizzeria cook/pizza maker wanted for Harrison & Kearny Area pizzeria Call (973) 380-9007 16W03

Account clerk/ library assistant FT position, 35 hrs wk. Exp pref, valid NJ DL req.

Sal $37,570.

For details and applic, go to www.kearnynj.org.

16W03

Car Painter needed for Body Shop on Schuyler Ave., Kearny.

Experience Preferred Cal and ask for Macario (201) 997-0295 16W03

HALL FOR RENT

15W06

SERVICES OFFERED 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 46W26

House keeping & some care giving.

Must speak Portuguese $12.00 per HR 3 to 4 hours a day up to 7 days a week call (201)679-0761 16W03

OFFICIAL NOTIFICATION ATTENTION: Did you work at Continental Cans Co. in Ridgefield Park, NJ? We would like to speak with anyone that worked at this site between 1965 and 2000.

Please contact our offices at (212)558-5738 17W02

201.991.1600

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

To take a classified ad, please call

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Wednesday, September 8, 2021

18

17

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

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.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

ROOM FOR RENT

KEARNY

KEARNY

What an ad on Craigslist gets you ...

• A free ad • No-shows • Headaches • People from other regions of NJ • scammers What an Observer Classified gets you ...

• local readership • local buyers • Access to thousands of people who support our advertisers • Placement in a 134-year-old newspaper (and on www.theobserver.com) and our paper that readers are loyal each and every week.

Truth is, nothing can compare to our Classified Section. Why take the risk with Craigslist?

Try The Observer’s Classifieds ... and see results right away.

Call us today to place your ad.

(201) 991-1600

KEARNY 3rd Floor. 1 BR, EIK, $1,375 + 1 1/2 months security. Utilities not included. No pets/ smoking. Avl. Now. Credit Check required (973) 309-5773 16W03

KEARNY Furnished room for rent $400/month. Utilites included. no cable. 1 month security. Avl. now.

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KEARNY Big room w.furniture & private Bath.

No smoking/Pets. EveryKEARNY 2nd FL, 3 bed- thing included. Available rooms, utilities separate. now (201)279-9251 17W01 No smoking/No pets call or text (201)543 1382 16W03

MOVING FOR SALE

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Dukes St. Front Hudson Park. Remodeled Hardwood Floors. No pets. $1350 + 1.5 months security. plus utilities. Available October 1st 973-3913868 18W03

Moving away everything must go. 4 Pine Street, North Arlington. call between 10AM - 5PM Monday - Sunday (201)9972073 (201)956-3386 (201)279-9733 16W03

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

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

PLUMBING & HEATING

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PAYLESS ROOFING Roofing - Siding - RepairsSame day service Same phone number for 20 Years

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

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PAINTERS

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FURNITURE SALE Remodeling and getting rid of furniture. Kearny, NJ. Please text me at LYNDHURST (201)658-6597 between 10am-5pm Monday-Sunday and I can send you LYNDHURST 2 BR. Large a list of what is available EIK. Large LR. $1850. H/ 17W03 HW included. Backyard.

Ceramic Tile, Hardwood Floors throughout. FinCAR FOR SALE ished basement available too (973)277-0942 16W03

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Parking available. Single or Couple preferred. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now. Call 10am - 7pm (201)997-2341

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Kitchen and bath remodeling. Carpentry.

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HARRISON 2nd floor 4 bedrooms, LR, Kitchen and bathroom. $1,700/ mth plus 1 mth security.

Utilities Seperate. Background check. (973)4852982 17W03

RUBBISH REMOVAL A-1 AFFORDABLE RUBBISH REMOVAL

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CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

2010 Toyota Highlander 114k miles 3rd row Remote start Car play radio Backup camera Current inspection $13k OBO Call (973)489-1888 16W03

Kevin’s Affordable Painting Sheetrocking, Plastering, Floors, Doors and more.

Very neat and clean.

You will be happy with our service and prices.

Refrences available Senior Discounts Call for the best price (201) 565-6393.

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Lic. #13VH02536200 15W06

PEST CONTROL

PEST CONTROL Exterminating Fast Service • Roaches • Ants • Bed Bugs • Fleas Call 973-932-2092 Licensed and Insured 13W06

18

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

NEWS BRIEFS KEARNY’S SEPT. 11 REMEMBRANCE IS FRIDAY AT ST. STEPHEN’S

Wednesday, September 8, 2021

Kayaking to the PATH train?

South Korea and Japan. It was first discovered in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in Berks County in 2014 and has spread to other counties in as well as to New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, New York, Connecticut and Ohio.

This insect has potential to greatly impact agricultural crops and hardwood trees. It feeds on plant sap of many different plants including grapevines, maples, black walnut and other important plants. While it does not harm humans or animals, it can reduce the quality of life for people living in heavily infested areas.

Report sightings of the fly to the New Jersey Department of Agriculture at www. nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/pi/prog/ pests-diseases/spotted-lanternfly.

The Kearny townwide remembrance marking the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks, takes place Friday, Sept. 10, 2021, at 7 p.m. at St. Stephen’s Church, at the corner of Laurel and Kearny avenues.

All are welcome, regardless of your personal religious tradition.

PHOTOGRAPH, REPORT & SQUASH SPOTTED LANTERNFLIES

The Spotted Lanternfly has made its way to the area and residents are being asked to document seeing them with photos and locations and then are asked to kill the pests whenever possible.

Known scientifically as the Lycorma delicatula, the fly is an invasive planthopper native to China, India, and Vietnam and is known to be in America,

NAVES HOSTING CHALLENGE COIN FUNDRAISER

The North Arlington Volunteer Emergency Squad, NAVES, is hosting a special challenge coin fundraiser.

The limited-edition coins are only $10.

Visit www.naves1972.org, send a private message to the squad on Facebook or send an email to naves@naves1972.org for more information or to buy a coin (at the donations/supporter tab.)

While the image is, indeed, somewhat blurry, it is not an optical illusion.

It is actually a man kayaking northbound on Frank E. Rodgers Boulevard South outside the Harrison PATH stations. What’s remarkable is that if he got out of the kayak, he’d have been about waist deep in the flood waters. The waters, caused by the remainder of what was Hurricane Ida, kept both PATH stations closed well into Thursday, Sept. 2.

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Wednesday, September 8, 2021

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The Observer | www.theobserver.com

9/11

On Sept. 11, 2001, hundreds of injured workers passed by St. Anthony High School, seen here, en route to home. Before the attacks, the North Tower would have been visible in this photo.

Continued from Page 5 That day, a colleague had even informed me that he heard someone say 1010-WINS was reporting a nuclear warhead was en route to the city. I would years later hear WINS’s coverage as it happened that day and never was such a report proffered.

But at the time, everything seemed plausible. Why wouldn’t they, the terrorists (and it was clear by 9:05 a.m. that this was all orchestrated by terrorists) try to ruin us all with a nuclear attack, too?

I remember wondering what it was going to feel like. I was certain death was imminent. Would we all just singe away?

Would it burn? Would it hurt? Fortunately it never happened, but this happened at around 11:15 a.m., so there was a lot left to the day and we were asked not to tell the kids about the possible nuclear attack. I didn’t oblige — if they were going to die, they deserved to know. But again, we know it never happened — so imagine what it was like getting to this point?

Still, and somehow, we all banded together and formed a much stronger, more resilient nation, that at the time seemed unbreakable, following the attacks. It’s why 20 years later, I still watch every time there’s a documentary on Sept. 11, 2001, on TV. It’s why once a year, I watch the as-it-happened footage of the local news that day, reliving it all, as painful as it is.

Are we better off today than we were 20 years ago? There’s not been a repeat — or anything even close — on American soil since. Are we stronger people because of what we lived through that day? I sure hope so. But we must never forget the souls lost that day, whether they were flying on airplanes, sitting in the wrong office at the wrong time, were killed by pancaking collapses. Whatever it was.

Because as cliché as it sounds, whenever we forget our history, we’re doomed to repeat it.

God-willing, may we never have to repeat a day like Sept. 11, 2001, ever again, not today, not tomorrow, not 20 days from now, not 20 years from now. Not ever.

KPD

Continued from Page 7 On Aug. 25, officers arrested a 41-year-old town man after his 71-year-old mother alleged he woke her up asking for drugs and then dragged her out of bed and onto the floor injuring her hand. The man was charged with simple assault. Officers arrested the same man again Aug. 28 for returning to his mother’s home in violation of a temporary restraining order. He was charged with contempt of court in that incident.

On Aug. 27, officers arrested a 27-year-old town woman for allegedly striking her 33-year-old brother in the shoulder with an aluminum baseball bat before head-butting him. She was charged on a summons with aggravated assault, simple assault and weapons-possession charges and later released.

On Aug. 28, officers arrested a 35-year-old town woman for allegedly striking the face

and scratching the chest and face of her girlfriend with her fingernails. She was charged on a summons with simple assault and later released.

On Aug. 29, officers arrested a 33-year-old town man for allegedly pushing his girlfriend during an argument.

As a result of the push, the girlfriend reportedly lost her balance and struck her head on a gate, causing head, neck, back, shoulder and arm pain.

The man was charged by summons with simple assault and later released.

On Sept. 1, officers arrested a 49-year-old town man for allegedly striking his 64-yearold male roommate in the face, which caused bleeding near the victim’s eye. The assailant was charged with simple assault and later released with a summons.

In traffic-related matters, officers arrested five men this week in separate incidents for driving with suspended drivers’ licenses.

Capt. Timothy Wagner is the public-information officer of the Kearny Police Dept.

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20

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Wednesday, September 8, 2021

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