e-Newspaper for Jan. 25, 2023

HARRISON MATRICIDE

Police caution tape can be seen where the body of 67-year-old Rose Massoni was discovered by Harrison police in the early-morning hours of Tuesday, Jan. 17. Ms. Massoni was pronounced dead at University Hospital, Newark, an hour after police arrived. Left inset, news vans from New York at the scene. At right, a Harrison patrol vehicle was still at the scene hours after police were first sent to Harrison Gardens.

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

A67-year-old Harrison woman was stabbed to death by her son in the early-morning hours of Tuesday, Jan. 17, and the man is in custody, facing first-degree murder charges among others, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez said.

According to Suarez:

That morning, at 1:18 p.m., the Harrison Police Department was alerted to a stabbing at the Harrison Gardens apartment complex and when they arrived at the scene, police found two woman suffering from stab wounds.

Both were immediately transported to University Hospital, Newark, where Rosa Massoni was pronounced dead at 2 a.m.

An investigation determined Massoni (and the

other victim) were stabbed by Massoni’s son, 32-year-old Victor Temoche, also of Harrison.

The other victim, a 50-year-old Harrison resident, is believed to be Temoche’s aunt, numerous sources familiar with the case, tell The Observer. She remains hospitalized with serious injuries and was in stable condition as of presstime.

Temoche, meanwhile, faces a slew of charges,

KPD: Man shot behind ear whilst driving 1&9 in South Kearny

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

AJersey City man driving on Rts. 1&9 in South Kearny Jan. 16 was shot behind his ear, unexpectedly, and Kearny police are trying to determine how and why the

incident happened.

According to Capt. Timothy Wagner, the Kearny PD’s public-information officer, that day, at 6:29 p.m., Kearny officers were dispatched to a 911 call reporting a shooting on 1&9 near the Passaic River Bridge. Kearny officers arrived to find Jersey City

police already at the scene as the 911 call was reportedly initially routed to bordering Jersey City instead of Kearny.

The victim had already been rushed to Jersey City Medical Center by EMS for treatment.

A preliminary investigation indi-

cates a 43-year-old Jersey City man was driving a Ford Explorer SUV southbound on Truck Rts. 1&9 with his 40-year-old wife in the passenger seat when he was struck by a projectile that entered through the vehicle’s tailgate and struck him near the ear.

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

Belleville’s longtime clerk retires, is honored by Melham & council

HCPO says suspect fatally stabbed his mother, 67, and also stabbed aunt in early-morning incident

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

Since it’s yet to snow, the Township of Nutley’s Department of Public Works is advising residents to prepare for winter by issuing several tips. While some of these tips are Nutley-specific, especially the parking regulations, most are applicable for all towns in The Observer’s readership area.

“The cold and snow will be here soon,” Nutley Mayor Joseph P. Scarpelli, the township’s Public Works commissioner, said. “And we want to make sure everyone is safe and prepared.”

n The Nutley DPW typically starts the plowing process after 1 to 2 inches of snow has fallen. When possible use grassy areas to pile snow. When shoveling, pile the majority of the snow to the left of your driveway, when facing your house. This helps when the snow plows come by, as there is less snow to be plowed in front of your driveway.

The shoveling of snow into the road is not permitted. The snow

plows will only push the snow back into your driveway or perhaps your neighbors drive. Do not bury fire hydrants with snow. Assist emergency responders by clearing snow away from hydrants. As a reminder, all property owners are required to clear snow from their sidewalks within 24 hours of the end of the snow event.

n Be a good neighbor. Check on the elderly and assist those in need. Help to keep exit doors from homes clear. With the expected wind of a snow storm, snow drifts may pile up blocking the means of entrance or exit from a structure.

n To aid the Public Works Department in clearing streets, please do not throw snow back into the street. Do not plow snow into the roadway. Face the snow blower chute back onto the grassy part of your property. Throwing snow back into the street only prolongs the cleanup efforts and may result in ice being formed in front of your property or driveway.

n Unfortunately, snow-plowing operations may cause snow to be pushed and cover the apron of your driveway. If possible, clear the apron of your driveway only after snow plowing efforts have ceased. If you

must shovel your apron before snow plowing has ended, be prepared for your apron to be covered over, sometimes repeatedly.

n Please do not confront any township employee plowing snow they are only doing their job and trying to keep the roads clear and everyone safe.

n It is also important to remember, if temperatures drop below 15º, the effectiveness of road salt to clear ice and snow from roadways becomes limited.

n Whenever snow has fallen and the accumulation is such that it covers the streets, an emergency shall exist and no vehicle shall be parked on all streets, both sides, the entire length. No on-street parking will be allowed until the snow emergency is rescinded.

This also includes handicap onstreet parking. Parking prohibitions shall remain in effect after the snow has stopped falling, the streets have been plowed sufficiently, and that parking will not interfere with the

Observer file photo See SNOW,

Cavanaugh retires as Belleville clerk after 30+ years of service

By Ron Leir ronleir423@gmail.com

Alongtime township employee characterized by Belleville Mayor Michael Melham (in photo) as “part of the fabric of our community” is retiring Feb. 1, after 20+ years as municipal clerk.

Kelly Cavanaugh (also in photo) is being replaced by Alberto Cabrera, who has served the past 14 years in the same role for the town of Guttenberg. He’ll start the job in Belleville at an annual salary of $115,000, according to township manager Anthony Iacono.

Cavanaugh began her career as a civil servant 31 years ago, was promoted to deputy clerk in January 1994 and to municipal clerk in January 2003, following the death of Mary Lou Hood in November 2002.

During her tenure as clerk, Cavanaugh served under 11 township managers and five mayors.

A proclamation presented at the Jan/ 10 meeting of the

mayor and Township Council acknowledged her dedication to her job, whether keeping accurate notes on municipal meetings, serving as custodian of records, administering local elections or issuing local licenses and permits, “she did it all with grace, integrity and an ingrained sense of duty.”

Cavanaugh, whose husband Richard is a deputy fire chief with the Belleville Fire Department, said she plans to do some traveling following the completion of her municipal duties.

Melham lauded Cavanaugh’s work ethic as “unparalleled,” adding that “it’s not an easy job,” given the pressures she has faced fielding growing numbers of requests for information filed under the state Open Public Records Act and handling municipal election-related disputes.

“She has earned the admiration and respect of all who have known her,” Melham said, and her replacement “will have tough shoes to fill.”

In other business transacted at the Jan. 10 session, the mayor and council deadlocked 3-3, with Councilwoman Marie Strumolo-Burke absent, on a letter of support for a proposed cannabis cultivation facility to be operated by Growing Buddies LLC on Main Street, across from the old K-Mart site.

Township residents Phyllis

and Vincent Frantantoni spoke out against the township permitting any cannabis businesses to operate locally, to which the mayor responded the law allows residents to order home deliveries of marijuana or to drive to an out-of-town retailer and return home with the product.

Michael Sheldon wondered why Growing Buddies was reportedly “not registered as

a business with the state, nor does it have a state-issued certificate of approval.”

In any event, the tie vote by the governing body killed the measure, with Melham, Third Ward Councilman Vincent Cozzarelli and Councilwoman-at-large Naomy DePeña voting for it while Deputy Mayor/Councilman-at-large Tom Graziano,

INJURY ATTORNEYS

There are scams — and then there are scams where the scammers really have a brass set. This one takes the cake for that.

The Nutley Police Department is reporting scammers have been calling township residents recently with the Caller ID spoofed to make it seem as if the incoming call is coming from the Nutley Police Department’s main

phone number.

Thing is, no one from the Nutley PD is actually making these calls — it’s all a bunch of scammers.

The scammers call and identify themselves as “officers” from the “police

department.”

Several residents were weary of the calls they got and contacted the PD. Fortunately.

But there’s no telling how many people got the phone calls and fell for it.

In all the calls, residents were advised to contact officers at a phone number not owned or operated by the Nutley PD.

“There are people out there who are very clever at leading innocent people to believe what they want them to; however, they will take everything you have,” Police Commissioner Alphonse Petracco said.

“So please be cautious and call police directly at (973) 284-4940 to determine the validity of any unknown callers.”

Larry Bennett, Delfim

Bennett takes his oath with his family looking on and granddaughter Kelly holding the Bible. Aside from Sarabando,

this year for a full term as he is filling unexpired term of Francisco Nasciemento.

Contributed photos

DINNER & SHOW RETURNS

TO KEARNY HIGH SCHOOL FOR TOWN’S SENIOR CITIZENS

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

In the last three years, there have been so many things canceled, so many traditions put on hold, because of COVID-19, that it would be nearly impossible to list them all. Theater performances including those at Kearny High School were among those casualties, including the dinner and show often put on for the town’s senior citizens the week of the shows.

But from that comes great news both are back this spring, and the Senior Citizen Appreciation Dinner and Show Night is set for Kearny residents in their golden years for Monday, March 13, Kathleen Astrella, the school district’s supervisor of the visual and performing arts, tells The Observer.

“We’re so glad to be able to bring this back,” Astrella said. “We’re looking forward to having senior citizens in for dinner and the show. The kids will be ready to put on a tremendous show and the culinary arts program will serve a great meal in the process.”

Doors to event the King Street entrance to Kearny HS, will open that day at 4 p.m. Dinner fully prepared by the KHS Culinary Art Department begins at 4:30 p.m., will be served in the beautiful KHS Atrium and includes a menu of butternut squash bisque, herb-roasted chicken with sage stuffing and French green beans. Dessert will be a plated Chef’s choice with a takeaway of a homemade scone. Coffee, tea and water will also be served.

The show The Observer will feature a preview of it as it gets closer is “Shrek” and begins at 6:30 p.m.

The event is open to all

Kearny senior citizens there is no cap or lottery to attend but advance registration is required.

Senior citizens interested in attending must RSVP to Tammy Munro at (201) 955-5048 by Feb. 24. When calling, please let her know if you have any dietary restrictions. If the weather is bad, the snow date is the next day, March 14, also beginning at 4 p.m.

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.

Attendees will get to see ‘Shrek,’ and a gourmet meal prepped by school’s Culinary Arts Department

‘We’re so glad to be able to bring this back. We’re looking forward to having senior citizens in for dinner and the show.’

— Kathleen Astrella Supervisor of visual & performing arts

OPINION & VIEWPOINTS

COMMENTARY

Rose: Maybe Canessa thinks we should ban swimming next time someone drowns?

The tragic loss of Baby Giovanna remained on my mind for days on end after it happened just over a year ago. She was 2 months old when she was allegedly killed at the hands of her father at a home on Schuyler Avenue in North Arlington.

I won’t repeat this man’s name because just the sight of it is sickening enough.

I tried to get this loss of the brain, but it took a long time, frankly. It caused me to wonder just what he did to his own daughter inside that house in the weeks leading up to her death.

It caused me to wonder how the mother sat by, apparently idly, and did so little to stop whatever it was. It caused me to feel anger, sadness, rage. And I suspect I was not alone with these feelings.

But then I recalled the admonition of North Arlington Mayor Daniel H. Pronti, his words which served as a stark reminder that it is possible — not definite, nonetheless — that perhaps if someone heard or saw something happening to Giovanna and had spoken up, she could still be with us today.

Said Pronti, a retired Montclair police sergeant:

“By now, most of our residents should be hearing this very troubling news involving the loss of life of a baby, at the hands of her parents. Our police department has been investigating this horrible series of events for several weeks, which involves a family, who had been renting an apartment along Schuyler Avenue.

“Whenever something like this occurs in our tight-knit borough, it impacts everyone, whether they were longtime residents or a family simply renting for a short time inbetween their next destination. I implore us all to look out for one another. Report any and all suspicious activity. If you suspect child abuse, let someone know. You can make these reports by ways of anonymity. You could save a life.

“We have been seeing domestic acts of violence far too often across the country. Let’s do our part to help. Remember, we are a community and we are all in this together. Let’s all make a difference. Say a prayer for the soul of that defenseless infant, Baby Giovanna, who lost her life. May God bless us all.”

One year later, I felt a strong need to repeat Pronti’s words because they said so much, so profoundly, then and now.

So we’ll leave it here, only to echo that though it may seem elementary, seeing or hearing something demands we say something. There are no exceptions to this notion.

May the beautiful soul of Baby Giovanna rest in God’s eternal embrace, now and forever.

—

Back in the day, there was a professional football player named Hardy Brown, who once knocked out the entire backfield of the San Francisco 49ers million dollar backfield in an exhibition game.

His tackles were so lethal that the referees would check his shoulder pads for metal plates before games, and teams were so fearful of him that they offered bounties to any player who could take him out.

Then there was Lenny Ford, nicknamed The Hangman, for his tackling specialty, and Dick Butkus. who many are on record as saying they feared carrying the ball when he was on the field.

A brutal sport, not meant for everyone no doubt, but a sport that has suffered one on-the-field fatality — Chuck Hughes in 1971 — in its entire existence.

So yes, I view Kevin Canessa’s commentary on “Why is there so much love for American football’’ in light of what we witnessed happen to Damar Hamlin to

be reactionary. Reactionary yes, because so many saw it live on Monday Night football.

In fairness to Canessa, he writes we can only speculate that the hit to the chest is what caused Hamlin’s heart to stop.

In fact, young athletes are experiencing heartrelated problems at such an alarming rate recently that the CDC is wondering if the COVID vaccine might be what is causing these problems in young people.

Where I totally part ways with Canessa is his wondering if people tune into football games in

OP ED By Armand Rose North Arlington

hopes of seeing something barbaric.

I’m sure he knows that when people yell kill the umpire, or crush the quarterback they don’t mean it literally.

People die on pickle ball, tennis, and basketball courts. In swimming pools and the ocean from issues unrelated to their swimming abilities. Should we ban everything that puts us at risk?

Finally, if you have ever competed on a football field or any team sport for that matter, you know the sacrifices teammates make for each other and the character it builds.

You might not have met a teammate or someone you competed against for 50 years but when you do and shake his hand it is a special handshake, with mutual respect. A feeling that those who want to do away with any sport that requires contact will never know.

In Memoriam

Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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

Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster

KEVIN

A. CANESSA JR.

Editor’s note: This commentary, though slightly edited, first appeared in the Jan. 26, 2022 edition of The Observer.

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A year ago, Pronti’s words rang strong. They still do to this very day ...

KPD: Woman threw iPhone at her wife & busted her lip

By Capt. Timothy Wagner Kearny Police Department

On Jan. 11 at 9:01 a.m., police dispatch received several calls of a fight at a residence. Officer Travis Witt and several backup officers were dispatched. A 48-year-old woman reported she had an argument with her 54-year-old wife and the wife threw an iPhone at her, striking her in the face and lacerating her lip.

Officers arrested the wife on charges of simple assault and weapon possession. She was later released with summonses.

On Jan. 9 at 9:53 a.m., Officer Sean Podolski was dispatched to the Walgreen’s at 248 Kearny Ave. on a report of a shoplifting. A store manager described a man to the officer who allegedly filled a bag with $354.19 worth of overthe-counter sleep aids and analgesics and then fled on a BMX bicycle without paying.

Officer Nick Funk located the suspect minutes later near 450 Bergen Ave. After further investigation, Officer Funk arrested Dana J. Gallagher, 45, of Carteret. Officers charged Gallagher with shoplifting. He was held at the Hudson County Jail on an arrest warrant issued by the Middlesex County Superior Court for violating a court order.

On Jan. 10 at 2:43 p.m., Officer Damian Kolodziej and several backup officers responded to a domestic dispute at a private home. There, a 17-year-old reported she had an argument with her 18-year-old boyfriend concerning fidelity and the argument got physical.

Specifically, the victim said the suspect blocked the door to keep her from leaving, then pushed her onto a bed where she hit her back. The suspect then reportedly hit her on the leg and grabbed her arms before brandishing a razor and threatening the victim. The victim was eventually able to talk her way out of the room and contact her mother, but she sustained lasting pain to her leg.

Officers arrested the suspect on charges of simple assault, terroristic threats, criminal restraint and weapon possession crimes. He was held at the Hudson County Jail.

On Jan. 11 at 8:51 a.m., Officer John Fearon and Sgt. Phil Finch were dispatched to a dispute at a residence. Officers were told Christopher D. Zapata, 25, of Belleville, came to the house to see the victim’s 31-year-old son. However, an argument broke out between the victim and Zapata in which Zapata allegedly threatened to come back with a gun and shoot the victim and her 16-yearold nephew.

Officers arrested Zapata on a charge of terroristic threats.

He was held at the county jail in South Kearny.

On Jan. 11 at 7:14 p.m., Officer Danny Maganinho took a report of domestic violence at police headquarters. A 39-year-old Kearny woman reported she has a restraining order against her 41-year-old coparent who resides in North Arlington.

The victim reported the co-parent harassed her by calling her friends, family members, child’s school and therapist making claims to include that the victim is a prostitute and is promiscuous. The man was also alleged to have sent harassing videos to the victim’s family members.

When the suspect appeared at KPD HQ at 8 p.m. to exchange custody of the couple’s child (some parents exchange custody of their children in the police station lobby by court order or recommendation), officers arrested him.

The man was charged with contempt of court and also held on an outstanding Bloomfield Township arrest warrant charging contempt (no bail) from a separate incident.

The man was remanded to the Hudson County Jail.

On Jan. 12 at 3:45 p.m., Sgt. Jay Ward and Officers Fearon and Ellesse Ogando were dispatched to a report of two women shoplifting

POLICE BEAT

at ShopRite. A store manager alleged Ashley N. Anderson, 28, of Newark, avoided scanning certain merchandise at a selfcheckout and placed “paid for” bags on top of unpaid items as a ruse.

She allegedly then tried to leave the store with $41.34 worth of unpaid-for merchandise.

The manager also reported witnessing Ieschia J. Cameron, 30, of East Orange, conceal snow crab legs worth

$30.73 inside her jacket in an attempt to deprive the store of their retail value.

Both women were arrested and charged with shoplifting.

They were both later released with summonses.

On Jan. 12 at 9:43 p.m., Officer Anthony Oliveira queried the license plate of a double-parked Mercedes on Brighton Avenue and learned both the car’s registration and the owner’s license were suspended. When Officer Oliveira asked driver Roger H. Jaramillo, 34, of Elizabeth, to step out of the car, he said he saw a collection of empty Heineken beer bottles in the

driver’s door compartment and backseat, and then found a small Ziploc bag containing white cocaine residue in Jaramillo’s pocket.

Officer Oliveira also found a glass “crack pipe” under the front passenger seat.

Jaramillo was arrested and charged by summons with possession of drug paraphernalia. He was issued traffic summonses for driving with a suspended license and registration, double parking, failure to surrender a suspended license, and open container of alcoholic beverage in a vehicle.

Jaramillo was later released.

Name: Tel:

HCCC & NJRC team up for phlebotomy-training program

The next time someone draws your blood, it may just be the technician is someone who had issues in the New Jersey court system — and who has had a significant change in fortune for the better.

That’s because Hudson County Community College President Christopher Reber and New Jersey Reentry Corporation Founder and Chairman and former New Jersey Gov. James E. McGreevey have established of a phlebotomy technician certification program leading to industry recognized credentials from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), the pair announced Jan. 11 at a new conference.

The program is designed solely for court-involved individuals.

McGreevey and Reber were joined at the event by state and HCCC officials and NJRC participants.

Reber said the training program is funded by NJ HealthWorks, a program sponsored by the United States Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, and administered by the New Jersey Community College Health Profession Consortium Partners.

The first program class of about a dozen students begin training Jan. 23, 2023.

Classes will be conducted by HCCC faculty at the Reentry

Training and Employment Center in Kearny.

“We are proud to partner with Gov. McGreevey and NJRC in developing and providing this phlebotomy training program,” Reber said. “This is a life-changing opportunity, exclusively for court-involved women and men, that offers a pathway to well-paying, in-demand careers. This program also addresses a critical national need for professionals in this

sector of health care.”

McGreevey had similar sentiments

“This phlebotomy training for court-involved persons to become a certified phlebotomy technician is a landmark course. This is the first New Jersey phlebotomy training program solely focused on the court-involved population. This three-month training program will require significant academic and substantial clinical training

hours resulting in a professional phlebotomy career. The successful completion of the training will provide for national certification through the National Healthcareer Association.

“We are honored to partner with HCCC in our shared advocacy mission and commitment to second chances. We celebrate the importance of this phlebotomy training course, which continues to highlight the need for ‘industry-recognized credentials’ through job training for the reentry population.”

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that phlebotomy — the science of drawing blood intravenously — is one of the fastest-growing career sectors in the country with a projection of 21,500 openings each year over the next decade. The 2021 median pay for phlebotomists is $37,380 per year.

— CANESSA

HCCC and NJRC officials gathered to announce the new program earlier this month.

SPORTS & RECREATION

Damian Weaver, Jimmy Mullen

claim second Bergen County wrestling championships

On-court ‘incident’ leads to Kards being banned from NJSIAA boys’ basketball tournament

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

The Kearny boys’ basketball team has been barred from the upcoming state tournament because of an on-court incident that occurred during the Kardinals’ game against University Academy Charter on Jan. 10.

Kearny received the news from the NJSIAA a few days after reviewing the events from that game.

from the state tournament. It was determined four Kearny players had wandered away from the bench and onto the court.

State rules also mandate players ejected from a game are automatically suspended for the next two games, which for Kearny were losses to Hoboken and Bayonne.

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Damian Weaver and Jimmy Mullen once again made history at the BCCA George Jockish Bergen County Wrestling Tournament.

On Sunday at Rockland Community College in Suffern, NY, Weaver, Lyndhurst’s star middleweight, won his second Bergen County championship when he defeated Westwood’s Gavin Seiler by a 7-1 decision in the 157-pound final.

A year earlier, Weaver won the Bergen County title at 150 pounds becoming Lyndhurst’s first county champion since 2000.

“It means a lot to me. Not too many people get to say they are a two-time Bergen County champ,” Weaver said. “But none of this is possible without any of my coaches.

“I’m blessed with great coaches who are constantly pushing me and staying on top of me in practice to push me to

my limits.”

Weaver’s title capped off a brilliant weekend for the uncommitted senior. On Saturday’s first day, he was selected as the Most Outstanding Wrestler in the Public A pod, winning three consecutive matches by pin.

A few matches later, Mullen, the Kearny native and St. Joseph Regional star joined Weaver in the select company of multi-time winners. Mullen repeated as the 285-pound champion, defeating Paramus Catholic’s Max Acciardi, by an 8-1 decision.

Mullen, a two-time state champion and Virginia Tech commit, defeated Acciardi in last year’s 285-pound final by decision as well.

In total, the Lyndhurst-North Arlington team had three medal winners. In addition to Weaver, Kieran McNeil took fifth at 126 pounds and Tommy Montillo finished eight at 175 pounds.

Also, at Rockland Community College, the BCWCA hosted the Bergen County Invitational, its fourth annual girls wrestling tournament, which is open to all New Jersey schools Bloomfield’s legendary Kira Pipkins took home her fourth Bergen County title when she defeated Newton’s Liliana Zaku-Ramos, 4-1, in the 126 pound final. Pipkins, a threetime state champion, also became the first New Jersey girls wrestler to win 100 matches. Bloomfield’s Reno Prochilo won the 185 pound championship when she pinned Jade Hahn of Donovan Catholic in the final.

At 114 pounds, Ava Krzykalski of Lyndhurst took third place when she pinned Nutley’s Mariah Koster in the third place match.

Koster and the Bloomfield duo of Leanna Noel (152 pounds) and Saharia Quamina (185) all took fourth place in their respective weight classes.

“Of course it’s disheartening. The kids have been working hard all season, and had a solid record,” Kardinals athletic director Vincent Almeida said. “It was an unfortunate incident. One bad decision has affected two teams in a game that seemed under control, a routine, normal game.”

Early in the fourth quarter of Kearny’s 49-30 win, a player on the University Academy Charter reportedly punched a Kardinals player in the face. Players on the floor convened, but no further punches were thrown. The game was halted at that point with Kearny under the impression no one had been ejected besides for the one University player who threw a punch.

However, further discussion and review by the officials determined multiple players from both teams had left the bench and walked onto the court, which according to the National Federation of High School Sports is an automatic ejection.

NJSIAA rules state any team that has three or more ejections during a season is automatically disqualified

“Anyone who did walk onto the court did not do it to escalate the situation or harm anyone,” Almeida said. “They were not rushing to the group or anything, they were simply drawn in by watching and walking toward it. There was no intention to enter the fracas, but the rules are the rules. We’re going to do a better job of making sure we’re more aware that when an unexpected situation occurs that our players do the right thing.”

The incident is an unfortunate and shocking turn of events for a Kearny team that was enjoying an unexpectedly strong start to the season despite facing significant adversity.

Despite the loss of last season’s leading scorer William Mullins as he battles Leukemia, the Kardinals were 7-2 at the time of the NJSIAA’s decision, matching the win total of the previous two years.

Kearny was in position to potentially qualify for the state tournament for the first time since 2017, which was the last season in which the Kardinals had finished with a winning record. According to Almeida, the incident does not affect the team’s eligibility for next month’s Hudson County Tournament.

Photo by Jason Bernstein

Damian Weaver

Bloomfield wins

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Terry Iavarone knows that his Bloomfield track teams don’t have the luxury of depth the way nearby rivals Montclair, West Orange and Livingston do. Take in point, short a hurdler on the girls 4x55 Shuttle Hurdles event,

Iavarone turned to junior Rylie Sayers, who had never jumped a hurdle, to fill out the lineup.

On Saturday in the first event at the Essex County Indoor Relay Championships at the Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex, Bloomfield’s quartet of Sayers, Mercedes Cruz-Fletcher, Valerie Refuse

track title of any kind

and Catherine Parelli, running together for just the second time in history, delivered a shocking, championship winning time of 38.80.

Cruz-Fletcher, the anchor, chased down three runners to give Bloomfield its first ever indoor or outdoor County title in the Shuttle Hurdles.

Prior to Saturday, the Bengals had ranked No. 6 in Essex County in the event.

“Riley is completely new to the event,” Iavarone said. “Although a seasoned veteran, she never jumped a hurdle until last month when the team was desperate for a fourth member of the team.

“The shuttle hurdle team only competed one time prior to winning the Essex County Relay title.”

Their performance was one of several eye-opening results by Observer area teams from Bloomfield and Nutley.

Overall, Bloomfield took fourth place, its highest placing ever in the team standings, with 30 points. Nutley took sixth with 12 points.

For the Maroon Raiders, it was a day that saw two school records fall in convincing fashion.

In the Distance Medley Relay, Nutley took second place with a time of 13:31.38,

more than 13 seconds faster than its previous time. Standout freshman Meya Ranges ran the first leg, the 1,200, followed by Adrianna Quinn (400), Marcella Blancato (800) and sophomore Jaylin Romero in the 1,600.

Romero, a sophomore, ran the fastest split on Nutley’s 4x800 team at 2:26, which head coach Gerald Ryan admits is rare to see someone who normally specializes in distance running and cross country.

“In the last couple of years or so, (the 800 has) really become more of a long sprint with how fast the run has become, but it just shows the range that she has,” Ryan said. “She’s a very, very talented kid and she’s a competitor too. When she gets on the starting line I see the intensity in her eyes and she just goes out and battles every single race. There’s a

fire burning in her belly to compete and succeed.”

Romero was the first leg on Nutley’s record-breaking 4x800 team, followed by Ranges, senior Emma Kirby and Blancato, who is back in top form after struggling with a minor knee injury early in the season.

Their time of 10:31.26 was good for fourth place in the event, more than 17 seconds faster than the previous record.

“When I saw them perform at Group 3 Relays (a week earlier), I knew that the County Relays, once we got on that super-fast track at Ocean Breeze against teams like Montclair and West Orange and Verona and some of the County powers, we would do well,” said Ryan. “I had complete faith that they would not only break the records, but destroy the records which is what they did.”

The Bloomfield girls took second place in two other events. The quartet of Samyah Wilson, Angel Cruz-Fletcher, Sayers and Ashley Toro ran a time of 4:26.61 in the Sprint Medley Relay. The Bengals also finished second in the

Shot Put team as Albina Frangu (34-6.25) and Thalia Bell (28-5) were third and ninth respectively on their individual throws.

On the boys side, Bloomfield seniors Cristian Armstrong and Zaire LaRue took gold in the High Jump Relay for the Bengals’ first ever title in the event.

Armstrong’s jump of 6-0 was tied for the best in the meet and LaRue’s jump of 5-10 was third.

While both Armstrong and LaRue are experienced jumpers, this is their first time competing during the indoor season as they had played basketball their first three years in high school.

“As a coach, I am ecstatic that Cristian and Zaire finally decided to come out for Winter Track & Field,” Iavarone said. “This will be a springboard for the Spring season where the duo hopes to repeat as Essex County Champions, along with winning the Long and Triple Jump Relays.”

As a team, Bloomfield was tied for eighth on the boys side with 11 points and Nutley finished 12th in the 14-team field.

Premier Car e TALK S

The thin wall between nasal cavities, called the nasal septum, can become displaced or “deviated,” making one passage smaller than the other. Depending on the degree of deviation, patients can experience congestion, crusting, or bloody noses caused by breathing difficulties, reduced airflow, and nasal blockages. Although some septal displacements are asymptomatic, common symptoms may include difficulty breathing in one or both nostrils, frequent nosebleeds, facial pain, labored breathing during sleep, and discomfort on the deviated area of the nose. Doctors may choose medications to reduce swelling that contributes to blockage and congestion. In some cases, they may opt for surgical correction of the deviated septum in order to

permanently alleviate symptoms and discomfort while correcting the patient’s breathing patterns.

Whether you’ve had a deviated septum from birth or developed one after a face or nose injury, your doctor likely can diagnose the problem with a physical exam. A nasal steroid spray can sometimes correct the issue, or you may need surgery to straighten the septum. 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. A deviated septum is usually the result of an injury, often occurring during contact sports or car accidents, that moves the nasal septum out of place.

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

Premier Care Associates

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

Lyndhurst PD swears-in 7 new SLEO 1B officers

of West Hudson

Dr. Prakash J. Doshi

Dr. Hector Aguilar

The Lyndhurst Police Department has seven new Class 1B Special Law Enforcement Officers, all of whom were sworn in Jan. 10. The new officers are Mark Orlando, Nicholas J. Caporrino, Alexis J. Rossi, Daniel S. Rogers, Matthew E. Montoya, Nina Nassy and John C. Fernandez and took their oaths administered by Mayor and Public Safety Commissioner Robert B. Giangeruso. ‘We commend each of our new special officers for completing their basic training at the Bergen County Police Academy this past December. We wish each of our new special police officers much success and safety in their time with us.’

HCPO offering program to help houses of worship remain safe

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

The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, in coordination with the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, hosts a Houses of Worship Security Program Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023, intended to provide faith leaders with security resources to keep their communities safe.

The event takes place at the Hudson County Schools of Technology, 1 High Tech Way in Secaucus, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Speakers will include

DERMATOCHALASIS AND VISION

Dermatochalasis is the medical term for excess eyelid skin, which can sometimes interfere with vision when the upper eyelid is affected. It is most often caused by the natural aging process because elastin, one of the proteins in connective tissue, is produced less over time. Males, people with a higher body mass index, and those who’ve had a prior facial trauma or surgery are at higher risk for the condition. In addition to obstructing vision, excess eyelid skin can cause eyeglasses to fit improperly or make contact lenses difficult to use. It can also cause dry, irritated eyes and persistent headaches due to the strain on facial muscles surrounding the eyes. Blepharoplasty is the surgical procedure used to correct dermatochalasis.

When it’s time to have your

eyes checked make sure you are seeing the right eye care professional for your needs. Ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians are members of the eye care team. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eye and vision care and is licensed to practice medicine and surgery. This advanced training allows ophthalmologists to diagnose and treat a wider range of conditions than optometrists and opticians. To schedule an appointment, please call 201-896-0096. We are located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. Call 201-896-0007 if you need to reach our optical shop. We accept most insurance.

P.S. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty may be covered by insurance if excess eyelid skin is obstructing vision.

www.delucavision.com

Hauck, Randy Parkes of the NJOHSP Training & Exercise Bureau, Ehtasham Chaudhry of the NJOHSP Operations Bureau, FEMA Faith-Based Coordinator Race Hodges and DHS Protective Security Advisor Dan Schultz.

Topics to be discussed include active-shooter

response training, new state legislative emergency planning requirements for houses of worship and other essential resources available to faith-based organizations.

“As one of the most diverse communities in the country, Hudson County is a melting pot of all races, ethnicities

and religions,” Suarez said. “Houses of worship should be safe spaces for individuals to freely practice their religion, without any concern for their safety. We, along with our state and federal partners, are committed to working with all faith leaders to ensure they have access to resources to keep their congregations safe and prepared in the event of an emergency.”

“The Houses of Worship Security Program is one of many NJOHSP initiatives aimed at ensuring that New Jersey is a safe place to worship,” NJOHSP Director Laurie Doran said. “It’s a collaborative effort coordinated with our federal, state, county and local partners all to provide faith-based communities with essential information, resources and contacts.”

All Hudson County religious leaders, security coordinators and congregations of all faiths and denominations are invited to attend.

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Here are our most common email addresses:

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n EDITORIAL: editorial@theobserver.com.

n ADVERTISING: advertising@theobserver.com.

n OBITS: obituaries@ theobserver.com.

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

DeLuca Vision Consultants

Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez, NJOHSP Division Director Thomas

Genevieve DeMetro

Genevieve DeMetro (nee Kozdron) of Kearny died at home with loving family on Friday, Jan. 20, 2023.

She was 93.

The funeral will be conducted from the Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Ave., Harrison, on Friday, Jan. 27, at 10 a.m. A funeral Mass will follow at 11 a.m. at St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny. Her entombment will take place in Holy Cross Chapel Mausoleum, North Arlington.

Friends may visit Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 10 a.m. If you would like to send a condolence to her family, please visit www.mulliganfh. com.

Born in Harrison, Genevieve moved to Kearny in 1953. She worked as a postal clerk at the Kearny Post Office for many years, retiring in 1989. Being a woman of strong Catholic faith, Genevieve was involved with many of our local churches, namely: She was a member of the Holy Cross Church choir, Harrison, and a member of the local chapter of the Polish Women’s Alliance at Our Lady of Czestochowa

OBITUARIES

Church in Harrison. She was also a parishioner of St. Stephen’s Church.

Throughout her life, Genevieve enjoyed traveling the world with her husband.

Predeceased by her husband John F. DeMetro Jr. (2017), Genevieve is survived by her loving children, John DeMetro, Gregory DeMetro (Linda) and Christine Kondreck (Karl), cherished grandchildren, Kimberly Sliker (Scott), Lauren DeMetro-Dalias (Kevin), Mathew Kondreck and Mark DeMetro (Teresa) and dear great-grandchildren, Matthew Jr., Ava and Chase. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer’s Association Attn: Donor Services, 225 North Michigan Ave., Floor 17, Chicago, Ill. 60601, in loving memory of Genevieve.

Richard Kennel

Richard Kennel of Harrison died at home on Friday, January 13, 2023. He was 82 years old.

Private funeral services

are under the direction of Mulligan Funeral Home, Harrison.

Born in New York, New York, he lived in Flushing, Queens, before settling in Harrison in 1978. Rich worked as a limousine driver for Wolf Barney Livery in Kearny for many years. Prior to that, he worked as a taxi driver in Manhattan, and he was a member of the Taxi Cab Union.

He served his country in the Navy Airforce during the Vietnam War and his highest achieved rank was S quadrons duty officer

Richard earned a B.S. degree in architecture & science from New York University, New York.

Richard was an innovator and inventor. In his lifetime he was able to obtain a few patents.

Predeceased by his wife of 57 years, Mary Ann Kennel (nee O’Grady), Richard is survived by his nieces and nephews, William Heutele, Joan (Raul) Sloezen, Rosemary Kaufman, Patricia (Jose) Maderro and Michael O’Grady, James Kennel, Suzanne Nobile

If you would like to send a condolence message to his family, please visit www. mulliganfh.com.

Leonardo Balboa

Leonardo Balboa died Jan. 19, 2023.

He was 81.

Born in Spain, he lived in Newark before moving to Kearny in 1982

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

Leonardo was the husband of the late Celia (nee Treinta) and beloved father of Leonardo Balboa (his wife Tanya) and Maria Balboa. Brother of Leonor Balboa, Consuelo Balboa and the late Miguel, Manuel and Teodoro Balboa, he is also survived by his grandson Daniel.

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

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Pauline E. Roman

Pauline E. Roman (nee Videyko), affectionately known as Polly, died peacefully at her home in East Newark on Jan. 20, 2023.

She was 96.

At her request, the arrangements are private and being handled through the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home in Kearny.

Pauline was the wife of the late Walter Roman and was the beloved mother of Walter Roman, Paul Roman (Lisa) and Mark Roman (Virginia). She is also survived by her loving grandchildren Paul, Caitlin, Alexandra and Brielle.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Christ Community Church, 136 Wykoff Ave., Waldwick, N.J. 07463 in her memory.

Amateur Radio Winter Field Day January 28 and 29 will demonstrate science, skill & service

No. 1302, 300 Belgrove Drive, Kearny.

Since 2006, ham radio operators across North America have established temporary ham radio stations in public locations

during Winter Field Day to showcase the science and skill of amateur radio, as well as their own resilience under unpredictable weather conditions.

The event is open to the

public and all are encouraged to attend.

WHARC members will set up temporary stations in the VFW hall to make contacts with other amateur radio operators around the world for 24 hours. Members of the public are welcome to visit between 2 p.m. and 11 p.m. on Saturday and between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Sunday.

For more than 100 years, amateur radio — also called ham radio — has allowed people from all walks of life to experiment with electronics

battery-powered transmitter and communicate halfway around the world,” WHARC President Jim Miller said. “In today’s electronic do-ityourself (DIY) environment, ham radio remains one of the best ways for people to learn about electronics, physics, meteorology and numerous other scientific disciplines. In addition, amateur radio is a huge asset to any community during disasters or emergencies if the standard communication infrastructure goes down.”

and communications techniques, as well as provide a free public service to their communities during a disaster or emergency, all without needing a cell phone or the Internet.

Winter Field Day demonstrates ham radio’s ability to work reliably under any conditions from almost any location and create an independent communications network.

“It’s easy for anyone to pick up a computer or smartphone, connect to the Internet and communicate, with no knowledge of how the devices function or connect to each other,” Larry Maleszewski, WHARC Vice President, said.

“Hams can literally throw a wire in a tree for an antenna, connect it to a

Anyone may become a licensed amateur radio operator. There are more than 725,000 licensed hams in the United States, as young as 9 and as old as 100. And with clubs such as West Hudson Amateur Radio Club, it’s easy for anybody to get involved right here in the area around Kearny, Harrison, and East Newark.

WHARC was founded by local amateur radio operators in 2021 and has events, in person, and on the air every month. The club welcomes anyone with an interest in radio and electronics to join, regardless of whether they currently have an Amateur Radio license.

For more information about WHARC or Amateur Radio, visit www.wharc.org.

‘Hams can literally throw a wire in a tree for an antenna, connect it to a battery-powered transmitter and communicate halfway around the world

— Jim Miller WHARC President

CLERK

Second Ward Councilman Steve Rovell and Fourth Ward Councilman John Notari opposed it.

To date, Belleville has endorsed one cannabis cultivator, Siembra LLC, to operate at 523-527 Cortlandt St.; and four cannabis retailers—La Vida Gardens LLC, at 524 Washington Ave.; McBudz LLC, at 709 Washington Ave.; Nevaeh Verde LLC, at 176 Belmont Ave.; and Natural Apothecary LLC, at 27 Washington Ave.

The township can tax each business for up to 2% of the receipts from each sale of cannabis or products created from or which include cannabis. All cannabis business ventures must secure licenses from the state Cannabis Regulatory Commission to operate.

During the public portion of the

SNOW

from Page 2

normal flow of traffic.

By law, any unoccupied vehicle parked or standing in violation shall be deemed a nuisance and a menace to the safe and proper regulation of traffic, and a police officer may provide for the removal of such vehicle.

The owner shall be responsible to pay the reasonable costs of the removal and storage of that vehicle. This situation can be avoided by promptly moving vehicles off the street once snow starts falling.

meeting, one resident griped about the inefficiency of the township’s street-cleaning service, saying that after the sweeper vehicle rides through certain areas — such as Washington Avenue — “you still see tons of debris.”

In general, the resident said, “I like the service, but how come the stuff is still there three days later?”

In his report to the council, Melham said the township is hoping to take possession of the 7.5-acre “Great Lawn” in front of the old Essex County Geriatric Hospital at Belleville and Franklin avenues to preserve it as parkland.

Years ago, the property was subdivided, with the hospital portion slated for conversion to residential apartments but the lawn portion ended up in litigation with a private owner. The township is hoping to use eminent domain get title to the lawn area.

possible death or serious injury.

n Ruptured water lines may lead to extensive damage to a home. During the winter, home owners should take precautions to prevent water lines from freezing.

Seal cracks in doors, windows and foundations.

TIPS & TRICKS

n Make sure to keep portable basketball hoops away from the street and curbs to avoid contact with plows during snow removal.

If you do not plan on playing during the winter, the township recommends placing your portable hoop off the street in a shielded area to keep free of damage.

n In the event of a power outage, please notify PSEG directly at (800) 436-7734.

PSEG needs your account number to track outages and locations requiring restoration of power.

If you utilize a portable gasoline or diesel generator, the equipment should be used outside of your home or building and kept at least 20 feet away.

These machines pose a fire hazard because of the fuels used to run them. They also can cause a carbon monoxide issue when used inside or too close to structures leading to

Small openings concentrate cold air, creating a cold blow torch that can quickly freeze pipes. Open cabinets and closets that contain water lines to allow warm air to circulate around the plumbing (Be sure to remove any harmful cleaners and household chemicals out of the reach of children). Allow cold water to drip through faucets. Running or dripping water can help prevent water lines from freezing; however, even running water can freeze in sub-zero temperatures.

n Please remind children to never build tunnels or snow forts in the snow banks near the street. The force and weight of the snow coming off the plows can collapse the tunnels or forts and harm the child.

Keep sleds and toys out of the street and away from the edge of the road. Snow banks make it difficult for plow drivers to see children playing in these areas.

Children should never play near the edge of the road. Stay away from plows.

If a plow is on your street, children should stay back at least 20 feet or more from the road.

It is best to have children play near the house as the snowplow approaches and stay there until the plow has passed.

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

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).

Tax Assessor The Town of Kearny is seeking an individual to assume the full-time position of Tax Assessor to perform all duties and responsibilities as required by applicable statutes of the State of New Jersey and regulations of appropriate officials of the State of New Jersey and the County of Hudson. The Kearny Tax Assessor shall hold a tax assessor certificate provided for in P.L.1967, c.44 (C. 54:1-35.25 et seq.) and will ensure that all properties in the Town of Kearny are assessed for the purpose of real property taxation. The successful candidate shall attend Mayor and Council meetings and be proficient in the use of various related computer programs (MODIV, CAMA, etc.). The ideal candidate shall be professional, team oriented, responsible, reliable and have a strong motivation to undertake challenging work. Salary is negotiable and shall be commensurate with experience. Please see application and job description on https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ application deadline is 2/28/23 38W04

HARRISON/E.NEWARK

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

HARRISON 1st fl, 1 bed room, kitchen, bath and living room. $1450. 1 year lease required. 1.5 month security, utilities separate, no pets no smoking . 973437-6799 for appointment 38W03

The Town of Kearny is seeking a highly organized and energetic individual to assume the position of Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone (KUEZ) Coordinator. The KUEZ office manages the day-to-day operations of programs that promote economic and community development. Working closely with the KUEZ Board, the Kearny governing body and the State of New Jersey, the KUEZ Coordinator needs to maximize resources, expand program activities and promote Kearny as a destination for living, working and investment. See https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ for application and job description.

Application deadline is 2/28/23 38W04

HIGH QUALITY, AIR CONDITIONED SHOP, WITH GREAT PAY AND BENEFITS!!! $5,000 signing bonus.

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

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 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

Straight job driver or CDL driver 40 hour week Monday - Friday 7AM - 4PM Start $20.00 hour CITY BARREL 46 CORDIER ST IRVINGTON, N.J. 973-465-7800 FAX 973-465-7803 EMAIL citybarrelinc@aol.com 36W03

Driving Instructor

Will train right candidate. Must be reliable. Please email NJDRIVINGSCHOOL@ Hotmail.com or call (201)246-8000 36W03

FT Mechanic position available. Salary range $43,205 – 67,242. Three years exp. in maintenance and repair of various vehicles including trucks & equipment. Welding experience a plus. Valid NJ drivers license with CDL, class B, air brake end. required. https://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/02434.htm

For application go to Town of Kearny Website at https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/application Deadline 2/17/23 38W04

Foundry Company in business since 1921 is seeking an Experienced Shipping Clerk. Responsible for scheduling & planning outgoing shipments, reviewing shipment schedules, provides customer service by handling issues arising in shipping & inventory handling, & trouble shoots shipping issues. Experience working in a fast paced environment while maintaining attention to detail. Forklift experience a plus. Ability to problem solve quickly and prioritize daily tasks according to importance. Salary is competitive, we offer Medical, Vision, Dental & 401k. Experience applicants only.

Please send your resume to HR@campbellfoundry.com or visit our Harrison location at 800 Bergen Street to fill out an application. 38W03

Local Polish Caregiver specialized in Senior care only, non medical. Live in live out, Hardworking, Honest, Quality Work. Speaks English. References available. Call Marlena 201-991-1024 or Leave Message. 38W04

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

KEARNY Renovated 1 BR , 3rd fl. apartment in 3 family home, 145 Maple St – central location, $ 1,500 per month & $2,250 deposit. Available Now. Heat/hot water included Laundry and storage in Basement Must have excellent credit No Smoking & No pets. Call (201)749-2299 between 9 AM to 6 PM. 38W03

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

Campbell

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

LYNDHURST

LYNDHURST Newly renovated. 2nd Floor 2 Br’s, W/D hook up,, separate entrance. Single or Couple preferred. No Smoking/Pets. $2000 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Credit references required. Call between 10am - 7pm (201)3758754 36W03

+ 1 month security. Utilities included (973) 332-5613 36W03

N.ARLINGTON

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

N.ARLINGTON 2 family house on 2nd floor, 3 BR, 1

NUTLEY

MURDER

Continued from Page 1

including first-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder, unlawful possession of a weapon (knife) and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.

After evaluation at a hospital, Temoche was remanded to the Hudson County Jail in South Kearny.

A usually-quiet neighborhood is shaken

The neighborhood surrounding the murder, most closely including Schuyler, Harrison and Franklin avenues and Hamilton Street is generally quiet and tight-nit. Directly across from where the victims were found is the Harrison High School athletic field and Harrison High School itself is mere steps away. Generally, the most commotion one will ever hear in the area is when there’s a home football, soccer or baseball game — or when school lets out for the day. Otherwise, locals may be found walking dogs, chatting to each other, all peacefully.

But for several locals, this incident, though apparently isolated, was nerve-wracking nonetheless. The Observer spoke with several locals from the neighborhood after the crime.

“I was very scared when I found out what happened when I woke up this morning,” one woman, who lives in the Gardens and who asked we not use her name, said. “I didn’t hear anything in the night. But I am pretty sure it happened close to my building. Everyone here gets along for the most part to know someone has died so violently is very hard to believe. I didn’t know her personally, but I heard she was wonderful lady”

Another Gardens resident, who also asked not to be identified, says while it is generally safe in the Gardens, she believes there is a need for security to patrol the grounds, especially after the sun goes down.

“It is safe for the most part, but you just never know,” the woman

said. “I think it may be time for the town to consider adding security here at nighttime to make sure everyone is safe. Or maybe a police officer can make foot patrols here. I think most residents would agree there is a need for some kind of added security.”

Harrison Third Ward Councilman Larry Bennett, who represents the entire Gardens complex, visited the the day of the murder to let his constituents know he was there for them, thinking of them and was ready to assist anyone in need of help. He, like many of the locals, was just as stunned by the day’s events.

“I’ve represented this area for 16 years and I’ve never seen anything like this,” Bennett said.

“It is very safe here. People know each other here. So this is all so sad and shocking. But I felt it was important to be here for the people of the Gardens, to know we’re ready to do whatever we can to help in the aftermath.”

The scene, meanwhile, was particularly gruesome, with a substantial trail of blood on the ground. Crews wearing Hazmat suits could be seen later that same morning conducting a big cleanup of the area. Workers used highpowered hoses and chemicals to clean the blood that had stained the sidewalk on Hamilton Street. Caution tape remained up for much of the morning, but it had all been removed by 4 p.m. the day of the murder.

Did you witness the incident? Know anything about it?

Suarez credited the HCPO Homicide Unit, the Harrison Police Department and the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office with the investigation and arrest. The Homicide Unit and the Harrison Police Department are actively investigating this case. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Office of the Hudson County Prosecutor at (201) 915-1345 or to leave an anonymous tip at www. hudsoncountyprosecutorsofficenj. org/homicide-tip. All information will be kept confidential.

SHOOTING

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It is unclear what, if anything, precipitated the shooting.

The victim was reported to have sustained a non-life-threatening injury, but was still admitted to the Jersey City MC for observation. The incident is being investigated by Det. Frank West, who may be reached by telephone at (201) 998-1313, ext. 2855. Members of the public may also email information in confidence to tips@kearnynjpd. org Be sure to reference case No. 23-02412.