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Wednesday, 1 June 2022

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Vol. CXXXV, No. 4

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

PRICELESS PAINTING New York state man finds artwork composed years ago by The Observer’s late matriarch Mary A. Tortoreti By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

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

d Doyle, 70, of Saugerties, New York, (no relation to any of the local Doyles), in Ulster County, (about 100 miles from here) says he thinks it was about five or so years ago when he found the painting. What he can’t remember is where he bought it or what he paid for it. He guesstimates it was at a garage sale or flea market, maybe an estate sale, because

though he is not an art snob, he does appreciate a really well done painting. So he took this painting, of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, home and it sat somewhere in his home for years. He says he tried a few times to hang it somewhere. “But I had no luck,” Doyle says. “I have a nice-sized house, but what I do not have is a lot of wall space. So there were times I thought to myself, ‘hmm, that would look good there,’ and See MARY, Page 19

Encarnacao tapped to lead Kearny School District 21-year educator succeeds Patricia Blood, who retires at end of current academic year By Ron Leir

For The Observer

veteran Kearny public schools educator has been chosen to lead the district. The Kearny Board of Education voted Monday night to appoint Flora Encarnacao superintendent of schools, effective July 1, pending

negotiation of her salary and employment terms and approval of the interim executive county superintendent of schools. The board will be looking at a 3-year term of employment for the new appointee, according to Kenneth Lindenfelser, the board attorney. Encarnacao will replace Patricia Blood, who is retiring June 30 after

many years with the district. Since December 2021, Encarnacao has served as assistant superintendent in charge of curriculum and instruction at an annual pay of about $181,000. More than 20 applicants sought the chief school administrator’s job, acSee FLORA, Page 15

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NEW STYPLE BOOK ON A

Castle), and, later, the Home for Civil War Soldiers, which stood across the street on the site of the present-day Veterans’ Field, until its closure in 1932. The reputation that Kearny built, both as a veteran of five wars and as a civilian attorney and fine arts connoisseur, “inspired me to study the general’s history all my life,” Styple said. “I collected files and letters about him, articles in magazines, biographies, personal effects, anything I could find.” He also drew material from letters written by the general to his wife, relatives and friends and from military order books contained in the national archives in Washington, D.C. Reflecting the volume of labor the author dedicated to the project, the book runs 880 pages at nearly one million words, with 1,000 footnotes, and weighs in at six-and-a-half pounds, Styple said. Among the few prior Kearny biographies, two written by relatives who don’t touch on the subject’s

By Ron Leir

For The Observer

fter a half-century of research and reflection, Kearny native William Styple has achieved a literary milestone and a lifelong goal. An acclaimed Civil War scholar who has authored, co-written or edited some 25 tomes on the subject, Styple has completed an exhaustive study of his longtime hero, from whom the town takes its name, with his latest work, “General Philip Kearny, A Very God of War; The Life and Letters of Gen. Philip Kearny,” due for public distribution next month. “I remember sitting in my secondgrade classroom at Roosevelt School with the portraits of Washington, Lincoln and Kearny on the wall behind me and that was in 1967, the same year as the centennial of General Kearny,” Styple recalled. Even then, he said, most people over 40 who lived in town could remember the general’s house, Belgrove (also known as King’s

Contributed photo

Continued on the next page

Styple holds up a copy of his new hardcover on Maj. Gen. Philip Kearny.

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KEARNY OUT SHORTLY Continued from previous page

personal life, and another, written in the 1960s, was aimed at a children’s audience, according to Styple. When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Kearny was “the most combat-experienced soldier” around, Styple noted, but the battle-scarred veteran and Northern advocate had to wait for a chance to prove his merits as a field commander in the service of his country. Trained as a New York lawyer, the 21-yearold Kearny forsook the courtroom in favor of enlisting as a 2nd lieutenant in the 1st U.S. Dragoons in 1837, serving on the frontier. Two years later, he was sent

to France to study cavalry tactics which he learned first-hand by accompanying the Chasseurs d’Afrique in the Algeria campaign of 1840. While in France, Styple noted, Kearny “kept a diary in which he described the architecture, the people, the markets. It was almost like a National Geographic special.” Returning home, Kearny was tasked with organizing a cavalry troop, which he did, using part of the personal fortune he’d inherited to do so, then was promoted to captain in late 1846 and named to the staff of Gen. Winfield Scott. He married and started a family but, after several years, returned to his regiment and explored the West.

It was during the Mexican War that Kearny was wounded in his left arm which had to be amputated. Undeterred, he initially served as a recruiter before being promoted to major and, returning to the frontier, skirmished with Indians in Oregon But he soon returned to active duty, and, ultimately, to the frontier where his unit skirmished with the Sioux in Oregon. By 1859, Kearny, now living in Paris with his second wife, New Yorker Agnes Maxwell, rejoined his old French outfit, the Chasseurs d’Afrique, in their fight against Austrian forces in

Italy, culminating in the ferocious Battle of Solferino, in which the number of casualties approached 50,000 in a single day. The carnage led to the formation of the International Red Cross. For his actions on the battlefield, France awarded Kearny the Legion of Honor, making him the first American to be so recognized for military service. When the Civil War erupted, Kearny itched to see action again on behalf of the North but, as Styple discovered, “his divorce (in 1858) had tainted him as a soldier. He couldn’t get a command.” Two key factors ultimately

led to a reversal of fortune for the frustrated soldier, Styple discovered. One was the perilous state of the North. Just one week after the first Battle of Bull Run, the Northern forces had been routed and the rebel army was just 20 miles outside Washington, with only a mob of uncontrolled U.S. Army soldiers in the streets standing between the rebels and the capital. The other, Styple said, was the personal intervention by a close friend, Newark attorney Cortlandt Parker and Washington insider, who had access to President See STYPLE, Page 8

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IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION Summer 202 Reg ad- KO ad.indd 1

Opinion.................................................................................................Page 6 Sports..................................................................................................Page 9 Health & Wellness Directory...............................................................Page 11

5/25/22 9:50 AM

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

4 Nearly 500 HCCC grads are novice English speakers The Observer | www.theobserver.com

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

few years ago, many of them barely knew a word of English. Now, they’re achieving two-year degrees and beyond. On Tuesday, May 24, 2022, Hudson County Community College honored graduates from the Classes of 2020-22 who began their academic journeys in the HCCC ESL Program. HCCC is one of the most ethnically diverse higher education institutions in the United States, with students born in 119 countries who speak 29 languages. Many are recent arrivals to the United States coping with unfamiliar surroundings, cultural differences and a new language. The college says its commitment to student success often begins by helping them overcome language challenges through the Academic English as a Second Language program. The “ESL to Graduation: A Celebration” featured welcoming

remarks by Jed Palmer, interim director of ESL and Academic Foundations English (AFE); and “Tales of Immigration: Past and Present” presented by Linda Joy Miller, associate professor, ESL. HCCC 2005 graduate Bahmini Ketheesan, manager, SERV Finances and Accounts Group, Stevens Institute of Technology, spoke about “Student Success Stories: Past.” Simone Ebeid, a member of the Class of 2021 who earned her associate degree in medical sciences, and Elie Natuwila, Class of 2022 received his associate in criminal justice, spoke on “Student Success Stories: Present.” HCCC President Christopher Reber and Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Yeurys Pujols offered congratulatory remarks to the graduates who are receiving degrees in business, computer science, criminal justice, culinary arts, digital arts, early childhood education, engineering, English, health services, hospitality management, human services, mathematics, medical assisting,

medical coding, nursing, psychology, radiography, studio arts and several other disciplines. “The Classes of 2020-22 include 497 students who came to the United States from all around the world and began their higher education journey in the HCCC ESL program,” Reber said. “Attendees hail from Algeria, Brazil, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Ghana, Haiti, Honduras, India, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru and Senegal. We are enormously proud of them for the courage, determination and persistence they demonstrated in navigating the challenges of learning to read, write and speak a new language, and then continuing on to earn their associate degrees.” The HCCC Academic ESL program provides students with the high-level English language skills needed to study at a United States college or university and to succeed and advance in careers. Classes focus on academic essay writing, grammar, reading and

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

speaking and listening skills. Overall, HCCC ESL students are from 45 different countries. Students enrolled in the Academic ESL program are eligible to apply for the Johanna Van Gandt (JVG) Scholarship for ESL Students that provides tuition support.

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

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Celebrate

Flag Day June 14, 2022

Commemorating the adoption of the ﬂag of the United States which took place on June 14, 1777. Whether it was hoisted into the air by six Marines at Iwo Jima, planted on the moon’s surface by two astronauts or unfurled by three firemen at Ground Zero, the American flag has been a beacon of hope and a symbol of what we can accomplish when we come together as a nation.

LONG MAY SHE WAVE. Mayor Michael Melham Township of Belleville

The red and white and starry blue is Freedom’s shield and hope. - John Philip Sousa

HAPPY

FLAG DAY from Mayor Alberto Santos and the Town of Kearny

Our township commemorates & honors our National Flag

H A PP Y FLAG DAY C E L E B R AT E A N D H O N O R

“When we honor our ﬂag, we honor what we stand for as a Nation – freedom, equality, justice, and hope.”

Borough of North Arlington

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Wednesday, June 1, 2022

Opinion & Viewpoints EDITORIAL Encarnacao was a natural candidate for superintendent

ometimes, there are positions of leadership where a natural order of succession exists. In 1988, George Herbert Walker Bush naturally succeeded Ronald W. Reagan as President of the United States. In 2000, Al Gore ... well, you get the picture. And locally, we have, at hand, a natural succession — Flora Encarnacao is replacing the retiring Patricia “Patte” Blood as Kearny’s Superintendent of Schools as come July 1. Though the Kearny Board of Education did a terrible job by giving no notice — and not including this on its pre-meeting agenda last week — their decision is one to be lauded and celebrated, because the future of the school district is in the hands of a loyal, long-time, dedicated Kearny woman who belong right where she’ll be in July. She was one of 20 overall applicants. And if the law didn’t require announcing the position, she was the logical replacement for Blood the second the aforementioned announced her retirement. According to Ron Leir’s story profiling the new superintendent, Encarnacao joined the district 21 years ago as a bilingual/ESL teacher, first for grades K-5, then solely for first-grade. Eight years later, in 2009, she was named instructional coach and in 2011, she was elevated to the position of director of elementary curriculum, instruction and testing. Three years later, she began her tenure as director of elementary and secondary instruction. Then, late last year, she became Blood’s assistant superintendent. For 21 years, she has dedicated her life to the children of Kearny and she’s done it all unblemished. She’s given so much of herself to the district — and fortunately, the district and the Board of Education returned her unwavering loyalty by putting her in the super’s seat. Blood’s shoes will be hard to fill. We’ll feature her in an upcoming story and editorial — but we cannot forget her work seeing the high school project to completion and leading the district during the greatest pandemic in a century. But we are absolutely confident Encarnacao is up to the task and will continue Blood’s legacy of success. “These are certainly challenging times and it is an exciting time for education as we have learned to deal with a pandemic,” Encarnacao said last week. “But these are moments where we can change the narrative.” Now is Encarnacao’s moment — and she will change that narrative and will serve with distinction. Congratulations, Flora, on a job well-earned.

FF3: Belleville editorial was only half right To the Editor: Regarding your editorial, (“Are the days of ‘old school’ local politics finally done? Looks it,” May 17,) I think you get it only half-right. Yes, the recent mayor and council election in Belleville was mostly free of the tactics of the past — robocalls, anonymous mailers and such. That is indeed something to be celebrated. However, while the “old school” electoral tactics appear to be gone, one would be foolish to believe the longstanding political culture in Belleville has changed. Belleville has a long history of opportunistic and sometimes self-serving politicians whose actions often rode the edge of what is ethical or legal. This seems to continue to this day. I and others have brought to public and media attention — with varying degrees of success — how the old political traditions of Belleville continue to prevail. We’ve shown how Belleville mayor Michael Melham profits off the taxpayers by renting his private property to the school board, with two school board members whose campaign he managed voting for the lease; how Melham,

LETTER TO THE EDITOR as onetime library board president, had a privately owned painting on display at the library moved to his office; and most recently, how both he and Councilwoman-at-large Naomy DePena failed to recuse themselves from voting on zoning law changes that could benefit each of them personally. There remain unanswered questions about the water rate hike the mayor and council passed in 2020 and why only roughly $3.5 million of the $8 million collected has apparently been paid to Newark for water. This is to list but a few examples. Oftentimes, Belleville’s politicians appear neither ashamed of what they do, nor afraid of suffering any consequences or repercussions. State investigative agencies seem to work slowly, if they investigate at all. The only true avenue for justice accessible to regular citizens appears to be the courts, but lawsuits and hiring attorneys cost money. You seem to dismiss the recent controversy over planning board appointments

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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

in Belleville. Concerned residents had been bringing up this issue since at least 2019. In April 2022, Michael Kates — deemed one of the top land-use lawyers in the state (he assisted in writing parts of the state land-use laws) — weighed in on this matter, noting the six appointments Mayor Melham made between July 2019 and June 2021 were unlawful under Belleville’s form of government. Even the then-planning board attorney said she believed Mr. Kates’ opinion held the weight of a judicial decision. An opinion from the state’s preeminent land use law expert demands serious attention and shouldn’t be dismissed. I also believe the solution the council is now pursuing is also legally questionable. Belleville’s “old school” political culture is still with us and prevalent. It appears the voters and residents of Belleville have had enough of nasty election tactics, and I’m hopeful that they will one day soon say “enough” to all the other negative aspects of the town’s longstanding political culture. Frank F. Fleischman III Editor & Blogger Belleville Watch

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KPD: Things got medieval at copless Dunkin’ By Capt. Timothy Wagner Kearny Police Department

n May 19 at 6:36 p.m., Officer Nick Funk and several backup officers were dispatched to a fight in front of the Kearny Avenue Dunkin’ Donuts (Turns out, cops don’t already live there.). They found a 26-year-old Hollywood, Florida, man – Nevin A. Ordonez Jr. – bleeding from his hand. Officers learned Ordonez allegedly had a verbal argument with his sister’s baby’s father during which “sisterbabydaddy” allegedly retrieve a tire iron and began swinging it at him. The alleged iron-swinger, Marcus A. Lopez, 22, of Kearny, reportedly also smashed Ordonez’s car’s windshield. Officers located Lopez at Bergen and Kearny avenues and took him into custody. Lopez then reported that Ordonez had a samurai sword in his car. Officers learned that the two allegedly had a “sword fight” with the tire iron and the samurai sword in a sort of off-brand Medieval Times duel. Both men were charged with aggravated assault and weapons possession charges. Lopez was also charged with criminal mischief. The combatants were later released with summonses. On May 12 at 5:40 p.m., Officers Alan Stickno, Anthony Nunez, Mat Lopez and Sgt. Tim Castle were dispatched to a private home on a report of a dispute. They arrived to find a 21-year-old man standing on the sidewalk bleeding from a stab wound to the abdomen. The officers were told the man had been stabbed by a 21-year-old housemate during an argument and the alleged assailant was holed up inside the home. Officers tactically entered the home and took the suspect under arrest without further incident. The suspect was charged under domestic violence with aggravated assault and unlawful weapon possession, and lodged in the Hudson County Jail, South Kearny. The victim was transported by EMS to University Hospital, where

his stab wound was reported by a trauma surgeon as not life-threatening. On May 14 at 2:07 a.m., Officer Jordan Miranda and several backup officers were dispatched to 1,000 Belleville Tpk. for a burglary-in-progress. The business owner called after watching Vincent A. Arroyo, 34, of Staten Island, allegedly enter the gated yard and begin loading scrap metal into a U-Haul rental van. Officers reportedly caught Arroyo in the act with a van full of scrap metal and arrested him. The business owner reported this, or a similar U-Haul van, had been used on prior occasions to steal scrap. Incident to arrest, officers recovered five MDMA (Ecstasy) tablets on Arroyo’s person. The total value of stolen scrap was tallied at $575. Arroyo was charged with burglary, theft, drug possession and possession of drug paraphernalia. Arroyo was wanted on three warrants issued by Woodbridge Municipal Court, one warrant issued by East Brunswick Court and a wanted persons hit out of Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. Arroyo was later transferred to the Hudson County Jail. On May 16 at 4:04 a.m., Officer Danny Maganinho and several backup officers saturated the area of Chestnut Street and Garfield Avenue after receiving a report of two people burglarizing vehicles. The officers found two people in the area who matched a witness’s description: Silvija Morrison, 40, and Cristian Vasile, 44, both of Kearny. The pair were found standing behind a brown Honda that had been called in as a burglarized car. With them, was a Radio Flyer wagon and a cloth basket loaded with various items including a car trunk organizer, a beach chair and several duffle bags and handbags. Officers observed the unlocked Honda’s glove box was open and the interior of the car had been ransacked. Officers reviewed footage from a nearby Town surveillance camera, which showed Vasile entering the driver and passenger-side doors of the Honda before opening the

trunk and allegedly removing the beach chair and bag containing a vacuum. Officers arrested the duo. From Vasile they seized a glass “crack” pipe, additional drug paraphernalia, a multi-tool and pliers. From Morrison they seized drug paraphernalia and medication prescribed to a third party for whom she could not account.

During this investigation, Officers Miranda and Anthony Oliveira were separately investigating a theft that occurred earlier in the night of a red Radio Flyer wagon and work bench containing Snapon tools. These items were found in Vasile and Morrison’s possession. Both suspects were charged with burglary, theft and pos-

session of drug paraphernalia. Vasile was also charged with possessing burglar’s tools and Morrison was additionally charged with illegally possessing prescription-legend drugs. Morrison was also wanted by Madison Joint Municipal Court on a hindering apprehension charge. The pair were held at the Hudson County Jail.

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STYPLE

Continued from Page 3 with a command post. In spring 1862, Lincoln promoted Kearny to brigadier general and placed him in charge of the 1st New Jersey Brigade, which, according to Styple, came to be “rated the finest in the Army of the Potomac.” Ultimately, he was named to command a division,

comprising three brigades. In charges, Kearny clenched the reins of his horse in his teeth and sword in his one arm, while urging on his men, shouting, “I’m a one-armed Jersey son-of-a-gun, follow me!.” “The Confederates feared him and called him a ‘one-armed devil’ and he often became the target of Confederate riflemen,” Styple said. Kearny, by now a major

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

general, led the Division during the Second Battle of Bull Run and for a brief time, he was assisted by a young staff officer named George Armstrong Custer, who later wrote admiringly of Kearny, crediting him with teaching him the art of soldiering. It was during the Battle of Chantilly in Virginia, on Sept. 1, 1862, while checking a gap in the Union lines during a driving rainstorm, that Kearny was confronted by

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rebel soldiers who ordered him to surrender. He refused and tried to race away, but was killed by a shot fired by an enemy musket. Kearny’s body was turned over to Northern forces and he was buried in Trinity Churchyard in New York. His remains were later moved to Arlington Cemetery in 1912 where a statue by Edward Clark Potter marks his grave, one of only two such statutes at Arlington. One revelation in Styple’s book – based on letters he sent to friends during the war – was that Kearny suspected Maj. Gen. Robert McClellan, who commanded the Army of the Potomac, was secretly negotiating with the South through a staff officer, Col. Thomas M. Key (a cousin of national anthem author Francis Scott Key), who favored emancipation with compensation – a tactic Key and McClellan reportedly believed would persuade the South to call off hostilities with little resulting bloodshed.

Part of Styple’s extensive profile of Kearny includes an examination of his life as a civilian and, in particular, the time and money he invested in his home, Belgrove, built to contain his fabulous arts collection – a wide assortment of statutes, oil paintings, watercolors, etchings and engravings, many illustrative of the Hudson River Artists School. The property was sold off in parcels to various thread works plants that were built off the Passaic River and the mansion house itself was sold in 1926, with its art pieces largely ending up in mostly in private collections. The mansion itself was razed in 1927, as youngsters in nearby Washington Elementary School watched that part of their town’s history disappear. “General Philip Kearny, A Very God of War” will be available for sale through Amazon beginning next month. A hardcover edition is priced at $45. Photo: A corner view of the old Kearny Castle.

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

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Sports & Recreation

Nutley softball team wins state sectional title by knocking off West Morris, 10-5

Photo by Jason Bernstein

By Jason Bernstein Observer Sports Writer

Lia DeMaio knows that she and the rest of her senior teammates have accomplished at Nutley rivals those of just about any class to through the program. But for all of the successes, the Raiders’ star center fielder and leadoff hitter knows that accomplishments have been met with heartbreak of the one thing that had yet to achieve — a championship. By defeating West Morris, 10-5, in the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 final on Thursday, May 26, Nutley did more than just win its first sectional title in seven years. For these seniors, it was the championship they so desperately wanted after falling one win short in this tournament as freshmen and juniors.

Overall, it was the 60th win over the past three seasons produced by this senior class, which includes fouryear starters DeMaio, Fallyn Stoeckel and Sydney Hess. “Coming into this game we were like we’re getting this win. We wanted this win so bad,” DeMaio said. “We’ve come up short so many times that we wanted this win for us and for our team so it was a great feeling to finally get that. “It means the world to me. We’ve been fighting for this since our freshman year so to finally get this, it was a great feeling to do it with my sisters.” Despite an early 1-0 deficit, DeMaio helped ensure this time would be different when she opened the bottom of the first inning with a single, followed by a Robin Niland single and Stoeckel’s RBI double to tie the score.

Sydney Hess and Gianna Lembo both walked to load the bases for Nikki Cicchetti, who hit a bases-clearing double that made it 5-1. “As soon as Lia got on, I knew the first inning was going to be big,” said Stoeckel, who later drew two walks at the plate and struck out five from the circle in the win. “I knew we were going to get more than the other team and we did. After the first inning, everyone relaxed a little bit, we took a deep breath and we were on our way.” Nutley’s offense, which struggled at the beginning of the season, continued its resurgence with a run in the second inning, followed by three in the third behind RBI hits Skye Stoeckel and Mia DiPiano at the bottom of the order to make it 9-1. See SOFTBALL, Page 10

For the third time this season, Kearny volleyball team tops Harrison “(Ethen) played very well today,” said Bill Mullins. “He played smart today and he For the third time this played under control.” season, the Kearny and William Mullins had Harrison boys volleyball eight kills, adding to his teams crossed paths and school single-season kills while the stakes are always record with 268, to go with high when the forever rivals nine digs. Zackaria Abazine square off, there was an added four kills, Anthony added importance knowing Narvaez recorded nine digs that only one would have and Christian Poncio dished another game to play out 25 assists. after Thursday’s NJSIAA In total, seven different North Jersey, Section 2 Kardinals recorded at least quarterfinals. one kill in the win. After another emotionally“It’s important to mix charged contest, it was the things up because we got Kardinals, seeded third, two good outside hitters and who emerged on top and good middle hitters. It keeps lived to play another day, as other teams off-balanced,” they defeated sixth-seeded Bill Mullins said. “We’re Harrison, 25-16, 25-23, in trying to get more of that and Kearny. keeping it simple and under With the victory, Kearny control.” (23-4) advances to the Guilherme Queiroz paced semifinals Wednesday when Harrison with 10 kills. it travels to play secondAdrian Vivanco and Amaru seeded Union. The winner Perales had six kills apiece will play for the sectional with Vivanco adding eight title on Friday. digs. Jose De La Cruz added Harrison finishes its 22 assists. season at 22-7. Kearny, which defeated “We lost the first time 14th-seeded Snyder, 25-17, we played them (and won 25-16, is the last remaining the second in the Hudson local team in the state County Tournament final) tournament after the first so it was like the rubber week of play. match,” Kearny head coach In North Jersey, Section Bill Mullins said. “We knew 1, Belleville, the 11th seed, this was going to be a tough defeated 22nd-seeded West game, Harrison is always Orange in three sets (25-20, prepared. But we were 19-25, 25-23) in Monday’s fortunate enough to get the play-in round before losing win today.” the next day at sixth-seeded Mullins cited an improved Teaneck, 17-25, 25-11, 25-16. balance on the offensive Also, in North 1, 13th-seeded end as a factor in the win. Bloomfield swept 20thIn particular, it meant a seeded Garfield (28-26, 25big day for senior outside 23) on Monday before falling hitter Ethen Lugo, who to fourth-seeded Jefferson, recorded a match-high 10 25-18, 25-14. kills, taking advantage of the Bloomfield finished the extra defensive attention season 15-9 while Belleville that fellow outside hitter concluded the season 14-11. William Mullins receives. Harrison won its first Lugo’s 10 kills matched his round match in the North total from the previous two 2 Section against Elizabeth, Kearny-Harrison matchups 25-18, 27-25. combined. By Jason Bernstein

Observer Sports Writer

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SOFTBALL

Continued from Page 9 In four state tournament games, Nutley’s offense is averaging nearly eight runs per game, outsourcing its opposition 31-6 in the four contests. Since Saturday night’s Essex County Tournament final against Mount St. Dominic, the Raiders erupted for nine runs in a semifinal win over South Plainfield and 10 against West Morris. “The whole state tournament we made sure that we were on it early and got the runs we needed to make sure we could play relaxed,” said DeMaio, who went 3-for-4 with two runs

scored. “It’s great to show that we can actually hit the ball, every single one of us.” “We struggled a little early on (this season) offensively, but they went back to basics and they worked hard,” head coach Luann Zullo said. “We’re peaking at the right time and we keep getting a little better every day which is fantastic.” Nutley looks to continue its state title pursuit on Wednesday when it travels to the winner of Friday’s North 1, Group 3 final between Roxbury and Morris Knolls. Next week however wasn’t on their minds quite yet. Instead the thoughts were directed back to the elusive title and the long journey this group had to finally get

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there. “I was a little emotional because I wanted it so badly for this group of seniors,” Zullo said, recalling the two previous trips to the sectional final, two Essex County Tournament finals and losing their sophomore season due to Covid. “I wanted it so badly for them and they worked so hard. I couldn’t be more proud of them, I couldn’t be more excited for them.” “We all wanted it so bad,” Stoeckel said. “Me, Syd and Lia have been playing here since freshman year. We’ve been playing together for way too many years to count. We needed that. We knew we had to come out and put it away.”

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On Wednesday, May 25, the NJSIAA released the seeds and matchups for the state baseball tournament. In total, five local teams qualified. First-round games for the public school sections are set for Wednesday, June 1, with second round matchups to be played by Saturday, June 4. • North Jersey, Section 1, Group 4 11 -Bloomfield at 6-Columbia, 4 p.m. • North Jersey, Section 2, Group 1 9 -Becton at 8-North Arlington, 4 p.m. • North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2 11 -Leonia at 6-Lyndhurst, 4:15 p.m. • North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 16 -Belleville at 1-Millburn, 2 p.m. 9 -Chatham at 8-Nutley, 4 p.m.

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HHS flag flies at half-staff

KPD: Body pulled from Passaic River not ID’d yet, but search for missing Belleville man is called off By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

POLICE BEAT

kc@theobserver.com

Photo by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

The flag at Harrison High School flies at half-staff last week following the tragic shooting that took place in Uvalde, Texas, and that took the lives of 20 people, including 18 children aged 7 to 10. There was also an increased police presence not just at Harrison HS, but in all schools, statewide, by order of the state attorney general.

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body was pulled from the Passaic River Thursday, May 26, though it was not clear as of presstime whether it’s that of a man reported missing earlier this week. Kearny Police Capt. Timothy Wagner says the Kearny PD were notified May 26 a deceased human body was found at around 11 a.m. on the Newark side of the Passaic River near the Jackson Street Bridge. Newark police are leading the investigation into the recovery. Formal identification of the person recovered is pending an examination by the Northern Regional Medi-

cal Examiner’s Office. However, Kearny police have called off their search for missing man Hector L. Nieves, 33, of Belleville, because of the consistencies between Nieves’s description and that of the recovered person. Police Chief George King offers his condolences to those touched by this tragedy and thanks the many public safety agencies who participated in this search and recovery effort, including the Kearny Fire Department, Jersey City Police Department, Bergen County

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Wednesday, June 1, 2022

NEWS BRIEFS KPD bike safety event set for June 4 at Lincoln MS The Kearny Police Department’s Tour de Force Team hosts a bike safety event at Lincoln Middle School Saturday, June 4 at 9 a.m. Participants should bring their bike, helmet and riding gear to be inspected by the team so they can be prepared to safely hit the road this summer. All ages are welcome. Meet on the Kearny Avenue side of the school.

Deborah Rocha, Jonathan Luisa Abarca, Ian AlaRodriguez, Noah Sales, va, Cody Brimmer, ArianAmelia Santiago, Luna na Brodie-Sosa, Addison Burke,Jaiden Cabanilla-So- Santos, Nicoly Tassi-Libato, Amanda Caldeira, David nori(2), Charlotte Taveras-Brisman and Daniel Caixeta De Sousa, Miyah Valle. Cruz, Hajar Elkassimi, The Observer invites readEmmanuel Encarnacion, ers and organizations to send Rebecca Fernandes, Maria information about events, Ferreira-DaSilva, Victor meetings, etc. While space Garcia, Matthew Gaters, cannot be guaranteed in Abderahmane Heraz, Rita print, we will always do our Hourmati, Sami Hourmati, Aiden Lin, Joshua Loguidbest to print your announceice, Kiara Luengas, Gabriel- ments. la Muniz-Ramirez, Brittany If space is unavailable, we Muyudumbay-Inga, Katie will post the items on our Narvaez, Carlo Nastasi, website and on our social Ouwaiss Ouali, Luis Penati, media pages. Kiara Perez, Daniel Pina, Send to editorial@theobMichelle advertising@theobserver.com 201-991-1600 Arianna Rivera-Chimbo, server.com.

Kearny Ladies of UNICO attended the New Beginnings for Tomorrow (NB4T) Gala to present a donation to NB4T, May 11. NB4T is an educational program for adults 21 and older with disabilities. At the gala were Amy Goldberg, fundraising coordinator, Kerry Bradford, program director, Kearny and UNICO Ladies Pearl Yaszczemski and Celeste Pandolfi.

egistration for Kearny Generals football is underway through July 1, from 9 a.m., to 4:30 p.m., at the Kearny Recreation Department, 402 Kearny Ave. Registration is also available online at register.communitypass.net/townofkearny. The $35 fee include Schuyler School names equipment and uniforms. Students of the Month The team is for boys and The following are SchuyLadies of UNICO make girls in the second through ler School’s Students of the donation to NB4T eighth-grade as of SeptemMonth for April. Representatives of the ber. A copyClient: of the child’s Newspaper: birth certificate must also be included with registraNOTARY SERVICES MADE EASY AT THE OBSERVER’S KEARNY OFFICE tion. A league form, which includes a physical exam, must also be submitted, but that form will be distributed at a later date. Advertising: Here is the updated templatewwFor with a more new photo of Jarlynn Hyd informaSERVICES OFFERED INCLUDE NOTARIZATION OF: tion, call the Rec Department at (201) 955-7983 or n Real Estate Transactions n Mortgage Refinancing send an email to rcattafi@ kearnynj.org. n Will Preparation n Powers of Attorney

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Obituaries Joan Julia Stefano It saddens us to announce the death of our mother, Joan Julia Stefano, of Kearny. She died peacefully in Ellijay, Georgia, on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at 83. She was born in Newark on Feb. 27, 1939, to Walter and Alice Plikaitis. Joan was a remarkably proud woman

who lived life with humility and unwavering strength. Her Lithuanian upbringing helped shape her tenacious personality. She raised four children, Charlene, Michelle, Stephen and Charles, on her own and made life comfortable for us. It wasn’t easy for her, but she stayed focused on her duty of being a good mother, creating an environment for us grow independently. Joan worked for many years at her parents’ store, Walter’s Deli on Quincy Avenue. She later worked at Stop & Shop where she made lasting friendships with her co-workers. She also had many lifelong friends, some from as far

back as elementary school. Joan loved to travel and made several visits to Lithuania, Russia, Ireland, Scotland and Atlantic City casinos. She is survived by her children, Charlene and John Gravley, Michelle and Paul Springer, Stephen Stefano, and Charles Stefano and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. She will be dearly missed. We will hold tight the memories of our mom and friend, in our hearts forever. June E. Thomas June E. Thomas, 86, died Monday, May 23, 2022, in Complete Care at Shorrock

What doctors want you to know to protect yourself from Omicron (StatePoint) Omicron is between 1.5 to 3 times more transmissible than the Delta variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. Additionally, people who manifest symptoms are doing so more quickly than with previous strains -- sometimes just two to three days after exposure. And recent evidence shows daily Omicron deaths in the United States have exceeded those from the Delta variant. Amid these troubling facts, there is pervasive confusion about what steps individuals should be taking right now to protect themselves. “Although we have effective tools -- particularly vaccines -- to limit the spread of the virus and severity of COVID-19, the latest surge of cases fueled by the Omicron variant has created new challenges and raises important questions about masks, testing and isolation guidance,” says Gerald E. Harmon, M.D., president of the American Medical Association (AMA). With easily transmissible Omicron the now dominant variant, here’s what you need to know to keep

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yourself safe, according to the AMA: • Get vaccinated: Although breakthrough infections have increased with Omicron, COVID-19 vaccines remain extraordinarily effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death. All those who are eligible for the vaccine and booster should get them. Learn more at GetVaccineAnswers.org. • Wear a higher-quality mask: The CDC says that while the best mask is the mask you’re going to wear consistently, well-fitted respirators, such as KN95s and N95s, provide the highest level of protection. N95s are no longer in short supply, and the federal government recently announced that it is sending 400 million N95 respirators to pharmacies and community health centers across the country, where you can get them free of charge. In lieu of respirators, surgical masks and double masking also offer additional protection over a cloth mask. • Testing is critical: Visit ama-assn.org/delivering-care for a helpful guide

from the AMA on which test is right for you. You should consider getting tested if you have symptoms or if you have had a known close exposure to someone with COVID-19, and maybe before gathering indoors with people outside of your household. If you test positive, the AMA suggests testing negative before ending any isolation period. An antigen test is the best tool to determine whether someone is still infectious. And even if the repeat test is negative when ending isolation, patients are advised to wear medical grade masks for at least five days after ending isolation. You can receive four free, at-home COVID tests by signing up here: special. usps.com/testkits. “We continue to urge those with questions about COVID-19 vaccines to talk to their physician. Vaccinating as many people as possible and taking the preventive health measures we know work are the only ways to slow the spread and move us closer to the end of this pandemic,” says Dr. Harmon.

Gardens, Brick. A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Cecilia Church, Kearny. Interment was in Arlington Cemetery, Kearny. Condolences and memories may be shared at www. thiele-reid.com. The Thiele Family Funeral Home, Kearny, was in charge. Born in Jersey City, June was raised in Harrison and later moved to Kearny, where she lived most of her life. Mrs. Thomas is survived by her children, Karen L. Roberts

All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission. (Paul), Jacquelyn A. Ashcroft, Vincent J. Thomas (Marie) and Sandra Williams. She was the grandmother of Christopher, Jeffrey, Timothy and Justin Roberts and Kristie and Ryan Thomas and Jack Williams and great-grandmother of Thomas, Kaitlyn, Emily, Connor, Magnus, Sebastian and Riley. June was predeceased by her husband, John M. Thomas “Jack,” her son-in-law, Robert Ashcroft and her Aunt Hannah Comes.

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Last week, students from Lincoln Middle School and the Kearny DPW planted a new tree in front of the school on Kearny Avenue. Yes, Arbor Day was April 29, but the new tree supply — like almost everything else these days — was at a premium, so it had to wait to May 25. Town Administrator Steve Marks and DPW Supt. Kevin Murphy say one of the hurricanes last year took out a total of 100 existing trees, so in a sign of corporate partnership, Amazon agreed to donate 100 new trees to replace the ones that were ruined. This was the first to be planted — the others are expected to arrive and be planted soon, Murphy says. There was absolutely no cost to Kearny taxpayers, Marks reminded us.

Police presence increased at Bergen County houses of worship & schools Houses of worship and schools in Bergen County will be safer in the days ahead, thanks to a new plan from the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office. Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella and Chief Jason Love announced the county-wide plan in response to increasing acts of domestic terrorism across the country and in the wake of the horrific elementary school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. On Thursday, May 19, Love hosted a virtual briefing for clergy leaders to provide information regarding the county’s deployment of additional law enforcement resources to patrol and safeguard community gatherings in the upcoming weeks. Love announced the prosecutor’s office and the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Anthony Cureton, have committed an increased presence by the county’s Rapid Deployment Team with particular focus on houses of worship at strategic times throughout the summer. A few days ago — May 20 through 22 — members of the deployment team visited more than 105 houses of worship, malls and schools. Similarly, local law enforcement agencies are dedicating resources to ensure a regular presence at area schools in the final weeks of the 2021-2022 academic year. “Although there is no credible threat to our area, we feel it is important to heighten our deployment and presence in and around houses of worship starting this weekend,” Love said. “Over the

summer, the public should expect to see high visibility patrols with officers in tactical gear including helmets and rifles and recognize that those officers are not responding to an incident but are there to deter anyone intending to carry out an act of violence. We also appreciate the efforts of all 70 local police departments who have committed to increasing their presence in and around schools throughout the county.” Musella said: “The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office condemns the actions of the individuals who recently carried out brutal acts of terror against innocent people in Buffalo and California, as well as the unspeakable actions of the school shooter in Uvalde, Texas. Targeted and deliberate attacks against people because of their race or religion are especially heinous because they terrorize whole communities not only on that day, but as individuals go about their daily lives wondering where acts of bias will be acted upon. This increased presence is intended to deter and reassure. We are committed to keeping all of Bergen County’s residents safe whether at home, work, school, or while traveling on our roads or shopping in one of our many malls.” Anyone who has been the victim of a bias incident or bias crime is encouraged to call 911 or to report it to their local police department. Acts of bias may also be reported through the Bias Incident Reporting Form available on the New Jersey Attorney General’s website at www.njoag.gov. — CANESSA

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

FLORA

Continued from Page 1 cording to Blood. Board members initially did a “paper screening” of the candidates, then interviewed multiple applicants over several dates before narrowing the field to two finalists, Blood said. If all goes as expected, the board would likely complete the formal installation process at its next meeting on June 13 and Encarnacao would assume the position July 1, Blood said. “I think the board has made an excellent choice,” Blood said of her successor. “Flora has been thoroughly involved in moving the district forward during my tenure as superintendent and I am certain she will continue to lead the district forward in future years.”

Samantha Paris, president of the Kearny Board of Education, said: “Over the last 10 years, Flora and Patty (Blood) have worked side by side to bring this district to where we are today, making significant improvements, and I know Flora will continue the momentum the two of them have built.” Paris said Encarnacao has been instrumental in “changing the curriculum to fit better with our students,” which has helped the district “make great strides with bring up our testing scores in English Language Arts.” She also credited the new chief administrator with leading the way to an “expansion of our pre-K program with the grant monies we have received, affording the children an opportunity they didn’t have before.”

Encarnacao joined the district in 2001 as a bilingual/ English as a Second Language instructor in grades K to 5, then was assigned to first grade. She was named instructional coach in 2009 and in 2011 became director of elementary curriculum and instruction and testing. In 2014, she was appointed director of elementary/ secondary instruction and in late 2021 she was elevated to assistant superintendent. “These are certainly

challenging times and it is an exciting time for education as we have learned to deal with a pandemic,” Encarnacao said Tuesday. “But these are moments where we can change the narrative.” As she settles into her new duties, Encarnacao said she plans to “establish her core team and meet with all of our stakeholders and build on those relationships in new ways.” She pledged to “continue to strengthen the district’s

kc@theobserver.com

earny Eats! returns June 3-19 at many local eateries. It’s all an effort to support Kearny’s restaurant and food businesses, sponsored by the Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone. It will spotlight food and beverage deals and special menu items from dozens of participating Kearny food businesses — from restaurants to bakeries, cafes, bars and more. Offers will include both dine-in and takeout options. “We’re encouraging residents and visitors to once again come out and support our restaurant and food establishments — whether it’s trying something new or returning to an old favorite,” KUEZ Coordinator John Peneda said. “Eat in, get takeout or delivery, call in that order — make a difference and help our local businesses.” Kearny Eats participants represent a range of culinary choices, including Arcos Pastry, Anthony’s Supermarket, Brasas

Grill Bar & Restaurant, Brazilian Spices Restaurant & Steakhouse, Café Chila, Cumbia Café, Curiosity by Intrinsic, Euro Pub, Fresh Ice Cream, Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar, Jimmy’s Restaurant and Lounge, Kearny Café, Leo’s Italian Ice & Ice Cream, Mina’s Café, O’Imperial Bar & Restaurant, Oh! Calamares, Peter’s Pizzeria, Q’tal Bar & Grill, Reilly’s Bar & Grill, Tres Leches Bakery & Café, Ulta Nutrition, Urban Bricks Pizza and Yoli’s Restaurant. The KUEZ is working with Erin Martins, @ TheKearnyInsider, to help spread the news about the program. “Our local identity includes our local restaurants — they are where favorite foods are enjoyed, important life moments are celebrated, and memories are made,” she said. “Kearny Eats is a great way to support your favorite places or find new favorite spots to visit. It’s a win-win for everyone.” Visit www.kearnyeats. com for a complete list of participants and specials, and keep checking back as details continue to be added.

relationship with our parents and all those who contribute to the education of our students.” From a labor standpoint, the new superintendent will be the beneficiary of standing agreements with unions and associations representing district employees before having to begin a new round of negotiations with teachers and office professionals whose contracts are scheduled to be renewed in the 2023-2024 school year.

THINK OF THE

POSSIBILITIES.

CONSIDER PRINTWORK FOR YOUR BUSINESS!

COUNTER CARDS

Kearny Eats! returns June 3 to 19 to many town food spots By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Any flat surface or countertop becomes premium space with easel-backed, full color Counter Cards. Use them in glass display cases, on bookshelves, register counters and tabletops. • Gyms, Studios, Business Offices (Advertising, promos, etc.) • Hotels (Including pricing and service lists) • Real Estate Offices (Inc. property info, pricing, etc.) • Schools • Retail Stores (Showcasing product details)

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The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, June 1, 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.

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS Stable and SAFE work environment and a chance to grow with a solid company •SKILLED CLIMBER & EXPERIENCED GROUND PERSON •DRIVER West Milford/ North Jersey area Experience & Transportation and a valid driver’s license a must Call 973-728-0842 04W12

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Clerk Typist The Town of Kearny is currently accepting applications for the full time position of Clerk Typist for the Health Department to perform various office duties and assisting the public. Computer experience with MS Office and ability to type 40 wpm required. $ 38,415 annually. 35 hours per week. The application may be found here: https://www.kearnynj.org/jobopportunities/ The Application Deadline is 6/24/22. The Town reserves the right to hire a candidate before the due date. 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). 03W03

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Receptionist/Administrative Assistant Pathways is seeking a full time receptionist/administrative assistant. Candidate needs to be detailed oriented and comfortable working in a fast pace office environment. Duties include, phone coverage, typing, tracking fund raising projects, maintain database, and provide administrative support to executive team. Must have High school diploma or equivalent. Three years administrative/clerical experience. Two years’ experience working in social service organization. Proficiency in Microsoft word, power point and excel. M-F 8:30A- 4:30P. Email resume to pti450@aol.com or complete application at Pathways to Independence, Inc. 60 Kingsland Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032

What an Observer Classified gets you ...

02W03

01W09

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Insurance Customer service wanted. Bi-lingual Spanish/ English (Lyndhurst, N.J.) Insurance Agency seeking Customer Service for full time position which offers long term employment and growth potential. Candidates will be trained to service insurance clients. Needs to speak both Spanish and English. Excellent opportunity. Must be client focused. Please e-mail your resume insureme@abbottins.net or call Bill 201-906-6847 03W03

Teacher’s Aide To work with children at Day Care Center in Kearny. Experience or CDA is preferred. Please call after 3:00 pm (201)991-5684

Driver/cleaning person needed. part time 2:30pm - 9:30pm Monday-Friday various hours. Call for interview (201)997-1605

Legal Secretary/Paralegal for Nutley Law Office. Office has a concentration in residential and commercial real estate closings and land use. Organized with attention to detail. 973-235-1414 04W03

Transportation company in Lyndhurst seeks a driver to transport patient's to doctor's appointments. Daytime hours, no weekends. Must feel comfortable driving into NYC., clean driving record a must. We supply company cars. Call us at (201) 460-1001 03W03

02W03

PUBLIC NOTICE We are not a legal paper

Building Inspector/Building Subcode Official Full time/Part Time provisional position. Under direction of the Construction Official, is within the jurisdiction in accordance with the State Uniform Construction Code (UCC). Responsibilities will include building plan review and inspection of all construction projects to ensure compliance with approved plans, specifications and the provisions of the UCC. Additional duties would include general code enforcement, property maintenance, zoning, and resale inspections as needed. Valid NJ driver’s license and HHS license required. NJ CSC title code and job description https://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/05048.htm 35 hours per week. Salary Commensurate with experience with full benefit package for Full Time Status. Position is provisional and subject to the Civil Service exam process. Application Deadline is June 24th. The Town reserves the right to hire a qualified candidate before the end of the advertisement period see application here: https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 04W03

What an ad on Craigslist gets you ... • A free ad • No-shows • Headaches • People from other regions of NJ • Scammers

(EOE)

Public Health Nurse Supervisor Production/Fulfillment Specialist The Town of Kearny is currently accepting applications Pathways is seeking a full time production/fulfillment for the full time position of PUBLIC HEALTH NURSE specialist. Candidate will work within our employment SUPERVISOR (NJ CSC Title Code 02915) services program, working with the adults with The application may be found here: disabilities. Job duties include receiving/invoicing https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ deliveries, loading and offloading delivery trucks, arApplicants must possess a current, valid registration ranging deliveries in designated areas. as a Professional Nurse in the State of New Jersey. Salary dependent upon qualifications. Employment training and supervising individuals in The Application Deadline is 6/24/22. completing work related task. Must have High school The Town reserves the right to hire a candidate diploma or equivalent, valid driver’s license, must have before the due date. experience operating fork lift and pallet jacks The following residential preferences shall apply: M-F 8:30A- 4:30P. Email resume to pti450@aol.com 1. Residents of the Town of Kearny and the or complete application at City of Newark; Pathways to Independence, Inc. 2. Residents of Hudson and Essex Counties; 60 Kingsland Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032 3. Residents of the State of New Jersey. (EOE) Proof of residency is required: applicants shall provide copies of the first page (only) of the last three (3) 02W03 1040 tax returns with the financial data redacted and a Government issued photo identification card (i.e. current NJ Driver’s License. The Town of Kearny Call Mid-Realty today for information how you can 402 Kearny Ave become a real estate agent! Kearny NJ 07032 You have an opportunity to enjoy an independent full EOE/ADA or part time career in real estate in just a few short 03W03 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

View the entire issue online! www.TheObserver.com

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

ATTENTION WESTERN ELECTRIC/AT&T TECHNOLOGIES EMPLOYEES IF YOU WORKED AT WESTERN ELECTRIC IN KEARNEY/MURRAY HILL, NJ DURING THE YEARS OF: 1957-1977 PLEASE CALL JANELL AT 618-650-6227 04W03

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Wednesday, June 1, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Observer Classifieds

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KEARNY Stewart Ave., N.ARLINGTON 2nd ﬂoor, spacious LR, Garden Apartment for DR, eat-in kitchen, 2 bedrent. Nice area. 1 BR.3 rooms, bath, off-street rooms. $1600 + 1 months parking, storage, back- security. H/HW included. yard, No pets/smoking, No Pets/Smoking. Single or Couple preferred. $1,700 + utilities, secuParking available. rity deposit. (908) 771Laundry on premises. 0762. 03W03 Call between 10am - 7pm (201)997-2341 02W03 KEARNY 4 Rooms, H/ HW, cooking gas included. Close to shopping N.ARLINGTON Beautiful and transportation. No modern apartment, Large Pets. 1.5 mths security. rooms. 2 BR. EIK. LR/DR. (201)997-3757 03W03 Closed to all major transportation. Hot water paid KEARNY by owner. Electric & heat Remodeled, 1 bedroom. paid by tenant. $1850 + 3 room apartment. 1.5 months security. No $1,550/mth plus pet/smoking. Desired lo1 mth security. Supply own utilties. cation and plenty of pubOff street parking. lic parking. Available now No Pets/Smoking. (201) 577-6443 02W03 Single or couple preferred. Call between 10am-7pm (201)997-2341 04W03 NORTH ARLINGTON Studio apartment with Kitchen $1,200 + 1 months securtiy. Heat/HW supplied. Single or couple preferred. 1st ﬂoor in garden apartment complex. Laundry on site. Parking available. LYNDHURST Close to trans and shopping. No Pets. Call between 10am -7pm only. LYNDHURST Cozy Two room Studio clean w/ Couple or single preferred (201)997-2341 ample closet space in a 04W03 private home. Walk to bus & trains Incl all utilities & street park. No laundry. No Pets/Smoking Prefer single professional Asking $1250 plus one month sec w/ credit check. Available June 15th Please call 201-355-8175 03W03

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NOTARY SERVICES MADE EASY AT THE OBSERVER’S KEARNY OFFICE

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Call or email for appointment (201) 991-1600 lisa@theobserver.com

Tues-Friday, 10a-2p other hours by request. An appointment is required. | No walk-ins

VISIT WWW.THEOBSERVER.COM TO MAKE APPOINTMENT ONLINE

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Thistle Storm B2007 wins state tournament, but needs your help to get to regionals in W. Va.

he Kearny Thistle United Storm B2007 recently won the New Jersey Youth Soccer President’s State Cup and now they’re ready to move on to the US Youth Soccer East Region President’s Cup in West Virginia but to get there, they’re going to need your help. “We believe the time is now for these young men to continue to etch their

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

names in history and carry the lineage of soccer into the future for years to come,” Thistle organizers say. “We want to continue competition, camaraderie and community.” Here’s where you come in. The West Virginia tournament takes place June 17-21 and donations will be used to lodging and the ever-expensive gas it will take to travel. The Kearny Thistle

United FC is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit so all donations are tax deductible. Checks may be made to Kearny Thistle United and sent to 48 Madison Ave., Kearny, N.J. 07032. Those with Venmo may send donations @ kearnythistleunited. Have questions or concerns? Call (201) 8931787. — CANESSA

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Wednesday, June 1, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

MARY

Continued from Page 1 then when I’d go to put it up, the space was too small. So the piece just kind of stuck with me with noplace to go.” As luck would have it, though, he again came across the painting a few weeks ago, and he noticed, for the first time, that the painter left a signature on it in the bottomright corner. So he decided to try a Google search. “I really like to know about the painters whose work I have,” Doyle says. “So I did the Google search, ‘Mary Tortoreti and artist,’ and up came, unfortunately, her obituary from 2016. I was so disappointed she was gone, but then I got to reading about her and I was certain I had the right person. The obituary noted she loved to paint, cross that off, and she and her husband loved trips to Cape Cod, and this was a Cape Cod painting, so cross that off, too. It was definitely hers. And she just seemed like the type of woman I wished I had known in life.” The Mary Tortoreti he references, of course, is the late former matriarch and owner of The Observer, the mother of our current co-owners, Lisa M. Feorenzo and Tina Feorenzo. Indeed, our Mary loved painting and occasionally, she and her Tony — late husband Anthony Tortoreti — loved hopping in their traveling van to take random, unplanned trips to the Cape. So while we can’t be sure just when Mary created this work of art, we’re pretty confident it was either done whilst she and Tony visited the Cape, or it was at the very least inspired by one of those random trips. And while Lisa, nor Tina, nor anyone else, can figure out how this painting got to where it did — Mary never sold her artwork (unless she did and didn’t tell us), we can presume it got to Saugerties because she and Tony once had a home in Hyde Park, New York, Dutchess County, once also of the home of President Franklin Delano and Eleanor Roosevelt, itself about 80 miles from here. Now, since Doyle was confident he found his painter, he wanted to take this a step

further. “This painting, beautiful as it is, probably would have some major significance to someone who knew Mary and who loved Mary,” Doyle says. “So since The Observer was mentioned in her obituary and since it was where I found the obit, I did some digging, having read who her survivors were — and I found Lisa. I then decided to contact her to see if she’d like the painting.” And that is exactly what Doyle did, much to the absolute amazement of our Lisa, who got an email from Doyle a few weeks ago and who couldn’t believe what she was reading. It was so emotional that she called yours truly immediately after she got the email and asked me to look at my own email. It was a forward of Doyle’s — and looking at the painting was like Mary was brought back to us one more time for good measure. “I just couldn’t believe it,” Feorenzo recalls of Doyle’s email. “He sent an attachment photo of the painting and sure enough, it was mom’s. Her signature was plain as day at the bottom of it. It was very emotional to have someone I’ve never met contact me with a piece of history that to Tina and to me is priceless. ” And that’s part of the reason Doyle’s email and kindness goes even further than what meets the surface. You see, he wants to give the painting to Lisa and Tina to add to their collections that already don the walls in each of their homes. It’s something the sisters already treasure, though the painting still isn’t in hand — though it will be soon. For Doyle, it was cathartic — and for good reason. The 70-year-old Doyle was born to two deaf parents and there isn’t much by way of photos of his youth. However,

someone he knew had what he estimates was an 8mm video of him and his late parents from his childhood. He put off asking to see the video. And, as luck would have it, the person who possessed it died before he could get to see it. And, in an even greater twist of fate, the offspring of the video holders also died, not too long after their parents did. She as close as he was to seeing this video of himself as a child, it never happened. “But I hope bringing this joyful piece back to Lisa will bring her comfort, because a

part of Mary, no longer here physically, will be with her and her sister yet again — and that is exactly where it belongs. And maybe, just maybe, because of my deed, there will be karma of sorts that allows me to eventually see that video. It won’t have sound, but seeing it would be priceless.” As priceless as Mary’s painting, no doubt, will be once Lisa and Tina may reclaim it. Oh, and before anyone worries, Doyle wants nothing for the painting he may have paid $5 or $10 for. “It will mean more to them

than it ever could for me, as nice as it is,” Doyle says. “That’s what I let Lisa know right away I wasn’t looking to extort her for money or anything. When they reclaim it, it will be exactly where it belongs — in their hands. Her artwork was totally amazing. The control she had over that teeny brush is Smithsonian. Must have been a meditative activity for her.” A left, it’s Walter’s Landing, because Mary’s dad, Walter, loved cabins. In right photo, Mary also loved flowers. Both are from 1988.

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Wednesday, June 1, 2022

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