e-Newspaper for Feb. 15, 2023

SUPER’S SUPERB

Belleville’s Tomko 1 of 8 across country named to prestigious Leaders to Learn From list

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

Richard Tomko, the superintendent of Belleville’s Public Schools, has been the recipient of many honors and accolades for his superior work in the education field. But perhaps none are more prestigious than the one he’s been bestowed in the last week.

Tomko was announced Feb. 7 as one of the 2023 Leaders to Learn From by Education Week, a 37-week-a-year newspaper and online journal that covers educational matters.

The 11th-annual Leaders To Learn From special issue highlights the work of eight district leaders from around the country who

See TOMKO, Page 8

One sought, one caught in JC teacher’s homicide

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

One man has been arrested and an arrest warrant has been issued for another in connection with the death

investigation of Luz Hernandez, 33, of Jersey City, who was found dead in South Kearny earlier this week, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez said.

Cesar Santana, 36, and Leiner Miranda Lopez, 26, both of Jersey

City, are each charged with one count of desecrating/concealing human remains.

Santana was arrested shortly after midnight on Friday, Feb. 10,

See HOMICIDE, Page 15

Drop Dead!

Billy Van Zandt

Jane

WANTED

If you know this man’s whereabouts, the HCPO wants to hear from you.

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

Photos by Sam Mallon/Education Week

TOP: Tomko interacts enthusiastically with a group of younger students in Belleville. BOTTOM: Tomko and several others watch as students navigate a rock-climbing wall.

Pronti urges residents to apply for ANCHOR rebate by Feb. 28 deadline

Applicants must have lived in the borough by 2019

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

Many eligible taxpayers have not yet applied for a tax rebate through the ANCHOR program, with a deadline set for Feb. 28, and that includes residents of North Arlington — so the mayor is urging all residents who have lived here from at least 2019 to apply.

According to the latest state figures, postcards were mailed to 3,664 homeowners in North Arlington that the state believes may be eligible for the program.

Only 1,876 homeowners filed as of Jan. 18, leaving a potential pool of 1,788 North Arlington homeowners who may be entitled to a rebate of up to $1,500, but have yet to register. Meanwhile, the state mailed postcards to 1,845 tenants in North Arlington, of which 675 have filed for benefits so far.

That leaves approximately 1,170 eligible tenants from North Arlington who could be losing a $450 rebate, under assumptions from the state Treasury Department.

If you owned or rented your main residence in New Jersey on Oct. 1, 2019 and met the income requirements, you qualify for property tax relief under the ANCHOR program. But you need to apply by the Feb. 28

deadline.

“With so many North Arlington residents having yet to register, I urge you to share the Feb. 28 deadline with your friends and neighbors,” North Arlington Mayor Daniel H. Pronti said. “It is very important that every eligible North Arlington family receive this rebate; they first must simply apply.”

Homeowners with income of $150,000 or less will receive $1,500, while homeowners with income of more than $150,000 and up to $250,000 will receive $1,000. Renters with income of $150,000 or less will receive $450. The state is planning to pay ANCHOR benefits in late spring in the form of direct deposit or check to eligible applicants. ANCHOR is replacing the state’s Homestead rebate program. Learn more at anchor.nj.gov.

Lyndhurst gets a new bus

Knights hosting Shrove Tuesday dinner

The Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus sponsor its annual Shrove Tuesday dine-in/take-out Dinner

Tuesday, Feb. 20 at Columbian Club Hall, 194 River Road, North Arlington, from 6 to 7 p.m. The menu includes pancakes plus Polish and Italian foods, dessert and refreshments. A video presentation

on the history of the customs and traditions of this special day before Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, will be shown. The cost is $25 per adult and $10 for kids ages 6 to 11.

Reservations are required and may be made by calling (201) 988-0183 by Thursday, Feb. 18.

Real Estate Let’s Talk

BUYING LAND TO BUILD ON

Are you thinking of building your dream home? It is essential to consider the land it will sit on. When you are looking to buy the right piece of land, you will need to take precautions before signing on the dotted line. The location, such as the property being inside or outside city limits, is important since it affects utilities. Also, property setbacks, which indicate how far the structure can be set back from the property line, need to be investigated. Finally, zoning requirements are a big deal. They will determine how many additional structures, if any, you can have on the property. Your real estate agent will work with you

to find the right property for your needs.

One of the best, if not THE best, decision you can make when considering buying a plot of land to build on is to seek the services of a real estate professional who is experienced in the many aspects of raw land purchases. With over 55 years of experience, we have been helping our clients and customers successfully deal with the hundreds of possible steps that need to take place during every successful real estate transaction. If you have questions about buying or selling property, we’d love to hear from you. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.” P.S.

The Lyndhurst Police Emergency squad took possession of its newest ambulance, delivered from P&L,w last week. The squad says it should be in service at the end of February. Seen here at the delivery are, from left, Mayor Robert B. Giangeruso, Deputy Commissioner Salvatore DeCarlo, Joseph Vasta, P&L rep and Police Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr.

Photo courtesy of Vincent Auteri | LPD

Pronti

Grilo likely to face intra-party challenges if she seeks re-election

Former mayor & sitting councilwoman have both taken petitions to challenge first term East Newark mayor

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

East Newark first-term

Mayor Dina Grilo may face an intra-party battle if she opts to seek another term in this year’s Democratic primary.

Former Mayor Joseph Smith, ousted by Grilo in the 2019 Democratic primary after having served 32 years in the highest elective office of the tiny borough, and Borough Councilwoman Jessica Diaz recently picked up petitions for what each described as a possible run for mayor as the party’s nominee in June.

Candidates have until March 27 to file nominating petitions.

of people who are totally dissatisfied with the way she’s running the borough.” Many of those people have encouraged him to run again, he said, leading him to take the first step to a possible run.

Still, Smith said, he could be persuaded not to go forward depending on who else may be in the race.

In the meantime, Smith said, “I’m keeping my options open.”

Grilo’s other potential opponent, Diaz, is in the second year of her 3-year term on the governing body where she chairs the shade tree and street lighting committees.

DECISION 2023

Smith, who sat on the Borough Council eight years before ascending to the mayoralty, said after his defeat by Grilo, as a courtesy, he met with the victor, and willingly provided answers to questions she had related to the operation of borough government.

A bit later, at Grilo’s request, Smith said he agreed to a follow-up exchange at which, he said, “she asked me many of the same questions that I’d already answered.”

Since then, Smith said, he’s been “amazed at the amount

Why try for the mayoralty?

“There’s room for change,” Diaz said. “We need to hire more police.”

More protection will be needed, she explained, when a developer completes conversion of the old Clark Thread factory into a new apartment complex which will be occupied by hundreds of new borough residents. And new homes are being built on the site of the old St. Anthony’s Recreation Center, she added.

And, Diaz said, the borough must respond to the need for additional parking. Ten spots were lost with the sale of the

John M. Pinho Javerbaum Wurgaft

former Valley National Bank building, she said.

In a separate development, meanwhile, the borough will soon be losing yet another of its civil servants, because of a

state-imposed change in his conditions of employment.

That is Kenneth Lindenfelser, the borough’s municipal court judge for the past 28 years, and one of the few holdovers in Grilo’s administration.

Lindenfelser has also worked the past eight years as an assistant chief counsel in the county’s Department of Family Services in going after deadbeat dads to recover the costs of county welfare paid to single moms. But a ruling by the state Supreme Court’s Committee on Judicial Activities concluded serving in both roles puts a municipal judge in a potential conflict situation

and mandated dual job holders choose between the two posts and/or resign.

Lindenfelser has chosen to leave the bench, at a date still

Smith Grilo

80th anniversary of Four Chaplains marked with many from SAL 105 present

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

Unfathomably, it’s been 80 years since the immortal Four Chaplains lost their lives. And as is the case annually, St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny, paused to remember the four, including the Rev. John Washington, who once served the parish.

During the early morning hours of Feb. 3, 1943, the four chaplains, each of different religions serving in World War II, sacrificed themselves to save soldiers onboard the torpedoed USAT Dorchester when they gave their lifejackets to others who needed them.

The 80th anniversary of the deaths of Lt. Alexander D. Goode, a rabbi; Lt. George L. Fox, a Methodist minister; Lt. Clark V. Poling, a Dutch Reformed minister; and Lt. Washington — was marked with a tribute Mass that celebrated their heroism as the ultimate sign of faith, and an example for everyone to follow.

“Most of us will never die a hero’s death… But all of us are called by the idea of faith to, day in and day out,

give of ourselves,” Auxiliary Bishop Gregory J. Studerus, who presided over the Feb. 5 Mass before a church filled with military veterans, relatives of those killed on the Dorchester, and other dignitaries such as former Gov. James E. McGreevey, Mayor Alberto G. Santos and others, said. “Day in and day out, we look for ways of being generous, ways of being kind, ways of reaching out and touching the heart of those who are sad and mourning, reaching out and touching those who are oppressed. And sometimes (we go) as far as the ones we honor today, giving our lives because of faith.”

The Mass began with a presentation of colors featuring veterans’ organizations, Boy Scouts and the Knights of Columbus. Later, the St. Columcille United Gaelic Pipe Band played a rousing rendition of “Amazing Grace,” and parish musicians performed fitting tunes like “God Bless America” and “No Greater Love.”

Afterward, Boy Scout troops from as far as Ohio received special Four Chap -

lains patches after completing an educational program designed by St. Stephen’s Boy Scout Unit 305 for the anniversary.

“Eighty years is a long time to remember, but remember we must,” the Rev. Joseph Mancini, longtime pastor of St. Stephen’s, and perhaps the staunchest advocate for keeping the Four Chaplains forefront in parishioners’ minds, said. “We can never let the actions of the Four Chaplains fade away with time and history … The world can continue to learn from their actions, and we’re the ones charged with telling their story.”

St. Stephen’s Church has been the official sanctuary of the Four Chaplains since 2016, and has done much to keep the four men’s memory alive through the decades. Beyond celebrating an annual Mass in their name, the parish dedicated its Boy Scout troop and a scholarship program to the Four Chaplains so their legacy will be passed on to future generations.

Additionally, in 2013, St. Stephen’s immortalized the chaplains’ sacrifice when

it commissioned internationally renowned sculptor Timothy Schmalz to create a 12-foot, 2,000-pound bronze monument as a testament to their heroism.

That statue was restored and rededicated a year ago.

American Legion Post 105, Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Squadron 105, and members of the American Legion Auxiliary interest group seeking a charter at Post 105, were among the hundreds who attended the annual remembrance Mass.

“I just thought it was absolutely beautiful,” Amer-

ican Legion Auxiliary member Jackie Elsmore said.

“Honestly, I didn’t know about the Four Chaplains,” Post 105 Legionnaire Elsie Cruz, a Navy veteran, said. “To be a part of this — especially for the young people — it’s showing them to honor people who make sacrifices … to honor their own history.”

Troop 305, who, sponsored by the church, have adopted the Four Chaplains as their patron, wearing their image on their uniforms and neckerchiefs. nnn

Photo by Barbara B. Goldberg

The Most Rev. Gregory Studerus, auxiliary bishop for Hudson County, processes in for the Four Chaplains Mass last week at Kearny’s St. Stephen’s Church.

Santana livid over pump station delays caused by supposed part back order

By Ron Leir ronleir423@gmail.com

Public utilities became the unhappy focus of attention at the Feb. 7 meeting of the Kearny governing body.

Second Ward Councilman

Peter P. Santana quizzed David Silva of Neglia Engineering, the Lyndhurstbased consulting engineers for the town, at length about why the anticipated opening of the Harrison Avenue pump station was, once again, being delayed.

Silva replied that a

“necessary item, a piece of electronics” containing the on-off switch for the pump, “was on back order” with delivery anticipated by July and that information “I just received today.”

What he described as a “possible substitute” item could be ordered instead and that part could arrive by April, Silva said.

A bit later, a clearly annoyed Santana complained: “For every single meeting, we’ve been assured that (the Harrison Avenue pump job) was still on schedule.” Now,

to learn at a time when long-suffering residents of Sanford Avenue and the surrounding flood-prone area had expected to see some relief, they are met with yet another delay, he said.

“This is unacceptable,” the lawmaker said.

Addressing the Neglia

representative, Santana said: “You guys are the project manager and you should be checking on (equipment) orders.” He then appealed to Mayor Alberto G. Santos to “enforce” what he understood to be the engineers’ responsibility to ensure that “all orders are made” in a timely fashion.

Santos said there are “target dates” built into a town’s agreement with a contractor and, addressing Silva, added, “You’re our warning system,” to provide advance notice of a project delay, “not on the eve of a groundbreaking.”

Town of Kearny | Zoom

Second Ward Councilman Peter P. Santana, third from left at council dais, grills David Silva, at right at center table, of Neglia Engineering, last week over delays to the pump-station project in his ward.

Second Ward Councilman says last-second notice is ‘unacceptable,’ wants answers & alternatives

See PUMP, Page 18

OPINION & VIEWPOINTS

COMMENTARY

NJSIAA was wrong to ban Kards from basketball tournament

Picture this scenario. Maybe you’ve even experienced something similar. One night, you and some friends go out, maybe it’s to a bar or restaurant and suddenly, out of the corner of your eye, you notice one of your friends is being physically assaulted by a complete stranger.

While there’s no way to tell how every single human being would react such a scenario, we’d venture to say most, if not all, would intervene, to help their friend in need, because it is simple human nature — someone you care about is in trouble, you help.

At most if not all costs.

A few weeks ago, at a home basketball game, a Kearny player basically got mauled by an opposing player. Some of his fellow Kards left the bench because, well, if you see a teammate in need of help, you help.

But the only thing is, the NJSIAA has this rule — cross the outof-bounds like from the bench onto the court for any reason, and said players are automatically ejected from that game and they suspended for two subsequent games.

A further NJSIAA rule states if any team has four or more ejections in any given season, said team is automatically disqualified from participating in the NJSIAA post-season tournament. Period. End of discussion.

But you see, there are numerous factors in play here that should have prompted — but clearly didn’t — the NJSIAA to use discretion.

First, on the day of the game, only one player was ejected — he was from the opposition. The game was soon after the incident ended for the safety of all who were in attendance — and that night, there were a lot of people present because it was a fundraising night for player William Mullins, who sadly, at such a young age, has been afflicted with Leukemia.

Next, had the NJSIAA not had video proof from onlookers’ cameras that caught the incident, it would not have known Kards players supposedly left the bench since none of the officials assigned to the game ejected anyone from Kearny. Either the refs missed it or, in their wise discretion, realized those kids meant absolutely no harm to anyone on the court, but simply wanted to help their teammate who had been assaulted by the opposition.

Remember — these are teenage boys and though the rule is clear, adults with more experience, more supposed wisdom, could have used necessary discretion here by noting though the four may have “left the bench,” they did so not to fight, not to cause trouble, not to hurt anyone — but they did so because anyone with an ounce of decency is their blood jumps when a friend is under attack.

So instead of using sound judgment here, the NJSIAA instead applied the strong arm of the rules, belatedly “ejected” four players for leaving the bench, and therefore, caused them to miss two games each — all because they reacted naturally. And if they would have qualified for the post-season, forget that, too.

Fleischman: Newspapers like The Observer don’t ‘press’ local politicians enough

I’m a blogger, focused on Belleville politics and public affairs. I don’t claim to be objective; I do have an agenda. My agenda is to promote good government, responsible development and encourage residents to engage in “good trouble” by attending public meetings, asking questions and demanding accountability.

I worked in community journalism right out of college, at a time when Belleville and neighboring communities got their news from at least two weekly newspapers, a daily, and local network news. I was mentored by a wise but gritty, tough-as-nails weekly newspaper editor who called out any politician or local leader who wronged the public.

What I find missing today is a journalism that doesn’t just inform but works to right wrongs. The best journalists and columnists have a bone-deep hatred of injustice and the abuse of power. Belleville – and so many other places – desperately needs that kind of journalism again.

The media should see Belleville as a news goldmine. We have a mayor who appears to be the private development equivalent of New York City planner Bob Moses, while clothed in the naked ambition and sense of public entitlement of a political boss. Of course,

OP ED By Frank Fleischman III Belleville

he’s had help from a largely complicit or silent Township Council.

Meanwhile, Belleville’s Board of Education has become spendthrift in the past few years, purchasing multiple properties and paying rent for several others (including one owned by the mayor.) Most recently, the board entered into an unprecedented “shared services” agreement with the Township, which allows the board to buy another large building while the town builds a public parking deck next to the Middle School.

All this spending, while Belleville taxpayers continue to pay an additional estimated $400,000 a year for a $4 million state loan, because of the shameful 2014 school board deficit. This also is occurring with the apparent approval of a state-appointed school monitor who hasn’t been seen at a school board meeting in more than two years.

Citizens have few options to stop or challenge its governing bodies, and it seems elected officials know this all too well. People can vote, although Belleville has a history of low voter turnout, especially in local

elections; they can file suit in Superior Court, but few citizens have money to hire a lawyer; they can file to recall elected officials from office, but such efforts often fail; they can file complaints with any number of state agencies, but at least in Belleville’s case, any action or response seems slow-in-coming, if it comes at all.

Longtime Washington Post columnist Richard Cohen was once asked what happens when local journalism disappears. He replied in part, “What happens is the crooks get away with what they wanna get away with It’s not at the federal government where your pocket gets picked, it’s in the statehouse and in city hall.”

I believe in the power and public role of media. I agree with Thomas Jefferson: I’d rather live in a nation with media and no government than with a government and no media.

But the media must be willing to relentlessly take on the powerful when they act against the public interest.

As a blogger, I do as much as I can. But our residents need courageous local media to try to put even more scrutiny on what’s going on in town.

To quote writer Jessica Mitford, “You may not be able to change the world, but at least you can embarrass the guilty.”

Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com

Co-owner/Advertising Dir.

Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

Editor/Broadcaster

Tina Feorenzo

Co-owner/Advertising

Michelle Rybeck advertising@theobserver.com Graphic Artist/Real Estate

Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Sports Writer

Robert P. Pezzolla

gm@theobserver.com

General Manager

Kimberley Pezzolla kimpezzolla@theobserver.com

Sales/Classifieds

Had the kids joined in on the fracas, we would concur with the suspensions and the tournament ban. But from what we understand (we have not seen any video from the game) they didn’t join in. Their actions were the same how as most would react. And because of, they get screwed. The NJSIAA really got this one wrong. Then again, that is exactly what they always do so well. —

n Display/Real Estate: noon, Thursday

n Help Wanted: noon, Monday — all ads must be sent to classified@theobserver.com.

KEVIN A. CANESSA JR.

HCCC hosting national symposium

A year ago, the Hudson County Community College Center for Teaching, Learning and Innovation presented a first for New Jersey higher education — a national symposium dedicated to teaching and learning practices to promote social justice in colleges and universities. The symposium, the college says, was enormously successful, and many of the nearly 500 registrants from seven states and 47 colleges and universities encouraged HCCC to make this an annual event.

So, beginning Monday, Feb. 27 and continuing through Friday, March 3, HCCC will present its second annual “Teaching and Learning Symposium on Social Justice in Higher Education,” free of charge to all who wish to attend.

Nearly 40 presenters and panelists include nationally prominent educators, authors, college and university presidents and trustees, community advocates and leaders and students who will

Kearny PD’s LEAD program has graduation ceremony

examine how social and racial issues impact employment, health and the health care system, the environment, mental health, spirituality, the justice system, corporate responsibility and youth advocacy.

Reber said the symposium will begin with welcoming remarks from Dr. Brian Bridges, secretary of Higher Education for the State of New Jersey and former Vice President of Research and Member Engagement at the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).

The keynote address will be delivered by Wayne A. I. Frederick, president of Howard University and distinguished Charles R. Drew professor of surgery.

Among the symposium’s expert presenters and panelists are Dr. Johnetta B. Cole, former and first female African American president of Spelman College; John K. Pierre, chancellor of Southern University Law Center; Jacquie

Kearny PD’s Law Enforcement Against Drugs program, LEAD, has a graduation ceremony recently at Franklin School. Here, Officer Jack Grimm, left, who coordinates the program with Officer Vanessa Sevillano and Sgt. Adrian Marques, the COP commander, poses with Franklin School fifth-grader Lilianna Ventoso after the ceremony.

Abram, author of Hushmoney; Matthew J. Platkin, NJ attorney general; Jessica Pryce, child advocate, social scientist, TED presenter and executive director of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare; Sarah Ketchen-Lipson, Fulbright

scholar and assistant professor, department of Health, Law, Policy and Management at Boston University; and James McGreevey, former New Jersey governor and chairman of New Jersey Reentry Corporation; Hudson County Prosecutor

Esther Suarez and more. Information about the HCCC “2023 Teaching and Learning Symposium on Social Justice in Higher Education” may be obtained by contacting Roberson at proberson@hccc. edu or (201) 360-4775

Contributed photo

TOMKO

Continued from Page 1

have deployed innovative solutions to fix some of the most pressing challenges facing K-12 schools in modern times.

Tomko was chosen from among more than 300 nationwide nominees submitted by readers, journalists, school administrator groups and experts in the K-12 field.

He joins other awardees from coast to coast, spanning Boston; Jonesboro, Georgia; Well, Texas; Bakersfield, California; New York City; Phoenix; and Manassas, Virginia.

“As our schools navigate a time of significant change and uncertainty, I am deeply impressed with the resilience and innovation of our 2023 Leaders To Learn From,” Education Week President & CEO Michele Givens said. “Their unwavering dedication to providing a quality education to every student will have a lasting impact for generations to come.”

“We are honored to shine a spotlight on the exemplary work of these leaders,” Alyson Klein, a project editor for Leaders To Learn From, said. “We hope that their example will inspire and empower educators around the country to make a difference for the students in their communities.”

Tomko was honored for his leadership in the expansion of programs in early-childhood development and special populations in the Belleville schools a district of nearly 5,000 students and his ability to enhance programs and facilities through building partnerships with stakeholders.

Within two years of Tomko’s tenure, the district went from failing the state’s districtwide comprehensive accountability system (NJQSAC) with one of the lowest scores in New Jersey to being named among the state’s high-performing districts, even doubling its scores in financial management and instruction.

Since his arrival in Belleville in 2015, Tomko and his team have also increased full-time general education preschool enrollment from 8% to 87% for the current

school year; expanded the district’s life-skills program; created several academies and vocational programs for students; and established COPE (Community Outreach Program in Education) to grow relationships between non-profit service organizations and the school community.

Most recently, as reported in The Observer, he was behind the addition of sustainable energy solar and wind projects and a teaching greenhouse, which were added to extend learning opportunities for Belleville’s students, and an indoor training facility was designed to support the physical and mental wellness of students, faculty and families.

Now all of this is happening, perhaps by fate, because when he was an undergraduate student at Seton Hall University, he was studying pre-med.

He told Education Week one summer, he got a job as a substitute teacher and it changed the entire trajectory of his career.

“I was initially like, ‘Oh, it’s extra money,’ ... but I’d never wanted be a teacher,” Tomko told Education Week. “Then I got into that classroom, the first or second day, and just fell in love with it. It’s so powerful to have someone in front of you that you know is the future of this community, and when you show them something they didn’t know, it’s such a powerful tool.”

From there, Tomko himself a life-long learner, earned his master’s degree and doctorate in Educational Leadership. His first foray into running a school district was in Elmwood Park, where he was

superintendent from 2010 to 2015. Then, he was among 50 applicants for the Belleville position a few years ago and it appears the Belleville Board of Education is well aware it made the perfect decision in hiring him.

“The board and I congratulate Dr. Tomko on this incredible achievement and the national recognition we have received as a district,” Belleville Board of Education President Luis Muñiz said. “None of this would be possible without the time and dedication realized by Dr. Tomko, our faculty, staff and administration.”

As part of the Leaders to Learn from recognition, Tomko has been invited to participate in the Education Week Leadership Symposium, in Washington, D.C., where he will share district ideas and innovations with fellow honorees and peers from across the country.

During his 24 years as a school administrator, Tomko has received numerous awards and citations for his commitment to students and the communities in which he serves. He is currently an appointed member to the School Ethics Commission and the Governor’s Task Force on Teacher Shortages.

When asked about leading through the pandemic and beyond, Tomko’s focus narrows in on the resiliency of children and their desire to tackle life’s challenges through different pathways.

“How do we get kids back to normal? Well, you can’t do that through educational reinforcement alone,” Tomko said. “You have to create big, new opportunities not the same opportunities.”

‘The board and I congratulate Dr. Tomko on this incredible achievement and the national recognition we have received as a district.’

— Luis Muniz President Belleville BOE

SPORTS & RECREATION

Kearny hoops stars Covello and Hyams reach 1,000 point milestone a week apart

After historic event at Nutley, local girls wrestlers look to standout at Regionals

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

The popularity and participation of girls wrestling has grown significantly in recent years. On Jan. 30, the gym at Nutley High School gave definitive proof at the rapid progression that has occurred both locally and on a statewide level.

More than 10 schools from across North Jersey convened for the inaugural Nutley Female Wrestling Jamboree. Locally, wrestlers from Nutley, Lyndhurst-North Arlington and Bloomfield were among the participants in an event that was the first of its kind in Nutley.

Koster and Isabella Bobadilla - went undefeated on the night as well as Lyndhurst-North Arlington freshman Aitana Lozano.

Another sign of the sport’s growth comes this upcoming Sunday with the NJSIAA Regional Tournaments. The girls tournament has expanded from two regions to four this year.

Nutley and North Arlington-Lyndhurst will compete in the North 1 Regional at Vernon High School. Kearny and Bloomfield will be at the North 2 Regional in Union.

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Maci Covello and Ava Hyams have been a dynamic duo on the basketball court for as long as they can remember.

Whether it was in the Kearny Recreation league when they were first teammates on Alabama, the outdoor court at Manor Park and, for the past four years, at Kearny High School, Covello and Hyams have experienced so much success together.

With such a long-standing connection, it’s only appropriate that both achieved their most significant individual accomplishment just eight days apart.

On Thursday, Feb. 2, Covello scored her 1,000th career point when she finished with 23 to go with nine rebounds and six assists in a Kearny win over St. Dominic. One week later, on Senior Night against Newark Tech, Hyams

also reached the 1,000-point milestone when she finished with 21 points and eight rebounds.

Covello and Hyams became the 10th and 11th players in Kearny girls basketball history to reach 1,000 points and the first since Meagan McClelland in 2018.

“We honestly didn’t really anticipate it happening like this,” Covello said. “We’ve just played so hard all of these years, it just kinda happened.

“We just put in so much work that for us to achieve this milestone, not just one of us, but both, I’m really proud of us.”

While Covello and Hyams compete against each other in almost every drill during practice, both insisted there was no competition over who could get to 1,000 first.

“We never really thought about it being a competition because we’ve always been there for each other and had each other’s back,” said

Hyams. “We just want to win.”

Hyams and Covello have done plenty of winning since those first games as 10-yearolds, with both remembering they went undefeated in that first season as teammates. Soon they went from unwelcome guests at Manor Park pickup games to a tandem that everyone wanted to play with.

“We’d always get recruited to play against the boys,” Covello recalled with a laugh. “At first they didn’t want us there, but we quickly shut them up.”

The two had already accomplished plenty of oncourt success by the time Kardinals head coach Jody Hill first saw them play as seventh graders at Lincoln School.

“I was invited to see them when they were seventh graders and that’s when I was just ‘wow,’” Hill said. “I

Bloomfield has hosted a girls tournament in recent years and is the home of one the state’s early stars in Kira Pipkins who earlier this winter became the first girls wrestler to win 100 matches in New Jersey history.

“It was a huge night for the girls of the sport,” Nutley wrestling coach Mike DiPiano said. “To be able to have so many teams there and to have our administration in the building and have some of the dignitaries in town show up, it was a great showcase for these girls who have been working so hard since the season started.

“It shows the community that this is a real sport and it’s growing. To have (an all-girls wrestling event) in our own gym and to have the teachers and student body to come out in force and support is enormous. I told the girls that if one girl in the crowd felt motivated by watching you and those other girls, it was 100-percent worth it.”

While the event was not a formal tournament, three Maroon RaidersIzzy Timonera, Mariah

Nutley will send a record six wrestlers to the regions next week, a group highlighted by senior Koster, who became the program’s first state medalist when she took fourth in the state at 100 pounds last year. This time, she’s competing at 114 pounds where she sports a 15-7 record.

“She was the trailblazer,” said DiPiano. “She had the courage to come out for the boys team her freshman year and because she had the courage to do that, we have six girls now and hopefully we’ll have double that next year.”

Bobadilla (19-8 at 132 pounds) took sixth in the North region last year and looks to take the next step and go to Phillipsburg. Her, Koster, and talented firstyear wrestlers Timonera (20-8 at 100 pounds) and Carina Rivera (19-9 at 165) also enter with aspirations of qualifying.

“Izzy’s very charismatic and super-athletic,” DiPiano said. “She’s really taken to the sport and this weekend we feel that she can be wrestling late into the day at regions. It wouldn’t surprise me if she can find her way onto the medal stand and

Photos courtesy of Jody Hill

KEARNY

Continued from Page 9

felt like both of them were varsity ready right then. It was exciting to see them at that age. Maci had the athletic ability, tough competitor and you could tell Ava was a little more polished as a basketball player. But the two of them just stood out. There was no doubt in my mind that by the time that they got to high school the two of them playing together would be something special.”

Both Covello and Hyams were starters from the moment they arrived as freshmen. Together they’ve gone 62-30 heading into Monday’s Hudson County Tournament quarterfinal against Hudson Catholic.

A big reason for that success is not just the play of the two senior captains, but the chemistry that has been built from more than eight years playing together.

“I think you can see the years of chemistry come out

when we play,” said Hyams.

“You can just tell that those girls have been playing together for a while.”

“We have experience together so we know each other’s strengths,” Covello said.

“I know how to set up Ava for a shot when she needs it. She knows how to get me in the post. We really play well off each other.”

Now with the 1,000 point celebrations in the past, the focus is singular and that’s doing things that no Kearny team has done in recent memory. Since joining the HCIAL in 2009, the Kardinals have never made it to a Hudson County Tournament semifinal nor a North 1, Group 4 sectional semifinal. They are also one victory away from reaching 20 wins for the first time in five years.

“We know our team is made up of talented, hard working girls and we want to win,” Hyams said. “We scored 1,000 points, but that’s in the past now. We want to win.”

NUTLEY

Continued from Page 9

qualify for states.

“Carina has a little bit of a karate background so she was not scared to come out and get into another physical sport. She’s picked it up really quickly.”

Amahara Flores (126 pounds) and Kaitlyn Aguila (185) round out Nutley’s group heading to regions.

While lacking the experience of their neighboring schools, Kearny will also be sending three girls to the regions. Izalyne Moya is 3-0 at 185 pounds and headlines the contingent, which includes Emily Nazario (109) and Najaliyn Gabriel (114).

“Our girls are very inexperienced in the wrestling world and just letting them know that they don’t have to wrestle boys there are girls that are wrestling,” Kearny coach Tony Carratura Jr. said. “They get all excited and they really want to compete against females.”

Lyndhurst-North Arlington has one of the state’s top lightweights in sophomore Ava Krzykalski, who is ranked fifth in the state at 114 pounds and is 22-4 on the season.

I’m blessed that we got Ava last year as a freshman,” Lyndhurst coach Scot Weaver said. “She was a Junior Pan-American champion in jiu jitsu so she was already a scrapper, we just had to teach her how to wrestle. In jiu jitsu, it’s ok to be on your back, but not in wrestling. She suffered

a couple of losses early on last year due to inexperience and being on her back. She’s totally committed herself and has been a great influence on Aitana as well.”

Lozano, a freshman, is 15-9 at 100 pounds.

The top three finishers from each weight class at each of the four regions advance to the NJSIAA State Championship on Feb. 26 at Phillipsburg and a chance to compete in the overall final at Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall in March.

Premier Car e TALK S

PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS

Psoriatic arthritis, which is joint inflammation that occurs with the skin disorder psoriasis, is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes patches of skin discoloration, irritation, flaking, and scaling. Patients often experience textural brittleness of fingernails and toenails and nail separation from nail beds. Psoriatic arthritis is difficult to diagnose from other types of arthritis that do not have the obvious skin issues, nail changes, and dactylitis (swelling and redness of the fingers and toes). The five types of psoriatic arthritis are distal interphalangeal predominant, asymmetric oligoarticular, symmetric polyarthritis, spondylitis, and the least common yet most severe, arthritis mutilans. The latter causes painful deformation and debilitation in the joints of the

Email

hands and feet due to the severity of inflammation.

A disease management plan should combine medications with other approaches. Because psoriatic arthritis is a progressive disease, different treatment options may be appropriate at different stages. It is important to start treatment soon after diagnosis. To schedule an appointment, 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 . Research says a diet high in vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats offers anti-inflammatory properties that may help with the chronic inflammation of psoriatic disease.

premiercare@gmail.com

Dr. Prakash

J. Doshi

Dr. Hector Aguilar

Photo courtesy of Flora Cifelli Standing back row: Nutley coaches Mike DiPiano and Sabino Coppola. Standing (left to right): Carina Rivera, Amahara Flores, Isabella Bobadilla, Kaitlyn Aguila. Kneeling (left to right): Nicky Ritacco, Mariah Koster, Izzy Timonera, Ralphie DiPasquale.

Anthony Pizzuti has night to remember, sets Lyndhurst scoring record

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

If the way Anthony Pizzuti was feeling in the hours leading up to Lyndhurst’s game against Kearny were any indication, Tuesday night was going to be a struggle for the Golden Bears’ junior forward. What happened instead was a performance for the record

books.

In what had to be the game of his life, Pizzuti set a school record by scoring 53 points in an 88-49 victory for Lyndhurst. He broke the record previously held by John Rodriguez, who had 51 in a 2018 win over Harrison.

For his performance, Pizzuti has been named The Observer

C ELEBRATING 25 Y EARS !

EYE CARE

DeLuca Vision Consultants

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

AMBLYOPIA: NOTHING LAZY ABOUT IT

Amblyopia usually happens in one eye due to a disconnect with the brain that causes it to see from only one eye. The unused eye is often called “lazy eye” and may appear “lazy” or drooping because the brain increasingly relies on the healthy eye as the lesser used eye becomes weaker. People with amblyopia are not lazy and they can’t control their eye function. Amblyopia begins in childhood and can be present at birth or develop later. Children who are born prematurely, born with a low birth weight, have developmental disabilities, or have a family history of childhood eye conditions are at greatest risk for amblyopia. Luckily, early treatment is very successful and can prevent long-term vision

Athlete of the Week. It was a game that Pizzuti and everyone else in the building won’t soon forget, even if the star performer didn’t see it coming.

“Before the game I just wasn’t, I didn’t (feel well), it was just the opposite (of what you want),” Pizutti said. ”During warmups I felt shaky. But then right when I got in the game I felt good. It was a really weird feeling.”

Pizzuti got some easy baskets early in the game - both in transition thanks to being moved to the top of Lynd-

hurst’s press on defense and in the halfcourt. With Pizutti feeling good and the points starting to add up, his teammates made sure to continue feeding him the ball in the paint to take advantage.

“After the first half, everything was just falling,” said Pizzuti, who had 30 points by halftime, then followed it up with 17 more in the third quarter. “Everything for me was falling, all of my shots, I made a couple of and-ones. My teammates were hitting me too since I was hot. It felt

good.”

“We know that when we need a bucket we can go inside to him and he can probably give us that bucket,” head coach Perrin Mosc said. “It helps out the entire team and takes pressure off the entire team because he can get those buckets in a big spot.”

This winter has seen Pizzuti become one of the state’s breakout performers. After averaging less than 10 points per game as a sophomore,

See ATHLETE, Page 14

problems.

Sometimes, a different vision problem can lead to amblyopia. Normally, the brain uses nerve signals from both eyes to see. But if an eye condition makes vision in 1 eye worse, the brain may try to work around it. It starts to “turn off” signals from the weaker eye and rely only on the stronger eye. To schedule an appointment, please call 201896-0096. Our office is located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.

P.S. Amblyopia is the most common childhood eye condition. It may have few to no symptoms, making it difficult to detect without a doctor’s eye exam.

Photo by Jason Bernstein Anthony Pizzuti

Nutley Library will close for a month for planned renovations

A planned construction project will prompt the temporary closing of the Nutley Public Library from Feb. 27, lasting approximately a month.

Feb. 11 will be the last day to request Bergen County Cooperative Library System (BCCLS) consortium materials for pick-up at the Nutley Public Library.

From Feb. 13 and Feb. 25, in-house, Nutley materials may continue to be borrowed. Hold requests can be delivered to and picked up at any of the other 76 libraries in the BCCLS consortium (BCCLS

Locations) of your choice. Please don’t forget to bring your library card when using other libraries.

From Feb. 27 until reopening:

n Hold requests may be delivered and picked up at any other library in the BCCLS consortium. A password (PIN) on your library card account is required to make online catalog requests at bccls. org (make sure you have a password set up on your library card account). Please don’t forget to bring your library card when using other libraries.

Community Investment Loans

n Materials may be returned in the outdoor drop box at the northeast corner of the Nutley Public Library building, or at any other BCCLS consortium library. Materials will be checked-in from your account in a timely manner.

n Complete, 24/7 access to Nutley Library’s digital collections will continue. A PIN on your Nutley library card account is required to access the digital collections. Visit nutleypubliclibrary. org for virtual program offerings and other

important updates. To assist with reference questions or requests and library account renewals and questions, staff will respond to voicemail messages at (973) 667-0405, ext. 2604, and emails sent to library@ nutleynj.org daily.

Community First Loans

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

loan to value with 20% equity or 20% down payment. Rates and annual percentages are effective as of the publication date of this ad and are subject to change. Please speak with our Mortgage Department for additional terms and conditions that may apply. Subject to credit approval. Other rates and programs are available.

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

OBITUARIES

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.

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.

Isabella Miller Duncan

Isabella Miller Duncan, 96, of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, died Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023 at Prince George Healthcare in Georgetown, South Carolina.

Mrs. Duncan was born in Kearny to the late Robert and Annie Miller. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star’s Arlington Chapter of Kearny, Faith Chapter of Pt. Pleasant and Wall Chapter of Spring Lake Heights.

Mrs. Duncan was also a member of the Lady Guards Auxiliary of the Greater Pt. Pleasant area and past president of the Woman’s Club of Pt. Pleasant. After living in Kearny and then Pt. Pleasant, she moved to Murrells Inlet where she enjoyed quilting.

She was preceded in death by her husband Thomas.

Mrs. Duncan is survived by her daughter Barbara (Tom) Hotaling; son Thomas Duncan; grandchildren Lauren Holland, Jason Hotaling, Megan Boorjian, Michael Duncan and four great-grandchildren.

6 reasons to consider a pet-friendly retirement home

Research has shown that caring for a pet benefits people of all ages, especially seniors. Here are six reasons to consider moving into a retirement home that allows pets.

1. Promotes physical activity. Owning a pet can help you stay active. For example, dogs must be walked several times daily, and cats enjoy frequent playtime.

2. Encourages social interaction. Having a pet encourages you to leave your apartment and socialize.

3. Prevents loneliness. Pets provide valuable companionship and can alleviate isolation and loneliness, especially if your family and friends live far away.

4. Fosters routine. Taking care of a pet requires a structured routine, pro -

viding you with a sense of purpose and satisfaction.

5. Improves mental capacity. Mental stimulation is vital for keeping your mind sharp. Caring for a pet can help ward off dementia and improve your cognitive function.

6. Lowers stress. Hold -

ing or petting an animal has been proven to lower blood pressure and boost your mood.

If you can’t care for a pet on your own, look for a retirement community that allows family members to bring pets to visit or provides sessions with specially trained the rapy animals.

I

12, 1931

April 17, 2002

Services will be private. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Brielle.

Memorial Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org/sc/ donate.

An online guestbook is available at www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com.

Goldfinch Funeral Home Beach Chapel is in charge.

Donald V. ‘Tex’ Teixeira

Donald V. “Tex” Teixeira of Kearny died Feb. 9, 2023.

He was 50.

Visiting was at the Armitage

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

& Wiggins Funeral home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Service will be Tuesday morning in the funeral home at 11 a.m. and burial will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. Tex was the son of John and the late Shirley (nee McDermott) Teixeira and is survived by his wife Melissa Faria, his children Vincent Teixeira, Anthony Teixeira, Robert Texeira, Heather Faulk, Christopher Teixeira and Donald Cloyes. Brother of John and April Teixeira, he was also the uncle of Mathew Faulk, Nicholas Faulk, Elizabeth Faulk, Brianna Teixeira and Gracie Teixeira.

Shaw-Buyus

Home for Services

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

Mario Teixeira, Jr. Director, NJ Lic. #2542 • Monique Teixeira, Director, NJ Lic. #4048

Newly renovated family owned and operated funeral home with multiple locations.

Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. Handicapped Accessible.

138 DAVIS AVE. • KEARNY, NJ 07032 (201) 991-2265 www.buyusfuneralhome.com

Mulligan Funeral Home

331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison

Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221

Frank X. Mulligan, Jr. Inactive

Private Parking at 10 Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. North 973-481-4333

visit us at: www.mulliganfh.com

WILFRED ARMITAGE & WIGGINS FUNERAL HOME

Mark G. Wiggins, Manager N.J. Lic. #3916

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

A breath away is not far from where you are.

Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home 596 Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657

HAPPY BIRTHDAY & VALENTINE’S DAY IN HEAVEN

Mom, it’s been 21 years since you left my arms and it feels so much longer than that. I never had imagined how lonely life would be without your smile knowing that you hear me, keeps me so alive.

“You are the wind beneath my wings” & Always My Hero “Till we meet again 143”

Continued from Page 11

Pizzuti now ranks among the top scorers in the state at 21.8 points per game. In addition, Pizzuti averages 10.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 2.0 steals per game.

Pizzuti has double-doubles in 16 of 23 games this season and has scored 15 or more points in 17 straight games for the Golden Bears, who are 15-8 heading into the final week of the regular season.

“Last season I didn’t have a really good season. I played nervous because I was young and playing on varsity,” said Pizzuti. “But this season, I really got the nerves out. I’m just playing like myself.

“I think I improved on

going to the basket and using my body. Last year, I didn’t use my body. Coach tells me to use my body more and I think that’s helped a lot.”

Mosca also praised Pizzuti’s ball-handling skills that allow him to bring the ball up the court and handle the point if necessary.

“I saw him in a couple of games in the fall league, but he ended up hurting his ankle after two games, but I did see some flashes of his athletic ability,” said Mosca. “The way he could jump and control the ballrebounding and then dribbling the ball. His athletic ability is really something that I didn’t know was going to be as good.”

Pizzuti’s season has had some college coaches inquiring about his

post-high school plans, which is a surprise since up until this point, the majority of his focus has been on baseball. As a sophomore, Pizzuti was a First Team All-League selection after going 4-2 with a 3.17 ERA on the mound.

“I’m leaning more towards playing baseball in college, but after this season I’ve become open to (playing) basketball,” said Pizzuti. “Basketball was never my thing, but after this season, I’ve been having a lot of fun. It’s kinda hard right now for me to choose. It’s always been baseball for me and I intend to stick with it, but it’s really hard to choose.”

Regardless of where his future ultimately goes, Pizzuti’s place in the basketball record books is sure to stand for years to come.

www.TheObserver.com

WHATCo. ‘Charlie Brown’ auditions set for later this month

The West Hudson Arts & Theater Co. will host open auditions for “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” Feb. 26, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Feb. 27 and 28 from 7 to 9 p.m., with a call back day March 2 from 7 to 9 p.m., at the theater, 15 Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. S., Harrison.

Production dates are April 22, 23, 29 and 30.

“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” is a musical based off of the classic Peanuts comic strip written by Charles M. Schulz. This musical follows Charlie Brown and his friends as they go through their day-to-day adventures.

Actors aged 21 to 75 are invited to audition. Gender for the actors playing the roles are flexible, so please be

HOMICIDE

Continued from Page 1

at a motel on Biscayne Boulevard in Miami, by members of the United States Marshals Service Southern District of Florida, in conjunction with the United States Marshals Service New York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force. He is being detained at the Miami-Dade Turner Guilford Night Detention Center as a fugitive from justice, pending extradition to New Jersey.

Miranda Lopez has not yet been apprehended and anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to contact the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office at (201) 915-1345.

On Monday, Feb. 6, 2023, Luz Hernandez was reported missing to the Jersey City Police Department. On Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023, a welfare check was conducted on Van Horne Street on a missing person’s report. The findings resulted in the Jersey City Police Department contacting the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office for assistance and Cesar Santana was identified as a person of interest in the matter.

During the course of the investigation, it was determined Cesar Santana and Leiner Miranda Lopez were involved in a motor vehicle

ready to audition for all roles. Three nights of auditions will be focused on singing and dancing. Please prepare 32 bars from a song from the show, or from the song of your choice for audition night.

A choreographer will teach a 16 count number to all auditioners, so come dressed comfortably and prepared to dance. The director is looking for principal players and also a strong dance ensemble. Prepared sides and monologues will be handed out at callbacks.

stop on Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023 on Central Avenue in South Kearny, prior to Luz Hernandez being reported missing. The vehicle was unregistered and impounded by the Kearny Police Department. A court-authorized search of the vehicle was executed on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023, and additional evidence was recovered.

The Kearny Police Department, knowing details of the traffic stop, led the Homicide Unit to the area of Central Avenue and Third Street in South Kearny, where investigators ultimately located what appeared to be a shallow grave.

There they found Hernandez’s body.

The Regional Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of death to be blunt force trauma to the head and compressions to the neck and the manner of death to be homicide.

This investigation is active and ongoing and no additional information will be released at this time. Additional charges and/or arrests may be expected.

Anyone with 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.

A note on COVID-19: all actors will be required to provide proof of vaccination when auditioning. Masks will be mandatory during the rehearsal process leading up to

tech week. If you are unable to attend the audition dates listed above but are still interested in auditioning, video auditions will be accepted until Feb. 25 at

9 p.m. Submit audition videos to director Amanda CastroConroy at CharlieBrown@ whatconj.org. Visit www. whatconj.org for details and audition materials.

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT

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

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

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 2nd fl. apt. 2 BR’s Close to everything. $1800 + 1 month security. utilitites seperate. No smoking. No pets. Avl. March 1st (908) 9370272 41W03

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

PT Vacuum Repair Tech

Needed 9am-1pm M-F

Disassemble unit Assess problem areas, estimate and perform repairs Polish aluminum as needed Will Train $15/h 201-955-0001 40W03

Car Painter needed for Body Shop & Body man on Schuyler Ave., Kearny.

Experience Preferred Call and ask for Macario (201) 997-0295

41W03

P/T Admin Days/Weekends: Must have Strong Computer & Verbal skills. General Office Knowledge. Fast paced office. Bi-Lingual a plus. Email resume to c21deniseL@gmail.com

41W03

Need Drivers/ Loader, pick-up passengers in van and load in helicopter. Full/Part time position Retires welcome call (862)849-2652 Location Kearny NJ Heliport

41W07

Part Time Bookkeeper Growing real estate development and management company seeking part time bookkeeper. Minimum 10 years experience. Flexible hours. 973-491-9494 Send resume to office@mmdevelopmentllc.com

41W03

Want your ad to stand out from the rest? Try adding some C O L O R

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

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 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 “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

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

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

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

N.ARLINGTON Beautiful Skyline of NYC! 2 BR’s. EIK W/Stainless Steal appliances. Close to Pharmacy & Super Markets. Parking for 1 car. $2000 + 1 months security. Heat included. Laundry on premises. Spacious closets. Pet friendly. Available now Credit Check (201)9987011 41W03

KEARNY

KEARNY Large room

Newly painted. With private sink & refrigerator. Utilities included. Single occupancy only. Close to public Transportation. Positivley no smoking/pets. Gentlemen preferred. Security required. $190 weekly. Call (973)830-7498 41W03

3 benefits of cobuying a home

Are you ready to buy your first home but don’t have enough savings? You may want to consider co-buying. Co-buying is when two or more people purchase a property and agree to share ownership. This can be a partnership between a couple, relatives or close friends. Here are a few benefits.

1 .IT’S MORE AFFORDABLE. Splitting down payment and mortgage payments makes owning a home more affordable. This can help you purchase a nicer home in a better neighborhood. You can also save on utilities and other household expenses.

2. IT HELPS YOU BUILD EQUITY. Cobuying can help you start building equity in a home earlier in life. Building equity helps build wealth, and wealth can give you financial stability.

3. IT CAN GIVE YOU A SECOND INCOME. If you co-buy an investment property with a friend, you’ll each benefit from the ability to use the rent to pay off the mortgage and ultimately gain passive income.

Finally, keep in mind that co-buying doesn’t come without risks. It’s best to speak with a real estate agent and financial professional to determine if co-buying is the best decision for you.

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When Fourth Ward Councilman Gerald Ficeto asked if the town could go after a contractor for failing to make good on a promised completion date, Santos said: “The law makes it extremely difficult to penalize a contractor” for missing a due date.

Still, Santana pressed for a more assertive response by the town.

“We’ve been through COVID — all we hear is, ‘Oh, it’s on back order.’” If there’s a specified timeline on a project, he said, the town should have a mechanism to deal with that.

While not committing to pursue an enforcement mechanism, Santos directed Town Administrator Stephen Marks to get copies of the invoice and purchase order for the delayed part, along with the dated written notice from the contractor advising that the part wasn’t available.

The mayor didn’t say what, if anything, would happen after town officials reviewed those records.

Later, Santana said he wanted the contractor and Neglia to make sure if they do get a substitute part, “I don’t want an inferior quality product and they’re in agreement about that.”

Santos, meanwhile, expressed

impatience with another utilities project involving PSEG replacing light poles along Passaic Avenue. Silva said Public Service was supposed to have crews working last Friday but they were tied up with an emergency elsewhere and had provided no return date.

When they do return, Silva said, it will probably take “six to eight weeks” for PSEG, in tandem with Verizon, to set up new poles, re-wire them and take down the old poles.

Reporting on the status of the mandated replacement of water service lead lines, Silva said the contractor hired by Kearny has finished digging 365 of 529 outside water meter pits to check for possible lead piping and is currently working in the Manor section. Santos called for more coverage in the town’s southern portion, such as Paterson and Devon streets and Woodland Avenue.

First Ward Councilman George Zapata and Third Ward Councilwoman Eileen Eckel recommended the contractor check the test pits for loose gravel in areas where children are playing to protect against the town’s liability.

Silva replied: “we have experienced some settling and we’ve had the contractor making sweeps to check along Woodland and other streets.”

ENContinued from Page 3

to be decided, and continue with the county post.

“It’s very disappointing to have to leave,” he said. “It’s been an honor to serve.”

He’s presided generally every Tuesday except for cancelations if there are no cases scheduled.

“I was the youngest (municipal) judge in New Jersey when I was appointed at age 31,” he recalled. Since then, he’s been reappointed 10 times for 3-year terms, the first nine by former Smith and the most recent by Grilo.

He said he’s “verbally notified the mayor” and “she’s trying to find a

replacement.”

On a side note, he’s still permitted to perform weddings.

Meanwhile, Lindenfelser said his departure as a judicial arbiter leaves him free to pursue politics, an avocation his father pursued as a councilman and mayor of Kearny, representing the GOP ticket.

“I’m considering getting involved now (in his hometown of Kearny) — whatever I can do to serve my community,” he said, “as opportunities present themselves.”

But the Third Ward resident acknowledged that however he does participate, it won’t be as a Republican. “In local politics, I can be more useful as a Democrat,” he said.

He declined to say what office, if any, he might be seeking, assuming that’s his ultimate intent.

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Former Kearny Mayor Kenneth H. Lindenfelser, left, with son, Kenneth J. Lindenfelser, East Newark’s outgoing municipal court judge.