Issuu

Wednesday, 10 August 2022

www.TheObserver.com

Vol. CXXXV, No. 14

Your ad could be here! BELLEVILLE n BLOOMFIELD n EAST NEWARK n HARRISON n KEARNY n LYNDHURST n NORTH ARLINGTON n NUTLEY

Call us at 201-991-1600 for more information.

IN MEMORIAM

BRYAN GRANELLI, MEMBER OF KEARNY’S BOARD OF EDUCATION, DIES AGED 54 By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

ack in 2015, when the Board of Education was faced with a vacancy among its own, the group voted unanimously, 8-0, to pick Bryan J. Granelli to fill the seat. He had the experience they were looking for as a former executive and then owner and founder of a private security firm that often dealt with schools. He had a daughter in the Kearny School system. He was the right man at the right moment, as it goes. In the years that followed, with a break from the board for a short period of time, Granelli served with distinction, always putting the needs of children above everything else. However, in

Contributed photo

Board of Education trustee Bryan Granelli, 54, seen here with his wife, died Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2022.

what could only be described as unexpected, shocking — Granelli died Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2022.

He was just 54. Granelli was born Oct. 29, 1967, the second of five children. He was raised in

Kearny where he attended Franklin School. He then went on to St. Peter’s Preparatory School, graduating

in 1985. Four years later, he earned a degree in accounting from St. Peter’s College in 1989. He worked in the private security field for many years before founding his own firm, Patriot Security Group. Bryan was described as the ultimate family man. He married wife Jacqueline in 2005 and they settled in Kearny. They have two daughters, Jessica and Abaigeal (Abbey). Jess married Nick Paonessa and have three children, Jordan, Cameron and Carter. He was known to be a great dad, a loving husband, a doting grandfather, loving son and brother and a favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews. He was best known in See GRANELLI, Page 15

Major closures coming for Route 21 rehabilitation By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

et ready for some traffic nightmares on Route 21. The New Jersey Department of Transportation announced upcoming lane and shoulder closures on Route 21 this week as a pavement preservation project begins in Belleville, Nutley, Clifton

and Passaic. Beginning at 9 a.m., Monday, Aug. 8, until 3 p.m., contractors are scheduled to close the left lane on Route 21 in both directions between Terry Street in Belleville and Dayton Street in Passaic for survey work. In addition, the shoulder will be closed

End of Summer

Google Maps

See 21, Page 18

! R E L SIZZPromotion

Pay for 2 ads, receive the 3rd ad

FREE!

For ads placed in August and September Contact your sales representative today!

201.991.1600

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

New Supt. takes helm in East Newark By Ron Leir For The Observer

hen East Newark welcomes students and staff back to school in September, it’ll be a literal homecoming for many kids and teachers. That’s because the Board of Education has discontinued its leasing of space at the former Holy Cross School in neighboring Harrison for grades 6, 7 and 8 and for preschoolers. Middle-schoolers, instead, will return to the borough’s only elementary school on North Third Street while

3- and 4-year-olds will be shifting to new quarters at Harrison’s Lincoln Elementary School, just two blocks from the borough border. It’s part of the changing landscape in the borough, which has a new superintendent, Rosaura “Rosie” Bagolie, replacing Richard Corbett, who resigned in April, and a new business administrator, Emidio D’Andrea, in place of Paul Vizzuso, who also resigned. The borough school board voted July 13 to authorize the middle schoolers’ return and the shift of three

BAGOLIE

full-day pre-K classes to Lincoln School under a $95,000-a-year lease which, Bagolie said, is being funded through a federal pre-school expansion grant, renewable

Harrison Plaza • 442 Bergen Street • Harrison, NJ 07029

Ristorante & Pizzeria

Open 7 Days • Catering Available

OFFERING DINE-IN / CURBSIDE / DELIVERY Wine • Beer • Cocktails

Tel: 973.484.5770 • Fax: 973.484.2864

INJURY ATTORNEYS ANTHONY J. RIPOSTA, ESQ.

(201) 991-0067

each year. This represents the third move for pre-K, which started as a part-time program at the borough school, then was moved to the borough recreation center during the pandemic, then was split between the Borough School and Holy Cross as a full-day program after the borough said it needed to make “critical facilities repairs” (still awaited) at the rec center. When the fall term opens next month, East Newark pre-K will operate out of Lincoln School where contractors, who’ve been overhauling old HVAC systems to install airconditioning buildingwide for the first time, are working at an accelerated pace to prepare classrooms and bathrooms for the new arrivals. The classrooms the pre-K kids will move into at Lincoln School were last occupied by kindergarteners, who relocated to Kennedy School when it opened in September 2021. Students from grades 2 and 3 remain in Lincoln. So far, 31 pre-schoolers have signed up via early registration, Bagolie said. A resolution adopted by the borough school board said Gov. Phil Murphy’s executive order ending the COVID-19 health emergency and “precluding the need for social distancing among students and staff” cleared the way for the return of middle school students to their home district. Bagolie said the move will result in a “big cost savings” for the district since it will no longer be paying rent for the use of Holy Cross. Corbett, who starts a new job as superintendent of the Rockaway Township

school district, labeled the abandonment of Holy Cross a misstep. At Holy Cross, he said, middle schoolers were spread comfortably over 10 air-conditioned classrooms rather than being “packed like sardines” in three rooms at the borough school and enjoyed the use of a “full-size gym and cafeteria” instead of no gym and a tiny basement lunchroom shared with others. “These students deserve much more than that,” Corbett said. Meanwhile, Bagolie is gearing up for her first full year as chief school administrator in the borough. She completed her B.A., M.A. and Ed.D., all at Seton Hall University, and has logged 21 years as an educator spread over six school districts. She has been in the East Newark district since 2019, when she was hired as a learning consultant, then as supervisor of special services. She was named principal/ superintendent July 1, 2022, working under a 5-year contract. “I love it here and I really identify with the students and families,” Bagolie said. A high percentage of the school population are from immigrant households with limited command of English. “I arrived in the United States with my family in 1987 not knowing a word of English. I was the youngest of four girls and our parents worked very hard to bring us up, so when I look at these students and their families, I see a reflection of myself in them. It’s truly a labor of love.” Turns out Bagolie also has political aspirations, as well — she’ll be running for a seat on the Township Council in Livingston in November. 233 Kearny Ave., Kearny

201-997-2360

CORY ANNE CASSIDY, ESQ.

www.ripostacassidylaw.com

Michael Symeonides

Since 1965, service has been the key to our success! Quality Coverage at Competitive Rates! Auto - Home - Business - Life Let us show you how to save! www.sasinsurance.com • Se Habla Espanol • Nos Falamos Portuguese

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Thistle baseball? No, you’re not misreading this

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

hen anyone from Kearny or West Hudson for that matter hears the word “thistle,” two things likely come right to mind — soccer and fish & chips But that understanding of the word will soon change, especially on the sports end of it all. Here’s how. About a year ago, two dads were talking in a back yard, thinking about where they could find a baseball travel/ club for their two sons. The dilemma was both of the boys played travel soccer on Kearny Thistle United FC — so finding a baseball club that doesn’t discourage multisport athletes was proving to be a challenge. Couple that with the extremely high cost involved in travel/club baseball, it would otherwise force the boys to only be able to choose one sport over the

other. That’s when Kevin Kinsley Sr., said: “Why don’t we start our own baseball program?” Being on the board of directors with Kearny Thistle United FC, Billy Alvarez immediately suggested the idea to the board — and with their approval, Kearny Thistle Baseball was born. One year later, the 11U program won a USABL championship, recently won a USABL tournament in Carteret, as well as being very highly competitive against just about every known travel/club program they’ve faced. They are currently led by head coach and Kearny multi-sport athlete Craig Smith. Smith was born and raised in Community Kearny and has played College soccer with the Kearny Opportunity Grant Thistle FC Program as well as playing soccer and baseball at See THISTLE, Page 8

Thistle photo

The Thistle 11U baseball team includes, standing, from left, Kevin Kinsley Jr, Ayden Vargas, Giovanny Arcos, Tyler Boston, Daniel Valle and Asher Carney. Kneeling, from left, Dominic DeSordi, Jon Rocco, Sean Gunby, Justin Morales, Amare Garrett, and Owen Alvarez. The coaches are, standing the rear, Craig Smith, Kevin Kinsley Sr. and Billy Alvarez.

DISCOVER WHY REGISTER NOW for Fall 2022 classes at HCCC!

HCCC Offers Classes in Multiple Modalities On-Campus, Online, Remote, Hybrid (On-Campus/Online), Hybrid (Remote/Online), and Immersive Telepresence Video (ITV)

Pet Direct ry Bone Appétit Barkery

FREE TUITION for Eligible Students

through the Community College Opportunity Grant (for those who qualify) For more information, go to: www.hccc.edu/freetuition

PET SALON & BAKERY Certified Professional Dog & Cat Grooming

169 Midland Ave. • Kearny, NJ • (201) 955-2306 boneappetite@verizon.net

TO ADVERTISE, PLEASE CALL 201-991-1600.

Classes begin on Wednesday, August 31, 2022 View Course Schedule at www.hccc.edu/schedule APPLY NOW for Fall classes! www.hccc.edu/apply For more information on how to register, go to www.hccc.edu/admissions/register-for-classes For more information contact: admissions@hccc.edu | text (732) 509-4222 or call (201) 714-7200 Fall 2022 Registration ad- KO.indd 1

IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION Opinion.................................................................................................Page 6 Sports..................................................................................................Page 9 Health & Wellness Directory...............................................................Page 10

7/28/2022 4:11:56 PM

Obituaries..........................................................................................Page 13 Classifieds ��Pages 16-17 Business Dir...................................................................................Page 18

4 5 new firefighters, 4 captains take oath in Harrison The Observer | www.theobserver.com

By Ron Leir

For The Observer

ive rookies were sworn in as new firefighters and four veteran fire officers were made permanent fire captains in a public ceremony Aug. 3 at Harrison Fire Headquarters. Mayor James Fife welcomed everyone and introduced the additions to the HFD and the

fire captains. “What a great group!” he said. At that point, Harrison Fire Capt. Billy Faulkner, outfitted in a traditional kilt, piped in the honorees as they marched into the town’s primary fire station on Sussex Street where an audience of family, friends and fellow firefighters awaited. First, Fife swore in the captains and they received their badges from the chief and

Fire Director Harold Stahl. Michael J. Granato, Eric S. Hausmann, Kevin T. DeGaetano and James K. Patterson are the new captains. All have been serving in an acting capacity for the past two years, helping break in a new piece of apparatus and the new fire company assigned to it during the pandemic, storms and rescues. “Their leadership has gone

LIGHT BLUE

by Dolce & Ga bbana 1.7 oz.

$55 RY BURBER BRIT

Summer

erry by Burbe Parfum

au 3.4 oz. E

$55

VISIT WWW.ILOVEPERFUME.US FOR OUR ENTIRE COLLECTION! 125 KEARNY AVE. • KEARNY, NJ • (201) 246-0923

ILP201

iloveperfumenj

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

HFD image of the newly sworn.

a long way to helping our department grow,” Chief Richard said. Next to be sworn in were Probationary Firefighters Cristina Sanchez, Christian Marulanda, Travis Marra and Evan Morris, all of whom recently completed training at the Morris County Fire Academy and Firefighter Matthew Nicastro, who did training with a prior class, but was unavailable for a prior induction ceremony due to a scheduling conflict. He’s already completed Harrisonbased field orientation. “Our recruits came out 1, 2, 3 in physical training at the Academy and Sanchez finished as the ‘most improved’ among all trainees,” Richard said. Of a total of 54 firefighter candidates from Harrison, Kearny, North Hudson Fire & Rescue, Bloomfield, Montclair, Irvington, Perth Amboy and Morristown, only 34 graduated. “This academy is probably the toughest in the state,” he said. Some brief bios on the rookies: n Sanchez, who attended Montclair State University, enlisted in the Air Force in 2006 where she received numerous citations including the Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon Award is now serving in the N.J. Air National Guard. She previously handled data entry for a maintenance management analyst firm. n Marulanda attended Bergen Community College and Community College of the Air Force. He enlisted in the Air Force in 2011 where he earned numerous awards including the National Defense service medal and is currently a member of the Air National Guard. Previously, he was an explosive detection K9 handler. n Travis Marra attended Stockton University and

previously worked as an account executive/operations analyst. In between classes at the Morris Fire Academy, he got married. n Evan Morris attended Fairleigh Dickinson University. A certified CPR instructor, he previously handled training of security personnel for American Dream in East Rutherford. n Nicastro, who was hired in March 2020, graduated from the Morris Academy in September 2020 and has been performing firefighting duties since then. He attended Arizona State University and enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2012, earning many awards including the Inherent Resolve Campaign medal and serving as an active reservist until 2018. He previously worked as a fire suppression systems estimator. The HFD is poised for additional growth, Richard said, with six recruits slated to begin a new round of training classes at the Morris Academy, starting Sept. 6. Assuming all six complete training, and counting three current firefighters in the military reserves, the department will have reached its maximum allowable strength (Table of Organization) of 45 personnel — the highest it’s been since 2010, when the state directed the town to trim its uniformed and civilian work force due to its then-shaky fiscal situation it has since reversed. Now, the chief said, the department’s plan is to go to 49 personnel, with approval by the mayor and Town Council, Along with the beefed-up personnel, the chief said the HFD has also begun to diversify its ranks, which now include six Latinos, two African-Americans and two women, with a third woman slated to start academy training next month.

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Nearly 50 cadets take part in Kearny Junior Police Academy

own son was a cadet. The cadets also saw presentations from the Hudson For nearly 50 young people, County Prosecutor’s Office’s the thought of rising early, then Crime Scene Unit, the NJ State going through the daily grind of Police’s Aviation Unit and they a Junior Police Acadedemy for also had a chance to visit the a week in hot, humid condiSept. 11, 2001, Memorial at the tions, had to be daunting. World Trade Center in ManBut in reality, that is exactly hattan. what happened as the Kearny The academy has been Police Department put on the around for more than a dozen JPA at Lincoln Middle School advertising@theobserver.com 201-991-1600 years since Corbett founded it last week. and it is nowClient: led by the current r: We had a chance to visit Aug. Community Oriented Policing 3, when the Hudson CounUnit, with commanding officer ty Sheriff's Office’s K-9 Unit Sgt. Adriano Marques and Ofstopped by with thtree officers ficers Jack Grimm and Vanessa and three dogs. One pup, Hope, Sevillano. was the star of the show (she's One of the cadets caught the bloodhound in the photos at our ear and summed the JPA the right.) She's to track dvertising: Here is thetrained updated template with succintly. a new photo ofwe Jarlynn Hyde: up pretty “When human scents and demonstratstarted, I wasn’t used to taking ed her ability to find a hiding Lt. orders,” he said. “But I am Jack Corbett Jr. learning it is important to take Corbett is a founding officer directions. I’m learning a lot.” of the JPA and this year, his By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

Observer

Mid-Realty, Inc.

Let’s Talk

Real Estate Presented by Jarlynn Hyde Broker/Owner

THE ART OF THE SMALL KITCHEN Kitchens are one of the main areas of focus for home buyers and sellers alike. Smaller kitchens can be a big problem, but with an open mind, you may discover ways to enhance the space that will make you fall in love with the tiny kitchen concept. Because counter space is often the main concern when dealing with a small kitchen, look for a wall where you could add a pop-up counter or a slide out cutting board. Open shelving is very popular right now and can help make a small room seem larger without compromising storage. If you are selling a home with a small kitchen, be

sure to organize the space well and minimize clutter. Looking for a real estate professional who has the experience to show a property to its best advantage? For ways to maximize the appeal of your home the moment a prospective buyer walks in, call on our family owned and operated agency. Our strengths include our professionalism and vast knowledge of the real estate process, whether buying or selling. We’d love to add you to our ever-growing list of successful house buyers and sellers. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”

Visit out website at: www.midrealty.com P.S. When dealing with a small kitchen, keep colors light and include strategic lighting to make the space seem larger and neater.

Mid-Realty, Inc.

572 Kearny Avenue • Kearny, NJ 07032 Office: (201) 991-5719 • Cell: (201) 602-7222 Please visit our website at:

www.midrealty.com

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Opinion & Viewpoints COMMENTARY

Every youngster should go through a Junior Police Academy

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

ast week, for the first time in a couple of years — thanks again, COVID-19 — I had a chance to visit a junior police academy, the one the Kearny Police Department was putting on at Lincoln Middle School. There were nearly 50 cadets there, one of the largest classes since it started give or take a dozen years ago. These days, it’s coordinated by Sgt. Adriano Marques and Officers Jack Grimm and Vanessa Sevillano. When I was there, I saw a remarkable demonstration from the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office’s K-9 unit, with bloodhound Hope stealing the show. For an entire week, cadets were exposed to many elements of the administration of justice. The crew does a fantastic job. They kept a group of almost 50 kids in line and respectful throughout. And Kearny’s isn’t the only JPA. A week earlier, Officer Billy Erezuma and Chief Anthony Monteiro, of the East Newark PD, put on its first-ever JPA — and it was clearly successful. Other departments, including Harrison & Lyndhurst put on similar programs. We will feature Lyndhurst’s next week. Consider this: Every cadet goes for a nominal fee, though inability to pay would never preclude a cadet from attending. Every cadet, usually between 10 & 13, gets a sense of what it’s like to be a cop, they learn discipline, physical agility and so much more — and it sure seems like cadets start off unaware of what they’ll face, and finish with a greater sense of honor, responsibility, respect for others and many other attributes youngsters lack today. Every kid should go through this experience, frankly, because it makes them all better, more compassionate, human beings. Now, a week ago, in this space, we lamented how bail reform leads people of all ages — including the young — to do whatever the heck they want without fear of the consequences. A week later, we’re reminded by East Newark and Kearny and all other departments that put on JPAs that there is hope. There is reason to be optimistic. There is reason to not just believe, but to be certain, the future of law enforcement will one day be in great hands. And because of the dedication of people like Monteiro, Marques, Erezuma, Grimm, Sevillano and so many others, we can rest assured these kids are well prepared for that and so much else. That, for sure, is more than one could ask for.

‘Hideous Bag Ban’ not so bad; Jersey could do worse: Miller LETTER TO THE EDITOR

To the Editor: Maybe it’s because I believe in something bigger than myself such as the environment. Or maybe it’s because I only care about myself as I’m not affected by this since I do my errands on foot, live two blocks from a supermarket and have been shopping with my own reusable bags for years. Or perhaps it’s a little of both. Either way, hear me out. You can save big by bringing just one or two reusable bags to the store as opposed to pushing a cart and loading it with a lot of impulse buys. It can also get you in and out of the store quicker instead of devoting a large portion of your weekend or evening walking up and down supermarket aisles. That’s because when you walk in with just a couple bags, you’re more inclined to do what a certain insurance company’s slogan says: pay only for what you need. When you arrive home, putting away your groceries will be done in seconds instead of playing live action Tetris in the pantry and refrigerator just to end up throwing half of it out when the expiration dates are long past

and the perishables that looked like a good idea at that time to cook or use some day are now growing new visible life forms. It may mean a couple more trips to the store, but they would be short and sweet instead of some dreadful large-scale operation. But it’s not up to me to say that a lowmaintenance and practical lifestyle is for everyone. Should voters think about this next election? Perhaps they already did. Maybe those who implemented this were elected by voters who thought about the number of EPA Superfund sites in the area, the rates of asthma and cancer in certain parts of the state or drastic changes in climate. Would this policy be on the top of my agenda if I was an elected official? No. The closest I’d come if under enough pressure would be a softer approach such as an incentive program. Sure, plastic bags are still a thing but if you do your part to leave a cleaner

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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

and livable planet for future generations by bringing your own reusable bags, then you get a decent discount off your order. While the new policy in place is clearly bolder than one I would go for, it’s still no reason for me to compromise my principles and vote against my own interests on other matters. Do voters need to “wake up” because of this? They should always be awake and keep their government in check. But do you know what’s more inconvenient than a bag ban? A less reliable transportation system and infrastructure. Longer wait times and more hoops to jump through when time to use government services you’ve already been paying for. Do you know what’s more authoritarian than the state telling grocers to no longer use plastic bags? The state telling responsible adults which vices they can’t indulge. The state telling which adults can and can’t love and marry each other. The state telling women what they can and can’t do with their own bodies. The state banning See LETTER, Page 8

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

Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising

Robert P. Pezzolla gm@theobserver.com General Manager

Jason Bernstein Kevin A. Canessa Jr. Michelle Rybeck Kimberley Pezzolla kc@theobserver.com advertising@theobserver.com jason@theobserver.com kimpezzolla@theobserver.com Sports Writer Editor/Broadcaster Graphic Artist/Real Estate Sales/Classifieds

Newspaper Deadlines

The Observer on Social Media

n Classifieds: 3 p.m., Monday

facebook.theobserver.com

n Obituaries: 10 a.m., Monday

twitter.theobserver.com

n Display/Real Estate: noon, Thursday n Help Wanted: noon, Monday — all ads must be

sent to classified@theobserver.com.

instagram.theobserver.com youtube.theobserver.com

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

KPD: LEON-LEON ARRESTED ARRESTED FOR CRASHING HIS CAR INTO SEVERAL PARKED CARS CARS By Capt. Timothy Wagner Kearny Police Department

n July 23 at 4:27 a.m., Officer Jose Castillo was dispatched to a car crash at the Mandee parking lot on Chestnut Street. He found that a Mazda SUV had rolled into several parked cars. In the driver’s seat of the Mazda the officer found Cesar A. Leon-Leon, 59, of Kearny, who was described as sweating profusely. The officer coached Leon-Leon into shifting his transmission from neutral to park and detected signs of impairment. Leon-Leon was reportedly trying to park in his rented parking space, but he was on the wrong end of the lot. Officer Castillo arrested Leon-Leon after he failed field sobriety tests. Leon-Leon was charged with DWI, refusal to submit to breath testing, and reckless driving. He was later

released with summonses. On July 21 at 5:05 p.m., Officers Jordan Miranda, Ryan Brady, Kevin Carvalho and Harold Azurdia were dispatched to a domestic dispute at a private home. Officers were met outside by a 20-year-old resident with scratches and red marks on her wrist and thighs. The injured woman told police her live-in mother beat her with a belt during an argument about marijuana use. Officers arrested the 52-year-old mother on aggravated assault and weapon charges. She was later released with a summons. On July 23 at 4:27 a.m., Officer Jose Castillo was dispatched to a car crash at the Mandee parking lot on Chestnut Street. He found that a Mazda SUV had rolled into several parked cars. In the driver’s seat of the Mazda the officer found Cesar A. Leon-Leon, 59, of

Kearny, who was described as sweating profusely. The officer coached Leon-Leon into shifting his transmission from neutral to park and detected signs of impairment. Leon-Leon was reportedly trying to park in his rented parking space, but he was on the wrong end of the lot. Officer Castillo arrested Leon-Leon after he failed field sobriety tests. Leon-Leon was charged with DWI, refusal to submit to breath testing, and reckless driving. He was later released with summonses. On July 23 at 6:11 p.m.,

by fingernail scratches. Officers arrested the wife for simple assault. She was later released with a summons. On July 25 at 12:16 a.m., Officers Collins and San Martin investigated a motor vehicle crash on Hackensack Avenue. Driver Rovi Sese, 31, of Jersey City, had been stopped at a red light and was struck from behind by a Chevy SUV driven by Alan Washington, 63, of Allentown, Pennsylvania. Officer Collins arrested Sese after learning that his driver’s license was suspended and he had warrants out for his arrest from Newark and Clinton. Officers San Martin and Jose Castillo then arrested Washington after detecting signs of impairment and administering field sobriety tests. Sese was charged by

Officers Tom Collins and Bryan San Martin responded to a domestic dispute at a private home. They found a 39-year-old husband with injuries to his forearm and left eyebrow. Reportedly, the victim had an argument with his 43-year-old wife after discovering she was electronically-tracking his car to discover if he drives home after drinking at bars. During the argument, the wife allegedly cut her husband’s eyebrow by throwing a cellular phone at his face. It was believed the injury to his arm was caused

See KPD, Page 19

Lusitania

SAVINGS BANK

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT LOANS

Special Promotional Low Rates

Supporting Investment in Local Commercial Real Estate WWW.LUSITANIABANK.COM/MORTGAGES 107 Pulaski Street, Newark, NJ 07105 • (973) 344-5125 Ext. 129 www.lusitaniabank.com NMLS # 640892 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY LENDER

TODAY’S LOAN RATES Payment Example: $10.36 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000 10-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 4.500% will result in 120 payments of $1,036.38 on owner occupied 5+ multi-family. Payment Example: $7.65 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000 15-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 4.500% will result in 180 payments of $764.99 on owner occupied 5+ multi-family. Payment Example: $10.48 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000 10-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 4.750% will result in 120 payments of $1,048.48 on investment 5+ multi-family. Payment Example: $7.78 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000 15-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 4.750% will result in 180 payments of $777.83 on investment 5+ multi-family. Actual monthly payment may be higher because example does not include applicable property taxes, fees, insurance premiums or other related costs. Annual percentage rate (APR) based on $100,000.00 loan with a 10-year & 15-year amortization term. Financing on properties located in Essex, Union, and Hudson Counties. Minimum finance charge of $955.00. New loans only. Rates and annual percentage rates are based on 75% loan to value with 25% equity or 25% down payment. Rates and annual percentages are effective as of the publication date of this ad and are subject to change. Please speak with our Mortgage Department for additional terms and conditions that may apply. Subject to credit approval. Other rates and programs are available.

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

Woman’s Club of Arlington sends 2 Kearny teens to Girls’ Career Institute at Rutgers

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

he Woman’s Club of Arlington has a long history of sponsoring outstanding high school female juniors for attendance at Girls' Career Institute, an annual program at Douglass College founded by the club women of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC). This year, the delegates were Emily Horvaht and Maci Covello. Horvaht is an outstanding candidate. She is a member of the National Honor Society and the Latin National Honor Society. She volunteers

by tutoring, assisting with fundraisers and coaching the Kearny Kickers team. She is interested in the medical field and found the course in respiratory therapy of great interest. Covello is the captain of the girls’ basketball team, won three varsity letters as a freshman and is a member of the National Honor Society. She participates in food and clothing drives, coaches soccer and focuses on developing youth athletics. Her goal is to become an elementary school teacher and soccer coach. The GCI allows high school junior girls to participate in an annual four-day “mini college experience”

CLUBS & ORGS at Douglass College on the campus of Rutgers University in New Brunswick. During this year’s event —

BREAKFAST SOUP SALAD

THISTLE

LETTER

Continued from Page 6 certain parts of history and science from being taught in schools. The list goes on regarding the matters that sparked me to “wake up” as a

voter years ago. But if you’re still hung up over wanting plastic bags at the grocery store, pay a visit to the produce section and you’ll be happy to see what awaits you with twist-ties just like the good old days. For now, at least. Andrew Miller North Arlington

WWW.THEOBSERVER.COM

of professions, trades and academic disciplines. The GCI delegates have further opportunity to network with other delegates from all over the state. Many GCI delegates establish lasting friendships formed during this four-day experience.

ALL OF OUR BAKED GOODS HANDMADE DAILY!

ORDER ONLINE ON

AREPAS CACHAPAS EMPANADAS

292 Kearny Ave. • 201.428.1904 www.domingosbakery.com

Continued from Page 3 Kearny High School. He has also coached youth sports for over 30 years. Kearny Thistle United FC has prided itself on child development for 50 years. Now they offer and encourage the ability to participate and develop in more than just one sport. The ability to schedule both baseball and soccer has proven to not only be logical, but successful. “The program cannot thank the people that have made this possible enough and have supported the idea,” Alvarez said. “We are very grateful to Mayor Alberto Santos and especially Recreation Director Ralph Cattafi who without his support, the program would not have local fields to play on. With their support, hopefully the program can continue to grow as we currently have two 11U teams and the demand for 10U & 12U is an immediate goal as there are players currently wishing to be able to play both sports.” Meanwhile, Kearny Thistle Baseball will be hosting a clinic & tryouts for the upcoming fall season from Aug. 15 to Aug. 19. Information and registration may be found at www.bit.ly/ktb11uclinic or, by contacting Alvarez at (201) 424-9784 or walvarez@kearnythistleunited.com.

which took place from June 6 to June 9 — delegates experienced a sample of college life by living in a dorm, eating in a cafeteria and attending lectures and workshops. The young women learned about career choices from women working in a variety

We Specialize in Repast

11-35 River Road | North Arlington, NJ | 201.246.0100 CentanniNJ.com | Centanni Ristorante | centanniristorante

Welcome Back to Centanni’s! All Reservations & Walk-Ins Welcome

BUY 1, GET 1

Eggplant or Chicken Parmigiana

Lasagna

Chicken Marsala

Chicken Caccatore

FREE! over same Pasta

FREE!

over same Pasta

FREE! over Pasta

Sun. thru Thurs. 1 per customer. Cannot be combined. Must be dinner size entree. Any subsitutions will be extra charge. Not valid on holidays. Expires 08/15/22

PHOTOCOPIES OF COUPONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. COUPONS FOR TAKE OUT ONLY.

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Sports & Recreation

Mackenzie Albert shines in 4 years at Nutley HS, is The Observer’s 2022 Athlete of the Year

Observer 2021-2022 Female Athlete of the Year Mackenzie Albert f of Nutley (second left) receives the award from Observer publisher Lisa Feorenzo. From left are Nutley head girls’ soccer coach Mike DiPiano, Albert, Feorenzo and Bob Albert, Mackenzie’s father.

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

If you heard the sound of a foot striking a soccer ball in Owens or Glotzbach Park in Nutley, there’s a good chance you would see Mackenzie Albert. Whether it was day or night, alone or with company, the fields were a place for Albert to not only work on her game, but a way to relieve the stress your typical teenager deals with on a regular basis. “Sports help me zone out from other distractions or anything that is stressful around me,” Albert said.” Once I get on a field or a court, it takes everything away. Most of the time, I would be by myself, but sometimes my dad would come or a couple of my friends. I would be out there for an hour or two. Usually until when the lights went out.”

Based on her stellar fouryear career at Nutley High School, shutting out the lights might have been the most effective and practical way to stop the talented striker. Albert’s sensational play on the soccer field places her among the best players to play for the Maroon Raiders in recent memory and has her heading to Iona to continue her career. In addition, Allen was a three-year starter in basketball and was one of the stars on Nutley inaugural flag football team this spring. This overall package of performance, talent and work ethic makes Albert The Observer’s Female Athlete of the Year for the 2021-22 season. She becomes the fourth girl from Nutley to earn the honor and first since Carly Anderson in 2015. “When she was on the field, she gave us everything that

she had,” girls soccer coach Mike DiPiano said. “There are people that have a lot of skill and give you everything that they have. And there are people that are special players and give you everything that they have. When she was on the field she gave us everything that she had and she was a special player.” Thanks to his soccer camps, DiPiano knew about Albert before she came to Nutley High School as a freshman. “We knew we had a special player coming up,” DiPiano said. “When you’re a good club player you don’t know when you’re a freshman player, when you’re playing against high school girls that are 17, 18-year-old girls if you can do it. She scored in the first game that she played and she just went from there.” See ATHLETE, Page 10

Nutley in search of new baseball coach as Harbison steps down after 18 years By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

After more than two decades of coaching multiple sports at Nutley High School, Bob Harbison decided it was time to take a step back. Harbison, a 1984 Nutley graduate, recently announced he stepped down as the Maroon Raiders’ head baseball coach, a position he’s held since 2004. Harbison, who also stepped down as an assistant football coach, will remain the school’s head boys’ basketball coach. “I do think coaching multiple sports starts to take away from the one you’re supposed to be doing,” Harbison said. “Sometimes you get a little worn down and the (transition) from basketball season to baseball, that was tough. There is no wind down. These kids were getting more excited about the season than I was and that’s not a good thing.” This spring, Nutley went 14-11 and made it to the Greater Newark Tournament semifinals as well as the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 quarterfinals. It marked the 15th season out of 18 Harbison’s baseball team finished .500 or above, the majority of them coming in a Super Essex Conference American Division that is one of the most competitive divisions in the state. “It was just fun winning big games,” said Harbison. “And you always had the ability with this group of kids to win big games and beat good baseball teams. Harbison’s first year at the helm proved to be his team’s most accom-

plished as Nutley went 27-5, captured its third Greater Newark Tournament title in four seasons, and also won the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 1, Group 3 tournament. Over the course of his tenure, Harbison’s teams made the GNT final five more times (2005, 2009, 2012, 2016 and 2018), but came up short each time. Nutley also made the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 final in 2019, losing a nine-inning heartbreaker to West Morris, 2-1. Despite going 288-195 for a .596 winning percentage at Nutley, the recent setbacks in tournament play left Harbison wondering if it was time for someone else to help the perennial contender take that next step. “I couldn’t seem to get them to the next level. We were always good, we were never bad. I’ve had some teams that were better than others, I guess. I’m thinking that maybe someone else can get them to that (higher) level. “We had the ability. I thought we did. I just wasn’t sure if it was me or something else, but we just couldn’t get to that next step on a consistent basis. We could beat Seton Hall Prep on a given day or Millburn. I don’t think we were ever not in the top five in Essex County since 2000. We were always there in the mix.” As a player, Harbison was a standout in football, baseball and basketball in high school and later played baseball at Fairleigh Dickinson University. At FDU, See NUTLEY, Page 11

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

ley’s great scorers, she’s in the conversation with Zoe (Steck) and Vic(toria Kealy),” DiPiano Continued from Page 9 said. “The totals don’t matter as much as the fact that’s she in Albert hit the ground runthat conversation. ning, notching a goal and an “She had a great first touch. assist in her first varsity game against Westwood, then doing There’s a lot of scorers that just run on to the end of the ball it again five days later against or clean up a mess. She could Ridgefield Park. “I just played my game. I just score from anywhere. She had played how I usually play,” said the ability to have the ball at her feet, beat the defender, and Albert. “With a new team, all then score. She was dangerous of the teammates helped me out along the way. I made sure from the left, right, center, from distance, in the air. Scorto help them out as well.” She went on to score 15 goals ers are special players and she was a special player for us.” as a freshman, 14 as a sophoThe speed and agility that more and 21 with six assists made Albert one of Essex her junior season. Last fall, Albert added 19 goals and nine County’s top soccer talents, assists before her senior season also allowed her to be a fine basketball player in her own was cut short when Nutely had to withdraw from the state right. “In the youth leagues (in tournament due to COVID. With 69 goals and 25 assists, town) if you mention the name Mackenzie Albert it’s all about Albert finished her storied soccer. Most people don’t even career as one of the top three know she plays basketball until or four scorers in program they go to a game,” girls bashistory. ketball coach Larry Mitschow “When you talk about Nut-

ATHLETE

said.” She’s so naturally gifted with speed and footwork, there’s no doubt in mind that if basketball was her main sport FEMALE ATHLETES OF THE YEAR she would have been able to play college basketball.” 2004-2005 Janine Davis, Queen of Peace While offense was Albert’s 2005-2006 Kelly Rauco, Nutley specialty in soccer, in basket2006-2007 Courtney Keegan, Queen of Peace ball it was her defense that 2007-2008 Allyson Dyl, Kearny allowed her to stand out. Mit2008-2009 Cassie Indri, Lyndhurst schow usually matched Albert up with the opposing team’s 2009-2010 Tara Fisher, North Arlington best player, which in the Super 2010-2011 Janitza Aquino, Kearny Essex Conference’s American 2011-2012 Stefanie Gomes, Kearny Division, meant that she was 2012-2013 Camila Alonso, Lyndhurst assigned to guard a Division 2013-2014 Grace Montgomery, Nutley I talent on a nightly basis in and Nicole Kelly, Kearny league play. For her career, Albert scored 2014-2015 Carly Anderson, Nutley 446 points, highlighted by a 2015-2016 Amber Crispin, Kearny 30-point outburst against Lodi 2016-2017 Lily Durning, Kearny her sophomore season. As a 2017-2018 Meagan McClelland, Kearny senior, she averaged 6.7 points, 2018-2019 Giulia Pezzolla, Lyndhurst 3.7 rebounds and 2.4 assists per 2019-2020 Samantha Osorio, Kearny game while also leading Nutley in steals (44) and blocks (22). 2020-2021 Carley Martin, Lyndhurst “She’s an athlete and 2021-2022 Mackenzie Albert, Nutley physically and mentally she’s there. When that opening tip her for so many games over That mindset led Albert to happens, she’s ready to go,” the years. She’s 100-percent try flag football this spring as said Mitschow. “We relied on focused, she’s a great teamwell when Nutley added the mate, she doesn’t get rattled. sport. Albert, who admitted We play in the top tier of Essex she knew nothing about the County. We play the best of the sport before the spring, started best and she’s right in the heat the season as a running back of it.” before moving to quarterback.

HEALTH&WELLNESS & &WELLNESS

DIRECTORY

201-998-9700 • 37 Seeley Ave., Kearny

CARDIOLOGY & INTERNAL MEDICINE

Call to make an appointment! (973) 777-3286

1135 Clifton Ave, Suite 206, Clifton, NJ 07013

645 MAIN ST. HACKENSACK, NJ T: 201.347.5001

2 W NORTHFIELD RD. LIVINGSTON, NJ T: 973.758.8922

OUR SERVICES: • General Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry • Implants • Dentures • Oral Surgery

• Invisalign • Pediatric Dentistry • Periodontics • Preventative/ Hygiene

WWW.GENUINESMILESPA.COM

To advertise, please call our office at:

201.991.1600

Y EARS !

CARE

HOW ALBINISM AFFECTS THE EYES

www.johnbranwellpodiatrist.com

837 KEARNY AVE. KEARNY, NJ T: 201.991.1055

DeLuca Vision Consultants Presented by Joseph A. DeLuca, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Podiatric Medicine • Surgery • Diabetic Shoes • Orthotics MEDICARE • BCBS • AETNA • Most Insurances

Mina A. Elfar, D.M.D.

C ELEBRATING

EYE

John P. Branwell, DPM., C.Ped

General, Cosmetic, & Family Dentistry

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

Albinism refers to a group of disorders in which a person lacks melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin and eyes. Melanin also affects the development of the optic nerves, causing people with all types of albinism to experience vision problems. These problems include extreme nearsightedness or farsightedness, blurred vision caused by astigmatism, sensitivity to light, rapid uncontrolled eye movements, misaligned eyes, poor depth perception, and legal blindness. There is no cure for albinism, but corrective lenses can solve many of the vision issues. Some patients may need to use a monocular for distance vision or a magnifier for reading. Sunglasses and

sun hats are critical for keeping direct sunlight out of the eyes. Although surgery is rarely part of treatment for eye problems related to albinism, your ophthalmologist may recommend surgery on optical muscles to minimize nystagmus. Surgery to correct strabismus may make the condition less noticeable. To schedule an eye exam, please call 201-8960096. We are located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To get in touch with our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance. P.S. People with albinism may have oculocutaneous albinism, which affects both the skin and eyes, or ocular albinism, which affects only the eyes.

www.delucavision.com

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

NUTLEY

Continued from Page 9 Harbison was reunited with his former high school coach, Dennis Sasso, and was teammates with future

The Observer | www.theobserver.com rival coaches Brian Chapman (Millburn) and Dennis McCaffery (Cranford). Harbison’s first head coaching job at Nutley was as the boys basketball coach, a position he’s held since the 1999-2000 season. Last sea-

Matos scores gold metal in Taiwan

son, Harbison’s team enjoyed its most successful season in more than a decade, winning 15 games and qualifying for the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 tournament before losing to eventual sectional champion

Colonia. Harbison, who remains a math teacher at Nutley High School, will also be able to spend this fall watching his son Matthew, a two-year starter at quarterback for the Raiders, begin his college

football career at TCNJ. The younger Harbison, who passed for 11 touchdowns and ran for 12 scores with his dad as an assistant coach, also played basketball for his father his sophomore and junior seasons.

NOTARY SERVICES MADE EASY AT THE OBSERVER’S KEARNY OFFICE

NOTARY PUBLIC Lisa M. Feorenzo

SERVICES OFFERED INCLUDE NOTARIZATION OF: n Real Estate Transactions n Mortgage Refinancing n Will Preparation n Powers of Attorney n Representation Agreements Call or email for appointment n Affidavits & Declarations (201) 991-1600 n Notarizations & Authentications lisa@theobserver.com Tues-Friday, 10a-2p/other hours by request if possible. Appointment required.

VISIT WWW.THEOBSERVER.COM TO MAKE APPOINTMENT ONLINE

www.TheObserver.com

home runs for Team USA, going 4-for-8 with five RBI, four runs scored and a stolen Cristian Matos returns to base. He also picked up a win Belleville with a gold medal in relief for Team USA, which around his neck. overwhelmed its opposition Playing for Team USA, the by a 87-24 margin during the 12U National Team went to tournament. Taiwan to take home the World We’ll have more on Matos’ Baseball Softball Confederation championship winning perforU-12 Baseball World Cup. mance in next week’s issue of During the seven-game The Observer. event, Matos slugged three By Jason Bernstein

jason@theobserver.com

Do you have...

something to Sell?

a Job to ﬁll? Home to Rent?

PREPARE FOR BACK-TO-SCHOOL! PFIZER VACCINE WALK-INS FLU SHOT WALK-INS COVID TESTING PCR/RAPID EPIPENS BACKPACKS MAKEUP

• Prescriptions filled within 10 minutes • Wide Variety of Gifts • Medical & Orthopedic Supplies • Personal Care

FREE

LOCAL DELIVERY TO BELLEVILLE & NEARBY AREAS (Newark, Bloomﬁeld, N. Arlington, Nutley & Clifton)

We are here to help. Our Classiﬁeds section is now available for a small fee online on Mondays at 8PM.

For more info, call 201-991-1600

WE ACCEPT ALL INSURANCE PLANS AND CREDIT CARDS

338 WASHINGTON AVE. • BELLEVILLE T: (973)759-1956 • F: (973)759-2027

12 Belleville Legion members meet national commander The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Members of the Belleville Sons of the American Legion met National Commander Paul E. Dillard at Woodbridge Post 87 on his official visit to New Jersey in early August. The national commander, who overseas an organization with over 1.8 million veterans and 370,000 members of the SAL, travels around the country each year visiting each state. Focusing on advocating on behalf of the legislative issues facing the country which affect veterans, as commander of the largest veteran’s organization in the country, the American Legion National Commander has both a presence in national politics and in the direction of the individual posts and squadrons throughout the country. The Legion has been instrumental in the passing of bills such as the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, commonly known as the “G.I. Bill,” as well as support for

Contributed photo

From left, Rusty Myers, of Belleville; Paul Dillard, the legion’s national commander and Steve Sangemino, of Belleville. Myers and Sangemino are both on the New Jersey Legion’s executive committee and met the commander earlier this month in Woodbridge.

benefits such as pensions and the Veterans Health Administration. Paul Dillard, national commander for 2021-2022, steps down at the National Convention in late August in Milwaukee. From Texas, the commander while in Jersey hosted a meet and

Premier Care Dr. Prakash J. Doshi

TALKS

greet on his second day at the home post of New Jersey Department Commander Dan Dunn. In front of a group of 75 representatives from the American Legion across the state, the National Commander spoke about topics that have been

at the forefront of the organization’s attention since his election, including veterans’ suicide and the pending passage of the PACT Act in Congress, which moved to President Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s desk a few days later. The act expands VA health

care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances, and provides generations of veterans —and their survivors — with the care and benefits. SAL Detachment (state) Commander Mark Natale invited members of the Sons to the event as well. Belleville 105’s own Steve Sangemino and Rusty Myers attended, shaking hands and chatting with the National Commander about Belleville and the SAL. Sangemino serves as a Detachment vice commander and Myers serves as DEC, or representative, of Essex County, as well as state Children and Youth Chairman. Both are also members of Belleville Squadron 105 Both were also given the opportunity to take a photo with the National Commander, and were presented by Dillard with his National Commander’s Pin, a very prestigious badge.

The Observer’s correction policy

Dr. Hector Aguilar

CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME The anatomy of the human wrist, existing health issues, and even repetitive hand movements, such as typing, can exert pressure on the median nerve, causing carpal tunnel syndrome. The carpal tunnel is a narrow tube among the bones and ligaments in the palm of the hand that protect the median nerve. Compression of this nerve causes numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, arm, and fingers, all symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Visiting a physician when symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome begin to interfere with daily activities can prevent permanent muscle and nerve damage that may require surgery. Timely diagnosis and treatment provides relief of the tingling and numbness and restores

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

hand and wrist function to normal. You can reduce your risk of carpal tunnel preventing repetitive strain and learning to keep your wrists in a neutral position. However, you may be more prone to the condition due to underlying health conditions such as obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes. To schedule an appointment with our office, please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-998-7474. We are located at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B. P. S. Now regarded as a common malady, it took nearly a century from initial observations until carpal tunnel syndrome was finally accepted as a median nerve compression at the wrist.

he Observer strives to bring our readers the best and the most accurate news. However, from time to time, there may be mistakes in what we report. As such, we take our obligation to report errors seriously. If you believe we’ve made an error, please send an e-mail to editorial@theobserver. com, indicating what is to be corrected. We will ensure a correction is noted (if necessary) in a future print edition — and online.

Most Insurances Accepted

“Make your vision picture perfect... See what you’ve been missing. Visit our ofﬁce!”

Family Eye Care Eye Exams • Contact Lenses • Pediatric Care Your Eye Care Professionals Dr. Maria Domingues Lic # 27OA00630100

Dr. Jayswinder Kaur Lic# 27OA00689700

Email any questions or comments to: premiercare@gmail.com

Dr. Marina N. Megalla

Premier Care Associates of West Hudson

Dr. Carla Domingues

is available on a walk-in or appointment basis for your primary healthcare needs.

Lic# 27OA00690300

Lic # 27OA00646200

348 Ridge Road • Lyndhurst La doctora habla Español

201.438.8668

A doutora fala Português

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

Doris Mae Gruska Doris Mae Gruska (nee Heinz), 99, of Kearny died Aug. 5, 2022. Born in Bloomfield, Doris was a lifelong Kearny resident. She was a talented seamstress, having worked as one for a time; she lovingly handmade all of her daughters’ wedding gowns. Doris ran a babysitting service from her home in her younger years, and cared for and loved many children. Doris held animals, especially dogs, near

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Obituaries to her heart. Doris was the beloved wife of the late Stephen Gruska; loving mother of Darlene Shaw (Roy), Roxanne Catrambone (Tommy), Karolyn Russo (Hank), Adrienne Heslen (Tommy) and Beth Ann Roman (Tony); devoted grandmother of Thomas, Laura, Joanna, Jeanette, Kara, Anthony, Stephanie, Jimmy, Shayla and Frankie; and adoring great-grandmother of 11. She was predeceased by her brother Fred and by her cousin Jackie, and is also survived by her cousin Harold Elsworth and by many loving nieces and nephews. The Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny, was in

charge. Catherine Pirrello Catherine Pirrello, 91, of Edgewater, Florida, died Monday, Aug. 1, 2022 at AdventHealth New Smyrna. Born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, to Alexander and Mary Krakowski Sobleski, Catherine came to Florida in 2015 from Kearny, New Jersey. A retired public school teacher, in her 40s, Catherine went to Montclair State and

earned a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in the teaching of the deaf. She was also instrumental for major changes benefitting the deaf in New Jersey, especially deaf children and the way they are taught in school. Catherine was a member of St. Cecilia Catholic Church, Kearny; volunteered with the Grace House Pregnancy Center, enjoyed bowling and crocheting. She was really good about and loved to exercise and participated in the Senior Olympics. Catherine won many medals for race walking. She loved spending time with family and friends and was a devoted mother, grandmother

All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission. and great-grandmother who will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. Survivors include her daughter, Catherine (Robert) Burnett, of Edgewater, Florida; son, John Molitoris, of Hourston; step-daughter, Kathleen (John) Wandras, of Bayville; two grandsons, John Wandras and Robert Pirrello; two granddaughters, Nicole Horn and Lisa Nicol; nine great-grandchildren; and three sisters, Maryann Christy, Matilda Gardner and Adrian Gallagher. Catherine was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Jake, and sister, Margaret. There will be no service.

5 facts about heat-related illnesses As heat waves become increasingly common during the summer, the risk of developing a heat-related illness becomes more likely. Here are five things you should know about conditions such as heatstroke and heat exhaustion. They can present in numerous ways. Symptoms of heat-related illnesses include dizziness, fainting, headache, fatigue, flushed or clammy skin, muscle cramps, confusion, heat rash and an elevated body temperature. Older adults are at a higher risk. A loss of mobility can make it difficult for seniors to stay hydrated. Plus, the sensation of thirst decreases with age. Older adults who live alone are particularly vulnerable. Some medications reduce heat tolerance. These include medications for high blood pressure, Parkinson’s disease, allergies and certain heart conditions. Always ask your pharmacist about the side effects of your medications. Extreme heat can aggravate chronic conditions. Conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, lung disease and diabetes decrease your body’s ability to adapt to changes in temperature. There are ways to reduce

the risks. During a heat wave, be sure to drink plenty of water, perform physical activities in air-conditioned places, reduce caffeine and alcohol intake, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and frequently rest. In addition to learning the risks and signs of heat-related illnesses, be sure to check your local news for extreme heat warnings and safety tips. By staying informed, you’ll be able to safely enjoy the summer weather.

Novena to St. Jude

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. A.

Mulligan Funeral Home 331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison

Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish

Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221

Frank X. Mulligan, Jr. Inactive Private Parking at 10 Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. North

973-481-4333 visit us at: www.mulliganfh.com

Shaw-Buyus Home for Services

Mario Teixeria, IV, Manager, NJ Lic. #3757

Mario Teixeira, Jr. Director, NJ Lic. #2542 • Monique Teixeira, Director, NJ Lic. #4048 Newly renovated family owned and operated funeral home with multiple locations. Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. Handicapped Accessible.

138 DAVIS AVE. • KEARNY, NJ 07032

(201) 991-2265 www.buyusfuneralhome.com

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

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

Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home

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

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

IN THE SCHOOLS Honor students announced at Kearny’s Franklin School Yvonne Cali, Principal of Kearny's Franklin School, announces the school’s fourth marking period honor roll and Presidential Award winners: Presidential Awards: Barbara Calienes, Anthony Chuquirima Miranda, Rachel Kelly, Afiha Maliha, Keyla Petrillo Grade 6 Principal’s Honors: Jessica Arenas, Gabriella Arrazola, Giselle Arrazola, Barbara Calienes, Anthony Chuquirima Miranda, Kather-

Think you can’t refinance because values are down?

ine Chuquirima Miranda, Tiernan Devlin, Gennesis Juarez, Rachel Kelly, Afiha Maliha, Katerin Marquez, Keyla Petrillo Grade 6 Honors: Jennifer Chevasco Garcia, Yakira Llerena Cornejo, Samuel Manaois, Maria Pinheiro Borges, Alexander Reis, Raphael Requena Da Silva, Juannis Rios, Angela Rios-Matos, Jeremy Rivera, Robert Sabados, Angel St. Jean, Saisha Vivar Grade 5 Principal’s Honors: Camila Cabrera Adames, Justin Canales, Michael Clark, Alexis Cohetero-Gar-

NORTH ARLINGTON • NJ 07031

RATES AT HISTORIC LOWS!

THINK AGAIN!

FREE

Analysis for Purchase & Refinance!

ROB PEZZOLLA • NMLS# 266181 • ROB@KEYPOINTMORTGAGE.COM

TEL: 201.998.9050 • FAX: 201.820.0505

D E T IS

L T S JU

cia, Allison Cohetero Martinez, Christopher Fernandez, Samuel Garcia Ojedo, Ester Glanzman Cerqueira, Pedro Grinan, Joshua Konopka, Chloe Lin, Noushin Mahmud, Sidney O’Blenis, Harshika Pasunuri, Jessenia Reyes, Liza Savytska, Paul Torres, Joe Yang Grade 5 Honors: Rodrigo Amarante, Isabella Barrantes, Ryan Candelaria, Jazleen Cedeno, Kate Cordova Velez, Angelina Cruz, Lisssander Di Lorenzo Nunez, Belen Diaz Aleman, Kal-El Espinoza, Joselyn Espinoza Morquecho, Hamza Etaoukil, Thomas Faican, Matheus Felicci Da Silva, Melissa Fernandez, Isabella Fernandez Aviles, Gia Fucilli, Cristian Garcia, Maria Emilia Guiterrez Merizalde, Aditi Jani, John Kalicki, Katherine Marrero, Kamil Marte Pineda, Noemie Martinez, Josue Martinez Cerrato, Isaac Ocasio, Jezabel Ordonez Diaz, Alianny Quezada Jimenez, Pietro Rodrigues DeOliveira, Katrina Rodriguez, Damian Ruiz, Steven Speranza III, Jean Ta-

Intersection upgrades completed in Belleville By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

Timing is Everything.

sigchana, Anderson Troya Escobar, Maria Zapata Calle Grade 4 Principal’s Honors: Daniel Cooke, Camila Dominguez, Scarlet Jaramillo, Omayra Juarez, Lucas Paz, Isabelly Ribeiro De Paula, Kevin Reis, Shannon Ryan, Jeremay Santos DeFreitas Grade 4 Honors: Isabelle Almonte, Isabella Araujo, Agustina Asborno Rivero, Brianna Berrones Melo, Rayyan Bourquia, Allen Campoverde, Isabella Castillo, Mason DaCosta Rowling, Jada DeJesus, Megan Delgado Ortiz, Kailah Fernandez, Camila Geronimo De Los Santos, Nathan Gonzalez, Gabriela Goya Garcia, Mason How Chung, Camille Kopp, Julia Mata, Maliah Mataro, Joseph Montoro, Mason Nieves, Lismel Nunez Diaz, Amayiah Oliva, Samir Pardo, Luca Patino, Maria Peixoto Valada, Jillian Platero, Nicholas Platero, Daniel Ribeiro, Arjun Sharma, Camilla Silva, Benjamin Silva Martinez, Emily Tom, Mia Torres, Aileen Valerio, Alyanni Vega, Wilson Vega.

New traffic signal equipment was installed at two intersections along Franklin Avenue in Belleville recently. The improvements are part of a $6 million project to upgrade nine intersections throughout Essex County. The intersection upgrades are part of the county’s initiative to modernize infrastructure to enhance pedestrian and motor vehicle safety and to meet the changing needs of the community. The two intersections in Belleville are Franklin Avenue & Joralemon Street and Franklin Avenue & Mill Street/Park Drive. “Traveling along county roads and through these intersections are part of our daily lives. We use county roads to go to work, school and shopping. This project is part of our ongoing initiative to modernize our infrastructure to ensure it meets current traffic demands,” Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. said. “The improvements will enhance safety for pedestrians and motorists at these

heavily trafficked intersections.” “It’s always great to have Essex County in Belleville. Under Joe’s leadership, many improvements have been made to Belleville Park and Hendricks Field Golf Course, the First Tee program was introduced and now we are seeing upgrades at a critical intersection in town,” Belleville Mayor Michael Melham said during the stop at the intersection of Franklin Avenue and Joralemon Street in Belleville. He was joined by Deputy Mayor Naomy DePena. The equipment includes LED traffic signals, modern poles, high visibility crosswalks and roadway striping and pedestrian countdown timers that can be activated by pushing the crossing button. LED lights are brighter, easier to see, more energy efficient and last longer than traditional bulbs. Sidewalks and curbs around the intersections were replaced and the intersections were repaved. The signals also are outfitted with GPS clocks to ensure they remain coordinated with other traffic signals along Park Avenue.

BELLEVILLE UPDATE

NJMLS

Comprehensive / Real-Time / Accurate

.com

Better Home Searches.

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

GRANELLI

Continued from Page 1 Kearny for being a member of the Board of Education for many years, but he also coached youth sports and then, when his daughter Abbey grew older, he was involved in every sport she played. He was also active in the Scots American Club of Kearny. “Bryan lit up every room he entered. He was a character. He had a great sense of humor and was an expert with inappropriate sarcasm,” his obituary reads. “No one was spared, especially the ones he loved the most. He was always one to have a good time and celebrate every occasion. There are many of us who today who could proudly share stories of Bryan that will make you laugh out loud.” Outpouring of love from town that loved him & he loved Though Granelli died Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2022, his untimely death wasn’t announced, publicly, until four days later — Saturday, Aug. 6, 2022. Once word began to spread — especially on social media — it was clear that lost was someone who could only be described as a gem. The comments almost universally spoke of a man who loved his family, who loved his community and who loved to the an example of what the Jesuits taught him in high school and college — to be a Man for Others.

The Observer | www.theobserver.com Perhaps the most poignant remarks came from his brother, Dennis. “It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of our beloved brother, Bryan Joseph Granelli,” Dennis writes. “Bryan was so deeply loved, and we will miss his laughter, his generous spirit and his smile immensely. He was a pillar of the Kearny community and was deeply committed to his loving family. He was a fiercely loyal friend and his brotherhood extended well beyond the Granelli clan.” He continued. “Our tears and our grief are obviously plentiful, but we would be remiss in not recognizing and treasuring the hundreds of friendships that Bryan forged during his short lifetime. All of your words, prayers and messages bring us all inordinate peace and solace.” He then concluded with a quote from Astrid Alauda, which read, “There’s no other love like the love for a brother. There’s no other love like the love from a brother.” Dennis, of course, was hardly alone in offering remembrances. Drew Dunleavy was his long-time friend and he took to Facebook to praise Granelli. “Where do I begin. I can’t believe you are gone Bryan Granelli,” Dunleavy writes. “You always had a kind heart and made us laugh hysterically — the core of our tight-knit friends. Friends, but more like family for over 35+ years, we spent nearly every day and weekend together growing

up, worked multiple jobs together, lived in multiple apartments together, shore houses, parties, clubs, prank calls, sports, endless rides on the way home singing our favorite songs … golf outings, Scots Club Halloween parties, etc. Man I miss you brother (more) than words can possibly say. Life gets in the way and even though the last several years we spoke less, I was glad to have been in New Jersey this past January to enjoy time together once again laughing at all the shenanigans we were a part of. Until we meet again, watch over all of us ‘Bry guy’ and rest in peace my dear friend. You will be missed more than you can ever know.” Samantha Olenik Paris is the President of the Kearny Board of Education — and a long time friend of Granelli’s “We started out as Abbey’s dad and Hailey’s mom 10 years ago ... I’m so happy that we became much more than that over the years,” Paris writes. “You always watched over all the kids as if they were your own and I’m so grateful for that because I always knew they were safe with you. I will miss our conversations and your inappropriate jokes ... our board meetings will never be the same. I know you will be watching over Jacki, Jess and Abs from above. Hailey and I will help them down here. You will forever be our peeps! Rest easy, my friend. Granelli was predeceased by his mother Elizabeth, mother-in-law, Lorraine, and father-in law, Kevin. He is survived by his wife and daughters, son-in-law,

grandchildren, father, brothers, sister, brothers and sisters-in law, nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles and countless friends. A Mass Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 9,

at St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Epilepsy Foundation at www.give.epilepsy.com/ page/33651/donate/1. A foundation in Bryan’s name will be also established to carry on his memory.

IDEAS WORTH

PRINTING Expect different with our business.

MARKETING PRODUCTS LARGE FORMAT PRODUCTS PAPER BOARD BOXES LABELS & STICKERS PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS Business Cards • Postcards Tear Cards • Trading Cards Flyers • Brochures • Window Clings Mounted Canvas • Posters• AND MORE!

POLITICAL PRODUCTS CONSULTING & MATERIALS Create multiple promotional materials that will appeal to every kind of voter! Signs • Stickers • Buttons Door Hangers •Bumper Stickers Banners • AND MORE!

BANNERS Design custom vinyl banners and make your event booth or storefront stand out! Both indoor and outdoor! • Vinyl Banners •Double-Sided Banners •Retractable Banners AND MORE!

We also offer custom designs for other publications. CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE! St. Peter’s Prep Yearbook 1985 — The Petrean

Granelli played soccer in his four years as a high school student at St. Peter’s Prep, Jersey City. He is seen here in his senior yearbook soccer photo in 1985, kneeling, third from the left.

E-MAIL LISA@THEOBSERVER.COM OR CALL US AT 201.991.1600

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, August 10, 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

SERVICES OFFERED

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Operator Trainee (2) – Kearny Municipal Utilities GI Practice with multiple offices in Essex Authority (KMUA), Hudson County and Hudson County seeks full-time candidates KMUA is seeking to hire (2) Full-Time Entry Level to join our medical practice in Belleville and Jersey Operator Trainees for Collection & Storm Sewer City. Seeking a responsible, bilingual (Spanish) Systems. Tasks include but are not limited to who is reliable, detail oriented and can multi-task. Jetvac & Street Sweeper Operation, Snow PlowExcellent phone manners and good people skills ing, Emergency Callouts, Cleaning, Landscaping, to deal with patients. General Manual Labor, Heavy Lifting, Maintenance, Previous medical experience and computer skills Catch Basin/Manhole Repairs, and Inspections. required and must be Covid vaccinated. ResponsiIndividuals hired for this position will be enrolled in bilities include, medical assistance, the NJWA Apprenticeship Program which will assist scheduling, data entry and insurance verification with additional education and training for Collecand billing. 401k, Health Insurance and vacation tion System Operator Licensing. Minimum Repay. Salary commensurable to professional quirements: 18 Years of Age, High School Diploma, experience and/or education and abilities in Valid NJ State Driver’s License, Valid NJ CDL Class B healthcare. Pay: $16 - $17 per hour w/Tanker or Ability to Obtain. All applicants must Please email resume to: pass a Physical, Drug Screening, and Background bguerrero@essex-gastro.com Check. EOE. Applications can be found at https:// or fax to: 973-759-7243 www.kearnynj.org/kmua-links-notices/. Please 14W03 email completed applications/resumes to JoVonn Quinones, Executive Director jquinones@kmua.org. Deadline August 19th, 2022 12W03

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS Stable and SAFE Pathways to Independence, Inc., A day program work environment supporting adults with intellectual & developmental disabilities and a chance M-F 8:30AM - 4:30PM to grow with a solid Career opportunities for: Employment Specialist/Job Coach F/T ($17.50/ company hr.) Evaluate/Support adults referred by DVR in •SKILLED locating community employment. Associate degree required. CLIMBER & One to One Direct Support Professional FT EXPERIENCED ($16.00/hr) working within our adult training program, providing individualized supports to one GROUND PERSON adult with disabilities. •DRIVER Direct Support Professionals FT & PT ($14.82-15.25/hr.) Providing supports to adults West Milford/ North with disabilities with our Adult Training Program. Jersey area Van Drivers PT $14.75/hr. - Van Aides PT $14.25/hr. Experience & (split shift for drivers/aides 6:45AM-9AM and Transportation return again 2:45PM-5PM) OPPORTUNITIES FOR CAREER GROWTH and a valid driver’s Excellent time off benefits (FT & PT) / license a must and excellent medical benefits for FT Must have HS Dip/GED all positions must have a Call clean driving record (license not required for Van 973-728-0842 Aides) 60 Kingsland Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032 or email resume to: pti450@aol.com (or visit us 9:30AM – 3PM M-F to apply) A great place to work & make a difference in the lives of adults with disabilities. eeo

10W12

13W03

Full Time Billing/Insurance related issues for Ophthalmologist office. Medical coding experience a plus. Please Fax resume to Natalie Tavares 201-896-0062 or call 201-896-0096 14W03

Wanted Driver/ Warehouse, mature individual for Foodservice CO. must posses good driving record. Salary plus Bonus. Bi-lingual a plus. Call 973-754-9775 or farmfreshdistributioncorp@gmail.com 14W03

Person needed to make inspections on buildings in Newark and Elizabeth. Must know how detect repairs, and report it in writing and by pictures. 15 hours per week-flexible hours. $20.00 per hour plus gas. Call Patrician Associates at (973)284-0904

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, 14W03 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 Dishwasher wanted experience. Two years’ experience working in social service organization. Proficiency in Microsoft word, Part time Friday and Saturday nights in busy power point and excel. M-F 8:30A- 4:30P. Email resume to pti450@aol.com or complete Lyndhurst restaurant application at Pathways to Independence, Inc. Call 60 Kingsland Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032 (201)935-0004 (EOE) 13W03

12W03

Home Female Health Aid with 27 years experience working in hospitals, nursing homes and rehabs. I am looking for a private duty. I have transportation and very strong references. Call (201)563-4358 13W03

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

We are not a legal paper

DISH Wireless LLC is proposing to install new wireless telecommunications antennas on an existing building located at 242 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, Hudson County, NJ. The new facility will consist of collocating antennas at a top height of approx. 46ft. 5in. on the 39-ft. 5in. building, measured to the parapet. 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 6122006936- KMG EBI Consulting, 6876 Susquehanna Trail South, York, PA 17403, or at (781)265-9221 14W01

Take notice that applications for a Waterfront Development Individual Permit, a Flood Hazard Control Act Permit, and a Water Quality Certification will be submitted to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Division of Land Use Regulation (DLUR) for the development described as follows: PROJECT NAME: Remediation of a Portion of Occidental Chemical Corporation (OCC) Chromite Ore Processing Residue (COPR) Site 49 in Kearny, New Jersey PROJECT APPLICANT: Glenn Springs Holdings, Inc., on behalf of its affiliate Occidental Chemical Corporation (OCC) The proposed Project consists of remedial activities on a portion of Chromite Ore Processing Residue (COPR) Site 49 in Kearny, New Jersey. The work will be implemented by Glenn Springs Holdings, Inc., on behalf of their affiliate, OCC, in accordance with a Remedial Action Workplan approved by NJDEP pursuant to a Consent Judgement between NJDEP and OCC; PPG Industries, Inc.; and Honeywell International Inc., dated September 2011. The proposed Project includes excavating and removing COPR-impacted fill from Site 49, constructing a cap over the remaining COPR-impacted soil to limit human and environmental exposure, and implementing institutional controls (a deed notice) on the site. BLOCK: 298 LOTS: 14, 14.01, 15, 15.01 and 15.02 MUNICIPALITY: Kearny COUNTY: Hudson The complete permit application package can be reviewed at the Kearny Town Clerk’s Office or by appointment at NJDEP’s Trenton Office. NJDEP welcomes comments and any information that you may provide concerning the proposed development and site. Please submit your written comments within 15 calendar days of the date of this notice to the following address: New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Division of Land Use Regulation Mail Code 501-02A PO Box 420 Trenton, New Jersey 08625 Attn: Kearny Supervisor 14W01

• local readership • local buyers • Access to thousands of people who support our advertisers • Placement in a 134-year-old newspaper (and on www.theobserver.com) and our paper that readers are loyal each and every week. Truth is, nothing can compare to our Classified Section. Why take the risk with Craigslist? Try The Observer’s Classifieds ... and see results right away. Call us today to place your ad. (201) 991-1600

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Observer Classifieds

Looking to make extra cash? Are you a handyman? Painter?

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

PEST CONTROL

MASONRY

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HARRISON

N.ARLINGTON

PEST CONTROL

“Five star contractors”

LACA CORP

HARRISON 1 bedroom . LR. EIK. 1 bath fully equipped all included (gas, electric & internet) $1900 + 1.5 months security. No Pets/Smoking. Laundry area in apartment with Washer/dryer Available August 1st Call 732-429-9372 for more information 12W03

N.ARLINGTON Duplex 2nd ﬂoor 4 bedroom apartment with 2 baths. LR, DR. $3,000/mth plus 1 mth security. Utilities Seperate. Plenty of closet space. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now (201)927HARRISON 1st ﬂ, 1 bed 1049 12W03 room, kitchen, bath and living room. $1450. 1 year lease required. 1.5 month security, utilities seperate, no pet no smoking . 973-437-6799 for appointment 14W03

KEARNY

Advertise your talents with

The Observer Your ad will appear in print & online and will reach thousands of loyal customers in print & on the web!

Call (201) 991-1600

N.ARLINGTON Apartment for rent No pets. No smoking. Available now 201-997-6666. 11W04

KEARNY 2nd ﬂoor Spacious 3 BR apt. w/ofﬁce, bath, EIK, LR, DR, laundry hook-up, storage, $2,200 month + utilities. 1.5 months security. Easy access to transportation into Jersey City or Manhattan via bus or train. Available 9/1/22. (732)6887760 13W03

Want your ad to stand out from the rest? Try adding some

COLOR

Find our how by calling The Observer’s Classified Department at (201) 991-1600 TODAY!

Call 973-932-2092

Licensed and Insured 09W06

HALL FOR RENT

COLOR

ROOFING/SIDING

New + Re-rooﬁng • Flat rooﬁng • Siding • Gutters

KEARNY Spacious room for rent in a brand new erickconstructionnj.com house. Shared kitchen Free estimates - Fully insured Lic#13VH04302300 10W54 and bathroom. Has laundry and dish washer inside the apartment. Utilities and internet inB&A ROOFING cluded. Women only. Call High quality job at a 201.772.4573 12W03 affordable price Specialize in Shingles, Flat Roofs, New & CAR FOR repair siding,gutters, Tree Removal SALE

12W03

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

Paint * Powerwash* and More •Interior • Exterior •Free Estimates•Fully Insured 973-759-8869 973-930-5002 50W52

FRANK’S ASPHALT SEALCOATING • Parking Lots • Paving & Repairs

For Fast, Quality Service

Call Frankie

(973)704-1272

Over 20 years Experience 12W03

FENIELLO CONTRACTING LLC.

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN

BASEMENT RENOVATIONS NO MORE WASTED SPACE. Baths, Kitchens, Decks Painting. All types of Home Improvement. Quality work. Fair prices Fully insured. Lic# 13vh03006100

Mario Esposito’s Landscaping LLC •Clean-up •Lawn Maintenance •Top soil •Mulch •Spring Clean up Free Estimate (201) 438-3991 11W04

(201) 906-2422

11W06

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

Cadillac DeVille 1998 color Silver, 84,400 MI. Black leather interior, no dings or dents on the outside of vehicle. Has a clear coat ﬁnish and very nice shine Black Leather . No noticeable wear. interior is nice. New radiator, new new Delco alternator, new car battery, rear bushings replaced, car recently tuned tune up. car runs good and looks good. *Asking $5,000 Cash, interested parties call 973-866-6088 Call for photos

11W06

Want your ad to stand out from the rest? Try adding some

ROOM FOR RENT KEARNY

Brick paver specialist All concrete work. Blacktop driveways. Power washing. Satisfaction guaranteed. Free estimates. (973) 979-1167 or (973) 323-5123

DRIVEWAY PAVING

Find our how by calling The Observer’s Classified Department at (201) 991-1600 TODAY!

09W06

Let’s get back to work! Decks Cleaned & Coated. Clean out your home, attics, basements Senior Discounts. Call William J. McGuire (201)955-2520

Jean’s grass hedges and tree trimmings On the spot will get it done! Our prices and service will be the best. Senior Discount (201)565-6393 12W06

06W09

PAINTING & DECORATING Kevin’s Affordable Painting * Plastering * Sheetrocking * Carpentry and more. Our service and prices will be the best. Our customers come ﬁrst. Very neat and clean. Don’t miss out! Senior Discount. Fully insured (201) 565-6393 11W06

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

G&R BUILDERS

RUBBISH REMOVAL

Rooﬁng,

Siding, Windows/Doors, Decks, Gutter Cleaning Painting, Tiles & Masonry, Sheet Rock. All types of Carpentry

FREE ESTIMATES 20% Senior Citizen Discounts

A-1 AFFORDABLE RUBBISH REMOVAL

Attics, Basements, Yard Cleaning. We Haul or You Can Rent 10-15 Cubic Yard Containers. We Accept Visa/MasterCard

(201) 998-1262

(201) 893-0656

11W06

Lic. #13VH02536200 11W06

10W06

PAYLESS ROOFING Commercial & Residential

Rooﬁng -Siding Repair Power washing & Chimneys Same day service

(973)906-8404 Call for a FREE estimate

Many local References Established 1999 LIC#13VH00418100 11W06

• Concrete • Brick work • Steps • Stone Walls • Tiles • Painting • Sheetrock • Drywall • Plastering ALL types of Masonry For Free Estimates Call Edinson (973) 943-2254 12W06

PLUMBING & HEATING

CLEANING SERVICES

JOSEPH V. FERRIERO Plumbing & Heating

CHAMPION CLEANING

Kitchen and bath remodeling. Carpentry. Hot Water Heaters. Fully Ins. Lic# 165

(201)637-1775

I use my own supplies. Good rates and great references! Call Susan at

10W06

(973)743-2039 11W04

NOTARY SERVICES MADE EASY AT THE OBSERVER’S KEARNY OFFICE SERVICES INCLUDE THE NOTARIZATION OF: n Real Estate Transactions n Mortgage Refinancing n Will Preparation n Powers of Attorney n Representation Agreements n Affidavits & Declarations n Notarizations & Authentications

Lisa M. Feorenzo

NOTARY PUBLIC

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

TRAFFIC & TRANSIT

Continued from Page 1

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

in both directions for the installation of constructions signs. Two lanes of traffic will be maintained in both directions during construction. In the upcoming weeks, daytime lane closures on Route 21 in both directions will be required for curb work and concrete deck repairs. Milling and paving of Route 21 is expected to begin in 2023. NJDOT will provide advanced notification prior to any future closures. This work is part of a $8.8 million federally funded project that will

preserve approximately five miles of pavement on 21 in Belleville and Nutley(as well as in Clifton and Passaic.) In addition, concrete deck repairs will be made to approximately 8 bridges on Route 21. The project is expected to be complete in the fall of 2023. Variable Message Signs will be used to provide advanced notification to motorists. The precise timing of work is subject to change due to weather or other factors.

LOCAL MOVES & LONG DISTANCE IN HOUSE MOVES (LABOR ONLY) RENTAL BIN SERVICES LOAD & UNLOAD PODS

10% OFF WITH THIS AD!

CALL NOW & GET YOUR

FREE

AFFORDABLE MOVING QUOTE! WWW.GOWAGON.COM 201-921-6432

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

BHS celebrates Ice Cream Day

The Belleville Historical Society celebrated National Ice Cream Day with free ice cream visits to the Belleville Library & the Kingsland Manor in Nutley in mid July. It was served from Mike Perrone’s Good Humor Ice Cream bike.

ZACH’S GARAGE “Your Best Choice for Auto Repair and Maintenance in Kearny”

• Auto Electrical Services • Engine Services • Exhaust Services • Fleet Services • Heating & Air Conditioning Repair • Standard Maintenance • Tire Services • Transmission

790 Kearny Ave. • Kearny, New Jersey (201) 428-1872 • WWW.ZACH-GARAGE.COM

0% FINANCING UP TO 18 MONTHS! NO MONEY DOWN!

201.991.4165

Any Job Over $5,000 Coupon must be presented at time of estimate. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Exp. 8/31/22

FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED • REFERENCES

DRIVEWAYS • LOTS • PATIOS • BELGIAN BLOCK • SIDEWALKS CONCRETE CURBS • PAVERS • RETAINING WALLS • STEPS • SNOW PLOWING & MORE!

• Boilers • Bathroom Remodeling • Oil to Gas Conversions

• Sewers Video Camera Inspections

267 River Rd. | North Arlington | New Jersey

LIC# 9529 |T: 201.997.8565 | F: 201.997.1085 | www.DeGracePlumbing.com

NJ Plumb# 11103 / HVAC# 19HC00064800

COURAGEOUS

PLUMBING, HEATING, COOLING Sewer & Drain Cleaning/Excavations Central AC/Furnaces/Humidifiers

$25 OFF

YOUR FIRST JOB CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFERING

Oil to Gas Conversion, Inspections, Hot Water Heaters, Permit Corrections for Resale Visa, Mastercard and Discover Accepted courageousllc.com • courageousplumb@aol.com

201.206.4845 • 908.387.8150

REFRIGERATION • AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • SALES • SERVICE NORTH ARLINGTON, NJ WAYNE CANGIALOSI ROCHELLE PARK, NJ NJ LIC.# 13VHO1132900 • NJ Master HVACR Lic.# 19HCOO868800

201-981-0852

waynehvacr@verizon.net • www.waynerefrigeration.com

Your ad could be here! Call us today at

201.991.1600

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

KPD

Continued from Page 7 summons with driving with a suspended license. He was then turned over to Newark police. Washington was given a breath test at the police station and then charged with DWI and reckless driving. He was later released. On July 25 at 8:30 a.m., Officer Nick Funk arrested Yasmen Eissa, 37, of Clifton, who turned herself in for an outstanding arrest summons for which she was processed and later released. The summons was generated as a result of a July 20 incident at the swimming pool at the Vermella apartment complex on Passaic Avenue. A 55-year-old resident had called police July 20 reporting Eissa assaulted her. It was alleged Eissa had been drinking alcohol for several hours and then threw a vape pen at the victim, twice. When the victim tried to ignore her, Eissa allegedly called her “white trash” and asked other pool-goers, “Who wants to see this white trash go down?” Eissa allegedly advanced on the victim, pulled her hair and threw her to the ground, injuring the victim’s eye. The victim filed a report and sought attention from EMS. When the victim woke up the next morning, she was unable to see out of her right eye and followed up with

POLICE BEAT Det. Kyle Plaugic and Officer Harold Azurdia. After further investigation, Officer Azurdia filed a charge of aggravated assault against Eissa. On July 26 at 4:27 p.m., Officer Kevin Carvalho was dispatched to ShopRite on a shoplifting complaint. A store manager accused Mariahdes C. Balisages, 23, of Newark, of using a self-checkout lane and failing to ring up $52.83 of food and bags before trying to leave with the merchandise. Balisages was charged on a summons with shoplifting and later released. On July 27 at approximately 5:30 p.m., Det. Michael Farinola arrested Nicolas Saavedra, 25, of Kearny, when he turned himself in at police headquarters. Saavedra was wanted on a theft charge for which he received a summons and was later released. The charge stemmed from a report made April 12 by a local pest control company owner for whom Saavedra was employed to perform clerical duties. An investigation showed Saavedra diverted more than $50,000 in customer payments to his personal bank account instead of depositing them into the company’s account. It

was alleged this occurred over a period exceeding two years and Saavedra then filed false records in the company’s accounting software to disguise the misappropriations. On July 27 at 7:32 p.m., Officers Luis Cazares, Danny Maganinho, and Bryan San Martin investigated a report of a man asleep behind the wheel of a Nissan that was blocking a New Lawn Avenue driveway. The officers woke Troy D. Sweatnam, 32, of Kearny, who reportedly handed them his vehicle’s driver manual and then went back to sleep. Awakened a second time, Sweatnam was reportedly unable to pass field sobriety tests, so officers arrested him. Incident to his arrest, officers seized a tightly-rolled dollar bill covered with drug residue, three wax folds of heroin stamped “TMT,” empty heroin wax folds, a paring knife and a serrated steak knife. The officers learned Sweatnam was wanted by the NYPD for grand larceny and by the Belleville Municipal Court for DWI. He was charged with possession of heroin and drug paraphernalia, unlawful possession of a weapon, fugitive from justice, DWI, refusal to submit to breath testing, operating a vehicle in possession of narcotics and other traffic offenses. Sweatnam was held at the Hudson County jail.

WHAT’s ‘Rock of Ages’ set for mid August The West Hudson Arts and Theater Company’s outdoor summer series continues with a “Rock of Ages” juke box aing-along Saturday, Aug. 20, at 8 p.m. on the lawn of VFW Post 1302, at 300 Belgrove Drive, Kearny — rain or shine. Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chair for this follow-up to last month’s “We Love Disney” event. This audience sing-along features of dozens 1980s class rock songs, the lyrics to which will be projected on a screen with a bouncing ball to follow along. The suggested donation is $10, payable at the gate. There are no pre-sale tickets available. You can’t BYOB, but the VFW will be open to the public. Visit www.whatconj.org for additional information. — CANESSA

North Hudson Community Action Corporation has received 1,000 doses of Monkeypox (JYNNEOS) vaccines for distribution throughout Hudson County this week. Persons eligible to receive Monkeypox vaccine are only gay and transgender men, men and women who engage in risky sexual behavior or have come in close contact with someone who has Monkeypox. The vaccine is given in two doses, so people who receive vaccines in August must get a second dose four weeks later in September. It will be fast and easy for people to register on line through www.nhcac.org/northhudsonmonkeypox but walk-ins will be accepted with on-site registration. Vaccinations will be given 9 am to 4 pm Monday through Thursday, August 8th through 11th at the Journal Square campus of Hudson County Community College, 70 Sip Avenue, Jersey City, and the North Hudson campus at 4800 Kennedy Boulevard, West New York. Vaccinations will be given at the East Newark Recreation Center Wednesday and Thursday, August 10th and 11th from 9 am to 4 pm and at the Kearny Health Department Friday, August 12th, from 1 to 6 pm. The privacy of all registrants and vaccine recipients will be protected, but applicants must provide photo ID. There will be no charge to recipients for the vaccine or its distribution.

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

DENTISTRY DEDICATED

TO EXCELLENCE. With combined experience of 50 years, Dr. Elfar and his team of dental professionals, provide the highest

$99*

quality of dentistry at affordable prices!

NEW PATIENT EXAM, CLEANING AND X-RAYS

SERVICES • General Dentistry

• Invisalign

*FOR NONINSURED PATIENTS

• Cosmetic Dentistry • Pediatric Dentistry • Implants

• Periodontics

• Dentures

• Preventative/

• Oral Surgery

FREE

CONSULTATIONS (FOR IMPLANTS & INVISALIGN ONLY.

Hygiene

X-RAYS NOT INCLUDED.)

No insurance? No problem! Call us about our in house discount plan.

$395 IN OFFICE WHITENING

Mina A. Elfar, D.M.D. General, Cosmetic, & Family Dentistry

GOOGLE REVIEW "This is the best dental practice I've been to by far! Professional and friendly staff. Took me in right away. Very clean and new office. I was extremely impressed. Dr. Elfar and all his staff is personable and committed to providing the best care. Will be recommending to all my friends and family! 5/5!" -Rami Alrabaa

FLEXIBLE HOURS • EARLY, LATE AND WEEKEND HOURS 837 KEARNY AVE. KEARNY, NJ T: 201.991.1055

NEW LOCATION!

645 MAIN ST. • HACKENSACK, NJ T: 201.347.5001

WWW.GENUINESMILESPA.COM

2 W NORTHFIELD RD. SUITE 302B LIVINGSTON, NJ T: 973.758.8922