Issuu

Wednesday, 6 April 2022

www.TheObserver.com

Vol. CXXXIV, No. 48

ON THE INSIDE In sports, a look at the NA & Kearny baseball teams and Nutley’s first volleyball team. PAGE 9

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

NA HIRES 3 VETERAN COPS; 2 ARE WOMEN Story & photo by Ron Leir

For The Observer

omen in blue are back anew in North Arlington. For the first time since 2000, the borough Police Department has women included in its ranks – two, in fact. Coinciding with the celebration of March as Women’s History Month, Tiffany Marino and Gabriela Toribio were sworn in March 28 as patrol officers. Also added to the force was Aaron Hensz. The trio, all filling vacancies in the ranks, are transfers from the Paterson Police Department and their oaths were administered by their former boss, Paterson Police Chief Ibrahim “Michael” Baycora, at the borough senior center. North Arlington is getting “three excellent police officers,” Baycora said. Addressing a crowd of the officers’ family members and friends, along with members of the borough police department, Mayor Daniel Pronti said: “We’re very pro-police

What’s going on with Belleville’s trash pickup? By Ron Leir

At the swearing in were, from left, Councilwomen Allison Sheedy, Lynette Cavadas, Chief Scott Hedenberg, new officers Aaron Hensz, Tiffany Marino and Gabriela Toribo, Mayor Daniel H. Pronti and Councilwoman Donna Bocchino.

here,” assuring the new hires, “you’re going to have the backing of the mayor and council … as long as you’re doing your job.” Borough Police Chief Scott Hedenberg added: “This is a small town, a small community. Sometimes we fight

like a family, then we fix it like a family.” In prior years, the borough has imported other bluecoats from Paterson and “they assimilate [to the department’s protocol] and they get it,” he added.

For The Observer

ver since Belleville’s governing body voted to dump its perennial trash collector earlier this year, the township has been beset by trouble. In a March 21 letter to The Observer, Michelle Smith, a resident of the River Mill West Condo Association, said after the township ended its contract with Suburban Disposal, of Fairfield, and hired Galaxy Carting, of Jersey City, as a temporary hauler, “our community and the rest of Belleville have not been receiving regular garbage/recycling collections for two weeks.” Contributing to the delays, Smith said, “our dumpsters were removed and not replaced for a week. The (township) DPW delivered a minimal of ‘loaner’ dumpsters to our property (March 15) and picked up garbage as best they could at that

See COPS, Page 18

See RUBBISH, Page 12

AG’s directive causes police chase to be called off; man cops sought had hollow-point bullets & gun: PD By Capt. Timothy Wagner Kearny Police Department

n March 29 at 1:57 p.m., a Wilson Avenue resident flagged down Officer Pedro Pina to report someone had just stolen her 2021 Dodge Durango SUV while she was warming it up, unoccu-

ME! D N

pied, in front of her home. Moments later, Officer John Donovan spotted a man driving the stolen Durango near Dukes Street and Schuyler Avenue. When Officer Donovan turned on his emergency lights and siren, the driver of the Durango drove away. This required the police officer to

make a quick legal calculation. Under the Attorney General’s new vehicular pursuit policy, issued in December, Officer Donovan could not pursue the vehicle for auto theft alone, a crime that has increased 37% year-to-date statewide since 2021. However, if Officer Donovan knew the alleged

Easter Egg Hunt

car thief was also an un-apprehended defendant for a recent second-degree aggravated assault charge (which the officer did not yet know), then he could have pursued. Or could he? If Officer Donovan knew the man

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Wednesday, April 6, 2022

DeCastro honored for pandemic service By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

earny Councilwoman Marytrine DeCastro was recognized for her diligent work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, as part of the annual Hudson County Women’s History Month Celebration and Award Ceremony Thursday, March 30. The theme this year was “Providing Healing, Promoting Hope,” and that is something she’s done quite a bit on her own time — not just in a pandemic era.

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The councilwoman is also a registered nurse and she quickly sprung into action once the severity of the pandemic became more and more clear. Her commitment has not wavered since. Here’s how she was recognized in the ceremony’s program, which took place in the Brennan Courthouse in Jersey City. “Marytrine DeCastro has lived in the Town of Kearny over 45 years. She is the proud parent of two sons, Jordan and Chad. Marytrine volunteered at West Hudson Hospital where she found her calling to become a

nurse. When the pandemic hit, Marytrine helped manage health care resources including PPE procurement, dedicated hours of medical and health care to patients and residents and secured medical supplies, testing and vaccines. “During the vaccine rollout, Marytrine helped vaccinate thousands of people. She supported continuation of communityhealth services including baby well care and flu clinics, blood drives, virtual Narcan training to combat the opioid crisis, virtual mental-health resources and food-box distribution. Marytrine is a healer, leader, advocate, mentor and problem solver in the field of nursing and a revered public servant. “She possesses values of caring for those in need, compassion and respect for human dignity and is always ready to face the challenges of a changing health care system and make a difference in people’s lives.” In attendance at DeCastro’s award ceremony were Mayor Alberto G. Santos, Council President Carol Jean Doyle and state Sen. Nicholas J. Sacco among many other dignitaries. Sacco and Santos in photo with her.

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Wednesday, April 6, 2022

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Nutley police save woman, 75, from falling victim to elaborate scam By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

woman who thought she might be in trouble because of improper financial activity was instead being swayed by fraudsters — and when she went to a bank to withdraw cash to send to the fraudsters, police swooped in to save the day. Police Director Alphonse Petracco and Chief Thomas Strumolo say the woman could have been swindled out of $40,000. Here’s how it all went down. Strumolo says the Nutley Police Department responded to a local bank Monday, March 28, 2022, after a customer handed a teller a note saying she was being “held hostage — requesting police.” When officers arrived, they discovered the 75-year-old Clifton woman on the phone with a man claiming to be law enforcement investigating fraudulent activity on her account. The woman was instructed to stay on the call with him while she withdrew $40,000 to transfer into a “secure” account accessible by him. Nutley officers quickly intercepted the call and severed communications between the woman and the fraudster. Fortunately, she was able to redeposit the funds without any loss.

POLICE BEAT Strumolo says this is a common scam where the caller portrays a reputable firm or agency acting in the best interest of the victim. They then access money either through wire transfers, gift cards (from Target, Walmart, Apple, Google Play) or sometimes in person. “Fortunately, police were able to intervene before the transfer was made,” Strumolo said. He said the call could not be traced because the fraudsters use unidentifiable phones and computers to place these calls, with apps like TextNow or Google Voice. A good number of the scams originate overseas, primarily from India. “It saddens me to see fraudsters take advantage of anyone, particularly our elders, who are trusting and less suspicious,” Petracco said. “I commend the Clifton woman for recognizing something was amiss and alerting authorities.” Editor’s note: A reminder — gift cards may never be used to pay debts, utilities, bail for someone jailed, etc. Ever. The IRS never asks for gift cards to be used to pay taxes. PSE&G won’t cut off your electricity if you don’t go to Target for a gift card.

HCCC Spring 2022

A choose your own adventure event! Find your passion at our Spring 2022 Open House where you will have access to explore different academic programs and their buildings in person!

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

3/25/22 8:56 AM

Obituaries..........................................................................................Page 15 Classifieds ��Pages 16-17 Business Dir.................................................................................Pages 18

4 Kearny Dems running 2 newcomers, 2 incumbents The Observer | www.theobserver.com

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

The Kearny Democratic Party recently announced a full slate for the Town Council seats that will be on the ballot in the June 2022 primary election. Incumbents Peter Santana (Second Ward) and Eileen Eckel (Third Ward) are joined by newcomers George Zapata (First Ward) and Stathis Theodoropoulos (Fourth Ward). Kearny Mayor Alberto G. Santos, who was re-elected to office last year, endorsed the ticket, noting, “We are very fortunate to have four highly qualified candidates who can serve the residents of Kearny with the utmost professionalism and integrity.” For purposes of choosing its local government representatives, the Town of Kearny is districted into four wards with two council representatives from each ward. The terms of office are staggered so that only half the Council runs for office in an election cycle.

Santana has been serving on the Town Council since 2017. He is the Chairman of the Police Committee and is a member of the Town Recreation Committee. He is employed as the Director of Technology for the Harrison school district and resides on Davis Avenue with his wife Renata and son Liam. Eckel has been serving on the Town Council since 2005. She is the Chairwoman of the Kearny Fire Committee and serves as the Council liaison to the Kearny Library Board of Trustees. She is employed as an educator in the Fair Lawn school district and resides on Rutherford Place with her husband Tom. Zapata serves as the Vice President of the Kearny Board of Education and is a Commissioner on the Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority. A graduate of Kearny High School and Rutgers University in New Brunswick, where he majored in political science and economics, he is employed as a paralegal. George resides on Woodland

Avenue. Stathis “Stat” Theodoropoulos is also a graduate of Kearny High School and Rutgers University in New Brunswick, where he studied environmental and business economics. He is the founder and principal of a successful business, Firefly Lighting, and is a member of the NJ Hellenic Heritage Commission and Chamber of Commerce. He grew up on Elm Street and now lives on Beech Street. Santos says he’s disappointed Councilmembers Albino Cardoso in the First Ward and Susan McCurrie in the Fourth Ward opted not to run for re-election for personal reasons. “Albino and Susan were instrumental to our record of achievement. They will remain involved in local government but in less active roles,” the mayor said. “They will also assist George Zapata and Stathis Theodoropoulos in their runs for office to ensure residents continue to have effective representation at Town Hall.” The deadline to file petitions was Monday, April 4, at 5 p.m. At press-

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

time, the four aforementioned candidates were the only Democrats to file for the seats in Kearny. However, Sydney J. Ferreira, who ran unsuccessfully mayor last year, announced just this week he intends to seek the seat McCurrie currently occupies — in November. “By running in the Democratic primary last year, I was asking my independent and Republican friends and neighbors to throw aside their deep-rooted ideologies and party affiliations in favor of my own. How could I ask others to do something that I was unwilling to do myself?” Ferreira wrote in a letter to The Observer. “Therefore, I have decided that this time around, in the spirit of unity and to demonstrate my willingness to work with everyone, I will set aside my own party affiliation. I will run for the Fourth Ward Council Seat now occupied by Councilwoman Susan McCurrie, as an independent candidate, in the general election, in November.” Ferreira’s full letter may be seen at www.theobserver.com.

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Kearny PD promotes two new sergeants & one new lieutenant By Ron Leir

For The Observer

hree veteran law enforcement officers were elevated in rank during ceremonies at Kearny Town Hall on March 22. Sgt. Joseph Vulcano was promoted to lieutenant at an annual salary of $141,128; and Patrolmen Dean Gasser and Timothy Castle were upgraded to sergeant, each at a yearly pay level of $132,826. The three promotions, all in advertising@theobserver.com 201-991-1600 line with state Civil Service

procedures, took effect March 23. Police Chief George King said these latest personnel actions, ratified by the mayor and Town Council, are designed to fill police roster slots previously vacated through retirements. “It also keeps our T.O. (Table of Organization) at seven lieutenants and 17 sergeants,” the chief noted. The department is currently in the process of doing background checks on candidates for new hires in

Observer

Client:

Photo by Barbara B. Goldberg

At the recent police promotions were, from left, Councilmen Rich Konopka, Peter Santana, Deputy Chief Scott Macfie, Castle, Vulcano, Gasser, Chief George King, Councilman Gerald ‘Jerry’ Ficeto and Mayor Alberto G. Santos

the patrolman ranks to fill openings there, he added. Here are abbreviated biographies on the newly promoted individuals: Vulcano was born and

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A Message from the Harrison Water Department: The Harrison Water Dept. will flush hydrants throughout Harrison beginning the week of April 4th 2022. 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 May 13th 2022.

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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 or washing clothes or dishes. Residents with questions or problems can call the Harrison Water Department at 973-268-2468. Website www.townofharrisonnj.com.

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Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Opinion & Viewpoints OP-ED By Steven L. Rogers

Nutley

here is enough historical evidence that America’s Founding Fathers strongly believed in a limited period one should serve in an elected office. Simply put, they did not want public officials to become so ingrained in an elective office, that they (the office holder) would become more concerned about their political survival, than about the survival of the people they were called to serve. During the past few years, we Americans have witnessed an erosion of our rights, a disregard for the Constitution, the expansion of our government and abuses of power by elected officials on all levels of government. In this 21st Century we are witnessing the U.S. Congress, state legislatures, municipal governments and even local school boards politicizing critical issues negatively impacting our quality of life. These career politicians have replaced the rule of law with the rule of political power. Sadly, most career politicians have demonstrated that they are more concerned about serving their best interests than the best interests of

the people. I dare to ask millions of Americans, can you honestly name any career politician in Congress for example, if they are, since the day they were elected to office, wealthier than at any time before they entered office. I am sure we all know the answer. I can honestly say they left the American people poorer. When public life becomes a vocation for the political office holder, he or she becomes too secure and comfortable in their position. They become obsessed with the trappings of the office and develop a sense of entitlement, eventually leading to a total disregard for the will of the people. At the birth of our nation, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and other American leaders believed that term limits would prevent political office holders from obsessing with the “trappings of the office.” They believed that term limits would strengthen our nation by limiting the time served by all elected political office holders. I concur with our Founders and agree that a prolonged concentration of power is not good on any level of government, national, state, county,

Doffont Family: Thank you to all who supported us after our great loss LETTER TO THE EDITOR

To the Editor: The family of Vincent John Doffont would like to sincerely thank everyone for their love and support during this difficult time. We especially wish to thank the Harrison Fire and Police departments, Marine Corps, the Hudson County Sheriff ’s Office, the New Jersey State Police, Holy Cross Church and the Mulligan Funeral Home.

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and local. It was Thomas Jefferson who said, “To prevent every danger which might arise to American freedom from continuing too long in office, it is earnestly recommended that we set an obligation on the holder of that office to go out after a certain period.” Connecticut’s Roger Sherman wrote, “Representatives ought to return home and mix with the people. By remaining at the seat of government, they would acquire the habits of the place, which might differ from those of their constituents.” George Mason advised limits on the number of terms anyone can be elected to Congress, “Nothing can be as essential to the preservation of a Republican government as a periodic rotation (of its members).” I second Mason’s statement and go further to suggest that all levels of government should have “periodic rotation.” Citizen legislators no longer exist on many levels of government. What was once viewed as a privilege to serve has been transformed by far too many political office holders into a lifelong career that pays dividends and benefits that most

Americans do not enjoy. Limiting the terms of elected officials will produce citizen legislators of people who reflect the hardworking taxpayers in every home, on every street, and in every neighborhood of this nation. Term-limited elected officials would be more in harmony with public opinion, thus limiting the power of not only the elected official, but the power of the special interests he or she becomes obligated to. Career politicians are not compatible with the vision of good representative government. As time goes on the career politician gives birth to a divide that disconnects them from the people they should be representing. I have no issue with elected officials who keep their commitment to the people on one level of government and upon the expiration of their terms decide to move onto another level. Experienced public officials are an asset to good government. However, once they have served two-terms in one office, they should move on. It has been said that America begins in our homes and

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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

neighborhoods, in the living room and around the kitchen table. Now let me add, the American political system begins on our school boards and in our city halls where citizen legislators and not career politicians should be serving the people. It was Lincoln who said of America, “No one is quite sure whether, in the absence of imaginative leadership, a government so conceived and so dedicated can long endure.” Of course, he was referring to our national government. But one can make that same argument for all levels of government as well. Therefore, after being elected two terms to a municipal government office I walked away. Imaginative leadership would support term limits for the good of our nation, from the city halls across America to the halls of Congress in Washington, D.C. nnn Steven L. Rogers is a former Nutley Commissioner, and retired U.S. Navy Commander, and Nutley Police Lt. He is presently President of Campaign4America.com.

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

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7 Nutley PD: Arrest made in suspected vehicle burglaries

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

utley police have arrested a man suspected of several car burglaries, authorities

said. Police Director Alphonse Petracco and Chief Thomas Strumolo said the reported burglaries happened

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

March 24. Police responded to North Road, Oak Street, Walnut Street and May Place on multiple vehicles that had been burglarized over the early morning hours. Police were able to obtain evidence linking 27-yearold Elijah Augustin with five burglaries to auto and multiple counts of theft and attempted theft. Strumo-

POLICE BEAT lo said Augustin allegedly entered unlocked vehicles during the early morning hours that Thursday. He said it was raining heavily and Augustin could be seen on surveillance holding an

umbrella taken from another vehicle. Strumolo also said there was a burglary to an auto on East Centre Street the same morning where numerous tools were stolen from a work van, but is believed Augustin was not responsible for that job. “This was outstanding work on behalf of the police

and residents that provided surveillance, but I am dismayed people are still not locking their vehicles after numerous alerts and notifications,” Petracco said sternly. Observer Editor Kevin A. Canessa Jr. may be reached at kc@theobserver. com. Follow him on Facebook & Twitter @kevincanessa.

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KPD

Continued from Page 5 a police officer in Kearny, working in the patrol division through 1999 when he was assigned to the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force, continuing with that unit through 2007. From 2007 to 2011, he was assigned to the Kearny Police Department Vice Unit, switching to the patrol unit in 2011. In March 2015, Vulcano was promoted to sergeant and remained with patrol. Vulcano is the recipient of several valor awards, including a lifesaver award. He is married to Katie Vulcano and has two daughters, Gabriella and Gianna, and two step-daughters, Madelynne and Nicol. Gasser is the son of Margaret and Dennis Gasser, the latter having retired from the Kearny Police Department in 2005. Dean is the brother of Kellie and proud father of Devin, Dylan, Dean and Demi. Born in Jersey City, Gasser was raised in Kearny where he attended Roosevelt and Lincoln schools before attending Hudson Catholic High School, followed by a post-graduate year at South Kent Preparatory School in Connecticut. Gasser transferred to the Kearny Police Department in 2003 after having served seven years with the West Milford Police Department and two years with the Hudson County Police Department. During a 28-year career in law enforcement, Gasser has received several commendations. Castle was born in Hoboken and lived there with his family until 1991 when he moved to Bayonne and graduated from Bayonne High School in 1996. Castle was hired by the Kearny Police Department in 2001 and, after completing basic training at the Bergen County Police Academy, he was assigned to the 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. patrol shift until 2005, when he switched to the 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. shift where he remained until 2018 when he received his current assignment with the street crimes unit. He married Valerie in 2002 and the couple welcomed a son Justin in 2004 and a daughter Jenna in 2007. The family moved to Old Bridge in 2008. An active member of the Patrolman’s Benevolent Association, Castle chaired the annual PBA picnic for several years and, most recently, designed and oversaw construction of the new PBA gym at police headquarters. Castle was named KPD Policeman of the Year in 2004 and was also honored by the American Legion as Hudson County Policeman of the Year and received the N.J. State American Legion Medal of Honor. He is also the recipient of the Combat Cross and Exceptional Duty Awards as well as multiple Lifesaving, Apprehension, Drugbuster and Investigative Service Awards, along with several Unit Citations and Certificates of Merit.

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Sports & Recreation

Vikings expect solid season with packed roster By Jason Bernstein

jason@theobserver.com

orth Arlington baseball coach Paul Marcantuono saw a competitive streak in his players from the first practice in March. And while the Vikings dropped a 7-6 heart-breaker to Wallington in the season opener, that fight first seen during tryouts was on full display. Twice, North Arlington rallied to tie the game, including the top of the seventh inning when it erupted for four runs to tie the game at 6. “I think our kids have a lot of heart and hustle and fight,” said Marcantuono, now in his 15th season as head coach. “We were down twice in that game and we came back. I love that fight in them. I do think that we’re going to be very competitive in the league and in all the games that we play this year and hopefully make some noise in the playoffs.” Marcantuono believes that competitive nature comes from having 34 kids in the program, ensuring no one’s job is handed without being earned. It also has created a level of depth the Vikings have rarely enjoyed as

The 2022 North Arlington boys’ baseball team following a recent practice. Photo by Jason Bernstein.

one of the smaller schools in the NJIC. Marcantuono has eight pitchers he has confidence in sending to the mound at any time, allowing him to keep arms fresh throughout the spring. “It’s awesome because they’ve pitched really, really well against some tough teams in the preseason, which really opened my eyes a little bit this year,” Marcantuono said. “We’re trying to keep pitch counts at a reasonable number and bring younger pitchers along.” Headlining the collection of hurlers is junior Devin Rivas.

Rivas, who threw for 1,917 yards and 16 touchdowns this football season at quarterback, is a power arm, capable of racking up strikeouts in bunches. “Devin is a hard thrower, he’s a strikeout pitcher,” Marcantuono said. “He’s a power pitcher we’re going to use for 75-80 pitches a game when he’s out there.” Behind Rivas are two veteran seniors in Eddie Ortiz (29 strikeouts in 25⅔ innings last year) and Oscar Torres (34 strikeouts in 30⅔ innings). Seniors Pedro Hernandez and Angel Elliott, as well as junior Kyle Villani and sophomores Robert

Carselda and Kevin Zidiak are also going to be counted on to provide meaningful innings. They’ll be throwing to senior Christian Gerace, who shifts back to catcher after playing third base last season. Gerace was an All-NJIC Meadowlands selection last year after hitting .329 with 22 runs, 19 RBI, 10 stolen bases, 12 extra-base hits and a .457 on-base percentage. “He’s becoming a vocal leader on this team and a leader by example,” Marcantuono said. “He’s very vocal on the field and in the dugout. He’s like my coach out there, saying the right things and doing the right things.” Gerace is one of the few players who has one set position. Where most of the others will play varies by who is on the mound on a given day or who needs to rest after pitching earlier. “You have to have a bunch of people that are utility players, ‘You never know where you’re going to play,’” said Marcantuono. “I tell the kids if you have an extra glove, bring it because you never know where you’re going to play.” See NA, Page 12

Kearny baseball team may just surprise the skeptics in 2022 By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

eading into the season, Kearny baseball coach Dave Smart saw a team that while young, had the offensive talent to sneak up and surprise people this season. It only took one game for the secret to be out as the Kardinals exploded for 15 hits in a head-turning 17-6 victory over Memorial of West New York. Nine different players scored at least one run in the five-inning win. “I think as we started moving on and we started

practicing and having a couple of scrimmages, they started to really feel that confidence,” Smart said. “(Friday) was a real eyeopener for them and shows that we can do this and put things together. “I really think as their confidence builds, they’re going to surprise some people. They’re going to put the ball in play, they’re going to hit the ball hard, and it could be fun to watch.” Designated hitter and cleanup batter Rexhep Berisha led the attack with four runs and four RBI. Hitting in front of Berisha was Sharif Wilkenson (3for-4, three runs, three RBI),

Photo by Jason Bernstein

Members of the Kearny baseball team pose for a photo before practice on April 2, 2022

who played shortstop in the opener, but is likely to start all over the diamond at one point or another this year. “He really is one of our most valuable players,” Smart said of Wilkenson, who will be a mainstay in the middle

of the lineup regardless of position. “Sharif is an athlete for us. He can play anywhere in the infield for us and he can catch for us too.” Sophomore William McChesney, who homered, is the primary first baseman.

Juniors Lucas Perez and Jayden Casanova are at second base with senior John Hernandez at third. The main shortstop will be Ryan Gill, who at 6-foot-5 See KARDS Page 11

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Wednesday, April 6, 2022

The first-ever Nutley High School volleyball team is seen here after a recent practice. Story & photo by Jason Bernstein.

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Immaculate, 25-14, 25-22, in the program’s first ever match. “Our home crowd at the opener was absolutely electric,” Nutley head coach Kevin Reilly said. “The place was packed and it was families, it was fans, it was students and the kids had a blast playing in front of them. “You couldn’t script a better way to start the program.” This push for boys volleyball became more serious this school year and after being formally approved, Reilly was hired to be the head coach. “There was a strong push from some very dedicated students who are now our student-athletes, along with some great support from our athletic department. “When the students showed they were serious about starting this program, (Athletic Director) Joe Piro and the school got behind it.” Reilly, who has been assistant coach for the girls team the past two seasons, didn’t know what to expect as he began his first preseason with the boys. The most pleasant surprise was when he had 45 kids show up for initial tryouts. And while the majority are playing organized volleyball for the first time, quite a few of them had experience from playing club. Among those veterans are Nutley’s two outside hitters, freshman Gavin Warburton

and sophomore Ilhan Ilhan, both a part of the Central Jersey Volleyball Academy. For Ilhan, one of the team’s two captains, that experience put him in a leadership role that few sophomores have to undertake. “He is so vocal from an Xs and Os standpoint. He’s the equivalent of having a point guard on the basketball court. He’s an extension of the coaching staff out there,” said Reilly. “He makes sure everyone stays in rotation and is just a calming voice for them all.” The other captain is a firstyear player in middle blocker Brandon Gonsiewski, the team’s lone senior starter. “Brandon has just taken on an incredible role from a leadership standpoint of getting the guys ready for practice, organizing everything we need and being a voice that the kids really listen to and look up to,” Reilly said. Junior Carl Villarin is the setter and junior opposite Joe Duca are first-year players. Duca is a high flyer that plays bigger than his height. Sophomore Shane Castellanos is the defensive specialist and, according to Reilly, has a “monster serve.” Reilly has also been happy with the depth Nutley has as seniors Rehman Arshad, Eduardo Lazo, Julian Poole and Brandon Hoo, are all Continued on the next page

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

KARDS

Continued from Page 9 doesn’t look the part, but has the athleticism to handle the position. “Ryan is very athletic and I have the confidence to put Ryan anywhere on the field,” said Smart. “If I needed him at first, he can go to first. If I needed him in the outfield, I know he can play there. The only place I wouldn’t feel comfortable with Ryan is catching and that’s just because his height makes him a big target. Ryan is just an athlete, a great player and a great person who will run through a wall for us.” Casanova and sophomore Jaiden Malave share left field. Junior Bryan Diaz leads off and plays center field and Joe Rocco is in right field.

‘Ryan is very athletic and I have the confidence to put Ryan anywhere on the field. If I needed him at first, he can go to first. If I needed him in the outfield, I know he can play there. ...Ryan is just an athlete, a great player and a great person who will run through a wall for us.’ — Head coach Dave Smart on Ryan Gill. Timothy Schewzer is the fourth outfielder. At catcher is talented sophomore Victor Hanson, who played in the outfield last season, but moves back to his more natural position this year.

“As a team, we’re worlds ahead of where we were three weeks ago when we started tryouts. I’m excited to see what a full season does for us.” Because of the timing of when the team started, Nutley is playing an independent schedule primarily composed of teams from Essex and Hudson

Continued from previous page playing key roles early on. “It was a complete unknown in terms of what to expect from the student talent pool,” Reilly said. “We’re fortunate enough to have a few kids who played on club teams. The vast majority of our players only played in gym class or with their family and friends.

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Gill, who posted a 2.51 ERA in 30⅔ innings last year, is the top returning pitcher for Kearny. McChesney, the lone lefty in the rotation, takes the No. 2 slot, followed by righties Schewzer, Joseph Drefko and

counties. The Raiders do intend to enter this year’s Essex County Tournament this spring and join the Super Essex Conference for next season. While it remains to be

Hernandez. Casanova, Malave and Rocco are capable arms out of the bullpen. “There’s going to be a lot of ups and downs being a young team,” Smart said. “I just hope we can stay on track.” Kearny will look to continue its early momentum this coming week with HCIAL American Division contests at Hudson Catholic on Tuesday and Union City on Thursday. In addition to its challenging division schedule, Kearny plays perennial state title contender St. Mary’s of Rutherford on Saturday. On April 30, the Kardinals square off with Nutley as part of a four-game Hudson vs. Essex challenge set to be played at historic Miller Stadium in West New York.

seen how they handle this inaugural season, Reilly is confident that the program will continue to grow in the years to come. “(For years) people were like ‘wouldn’t it be great if

we had this,’” Reilly said. “This time, I don’t know if it was the right group of people that pushed it forward, but I’m happy it took place because I think everyone is really excited about this year.”

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RUBBISH

Continued from Page 1 time. These dumpsters are overflowing as of this writing and no pickup yet.” Anthony Iacono, the township manager, conceded some condo associations “haven’t gotten their containers back and the temporary hauler is doing its best to replace them but it’s a time-consuming process. A garbage truck can fit only one container at a time and additional time is consumed transporting the trash and recyclables to the DPW garage for disposal, he said. Iacono estimated that, as of last week, about 180 of the approximately 250 containers spread around the township had been replaced. As for allegations of delayed pickups for other property owners, Iacono said the township has experienced “no interruptions of service,” but acknowledged the temporary vendor has been undergoing a learning process, getting to know the routes and adjusting to the pickup schedule. Still, Iacono said, the township has experienced problems even with an experienced vendor like Suburban. During the past two years, he said, the township

has registered “more than 600” servicerelated complaints from residents for things like “not finishing a route on time” and “throwing garbage cans down the street.” Late last year, the township advertised for bids for renewal of solid-waste collectionservices, resulting in the receipt of a single bid from Suburban on Dec. 7. One week later, the township rejected the bid on the grounds “the single bid received did not represent a sufficiently competitive process.” On Jan. 11, the township received a second round of bids, from Suburban and Galaxy, for a proposed 3-year contract and, subsequently, Galaxy was awarded the contract. Asked for details, Iacono shared a worksheet that listed Suburban’s “annualized 3-year total” at $7,072,400 and Galaxy’s comparable 3-year total at $6,612,000. But Suburban contested the township’s interpretation of the figures and a court invalidated the contract award, ruling the township was obliged to conduct a third round of bidding, which has been scheduled for April 9, according to Iacono. In the meantime, Iacono said the township can continue providing temporary collection services with Galaxy.

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Photo by Jason Bernstein

North Arlington seniors Christian Gerace, Pedro Hernandez, Oscar Torres, Angel Elliott and Matt O’Mara.

Continued from Page 9 First base and designated hitter in particular will be based largely on who is pitching, but Arias, Iker Bouzas and Nate Smith are the primary options at first base. Elliott is the main second baseman with Alijah Rodriguez also seeing time. Torres will start at third base, but Hernandez and Robert Kairys will also see action at the hot corner. One position, however, that is set in stone is shortstop with Carselda. A part-time outfielder as a freshman, Carselda is poised for a breakthrough season,

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especially defensively. “Robert’s just a super athlete with a really strong arm,” Marcantuono said. “He can get to a lot of baseballs and he’s just super athletic. He’s going to be the shortstop for the next three years.” Villani is the starter in centerfield and Ortiz will see a lot of time at one of the corner spots. Also vying for at-bats in the outfield will be Zidiak, Gerald Lawless, Sean McGeehan, Bernie Pimentel and Matt O’Mara. North Arlington looks to bounce back on Tuesday at Hasbrouck Heights, then travels to Becton two days later. The Vikings’ first home game of the season is Saturday when it hosts Fort Lee.

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Obituaries Michael Charles Washeleski Michael Charles Washeleski, 76, of Johnson City, Tennessee, and formerly of Waldorf, Maryland, died Wednesday, March 23, 2022, at the Johnson City Medical Center. He was born in Kearny, the son of the late Charles A. Washeleski and Anna R. Bein Washeleski. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Frances T. Sansone, of Kearny, and Patricia M. Washeleski Cozza, of Parsippany. Michael graduated from Newark College of Engineering with a bachelor’s degree and from Illinois Institute of Technology with a master’s degree. He honorably served in the United States Air Force (1968-1996) for 28 years retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. He was also a graduate of Squadron Officers School, Air Force Command and Staff College and Armed Forces Staff College and National Defense University.

Obituaries from previous weeks may be found online at www. theobserver. com.

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He served as a health and safety officer during the Pentagon Recovery Operation following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. He also served and retired as a program manager with the U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Reduction Detection Program and as a radiological and nuclear subject matter expert. He had a deep love of history, especially the U.S. Civil War and Abraham Lincoln, and was an “O gauge” toy train collector and operator. He is survived by his loving wife of 16 years (together for 23 years), Carol Land Washeleski, Air Force Retired, of Johnson City, Tennessee.; one son, Gregory B. Washeleski, of Mathews, Virginia; one daughter, Jennifer Dawn Washeleski, and husband Swen Janke; one granddaughter, Sophie Paulina Janke of Arlington, Virginia; sister-in-law Patricia Land Crawford, and husband Stanley of Johnson City, Tennessee; several nieces, nephews, cousins and loved ones. A committal service and interment will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery in Arling-

ton, Virginia. Condolences and memories may be shared with the Washeleski family by visiting www.montevistafunerals. com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in his name, to any Humane Society. Arrangements especially for Michael Charles Washeleski and his family have been made through Monte Vista Funeral Home Johnson City, Tennessee.

Novena to St. Jude

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May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. Please grant my request. Say this prayer 9 times a day. By the 9th day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you Saint Jude. B

James Magee James Magee of Kearny died March 28, 2022. He was 62. Jim was the beloved brother and brother-in-law of Hugh “Butch” Magee, Sharon and Bill Holmes, Karen and Scott Campbell, Rosemary and Michael Romano and the late John and Debbie Magee. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Private arrangements are by the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Kearny Food Pantry. Edna L. Sroczynski Edna L. Sroczynski died at home March 28, 2022.

Dear Sacred Heart Of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours, this time I ask you this special one favour. Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it in your own broken heart where our Father sees it, then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine. AMEN. Say this prayer for 3 days and promise publication and favor will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. B.S.

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She was 87. Born in Jersey City, she lived most of her life in Kearny. Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Her funeral was graveside in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, with her late husband. Edna was a retired secretary from the Aetna Insurance Company. She was the wife of the late Francis Sroczynski and loving mother of Stephen and Frank Sroczynski (Frank’s wife Denise) and sister of Dorothy D’Angelo and the late John, Robert and Charles Shekon and Penny Crockett and Marie Siberini. She was also the loving grandmother of Courtney, Aislinn, Danielle and the late Austin. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Epilepsy Service of New Jersey, 50 Millstone Raod, Building 300, Suite 201

All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission. East Windsor, N.J. 08520 in Edna’s memory. Joanne J. Roda Joanne J. Roda was a lifelong resident of New Jersey and a long-time resident of North Arlington, formerly of Jersey City. Joanne J. Roda (1938-2021) was born to the late John and Olga “Alba” (nee Mastandrea) Roda. She is survived by her brother William, friend Rita Shannon and is also missed by a whole host of dear friends and former students whom she considered family. Joanne was well-known for being highly faith-filled, humble, generous and kind. A memorial mass was celebrated Saturday, April 2, 2022, at St. Joseph Church, East Rutherford. It was livestreamed and may be seen at stjosepher.com; to watch, scroll to boxcast. The Kimak Funeral Home, Carlstadt, was in charge.

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Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Observer Classifieds

The Observer 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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Full Time Experienced Body Man for a State of the Art Body Shop in the Ironbound Section of Newark. Call 973-344-5403 or apply at 333 South St. 48W03

46W03

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RECREATION PLAYLEADERS Playground Play leaders needed for summer recreation program. 6/27 -8/19 Play leaders will supervise playground activities during our summer recreation program. 25-30 per week. Application deadline 5/2 For application Go to https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/

FT/PT Server with experience. Bus Boy PT call Rob (201)988-1134

48W03

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Laborers Temporary workers needed in the Department of Public Works to do maintenance/cleanup of parks and streets, line painting, truck washing, garage and shade tree maintenance andother related duties. Valid NJ drivers license required, CDL preferred. 35 hours per week, $15 - $18 per hour based on experience the following residential preferences shall apply: 1. Residents of the Town of Kearny and the City of Newark; 2. Residents of Hudson and Essex Counties; 3. Residents of the State of New Jersey. Proof of residency is required; applicants shall provide copies of the first page (only) of the last three (3) 1040 tax returns with the financial data redacted and a Government issued photo identification card (i.e. current NJ Driver’s License, Passport etc.). Applications are available at: https://www.kearnynj. org/job-opportunities/ Application Deadline is 4/22/22. The Town of Kearny is an equal opportunity employer. 47W03

BELLEVILLE CDL Driver Wanted Adult Medical Day Care Part Time/Full Time Driver for adult medical daycare in Essex county needed. A CDL with Class B and Endorsement P a MUST!!! Spanish speaking a plus. No nights or weekends. Competitive Salary. Call Monday thru Friday only between 10 AM and 5 PM. Call (862)-264-0906 518 Washington Ave Belleville 47W03

Instructor needed Will train right candidate. Must be reliable. Part time driver wanted Please email NJDRIVINGSCHOOL@Hotmail. com 46W03

Part time teller position needed. Bilingual a must. Days would be Tues, Thursday and Friday starting at 8am. $13.50/hr Please call 201-487-3538 to inquire 46W03

LIFEGUARD Lifeguards/Lifeguard supervisor needed for summer open swim program. Valid lifeguard training & CPR cert req. 33 hours per week. $15 per hour. Application deadline 5/2 For Applications go to https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 48W03

THE OBSERVER is not responsible for typographical errors. Credit for errorswill not be granted after the next week’s publication. $10 for minimal changes. o refunds once ad is taken and C.C charged. ALLCLASSIFIED 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

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTE - Not a legal advertisment

Dish Wireless LLC is proposing to install new wireless telecommunications antennas on a building located at 511 Kearny Ave., Kearny, Hudson County, NJ. The new facility will consist of antennas mounted at a top height of +/-47 feet 6 inches AGL on the 42-ft building (51’-6” overall with appurtenances). Any interested party wishing to submit comments regarding the potential effects the proposed facility may have on any historic property may do so by sending such comments to: Project 6122002575 - JLD EBI Consulting, 6876 Susquehanna Trail South, York, PA 17403, or (203) 231-6643 48W01

Fife appoints Confessore to open Board of Ed seat A former longtime educator/ administrator has been named to the Harrison Board of Education to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Carol Mandaglio. Mayor James A. Fife appointed Fred Confessore, a onetime district superintendent of schools whose career with the Harrison school system spanned more than four decades, to the school board, effective March 17. “We’ve had a number of former (Harrison) educators serve on the board,” Fife said. “They have a good feel for what’s going on in the district.” He mentioned, as examples, Anthony Comprelli, another ex-superintendent; Vincent Franco, who was curriculum director; and the late James Geiger, elementary school vice principal. Fife, a former board member himself, was principal of Harrison High School. James Doran, the district’s director of personnel, recalled having worked with Confessore when the latter was a district administrator and said: “I’m happy to have him back.” Confessore, who just turned 70, said he accepted the mayor’s offer to return to scholastic service because, “I’ve lived in Harrison all my life and I’ve always liked to be involved with our schools. Even through I’ve been retired several years, I still miss the kids and the employees.” Confessore, who has a daughter attending elementary school in the

district, spent more than 43 years as a school employee, including nine years as a teacher, six years as Lincoln School principal and two years as Washington Middle School principal before being elevated to assistant superintendent and the balance of his time as, initially, acting, then permanent superintendent. After leaving the district’s employ, Confessore was a volunteer basketball coach at the high school for a few years while operating a new restaurant venture in town. Asked what areas he’d like to focus on, from the perspective of a school board member, Confessore said, “I’ve always had a particular interest in (school) facilities, in keeping them updated, and technology. Energymanagement issues also interest me and I believe the board will be looking to installing LED lighting as part of energy upgrades at our schools.” Additionally, Confessore said, he’d like to press for “upgrading some of our older school buildings but these days, it’s so expensive, so we’ll see.” He attended his first board meeting on March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, the same day he was sworn in, and so maybe the luck of the Irish will follow Confessore as he proceeds on his new path. Harrison remains one of the few districts in Jersey with an appointed school board. — RON LEIR

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

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Observer Classifieds

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N.ARLINGTON 1st Fl. 1 BR, LR, DR, EIK With yard. Quiet neighborhood. Near Transportation. $1300 + Plus utilities. 1 1/5 months security. HARRISON Studio with No Dogs. One year lease. Credit check. bathroom. $900+ 1.5 Available June 1st (973)838-1662 mth security. Utilities 48W06 separate. Available Now. No Pets/Smoking Call (973)970-8688 46W03

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N.ARLINGTON N.ARLINGTON First floor. 1 BR, Large DR, EIK. $1400 + 1 month security. Utilities separate. No Pets/Smoking. Available April 15TH (201)9914739 46W03 N.ARLINGTON Studio apartment with Kitchen $1,250 + 1 months securtiy. Heat/HW supplied. Single or couple preferred. 1st floor in garden apartment complex. Laundry on site. Parking available. Close to trans and shopping. No Pets. Call between 10am-7pm only. Couple or single preferred (201)997-2341 47W03

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FURNITURE FOR SALE Living room set $150, drawer chest with more and night table $50, refrigerator $75 by on Tappan St. Kearny Call 201 926 6850 47W03

GARAGE FOR RENT 1 car garage available Corner of Sunset and Prospect. North Arlington $150 per month. Call (201)408-6800 46W03

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Wednesday, April 6, 2022

COPS

Continued from Page 1 Hedenberg said the department was deliberative in its interview process with the candidates to make sure they were “the right fit.” He said women officers were added to the mix to help “diversify” the force, with the goal being “to make our community better,” not just for the sake of hiring more women. Pronti echoed that belief, reminding the women recruits that, “You were hired because you’re capable, ready to do the job.” Before these hirings, the chief said, “we had one female and she retired in 2000.” Going to other police jurisdictions to fill gaps in the borough’s police roster has become “a common practice for us,” Hedenberg said, because, “we’re getting officers with existing law enforcement experience who generally bring a diverse skill set with experience in patrol and investigations units.” Plus, the chief said, it saves the borough the time and cost of state Civil Service testing and Police Academy classes. Going the Civil Service route, “it ends up 12 months before we’re ready to put recruits on the street.” But, with transfers from another department, once the new hires clear medical and psychological testing, it takes only three months of field training to break in the newbies, he noted. The latest opportunity to beef up the department’s numbers came, Hedenberg said, because, “unexpectedly, we had some retirements. With COVID, and with economic conditions not being strong, it hasn’t been easy to focus.” But now, he said, the department – with the borough government’s backing – is ready to move forward. Later, Hedenberg explained that the department is permitted to hire a maximum of 36 employees, a combination of patrol officers and supervisors. With the

POLICE BEAT three new hires, he’s at 30 and he expects to have two additional employees on board soon. He said he’s still short three sergeants and one lieutenant but he hopes that the mayor and council will come through with the money to fill those ranks within the coming month or two. Since the department’s three newest members are all Police Academy graduates, the borough is spared the expense of putting them through that training, normally required of new officers. And all three have been exposed to different assignments with their former employer in Paterson. Hensz, who served just under six years with Paterson PD, worked in patrol and non-fatal shooting investigations. He lives in South Hackensack. Marino, whose brother Erick is a sergeant with Paterson PD, worked four years with that department, where she was assigned to patrol, Special Victims Unit and major crimes. She said she’s “always had an interest” in law enforcement as a career. She’s a West Milford resident. Toribio, a three-year PPD officer from Oak Ridge, served in patrol and juvenile division. She has cousins who are police officers in Paterson and Fairlawn. She said she’d been enrolled in dental school but had a change of heart, took a Civil Service test for police officer and landed a job with the PPD. Hedenberg said the trio made the switch to the borough because of the “strong tie they feel to small communities, based on where they grew up. “They see North Arlington as affording “a better opportunity to connect with the residents and business people, to make a difference in the community and, as younger people, a more rewarding experience.”

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

CHASE

Continued from Page 1 was wanted for a specific degree of aggravated assault — one of the Attorney General’s enumerated offenses — this would mean he also knew the defendant’s identity, in which case, the Attorney General does not authorize a pursuit. If you think this is an unwieldy amount of information to process while driving, radioing in to one’s superiors, and trying not to be injured by what later turned out to be an armed criminal, you’re not alone. Officer Donovan shut off his emergency lights and the alleged scofflaw sped off. Legal impotence would have enabled his escape except that the alleged thief parked and bailed out at Davis Avenue and Devon Terrace. Officer Donovan quickly found the abandoned SUV. Detectives at police headquarters immediately reviewed a town surveillance camera mounted on an area firehouse and broadcast a

The Observer | www.theobserver.com description of the defendant, who had run up Devon Terrace. Armed with a good description, officers canvassed the area. A half hour after the theft, Lt. Charlie Smith and Sgt. Neil Nelson saw the driver walking on Wilson Avenue off of Kearny Avenue. When the officers approached, the defendant ran. Det. Michal Gontarczuk blocked the man’s path, identifying him now as James H. Lopez, 21, of Kearny, who was wanted as the suspect in an attempted knife slashing incident of a high school student on Kearny Avenue a couple of weeks ago. For that case, warrants issued charging Lopez with second degree aggravated assault and weapon possession charges, but he had not yet been apprehended. Sgt. Nelson tripped Lopez and the three officers arrested him. In a bag strapped crosswise around his chest, officers recovered a Taurus G2C 9mm handgun. An eighteen-round capacity ammunition magazine was seated in the gun. The

magazine was loaded with nine hollow-point cartridges and eight cartridges of ball ammunition. Lopez was processed on his outstanding warrant. For the new incident, Lopez was charged with unlawful firearm possession, possession of a high-capacity magazine, possession of hollow-nose rounds, and two counts of obstructing the administration of law. Additional charges may be pending. Lopez was held in the Hudson County jail. On Feb. 8 at 9:44 p.m., a local man stopped at the Domino’s Pizza on Kearny Avenue to talk to the manager about an October refund he felt he was due. A different manager was now at the store who disavowed knowledge of this refund and refused to grant it. The customer then took a cell phone photo inside the store, ostensibly to document when, for the absent manager, he had come to collect. When the customer exited the pizzeria, it was alleged the manager followed him, wrapped both his arms around

the customer, and demanded his cell phone. The customer fell to the ground and the manager allegedly wrested control of the phone before throwing it onto a nearby roof. In the struggle, the customer also lost one of his Apple Air Pod Pro headphones, valued in a pair at $189. The fire department assisted in retrieving the customer’s iPhone from the roof. The $720 phone was now damaged and would not power on. The pizza manager, identified as Mateus David, 20, of Newark, reportedly took an Uber home right after the altercation. He was gone before police arrived. However, Det. Mike Farinola later identified David and drew up a warrant charging him with robbery and criminal mischief. On March 30, Farinola, with Det. Jordenson Jean and Sgt. Neil Nelson arrested David at the Domino’s store without incident. David was later transferred to the county jail. On March 29 at 8:18 p.m., Officers Jordan Miranda

and Anthony Oliveira were dispatched to Kearny Wine & Liquor on a report a man had just shoplifted beer. The alleged pilsner pilferer did not make it too far, the cops finding him by the 700 block of Kearny Avenue with beer cans in his sweatshirt pockets. The suspect was later identified as Marcio O. Silva, 41, of Albrightsville, Pennsylvania. Silva refused to stop walking when the officers tried to detain him, allegedly handing over one Bud Light beer can and dropping another. When the handcuffs came out, Silva allegedly resisted. Officers had to wrestle Silva to the ground while he reportedly challenged them to shoot him. Assisted by Officer David Vazquez, the officers eventually handcuffed Silva and recovered two more cans of beer from him. After all this, liquor store management declined to prosecute for shoplifting. Officers charged Silva with obstructing the administration of law and resisting arrest. They later released him to a local hospital for an evaluation.

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Wednesday, April 6, 2022

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