e-Newspaper for Nov. 2, 2022

October 28 fire damages home at Elm Street & Seeley Avenue in Kearny

Nearly 80% of nurses at Clara Maass Medical Center vote to unionize

By Ron Leir For The Observer

Nurses at Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville have opted to unionize as a strategy to improve the well-being of their patients and themselves.

Close to 80% of the approximately 500-member nursing staff — including full-time, part-time and per-diem — at the hospital voted recently to align themselves with Local 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers, which bills itself as the largest bargaining agent for caregivers in the Garden State.

The 282-84 vote in favor of unionizing was sanctioned in August by

the National Labor Relations Board.

Now the new unionists are focused on negotiating the first contract for their members at Clara Maass, a 472-bed hospital which has, since its acquisition by RWJ/Barnabas in 2016, has seen a multi-million dollar renovation of its aging campus with a new 4-story, 87,000-square-foot addition in front of the hospital which included a 32-bed ICU on the top floor.

In the process, RWJ/Barnabas recruited physician tenants to lease newly created medical office space, added four new operating rooms and

Joseph Mastandrea says the

Meanwhile,

Photo by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

ontested

candidates

theobserver.com

on

at

here,

those running for council.

candi dates with contested elections

respond. (Harrison has four council races, all uncontested, so we did not extend invites to those candidates —

considerations, especially.)

We feature candidates who responded to the opportunity to do so. If you do not see a candidate you expected to see, it’s because said candidate did not submit responses.

We present responses in alphabetic order by town name and under each town, by the candidates’ ward in numeric

order. North Arlington does not have wards, so candidates will be listed in alphabetic order.

We begin, therefore, in Kearny and end with North Arlington. (* indicates incum bent).

n KEARNY George Zapata, First Ward What drove you to run for council?

As someone who adamantly believes our public institutions are at their most effective when you have an active populace, I have always strived to be involved in our community. Serving on the school board, I witnessed first-hand the importance of participation in shaping policy that impacts our community at the local level. I look forward to working alongside the mayor and Council to continue guiding Kearny forward toward a brighter tomorrow.

What local organizations do you belong to? Additionally, describe your volunteer activities in the town for which you seek office.

I am currently serving my second term on the Kearny Board of Education, the past two (years) as Vice President. Throughout my tenure I presided on various committees, ranging from labor relations to curriculum and instruction. My focus is working alongside our administration to ensure that the quality level of education that I was provided during my time in the Kearny School District is not only still intact but constantly improving. I firmly believe that education is the cornerstone to any great society and Kearny is no exception.

I also serve on the Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority as a commissioner. Our focus as commissioners, as with any board, is working alongside the administration to provide the highest level of services to South Kearny. My main takeaway from my years of service to Kearny is understanding the roles and responsibilities of being on any board, particularly the distinction between policy making and carrying out those

policies.

What are two immediate goals you plan to attempt to accomplish on the council if you are elected? Please be specific for both.

One of the hot button issues facing our beloved town is parking. I know firsthand in our neighborhood there is no parking after 6:30 p.m., and little to no parking on the Avenue after 8 p.m. Having attended and participated in the town-wide discussions on parking with our consultant, I firmly believe there will not be a one size fits all solution for the parking issue. We will need all hands-on deck to customize and tailor any ordinances so that we, as a governing body, can positively improve the parking in town.

Another hot button issue is the growing traffic on Passaic Avenue. I know firsthand that regardless of time of day, we all have been dealing with an increased bumper to bumper traffic on Passaic Avenue as you enter East Newark. The town has already begun to address this by conducting a traffic study and looking to add another lane near that entrance but once elected, I plan to actively engage with both my fellow councilmembers and our town engineer as this will be an ongoing issue in the near future.

Are you content with your “downtown” shopping district? What would you do to improve it?

The revitalization of Passaic Avenue has led to an explosion of economic redevelopment and a resurgence of businesses that our residents would like to

Compiled by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

ZAPATA

see in town. That said, the next focus is going to be on keeping the commuter traffic at a level that does not hinder our residents.

The Santos team has already begun to address this by having a traffic study and looking at adding a different lane on Passaic Ave toward East Newark which I believe will help alleviate the traffic. I look forward to working with them on further improving Passaic Avenue.

The effects of the new developments are noticeable on Kearny Avenue as we are seeing more local businesses setting up shop in town and adding to what makes our town unique. From The Crepe Escape to Q’tal to a new Dona Maria, the Avenue is reflective of Kearny: a welcoming and inclusive community for all.

What are your favorite places in town to frequent? Why?

My go-to if I’m in a shopping mood is spending

some time at Marshalls or the Heaven Cent Thrift Shop at First Presbyterian. If you’re looking for a well-seasoned Peruvian chicken look no further than Rocky’s on the Ave. Lately I have been recommending Torshi’s on Passaic Avenue, a must visit for Mediterranean dishes.

That said, Kearny Avenue has continuously served as a barometer of our town’s culture and heritage. Regardless of your culinary appetites, you can find a bounty of dishes that reflect our own upbringings and background. From European and Latin American staple dishes to bubble tea and tres leches, the Ave offers a vast array of options for all our residents.

Make one final statement like you would in a debate that could serve as a plea to the voters to choose you.

Regardless of political affiliation, local governance is centered around providing essential services for our

town to run efficiently. I ask you, as the electorate, to press the candidates on their understanding of this concept above all else. As early as I was eligible to vote I have served this electorate with one goal: bettering our community. As you have entrusted me in prior elections with this responsibility, I ask your support as I look to further improve the First Ward.

Peter Santana, Second Ward * I’ve worked with the Kearny Police Department to improve our technology to fight crime in our town. In addition to a fully staffed table of organization, we have expanded the number of

cameras installed around town to better support our police in solving crimes. These cameras have been instrumental in investigations detectives have solved.

We also purchased two new drones that will help the Kearny Police Department to solve crimes much quicker, find suspects who otherwise might get away and help officers to get into locations that would be impossible to survey without a drone.

n

We have many accomplishments to be proud of being able to keep our tables of organization fully staffed while decreasing the

municipal portion of our property taxes is certainly one of them. However, fighting the NJSEA should to shoulder with Mayor Santos, my colleagues on the Town Council and our residents to shut down the Keegan Landfill was unforgettable.

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For me, frustration may be more the word, not being able to move quicker on the sewer pump station that will serve the residents of Sanford Avenue due to the many bureaucracies and permitting requirements that a project of that size and nature entails. This is despite our desire to get this done as

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soon as possible for this area. Notwithstanding that, I will continue to work hard with my Second Ward council colleague Rich Konopka to push to get this project done.

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Since 2017, I’ve had the honor to serve this great town and our residents of the Second Ward.

I’m proud to be the chairman of the Police Committee, where together

with Councilmen Konopka and Jerry Ficeto, along with our Police Chief and Deputy Chief, we’ve shared ideas and put in place procedures to enhance public safety in our town. It’s very much a collective effort. I’m also a member of the Water and Lighting Committees

n

We have been working with the KUEZ to support our businesses and find innovative ways to attract patrons. There is always room

Happy Anniversary

John & Joan

John and Joan Kirby, formerly of Kearny, are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. Married on November 3, 1962 in St. Aloysius Church, Newark. John is a retired Kearny fireman. They are parents to four and grandparents to seven.

for improvement, and we will keep looking for grants and new ways to strengthen our business district.

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Having a 3-year old son makes this question easy to answer. I love going to parks and restaurants with my son and wife. More specifically, we tend to be at the Gunnell Oval either playing soccer on the little field, or in the playground. That facility has so much to offer to all ages. We definitely take advantage of it and by the time my little one is ready to go home, I’m exhausted myself. If any resident hasn’t yet been to the renovated facility, I encourage you to stop by and enjoy it.

n

There are so many things we have done for the Second Ward residents in my tenure, and I am so honored to have been chosen by you to serve for the last four years. So I’m once again asking for your vote to continue to serve as we still have so much to do and finish the projects we have started. Kearny is a great town to live and we are working to keep it that way! I hope that I have earned your vote Nov. 8. Thank you.

Eileen Eckel, Third Ward *

complishment than one that can be shared and celebrated by us all.

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I do not consider it a regret, however, the misinterpreta tion of what the term PILOT actually means is one that I wish we could have made more clear to our residents. There are still so many who think that it means that rede velopers do not pay taxes. That is not true. They pay no taxes to the county or to the school system, but their tax dollars all go to the Town of Kearny. We in turn are appropriating a portion to the Kearny Public Schools and as a result we have not only been able to reduce the municipal portion of the tax bill but build our surplus and increase our credit rating. This has made Kearny more desirable to investors and attracted new businesses into town.

n

I was elected in 2004 . I currently chairwoman the Fire Committee and am the liaison to the Kearny Public Library and a member of the Recreation Committee.

n

Learn about our national model

student

athletics,

As Chairperson of the Fire Committee, the work I have done with the Kearny Fire Department is extremely rewarding. It is a great op portunity to provide support to the heroic and dedicated members of the KFD. Meet ing with the chief regularly to discuss staffing, budget, acquisition of equipment, grant funding, community outreach and then being able to transmit that information to the Mayor and Council in order to facilitate and imple ment those recommenda tions has provided a stream lined and effective way to ensure that our staffing stays consistent, our equipment is safe (and paid for) and excel lent training is provided.

n

Once again it is difficult to narrow it down to only one. My top two would have to be the Gunnell Oval (refur bishment) and (closing) the Keegan Landfill. Both repre sent the combined efforts of our Mayor, the entire Town Council and the residents of Kearny. There is no better ac

There are several that come to mind but there are two that I feel are most signifi cant.

Experience matters. Under standing how local govern ment works and being able to advocate for residents, business owners and em ployees effectively is critical. The stabilization of taxes, the redevelopment of key areas in town, the support for emergency services and finding ways to improve our recreational facilities are all evidence of a steady hand and the ability to get it done. The people in Kearny trust me to listen, research, ask questions on their behalf and act accordingly.

In addition to experience, I strongly believe that there is no room for hate in Kearny.

I have the utmost respect for each individual’s right to their identity, to choose their path and practice their faith. The idea that the govern ment should remain neutral and not officially recognize or favor any one religion defines the separation of religion and government and

SANTANA

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addition to these yummy options we have beautiful green open spaces and a public library that is second to none.

When I first ran for Town Council, the residents were focused on the lack of redevelopment, the increases in taxes, the downsizing of the Police and Fire departments due to economic hardships and the critical need for improvements in recreational facilities. But they were also focused on their love for this town and the certainty that we would find a way to not only survive, but thrive!

We were told we would never attract commercial/corporate attention in Kearny, that we were not the right demographic. They were wrong. Through hard work and persistent, consistent and focused planning, we have emerged as a small town with big accomplishments!

Attending hundreds of events, celebrations and services over the past years, I

have gained perspective about the very diverse community that we are. Representing all of Kearny‘s residents is a duty I take very seriously because our government exists for all people. Equity, respect, compassion and the rule of law must continue to guide us.

Understanding that there is always work to be done and new challenges to take on while providing measured and thoughtful solutions exemplifies my approach. I am grateful to have Mayor Santos, the Kearny Town Council and talented, dedicated professionals to work with as we continue to move Kearny forward. I appreciate your confidence and support and hope you will cast your vote on Line B to allow me to continue serving you as your Third Ward Councilwoman.

David Paszkiewicz, Third Ward

I am running for council because I feel it needs to be more responsive to the needs and concerns of its constituents. Many residents

have expressed to me their belief that some members of the council have grown complacent and no longer listen to them. It seems they have grown comfortable because of their extended time in office. I have also observed over the years that a council seat has simply become a convenient way to enrich oneself and I oppose that. Some members have been in office for years and will receive a pension with health insurance. Although the salary is only $6,000 per year and the pension would be modest, some end up with county jobs before they retire. Because the county is under the same pension system, all it takes is three years in that county job to substantially pad your pension. The state bases your pension on your three highest years of income. If elected, my mind will be set on improving the town of Kearny, not padding my pension. I will not run for more than two terms. The current administration has the appearance of a dynasty. I will push for term limits.



I volunteer through two local organizations. I am the founder and pastor of Berea Baptist Church of Kearny and I am the president and founder of Second River Rowing Inc. Second River Rowing Inc. is the booster organization for the Kearny High School girls’ crew team. It consists of parents and alumni with a purpose of supplementing the KBOE. budget for the team.

Second River was founded in 2018 and has since purchased two racing shells, put on clinics, provided meals for the team at races, provided motel rooms for the team at the Stotesbury Cup and Scholastic Nationals and provided motorcoaches and rooms for the team to compete in Virginia. Second River also puts on an end of season awards dinner for the athletes and provides a scholarship. In the past five years, Second River raised around $80,000 for the team through membership dues and fundraisers.

The primary organization I volunteer through is Berea

Baptist Church of Kearny. I founded Berea Baptist Church in 2016 and have volunteered as its pastor ever since. I hold services on Sunday and a prayer meeting and Bible study on Wednesday nights. Every summer, the church cooperates with Calvary Methodist church in putting on a vacation Bible school. In addition, the church supports Calvary Methodist Church’s food pantry through which we are beginning a Spanish-language ministry. In short, volunteerism is a guiding principle in my life and I live it weekly.

Additional volunteer activities include coaching Kearny Recreation rowing, winter training for KHS crew, and advising the KHS Alpha & Omega and Fishing clubs over the years. Volunteering to me is more than just showing up for an hour at a river cleanup or ribbon cutting for a political photo opp., it’s a way of life.

As far as immediate goals, I entertain no delusions. I

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ECKEL

will be one of eight, hopefully part of two of eight alternative voices on the council if elected along with Sydney Ferreira in the Fourth Ward. That’s not exactly a majority, but together we will be the voice of the Kearny resident, not wealthy developers. We will enter negotiations with a single purpose getting a winning deal for the Kearny taxpayer.

We will work vigorously on common goals like alleviating Kearny’s parking problem but not by creating a bloated taxpayer-funded agency to sell permits that can’t possibly guarantee enough spaces for permit holders. A parking commission will not solve the problem, it will only create more positions for career politicians to fill with their cronies.

I will also stress strict enforcement of parking violations as well as enforcement of existing ordinances regarding the renting illegal apartments. In addition, I will support diagonal parking in appropriate areas as well as the construction of parking lots on properties acquired by the town.

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I believe I am a better candidate than my opponent because I will listen to the concerns of my constituents. As I meet constituents they often ask, “who are you running against? Carol Jean Doyle?” When I tell them no, they are shocked to learn that the Third Ward has two councilmembers because they never heard of Eileen Eckel. Constituents don’t know her because she doesn’t get out among them. I know their concerns because I volunteer in the community, work in the community and am a product of the community. I am a lifelong resident (54 years) and I am a product of the Kearny school system where I have been a teacher for 31 years and a crew coach for 35 years. In addition, my volunteer experience has caused me to learn how to manage prudently in order to stretch a dollar as well as to work as part of a team. This temperament will be an asset to the current council.

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In regard to Kearny’s

downtown shopping district, I believe small businesses have been hurt by introducing Walmart and developing Passaic Avenue for retail shopping. I’m not against the establishments that exist there, but I think further big box retail should be curbed in favor of supporting the small businesses of residents. I’m old enough to remember Christmas shopping on Kearny Avenue in places like Zelner’s, Drug Fair, Youth World, Ben Franklin, etc. The energy and enthusiasm could be felt. Kearny and Midland avenues are a real treasure. They are like a nostalgic scene out of the 1950s. We need to do all we can to support small businesses and keep the distinct charm of these areas. Part of that might include adding additional police officers on foot during peak hours to give shoppers and diners the added assurance that they are safe.

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My favorite areas to frequent in Kearny are its green spaces. I’m somewhat of an urban redneck and I love the outdoors. When my kids were young and there was better access, we would fish the Kearny marsh for bass. Even at age 54 you can still find me on occasion sledding down bunny hill. I also love the Passaic River. I love walking its banks, contemplating the great events of history that occurred there and fishing the striped bass run in the Fall and Spring. As a council member, I will do all I can to preserve these green spaces and improve upon them. I would actually like to see a fishing pier built one day for catch and release fishing and bird watching. I would also like to see greater access to the Kearny Marsh by way of trails and canoe and kayak access. Lastly, one of my passions is archery, Kearny has an outdoor

archery range. I don’t know of another suburb that has one. It’s a real gem! n

In short, I am running for council because I feel it needs to be more responsive to its constituents. Residents are concerned with the complacency and dismissiveness of the current council regarding issues that are important to them. The level of frustration on the part of residents is palpable. I myself have experienced this dismissiveness first hand. One year ago, I requested that the Christmas manger scene at the town hall be moved. I felt that its location was insensitive. It was hidden from view behind shrubs and could not be seen from the street by any angle. It was a problem that could have been solved with a $50 extension cord but the current administration chose to ignore me as well as hundreds of residents who shared my concern. I desire to give the residents of the third ward the voice they have not had. In addition, I will not be a rubber stamp for the current administration. I will oppose dynastic rule and push for term limits. I will always stand on the side of the Kearny tax payer as well as traditional American values. If you are a registered voter in the Third Ward, I hope you will consider voting line 4H David Paszkiewicz.

Sydney Ferreira, Fourth Ward

I am running for council, first and foremost, to be the voice

of my neighbors and fellow residents of the Fourth Ward. In my conversations with residents, the recurring theme has been that most residents feel our leaders are out of touch and their concerns fall on deaf ears.

I have been taking notes, and if elected, I will bring their concerns before the council. I will be the voice of so many of us who believe the system is rigged and no longer works for us, unless we have connections in Town Hall. The residents see some positions and titles handed out to friends and family members of those in power; we the residents believe that government jobs should be given to people based on what they know, not who they know.

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I am the treasurer of the Acores Social & Sport Club, a Portuguese cultural association in Newark. Over the years, we have contributed to various local organizations and churches in the community, and most notably, we ran a food pantry during the pandemic of 2020 that inspired other local cultural associations to do the same.

I am an active member of the St. Stephen’s Church Choir in Kearny, where I am a parishioner as well. I am also a member of the Portuguese Cultural Association of Kearny (ACP).

Over the years, I have donated to several local charities and volunteered at various local events, such as cultural festivals, food pantries

In Memoriam

A. Tortoreti

Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com

Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

Michelle

and fundraisers within Kearny and the local area.

n

I would immediately introduce a measure that would establish term limits for Mayor and Council, and I would go even further to disqualify anyone who is currently serving and has already exceeded their term limits from running again for re-election after the expiration of their current term.

This will prevent the rise of local political machines that create barriers to entry for fresh faces and new voices, and we must encourage more people to get involved by attending Town Hall meetings to voice their concerns and hold our leaders accountable. Hopefully, more residents will even start to run for local office themselves, which is what our current leadership does not want.

I would also introduce a measure that would promote tax fairness for all of us by banning all future long-term PILOTs and other tax breaks/ abatements for large-scale residential developers. The tenants of the Vermellas pay premium rents to live in those beautiful buildings, there is no reason why the owner (Russo) cannot pay his full share of taxes.

Property taxes affect us all — landlords and tenants alike. If some are not paying their fair share, the rest of us will have to pay more to compensate for the

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loss in revenue, or town services will have to be cut to reduce expenses, which is precisely what has happened over the years.

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I have never met my opponent in person or even heard of him before this election, so it would be unfair and unproductive to point out his shortcomings. However, I do know that he was hand-picked by outgoing Councilwoman (Sue) McCurrie and the Santos administration. I believe he would be more of the same and a rubber stamp for the Santos agenda, which has saddled us with the re-opening of the Keegan Landfill, the 30 year tax breaks (PILOTs) for the four Vermella projects, a severe shortfall in parking spaces, heavy traffic and congestion, cuts in town services, and crumbling roads and other infrastructure (such as sewers and water pumping stations that has led to severe flooding in certain parts of town).

I can reassure voters that I will not be a rubber stamp for anyone’s agenda, except

to improve our town and the quality of life for our residents, our families and our small businesses. I will not be afraid to be the dissenting voice on the Council. I will challenge the status quo, question decisions and demand accountability. I will be a true independent voice without an agenda and beholden to no one, no political party or any other special interest.

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While I do not object to big-box retailers, I feel our landscape in town is dominated by them, and they have decimated small businesses along our main thoroughfares. We have seen a resurgence again of restaurants and small

Estate

shops and our town needs to go a step further, because we still have many empty storefronts. We should set up an area of town to be designated as our “downtown” shopping, business and dining district. Perhaps somewhere along Kearny or Midland avenues, this would be an area of town (an Improvement District) that we could shut down a few times of year to vehicle traffic and hold cultural and arts fairs and an annual Restaurant Week or “Dining under the Stars” as is done in nearby Rutherford.

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What I enjoy most is simply going for long walks throughout town, greeting neighbors and residents along the way that I’ve known throughout the years or recently met during these last two campaigns. I love seeing the old familiar sites, while appreciating the new improved areas of town.

As for specific places, there are too many to mention here, and I wouldn’t want to mistakenly omit any of them. I love that there are so many different options in town brought to us by a very diverse population that has only enriched our quality of life in Kearny. I love the fact that I can grab a meal, hang out with friends, visit my doctor, get a haircut, purchase gifts, and

many other things all in my hometown — the town where I was born and raised and still deeply love.

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Over the last two years in all my conversations with residents, there seems to be a common theme — our leaders have been in the same positions for too long, and they no longer listen to or act on our concerns. This validated my original reason for entering the race for Mayor last year, as I too had personally become frustrated with the apathy and inaction of Town Hall over the years. It seems that just holding a competitive election puts our leaders on notice and drives them to do the work of the people again. We must also prevent the creation of dynastic rule by instituting term limits for Mayor and Council and start hiring based on qualifications again, not by association or relation.

Last year we ran a hastily created and very short campaign for Mayor, and even though we may have lost at the polls, we had some small but significant victories along the way — street paving resumed in full force, snow removal became a priority once more, our leaders started addressing parking concerns again, the Mayor finally agreed to hold in-person Town Council and Zoom meetings simultaneously,

residents started to see some of their MIA councilmembers at local events and walking their neighborhoods, many residents were excited about local politics and started following the issues and finally we stopped or at least delayed for now another 30-year tax abatement for the next Russo/ Vermella project in town, which reportedly had the full support of Councilwomen

Susan McCurrie of the Fourth Ward and Eileen Eckel of the Third Ward (the two contested seats in this election).

In the last year and a half, we accomplished so much from outside of Town Hall. Just imagine what we could accomplish from within the Council Chamber in Town Hall. If we take these two seats, the possibilities are endless, but we need your vote and the votes of your friends, family members, and neighbors. We can only accomplish this together and with your full support.

This Nov. 8, I humbly ask for your vote, in order to represent you and be your voice on the Council.

Stathis Theodoropoulos, Fourth Ward n

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Sports & Recreation

Boys’ State Tournament Roundup: North Arlington soccer catches fire at right time, Kards down Montclair

Kearny remains only girls’ soccer team still alive in state tourney

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Michael Sylvia described this season for his Kearny girls’ soccer team as one that could be broken up into three different chapters.

After a successful first chapter and a tumultuous second, the third chapter of this Kardinals year — the postseason — has thus far been one of triumph.

With six consecutive victories, including a 3-1 victory at Livingston in the North 1, Group 4 quarterfinals on Saturday, Kearny is the last Observer-area girls soccer team still alive in the state tournament.

received an Olivia Covell through ball and beat the keeper on a 1v1 for the goahead goal.

Now that we were tied, we weren’t going to let that game go to overtime,” said Raefski. “We were hungry, we wanted more goals and we were going to get them.”

Maci Covello added an insurance goal late, assisted by Araxiel Cardenas-Saenz. Gabriela Matias made eight saves and Aracely Vasquez had two.

This past Thursday, Kearny won its first round game over Fair Lawn by an emphatic 5-0 margin.

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

With six losses in its last seven games and an 8-12 overall record, this was not the regular season the North Arlington boys’ soccer team envisioned for itself, especially after winning its first three games of the year.

But as veteran head coach Kevin Barber reminded them, the rough schedule the Vikings endured would pay off come tournament time.

“There were no gimmies, we were really tested going into the states this year, but I knew it would help us out,” Barber said. “Now we’ve played those really good teams and we’re ready for what lies ahead with these really good Group 1 teams.”

North Arlington has certainly proved itself postseason ready, first with a 6-1 victory over West Caldwell Tech in the first round of the North 2, Group

1 tournament this past Thursday, followed by an 8-1 thumping of Wood-Ridge in the quarterfinals on Sunday.

The Vikings, seeded third, are now on to Wednesday’s semifinals where they’ll await the winner of the quarterfinal between secondseeded Ridgefield and seventh-seeded Glen Ridge.

“These past two games are the best stretch that we’ve had since that point where we were 3-0,” said Barber. “It’s a good time to get hot.”

North Arlington’s depth of playmakers and finishers have been on full display in these games, with Nicholas Stanzione posting two goals and three assists against Wood-Ridge after scoring twice in the win over West Caldwell Tech.

Vincent Richard has three goals with two assists over the two games and Mert Kutlutan has scored three goals, nearly matching his

entire regular season total. Freshman David Alvarez, who hadn’t scored since the season opener, has been a sparkplug in the tournament, scoring the first goal in both playoff games.

Barber also cites the return of all-league defender Sean Manzo from a hamstring as a key factor in the Vikings resurgence as he provides “a calming influence as a defender and as a leader.”

Everything seems to be coming together at just the right time for North Arlington and as Barber has reminded them, if this run continues, no one will remember the earlier losses.

“This team, our focus was always on states,” Barber said. “Yeah, (doing well) in the regular season is good, but we get measured now by what happens at this part of the year.”

Kearny, seeded fifth, plays top-seeded and undefeated Ridgewood, ranked No. 4 in the NJ.com Top 20, in the semifinals on Tuesday, Nov. 1. It is the furthest the Kardinals have gone in the state tournament since 2016, but that doesn’t mean they are content quite yet.

“There’s still a lot of work to do. We’re not even close to finishing the writing of our story,” Sylvia said. “But we definitely acknowledge that this is now a round further than we went last year. That’s a big deal for us. It shows our growth as a program. That’s a point of pride.”

Down 1-0 at the half after allowing a penalty kick goal, Kearny responded with three consecutive goals to advance.

Emily Horvaht tied it with a goal off a feed from Paige Raefski. Then, with about 20 minutes left, Raefski put the Kardinal ahead for good when she

“We knew that all that matters is that we come into the postseason playing our best soccer and being as fit as we possibly can. We’re pretty confident that we are doing that right now,” Raefski said. “We’re playing our best soccer, we still have some injuries, but for the most part, our starting lineup is almost 100-percent intact. We’re looking forward to these games coming up.”

While Kearny experienced jubilation in its quarterfinal, Lyndhurst experienced heartbreak as it fell to West Essex in penalty kicks by a 3-2 margin after playing to a 1-1 tie in the North 2, Group 2 quarterfinals. The Golden Bears had won eight of its last nine games prior to Saturday, the last a 2-1 overtime victory over Voorhees on Kayla Carrino’s game-winning goal.

North Arlington’s NJIC National Division

Photo courtesy of Felipe Carvalho

Left to right: Thomas Custodio, Sean Manzo, head coach Kevin Barber, Declan Hughes and Danny Janosek.

SOCCER

While North Arlington elected to play a day early, most of the state, including four Observer-area teams, were set to play their quarterfinals on Monday, Oct. 31, after The Observer went to print.

Kearny, despite finishing the regular season undefeated, is seeded third in a loaded North 1, Group 4 bracket. Facing a 14th-seeded Montclair team that was ranked in the statewide Top 20 for a large part of the year, the Kardinals

KEARNY

Continued from Page

championship season came to a premature end on Thursday when the Vi kings were upset by New Providence, 2-1, in the first round of the North 2, Group 1 tournament. Junior Lia

emerged with a 3-0 victory as Nico Gomez and David Gavilanez each had a goal and an assist as part of a dominant first half.

The road doesn’t get any easier for Kearny as 11th-seeded Livingston, perennially one of the state’s top defensive squads, awaits in the quarterfinals. With a win, the Kardinals would likely be heading on the road from that point forward, with a potential semifinal showdown at West Orange looming after last year’s heart-stopping final between the two teams.

In North 2, Group 2, topseeded Harrison hosts ninth-

Cruz scored the lone goal in defeat, her 28th of the sea son and 64th of her stellar career.

In North 2, Group 3, Nutley was defeated 6-0 by a Cranford team currently ranked No. 9 in the state by NJ.com.

The NJSIAA girls volleyball tournament also

seeded Hackettstown after posting a 3-1 victory over Parsippany in the first round. Gabriel Reis and sophomores Joel Rueda and Yusuf Jaite each scored a goal in the win.

Also in North 2, Group 2, fourth-seeded Lyndhurst held off Madison, 2-1, as Tyler Wise added to his breakthrough season by scoring his 21st goal of the year and adding an assist. If the Golden Bears can advance past fifth-seeded Hanover Park, they will get a third chance at Harrison in a semifinal matchup in Hudson County.

Belleville got an overtime goal from Ivan Garcia to

got underway last week.

Lyndhurst, the eighth seed in North 2, Group 2, won a three-set thriller over ninthseeded Parsippany Hills, 25-11, 19-25, 25-21 on Friday. Yasemin Ugurlu posted seven kills and Asya Akar had three blocks, eight digs and five aces for the Golden Bears, who play top-seeded

defeat Orange in the first round of the North 2, Group 3 tournament. The Bucs, seeded fourth, have a home date with a talented South Plainfield team in the quarterfinals.

West Orange’s playoff run started with a 1-0 victory over Bloomfield. Christopher House made 11 saves for the 15th-seeded Bengals in defeat. Neighboring rival Nutley also saw its season come to an end in the first round with an 8-0 loss to Cliffside Park in North 2, Group 3.

On the gridiron, North Arlington, the lone area team to qualify for the state playoffs, saw its historic season come

West Morris on Monday, Oct. 31, after publication in the quarterfinal.

Harrison, seeded seventh in Central, Group 1, swept 10th-seeded Roselle Park, 2511, 25-8 in the first. Xamarys Liranzo (three kills, five digs, 13 assists, three aces) led the way for the Blue Tide who were set to play secondseeded Hoboken on Oct. 31.

In North 1, Group 4, 12thseeded Bloomfield upset local rival and fifth-seeded

to an end with a 50-16 loss at Brearley in the first round of the North Jersey, Group 1 playoffs. Stopping Brearley QB Matt Sims proved to be too difficult of a task for the Vikings as the senior ran for 204 yards and five touchdowns.

In defeat, Devin Rivas concluded his incredible two-year run at quarterback, completing 14-of-27 passes for 189 yards and a TD while also rushing for 68 yards. Kyle Villani caught seven passes for 98 yards, Ian Crudele had four catches for 71 yards and a TD and Anthony Baulo ran for a score.

Montclair, 25-17, 26-24 in the first round behind nine kills from Camille Schiralli on Saturday. The Bengals play fourth-seeded Ridgewood in the quarterfinals on Tuesday. North Arlington, the 10th seed in North 2, Group 1, was defeated by seventh-seeded Cedar Grove, 25-12, 25-18 in the first round on Friday. Nutley, seeded 13th in North 2, Group 3, was defeated 257, 25-17 by Cranford in the first round on Saturday.

STARGARDT DISEASE

Stargardt disease is an inherited type of macular degeneration that is diagnosed in childhood or adolescence; it is sometimes re ferred to as juvenile or early onset macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is a type of retinal disease that causes central vision loss because of the absence of photoreceptor cells in the macula. Stargardt disease may also affect the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), a layer of cells that sup ports photoreceptors. An ophthal mologist diagnosing Stargardt disease will look for yellow flecks in the RPE. These are lipofuscin deposits, a byproduct of retinal cell activity that accumulates abnor mally in Stargardt disease patients. Since vision loss is common with many eye diseases, it’s crucial to seek diagnosis as soon as vision

changes occur.

Scientists are trying to find more effective ways of treat ing Stargardt disease. Promising clinical trials include gene therapy and drug therapy. For example, scientists are investigating a popular diabetes drug known as metformin which has the potential to slow down vision loss. Stem cell therapy has also been suggested as a potential remedy for Stargardt disease. Please call our office at 201-896-0096 to schedule an eye exam. We are located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.

P.S. A diagnosis of Stargardt disease through genetic testing can help patients qualify for participation in clinical trials for new treatments.

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

Raefski leads Kearny to state tournament victory with dreams of more to come

The first half horn sounded and Paige Raefski walked off the field with her Kearny girls’ soccer team trailing 1-0 at Livingston in the North 1, Group 4 quarterfinals. At that point, there was potentially just 40 minutes left in her stellar high school career. Raefski, however, had other ideas.

“Stepping off the field at halftime I really thought to myself how this can’t be the end here. This is not going to be the last game of my senior year,” Raefski said. “I knew that our team still had so much to do and we still have a whole story to write so it wasn’t going to end on a 1-0 penalty against Livingston.”

Raefski ensured that this story’s final chapter would not be that morning. First, she assisted on Emily Horvaht’s game-tying goal. Then, with 20 minutes left, Raefski scored the game-winning goal in the Kardinals’ 3-1 victory.

Raefski, who also had two goals and three assists in Thursday’s first round win

over Fair Lawn, has been selected as The Observer Athlete of the Week.

The senior strike has recorded a point in five consecutive games, posting four goals and eight assists during the streak, starting with a goal and an assist in the Hudson County Tournament semifinals on Oct. 15.

“She is definitely on fire right now and that’s a great thing for us right now,” Kearny coach Michael Sylvia said. “Paige is really someone who is a huge part of our attack because she is so good at both finishing and playmaking.”

“It definitely does feel like I’m playing at my best right now,” said Raefski. “I know what I’m working for. This season from the beginning until now, I feel like the improvement has been a lot.”

Perhaps the biggest area of improvement has come with the development of her left foot. Two of her goals this state tournament have come on leftfooted shots.

On Saturday, Raefski

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Photo by Jason Bernstein Paige Raefski

received a through ball from Olivia Covello and, on a 1v1 with the keeper, used her left foot to score the winning goal.

“I saw (Olivia) play a through ball right through the two defenders on Livingston and I just knew that was the ball I needed to work for. I needed to sprint to that ball and give it 110%,” Raefski said.

“I got to the ball and it was a 1v1 between the goalie and I. I

pushed the ball to my left foot, which is my weaker foot, but I knew at that moment that was what I needed to do. I put it right between the goal and the goalie, slid it right in and it went into the back of the net.”

Said Sylvia, “it really makes her so unpredictable because she can use both feet, finish and create with both her left and her right.”

Raefski has 10 goals and 13 assists on the season, but her impact goes well beyond the numbers, particularly in light of all the injuries Kearny has endured this season.

At one point, when the injuries were at their worst, Raefski was the only one of the Kardinals’ four senior captains healthy enough to play in the middle of the season when a short-handed Kearny squad dropped five games in a row.

“I knew that I had to step up as a captain because we were missing so many girls,” said Raefski about that stretch where fellow captains

Horvaht, Maci Covello and Julia Araujo were all sidelined. “I had to get it into everybody’s head that we were going to come back from this and we just need to keep working for this, even though things weren’t going in our favor.

“I had to tell myself that this is not the end. There’s still so many more games to play and that there’s still so much more hard work to put out on the field.”

A four-year varsity player, Raefski has 37 goals and 33 assists for the Kardinals. She is currently uncommitted, but definitely intends to play soccer in college. Wherever Raefski goes, she’s sure to make an impact, both on and off the field.

“Paige is our standard on how to conduct yourself on the field,” Sylvia said. “How competitive she is, how she’s able to produce in big moments, how she stays calm under the pressure, how tough and resilient she is.”

Dr. Prakash J. Doshi

Dr. Hector Aguilar

that I love Kearny. It is a town that has given me so much. I got a great education, played sports, made lifelong friends and where my parents built their lives after being in this country for a few years. It’s my home and I want to make sure many more generations do so by working with the mayor and the rest of the team.

But I also believe I will be effective in the role. For the past 12 years, I have been very involved with HellenicAmerican advocacy issues doing the work in Washington D.C. and locally. In the 12 years since, I have learned about public policy, coalition building, politics and have slowly built relationships with people in this space. With all of this collective experience and love for our town, I believe it will help me in this elected role if I win in November.

n

Most of my volunteer activities have been limited for the past eight years as I was starting and scaling my business. But as a young man these past few years, aside from my advocacy work I serve on the Board of Directors for the Cyprus-US chamber of Commerce. That has been a great opportunity that has given me a ton of experience.

I was able to be one of the founders of a young professional group, which has been successful in helping create business opportunities between members and helped other members find jobs. That is impactful in many people’s careers and lives.

n

The most urgent goal is to work with Mayor Santos and the Council on the parking problems. They got the ball rolling and I want to make sure we create a town wide plan

that addresses the problem in an efficient way tailored to the circumstances and solutions needed by each neighborhood as best as we can.

Beyond that, I have two key goals. My first goal is work with our local businesses, our mom and pop shops, and see where the levers of government, through policy and grants can make an impact for them. As a small business owner myself, I believe I can connect with our small business owners due to our shared experience and really understand their needs.

From there, I can work with the Mayor and Council, other government agencies, and the local community to help bring the resources that will deepen the vibrant business environment in Kearny that the Mayor and the Council have already started.

The second priority for me will be to work with the team on growing e-government. From speaking to members of the council, there is an understanding that the COVID-19 pandemic shifted our behaviors and expectations of how the local government interacts and serves its residents. As a business person I also understand that efficient processes internally in any organization helps with freeing up valuable resources and provides better outcomes.

n

A couple areas that distinguish me, include my business experience and my involvement on a state and national level with community leaders on Hellenic-American policy issues and initiatives. I know what it takes to get things done especially when surrounded with people who have many different views than your own.

The Fourth Ward is a diversely populated area. Residents from all walks of life reside here. I’ve been very fortunate to have the opportunity to campaign door to door for this council seat, so I have seen that diversity firsthand.

As I go door to door, it reaffirms my belief that to be an effective representative, a policy maker or problem solver, it is not who speaks the loudest or talks over people who are not in agreement. To be effective you need to bring your expertise and ideas, your unique and individual perspective and then you stop talking and you listen to the residents. This is the kind of representation that I believe in and one I will be for all the residents of the Fourth Ward.

n

As a business owner, I know that business is about serving our customers and the community, but it is also about competition. So am I content? Not really, because every day we need to compete against communities that are doing the same work. But I am happy with our commitment.

Mayor Santos and the Council have done a tremendous job in rebuilding our Passaic Avenue shopping district, but have done it in a responsible way. And these new businesses serve our community, provide jobs and

bring revenue to our town. But we understand as a team we have more work to do, and will always have more work to do. Midland Avenue, Elm Street and Davis Avenue will be my biggest priority if elected. We have so much potential to transform that part of town that will bring foot traffic and appeal to the area. That will provide a boost to the current businesses, and attract more entrepreneurs to make Kearny and the Fourth Ward their home and provide revenue to help stabilize the tax base.

n

We have so many great eateries (yes, in support of my heritage I would be remiss if I did not mention The Greeks, a place I’ve been going to since I was kid), serving all kinds of delicious food, desserts and coffees. One of my favorite bagel shops is the Bagel Corner.

My favorite thing to do is get bagels from there, take them to a meeting in NYC, and have folks comment how great the bagels are. Then I tell them that Kearny bagels are best and quite honestly that Kearny is the best.

n

On Tuesday, Nov. 8, you will vote on who will represent you. I come to this moment as a small business owner, advocate and community leader whose collective experience, and vision for our town, will serve the Fourth Ward with integrity and effectiveness.

As a first-generation American, I also understand the need to keep our town safe and inclusive for all, and will work hard to do so. I want our town to continue evolving to continue to be a special place where people can plant roots in our town and a place where residents that have been here for generations will continue to call this place home.

But keeping Kearny a special

place does not happen by accident. It takes a team with great public servants to make that happen. I am proud to be on the Santos Team. I will add my voice to Town Hall as an independent thinker, to lift up our ward’s voice and deliver to our community. So on Tuesday, Nov. 8, I ask that you consider me for Fourth Ward Council and vote Line “B.” Thank you.

n North Arlington Lynette Cavadas *

One of my proudest accomplishments, so far, was bringing a sensory-friendly section to our Memorial Day Parade. Our specialneeds community is very near to my heart and making our community inclusive has become a passion of mine. There is still so much work to be done for our residents who have special needs and I look forward to working with our local organizations to give our residents equal opportunities.

n

There have been so many accomplishments over the past few years, but the one that stands out above the rest is our ability to continue to keep our municipal taxes at a zero increase. As we watch prices rise on everything around us, our residents can take some comfort in knowing that our municipal taxes will remain stable another year.

n

Not so much a regret but my term as a Councilwoman included the COVID shutdown. I am a doer and go- getter so to have things shift and slowdown was difficult. I am so excited that our community is back up and running and truly flourishing.

n

I have served a threeyear term as a councilwoman for North Arlington. I have been a liaison to our Board of Health, Board of Education, Library Board, Recreational Department, Access for All and Municipal Alliance. I have had the pleasure of establishing our community garden and enjoy volunteering to run programs like Pokémon Trading night in the library. I am currently on the E-Board for the North Arlington Jr. Vikings football and cheerleading.

n

THEODOROPOULOS

CAVADAS

Junior Vikings football squads sweep WERC Warriors RECREATION FOOTBALL

The North Arlington Jr Vikings Football program took the field Oct. 8 against the WERC Warriors of Wallington/East Rutherford/ Carlstadt.

The day kicked off at the Mighty Mite level. NA and WERC played a hard fought game.

Liam Rivas and Didier Aristizabal both scored touchdowns for North Ar lington. This level is more developmental so there is no score posted.

The pee wee game (grades 3 and 4) was next and North Arlington wasted no time getting started and basically dominating the game. Galileo Glass ran all over the War riors defense to the tune of 200 yards rushing and four touchdowns.

Leandro Alves added a 50 yard TD and led the team in tackles as NA rolled to a 32-13 win.

The junior game (grades 5 & 6) started off with running back Noah Vargas darting 80 yards for the opening score, the first of his three touch downs.

Quarterback Ricky Lopes add a rushing TD and three PAT conversations. Joshua Figueroa finished the scor ing as he received the option pitch from Vargas and took it

to the house. NA won 33-0.

The final game of the night was the seniors (grades 7 & 8).

North Arlington’s start ing lineup is loaded with eighth-graders — 11 on offense and 10 on defense to be exact — as defensive tackle Lucas Alvarado is the only starting seventh-grader.

Quarterback Shane Crudele rushed for the first two touchdowns then went to air completing 7 out of 8 at tempts for 266 yards and two touchdowns.

His main target was Eli Gonzalez, who had four receptions and two touch downs for 166 yards receiv ing. Ronald Rosario added 75 yards rushing.

On defense, the Vikings posted its third shutout in five games.

Standouts were Allen Frias who had three solo tackles and seven assists, Julian Castanheira with one sack and five assists and Eli Gonzalez who had seven solo tackles, three assists and two sacks.

NA won 30-0 and improved to 4-1 on the season.

This puppy knows how to deliver The Observer

took place Saturday, Oct.

Park and

the pooch

Enterprise Zone puts on, under the leadership of director John Peneda and Linda Kraus D’Isa.

WILFRED ARMITAGE & WIGGINS

Photo by Barbara B. Goldberg

The TRUE choice for Mayor of Harrison is Mayor James A. Fife

Vote Column B - The ‘True’ Harrison Democratic Party

The TRUTH:

4 During Mayor Fife’s 25 year TENURE (Mayor/HRA), nearly 100 acres of contaminated industrial land was safely cleaned and turned into Tax-Paying developments — stabilizing taxes and protecting the HEALTH of all Harrison residents. Mayor Fife personally chaired the Vo-Toys mercury contamination meetings, which resulted in complete remediation of that site. The opposition never bothered to attend even one of these important meetings.

4 Using grant funds and money from developers, Mayor Fife spearheaded the purchase of 8 acres of formerly contaminated PSE&G land for a multi-purpose open space park (including a large dog park). Construction is starting this fall and it will be amazing!

4 Under Mayor Fife’s watch, EVERY recreation facility in Harrison has been either completely rebuilt or renovated to new — all at zero cost to residents.

4 Under Mayor Fife’s leadership, the Police and Fire Departments have grown by over 50%, including new state-of-the-art equipment to protect all Harrisonians — without raising taxes or borrowing money. Safety is priority one!

4 Mayor Fife has an impeccable record of public service as an EDUCATOR, PRINCIPAL and TRUSTEE of many non-profit organizations, including the Harrison Board of Education, the Hudson County Schools of Technology Board of Education, the Hudson County Community College Board and Trustee at St. Michael’s Hospital in Newark. He also has the support of many Labor Unions including Laborers Local #472. He has never been disciplined or suspended.

The LIES:

6 The opposition wants you to believe that Mayor Fife gave the US EPA permission to dump sludge in Harrison. That is a LIE! This “story” was concocted by a Montclair attorney and long-time crony of the opposition, and has no basis in fact. The Fife administration would NEVER allow any property in Harrison to be contaminated, period!

6 The opposition claims that the PSE&G site was slated for “green space” and that Mayor Fife changed that. That is a LIE! While the PSE&G site is privately-owned, Mayor Fife is seeking affordable housing and office space, along with a large open space recreation area.

6 The opposition is spinning fairytales that he wrote $20M in grant funds that were somehow “suppressed.” That is a LIE! Mayor Fife’s administration has in fact secured numerous grants that have been wisely used to benefit all Harrisonians. The opposition cannot point to even one.

6 The opposition claims it saved the Harrison Fire Department. That is a LIE! The Mayor Fife administration worked closely with the NJ Department of Community Affairs to broker a deal which not only prevented a takeover, but also funded the Fire Department’s expansion to historic levels.

DON’T be LIED to by out-of-town attorneys from Montclair and people who cannot tell the truth.

Paid for by Mayor Fife Campaign 2022, Gregory Kowalski, Treasurer

— VOTE for Mayor Fife and the

“THE TRUE CHOICE”

It is a fairly difficult question, since I know next to nothing about our opponent. That alone, speaks volumes. We live in a wonderful tight-knit community where we have the ability to be present and involved on so many levels. I can speak for myself when I let everyone know that I will continue to be present, accessible and an active member in my community. I plan to remain a proud resident of North Arlington for a long time and my driving force will always be to continue being visible and active in moving our Borough forward and doing what’s right for our residents and our business owners.

n

Being content can sometimes lead to being complacent. There is always room for improvement and that is what sets our mayor and Council apart from others. We are constantly looking at ways to improve and help our businesses thrive. We continuously encourage our businesses to take pride and make upgrades to continue to improve the aesthetics of our shopping district. We pride ourselves on shopping local and supporting our small businesses.

n North Arlington is truly a wonderful place to live and raise a family. When I think about my favorite places to frequent the list could go on forever. There aren’t too many towns that can say they have the accessibility that we do. Everything you could possibly want, or need is in walking distance. That is what drew me to this beautiful Borough.

n

I have an undeniable love and connection to our borough and its residents. To be a councilwoman for North Arlington has been an honor. My proven record of hard work and dedication should be an indication of more to come. I’m confident the voters of North Arlington are well informed and know what is best for everyone. I look forward to continuing to serve my community and residents for years to come.

Kirk Del Russo *

The many achievements made over the past four years were made as a collective group of like-minded individuals. We currently have such a well-rounded, cohesive group serving the great people of North Arlington. The mayor and Council take so much pride in making sure every great idea and event is carried out to the fullest.

The mayor has entrusted me as the council liaison to our senior citizens. My initial goals were to have more programs and initiatives formed to better serve them. I envisioned many community outings, and meetings in the park.

During COVID, the seniors stopped meeting regularly and missed out on quite a bit. I worked with the Senior Club president to help, whenever possible, to make their meetings safer and easier. We made sure each of our seniors had the latest information and that they knew how to arrange transportation to pharmacies and that they had access to vaccinations. We were even able to organize a few outdoor, park meetings during the slow virus seasons.

Once the COVID restrictions were lifted, my first goal was to get the trips started, so Mayor Pronti and I organized a group outing to Atlantic City, which proved to be a huge success. Hopefully everything stays calm and we can look forward to many more outings.

n

Where do I begin with the accomplishments made by this governing body? They have been amazing moving our Borough forward. The biggest impacts would have to be: Our ability to improve every area of government, improve the quality of life in North Arlington, expand our open spaces, promote our town, raise the pride and add art and culture all while not raising the municipal property taxes a single dollar over that time.

n

My biggest regret is not having had an opportunity to serve this community earlier in life. I was born and raised in North Arlington and would have been able to provide knowledge and historical

facts much earlier than I am currently able to do. I am using this time to make up for those years and hope to start the North Arlington Historical Society under my next term.

n

Liaison to DPW & Finance Committee; Chairman of Seniors and Veterans Affairs.

n

Being born and raised in North Arlington gives me the pride to say I am better served, but the accomplishments I have made throughout my life and as a Councilman as well as Council Vice President stand out above everything. I have proven to be available when needed and am a visible, recognizable, approachable asset to our residents.

n

There is always room for improvement. Clearly, we have made positive changes and the improvements are outstanding, but we must keep moving forward with our plans to improve the parking situation in our south end and at the same time, assist the residents along the Belleville Pike with the overflow that affects them.

Small businesses are finally able to be sustainable in North Arlington, where in the past only a few of our longtime businesses were able to survive. Being a former small business owner, I have the mindset to be able to reach out and identify the important practices and how to avoid certain downfalls and provide helpful solutions to improve.

n

Our local places seem to get better and better every step of the way. From businesses to athletic complexes, to the municipal building. I frequent our local businesses and eateries quite often. I feel it is important to interact with them to get a feel or heartbeat for what they need to prosper.

n Mayor Pronti has assembled a fantastic team. We all work very well together and our collective goal is to continue to make North Arlington the best place to live, work, raise a family and retire. I look forward to the opportunity in the next three years to continue to serve our residents. I am thankful for the opportunities I have had and look forward to continuing on this journey of completing what we have started. I am dedicated and devoted to this borough 24-

7/365 days a year.

Our community has never looked better or been in a better financial state. We have kept the municipal portion of our borough taxes at 0% for the sixth-straight year. Help us keep the positive momentum and vibe going!

If you like what you see, if you like the direction the borough is going in, the financial stability, the sense of community we have brought back, the positive impact the Pronti Team has achieved, then support us by voting for us Nov. 8. Thank you!

DEL RUSSO

Observer Classifieds

Building Inspector/Building Subcode Official

time/Part Time provisional position.

direction of the Construction Official, is responsible for administering the Building Subcode within the jurisdiction in accordance with the State Uniform Construction Code (UCC). Responsibilities will include building plan review and inspection of all construction projects to ensure compliance with approved plans, specifications, and the provisions of the UCC. Additional duties would include general code enforcement, property maintenance, zoning, and resale inspections as needed. Valid NJ driver’s license and HHS license required. NJ CSC title code and job description https://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/05048.htm 35 hours per week. Salary Commensurate with experience with full benefit package for Full Time Status. Position is provisional and subject to the Civil Service exam process. Application Deadline is November 30, 2022. The Town reserves the right to hire a qualified candidate before the end of the advertisement period see application here: https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 25W04

KEARNY 2 bedroom apartment on Kearny Ave. Must have good credit. No Pets. $1,500/ mth plus utilities. Leave detailed message (551)253-4149 25W03

GARAGE FOR RENT

N.ARLINGTON

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(973)303-5535

Salter

Community Service Aide Part-time Temporary Community Service Aide to work with Kearny Prevention Coalition team. Performs a variety of routine field and office work involved in the Program.

Must have basic office skills, bi-lingual Spanish Preferred. College Graduate in one of the social sciences. Some Travel involved Monday-Friday approximately 10 hours per week Hours may vary Must possess a valid NJ driver’s license. Knowledge of Federal Drug Free Community or Completion of CADCA’s National Coalition Academy Preferred. $15,000 per year. Application available on line at www.kearnynj.org application deadline 11/22/22.

The following residential preferences shall apply:

1. Residents of the Town of Kearny and the City of Newark; 2. Residents of Hudson and Essex Counties;

3. Residents of the State of New Jersey. Proof of residency is required: applicants shall provide copies of the first page (only) of the last three (3) 1040 tax returns with the financial data redacted and a Government issued photo identification card (i.e. current NJ Driver’s License) 25W03

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IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA (CIVIL DIVISION)

FREDERICK MUTUAL INSURANCE CO., Plaintiff v. EVERTON ARAJUO; TITAN FRAMING COMPANY, INC.;

CONTRACTOR CORP.; AND LOTT BUILDERS, LTD., Defendants. Docket No. 2:22-CV-1641

You are hereby notified that

the United States

CONTRACTOR CORP

April 28, 2022,

the

instituted

the Eastern District of

action for

in which

was

have been

on June 10,

HARRISON

BELLEVILLE

KEARNY

HARRISON 3 bedrooms

Observer Classifieds

KPD: Two men charged with stabbing outside Kearny pub & one is released, afterward, WITHOUT BAIL

By Capt. Timothy Wagner Kearny Police Department

On Oct. 20 at 2:08 a.m., Officer Anthony Oliveira and sev eral back-up officers were dispatched to a donnybrook at the Donegal Saloon that escalated into a stabbing. Responding officers found a 32-year-old Kearny man seated inside the saloon with anoth er man holding pressure to a stab wound to the victim’s abdomen.

Officers began packing the wound

with gauze until EMS took over and transported the victim to University Hospital, Newark, where he was last reported in stable condition.

Bar-goers told officers two known men entered the bar just before clos ing and “started trouble” with other patrons.

The men were asked to leave and were escorted out by at least two men (patrons) as the bartender locked the door for closing. A few minutes later, the victim alerted the bartender he had been stabbed

outside.

Officer Danny Maganinho broad cast a description of a vehicle he saw speeding from the scene.

Officer Luis Cazares quickly found the suspected vehicle and pulled it over at Belleville Turnpike and Passaic Avenue. After further inves tigation, Officer Cazares arrested the two occupants in connection with the Donegal affray.

Officers charged Angel N. “Cook ie” Rodriguez Jr., 27, of Newark, with aggravated assault, conspiracy

(to commit aggravated assault) and weapon possession offenses.

Due to his computerized pub lic-safety assessment score, a derivative of criminal justice reform law, the alleged stabber was released with a summons.

Jorge E. Gonzalez, 34, of North Ar lington, was charged with conspira cy (to commit aggravated assault).

Due to his computerized public safety assessment score, Gonzalez held on a warrant at the Hudson County jail.

improved the hospital’s infrastructure with an exterior facelift, new HVAC system and new elevators — all with the intention of improving revenue streams.

Still, union members say, the hospital has failed to give equal attention to its nursing personnel and, as a consequence, to the care of its patient population.

Tonya Howard, who has worked 24 years at Clara Maass, most recently in the ICU, said that “things have gotten demonstratively worse” since the onset of the pandemic. “We’ve been losing nurses in droves … we’ve lost 15 to 20 on my unit alone.”

Every nursing unit, from the OR, recovery and telemetry, has experienced similar dropoffs, Howard said, which the hospital has sought to fill by contracting with “agency” or “travel” nurses.

Problem with that, suggested Raquel Casuple, a 15-year Clara Maass R.N. assigned to the

transitional care unit, is they tend to “float from one unit to another … and may not be equal to our skill set.”

Daphnee Desire, who has spent the past two years in the transitional care unit, added: “Our concerns about patient care ratio are not being heard” by hospital administration.

Nor are administrators responding to nurses’ pay scales, Howard said.

“We want pay commensurate with experience,” Casuple added.

According to www. nursejournal.com, a survey of current pay levels for New Jersey shows the average R.N. salary in the state to be $89,690, with an average hourly rate of $43.12.

There is no set salary guide for Clara Maass nursing staff, according to the three nurses, and that omission is something they hope can be remedied with a union contract.

Typically, they said, the hospital has provided modest pay adjustments of “less than a dollar an hour” each year, although no adjustments have been made this hear, they

noted.

Casuple described the nurses’ health benefits package as “atrocious,” so the union will be looking for improvements in that area as well, she said.

As of last week, no negotiation sessions with the hospital have been scheduled and, in the meantime, Zoom meetings with fellow nurses are being scheduled to get input from the membership about issues to be discussed with hospital managers at the bargaining table, the trio said.

In a prepared statement, Mary Ellen Clyne, president/ CEO of the hospital, said administrators “acknowledge and respect the right of our nursing staff to decide on whether or not union representation is in their best long- and short-term interest.

“We will do everything we can to continue to make the hospital the best possible workplace it can be. Working together, collegially, with all our health care professionals, we will continue to advance our health care mission across our community.”

Kearny man sentenced for his role in drive-thru drug ring, Attorney General says

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

AKearny man was one of four sen tenced after they were convicted in a narcotics trafficking ring that operated in a neighborhood near I-78 in Newark, where they sold drugs to motorists exiting the highway to make “drive-through” purchas es of heroin, Attorney General Matthew Platkin said.

The illegal ring was dismantled by New Jersey State Police in 2018.

The four pleaded guilty for their roles in the scheme on May 2, 2022.

In a hearing Sept. 9, 2022, Dashon Cole man, 40, of Kearny, was sentenced to an aggre gate term of 14 years in state prison, including a

42-month period of parole ineligibility.

He pleaded guilty to first-degree possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) with intent to distribute and second-degree unlawful possession of an assault weapon.

The four men were ar rested in December 2018, following “Operation Drive-Through” investiga tion targeting a drug dis tribution operation based on Ridgewood Avenue in Newark.

The investigation resulted in the seizure of two AR-15 assault rifles, 10 handguns, a tactical shotgun, seven large capacity ammunition magazines, over 100,000 bags of heroin, more than a kilogram of crack/ powder cocaine and more than $195,000 in cash.