WHATCo’s MurderMystery trivia slated for later this month

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

The West Hudson Arts & Theater Company’s annual murder mystery dinner theater experience returns this year with the original production of Trivia Night Murder, written by award-winning local playwright and author Allyssa Hynes, with fundraising performances Friday & Saturday, March 24 and 25 and are being hosted at the American Legion Post 99, 314 Belgrove Drive, Kearny.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. There is plenty of parking on site.

The annual event sets its sights on the long-standing competition at the local pub trivia game, which had never proved deadly before – until now. With a big competition and exciting prizes on the line, it looks like someone in this game decided the “answer” was murder.

During the evening, the audience will be able to take part in an actual trivia game where their table may win a prize.

And, of course, they’ll be asked to solve the lighthearted murder-mystery as it unfolds throughout a three-course buffet dinner, catered by Carmine’s Italian Deli.

Tickets are $50 per person and include a dinner buffet, soda, tea and dessert. A cash bar will be available in Buddy Room. The tickets will only be sold online at www.whatconj.org or by phone (201) 540-9428. Reserved tables of up to seven are also available. Groups and organizations welcome.

IF YOU GO ...

n WHAT?: WHATCo’s Murder Mystery Trivia Night, written by Allyssa Hynes n WHEN?: Friday & Saturday, March. 24 and 25 at 6:30 p.m. n WHERE?: The Kearny American Legion Post 99, 314 Belgrove Drive n COST?: $50 pp. Includes buffet dinner. Cash bar available. Buy tickets (available online only) at www.whatconj.org.

Tickets will not be sold at the door for this production.

Trivia Night Murder stars Paula Baratta, John Fraissinet, Nelson DePasquale, Roman Koster, Matt Masiello, Denise Organisciak, Lauren Proda, Alexis Saarela, Ed Shea, Jessie Thiele, Deborah Vartan as the suspects and investigators. John Fraissinet will play “Winston,” which is the male version of the “Victoria” character. For more information, visit www. whatconj.org.

Assistant Superintendent Of Public Works

The TOWN OF KEARNY is accepting applications for the full-time position of Assistant Superintendent of Public Works. The town is seeking an experienced professional with technical knowledge and strong leadership skills to effectively assist the Superintendent with the Department of Public Works which consists of staff of 35. The position entails assistance of planning, supervising and directing all aspects of public works including, but not limited to: recycling center, roads, public buildings and grounds, parks, fleet maintenance, shade tree, snow removal, sanitary sewer system, and sidewalk permitting and inspection. Also includes contract administration for tree removals, landscaping and janitorial services.

The successful candidate should have at least four years’ experience in a supervisory and administrative leadership capacity. Certification in Public Works Management (CPWM) is required along with a Class B CDL License or the ability to acquire one within 6 months.

Salary negotiable based on qualifications and experience. Appropriate Candidate have opportunity for advancement Send application, resume and cover letter with desired salary to Paula Cavalier, Personnel, at 402 Kearny avenue Kearny, NJ 07032 Please go to https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ for application and job description. All resumes must be received no later than March 31, 2023.

The Town of Kearny is an EOE 42W04

Superintendent Of Public Works

The TOWN OF KEARNY is accepting applications for the full-time position of Superintendent of Public Works. The town is seeking an experienced professional with technical knowledge and strong leadership skills to effectively manage the Department of Public Works which consist of staff of 35. The position entails planning, supervising and directing all aspects of public works including, but not limited to: recycling center, roads, public buildings and grounds, parks, fleet maintenance, shade tree, snow removal, sanitary sewer system, and sidewalk permitting and inspection. Also includes contract administration for tree removals, landscaping and janitorial services. The successful candidate should have at least five years’ experience in a supervisory and administrative leadership capacity. Certification in Public Works Management (CPWM) is required along with a Class B CDL License. A Sewer Collection System Operator License (C3) is required or the ability to obtain within the required time. Salary negotiable based on qualifications and experience. Send application, resume and cover letter with desired salary to Paula Cavalier, Personnel, at 402 Kearny avenue Kearny, NJ 07032 Please go to https:// www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/

All resumes must be received no later than March 31, 2023.

The Town of Kearny is an EOE 42W04

GENERAL LABOR

L&R Manufacturing at 57 John Hay Avenue, Kearny is looking for 2 individuals to help in our facility. 1 for light assembly work and assisting wherever is needed – 40 hours/week and 1 part-time person for cleaning – 15 hours per week. We offer 2 weeks paid vacation after 1 year, company contributed 401K plan, company paid life insurance plan, healthcare and a great working environment.

MUST speak English.

Please fill out application at 57 John Hay Ave or 577 Elm Street, Kearny or call Irene Barutis at 201-991-5330 x212 for more information

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LIFEGUARD

Lifeguards/Lifeguard supervisor needed for summer open swim program 6/26-8/25. Valid lifeguard training & CPR cert req. 35 hours per week. starting rate is $15 per hour.

Application deadline 4/1 For Applications go to https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 44W04

Recreation Playleaders

Playground Play leaders needed for summer recreation program. 6/26 -8/18 Play leaders will supervise playground activities during our summer recreation program. 25-30 per week.

Starting Rate is $10.00 per hour.

Application deadline 4/1 For application Go to https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/

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Part Time Public Information Officer

The Town of Kearny is currently accepting applications for the Part Time position of Public Information Officer (PIO). The PIO shall be responsible for press releases, emergency communications, public event promotion/ coordination, establishing good working relationships with the news media and general public, as well as monitoring and maintaining all social media platforms, and updating the Town’s website. Specifically, the PIO shall write short narratives and post photographs and other visual graphics as necessary on the Town’s internet website and related social media platforms. Candidates should have excellent written and verbal communications skills, experience updating internet webpages and posting on social media (i.e. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.). The PIO may also be expected to review and edit other public information materials (i.e. the annual Town calendar, newsletters, brochures, etc.) as necessary. The PIO shall work with the Mayor and Town Council, Business Administrator, and municipal department heads. The PIO shall use digital technologies for the purpose of reporting on resident and community issues, feedback and other data points. Must have basic video and graphic editing skills. Candidates should submit a resume, cover letter and portfolio of their work with their job application. A Bachelor’s degree in a related subject area is a plus (e.g. Communications, Journalism, English, Marketing, Graphic Design, etc.). The ability to work during off-hours is also necessary. A valid New Jersey driver’s license is required. Proficiency in Spanish or Portuguese is a plus. The salary is negotiable based upon experience and qualifications.

A complete list of requirements as well as an application for employment can be found at: https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ Applications should be submitted no later than March 27, 2023.

The Town of Kearny is an equal opportunity employer.

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The Town of Kearny (Hudson County) is currently accepting applications for the position of Special Law Enforcement Officer (SLEO), Class III. Under the command of the Chief of Police, the SLEO will be assigned to work within Kearny School District facilities as an added level of security.

An applicant must possess a NJPTC certification for SLEO III or Basic Course for Police Officers (Class A Certificate) with less than 3 years separation from a full-time New Jersey law enforcement agency. Applicants must be a U.S. citizen, less than 65 years in age at the time of appointment and possess a valid New Jersey driver’s license. Applicants must be able to pass a background investigation, pre-employment medical examination, and NJ Attorney General drug screening.

Applicants must be physically capable of performing the functions of this position determined in accordance with the NJ Police Training Commission.

Applicants must be retired from a law enforcement agency and submit a letter of good standing issued by the agency from which the officer retired, listing the date and type of retirement. The starting salary for the position is $34.00 per hour. The anticipated work schedule will be 8 hours per day, 180 days per year, and shall coincide with the Kearny Public Schools calendar.

A complete list of requirements as well as an application for employment can be found at: https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/

Applications should be submitted no later than March 27, 2023

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BELLEVILLE 3 Bedrooms, LR, DR EIK w/ Granite. 2nd floor. H/ HW included. No Pets. $2,500+ 1 mth security. Available April 1st (973)885-4433 44W03

KEARNY Newly renovated. 3rd floor. 2 BR’s, LR, EIK. appliances supplied. C/A. 1 Parking space.$1750 + 1 months security. Utilities separate. Close to Trans. No Pets/Smoking. Available April 1st (973)493-1021 Call after 5PM 43W03

KEARNY renovated 4 bedroom apartment, $2300 + 1.5 Months security , no pets , no smoking , separate utilities, call 201-772-9965 Available Now 43W03

KEARNY 2 BR’s, 1.5 Baths, LR, DR, Washer/Dryer, Assigned parking, Central Air, No Pets/Smoking. $2500 + 1.5 Months security. Available Now. Background Check. Call (509)987-6115 44W03

KEARNY Newly Remodeled 2 BR’S, LR, Kitchen $1380 + 1.5 months security. utilities separate. No pets. Available April 1st Dukes St. Front Hudson Park. (908)240-9302 (973)391- 3868 44W03

KEARNY 2nd floor. 1 BR, LR, EIK. $1400 + 1.5 months security.Utilities included. No pets. Available Now (201)428-7864 44W03

KEARNY Spacious room for rent in a brand new house for single person (female preferred).Shared kitchen and bathroom. Utilities

N.ARLINGTON

N.ARLINGTON 2nd Fl. 1 BR, LR, DR, EIK With yard. Quiet Building. Near Transportation. $1450 + Plus utilities. 1.5 months security. No Dogs/Smoking Credit check. Available April 1st (973)838-1662 44W06

How to paint upholstery

ROOFING/SIDING

Do you have an old chair or couch lying around with outdated upholstery?

Don’t throw it away! Paint it instead. Here’s a short guide on how to give your furniture a new life.

Choose the right paint

Although you can purchase fabric paint specifically designed for painting furniture, latex and acrylic paint also work. However, you must use a fabric or textile medium. Use a ratio of one part paint, one part fabric medium and two parts water.

Prepare the fabric

Vacuum all the nooks and crannies in the furniture to eliminate dust and debris. Spot clean stains with water and a little dish detergent and let dry. Then, tape around the chair or sofa legs, including decorative accents you don’t want to cover in paint.

Next, use a spray bottle to wet the fabric. It doesn’t need to be soaking wet, just damp. That’ll help the first coat of paint soak into the fabric.

Apply the paint

Use a wide paintbrush or sprayer to apply the first coat of paint while the fabric is still damp. Use a smaller paintbrush to reach areas where the fabric folds. Let dry completely. Once dry, sand the fabric with extra fine sandpaper to keep it soft to the touch.

Repeat this process as many times as necessary. The number of coats required depends on the paint color and fabric you’re painting. Smooth cotton or poly blends are the easiest to paint, while textured and woven fabrics are more challenging.

Visit a home improvement store and speak with a paint specialist for tips on how to get the best results.

Shrek

Continued from Page 1 their first time on the stage and all will be doubling as stagehands,” she explained.

Fortunately, Gonzalez said, the Shrek story, a children’s picture book created by William Steig in 1990 — subsequently adapted by DreamWorks Animation as a popular film starring Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz and John Lithgow — was well-known to this generation of students who, the director noted, “seem to have grown up modeling Shrek (by) accepting others for their differences.”

As outlined by Wikipedia, the story tracks the odyssey of “an embittered ogre named Shrek (who) finds his swamp overrun by fairy tale creatures banished by the obsessive ruler Lord Farquaad. With the help of Donkey, Shrek makes a pact with Farquaad to rescue Princess Fiona in exchange for regaining control of his swamp.”

KHSMTA is using the Broadway version of the story, with book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori. Professional musicians from the tri-state area, led by KHS alum Danny Conde, will accompany the actors.

Conde has served as instrumental music director for Harrison High School productions the past six years.

“Shrek” marks his second appearance in Kearny.

Assuming the lead roles in the Kearny show are 9th-grader Miguel Pinero, as Shrek; 12th-grader Matthew Ganzer, as Donkey; 10thgrader Gia Kaminski, as Fiona; 11thgrader Joseph Hurtado, as Lord Farquaad (he played “Mr. Softee” in last year’s production of “In the Heights”); and 10th-grader Brianna Lopez, as Dragon (she played Daniela in “In the Heights”).

Miguel, Matthew and Gia are all first-time Academy performers.

The script calls for Shrek to speak in a thick Scottish accent, but that presented no problem for Miguel.

“My grandfather is from Scotland and I got the accent from him,” he explained.

As for the four solo numbers assigned to his character, Miguel is an

With

accomplished singer, as evidenced by his having performed with “American Young Voices,” an international educational organization which sponsors concert programs, combining student choruses from around the Garden State in multiple public performances.

For Matthew, “Shrek” will be his first musical, but he’s not entirely new to the world of show business — his dad is a professional Broadway stagehand.

Matthew’s casting came about by chance.

“I had joined a singing group (separate from the Academy) at school and people in the group suggested I try out for the role of Donkey,” he said.

Matthew has been watching videos and tracks of the show to better familiarize himself with the songs.

Gia, who was promoted from understudy to tackle Fiona, is no stranger to musical performing: she studied at the Kearny-based Vision Dance Studio 12 years and has done shows with several theatrical troops outside her hometown, the most recent being “Applause” in Scotch Plains.

Gonzalez, who is directing her 14th show in Kearny, offered a teaser of what, in particular, to look for from her young but spirited thespians’ interpretation of “Shrek” — “lots of ogre humor and lots of energy from Donkey.”

Key helpers include Owen Seaver, vocal director; John Bednarczyk, art and lighting director; David Caravella, sound design; and Kathleen Astrella, business administrator.

The show runs March 16, 17 and 18, at 7 p.m., at the KHS auditorium. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $8 for students and senior citizens.

There’s also an extra treat in this year’s program: KHSMTA will offer a “Fairytale Fun Day,” for ages 3 and older, on March 18, from noon to 3 p.m., at the high school, featuring “Pinnochio Limbo,” face painting, photos with the cast, vocal excerpts from the show, musical chairs, story time with Shrek and Friends, special prize from a treasure chest and light refreshments for $1.

Admission is $5.