e-Newspaper for Jan. 18, 2023

Two more suspects charged in Exxon ATM burglary, KPD says

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

Two additional suspects in the brazen Nov. 29 smash-and-grab burglary of an ATM at the Kearny Avenue Exxon station have been charged in connection to the crime, Det. John Fabula, the investigating officer, said.

Justin McKinney, 18, of Woodbridge, formerly of Kearny, has been charged on a warrant complaint with burglary, theft, conspiracy to commit burglary, criminal mischief and receiving stolen property. Eliezer Velez, 19, of Newark, has been charged on a summons complaint with burglary, theft, conspiracy to commit burglary and receiving stolen property.

The arrest of these two follows the arrest of Ruben

North Arlington Mayor Daniel H. Pronti, left, took his second oath of office last week, having been sworn-in by former GOP gubernatorial candidate and Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, second from right. Also taking oaths were Councilmembers Lynette Cavadas and Kirk Del Russo. Read Pronti’s inaugural address on Pages

Photo courtesy of Daniel H. Pronti

Benefit games raise $3K for Mullins, who has been diagnosed with Leukemia

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By Daniel H. Pronti North Arlington Mayor

Editor’s note: The following is Mayor Daniel H. Pronti’s second inaugural address to the people of North Arlington, delivered last week.

Good evening and welcome to our 2023 annual Reorganization Meeting.

I first have to thank the voters of North Arlington for showing their overwhelming support for my team and for allowing us to prevail by such large numbers in this past election.

Thanks must go out to my wife Tammy and my daughter Alessandra, who may never get used to me interrupting our family time by walking out of events to deal with issues facing our town; also to my dad, who can be found every Election Day, at Jefferson School, handing out my literature, proudly telling the voters that his son is the Mayor. And to my in-laws, who drove up tonight to be a part of this event.

My entire Council as well as my Council President, Mario Karcic, who lately seems to know my reactions before I do.

Jimmy Bocchino, who covers more ground in North Arlington on a daily basis than most

Uber drivers.

Lenny Aluotto, our dedicated County Committee Chairman, who has been assembling a dedicated committee over the past few years, and our club President, Mike Wengrin.

Having such a great support group definitely lightens the burden of an election.

This year, while campaigning, I found that there were several residents who recently became United States citizens and were first-time voters who were excited to cast their very first vote ever for me. That means a lot when you think about it. Some of those residents are even here in the audience today.

Over the course of any campaign, we get to speak with many people. During this year’s campaign, we met quite a few residents who felt the need to tell us how they spent their whole voting lives blindly voting straight down party lines for no particular reason at all, beside the fact that they were expected to vote for a certain party, or because it is what they always did. These people were proud to let us know that they were no longer following that rule. They agreed that they are tired of hearing the same old story, the same complaints, and

SECOND

never seeing changes. They see results from the Pronti Team and they are believers.

For the time being, there are still people who declare themselves Democrats and Republicans, but let us not forget, first and foremost, we are ALL Americans, we are all neighbors living in the good state of New Jersey and the always improving Borough of North Arlington and we must do what is best here in our own back yards for the progress to continue.

It is refreshing to see that some voters are abandoning the antiquated “party identity” system and voting for the person who best serves their needs and who is dedicated to their best interests.

I am so proud to have been administered my oath of office tonight, by the next governor of the state of New Jersey, Jack Ciattarelli. Thank you Jack for taking the time to once again make the Borough of North Arlington a priority. We currently have county, district and state officials who couldn’t find us on a map. It’s encouraging to see the support.

We are here tonight to lay out our vision for the upcoming year and beyond. The Pronti

administration has had a very successful first four years. My first term as Mayor showed the residents what we, as a governing body, can do as a team. We go out and live with our people. We don’t live above our people. We take the time to see, feel and hear the issues facing our residents and we make the necessary changes to improve on them.

We are a group of free-thinkers. We don’t accept the “We’ve never done it that way before” way of running a local government.

We work hand-in hand with our highly capable borough employees.

Our borough administrator and our borough clerk are such a huge part of what this community sees, day in and day out.

Our department heads, whom I meet with regularly, are all on board with our visions and do what it takes to make things happen.

As with any successful community, there are those who volunteer their time to make things better. Up front we have our fire department, NAVES and CERT, but we also have our coaches, our PTA Parents, each of our boards: zoning, planning, library, recreation, health.

We have our senior clubs, the VFW, American Legion, Knights of Columbus, the

Elks etc.

Most of these are people who simply CARE and do what it takes to make things better.

We have made quite a few changes and brought more new, fresh ideas into our community. Over that same span of time, property taxes were not raised a dime.

That is an accomplishment that is very seldom surpassed.

This team, as we call ourselves, has dedicated our time to rejuvenate a once stale North Arlington that was left playing “catch-up” by previous administrations. We have been doing what we can to turn it into a vibrant, more attractive community.

We set out to not only beautify our town, but to make it more healthy, educational and visitor-friendly. We have begun by cleaning up many portions of town that were once overlooked. Over the next 4 years, we will be focusing on several target areas along River Road, Schuyler Avenue and the Belleville Turnpike.

We will continue making positive strides toward bringing long overdue senior housing to North Arlington. We currently have plans, drawings and several builders who are interested in this project. We could have

LOOKS AHEAD TO NEXT 4 YEARS

Quality of life improvements continue to be a priority.

easily had something in place by now, but we will not approve a project unless we believe in its long term success.

We are very particular when it comes to our seniors.

Many people will be happy to hear that our tree replenishment program will continue. We have now planted over 600 trees under my Mayor’s Beautification Program.

Under this program, we are working with state and federal agencies to ensure our roads are well kept; our postal boxes are painted; and our street signs are in good shape and visible.

We will continue making our roadways safer, by implementing ALL-WAY STOP intersections, speed calming devices and more identifiable road markings.

I’ve been noticing more and more that improvements are contagious. While we stepped up our commitment to make North Arlington a more visibly pleasing location, we noticed others doing the same.

We are seeing businesses changing their signage, upgrading their awnings, making their storefronts more appealing.

We are also seeing Queen of Peace Church undergo their own upgrades. Upgrades to the sire and their grounds have definitely caught my attention.

Holy Cross Cemetery, which is the most visited business in North Arlington, is now expanding their mausoleum along the section most visible from Ridge Road. This will also help beautify our main thoroughfare.

The North Arlington Board of Education has been making upgrades to their buildings and grounds and are doing their part to improve the safety of our children, while enhancing the education our children need to be successful members of society. We look forward to working with them to ensure everything is carried out the most appropriate way.

Attracting new businesses and new residents to Ridge Road has been a tremendous success story. Our recreation programs have never been better. Our fields and facilities are second to none, as we continue to improve outdoor recreational areas for everyone: children, adults and seniors.

We have been demonstrating that we understand the need to preserve the balance between a lively business community and well-kept residential neighborhoods. Redevelopment is an essential component when increasing tax revenues, adding job opportunities, attracting visitors and if done correctly, adding to the friendliness to our environment. We want to keep our property values high while keeping our taxes as stable as possible.

The Borough of North Arlington is teaching me as I am progressing. I feel I am better equipped for this job, today than I was 4 years ago, and I am excited for more improvements. One important thing that people in political positions have to remember is that you are here representing not only the best interests of the people, but the opinions and beliefs of those people. There will never be a situation where everyone is in total agreement and the difficult decisions will have to be made from time to time. Once a decision is made, we must try our best to let everyone know and understand why it was made.

It has been an absolute honor serving our residents as both Councilman and as Mayor. I continue to be proud of our accomplishments, our efforts and the ability of our residents to work together toward the common goal of constant improvement.

I will remain committed to working hard, over the next four years, to keep North Arlington a wonderful community.

Photo courtesy of Dan Pronti

daughter, Alessandra.

By Ron Leir ronleir423@gmail.com

The Lincoln Cinema property on Kearny Avenue, stuck in a time warp for nearly the last eight years, has finally been sold — to an Essex County tradesman looking to redevelop the site primarily for residential use.

But parking issues — or, more to the point, the lack of parking — could pose problems for the projected development, town officials say.

George’s Theater, LLC, of Newark, purchased the old movie theater and attached retail space off Elizabeth Avenue in mid-September 2022 for $975,000, according to the deed recording the transaction.

The property’s market value was listed at $1,106,684.

Shallan Haddad, listed as the LLC’s registered agent, is president of Haddad Plumbing & Heating Inc., 1223 Broad St., Newark, and he told The Observer he’s consulting with an attorney experienced in real-estate matters what options may be open to him in pitching a new use for the property.

LINCOLN FINALLY SOLD

Haddad, who has had exploratory talks about the property’s future use with town administrator Stephen Marks and town attorney James Bruno, said his intent is to convert the theater to apartments with an outdoor patio and some type of rooftop amenity.

At this point, he said he’s projecting “20 to 24” residential units.

He said he’d also look to fill the currently empty ground-

floor spaces with retail tenants, possibly an eatery in one section.

“With all the redevelopment that’s been going on along that main street (Ridge Road in neighboring North Arlington), it’s going to overflow into Kearny,” Haddad predicted. “People are going to need a place to live.”

Because he wants to keep his project within the existing footprint of the theater property — which, according

to town records, sits on a lot of 13,248 square feet — Haddad acknowledged, “the only possible drawback would be parking.”

With the theater property bordering several single-family homes, Haddad said it would be tough to create on-site surface parking to accommodate new residents and retail customers. Whether any below-ground parking space could be carved out also seems doubtful, he said.

If and when Haddad is ready to present a set of blueprints for review by the town — either the Planning Board for site plan review or the Zoning Board of Adjustment for possible variances — that is when the parking dilemma would likely be considered.

How the former theater, built in 1935, was permitted to operate without parking, one may well wonder. It closed in fall 2015. Currently, the town pockets $26,355 a year in annual tax revenues from the property based on an assessment of $250,000, according to municipal tax records.

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Asked if he’d contemplated restoration of the cinema, Haddad said he gave the idea some thought, “but I’m a plumber,” with no prior experience in running a movie theater. “I’m definitely not going to leave (the building) empty,” he said.

Haddad said he plans to continue to maintain his Newark plumbing business and participate in the city’s redevelopment of the Broad Street business district.

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As COVID cases decrease, Pathways’ needs grow

By Alvin Cox Pathways Executive Director

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to update everyone on how things are progressing at Pathways to Independence, Inc. Our last feature article was April 2020, almost three years ago, at the height of the pandemic, when all our programs were temporarily closed.

This year, Pathways will be celebrating 45 years of providing support to adults with disabilities who reside in Hudson, Bergen, Essex and surrounding counties and we are still going strong. We are open but things are not the same.

Prior to the COVID closure, Pathways on a daily basis provided support to over 150 adults with disabilities attending daily, learning new skills to help them to live with greater independence, at home, in the community and at work.

Today, with Pathways being fully open, we have approximately 100 adults with disabilities receiving daily support. The main focus continues to be for the health and safety of everyone, so Pathways continues to practice safety precautions for all staff and consumers.

Even though some parents are still hesitant in sending their family members back to the program, we continue to encourage them so they don’t lose independent living/work skills they have developed throughout the years.

Additionally, Pathways is accepting new consumers into our adult-training and

workshop programs. In many cases we also provide round trip transportation services.

State funding throughout the agency has declined due to lack of attendance, in our fee for service adult training program. If consumers don’t attend the program, we cannot bill for support, thus funding to the agency is reduced.

This is one of the reasons fundraising activities are so important to Pathways. Last year Pathways had its 20th Annual Walk-A-Thon/Tricky Tray which was a huge success and raised over $32,000 to benefit all the programs.

Our next Walk-A-Thon is scheduled for Sept. 23, 2023. If you would like to be a sponsor and would like to donate tricky tray items, contact Pathways at (201) 997-6155. Our first fundraiser of this year, our Annual Appeal, will begin next month through April 2023.

Pathways’ Annual Appeal solicits donations, in which families, businesses and community partners make monetary contributions. All funds received benefit Pathways programs.

Pathways is excited to start two new programs which were scheduled to kick off prior to the pandemic.

First, we are looking to begin an After-Hours Program, which will provide additional support to adults with disabilities from the hours of 3 to 6 p.m. Also, a Saturday recreation program, which will provide activities for consumers to include bowling, going to the mall, movies, etc. These activities will enable the adults with disabilities to be more active in

their communities during on weekends.

Staffing has and continues to be a major issue, which we are working very diligently to resolve. Prior to the pandemic, Pathways had over 70 full- and part-time staff. We currently have 55 staff members. Pathways has just raised the salaries for all positions in hopes to attract greater talent.

For all Pathways programs, we are looking for caring and patient staff. We currently are recruiting full/part-time supervisors, direct support professionals, van drivers and van aides. Pathways is looking to hire people with a desire and motivation to assist those individuals who require additional support. Working at Pathways can be challenging and rewarding and you might be the right candidate for the position.

In conclusion, a consumer in our workshop program said: “I love coming to Pathways, I get to see my friends and work.”

For

As the Executive Director, knowing we make a difference in the lives of others is what is most important.

For more information about Pathways, call (201) 9976155. If you are interested in employment, send your resume

Walk-a-Thon.

or complete an application at 60 Kingsland Ave., Kearny.

Editor’s note: Mr. Cox’s essay was devised after a series of questions posed to him by The Observer. He is the longtime executive director of Pathways to Independence.

Contributed photo

nearly half a century, Pathways to Independence has served the area’s special needs community. They rely on the generosity of donors to offset costs not covered by government funding. Here, consumers, employees and volunteers are seen at its 2022

OPINION & VIEWPOINTS

COMMENTARY

To the Editor:

American football

Some will read this and bemoan this piece is reactionary. And it sure as heck is. Because after what I witnessed on Monday Night Football a few weeks ago, and after years of paying witness to the sport, I will never, ever, be able to grasp why Americans love the game of football as much as they do.

It all returns to the horrifying sight of seeing the Buffalo Bills’ Damar Hamlin being hit in the chest by a helmet, his standing up after the hit for about two seconds — then collapsing flat on his back, motionless.

Not even his chest rose because at that very moment, he was essentially dead. And were it not for the sheer reality there were highly competent doctors and medical professionals on scene, that death might not have been reversed.

Before Hamlin was taken away from the field in an ambulance, the doctors were, indeed, able to revive him. But according to his uncle, Hamlin had to be revived a second time when he arrived at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

This is a 24-year-old athlete in superior physical shape, mind you, who, for reasons still unknown, suffered cardiac arrest — twice — with the world watching.

And so, here we are, a couple of weeks later, left to wonder how this happened, logically and fairly speculating it was the hit to his chest that caused Hamlin’s heart to stop.

Then it all made me wonder — how many people watching that game last week were doing so with the hopes of seeing something barbaric? Because the reality is, American football, as we know it, is an absolutely brutal sport. Indeed, the players know the risks involved, but how is it possible this sport, worth untold billions of dollars, is so revered?

Seeing Hamlin on his back, motionless, made me wonder. Yet no answer will ever make sense. And then, a few days later, there we were, with a full slate of games to close out the regular season.

No one was killed in any of the games.

But won’t it just be a matter of time before someone is? And who knows — maybe that will make the sport even more revered?

There is a tool in place to get uninsured drivers off the road that we have stopped using. Not long ago, when you took your car to inspection, you had to produce your driver’s license, car registration and proof the car was insured. Now you don’t even need to show proof of insurance.

It is illegal to drive in New Jersey without car insurance, and if you do, you are subject to fines, loss of license for one year, and in some cases, jail time.

Uninsured drivers are responsible for a good portion of automobile accidents that take place in our state; however, Senate President Democrat Nicholas Scutari and Republican Sen. Jon Bramnick don’t seem

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

to be concerned with those driving without insurance, but instead want those who are insured to pay hundreds of dollars more a year for higher Personal Injury Protection, PIP.

Would it surprise anyone both senators are

personal injury attorneys? Politicians in New Jersey are noted for taking care of those who donate heavily to their campaigns, in a “You scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours,” scenario. Here it seems Sens. Scutari and Bramnick think the voters are such fools that they can get away with scratching their own backs.

Armand Rose North Arlington

The Observer’s correction policy

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Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

Lisa M. Feorenzo

lisa@theobserver.com

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

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Once again, politicians still show us they love scratching each other’s backs: Rose

I may never truly grasp why there’s such love for

KPD: Man on bad acid trip cuts roommate’s arm with folding knife & hits him with table

By Capt. Timothy Wagner Kearny Police Department

On Jan. 2 at 10:15 a.m., Officers Christian Medina, Ellese Ogando, Andre Fernandes, Sgt. Jay Ward, and Capt. Paul Bershefski were dispatched to a stabbing at a private home that sees more visits from the police than a Dunkin’ Donuts. Outside the home, they found a 28-year-old Kearny man with a large deep laceration to his right arm with exposed fatty tissue.

The man reported he had an altercation with a man he has been living with for five months. He alleged the man was on a bad acid trip, stuck him in the head with a living room table, and then cut his arm with a black folding knife. Officers found and seized the knife.

While EMS readied the victim for transport to a local hospital, officers located the alleged assailant, a 33-year-old Kearny man, inside the home. After further investigation, officers arrested him on charges of aggravated assault and weapon possession offenses. He was later held at the Hudson County Jail.

On Jan. 1 at 11:41 p.m., Officers Cort Montanino and Jonathan Lima were dispatched to a report of a fighting male near the intersection of Kearny Avenue and Dukes Street. After hearing the sound of glass breaking on Dukes Street, Officer Montanino’s attention was drawn to Shawn J. Laroche, 30, of Kearny, who had allegedly knocked over a recycling can and then began kicking a parked car.

Officer Montanino confronted Laroche, who initially scoffed at his orders to stop walking away. Officers later learned Laroche had just finished arguing with a nearby resident who confronted him about his reportedly disorderly behavior on the street, after which officers arrived to find him kicking

the car.

Officer Lima took Laroche under arrest despite his reported resistance to being handcuffed. Placed inside the back of a police SUV, Laroche kicked the inside of that vehicle as well. He was charged by summons with criminal mischief, obstructing, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct, and then released to an area hospital.

On Jan. 2 at 1:02 a.m., Officer Lawrence Latka was dispatched to Quick Chek on a report of a man screaming he had just robbed the store. The man fled before police arrived and Officer Latka found that the store had not been robbed. Officers eventually caught up to the man on the Kearny-East Newark border. He was later identified as Erly AbrigoArrendondo, 32, of Newark.

While Abrigo-Arrendondo told officers an odd tale he had been followed by a woman with big eyes, the department received a report Abrigo-Arrendondo had just previously smashed the front window of Walgreens at 248 Kearny Ave.

Sgt. Tim Castle viewed surveillance video recordings allegedly showing AbrigoArrendondo smash the Walgreens window with a green thermos. The officers then arrested AbrigoArrendondo and recovered a green Stanley thermos while searching him incident to arrest.

Abrigo-Arrendondo was charged by summons with criminal mischief and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. He was then released to a local hospital.

On Jan. 7, Officers Bryan San Martin and Thomas Collins arrested Nathan Braswell, 18, of Newark, at the Somerset County Jail where Braswell was an outgoing inmate. Braswell was the subject of a Kearny

warrant charging theft and conspiracy, which was issued Jan. 5.

The charges were related to a March 9, 2022, theft of a Dodge Charger from Kearny and New Lawn avenues. Det. Jonathan Dowie collected

and analyzed an abundance of digital evidence allegedly linking Braswell to the car theft.

Braswell was booked at KPD and then transferred to another county jail, this one in South Kearny.

Sunday, February 12th

is approaching fast! Let your customers know where to catch the game.

For more info & pricing, call us today @ 201-991-1600

Pre-K and Kindergarten Registration

Kearny School District 172 Midland Avenue • Kearny, NJ 07032 • 201-955-5128

The Kearny School District will be accepting ONLINE registration for the following programs for the 2023-24 school year:

• Full Day Preschool Age 3 (Limited seats- Available by lottery) Child must be Three years of age by October 1, 2023

• Full Day Preschool Age 4 Child must be Four years of age by October 1, 2023

• Full Day Kindergarten Age 5 Child must be Five years of age by October 1, 2023

Registration will be completed ONLINE ONLY following the schedule below. You do not need to come to the Board of Education Office.

Full Day Preschool Age 4 & Full Day Kindergarten

The registration link will be active beginning February 1, 2023 at 9:00AM. Students will be placed on a first come, first serve basis until all available seats are filled.

Full Day Preschool Age 3

The link to enter the lottery will be active on March 1, 2023 at 9:00 AM until March 31, 2023 at 4:00 PM. Date and time for the lottery will be announced.

All links, forms, and instructions can be found on the Kearny School District’s website www.kearnyschools.com on the main page and the Registration page. All necessary documents must be uploaded at the time of registration to avoid a delay in completing the process and securing your child’s placement.

Current Pre-K 3 students DO NOT have to re-register for Pre-K 4, and current Pre-K 4 students DO NOT have to re-register for Kindergarten.

Kearny Adult School returns with full slate of

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

f you’ve lived in Kearny for a while, one thing was certain to show up in your mailbox a few times each year a mailer from the Kearny Adult School with a list of course offerings. Because the cost of postage is too much these days, those mailers don’t come anymore. And, thanks to COVID, like many other things in the world, the adult school took a prolonged hiatus.

But now that things are somewhat under control (whatever that really means) pandemic wise, the Kearny Adult School is making a triumphant return this semester and course offerings will be somewhat similar, somewhat new, Patrick Cassidy, the school’s new director, says.

Of all the courses, Cassidy says the most attended and

in demand is English as a Second Language. In fact, this year, there will be three levels of the course offered Low Beginner, High Beginner and Intermediate/ Advanced English speakers.

Some of the other courses being offered include preparation for the High School Equivalency exam. For oldtimers, that’s the same as GED prep.

There are three other languages being offered, including conversational Spanish, conversational Portuguese and a long-time tradition at the school, introductory American Sign Language.

For those looking for something physical, Yoga, Zumba and Tai Chi courses will be offered. Students may take one, two or all three of those since they’re scheduled at different times.

Special electives are being offered in Poetry & Film, Gui-

tar for Beginners, Financial Strategies, Fine Arts/Drawing and Cake Decorating.

And another offering is Hypnosis, where those looking to stop smoking, lose weight and/or sleep better may want to attend.

Registration for the courses will take place at Kearny High School, 336 Devon St., Kearny, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Feb. 27 and 28 and March 1. Classes meet either

Tuesdays and/or Thursdays. Some only meet once a week, some meet twice. March 7 is the first day of classes and the last day of make-ups in case of inclement weather is May 28.

Tuition for each course varies.

ESL an HSE is $150; each athletic class is $90 if taken once a week or $140 for two nights per week; Guitar is $140; Spanish, Portuguese,

Sign Language, Drawing and Poetry & Film is $120; Cake Decorating is $80; Finance courses are $50 each and each hypnosis session is $60.

Cash, checks or money orders will be accepted at registration but debit and credit cards won’t be. Courses are open to anyone, not just Kearny residents.

For a full course offering and costs, visit bit.ly/ khsadults.

Payment Example: $7.90 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000.00 15-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 4.990% will result in 180 payments of $790.27 on owner occupied 5+ multi-family.

80% loan to value with 20% equity or 20% 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.

SPORTS & RECREATION

Town raises $3K for William

Mullins, who has been

diagnosed with Leukemia

Belleville girls basketball enjoys bounce back season

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

To fully grasp the meaning of the 7-2 start Belleville’s girls basketball team has gotten off to, all head coach Chris Cantarella and the upperclassmen need to do is think back to just two years prior when they went 0-13 in a Covid-shortened season and there were just nine players in the entire program.

“When you have a little more depth you can do it. In our practice sessions, they’ve been working really hard at getting better at it.”

As part of that man-toman defense, point guard Ashley Cely is sure to be matched up with the opposing team’s top scorer. The return of the 5-foot-5 senior, who missed all of last season due to injury, has proven invaluable to the Bucs.

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

The Kearny community came together to support one of its own this past Tuesday as the Kearny High School boys and girls basketball teams hosted a double-header in honor and support of KHS senior William Mullins.

According to athletic director Vincent Almeida, the “Leukemia Awareness” event raised nearly $3,000 to support both the Mullins family and the John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center. The two games drew more than 500 fans total, which is nearly triple the typical attendance for a home basketball double-header.

“It’s wonderful what the people of Kearny and outside of Kearny are doing for my son and cancer research,” said William’s father and Kearny head boys basketball and volleyball coach BIll Mullins.

“You don’t realize when you’re living your life how many people you’ve touched or how many friends you have. It’s really amazing. You see people that take an interest and it’s really, really nice.

“It was a very important night, a very touching night. William wasn’t there, but he appreciates it very much. What people are doing for him and also other cancer patients in helping to fight the disease.”

Mullins, an all-state volleyball player and basketball standout who is also among the top five in his graduating class academically, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in November.

“Kearny’s a special town and we showed it on Tuesday when everyone came out to support William Mullins,” Almeida said. “He’s a great kid who really exemplifies what we’re trying to instill in our student-athletes here. Someone who is dedicated, works hard, doesn’t allow outside

factors to influence him negatively, someone who is willing to sacrifice for whatever program he’s in.

“It’s very powerful for everyone here in the school. William’s been running around this place since he could walk. He participated in all of the youth camps that we’ve had and then eventually became a high school athlete and thriving academically as well.”

Since William Mullins’ diagnosis, a couple of smaller activities within the school to raise funds had taken place, but last week’s basketball event was the biggest and most publicized to date.

According to Bill Mullins, the idea of a basketball double-header was first brought up by members of the girls basketball team. Soon thereafter as the season started in mid-December, the formal plans were put forth - an event

“It’s a world different from what it was the last two years because of the record,” said Cantarella, now in his sixth season as head coach. “Most of the girls on the team have been through our Covid year, which was not good, as well as last year which was a struggle. The attitude is much different. They’re a lot more jovial, it’s a lot better to win than it is to lose. They come into practice a little bit more motivated and enthusiastic.”

Winning understandably does that to a team and the Bucs enter the second month of the season, tied for first in the Super Essex Conference - Freedom Division with Newark Lab at 7-1.

A big reason for the success has been a level of depth Belleville has not enjoyed in recent memory as Cantarella counts eight girls who are capable of starting. That depth has also allowed him to return to play a man-to-man defense that has allowed just 22.3 points per game.

“I have a little bit more depth this year so I can play a more physical type of man-to-man defense and doubling on ball screens,” Cantarella said.

“She doesn’t do a lot of scoring, but she does a lot of everything else,” said Cantarella. “She rebounds, she distributes the basketball, she plays great man-to-man defense, she plays awesome helpside defense.”

The other point guard is sophomore Camila Cortes-Alonso (5-foot-5), who has been able to show more of her all-around game, since she is no longer counted upon to do everything on the offensive end.

“She’s a great basketball player who handles the ball very well and has a good mid-range jumpshot,” Cantarella said. “She was probably our best basketball player last year and has improved again this year.”

Another strong defender in the starting backcourt is 5-foot-6 senior Amelia Fabara, who is also the Bucs’ best player in transition.

At one forward spot for Belleville is Gianna DaSilva, a 5-foot-7 senior, who is strong in the post defensively and as a rebounder. Ath the other spot is junior Sheyla Amparo, who is

Photo by Jason Bernstein

William Mullins

MULLINS

that started with the Kearny boys playing University of Charter of Jersey City followed by the Kardinals girls squaring off with Union City.

“Going into the season I had spoken to Bill as well as Coach (Jody) Hill about possibly one day having a double-header fundraiser for William and to show him that we support him, we miss him, that we’re there with him and that whatever he needs from us, we’re there and he can always reach out.” said Almeida. “We put it together fairly quickly and the community responded quickly and showed up in force.”

All four participating teams wore orange shirts that said “Playing for William” in support of Leukemia Awareness.

In the boys game, which the Kardinals won 49-30, William’s younger brother Matheus, a junior, scored a career-high 21 points. The amount also matched the career-high William had set in

a game last season.

Matheus Mullins, who has changed his number from 33 to the 24 that William wore, leads the team in scoring at 13.7 points per game.

“It’s tough for him also because he and his brother always played everything together,” Bill Mullins said. “They were always on the same team, whether it was in soccer, basketball, baseball. Everything they’ve done, they’ve done together.”

Union City defeated Kearny in the nightcap by a score of 51-38, but the result on the court paled to the emotions and support of the evening.

“It’s amazing how it really is a small world and with technology and social media now people know about things (quicker) as compared to years ago,” said Bill Mullins, who wanted to thank superintendent of schools Flora Encarnacao, principal Jackie Richardson and Almeida among others. “It’s a nice, warm feeling to know that you’re not on your own.”

BELLEVILLE

Continued from Page 9

the team’s top rebounder.

“She’s a tough kid, she understands her role on our team fantastically,” said Cantarella. “She knows that she’s there to play defense, rebound and be a presence.”

Perhaps no bigger testament to the improved depth is sophomore McKayla Reed,

a starter a season ago, who now comes off the bench. The 5-foot-10 Reed has a great wingspan and is capable of playing in the post and on the perimeter.

Also, coming off the bench is 5-foot-9 junior Katheinne Avecillas-Macgregor, a transfer from Ecuador, who can play the two, three and four on defense. Five-footseven senior Amadi McIver, a Dickinson transfer, is another strong defender who excels in transition.

Other players, who have

key roles off the bench include Danae Ruiz-Luna, a junior who transferred from Ecuador, senior Mikaela Andrade, who returns after missing last year due to injury, and promising freshman post player Mya Estrict.

Belleville looks to continue its winning ways on Tuesday, Jan. 17 against Technology before traveling the next day to play at St. Vincent of Newark. These are the Bucs last two games before the Essex County Tournament is seeded.

Premier Car e TALK S

EAR AND ITS MANY FUNCTIONS

INNER

THE

While the ear is an essential sensory organ, the inner ear is responsible for many functions other than hearing. The inner ear, or labyrinth, rests at the end of the ear canal, on the temporal bone. It’s part of the vestibular system that processes sensory information in the brain, controlling equilibrium, balance, and eye movement. The labyrinth is composed of three parts: the fluid-filled cochlea, which allows sound vibrations to send signals to the brain; semicircular canals, three fluid-filled tubes with tiny hairs translating movement to nerve signals to the brain for controlling balance; and the vestibule between the cochlea and semicircular canals affecting balance and equilibrium. Inner ear infections (labyrinthitis) cause dizziness and various degrees of vertigo due to inflammation.

Inner ear and balance problems are caused by the brain receiving conflicting or wrong signals and possibly misinterpreting them. If you are experiencing any dizziness or balance issues, we recommend you contact us for an examination. We will conduct a balance test which will assess where in the balance system the problems are occurring and what is causing your symptoms. To schedule an appointment, please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-9987474, or visit us 7 days a week at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B.

P. S. In the second century, Galen, chief physician of the Emperor Marcus Aurelius, first applied the term labyrinth to the inner ear, although labyrinthitis has been used as a medical term for only 200 years.

Photo by Jason Bernstein

Left to right are head coach Chris Cantarella and captains Ashley Cely, Amelia Fabara, and Gianna DaSilva.

Premier Care Associates of West Hudson is available on a walk-in or appointment basis for your primary healthcare needs.

Dr. Prakash J. Doshi

Dr. Hector Aguilar

Burgos turns street ball experience into HS success

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

When Edward Burgos first moved to Harrison from the Dominican Republic, he initially didn’t try out for the high school basketball team, instead electing for the pickup and street games he was more accustomed to playing in his home country.

So when Harrison boys basketball coach Jose Camano first met Burgos a year later, he was in shock at the previously unknown player walking the halls.

“I didn’t even know he was in the school his freshman year,” said Camano. “His sophomore year, he came out and I asked him a question

in English and he looked at me because he didn’t know english. So I asked him in Spanish when he came here and he said ‘oh, I’ve been here already for a year-anda-half. I didn’t want to try out because I just wanted to play street.’

“Eddie excelled really quickly from the moment he

walked into our gym. From the moment we saw him play, we knew we had a great guard coming in.”

Now a senior and with three years of varsity experience, Burgos is now blowing everyone away with his play.

As the calendar turned to 2023, the 5-foot-11 Burgos elevated his game to heights not seen at Harrison in recent years. First, it was 26 points in a loss to Rutherford. Then it was 29 points for the Blue Tide when they went on the road to beat North Arlington, followed by 26 in a victory over Harrison. Two games later, Burgos went off for 28 points in a hard-fought loss at Park Ridge.

Burgos’ hot shooting, which not coincidentally comes with a recent turnaround in the Blue Tide’s fortunes as a team, make him The Observer Athlete of the Week.

Burgos is averaging 23.1 points per game over his last seven games and for the season is at 19.8 per game.

His impressive scoring numbers are all the more impressive, considering he started the season in a massive shooting slump during Harrison’s first three games.

“I wasn’t frustrated, I knew it would be a long season,” said Burgos. “I changed my game up, I was playing way too fast for myself. I was playing more with the time instead of the game so I changed that and realized that I had to play my game by slowing it down a little bit.”

Growing up in the Dominican Republic, Burgos became accustomed to playing against players older, bigger and stronger than him. While some adjustments did need to be made as he got more acclimated to the more structured nature of high school games, those experiences from his home country helped him prepare for the opponents he now goes up against.

“It’s different and it did help me a lot. I was playing against older guys, guys who were bigger and stronger,” said Burgos. “It helped because in our league I’m not going to get a 6-foot-5 guy guarding me. That helped me out with the physicality of basketball.”

After playing sparingly in his Covid-shortened sophomore season, Burgos was forced to play the point guard position last year due to an achilles injury to teammate Reuben Stokes. Stokes’ return to the point guard spot, has allowed him thrive

“Eddie can get from A to B without a problem, he can get to the rim if he wants,” Camano said. “It’s really hard to guard Eddie because he can hit the outside shot, but he can also drive or hit the midrange shot. He’s just a really good all-around player.”

With more than 640 career points, Burgos has an outside shot at reaching 1,000 points if he continues the torrid pace of the past two weeks. He also hopes to play basketball in college.

Photo by Jason Bernstein Edward Burgos

Kearny Italian teacher indicted on child-porn possession charge: feds

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

A federal grand jury indicted a Kearny school teacher, who is a Morris County resident, for allegedly possessing and distributing images of child sexual abuse, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced Saturday, Jan. 14.

Anselmo Girimonte, 52, of Wharton, is charged by indictment with one count of possession of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography. He will be arraigned at a date to be determined.

Girimonte was arrested by the

Department of Homeland Security on a criminal complaint on this conduct on March 4, 2022, and consented to detention.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

From Dec. 27, 2021, through Jan. 17, 2022, Girimonte reportedly distributed material containing images and video files of child sexual abuse, via a publicly available online peer-to-peer (P2P) filesharing network of linked computers.

Law enforcement officers conducted undercover online sessions to access the P2P program and during these sessions

a user shared multiple video files of pre-pubescent children being sexually abused by adults from an internet address traced to Girimonte’s residence.

On March 2, 2022, law enforcement officers lawfully obtained a cell phone from Girimonte’s residence that contained hundreds of images and videos of child pornography, including images of prepubescent children being sexually abused.

The count of possession of child pornography carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000. The count of distribution of

child pornography carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.

According to his own social media, Girimonte has been an Italian teacher in the Kearny school district since 2006. At the time of his arrest, he was placed on “administrative suspension” by then Superintendent of School Patricia Blood.

He remains on the same administrative suspension, current Superintendent of Schools Flora Encarnacao said.

Washington School in Kearny announces first-quarter honor roll

Jon Zimmerman, principal of Washington School in Kearny, announces the following students who have achieved academic honors for the first marking period of the 2022-23 school year.

Grade 4

Principal’s Honors

Zayd Dabaji Honors

Jocelyn Aquino Sandoval, Elias Cabrera, Kayla Cabrera,

Dylan Cano, John DeLara, Kayo Denadai, Santiago Deras, Angel Garcia, Maria Giraldo Calle, Dana Graciano Menjivar, Victoria Hempel, Kaici Huang, William Jibaja, Hiba Maliji, Kailey Martinez Gonzalez, Jamill Mendoza,Teo Ruiz Analuisa, Nicole Sanchez, Jaquawn Stewart, Giana Tice, Ariana Valadez Medina, Lara Vilas Boas

Grade 5

Principal’s Honors

Isabelle Crucinta Guzman, Mathias Campoverde, Juan Caycho Bernuy, Nali Juarez, Isabella Lyons, Jaden Nieves, Elizabeth Silva, Aliza Syeda

Honors

Mayiarah Almeida, Gina Alves, Kimberly Blancas Guzman, Fabio Burga Suejiro, Isabella Duarte, Erick Guano

Diaz, Michael Herbert, Beatriz Mota, Nathanael Olivares, Gabriel Olivos, Paul Oshiro, Anett Pintado, Muhammad Qadeer, Evan Rebelo Da Silva, Katherine Santos Luciano, Gabriel Siqueira, Kevin Solano

Grade 6

Principal’s Honors

Audrey Bradow, Syeda Eshal, Emmalee Govin, Giuliana Janeira, Vishal Kathiravel, Gabriel Lopez Chiles, Logan McDonald, Jose Quiroga Vilchez, Azaylie Rodriguez,

Joelyz Rosado-Zayas Honors

Braulio Bailon Joaquin,Clarice Da Fonseca, Luca Ferri Doti, Samantha Garcia, Josue Granados, Reeyad Heddaj, Fares Hegazy, Maria Jose Lora de la Rosa, Danara Matos, Logan Navedo, Michael Ortega, Luis Pena Helena, Leandro Perez Lopez, Cristiano Ribeiro Fernandes, Matthew Rivadeneira Zurita, Sara Rivera Marroquin, Amelia Sanchez

GRAVES’ EYE DISEASE

Graves’ eye disease, or thyroid eye disease, occurs in patients with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to produce too much thyroid hormone, resulting in hyperthyroidism. One in three patients with Graves’ disease will experience related eye problems. The main symptom of Graves’ eye disease is bulging eyes, caused by swelling from the immune system attacking the tissue around the eyes. The bulging itself can cause other symptoms, such as dry, red eyes, eyelids that pull back instead of closing all the way, double vision, eye pain or pressure, and trouble moving the eyes. Graves’ eye disease does not cause vision loss but may affect vision acu-

ity. Certain medications can help reduce swelling and other symptoms.

Researchers are still studying thyroid eye disease, but they know that hyperthyroidism and Graves’ disease cause this condition. This means it is important to talk to your healthcare provider if you suspect you have a thyroid problem and get treatment right away. To schedule an exam, please call 201-896-0096. 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. If you have Graves’ disease, your ophthalmologist can check for early signs of thyroid eye disease during regular eye exams. www.delucavision.com

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

DeLuca Vision Consultants

Anne S. Mackinnon

Anne S. Mackinnon (nee Austin), 92, of Rutherford, formerly of Kearny, died Jan. 13, 2023.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation for Anne at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny, on Wednesday, Jan. 18, from 3 to 7 p.m. A funeral service will be celebrated in the funeral home at 6 p.m. Interment will be private.

Born in Newark, Anne lived in Towanda, Pennsylvania, before moving back to Kearny for many years. She worked as a tax assessor for the Town of Newton, and was an active member of the Republican Party in Kearny, and was also a member of the Wanaque Women’s Club.

Anne was predeceased by her first husband Thomas J. Macfie, and by her second husband Thomas Mackinnon. She is survived by her loving children Barbara Macfie, Thomas Macfie, Scott Macfie and Bonnie Walker, and by her step-daughter Kathy Mackinnon. She was the dear grandmother of 12, great-grandmother of nine and great-great-grandmother of three. She was also predeceased by her daughter Carol Macfie.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Tour de Force New York.

Helen M. Davidson

Helen M. Davidson, (nee Johnston), 88, died Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023, at home in Kearny.

The funeral was from the Thiele-Reid Family Funeral Home, Kearny. A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Cecilia Church, Kearny. Interment was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.thiele-reid.com.

Born in Newark, Helen lived in Sea Bright, then Harrison, before moving to Kearny 65 years ago.

She was employed as an order taker at Pechter’s Bakery in Harrison for 26 years before retiring in 2000.

Mrs. Davidson is survived by her children, John R. Davidson (Diane), Karen Duda and Thomas P. Davidson (Mercedes). She was the grandmother of Daniel, Ryan, Kelsey and Justin Davidson. She also leaves behind many

OBITUARIES

nieces and nephews and Molly the dog.

Helen was predeceased by her husband, Robert, son, Robert, son-in-law Charles and sister, Barbara Sanfilippo and her husband, James.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Mario E. Paolino

Mario E. Paolino, “King Mario,” 99, died Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022, in Clara Maass Medical Center, Belleville.

Born in Kearny, NJ, Mario was a lifelong resident.

Mr. Paolino served in the United States Army from 1943 until 1946.

He was employed by the Kearny Board of Education as a custodian for over 26 years before retiring in 2010.

In 1989, Mr. Paolino was inducted into the Kearny High School Athletic Hall of Fame for baseball.

He was a member of the Wilson Gugelman Post 1302, V.F.W., the Joseph E. Frobisher Post 99, American Legion and the Fraternal Order of Eagles all of Kearny.

He is survived by his beloved friend and caretaker, Denise Pavolic and her son, Frank Pavolic. Mario also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

Mario was predeceased by his parents, Luigi and Rosina (nee Minelli) Paolino, siblings, Irene Scherzo, Arthur, Anthony, Albert and Raymond Paolino.

He is now home in Heaven with his entire family and his beloved dog “Pal.”

Funeral services were private and under the direction of the Thiele-Reid Family Funeral Home, Kearny. Interment took place in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

Catherine A. Mills

Catherine A. Mills, 82, of Manahawkin, formerly of Kearny, died peacefully Saturday afternoon, Jan. 7, at the Grace Park Senior Living Center in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.

Catherine was born in White

Plains, New York, on Feb. 23, 1940, the only daughter of the late Frank and Mary (Barilla) Arcidiacono. She graduated from Kearny High School, and began her career in banking at First National Bank of Kearny. Catherine worked and educated herself in the banking industry, retiring as Vice President of Valley National Bank of New Jersey. After retirement she relocated to Manahawkin.

Catherine was of the Catholic faith and loved the beach. She cherished the time she spent cooking and gathering around her dining room table with her family. She also enjoyed sewing and quilting.

Preceding her in death in addition to her parents was her husband, Harry Bachelor who died May 18, 2018, brother, Frank Arcidiacono, granddaughter, Vanessa Windle, and great-granddaughter, Skylar Giorgio.

Surviving is her daughter, Karen Siegel and her husband, John of Bushkill, Pennsylvania; sons, Frank Mills of Kearny, and Joe Mills and his wife, Cheryl of Rockaway; stepdaughter, Kathy Rothberg and her husband, Bruce of Edison; brother, Peter Arcidiacono and his wife, Patty of Marco Island, Florida, grandchildren, Allison Giorgio, Thomas Windle, Jessica Machinshok, Joey Mills, and Julia Mills, great-grandchildren, Chelsea Windle, Justin Rosenberger and Lucia Giorgio.

Services will be private.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Yanac Funeral & Cremation Service, Inc., 35 Sterling Road, Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, where online condolences may be made left at www.yanacfuneralhome.com.

Memorial donations can be made to the Dingmans Ferry United Methodist Church, 115 Myck Road, Dingmans Ferry, Pa. 18328.

Waclaw J. Mazur

Waclaw J. Mazur, 65, of Kearny, died at home surrounded by his wife and kids on Jan. 13, 2023.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation for Waclaw at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny, on Friday, Jan. 20 from 4 to 8 p.m. A funeral Mass

will be celebrated at St. Casmir Church in Newark on Saturday, Jan. 21, at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

Born in Poland, Waclaw immigrated to the United States 40 years ago. He lived in Newark for 10 years before settling in Kearny in 1994. He was a self-employed contractor, operating Wes Construction for many years.

Waclaw was devoted to his family and had immense pride in his work. He was an active longtime parishioner of St. Casimir Church.

Waclaw was the beloved husband of Helena Mazur;

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

loving father of Sylvia Mazur, Olivia Mazur and Robert Mazur; dear brother of Rudolf Mazur and his wife Jadwiga, uncle of Jacek Mazur and his wife Ewa and great-uncle of Karolina and Agata. He is predeceased by his parents Ludwik and Emilia Mazur.

Along with his immediate family, he will be missed by extended family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to St. Casmir Church, or to Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital, by using the following link: mskcc.convio.net/goto/ GBMWarriorWes

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

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

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

NA Knights hosting pasta dinner Jan. 31 for dine-in & take-away

The Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus sponsor a eat-in/takeout pasta dinner Tuesday, Jan. 31 at 5:30 p.m., at the Columbian Club Hall, 194 River Road, North Arlington.

The Knights will serve pasta, meatballs, salad, bread, dessert and refreshments. The costs is $20 for adults and $10 for kids ages 6 to 12.

Reservations are a must and may be made by calling (201) 988-0183 before Thursday, Jan. 26.

Fundraiser will benefit Lyndhurst Mun. Alliance & Girls’ Association

Several township organizations

NEWS BRIEFS

are joining forces to raise funds for the Lyndhurst Girls’ Association and Lyndhurst Municipal Alliance. (The alliance is an anti-substance abuse and pro-mental health community organization.)

Ken Conti, of Lyndhurst, and his fellow band members read a recent article about the alliance in The Observer and offered to do a fundraiser to further help it raise money for its anti-drug and pro-mental health programs for youth, parents and residents of Lyndhurst.

In addition, the fundraiser will also support Lyndhurst Girls’ Association, which maintains the historic Libbie Lindsay Little House, the home to

over 90 Lyndhurst Girl Scouts.

The Italian-American Club of Lyndhurst has volunteered to prepare food for the event.

The fundraiser, set for Saturday, Feb. 11, from 7 to 10 p.m., at the Lyndhurst Senior Center, 250 Cleveland Ave., is being dubbed an “Early Valentine Celebration” of doo-wop, dinner and dancing.

Tickets are $40 and include a pasta dinner, dessert and beverages (BYOB). Tables of up to eight guests may be reserved.

Mail checks, payable to the Lyndhurst Girls’ Association, to Donna Shinnick, 617 Lake Ave., Lyndhurst, N.J. 07071.

ANCHOR rebate filing deadline extended to Feb. 28

their primary residence on Oct. 1, 2019 and file or be exempt from New Jersey income taxes.

The average New Jersey property tax bill was approximately $9,300 in 2021. ANCHOR rebates could offset more than 16% of the average property tax bill in New Jersey for some homeowners. For a middleclass family receiving the $1,500 in direct relief, the average bill will effectively become $7,800, a property tax level New Jersey has not seen since 2012.

To receive payment expected to arrive in late spring township leaders implore Belleville’s eligible residents to apply by the state’s Jan. 31 deadline.

NORTH ARLINGTON • NJ 07031

The State of New Jersey has extended the application deadline and are expanding eligibility for the new ANCHOR property tax relief program to Feb. 28 from Dec. 30.

Belleville Mayor Michael Melham and the Township Council have now made it a mission to ensure every eligible Belleville resident takes advantage of this relief program.

To apply, visit the Division of Taxation’s website at nj.gov/ treasury/taxation/anchor. The state has also established an ANCHOR hotline at (888) 238–1233.

“For Belleville residents, some of whom live on a fixed income, affordability remains a top concern,” Melham said. “

Extending the deadline gives residents a greater ability to take advantage of a program that will help make their lives just a little more affordable.”

The ANCHOR program will provide up to $1,500 to homeowners with 2019 gross incomes up to $150,000, and up to $1,000 for those with gross incomes of between $150,000 and $250,000 in that year. ANCHOR is also an important program for the tenants, who may receive $450 if their gross income was $150,000 or less in 2019.

The ANCHOR program expands on and replaces the Homestead Rebate Program. To be eligible for this year’s benefit, homeowners and renters must have occupied

Payments will be issued in the form of check or direct deposit. The money is not subject to federal or state income tax.

Eligible homeowners may apply online, by phone, or via paper application, which can be downloaded online and returned by mail.

Tenants may apply online or download the application from the state Division on Taxation website and return it via mail.

Schuyler School in Kearny names December Students of the Month Schuyler School Principal Valerie Iacono has announced the school’s December Students of the Month.

Santiago Almeida Orbe, Emily Amador, Maria Bombino Sanchez, Fernando Bravo, Cody Brimmer, Izabell Beltran.

Also, David Caceres, David Caixeta De Souza, Lucas Canales, Danna Diaz, Leonardo Diaz, Saia Diaz, Andianna Dileo.

Also, Blanca Flores, Inayah Hajjaj, Luis Jaya, Julian Kulesza, Britney Lopez, Yeshua Moreano Llumiquinga, Luciano Medina, Isabella Muniz-Ramirez, Vittoria Neto, Ouwaiss Ouali, Anthony Padavano, Camila Padilla Ascoy, Matias Ribadeneira.

Also, Isabella Muniz-Ramirez, Zachary McCarthy, Ember Merchant, Jayden Rivera, Ronnie Salas Lima, Ariannys Ramos-Villalobos, Luis Saldana-Chero, Amelia Santiago, Ayden Solis, Aeron Silvestre.

And, William Taliento, Emily Tamay Alvacora, Anthony Vilardo, Jaxson Walters, Ryan Yang and Jeremy Zabala.

Read something in The Observer you agree with? Disagree with? We want to hear from you. Send a letter to editorial@theobserver. com. Keep it to a max of 250 words. Be sure to include a phone number for verification purposes. No anonymous letters, please. Longer letters may be considered for Op-Eds.

School

saga appears to be over

A primary obstacle to the development of Belleville’s former School 1 property has been lifted now that a state monitor appointed to oversee the fiscally-stressed school district has ordered a disputed land transfer.

In so doing, the monitor, Thomas Egan, overruled last month’s 4-3 vote by the Board of Education to reject turning over to the township a narrow sliver of land that was mistakenly excluded from the deed recording the sale of the property, also used to park school vehicles, to the township in December 2011 for $1.

A state audit later concluded the school board had badly erred in disposing of the School 1 property and getting nothing in return.

Two years later the township sold the tract to a developer for $1 million on the condition the township pay for the school’s demolition and a cleanup of the site costing about half that amount. The land has sat fallow ever since.

Now with Belleville hoping to see a return on its investment, the township wants to remedy the apparent real estate slip-up so the developer can secure a clean title to the land and proceed with construction.

Egan, in a letter to BOE president Luis Munoz dated Dec. 27, 2022, said his review of the situation “…a potential impact to the district leads me to disagree with the 4-3 decision of the board to reject the final transfer of the remainder of the (School 1) property in question to the municipality.”

But Egan doesn’t explain what he means by the “potential impact to the district” and several messages left on his cell phone weren’t returned.

In any case, Egan goes on to say he is “… authorizing the execution of any and all documents necessary to recognize the full and final transfer of the parcel and any remaining portion of the School 1 property…and I am directing the (BOE’s) business administrator/board secretary to prepare and execute the necessary documents based on this decision….”

Asked what will happen next, township manager Anthony Iacono said: “The BOE

needs to finalize/correct the conveyance of the ‘sliver’ (of land) — deliver the deed — to the township.” Additionally, he said, the township governing body must “adopt an ordinance and deliver the deed” properly stating the dimensions and tax blocks and lots of the full site.

What will happen at the site? Iacono said, “The entire property is already subject to an adopted redevelopment plan which permits a convenience store with fuel sales on approximately 75% of the property and residential development of a maximum of 40 units on about 25% of the property.”

Iacono said QuickChek has submitted a site plan application to the township Planning Board for the convenience store portion, which has yet to be deemed complete, subject to the finalizing of corrective deeds and QuickChek being designated as redeveloper for the convenience store by the township council.”

The township council and QuickChek must also enter into a redevelopment agreement but no such action has yet been finalized, according to Iacono.

As for the remaining part of the land, Iacono said a “contract purchaser of the residential portion of property has approached the township to be designated as redeveloper to build 40 units,” but here again, “nothing has been finalized.”

Asked if the township will require any type of safety measures to handle the additional flow of vehicular traffic a QuickChek would reasonably be expected to generate through the Rutgers Avenue intersection—already tough to navigate for motorists headed for or leaving Rutgers Avenue bridge— Iacono said, “The township is pursuing incorporating improvements to the Rutgers/Main Street intersection as part of this redevelopment.”

When might Belleville residents see any movement on the project? “(It’s) too early to project any timeline,” Iacono said, “but all stakeholders would like to see this redevelopment move forward promptly.”

RON LEIR

Apple Maps

PART TIME/FULLTIME

ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR / ELECTRICAL SUBCODE OFFICIAL

FULL TIME- KEARNY TOWN.

Salary range ($81,352-$91,216) depending upon qualifications. Part time salary range ($29.25-$38.14 per hour) depending upon qualifications.

Please submit application by February 3, 2023. The Town reserves the right to hire a qualified candidate before the end of the advertisement period.

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 for applications see link https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 36W03

We are looking for a Part time dental assistant in our Kearny office. Must be bilingual. Please call (201)991-4321 for interview. 36W03

Pathways to Independence, Inc., A day program supporting adultswith intellectual & developmental disabilities M-F 8:30AM - 4:30PM Career opportunities for: Program Supervisor F/T salary $42-$45K per year. Oversees the Adult Training Program; this position is a hand on supervisory position which works/supports the direct support staff and the adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

BA Degree or 2 year Associate Degree

Employment Specialist/Job Coach F/T ($17.50/hr.) Evaluate/Support adults referred by DVR in locating community employment. 2 year Associate degree required. One to One Direct Support Professional FT ($17.25/hr.) working within our adult training program, providing individualized supports to one adult with disabilities.

Direct Support Professionals FT & PT ($16.07-16.75/hr.)

Providing supports to adults with disabilities with our Adult Training Program. Van Drivers PT $16.06/hr. - Van Aides PT $15.50/hr. (split shift for drivers/aides 6:45AM-9AM and return again 2:45PM-5PM)

OPPORTUNITIES FOR CAREER GROWTHExcellent time off benefits (FT & PT) and excellent medical benefits for FTMust have HS Dip/GED all positions must have a clean driving record (license not required for Van 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 37W03

Building Inspector/Building Subcode Official Full time/Part Time provisional position. Under 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. Full Time Salary range ($81,352-$91,216) 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 February 3, 2023.

THE OBSERVER is not responsible for typographical errors. Credit for errors will not be granted after the next week’s publication. $10 for minimal changes. No refunds once ad is taken and C.C charged.

BELLEVILLE 2nd FLOOR, 1 BR, small Kitchen.

$1300 + 1.5 months security. HT/HW included. no pets/smoking. Available January 1st. Call Mike (201) 428-3151 36W03

N.ARLINGTON

Garden Apartment for rent. Nice area. 1 BR. EIK. LR $1675 + 1 months security. H/HW included. No Pets/Smoking. Single or Couple preferred. 1 Parking space. Laundry on premises. Call between 10am - 7pm (201)997-2341 36W03

HARRISON/E.NEWARK

A. Debenedetto Construction, LLC

Communications/Development Specialist sought by a construction company in Belleville, NJ.

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing or other closely related fields. Res: Antonio Debenedetto, Managing Member at 13 Florence Ave., Belleville, NJ 07109 or fax to: 973-751-7641. 35W03

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/ 36W03

ALL CLASSIFIED ADS MUST BE PRE-PAID Deadline for Classifieds Employment/ Business Monday 12:00 PM All others Monday by 3:00 PM. E-mail Ads to classified@ theobserver.com.

3 BR’S. 1 BATH. EIK.LR. Back & front entrances. Use of yard. $2500 + 1 month security. Utilities separate. Parking available No Pets/Smoking. 15 minute walk to PATH Available March 1st call and leave message or text (917)294-4024 Se Habla Español 36W03

N.ARLINGTON 2 family house on 2nd floor, 3 BR, 1 Bathroom Lr/Dr combo and Kitchen. No pets/ No smoking Laundry on premises 1 month security. Utilities Seperate. Call or text or leave a detailed message (973) 454-3281 $2,800/mth Available March 1st Se Habla Español 36W03

KEARNY 3 BR apt on 1ST Fl with driveway for rent. $2500 + 1 month sec. Avail Jan 15th. Sep utilities. No pets/No smoking. 914-645-8263. 36W03

KEARNY 2nd floor 1 BR, Great location

$1600 + 1 months security. Utilities separate. Parking available. No smoking/ Pets. Available 2/15 Call between 10 Am - 7Pm Single or couple preferred (201)997-2341 37W03

N.NEWARK 3 bedroom, Large kitchen with Living room. Close to transportation. $1600 + 1.5 months security. Utilities Separate. No Pets/ smoking. Available Now. Call between 10am7pm (973)202-5103 or (973)477-0925 35W03

HIGH QUALITY, AIR CONDITIONED SHOP, WITH GREAT PAY AND BENEFITS!!!

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Auto body repair tech wanted Shop located in Lynhurst New Jersey. Looking for autobody repair person to do light to medium repairs immediate employment available. Please call 201-438-3133 35W03 Caregiver seeks

We are looking an A-level repair technician than can do quarter panels, rear body panels, rocker sections, frame rails, door skins, etc. Full time position with an average of 10 hours overtime paid at time and a half. Must have own tools. $80,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year. Please call 973-763-1149 or email info@modernautobodynj.com 37W03

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NUTLEY 2nd Fl. 2 BR’S , 4 rooms apt for rent. Move In condition Large EIK, LR , HW floors, AC provided $1,700 + 1.5 month security, No pets, No smoking, Close to NY transportation. Call Tom 973-517-7517 Available 02/01 Leave a message 37W03

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Contact 201970-7182 35W03

Roosevelt School’s full firstquarter honor roll announced

Principal’s Honors Grade 6

Abigail Buchanan, Kaelyn Carlen, Gianna Covello, Lucas De Almeida, Lexi Duarte, Emma Gomes, Layla Hernandez, Sophia Lima, Luca Martinez, Alanis Pena Dantas, Samantha Ribeiro, Erin Richards, Adrian Rodriguez, Emily Rodriguez, Jayden Santos, Eva Shah, Jordano Torero Hoces, Valentina Ugarte, Matthew Whitehead.

Grade 5

Marwa Alami, Gavin Araujo, Jack Barroqueiro, Sena Bezirkan, Sandra Immerso, Lilly McSweeney, Caroline Olson, Hannah Paris, Izabella Perez –Bombino.

Grade 4

Francesca Alda, Declan Coleman, Dominic DeRosa, Quinn Pinho, Savannah Rusek, Adham Saad.

Honors

Grade 6

Yasser Abad, Isabella Antunes,

BURGLARY

Continued from Page 1

Gonzalez, 19, whose last known address was in Newark, who was taken into custody by Newark police on Nov. 29, after officers in the Newark PD’s 7th Precinct found him in possession of a stolen vehicle, a Porsche taken from Muttontown Village, New York.

After the burglary, Gonzalez and his cohorts reportedly fled in a Range Rover stolen in Franklin Lakes.

Fabula was able to identify Gonzalez based on the clothes he wore in the burglary. Oh, and he also had the key to the aforementioned stolen Range Rover on him when Newark cops picked him up.

Fabula charged Gonzalez with third-degree burglary, third-degree

Jayden Cabrera, Jayde Chimbo Calle, Scarlett Ferreira, William Franchino, Gabriela Gamez Vela, Angel Garcia Hidalgo, Aralyn Hernandez, Ariana Hernandez Guissa, Mia Jimenez, Samantha Kingalahua, Angelia Lopez, Ryan Milne, Darren Mora, Kaitlin Pateiro, Lucas Serodio.

Grade 5

Anthony Alcantara, Carmelo Cash, Amayah Febo, Isabella Flores, Zoe Habrahamson, Ava Irizarry, Nebiha Junaid, Brendan Mara, Ava Marinho, Emily Morales, Jason Olechowski, Kole Pais - Sotelo, Nicholas Peldunas, Emma Peso, Ava Piccillo, Jason Pina, Mason Ramdass, Emmanuel Rojas, Lukas Rojas Mason Santos, Sabela Tome, Alice Torres Silva, Merlin Urra Martinez.

Grade 4

Amelia Azurdia, Gael Barahona Beltran, Emmah Barroqueiro, Danny Consuegra Alvarado, Alex Dinuzzo, Sophia Dobie, Olivia Garzon, Carlos Kingalahua, Alexander Kintos, Stephen Levchak, Ayden Lighten, Brian McKenna, Lunna Orellana Barillas, Emil Pena, Brianna Porto, Rebecca Ribeiro, Rebecka Rocha Soares Ferreira, Destiny Ruccatano, Anthony Ruiz, Diego Saritama Loyola, Gurnoor Singh, Marisol Zulueta Nieto.

theft, third-degree conspiracy, seconddegree receiving stolen property and fourth-degree criminal mischief.

Gonzalez was remanded to the Essex County Correctional Facility based on the charges he faced in Newark. It was not immediately clear whether McKinney and/or Velez were on remand.

At around 2 a.m., Nov. 29, responding police officers arrived at the 514 Kearny Ave. Exxon to find the glass entrance to the mini-mart smashed in with a ransacked interior. The station and mini-mart were closed at the time. The suspects were able to get away with the mart’s ATM.

The three suspects reportedly smashed the mini-mart’s front-door window with a crowbar to gain entry and then loaded the ATM into the aforementioned stolen Range Rover.

Antonio Moyano, principal of Roosevelt School in Kearny, announces the following students who have attained principal’s honors or honors for the first marking period of the 2022-2023 school year.