e-Newspaper for Feb. 8, 2023

By Ron Leir ronleir423@gmail.com

Play ball, kids! But you’ll have to pay for the privilege soon enough.

That’s the current thinking of Belleville when it comes to sponsoring municipal recreation for the township’s younger set.

So acknowledged township manager Anthony Iacono at the Jan. 24 meeting of the governing body when he reported pay-to-play prospect was on the horizon.

If that happens — and every indication is that it will — Iacono said based on his research, Belleville, which, he said, has never charged for local youngsters’ participation in township-sponsored rec activities, has been the exception to the rule. And that policy has only weakened the township’s rec program, he said.

“Our duties and responsibilities are to provide a good product,” Iacono said, but the

one

pected to change soon — and when it does,

stronger.

township has more or less failed to achieve that objective.

“A good example of that,” he said, “is with the two young residents we honored tonight (Anthony Lopez Jr. and Elijah Franklin, who represented Belleville on the Newark Brick City Lions 12U Football Team, winners of

the American Youth National Championship in Florida) who left their hometown to play for another team.”

After consulting local rec leaders, coaches and parents, “we came up with reasons for why we think (a rec participation fee) has extreme benefits,” the manager said.

Tom Agosta, township

recreation director, agreed that in order to compete with other towns — particularly those with travel teams — on an equal footing, Belleville has no choice but to impose fees, particularly for an “expensive” sport like football, where, “just to recondition helmets every two years costs $6,000 to $7,000,” not

to mention uniform jerseys whose cost has doubled in the last few years “and there’s often a 2-to-3-month delay getting them.”

With no fee, Agosta said, many kids who sign up to play “drop out” as coaches scramble to assemble teams and schedules, forcing them to contract the number of squads which are often less competitive. And Third Ward Councilman Vincent Cozzarelli estimated “15% to 20% of local kids who register for football “take their free shirt and never come back.”

“If they do pay (a fee), we tend to have more skin in the game,” Agosta said.

Cozzarelli, Councilwoman Naomy DePeña, Councilman-at-large and Deputy Mayor Tom Graziano and Second Ward Councilman Steven Rovell all echoed support for a fee schedule.

And, Agosta added, the township then has a better chance “trying to get a feeder

See PAY, Page 11

Federal grant administered by county will pay for major roadway upgrades in Nutley NUTLEY

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

The Township of Nutley has received $180,825 in funding from a Community Development Block Grant for necessary infrastructure improvements.

On Jan. 19, Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. presented Nutley Mayor Joseph P. Scarpelli a check from the CDBG program, which is funded by the federal government and distributed by the Essex County Division of Housing and Community Development

A total of $5.8 million in CDBG and emergency-solution grants were offered to 10 municipalities and 28 organizations in the county.

“I would like to thank County Executive DiVincenzo for administering the CDBG program,” Scarpelli said. “The

grants we have received over the years have funded many roadway-reconstruction projects, along with other building improvements without any cost to the local taxpayer. Our capital-improvement program is greatly enhanced by utilizing this federal funding.”

According to Kathy Rempusheski, the township’s QPA/CDBG coordinator, Nutley has received a total of just under $1.9 million in CDBG funds over the past 10 years, allowing for major improvements to municipal buildings and roads.

Each December, the township applies for the CDBG program with a specific area or project in mind for improvement. Eligible projects

include providing Americans with Disability Act (ADA) accessibility to government-owned buildings and the repaving of roadways that are identified as per a census tract updated every 10 years.

The eligible areas are determined by the federal government and each must provide a benefit for low- income residents, according to HUD guidelines. The $180,825 received this January has been put toward the reconstruction and resurfacing of Ravine Avenue.

The funds received over the past decade have also made for the addition of an ADA-accessible elevator at the Nutley Public Library, an ADA pathway at Glotzbach Memorial Park and an ADA-accessible restroom at the public safety building, as well as the resurfacing of multiple roads.

EDUCATION UPDATES

Two locals make Centernary Dean’s List

Several local students have made the Dean’s List at Centenary University, President Bruce Murphy announced. To achieve this honor, full-time students must earn a semester grade-point average of 3.8 or above and complete a minimum of 12 semester credits. They include Kristine Correa, of Kearny and Taylor N, McCool, of North Arlington.

Schuyler School names

January Students of Month

Valerie Iacono, Schuyler School principal, has announced the school’s Students of the Month for January 2023.

Africa Acevedo Taboada, Siena Arboleda, Josh-

ua Arias Castillo, Rylee Campos, Hadi Cheikhali, Nathan Chinchey, Alexa Cuidad Real, Marco Diaz, Francesca DaSilva, Ethan Delantar, Marco Diaz, Nevaeh Ferreira, Nathaniel Filipkowski, Diana Gavilanez, Michael Hodle, Zachary Hodle, Luis Jaya, Robert Jeffords, Amelia Lepore, Marcos Lopes Pinto, Evie McKenna, Olivia McNally, Alfredo Mejia, Moises Moreno, Brittany Muyudumbay, Nayely Ortiz, Camila Padilla Ascoy, Somer Parker, Sebastian Portelli, Ariannys Ramos Villalobos, Fallon Ricciardi(2x), Deborah Rocha, Shayla Soriano, Lyla Soto, Tatiana Torres Valencia, Lucas Varilias, Olivia Walsh, Kevin Yang, Jaeden Zhang, Jessica Zheng.

Special Class 3 officer program — armed cops — coming soon to Kearny schools

By Ron Leir ronleir423@gmail.com

Kearny is partnering with the town Board of Education to add another layer of security to protect students and staff at the town’s public schools.

On Jan. 24, the mayor and Town Council took the first step to ensure that security is in place “in designated locations during the school day” by introducing an ordinance creating a Special Law Enforcement Officer Class 3.

The ordinance says Class 3 specials, authorized to carry weapons, “can be employed only to assist the KPD with school security duties and shall not supplant full-time law-enforcement officers.”

Up to six Class 3s may be retained, but Police Chief George King said the town’s intent is to start with one and that individual would be assigned to Kearny High School.

King said the primary motive in devising the new officer category was to “free up the School Resource Officer (who currently provides security at KHS) to do other things in school,” such as teaching classes in drug awareness and safe driving. This is not, therefore, a reactionary move, to anything whatsoever.

“There is still going to be an SRO in the high school,” the chief said.

Getting a Class 3 special “is something that’s come up from time to time in talks with the Board of Education,” King said. “And there was a real push for it last spring and early last summer among the superintendent, the town administrator and the mayor.”

King said there has been some discussion about providing an SRO for the Lincoln Middle School next, but that

remains in the talking stage.

The Class 3 officer’s duties are: to foster educational programs and activities that will increase student’s knowledge of and respect for the law and the function of law-enforcement agencies; to provide occupant safety and building security; to work with school staff to attend extra-curricular activities such as PTA meetings and athletic events; to “act swiftly and cooperatively” when responding to disorderly conduct by trespassers, possession and use of weapons on campus and the illegal sale or distribution of drugs; and to report serious crimes that occur on school property and cooperate with crime investigations.

Under a shared-services arrangement, the Chief will hire the Class 3 special to work during school hours, from September to June, for “25 to 35 hours per week at an hourly rate of $36.80.” No health or pension benefits will be provided. The school board will pay the town for the service.

The agreement says the Class 3 special “shall have full powers and duties similar to those of a permanent, regularly appointed fulltime town of Kearny police officer.”

If the Class 3 special is unable to work certain days or hours, the KPD will provide

a replacement officer to be compensated by the BOE.

Only qualified retired law enforcement officers who

KPD Chief George King

Cape May Street Waterfront Park in Harrison will soon become a reality

By Ron Leir ronleir423@gmail.com

After several years of planning, Harrison has finally set into motion plans for a brand new park along the banks of the Passaic River near Red Bull Arena.

Late last month, the municipal governing body voted to contract with Thomas & Sons Builders LLC, of New Milford, to assemble the Cape May Street Waterfront Park at a cost of about $6.8 million as part of the town’s overall redevelopment plan for the south side.

No stranger to Harrison, Thomas & Sons previously renovated the town’s Little League field, installing artificial turf also suitable for soccer, and installed a playground along the field’s perimeter. The re-designed play site, which cost $1.2 million to complete, opened

this past April.

Meanwhile, Harrison is hopeful it will see a spring 2023 groundbreaking for the town’s first waterfront park and the improvements figure to take about a year to complete.

The town will use a combination of outside funding from the state Department of Environmental Protection’s Green Acres program and Office of Natural Resources Restoration, along with the Hudson County Open Space grant program to finance the project, according to Mayor James A. Fife.

Much of the 8-acre site, which lies, roughly, between Cape May Street and the river, was acquired by the town from PSE&G after it was successfully remediated. Suburban Consulting Engineers, with offices in Wall and Flanders, was re-

See PARK, Page 6

Let’s Talk

Real Estate

FINDING THE RIGHT REAL ESTATE AGENT

When shopping for a home, buyers have a unique process all their own, and finding the right real estate agent that is a good fit is just as crucial as finding the right home. An excellent real estate agent will scour the market for homes that meet their buyers’ needs and guide them through the negotiation and closing process. How do you find the right agent? It can be time-consuming, but it will pay off. Getting referrals from other recent home buyers is a great place to start. Interview at least a few agents and request references. It helps to have someone with whom you feel confident. Firsttime buyers may want to know

an agent’s experience level with first-time homebuyers.

Buying a home? Our goal is the same as yours – a successful real estate transaction. Whether you are buying or selling, we are the professionals you’ll want for the job. Our rigorous training, 55+ years of experience, and love of what we do make us eminently qualified to lead you through the realities of real estate transactions. And our local contacts and access to numerous tools for finding solutions, we can make it easy for you. All it takes is a call to our office to set up an appointment. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”

Contributed photo

An artist’s rendering of the proposed new park.

Kearny physical therapy student visits Belize for training

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

Alvernia University occupational therapy student and Kearny

native Ashley Martins recently served patients in a nine-day interdisciplinary, intercollegiate clinical study-abroad experience across five local community organizations in Belmopan, Belize.

“Our goal was to provide sustainable education first and, second, rehabilitation,” Robin Zappin, assistant professor of physical therapy at Alvernia University, said. “We wanted to teach as many healthcare workers and community members about wellness, prevention and rehabilitation as possible to avoid ‘combat therapy’ where you drop in, do something and leave. Students created presentations, posters and pamphlets to leave with the community members based on their needs.”

Alvernia University’s physical therapy and occupational therapy students and faculty partnered with Misericordia University’s speech-language pathology (SLP) program and Bellarmine University’s PT program on this study abroad service trip.

Martins worked collaboratively with fellow students and faculty in Mercy Clinic, Help Age Belize, the YWCA, LIFE and the Inspiration Center in Belize.

“Unlike here in the United States, the people of Belize are not as fortunate as we are here with accessibility

and quality of healthcare available,” Zachary Wanner, PT student at Alvernia University, said. “It was very important for myself and the students from the other disciplines that I had never met before to come together and determine the major concerns and develop a concise plan with very limited to no resources available to us.

“It truly amazed me how in such little time, we were able to not only treat the patient based on their individual needs, but also instruct the caregivers on how to continue the care, progress the interventions when gains were met, and utilize household objects to help aide progression of their care.”

This model allowed students like Martins to collaborate as professionals in their industry while developing an understanding of their patients’ needs for treatment from professionals across other disciplines.

“It was amazing to see each discipline address specific concerns and treat them so well,” Martins said. “It was very patient-centered and efficient. My biggest takeaway is the respect that each discipline has for one another

Ken Davie

and how an interdisciplinary team can truly address each concern that an individual may have to provide truly patient-centered care and improve their overall quality of life.

“We all learned a lot from each other, and we will be better occupational and physical therapists in the future because of this experience.”

The Alvernia PT students

PARK

Continued from Page 4

tained by the town to draw up plans and Suburban vice president Joseph Perello said the firm’s landscape architects, engineers and environmental scientists collaborated with the town to devise a plan to provide passive recreation for that area of town.

Perello said the park “will provide (pedestrian) access to the Passaic River and will include various walkway experiences throughout the park, an overlook boardwalk, exercise equipment, a water feature, playgrounds, a dog park, various seating areas, vehicular parking and two main plazas that accentuate the off-site (waterfront) views.”

Perello said the design team also devised “a series of wetland basins that will be part of the ongoing (federal Environmental Protection Agency’s) effort of cleaning the greater Passaic River and incorporating native vegetation back into the area to reestablish wildlife habitat.”

That design, he added, features “multiple pavings and native plantings throughout the park to enhance the users’ experience within park nodes that provide a rich fabric of textures and colors of hardscape and softscape throughout the seasons.”

Some lighting will be installed near the park’s seating areas, Fife said. But, to avoid possible disruption of underground utilities, future park patrons shouldn’t look for any trees or any types of buildings on the grounds, Fife said. Nor, he added, will there any bathroom facilities which, he said, would mean an added expense for the town to staff and maintain.

Fife said the town had no plans to provide maritime opportunities for people to dock small crafts along the park’s riverfront or to sponsor rowboat, canoe or kayak rentals, given that federal and state environmental regulatory agencies are focused on a cleanup of the Passaic so if the town did erect a pier for those types of activities, it might run the risk of having to dismantle it to make way for river remediation activities.

Meanwhile, in other local recreation developments, the governing body voted to apply for a $100,000 state Department of Community Affairs Local Recreation Improvement Grant for recreation-related improvements to the Harrison Community Center.

Joseph Varano, the town’s recreation director, said if the town gets the grant, it plans to use $50,000 to install a new brand of polyurethane gym floor with the Harrison Blue Tide logo, $30,000 to paint the interior of the gym with its 30-foot-high ceilings and possibly do an exterior power washing of the center and $30,000 for new fitness equipment in the upstairs portion of the center.

The town should learn sometime in April whether it secured the grant, he said.

Varano said the gym is heavily used during the year. Currently, eight girls and 32 boys including two from East Newark are involved in the six-weeklong town recreation youth basketball program for grades 3 through 5, three nights a week. The rest of the time, he said, the gym is available for informal hoops games, volleyball, off-season football workouts, travel soccer team practice and dance class.

Looking ahead to next season’s outdoor programs, Varano said the hope is to continue to build enrollment in Rec League youth football “and we’re giving some thought to introducing flag football.”

KPD: Woman wanted boyfriend arrested, then changed her mind and wanted him to take their baby home from HQ

By Capt. Timothy Wagner Kearny Police Department

On Jan. 23 at 10:54 p.m., Officers Michael Ore, Bismark Karikari and Janitza Aquino were dispatched to a domestic violence call outside the General Kearny Apartments on Belgrove Drive. A 45-year-old Bronx woman told police her 60-yearold Kearny boyfriend threatened to smash her head against a wall during a verbal argument.

The woman initially declined to press charges, but changed her mind when her boyfriend refused to apologize at the scene. The woman asked officers to arrest her boyfriend for harassment and to help her apply for a temporary restraining order.

Officers arrested the boyfriend on the harassment charge, but upon being transported to the police station, the woman again

changed her mind and refused to give officers a formal statement or apply for a restraining order. Moreover, with the boyfriend soon to be released with a summons, the woman asked to leave their 6-month-old infant with the boyfriend so she could return to the Bronx alone. The man was then released with his baby.

On Jan. 27 at 10:46 p.m., Officers

Tom Collins and Danny Maganinho were dispatched to New Jersey Rail Carrier, LLC, at 65 Central Ave., where a security guard reported a suspicious vehicle on the property. The guards reported the vehicle drove into this industrial railroad lot and parked at the far end of the property.

When they tried to speak to the driver, he appeared to be asleep. After an earnest effort, Officers roused a sleeping Najee K. Miller, 29, of Irvington. When asked to turn off his motor, Miller repeatedly

told officers he was turning it off but instead he allegedly kept pressing the power button to the car’s infotainment system. When Miller kept reaching under his seat, officers removed him from the car to find his cellular phone under the seat.

Officers allegedly found Miller to have bloodshot eyes and the smell of alcohol on his breath. He reportedly rambled incoherently at times and insisted he was in “Charlotte” and the year was 2017. Officers arrested Miller after he failed field sobriety tests.

At the police station, Miller reportedly refused to take a breath alcohol test. He was charged with DWI, refusal to submit to chemical testing, and careless driving. Miller was later released to a family member.

On Jan. 20 at 8:22 p.m., Officers

See KPD, Page 14

SPORTS & RECREATION

Lyndhurst/North Arlington’s Weaver gets 100th win, eyes bigger goals

Lyndhurst’s Iacono becomes an unexpected T&F champion

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

When Nikalena Iacono made the decision to join Lyndhurst’s indoor track & field team, her goals didn’t really go beyond getting in better shape before the start of softball season in a month from now. Individual success was the furthest thing from the freshman’s mind.

So when Iacono left Toms River this past Saturday as the NJSIAA North 2, Group 2 champion in the shot put, no one was more surprised than Iacono herself.

With a throw of 29-0.25

Iacono became Lyndhurst’s first sectional champ in the event since Ariana Lombardi in 2018. For her performance has been named The Observer Athlete of the Week.

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

As Damian Weaver approached the 100-win mark this season, he tried to avoid letting his mind focus on the milestone that so few can claim. But even for someone as singularly focused as Weaver, such an achievement does creep into your thoughts as you approach.

“Once you start to close in on it, you start thinking about it a little bit more,” Weaver said. “You’re like ‘alright, I’m five away, now I’m three away. Now I just need one more win.’ I feel like once you get closer to it, you start thinking about it more and more.”

It’s a goal Weaver no longer needs to think about. On Monday, Jan. 30, Weaver earned his 100th varsity win when he pinned Bloomfield’s Adrian Ortiz at 3:13.

When the accomplishment was announced, Weaver received a standing ovation from both teams and the crowd in

the Lyndhurst High School gym and presented with a massive banner to commemorate the honor.

“It definitely means a lot. There’s a lot of people that get 100 wins, but there’s a lot more that don’t get 100 wins,” said Weaver. “It’s definitely rewarding and a lot of work goes into it.

“It’s always cool to do it at home in front of your family and friends. That was probably my favorite part, getting in front of my family and friends.”

Of course, wrestling and the wrestling community has always been an extended family for Weaver, the son of longtime wrestling coach and current Lyndhurst-North Arlington head coach Scot and as the younger brother of Dylan, a three-time state medalist and current wrestler for Rutgers.

The younger Weaver, said he started wrestling at 3 or 4 and quickly found success in the sport. That success has continued to high school as he’s twice qualified for Atlantic City

and, as a junior, became the first Lyndhurst wrestler to win a Bergen County title in 22 years when he defeated Daniel Rella of Paramus Catholic for the 150 pound championship.

The one thing that Weaver has yet to accomplish is medal in the state tournament at Atlantic City. Weaver’s brilliant 33-3 season ended one win short of a spot on the medal podium when he lost in the “Blood Round” of the state tournament.

It’s a defeat that has motivated him ever since.

“That was probably one of the hardest things that I’ve ever dealt with, knowing that I was only one win away from placing as a junior,” Weaver said. “It’s definitely stuck with me. It’s something I think about literally every day going to practice. I think about how I needed one more.”

“He’s gone completely next level with his work ethic,” Scot Weaver said earlier this season.

“I was really surprised. I honestly felt that I had an off day and I did feel a little bit nervous for this meet knowing that I had to qualify for the next one,” Iacono said. “I don’t think it actually settled in that I had won and I didn’t realize how big of a deal it was until later. Then I realized that it was crazy that I had just won.”

Crazy might be an understatement considering she had never even picked up a shot put ball before this winter.

First-year Lyndhurst head coach Kim Hykey knew that Iacono was one the strongest girls on the roster from watching her work in the weight room while coaching her during soccer season

“In soccer we weight train so I saw her in the weight room during the soccer season and I knew she was strong,” Hykey said about Iacono, a reserve

striker on the pitch as a freshman. “(Our throws coach James Day) is always saying that it would be awesome to get a kid that isn’t just a big and strong kid, but someone who is quick. She is quick and super athletic. Usually what happens to those kids is that we steal them for jumps and the track events. Nikalena is just a perfect storm for everything.”

In her first ever meet, the Garfield Shot Put/High Jump Invitational on Dec. 21, Iacono threw a 26-1, which was good for sixth place. A little less than five weeks later, Iacono set a new personal best with 28-0 at the Bergen County Relays before smashing that mark just three days later with a 29-8 at the NJIC Indoor Track Championships on Jan. 26.

“I kinda just went out there and tried it and threw good, which was really surprising to me,” said Iacono. “I started to like it because it came easily to me, but it was also fun to do. I started to take it seriously and want to throw better because I found it fun.”

“She’s such a hard worker and she listens and you can see it in her growth from early December to now,” Hykey said. “She’s gone from throwing 24, 25, 26 (feet) to now throwing 27, 28, 29 more consistently. She just gets it, she works harder and she just wants to get better. She’s in the weight room all the time and asking questions.”

Iacono’s early success has prompted a different question - is she going to throw in the spring? For Iacono, the answer is no, as softball has been one her main sports since she was

Photo courtesy of Rich Tuero

Damien Weaver

WEAVER

Continued from Page 9

“He took a week off after states last year and has not stopped wrestling since then. Not (always) competing, but with the workouts. All summer he was working out. Then, when they went into doubles for football during August, he would do doubles with football and then go to wrestling every night. He hasn’t stopped.”

Damian Weaver said the biggest result of the work is that he feels he’s a stronger

wrestler on his feet. That added strength makes it easier for him to earn takedowns and seize control of matches afterward.

“I just felt like I’ve taken it to another level,” Weaver said.

“I feel confident enough in myself that over the course of a match that I can get one takedown and that’s all you need to win a match.”

Weaver is currently 28-2 this season, having won a second straight Bergen County title, this time at 157 pounds.

Lyndhurst-North Arlington concludes its season with

a dual against Belleville on Wednesday and a quad on Saturday at Nutley. Then, it’s officially time to focus on individual success and for Weaver, the chance to avenge last season’s defeat.

“You want to be peaking at the right time, you want to be at the top of your game at the right time, going down to Atlantic City,” Weaver said.

“That’s what I’m going to continue to try to do and peak at the right level so when I do get down to Atlantic City I’m just going out there, wrestling and seeing what happens.”

PROFESSIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES, Ltd.

ATHLETE

Continued from Page 9

younger and has been a stellar shortstop on her travel team. But Iacono did say that she does want to continue to work on her throwing beyond this winter.

If her initial time as a thrower is any indication, there’s no doubt she has a bright future in the Shot Put, even if it remains her third sport to soccer and softball.

“I’m really proud of myself. It boosted my confidence and

helped me show that I can achieve anything,” Iacono said. “I came into this not knowing what I was going to do or if I was even going to compete or do good. I was hoping for the best, but not taking it as a competitive thing as much as doing it to stay active. After I first started to throw and people were telling me that these were crazy numbers as a freshman, that you have potential and stick with it. I was confused at first because I really didn’t expect it coming in for the first time and not really knowing what I was doing.”

C ELEBRATING 25 Y EARS !

EYE CARE

DeLuca Vision Consultants

TREATING AN EPIRETINAL MEMBRANE

An epiretinal membrane (ERM) is a transparent film that can form on the inner surface of the retina. If an ERM forms on the macula, it can cause blurred and distorted central vision. It occurs in both eyes about 20 percent of the time, usually in patients over 50. This condition can have few to no symptoms and is usually monitored instead of corrected since the only treatment for ERM is a surgical procedure called a vitrectomy. Glasses, contact lenses, and prescription eyedrops are not effective treatments. ERMs require surgery when a person can no longer see details like printed words and facial expressions. A vitrectomy is usually successful in restoring vision, and complications from the surgery are rare. When it’s time to have your

eyes checked make sure you are seeing the right eye care professional for your needs. 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. If it’s been a while since you’ve had an eye exam, call 201-896-0096. We are located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.

P.S. The epiretinal membrane affects central vision and may cause symptoms such as blurred vision, double vision, and wavy lines that interfere with activities like reading and driving.

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

Photo courtesy of Lyndhurst indoor track/girls soccer coach Kim Hykey Nikalena Iacono

PAY

Continued from Page 1

system for our high school. ”

With a fee system in place, however, Iacono stressed that, “ there will never be a Belleville child turned away for a (financial) hardship ” and Mayor Michael Melham echoed that premise, reasoning that local civic associations could step in to fill the gap.

Iacono said the township was looking at a “ basic ” participation fee of $25 per child, except for football and travel teams, both of which would require a higher assessment due to uniform, equipment and transportation costs. He didn ’ t say how much higher those fees would be, but predicted it would be less than what some neighboring communities, such as Nutley and Lyndhurst, charge.

Fourth Ward Councilman John Notari recommended the township consider fee adjustments for families

with more than one child participating in a recsponsored sport or activity and Iacono said parents might receive some type of discount in such a case, but probably not where siblings are registered for different activities.

Community Pass, a Ridgewood-based firm that provides municipalities with recreation management software, could be retained by the township to help with registration and tracking of kids in rec-sponsored programs, Agosta said.

“ They ’ re a good resource, ” Melham said.

Iacono said the mayor and council could expect to see a formal draft proposal for a fee structure in the form of an ordinance within the next few weeks.

In other business, the governing body moved a step closer to cementing completion of a long-delayed real estate transaction expected to be the prelude to a mixeduse development on the old School 1 property off Rutgers Street as it voted to

Premier Care TALKS

STROKE PREVENTION: REMEMBER “ABC”

Together with vascular neurology specialists, The Advanced Learning Network developed a stroke prevention initiative, ABCs of Stroke Prevention, for at-risk patients using three components: anticoagulation, blood pressure management, and communication. Anticoagulants prevent blood from forming the stroke-causing blood clots that travel to the brain. The blood pressure component involves daily monitoring of blood pressure to maintain healthy ranges and prevent blood clot formation that could lead to a stroke or cardiac event. The communication element requires patients to use a daily Stroke Prevention Checklist to document and monitor anticoagulation and blood pressure goals, facilitate communication with treating physicians regarding sudden changes or abnormalities that may indicate imminent possibility of a stroke, thus allowing timely interven-

introduce an ordinance for the “ execution and delivery of a corrective deed to O&R Urban Renewal Co. LLC, correcting the township ’ s previous conveyance of property located within the School 1 Redevelopment Area. ”

A QuickChek facility that also dispenses gas and a small residential complex are targeted for the vacant 7-acre property.

A public hearing on the ordinance will take place at the Feb. 14 council meeting. The governing body also appointed Jacqueline E. Guaman as deputy municipal clerk and awarded a $324,000 contract to Reivax Contracting Corp., of Newark, for Main Street flooding mitigation, funded via a grant from the N.J. Economic Development Authority.

Girl Scout cookies for troops

tion to optimize stroke prevention.

Many strokes can be prevented through healthy lifestyle changes and working with your health care team to control health conditions that raise your risk. If you take medicine to treat heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Always ask questions if you don’t understand something. If you don’t already have a provider, please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-998-7474. We are located at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B, where walk-in patients are always welcome 7 days a week.

P. S. In 1658, a physician practicing in Switzerland, Johann Jacob Wepfer, identified the root causes of stroke based on postmortem examinations of those that died of the condition.

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

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

Contributed

LoIacono named president of NJ Municipal Managers Association

North Arlington Borough Administrator

Stephen LoIacono has been named President of the New Jersey Municipal Managers Association (NJMMA). The association counts nearly 300 municipal managers and administrators as members.

Members must be committed to maintaining the high-

est level of professionalism and integrity in the position they hold. The association works closely with county and state officials in protecting the interests of the municipalities and residents they serve.

In meetings, one-day conferences and an annual two-day conference, members exchange real-life

experiences and develop best practices that may be used in their daily work in local government.

LoIacono previously served as the manager in Lodi and Hackensack before being appointed in North Arlington. He currently serves as a member of the Planning Board in Mahwah, is a commissioner of the

WWW.THEOBSERVER.COM

Northwest Bergen County Utilities Authority and serves on the Legislative Committee of the New Jersey League of Municipalities.

He was sworn in by North Arlington Mayor Daniel H. Pronti in a short ceremony at the NJLOM Conference in Atlantic City. A number of North Arlington department heads attended the ceremony.

Nutley Jaycees seek nominees for 2023 Distinguished Service Awards

The Nutley Jaycees are actively seeking nominations for the 51st annual Distinguished Service Awards Program.

Five individuals who live or work in Nutley will be honored for their outstanding contributions to the quality of life in Nutley. The awards are presented for commitment and excellence in the areas of business, education, civic affairs, public health and safety and to one outstanding individual between the ages of 21 and 40.

The deadline nominations is March 1

The awards will be presented at the Nutley Jaycees’ Distinguished Service Awards Dinner Thursday, April 13, at the Valley Regency in Clifton. Last year’s affair attracted 400 Nutley supporters.

Reservations for the dinner may be purchased for $50 per person from Steven Clarke by calling (973) 235-1515. Advertisements and congratulatory pages in the program book are available. For more information on the ad journal, contact Dianne or David Wilson at (973) 667-4690.

“The Distinguished Service Awards program has over the years recognized those individuals who have helped make Nutley one of the most highly regarded and respected communities in our state,” Clarke, Jaycees official, said. Nomination forms are being sent to charitable organizations in town and are also available at Town Hall and the Library. This year’s DSA committee includes Clarke, Walter Smith, David Wilson, Dianne Wilson and Andy Garruto.

Steve LoIacono

Walter J. Alexander Jr.

Walter J. Alexander Jr. of Kearny died Jan. 29, 2023.

He was 68. Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home in Kearny. Cremation was private.

Walter is survived by his loving wife Kathy (nee Pagliuco) and his cherished children Jason Alexander, Kimberly Alexander and Emily Alexander. Walter was predeceased by his parents Walter and Betty (Wilkey) Alexander. Brother of Carol Jaworski, Debbie Allen and Wayne Alexander, he is also survived by his grandson Justin.

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

OBITUARIES

George R. Brobeck

George R. Brobeck of Kearny died Feb. 1, 2023.

He was 62.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Family and friends will gather again on Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the funeral home and we will leave at 11 a.m. for Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, for graveside prayers.

George was a self-employed exterminator. He used to joke and call himself a “hired killer.” He was the beloved husband of Susan (nee Schumann) and son of the late George and Maureen Brobeck. Loving father of Daniel Brobeck and Dawn Brobeck (Alexander Gonzalez), he was the brother of David Brobeck (Nancy).

He is also survived by his grandchildren Evan Gonzalez, Taylor, Brittney, Adrianna, Michael Jr., along with his

step-children Melissa Castellano and David Cutler and his nieces Carolyn, Amy and Tammy Brobeck.

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

Kathleen M. Roarty

Kathleen M. Roarty (nee Hart), 75, of Kearny, died Feb. 2, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial visitation for Kathleen at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Dr., Kearny, on Friday, Feb. 10 from 4 to 8 p.m., with a funeral service celebrated in the funeral home at 7:30 p.m.

Born in Jersey City, Kathleen was a lifelong Kearny resident until moving in with

4 tips for staying fit and healthy in a retirement residence

Staying active is a great way to live longer and improve your quality of life. Here are four tips for staying fit and healthy while living in a retirement home.

1. Go for a daily walk

You don’t need expensive workout equipment to enjoy an active lifestyle. Brisk walking is an excellent way to strengthen your body. Moreover, some retirement homes offer excursions and sightseeing tours to help residents get out, move their bodies and experience new things.

2. Participate in community classes

Many retirement residences offer group fitness classes to get your blood pumping. Gentle options like tai chi and yoga can keep you fit without the strain or risk of injury. It’s also great to meet new people and stay active in the community.

3. Eat healthy foods

Adopting a nutritious diet

is an essential part of staying in shape. Make sure you eat balanced and nutrient-rich meals and drink plenty of water. If your retirement home provides food service, choose a dietary option that meets your personal needs.

4. Take care of your mental health

To stay in the best possible shape, you must also take care of your mental and emotional health. Socializing with oth-

her daughter in Glen Gardner a year and a half ago. She worked as a travel agent, and as a bookkeeper in her younger years before raising her loving family.

An avid fan of the New York Giants and the New Jersey Devils, Kathleen enjoyed doing her crossword puzzles, and especially enjoyed trips to the Caribbean with her dear husband.

Kathleen was the beloved wife of the late James F. Roarty Jr. She was the loving mother of Shannon Crowley and Jaime Roarty and her husband Timothy Mulrine. She was

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

the cherished grandmother of Daniel Crowley (Alyssa), Brooke Crowley, Kyla Mulrine and Sylvie Mulrine, and adoring great-grandmother of Kelsey Crowley, Colton Sullivan and Eleanor Crowley. She is also survived by her sister Patricia Silvers and her husband Michael, and by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sonin-law Danny Crowley and by her parents John and Eleanor (Hilton) Hart.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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

ers and spending time with family and friends help keep your mind sharp. Some retirement homes offer engaging activities like arts and crafts, which allow you to challenge your mind and express your creativity.

When you’re ready to make that move, look for a retirement residence that offers a wide range of activities and exercise opportunities to keep you happy and healthy for the years ahead.

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

KPD

Continued from Page 7

Luis Cazares and David Vazquez responded to the warming center at 53 S. Hackensack Ave. on a report a client damaged an

employee’s vehicle. The employee reported Glen Green Sr., 58, of Jersey City, had been seen on surveillance camera video striking the front doors of the employee’s parked Nissan Murano with a rock, breaking off its driver’s side

mirror, and trying to rip off its front license plate. The suspect reportedly ran when confronted by the Nissan’s owner.

The officers found Green on Rts. 1&9 south in Jersey City and took him into custody. Green was charged

with criminal mischief and lodged next door to the crime scene at the Hudson County Jail.

On Jan. 22 at 1:42 a.m., Officer Anthony Oliveira was patrolling near the corner of Lincoln and Johnston avenues and saw a Saturn Vue parked at the corner. Inside the vehicle was a male driver and a female passenger who was crying, shouting and smacking her hand against the driver’s side window.

Officer Oliveira approached to investigate and learned the 25-year-old East Newark woman in the passenger seat had allegedly just been punched in the face and jostled by the arms and legs by her 30-year-old livein boyfriend.

The officer was told the pair had just come from a bar where they had an argument after the boyfriend became upset about her dancing with another man. A counterclaim said the in-car fighting was mutual scratching and grabbing.

Seeing the girlfriend’s cut lip, bruised nose and bruised arm and leg, Officer Oliveira arrested the boyfriend for simple assault. He was later released with a summons.

On Jan. 15 at 1:44 p.m., a 65-year-old Kearny woman reported to Officers Sean King and Alan Stickno that on Jan. 6, her 28-year-old son strangled her.

The complainant said she had previously reported her son missing and he became angry at her for making that report and strangled her upon his return home.

The assailant’s whereabouts after the alleged

assault were unknown, but officers filed a criminal complaint against him for aggravated assault.

On Jan. 23 at 7:46 p.m., Officers Kevin Matos and Jonathan Lima were dispatched to a Patterson Street residence on a report of a suspicious person in the area.

There, they found the suspicious person was the assailant from a Jan. 6 assault and took him under arrest.

The man was also wanted for two shoplifting incidents at Kearny Walgreens that allegedly occurred on Jan 18. Store management alleged that in two incidents that day, the suspect stole $396.82 and $455.77 worth of merchandise, respectively. After being booked and served with a restraining order, the assailant was transferred to the county jail.

On Jan. 22 at 10:08 p.m., Officers Luis Cazares, Jose Perez-Fonseca and Danny Maganinho investigated a report a BMW X3 SUV crashed into three parked vehicles on the 200 block of Highland Avenue. Nery N. Caceres, 41, of Kearny, reported he was driving the BMW but lost control when one of his wheels fell off.

After smelling the odor of alcohol and finding Caceres allegedly could not answer simple questions coherently, officers administered fieldsobriety tests.

They then arrested Caceres when he failed those tests. Caceres was charged with DWI, reckless driving and driving with a suspended license/registration.

He was later released with summonses.

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

Campbell 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

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

Receptionist – Kearny, NJ

Looking for a well-rounded office worker who can answer phones, send emails, make copies, data entry, be a support person for the team. Must be comfortable using a computer.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

1-2 years office experience required. Email resume and salary request to suzann@mannaandassociates.com 201-991-7111

40WO3

FULL TIME

Billing/insurance related issues for Ophthalmologist office. Coding experience a plus. Please Fax resume to Natalie Tavares 201-896-0062 or call 201-896-0096

39W03

BELLEVILLE Basement studio. closet space. $1000 + 1.5 months security. Utilities, AC. & Cable included. No pets/ smoking. Single woman preferred. Available March 1st (862)202-0581 40W01

KEARNY “Studio apartment (or 1 lg room w/ closet 12’x11’), H&HW and utilities included, share EIK, full bath, LR. Female preferred. Use of front porch permitted. Available immediately. $1,250 + 1.5 months security Call Jennifer (201) 283-2325 No calls are taken past 11 PM 40W03

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

HARRISON Large 1 bedroom apartment Just remodeled, featuring full ceramic tile bath, brand new kitchen, new hardwood floors throughout and much more. $2,000/ mth plus security. No Pets. (201)991-6942.

40W03

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 40W03

KEARNY Newly Remodeled 2 Bedroom apt. Dukes St. Front Hudson Park. LR and Kitchen No pets. $1380 + 1.5 months security. plus utilities. 973-391- 3868 40W03

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

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 39W03

N.ARLINGTON Newly renovated. Very Private. 1 BR. LR. EIK. 1 Bath. $1150 + 1.5 months security. Plus utilities. No Smoking. Single person preferred. Background Check. Close to Transportation. Call between 9am - 7pm (201)9668095 39W03

What an ad on Craigslist gets you ...

• A free ad

• No-shows

• Headaches

• People from other regions of NJ

• Scammers

What an Observer Classified gets you ...

• local readership

• local buyers

• Access to thousands of people who support our advertisers

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

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 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 Arlington Section 3 Modern rooms, Seperate Utilities, No Pets/Smoking, Off Street Parking for 1 car. Close to transportation. $1,250/ mth plus 1.5 mth security. Available March 1st (201)991-8240 39W03

KEARNY 2nd Fl - 3 BEDROOMS @ Chestnut st near St Cecilia Church. Avail March 1st. 1 Bath, Large EIK, Dining Room, LR, Storage Room. Plenty of light, new Flooring and resurfaced kitchen cabinets. No utilities included, no smoking, no pets, parking off street $2000 rent + $3000 security Proof of income. Text 201-926-9859 40W01

N.ARLINGTON 2 family house on 2nd floor, 3 BR, 1 Bathroom LR/ Dr combo and Kitchen. No pets/ No smoking Laundry on premise 1 month security. Utilities Seperate. Call or text and leave a detailed message (973) 454-3281 Available March 1st Se Habla Español 39W03

N.ARLINGTON 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, LR, DR, office, Washer and Dryer. No Pets/Smoking. $2,400/mth plus 1.5 mth security. Utilities Separate Available March 1st (201)889-4047 40W03

• Placement in a 134-year-old newspaper (and on www.theobserver.com) and our paper that readers are loyal each and every week.

Truth is, nothing can compare to our Classified Section. Why take the risk with Craigslist?

Try The Observer’s Classifieds ... and see results right away. Call us today to place your ad.

(201) 991-1600

Mindy DiGabriele

Maria Germana Gomes Nicole Poncio

Maureen Mulligan

COPS

Continued from Page 3

are younger than 65 may be appointed a Class 3 special for a one-year term, subject to annual renewals, and must complete a training course for Safe Schools Resource Officers within a year of appointment.

Other municipalities in the region that have installed, or put in motion, plans to hire a Class 3 special include Harrison, Bayonne, North Bergen, Union City, Hoboken, Secaucus and Belleville, according to King.

“There seems to be a trend for it,” the chief said. “We’re one of the few in the area that doesn’t have it.”

A public hearing on the ordinance was scheduled for the Feb. 7 council meeting.

nnn

In other business, the governing body authorized the installation of a “Little Library” project funded by Friends of the Library.

Josh Humphrey, library director, said plans call for two of the structures — two-shelf perches posted in the ground with room for 30 to 40 books.

One will be installed in Town Hall Park and a second outside the branch library at 759 Kearny Ave. in the spring, Humphrey said.

Residents may select a book and return it at any time and they’re also encouraged to drop off books to share with other readers, Humphrey said. Borrowers aren’t required to have a library card to participate, he added.

“It’s a way of expanding the library’s reach,” the director said.

“We actually got them before the pandemic and now we feel the time is right to put them into use for the public. I see a lot of them in Essex and Bergen counties.”

nnn

Planned improvements to Harvey Field, which was closed in the aftermath of damage done by Hurricane Ida in fall 2021, are being delayed again, following the council’s vote to reject three bids submitted last month as “significantly above the town engineer’s cost estimate.”

But that isn’t stopping the town from seeking outside grant funding for upgrades to several other municipal recreation sites.

The governing body authorized applying for county and state grants totaling $600,000 for

the Norman A. Doyle Pavilion Playground improvement project and the same amount for the Futsol soccer facility.

The town is getting already a $397,863 from the state’s

Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund to proceed with the second phase of remediation of the Gunnell Oval Recreation Complex off Schuyler Avenue.

Contributed photo Kearny Public Library Director Josh Humphrey is seen here in front of ‘Little Free Library’ display. Two of them will be placed in locations around Kearny in the coming weeks.