e-Newspaper for May 17, 2023

BELLEVILLE CLASSICS

Sons of the American Legion put on huge, successful car show for the first time

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

The Belleville Sons of the American Legion are a very active squadron. So it should come as no surprise that on the first weekend of May, the organization put together its first-ever classic car show. And by the looks of things — there were 40+ cars put on display — it was a hit.

The vehicles, organizers say, ranged from as old as from the 1920s and as modern as from the 2010s.

The weather May 7 was perfect — and so, too, was the

In North Arlington, it’s all

about responsible development

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

When he sought re-election last year, North Arlington Mayor Daniel H.Pronti consistently said redevelopment would be a key items for him and the Borough Council. Now, four distinct locations have been clearly identified, and those lofty goals, once just a dream, will soon translate into reality.

North Arlington has created four redevelopment zones both large and small that borough officials say they are eager to upgrade. Some areas are residential neighborhoods, creating a balancing act for North Arlington leaders to ensure any redevelopment effort enhances the area’s quality of life.

“For many years, there were parcels of property in North

See NA, Page 7

turnout.

Cars completely lined the parking lot at the Post, plus completely filled the Motorcycle Mall lot next door. The mall’s owner donated the use of their parking lot for the day. Cars that entered the show were asked for a $25 donation, which will go toward funding veterans and children and youth programs in the community.

Among the more noted cars were a 1923 Model T Ford, a 1948 Ford Stock Super Deluxe Coupe and a 2017 Polaris Sling

See CARS, Page 18

Fire causes major damage to Argyle Place home

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

Photo by Rusty Myers

This classic Ford was one of more than 40 that were on-site for the Sons of the American Legion’s first-ever classic car show. Organizers say they hope to have other similar events in the future.

Two minor injuries were reported and there was extensive damage following a fire in the early-morning hours of Thursday, May 11, on Argyle Place in Kearny. Read a recap on Page 4.

Unknown male makes fake activeshooter call about Washington M.S.

All Harrison schools were locked down after

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

The heavy police presence around Harrison’s Washington Middle School

May 10 and other schools in town thereafter was caused by a SWATTING incident that morning when an unknown male called the Harrison Police Department to falsely claim there was an active shooter at the middle school, the Harrison PD said.

According to Harrison PD, the call was made at 11:36 a.m. Harrison police immediately responded to Washington MS and the entire building was quickly searched there was never an active shooter at the school at any time and no students, teachers or staffers were ever in any imminent danger, the police said.

Out of an abundance of caution, all schools in town were placed on immediate lockdown at that time and police were sent to all schools to help keep order.

“Thank you to the surrounding agencies for their prompt response and assistance during this incident,” Harrison PD said. “The Harrison Police Department is actively investigating this incident.”

Police say “swatting is the action or practice of making a prank call to emergency services in an attempt to bring about the dispatch of a large number of armed police officers and emergency personnel to a particular address.”

Harrison Police Chief David Strumolo did not return messages seeking comment for this story.

Apple Maps

Harrison’s

Washington Middle School was the target of a SWATTING incident last week. In a phone call to police, an as-yet unknown male told police there was an active shooter at the school. However, there was no active shooter and fortunately,

no one was ever, at any point during the incident, at risk of harm.

KPD: Shoplifter also had drug paraphernalia on her

By Capt. Timothy Wagner Kearny Police Department

On April 28 at 3:38 p.m., Officers Alvaro Goncalves, Travis Witt and Sgt. Phil Finch responded to ShopRite where a manager had accused Monica B. Tene, 26, of Belleville, of shoplifting. Specifically, management alleged Tene concealed $137.94 worth of soaps, Axe body spray and Claritin liquid gels in a bag and passed all points of sale without paying.

Incident to Tene’s arrest, officers learned she had a plastic container in her purse that is commonly used to package crack-cocaine. The officers also learned Tene was wanted by Elizabeth police for a prior shoplifting charge.

Tene was charged with shoplifting and possession of drug paraphernalia before being transferred to the Hudson County Jail.

On April 28 at 5:05 p.m., Officers Travis Witt, Jonathan Lima and Sgt. Phil Finch were dispatched to a domestic violence call at a residence. There, a 31-year-old woman with signs of injury told Sgt. Finch she had an argument with her 34-yearold brother about the bed on which she had slept.

The brother allegedly took the mattress out of his sister’s room, struck her on the hand and threw her to the floor. The brother reportedly told Officer Witt he wouldn’t talk to him, wouldn’t show him identification and wanted a supervisor at the scene.

Obligingly, Sgt. Finch, a supervisor, was already at the scene and determined there was probable cause to arrest the brother for simple assault under domestic violence laws.

The brother was charged by summons with simple assault and later released.

On April 29 at 11:43 p.m., Officer Anthony Oliveira was on patrol and watched a Toyota SUV run a red light at Kearny Avenue and Belleville Turnpike. When Officer Oliveira pulled over the Toyota, driver Edwin Salvatierra, 52, of Belleville, reported he had no driver’s license and his driving privileges might be suspended.

Officer Oliveira arrested Salvatierra after confirming he was, indeed, driving with a suspended license.

Incident to arrest, the officer found Salvatierra possessed a Social Security card and a U.S. Permanent Resident card issued in another man’s name and a

TD Bank debit card issued to a woman.

The Social Security and Resident cards were later determined to have been fraudulent.

Officer Oliveira arrested Salvatierra for unlawful possession of credit cards, two counts of possessing false government documents. He also issued Salvatierra traffic tickets for driving with a suspended license and failure to observe a traffic control device before releasing him with his summonses.

On April 30 at 2:52 a.m., Officers Danny Maganinho, Jose

Castillo and Sgt. Dean Gasser responded to a private home for a report of a domestic dispute. Officers found a 32-year-old woman standing in the building’s foyer with a bruised and bloody nose. The woman told cops she had an argument with her 32-year-old partner after she came home late. The partner found evidence of infidelity in the victim’s phone and allegedly punched her in the nose.

Officers took the assailant under arrest for simple assault. They learned the Kearny Municipal Court had issued an arrest warrant for the man for allegedly committing a simple assault against the same victim less than two months earlier.

After lodging his new charges, officers held the man in the county jail in South Kearny.

On April 30 at 7:22 p.m., Officer Tom Collins was sent to ShopRite on a shoplifting complaint. The officer was shown store surveillance footage of a man, later identified as Victor M. Martinez Jr., 35, of Newark, opening an Immodium anti-diarrhea medication package, taking the medication, throwing away the packaging in a trash can and then trying to exit the store through the entrance door without paying the $11.99 retail value.

Officer Collins took the man into custody and later released him after charging him by summons with shoplifting.

MEMORIAL DAY PARADE

Thursday, May 25, 2023

Belgrove Drive, Kearny

On the solemn Memorial Day Weekend we remember the departed...and we honor those to whom honor meant all...with sorrow and pride, with respect and gratitude. To the valiant, who sel essly gave all, that our great nation might endure in strength and freedom, we pay heartfelt tribute. May the memory of their gallant deeds ever inspire us.

Assembly on Locust Avenue at 6:30 p.m. Parade begins at 7 p.m.

Proceed south from Locust Avenue to Bergen Avenue

Parade reviewing stand will be on east side of Belgrove Drive between A on and Bergen

Grand Marshal Keith McMillan Commander Post 99

Master of John Cleary Ceremonies NJ State Department Commandant

Invocation Dr. Lillian Ramos

First Baptist Church of Kearny

National Anthem Kearny High School

Welcome Address Mayor Alberto G. Santos

Gettysburg Address Adrian Linares Kearny High School Senior

Principal Speaker Keith McMillan

Benediction Reverend Elaine Connolly First Presbyterian Church

Mayor

Alberto G. Santos

Council Members

President

Carol Jean Doyle

Marytrine De Castro

George Zapata

Peter Santana

Richard Konopka

Eileen Eckel

Gerald Ficeto

Stathis Theodoropoulos

In case of rain, services will take place at Post 99, American Legion

2 minor injuries reported in Argyle Place fire in Kearny

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

Afire in the early-morning hours of Thursday, May 11, caused serious damage to a home at 224 Argyle Place in Kearny.

Kearny Fire Chief Joseph Mastandrea tells The Observer that morning, at approximately 3:20, the Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire. The first company arrived on scene and found a well-involved fire encompassing two floors.

“Our members tried to make entry into the building but were driven out due to the amount of fire,” the chief said. “Defensive operations commenced to limit the fire from extending to nearby structures and extinguish the fire.”

And that’s exactly what resulted. Though there was apparent damage to the vinyl siding the home next door due south, there was no other damage

to the adjacent buildings.

Mastandrea says the occupants and a family pet were able to self-evacuate prior to the Kearny FD’s arrival.

The fire was ultimately placed under control at 5:35 a.m.

Prior to leaving the scene, firefighters reported two minor injuries.

The Red Cross responded to provide assistance to the residents.

All Kearny Units operated at the scene and mutual aid partners, the Harrison, Jersey City and Bayonne fire departments, provided coverage for the town whilst the Kearny FD was battling the blaze.

The Kearny Fire Department’s Bureau of Combustibles continues to investigate the fire to determine its origin and cause.

“I want to thank our members for their hard work and the Kearny Police Department and RWJBH EMS for their assistance at the scene,” Mastandrea said.

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

Donna Masters, principal of Garfield School, announces the following recipients for Student of the Month for March 2023.

Kindergarten: Alexandra Lopez, Patrick Murphy, Elias Tapia.

1st Grade: Emilina Distano, Benjamin Espinal, Martin Perez.

2nd Grade: Thiana Carlos Hidrogo, Stev Pardo, Irina Torres.

3rd Grade: Karen Amaya, Thierry Oliver, Jose Rojas Alvarado.

4th Grade: Isabella Gallego Cruz, Benjamin Machado, Amelia Vargas.

5th Grade: Jayden Acevedo, Ryan Desimon, Jeremiah Escalante, Jamiel Ordonez.

6th Grade: Mason Scarpa, Robert Titterington, Emily Valladares Cruz, Max Weber.

Photo by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

A closeup look at the damage following a May 11 fire at 224 Argyle Place in Kearny.

Hudson County Community College Programs are National Award Winners!

Our innovative student success program is life-changing!

HUDSON SCHOLARS Helps All Students Complete Their College Education, achieve their goals, and realize their dreams.

HUDSON SCHOLARS Helps Students Overcome Barriers to Continuing Their Studies

The program . . .

• Provides financial support for reaching academic milestones

• Provides personalized academic coaching and advising

• Addresses family responsibilities and employment concerns

• Facilitates the transition to college

• Creates relationships across campus

• Fosters engagement and a sense of belonging at HCCC

HUDSON SCHOLARS Counselors Work One-on-One with Students. Hudson Scholars counselors monitor and advise students and work collaboratively with students’ instructors.

“I felt the one-on-one contact made me more con dent. I felt like someone cared, and I was not just another student.”

– Hudson Scholars Participant, Christina Arteta, HCCC Class of 2023

OPINION & VIEWPOINTS

Frantantoni: Scutari & transparency?

That’s absolute nonsense, folks

To the Editor:

Last week, someone — it ’s not clear who it is, yet, but it will be soon— called the Harrison Police Department and told them officers needed to rush to Washington Middle School because there was an active shooter there.

That’s exactly what police did, all while sending officers to each and every school in town to help keep everyone calm and orderly during what might otherwise have been a very taxing time for all.

Yet when all was said and done, thanks be to God, there was no shooting. No shooter. No one, thus, and fortunately, was hurt.

And even though none of the aforementioned happened, SWATTING incidents like this one could have led to utter disaster. And have in the past.

What if a police officer entered the school and saw someone who appeared to be a shooter? What if someone took the law into their own hands with knowledge of a so-called active shooter? Think about this for a moment along with any number of potential scenarios where a fake call to police about a shooter could possibly go awry.

There have been many such instances across the country over the years, whether it’s directed at schools, gamers looking to get an advantage ... whatever. These incidents aren’t just disgusting, they could be and have been deadly.

We are fortunate none of our students, teachers or staffers were hurt. But what if one or more had been? What if a life was taken? And it all started with a prank?

We’ve seen many cases where SWATTERS are young people — and it wouldn’t be shocking if such was the case at WMS last week. And, when the cases involve minors, the cases are often heard in juvenile courtrooms.

We believe regardless of the age of SWATTERS, the consequences must be significantly stronger than a slap on the wrist. To treat these cases lightly — and they often are — is a recipe for disaster, one that may one day lead to carnage. If that day ever comes, it would be beyond tragic. Creating stricter punishment, therefore, isn’t just a “nice thought” — it must become a reality before it’s just too late to matter.

The Elections Transparency Act, ETA, sponsored by Senate President Nicholas Scutari, definitely has the wrong title. The legislation should rightfully be called COPA, the Corrupt Officials Protection Act. This bill completely destroyed the power of the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission. Recent reports by The Record of Sen. Scutari’s campaign-spending reports reveal why the “Gang

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

of 120” in Trenton passed this bill.

Activists like me have been rooting out corruption in New Jersey politics for decades.

In Belleville, our Concerned Citizens of Belleville group, in 1993, submitted alleged corruption activities in our town that resulted in a 59-page State Commission of Inves-

tigation report of corrupt activities in our township.

With this new two-year statute of limitations, that complaint would not have seen the light of day.

With the new major increases of campaign-donation limits, the Trenton pols have opened the doors to the powerful power brokers to legally spend more to buy votes.

Transparency? Hogwash!

Vincent J. Frantantoni Belleville

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Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

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Sales/Classifieds

Penalties for those who SWAT police need to be swift & severe

NA

Continued from Page 1

Arlington that sat unused, with dilapidated buildings and litter,” Pronti said. “The Borough Council is methodically looking at each and every property and assessing if redevelopment opportunities exist that can benefit the at-large community and our visitors.”

The mayor says municipal taxes have not increased in North Arlington for six years; ongoing redevelopment efforts and the new tax revenue that has been generated have been a prime reason.

Here is a look at the four ongoing redevelopment initiatives:

Ridge Road Development Area

Pronti and the council say they are

eager to continue to redevelop the Ridge Road corridor, recognizing the enormous benefit of development downtown.

The mayor noted the survey results of residents and business owners indicate the need for more foot traffic on Ridge Road. Creating a vibrant business corridor has been addressing concerns over vacant storefronts and allow new businesses the time they need to develop a strong customer base.

Restaurants, bars and coffee shops are succeeding on Ridge Road, Pronti says. Still, borough officials want to create an even more diversified mix, including retail, to create a genuine, mixed-use destination. Factoring in new residential components is also key to enhancing the customer base.

New residential construction has

replaced parcels that had been long blighted, such as The Ridge at 235241 Ridge Road, a 30-unit, four-story apartment complex that replaced an abandoned lumber yard in 2018 and The Opus, built in 2021, a 49-unit development at 77 Ridge featuring a rooftop terrace and a lounge for tenants that replaced a rundown, overgrown lot.

Under new zoning rules, no new building may exceed four stories in height and must include corresponding parking, onsite, to accommodate every unit.

“These types of developments bring people to town,” Pronti said. “They are spending money in our local businesses and are helping the southern portion of Ridge Road flourish.

New vibrancy encourages more

investment, Pronti says, adding a new doctor’s office has opened and The Tavern took over a bar that had been out of business for 12 years.

“It’s all dressed up now,” the mayor said, noting the trendy artwork décor on the outside of the building.

On River Road, meanwhile, there’s another focus is to create a river walk from the Belleville Turnpike to Riverside County Park. The effort also focuses on redeveloping parcels now either abandoned or contaminated. The borough received a grant to clean up the contaminated properties. Porete Avenue

Since 1989, the borough has targeted Porete Avenue for redevelopment, determining the area is blighted after years of industrial use from factories.

Continued on the next page

Pinwheels to prevent child abuse

Continued from previous page

Since then, the borough has constructed a new road to ease traffic and divert truck traffic from neighborhoods. A redevelopment plan will be done in stages, the mayor said, to ensure smart growth and a limited increase in trucks.

Hughes Redevelopment Area

The area at Sherman, Canterbury and Schuyler avenues, in the northeast of town, was deemed a redevelopment area last year. The borough hopes to make the land more economically viable, invigorate underused parcels and redirect trucks.

“It was once an auto repair

and car dealership that has been stagnant for years,” Pronti said. “It is an eyesore. There are now concept plans we are considering, working out the kinks. I think this land is ideal for redevelopment.”

The mayor is cognizant of Canterbury Avenue being residential; so any redevelopment there must conform with adjacent properties.

“We are hoping to ultimately reduce truck traffic,” Pronti said. “We envision keeping commercial use and adding on-site parking. We want any enhancements to be contained on the parcel, with no parking spilling over into the neighborhood.”

Belleville Turnpike

The borough has deemed the area in need of redevelopment, but a plan has not yet been created.

Pronti said town officials are seeking ideas from investors to make the property between Ridge Road and Rutherford Place more attractive. It is the site of Pizza Land, 260 Belleville Turnpike, and other established businesses, which would be incorporated into any project.

Pronti again stressed all development will be smart development and must include ample parking. The development area comprises an entire city block and space would need to be allotted for spaces for shoppers.

Essex, Union, Hudson and now Bergen County

www.lusitaniabank.com/mortgages

Yearly, the Woman’s Club of Lyndhurst plants pinwheels to bring greater awareness to the abuse of children. Members are seen here with Mayor Robert B. Giangeruso.

Contributed photo

SPORTS & RECREATION

Kearny baseball makes surprising Hudson County Tournament run

Lyndhurst softball eyes a brighter future ahead with young roster

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

On first glance, it may be jarring to see Lyndhurst’s softball team with a record below .500 and likely on the outside looking in when the state tournament is seeded next week.

But with a roster that includes just one senior and as many as six freshmen in the starting lineup, first year head coach Diana Auteri knew that the approach this season had to be a little different than in previous years when the Golden Bears were strong contenders in the NJIC and the North 2, Group 2 section.

notable exception to that has been freshman catcher Gianna Lembo, who quickly established herself as one of the NJIC’s top leadoff hitters.

Lembo is hitting a stellar .375, while also leading the team in hits (18) and stolen bases with 16.

“Gianna has a lot of potential,” said Auteri. “With her speed, she can be a threat. She can ever get into that lefty batters box and we can turn her into a slapper. She has all the talent and is capable of greatness moving forward.”

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

After a trying regular season that included a 1-13 record in the HCIAL American Division, it would have been easy for Kearny’s baseball team to be focused more on the upcoming summer than the Hudson County Tournament.

Instead, the Kardinals are playing their best baseball of the season.

On Thursday, Kearny, seeded 11th, snapped an eight-game losing streak

when it defeated Snyder, 8-1, in the first round. Two days later, Kearny had perhaps its finest performance of the spring when it went to West New York and upset sixth-seeded Memorial, 5-4, in the second round.

With the win, Kearny advances to the quarterfinals for just the second time since 2018. On Tuesday, the Kardinals will look to pull off their second consecutive comeback when it faces a Ferris team that has made the final each of the past two years.

“I think these boys have a

new life,” head coach Dave Smart said. “They want to play, they want to be there, I think they’re starting to get that confidence and believe in themselves. That’s something we haven’t had in a while.”

Another thing the Kardinals hadn’t enjoyed for most of the spring was a healthy William McChesney. The junior battled a bone bruise on his wrist for most of April before sitting out two weeks in hopes of healing the inju -

“That’s been the theme all year,” Auteri said about her team that is currently 4-15. “Not worrying about the wins and losses, but worrying about growing, developing, learning the game. They’re so young and I think a lot of people don’t realize how young they are.

“No one likes to lose, but they have a great attitude. They smile, they laugh. For my first year as a head coach, I absolutely love this group and I tell it to them all the time. They want to learn, so they soak it in like a sponge.”

Most of Auteri’s young players have endured ups and downs over the course of the spring, understandable considering their lack of experience. The most

Three more freshmen start on the Lyndhurst infield. Ava Woolis is at first base and Aitana Lozano, who is also a fine wrestler during the winter.

At shortstop is Nikalena Iacono, a standout shot put thrower in the winter as well a key contributor on the soccer pitch. Softball is considered her top sport however and despite some struggles at the plate this season, Iacono stole eight bases, played good defense at short and is set to be a core piece for years to come.

“I’m expecting her to step it up a little bit next year,” Auteri said. “She can also be a threat (at the plate) and I’m really excited to see her grow.”

At third base is the team’s lone senior, Leah Ricig-

See KEARNY, Page 10

Photo by Jason Bernstein

From left to Right: Kearny baseball seniors Elier Jimenez, Lucas Perez, Jayden Casanova, Joey Rocco, Kyle Raefski, Joseph Drefko, Bryan Diaz and Rexhep Berisha.

KEARNY

Continued from Page 9

ry.

Since returning on May 8, McChesney has returned to being the player he and Kearny anticipated. McChesney had arguably the best pitching performance of his career on Saturday when he tossed 4 2/3 no-hit innings against Memorial with seven strikeouts and six walks. He also went 3-for-4 with a run, RBI, triple and double against Snyder.

“He came out, he was effective and I really think he can be a heck of a pitcher if he stays focused and stays within himself,” said Smart. “He can really get the job done.

“I think now not having that pain and uncomfortable

feeling in his wrist is starting to show. We knew something was up with the way he was swinging in the beginning of the year. He takes a lot of pride in the way he swings the bat and we knew something was off. Now that it’s healed, we see the difference in him.”

Senior Bryan Diaz was the offensive star on Saturday, going 2-for-3 with three RBI and two stolen bases for Kearny, which built up a 5-0 lead with three runs in the top of the third inning, followed by an additional in the fourth and fifth.

Sophomore Jonah Menendez, who took over at first base following injuries to McChesney and others, scored two runs in the victory and Trayton Witt added a run and a RBI.

C ELEBRATING 25 Y EARS !

EYE CARE

DeLuca Vision Consultants

UNDERSTANDING CHALAZIONS

A chalazion is a red bump that forms on the upper or lower eyelid. It is also called an eyelid cyst or meibomian cyst. The eyelids have tiny oil-producing glands that help keep the eye moist. If a gland becomes clogged, a chalazion can form due to the blocked gland retaining oil and becoming swollen. The gland should eventually drain, leaving behind a hard red bump. Although chalazions are generally painless, they can cause the eye to become irritated or watery, resulting in pain and discomfort. Larger chalazions can put pressure on the eyeball, which may cause blurry vision. You can try treating a chalazion at home with warm compresses, or have it drained by

Kearny’s unlikely to qualify for next week’s state tournament, but the past few days have affirmed Smart’s belief that they’re better than the 4-17 record indicates.

“We’re a lot better than our record shows. We had a couple of rough games where one inning, two innings, a couple of timely at-bats went against us,” said Smart. “I think the guys right now, and we’re pretty senior dominated, realize that this is it for them. They’re coming out to play, they’re working hard and it’s fun to watch and be around.”

Kearny wasn’t the only local team to play its best baseball in the Hudson County Tournament. Harrison, which was seeded 16th, erupted for a stunning 25 runs to defeat University Charter in the playin round and earn its first victory over the season this past

Wednesday. A day later, the Blue Tide’s offense, which had been previously averaging two runs per game, had another big day, scoring 14 in a heartbreaking, 15-14 loss in eight innings at Dickinson.

Lyndhurst earned the 24th and final spot in this year’s Bergen County Tournament and while the Golden Bears run ended with 10-1 first round loss to Bergenfield, the experience should prove beneficial heading into the state tournament.

In the Bergen County Invitational, North Arlington got a no-hitter from Robert Carselda in the Vikings’ 3-0 victory over Fair Lawn this past Wednesday. Carselda, a junior, struck out two and walked four, while also helping his own cause at the plate with two RBI. North Arlington fell to Demarest, 8-2, in the semifi-

nals on Saturday.

In softball, Kearny, the No. 5 seed, kicked off its Hudson County Tournament run with an emphatic 19-1 victory over McNair in the second round, setting up a third matchup with fourth-seeded Hudson Catholic on Tuesday in the quarterfinals.

Harrison, the 15th seed, delivered a first round upset when it went to West New York and upset 15th-seeded Memorial, 7-3. Janiyah Gutierrez continued her stellar senior season by going 3-fo4 with a RBI and three stolen bases. Gutierrez has quietly been one of the area’s premier batters, hitting .489 with four home runs, 28 RBI and 21 stolen bases.

Harrison’s tournament run ended on Saturday with a 15-6 loss to a 16-3 St. Dominic squad.

an ophthalmologist. You may be able to avoid getting a chalazion by following good hygiene. Some essential elements of good hygiene include washing hands thoroughly and often, washing hands before removing contact lenses, washing your face to remove dirt and makeup, and throwing out old or expired makeup. To schedule an appointment, please call 201-8960096. Our office is located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-8960007. We accept most insurance.

P.S. Chalazions and styes are similar, but they are not the same thing. A stye is a bacterial infection in the eyelid, which can cause a chalazion to form.

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Wednesday, May 17, 2023

LYNDHURST

Continued from Page 9

liano. A returning starter, Ricigliano leads the team in runs (13), extra-base hits and walks, while being a leader for her younger teammates.

“She stepped up big time this year,” said Auteri. “On the field, her defense got sharper at the hot corner. She gained a lot of strength and became solid for us in the No. 3 spot in the order.”

Another returning starter is junior center Kiera Docherty. Surrounding Docherty has been a rotation in left and right field with freshmen Mia Montalto and Mylah Campbell and sophomores Madeline Turano and Kiana Marizan.

The main pitcher has been

junior Emily Reed. Reed, who served as the backup to fouryear starter Ella Tozduman, has recorded 56 strikeouts in 67 innings this season. Auteri is optimistic about the potential of

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Reed and Montalto in the circle. Montalto, who has served as a reliever and spot starter, has 25

strikeouts in 33 innings.

Lyndhurst was set to play New Milford on Monday night,

the first of four road games to close out the regular season. From there, the Golden Bears play Harrison on Wednesday, North Arlington on Thursday and Park Ridge on Saturday. For Auteri, the goal of this final week is clear - to end on a high note and build some momentum into the offseason and years to come.

A lot of people may not understand (how young we are) when they see our record. But as long as we know we’re putting in that work (we’ll get better),” Auteri said. “I said to them in a couple of years from now, people will say, wow they came a long way. We’re going to grow every day as long as we’re putting in the work.”

temperature and fevers and are also commonly used to treat colds and flu, headaches, menstrual cramps, sprains, muscular strains, toothaches, and joint discomfort.

Don’t use an over-the-counter NSAID continuously for more than three days for fever, and 10 days for pain, unless your doctor says it’s okay. Over-the-counter NSAIDs work well in relieving pain, but they’re meant for short-term use.

To schedule an appointment, please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-998-7474, or visit us 7 days a week at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B, where walk-in patients are always welcome 7 days a week.

P.S. Aspirin, produced in 1897 by Felix Hoffman of the Bayer company, was the first NSAID.

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.

Photo by Jason Bernstein

Frm left to right: Lyndhurst head coach Diana Auteri, Nikalena Iacono, Gianna Lembo, Ava Woolis, Emily Reed, Leah Ricigliano, Madeline Turano, Kiana Marizan, Aitana Lozano, Mia Montalto, Mylah Campbell and assistant coach Grace Catena.

Dr. Prakash J. Doshi

Dr. Hector Aguilar

Harrison’s De La Cruz joins elite company with 1,000th assist

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Michelle advertising@theobserver.com

Newspaper: The Observer

In the moments following his 1,000th career assist on May 9, Jose De La Cruz was mobbed by his teammates, given a ball to commemorate the honor and posed for countless photos with family and friends.

how to set, how to receive. He taught me how to be a volleyball player. Everything I know is because of him. I reached this milestone to show my brother that his work was not put to waste.

1,000 assists) and he got it done. We’re really proud of him.”

201-991-1600

Watching on a livestream 3,000 miles away was the person De La Cruz credits the most for reaching the milestone - his older brother Leader, who is currently stationed at a U.S. Marine base in California.

“He watched the live stream from the YouTube page. He told me that he was proud and I was really happy he said that.”

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While 1,000 assists is, by definition, an individual milestone, both Landy and De La Cruz know that it is one that is in many ways a team accomplishment since it can’t be achieved without a teammate converting the pass into a kill.

Landy said. “We use him as a setter because that’s where he wants to be and that’s where he’s practiced, but he could have been an outside hitter, he serves well and is a real strong player. As a player, he definitely brings a lot to the table. He’s able to block, he’s able to keep us on the court and keep us in the match.”

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“He was also a setter and he’s the one who taught me how to play,” said Jose De La Cruz, who first started playing volleyball in seventh grade. “He taught me

De La Cruz became just the fourth Blue Tide player to reach 1,000 assists, joining Victor Narvaez, Jimmy Vega and Sandro Barrantes. He then followed it up with his two highest assist totals of the season, getting 31 in a three-set win over Bayonne the next day and a 32 a day later in a three-set victory against

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These performances have earned De La Cruz The Observer Athlete of the Week honors for this week.

For the season, De La Cruz has 470 assists, which are the sixth most in the state.

“Before the season, I do a thing where we set our own personal goals and then we set team goals,” head coach Nick Landy said. “One of his goals was to get a ball in that case (for

“I am so thankful to my hitters - QQ (Guilherme Queiroz), Adrian Vivanco, Adrian Jimenez, Gabriel Mocelini, Frank Barrera - because if it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t have reached the milestone,” said De La Cruz. De La Cruz’s ability to get all of his teammates involved is a big reason for Harrison’s current 21-2 record. Queiroz, Vivanco and Jimenez all have more than 100 kills on the season.

According to Landy, De La Cruz also has the ability to accomplish similar stats as an outside hitter.

“Not only can he set, he can do everything on the court,”

With the milestone out of the way, all focus is now on what is set to be the biggest week of the season for Harrison. The Blue Tide, currently ranked No. 5 in the NJ.com Top 20, played rival Kearny on Monday, the first matchup between the two since last year’s state tournament win by the Kardinals.

Two days later, Harrison begins its quest for its third Hudson County title when the Blue Tide, seeded third, play its quarterfinal match. The semifinals are set for Thursday and the final is scheduled for Saturday.

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Photo courtesy of Nick Landy Jose De La Cruz

Catherine Caprio

Catherine Caprio (nee Watters), of Point Pleasant, 89, died peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, May 11,2023.

Born in Jersey City, Catherine was raised in Harrison. She graduated from St. Cecilia High School in 1951. Catherine married the love of her life, Andrew Caprio, in 1956, and shortly after they were married, they moved to Kearny where she raised her family for many years before settling in Point Pleasant in 1999.

Catherine loved traveling and visits with her family in Scotland and getting together with her classmates at their high school reunions. Dancing was one of her favorite pastimes and she enjoyed with her family and friends.

She was a devout Catholic and a parishioner of St. Cecilia in Kearny for many years, later becoming a parishioner at St. Peter’s Church in Point Pleasant where she was an active member of their Rosary Society.

Catherine was predeceased by her parents, Thomas and

OBITUARIES

Mary Watters, her brother Thomas and her loving husband of 65 years, Andrew S. Caprio. She is survived by her children, Cathy Berko (Harry), Andrew Caprio (Dawn), Mary Beth Zielinski (James), Thomas Caprio (Lisa), Annmarie Tarleton (Albert), Judy Ferriero, Joan Rose (Robert), 21 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, her sister Margaret and niece Karen Kolenda, her nephews Thomas and Timmy Watters and niece Melissa. Catherine loved spending time with her family and many friends, visiting her

children and grandchildren, and celebrating all holidays and special life events together. She knew how to light up every room she walked into and was always the life of the party. Catherine truly lived her life to the fullest and will forever leave an everlasting memory on every person she encountered.

A visitation for Catherine took place at O’Brien Funeral Home, Brick. Her funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Peter’s Church, 406 Forman Ave., Point Pleasant Beach, on Tuesday, May 16, 2023

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

Remembering Kevin Raftery

October 5, 1973 - May 8, 2022

In our hearts you hold a place, no one else can ever fill. The memories, jokes, and stories are warmly lingering still. It broke our hearts to lose you, but you didn’t go alone; for part of us went with you, the day God took you home.

-

at 11:30 a.m. Interment will follow in Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery, Wrightstown.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Catherine’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 601 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105 or Point Pleasant First Aid Squad, 1200 Beaver Dam Road, Point Pleasant, N.J. 08742.

For information, directions or to leave condolence messages to the family, visit www.obrienfuneralhome. com.

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

Anne H. Davies

Anne H. Davies died May 10, 2023.

She was 89.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Cremation was private.

Anne was the wife of Leslie Davies and was the mother of Leslie Davies, Kimberley Davies-Leahy (Billy) and Alexander Davies. She also has six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to your own favorite charity in Anne’s memory.

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The Town of Kearny is accepting applications for Full time laborer needed in the Department of Public Works to do street cleaning, street/sewer repairs, line painting, truck washing, maintenance/cleanup of parks and playgrounds, garage and shade tree maintenance and other related duties.

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BELLEVILLE 3rd floor

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Sunday, May 14, marked the beginning of National Police Week. We at The Observer take this time to pause to remember all of the women and men in blue who have made the ultimate sacrifice so you and I can live in safety. We also thank all police officers, but especially those in Kearny, Harrison, East Newark, North Arlington, Lyndhurst, Belleville and Nutley — and all who put their lives on the line every single time they walk out their front doors to head to what it often thankless duty. Your sacrifices are not forgotten by us — and we thank each and every one of you for your service to our communities, the State of New Jersey and the entire nation. Meanwhile, in observance of the coming week, Mina Ekladious, president of Kearny PBA 21, released the following statement:

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incidents involving gunfire. Out of those 41 incidents, three of those LODD would be from New Jersey. In January, we lost Customs and Border Protection Supervisory Officer Jacqueline Montanaro and New Jersey State Police Lt. Gerald T. Barbato. This month, we tragically lost Deptford Township Police Officer Robert Shisler to gunfire.

“National Police Week is a time for the law enforcement community, spouses, children, family, friends and residents of the communities that we serve and protect to remember and honor all law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. In 2022 there were 246 line-of-duty deaths in the United States. To date in 2023, there have already been 41 line-of-duty deaths with 19 of those tragic

“Every single day across the country, law enforcement officers go to work for 8 to 12 hours, in some cases longer. During their shifts, these officers are helping members of the communities that they have built a rapport with or a complete stranger. After each call for service, these officers have to essentially hit the reset button to handle their next call. Picture that previous call for service to be a fatal motor vehicle crash. Police officers have to respond to the scene, render first aid, direct traffic, document the crash and in sum handle the next call that comes in. There are not many professions outside of the first responder field that require this ‘reset.’

“This is why you should support police, fire, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, nurses and doctors, amongst similar professions, that requires a courageous individual to put on that uniform and help people they may know

Continued on the next page

BEREAVEMENT GROUP

National Police Week is underway across the country

Continued from previous page

— and strangers. We’re ordinary people taking on extraordinary tasks.

“On behalf of the Kearny PBA, we send our most heartfelt condolences and support to the family, friends, co-workers and the Deptford Township community for the recent loss of Police Officer Robert Shisler. Police officers go

to work every day with one thing in mind — and that’s making it home to their family. Families of law enforcement officers go to work every day hoping their loved one makes it back home at the end of their shift. During Police Week, I ask that you remember those officers we have lost and thank those that continue to serve and protect your community.”

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Kearny Eats! program is right around the corner

Kearny Eats! returns

June 2 to June 18.

Kearny-based eateries –

from sit-down and takeout restaurants, to juice bars, bakeries, cafes and

others – are encouraged to participate in the free marketing program designed

to attract new customers. Kearny Eats! is not unlike Restaurant Weeks

popular in other communities. Participating eateries are asked to provide a special Kearny Eats! offer or discount that will be promoted to both Kearny residents and customers in surrounding communities through digital media, social pages like Facebook and Instagram and digital and print advertising. There is no fee to participate and to do so, send an email to kearnyeats@ gmail.com to participate. The deadline is May 15.

CARS

Continued from Page 1

Shot SL.

Oh and did we mention there was a contest, too?

The idea for a car show started last fall 2022, when SAL First Vice Commander James Elsmore, who is himself the owner of a Ford Mustang, devised the idea. A veteran of a few car shows himself, he ordered nine trophies to hand out at the event.

Some categories included “Veterans Choice,” “SAL’s Choice,” and “ALA’s Choice” — all of which were chosen by respective judges from each organization … the American Legion, the Sons of the American legion and the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA).

The largest trophy, though, adorned with stars and stripes, an engraved plaque, and topped with a gold steering wheel, was given for “Best In Show” — which awarded to Harry Puch, the owner of a Brandywine-red 1967 Chevy Nova SS.

Organizers say everyone had a blast, and there’s a possibility for future, similar shows.

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