e-Newspaper for June 7, 2023

JESUS: THE REAL PRESENCE

As feast of Corpus Christi approaches, Catholics reminded the Eucharist is the actual body of Christ

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. With the Rev. Joseph Mancini & Deacon Earl White

On Sunday, June 11, 2023, Catholics throughout the United States will observe the Solemnity of Corpus Christi (the Body and Blood of Christ). To celebrate this day, St. Stephen’s parish is hosting its annual street procession of the Blessed Sacrament starting at St. Stephen’s

Church, around 1 p.m., (immediately following the noon Mass) and ending at approximately 2:15 p.m., back at St. Stephen’s. This is a particularly important time for Catholics because it is on this day the Catholic Church in the United States continues on a threeyear National Eucharistic Revival

initiative at the parish level. We caught up with the Rev. Joseph Mancini, pastor of St. Stephen’s, to discuss the street procession, its meaning and what the Eucharistic Revival is all about.

Q: What is a Corpus Christi procession?

Fr. Joe: The Corpus Christi proces-

sion, most often held on the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ, is a public witness of faith and worship of the Most Blessed Sacrament. It’s founded upon the church’s belief that Jesus becomes substantially present See CORPUS, Page 19

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

Belleville opens 2 of its first-ever pickleball courts

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

One of the nation’s fastest-growing sports is coming to Belleville.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil Belleville’s first two pickleball courts took place June 3.

The courts are located across from tennis courts at the Municipal Sports Complex, next to the varsity baseball field and dog park accessible via the driveway off of Division Avenue.

Andy Peeke, a former University of Colorado football star-turned-pickleball coach, was on hand to give a brief introduction to the sport.

Peeke, who is certified by the International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association, will give the public a crash course on some of the rules and strategy of the

sport.

How fast?

Almost 5 million Americans are playing the latest in racquet sports, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. ESPN last month announced it had

reached an agreement with the Professional Pickleball Association to broadcast eight tournaments, including the national championship in Dallas in November.

You know this sport is a phenomenon when TV

talk show host and Jersey guy Stephen Colbert form a celebrity pickleball tournament.

“Belleville wasn’t going to escape pickelball’s wave of popularity,” Township Manager Anthony Iacono said. “There are a lot of residents who are taking up the sport, and we created these courts to accommodate them.”

For now, access to the

courts will be on a firstcome, first-serve basis. The township, however, will be monitoring the demand for the courts.

Peeke will also be hosting a four-week clinic at the courts. The clinic will take place each Wednesday starting on June 21.

Iacono said the town is planning to build two more courts as part of an overhaul of Plansoen Park, adjacent to School No. 9. Town officials rejected bids for the project because they were deemed too costly, but the mayor and council will begin the process again.

“Providing recreational facilities for our active adult residents to play pickleball dovetails into my ongoing goal to create a healthier and happier Belleville,” Mayor Michael A. Melham said. “Pickleball is a great game for athletes of all ages because it ties in fun and fitness. Anytime we can open a new active space for our residents is an exciting moment.”

Kearny’s Fernandez heading to US Naval Academy later this month

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

Kearny’s Mikael J. Fernandez, a graduate of High Tech High School in Secaucus, and the son of Michael Fernandez and Josie Millan Fernandez, will be inducted into the Naval Academy Class of 2027 on June 29, marking the beginning of six challenging weeks of basic midshipman training during Plebe Summer.

Approximately 1,200 candidates from the entire country are selected each year for the academy’s “plebe” or freshman class, and each student is required to participate in Plebe Summer. During this time, plebes have no access to television, movies, the internet, or music and restricted access to cell phones. They are only permitted to make three calls during the six weeks of Plebe Summer.

The pressure and rigor of Plebe Summer is carefully designed to help plebes prepare for their first academic year at the Naval Academy and the four years of challenge that awaits them. As the summer progresses, the new midshipmen rapidly assimilate basic skills in seamanship, navigation, damage control, sailing and handling yard patrol craft. Plebes also learn infantry drill and how to shoot 9 mm pistols and M-16 rifles.

I-DAY 2-2-2

Other daily training sessions involve moral, mental, physical and professional development and team-building skills. Activities include swimming, martial arts, basic

rock climbing and obstacle, endurance and confidence courses designed to develop physical, mental and team-building skills. Some 40 hours are devoted to the instruction of infantry drill and five formal parades.

More than 4,400 men and women representing every state in the U.S. and several foreign countries make up the student body, known as the Brigade of Midshipmen. Upon graduation, midshipmen earn a bachelor of science degree in a choice of 26 different subject majors and go on to serve

at least five years of service as commissioned officers in the U.S. Navy or U.S. Marine Corps.

While the incoming class is relatively small, last year, for example, the Naval Academy received approximately 13,000 applications.

One of 3 from the same school Mikael is one of three from High Tech High School heading to the academy late this

summer. But you’ll forgive us for focusing on our local hero this go-round.

“I am very proud of Mikael,” mom Josie says. “We do not come from a military family and his desire to serve truly comes from him. During his sophomore year when he came to us with the desire to apply to the Naval Academy, my only thought was that I knew that he was capable and

Contributed photo Mikael J. Fernandez, of Kearny, the son of Josie and Michael Fernandez, shows his Naval credentials. The High Tech High School senior will head to the academy June 29 as a member of the Class of 2027.

See USNA, Page 14

KPD: Woman with stolen DLs tried to break into vacant home

By Capt. Timothy Wagner Kearny Police Department

On May 17 at 7:27 p.m., Officers Anthony Oliveira, Danny Maganinho, David Vazquez and Sgt. Dean Gasser investigated a report of a person breaking into a vacant house on Seeley Avenue.

Officer Oliveira arrived at the scene to find a woman climbing through the house’s freshly-broken front window. Identified as Frances A. Garrison, 59, of Kearny, the woman said the house had been her parents and she had forgotten her key. The officers noticed signs someone had been squatting in the vacant house. After contacting a person in authority, officers learned the house had been vacant for approximately two years. It had reportedly been foreclosed on by the mortgagee and no one had permission to enter it.

Officers arrested Garrison and found during a search she possessed eight driver’s licenses bearing her

photo but utilizing different names. Three of the licenses were purportedly from Pennsylvania, three from Florida and one each from California and Ohio. Garrison also possessed eight Sovereign Bank Visa debit cards corresponding to the names on the eight licenses.

Officers charged Garrison with trafficking in personal identifying information of another, criminal mischief, fraudulent use of credit cards, possession of false government documents and defiant trespass.

Garrison was later housed in the Hudson County Jail.

On May 19 at 1:45 a.m., Officers Luis Cazares, Tom Collins and Sgt. Sean Kelly were dispatched to a domestic dispute at a home. A 33-year-old resident there reported he had just returned from a bar with his 27-year-old girlfriend when an argument erupted. The girlfriend then allegedly scratched the boyfriend’s chest with her fingernails and threat-

ened to hit him with a beer bottle.

Seeing scratches and swelling on the victim’s chest, officers arrested the girlfriend for simple assault. They later released her with a summons.

On May 21 at 7:54 p.m., a Kearny resident reported to Officer Derek Hemphill she has a restraining order against her 49-year-old ex-boyfriend and he has been contacting her in violation of the order. Recently, the ex-boyfriend showed up at the victim’s friend’s house in another town while the victim was visiting, and also sent a card, flowers, text messages and called the victim’s job.

Even more alarming, the victim reported she took her car in for service and the mechanic found a small GPS tracker had been affixed to the frame of the victim’s vehicle which would report her location in real-time to the person who placed it.

Officer Hemphill filed a charge of contempt against the ex. The victim

did not wish to pursue additional charges. On May 23 at 9:45 p.m., the boyfriend turned himself in to Officer Anthony Oliveira at police headquarters and he was booked on the contempt charge and also held on arrest warrants from Wayne (stalking) and Essex County (child neglect). The officer also issued the suspect a traffic ticket for failure to surrender a suspended driver’s license.

The suspect was later transferred to the Hudson County Jail.

On May 22 at 1:54 a.m., Officer Michael Ore and several backup officers were dispatched to a domestic dispute at a private home. There, a 27-year-old resident reported during an argument with his 24-year-old ex-girlfriend, the woman punched him in the face.

Officers observed red marks to the victim’s face and corresponding red marks to his ex-girlfriend’s fist and thumb. They arrested the ex on

See KPD, Page 15

period. The renewal rate is based on an index plus a margin of 2.00%, 2.00% annual adjustment caps, a floor rate equal to the initial rate, and a 6.00% lifetime cap. Current Index is the 5 Yr. Treasury Security. Actual monthly payment may be higher, payment examples do not include applicable property taxes, fees, insurance premiums or other related costs. 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.

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Payment Example: $8.10 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000.00 15-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 5.375% will result in 180 payments of $810.47. Payment Example: $5.99 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000.00 30-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 5.990% will result in 360 payments of $598.91. Actual monthly payment may be higher because example does not include applicable property

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.

Belleville awarded significant Green-initiative grant yet again

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

The Township of Belleville was awarded $68,947 in Clean Communities grants from the state Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Solid Waste Division last month.

The grant is an increase from 2022, when Belleville received $61,740.

Clean Communities grants help municipalities and counties across New Jersey promote volunteer and paid clean-up events, purchase equipment, support enforcement activities and educational opportunities.

Belleville Mayor Michael A. Melham accepted a ceremonial check from the DEP at Kean University in Union, as part of a grand opening celebration of the New Jersey Clean Communities Council (NJCCC) office on the campus.

“When we work together to keep Belleville a clean community, it brings out the pride we all share in this great town,” Melham, who has served as a guest speaker for the NJCCC to share Belleville’s anti-litter programs, said. “We are grateful for the state funding and we will put it to good use making the town cleaner and greener.”

“Belleville has consistently been one of the top municipalities in the state in regard to fighting litter,” NJCCC Executive Director JoAnn Gemenden said. “We work closely with Belleville to ensure that state funds are continually maximized to develop and implement anti-litter education and programming in the township, as well as to coordinate local clean-ups.

“We are confident that Belleville will use the funding this year in a smart, strategic

way to further expand the Clean Communities mission.”

At the heart of Belleville’s efforts to be cleaner and greener are the men and women who work in the Department of Public Works (DPW), Melham said Led by Director Robert Welter, department personnel walk down Washington Avenue each day, picking up trash. They also maintain planters on Washington Avenue, watering the flowers that beautify the town.

The DPW also engages with the public on two annual cleanup projects and partners with schools on other events.

Welter said the grant from the NJDEP will help the department do even more.

“We typically put the grant money toward hiring some help for the summer to help clean up the parks and around places like Washington Avenue,” Welter said. “We also use the money to replace equipment that helps us keep Belleville looking good — equipment like weed whackers and leaf blowers.”

The work done by Welter and DPW personnel dovetails into the efforts by Belleville’s Green Team, which seeks to identify and implement projects that will benefit the

community and encourage the town, home and business owners to invest in sustainable practices.

“The Green Team couldn’t find a better partnership than with the DPW,” the Green Team’s Gabrielle Bennett-Meany said. “Together we have expanded on community outreach and educational programs for our community to participate in.”

Over the past year, the Green Team has hosted community cleanups, recycling and waste reduction and other beautification projects.

This year’s total DEP funding represents a nearly $2.7 million increase from last year.

In total, the NJDEP awarded $21.4 million to eligible municipalities and $2.7 million to counties across the state to conduct cleanups, educate the public and enforce litter-related laws and ordinances. Allocations are based on statistical reports that outline the number of housing units and municipally-owned roadway mileage in a respective area.

Grants are funded by a legislated user-fee on manufacturers, wholesalers and

See GRANT, Page 18

Ken Davie

Real Estate Let’s Talk

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maintenance costs, oversee building inspections, assist with planning and financing, provide property recommendations, and help the buyer evaluate all possible options.

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Mayor Michael Melham accepts Belleville’s 2023 Green Communities grant from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection’s Solid Waste Division. The grants is $6,000+ more than 2022.

OPINION & VIEWPOINTS

Dolan: Our world could use a lot more people like Janice Mathews

Devils-Flyers at Metlife Stadium will give local economy a huge boost

Ah yes, we haven’t even hit the Dog Days of Summer yet. So talking about winter sports may seem a little out of place, but this is something special.

The National Hockey League announced last week there will be two ourdoor games played in February at Metlife Stadium on consecutive nights. The first matchup, Feb. 17, features the New Jersey Devils and the Philadelphia Flyers and then it’ll be the New York Islanders and New York Rangers Feb. 18.

The Devils and the Islanders will be considered the “home” team in the games. And if history is any indicator, there will be two games on two days with crowds of 75,000+.

One weekend, 150,000 people — lots of money to be spent. And there won’t just be hockey that weekend. There will be events throughout the Jersey-centric weekend — called the Stadium Series by the NHL — all in the Garden State.

This has the potential to contribute incredibly to the economic picture in North Jersey, but especially to the Meadowlands area.

It has the potential to bring scores of people to our area, where fans will spend tons of money on merchandise, food, events and so much more.

It should be a tremendous benefit to many people here, despite the nightmare of what the traffic will be like.

We commend the NHL, but we especially commend the New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority for working with the NHL to make this concept a reality.

To the Editor: RE: The Observer’s story on Janice Mathews last week. What a heart-warming story! It made me happy knowing there is kindness out there. What are the chances Janice Mathews worked that particular evening? That four women and two men came to the Arlington Diner — that well enough before 10 p.m. — that particular evening? (Foodtown closes at 10 p.m. week-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

nights, 9 p.m. Sundays) then not take the money for what they purchased, drove her home, wrote those beautiful faith-filled words to her and a $50 gift card!

For her to be overwhelmed is putting it mildly. I’d call it a true miracle.

We need more “angels in

disguise” these days. Most of us would have been a bit leery to place so much trust in these four women and two men — I know I would have thought they were up to something or out to hurt me.

So I am glad Janice did not react the way I would have because she would have missed out on such a beautiful blessing.

Jo-Ann Dolan Kearny

To the Editor:

The New York Mets, by far the most expensive team ever put together, couldn’t hit the floor if they fell out of bed. If you read the box scores, they are outhit almost everyday mostly by teams with players who you never heard of, and

are making only a fraction of what the Mets highly over rated stars are taking home.

I know it isn’t in fashion to hold anyone responsible for what goes on anywhere these days, but for the return the Mets are getting on their investment, someone has to be

held accountable. And to think it could have been worse if they had signed Carlos Correa of the Minnesota Twins who is batting .208!

Armand Rose

North Arlington

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

n Classifieds: 3 p.m., Monday

n Obituaries: 10 a.m., Monday

Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Sports Writer

Robert P. Pezzolla

gm@theobserver.com General Manager

Kimberley Pezzolla

kimpezzolla@theobserver.com

Sales/Classifieds

We may be eight months away from that weekend, but the benefits of it all should make locals excited right now. —

n Display/Real Estate: noon, Thursday

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

CANESSA

Rose: The 2023 New York Mets are an unmitigated, overpaid disaster

Steering wheel locks available for free for Kearny drivers who own Hyundais & Kias thanks to new Kearny PD program

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

The Kearny Police Department is partnering with Hyundai to address the nationwide surge in vehicle thefts, specifically targeting Hyundai and Kia models. “Recent incidents have revealed an alarming rise in thefts across the country, attributed to a viral social media challenge,” Det. John Fabula said. “Recognizing the potential impact on our local community, we have joined forces with Hyundai to prevent any thefts of these vehicles and enhance overall safety nationwide.”

To avail themselves of this exclusive opportunity, Hyundai and Kia owners from Kearny are encouraged to visit the Kearny Police Department — 237 Laurel Ave. — during normal business hours, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Residents

will be required to provide proof of ownership, such as vehicle registration or insurance documentation, to verify eligibility and to receive a complimentary steering lock.

“The Kearny Police Department is committed to pro-actively addressing emerging threats to the security and well-being of our community members,” Fabula said. “Through our collaboration with Hyundai, we aim to provide effective solutions to mitigate the risk of vehicle thefts. As part of this initiative, we are pleased to offer complimentary steering locks to eligible Hyundai and Kia owners who reside in Kearny. The partnership between the Kearny Police Department and Hyundai highlights the collective effort to address a nationwide concern. We extend our sincere gratitude to Hyundai for their support and commitment to community safety.”

POLICE BEAT

With that said there are still steps the public may take to be proactive to help curtail thefts.

“We also want to stress to the public that leaving cars running, not locking them, leaving keys in cars overnight represents double the number of thefts to vehicles than any other types. We can’t say this enough — always lock your vehicles, never leave your car running, even for a minute and never leave keys or fobs inside vehicles.”

The locks will be distributed by the Detective Bureau on the second floor of Kearny Police Headquarters.

For more information, call the Kearny Police Department at (201) 998-1313, ext. 2833.

Kearny PD image Steering wheel locks have been made available, for free, to Kearny residents who own Kias and Hyundais. Proof of ownership is required.

June 14, 2023 Flag Day Celebrate

Commemorating the adoption of the flag of the United States which took place on June 14, 1777.

Whether it was hoisted into the air by six Marines at Iwo Jima, planted on the moon’s surface by two astronauts or unfurled by three firemen at Ground Zero, the American flag has been a beacon of hope and a symbol of what we can accomplish when we come together as a nation. LONG MAY SHE WAVE.

The red and white and starry blue is Freedom’s shield and hope. - John Philip Sousa

HAPPY FLAG DAY

from Mayor Alberto Santos and the Town of Kearny

Our township commemorates & honors our National Flag

HAPPY FLAG DAY

CELEBRATE AND HONOR

“When we honor our flag, we honor what we stand for as a Nation – freedom, equality, justice, and hope.”

Borough of North Arlington

Mayor Michael Melham Township of Belleville

SPORTS & HEALTH

Cruz-Fletcher takes gold in the Girls Triple Jump, leads strong Bloomfield showing in N1G4 sectionals

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Tozduman adds to legacy with two golds in North 2, Group 2 Championships

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

There aren’t too many things that Julia Tozduman hasn’t accomplished on the track in a high school career that still has more than a year remaining. But this past weekend at the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 championships in South Plainfield, Lyndhurst’s star junior found a way to continue raising the bar.

On Friday’s first day of the meet, Tozduman repeated

as North 2, Group 3 Triple Jump champion with a leap of 35-07.00. One day later, she returned to South Plainfield and won her first ever section title in the Long Jump with a jump of 17-04.75.

Two days, two gold medals, and a new standard set.

“Being the state sectional champion for both Long Jump and Triple was definitely something I was working towards all season long,” Tozduman said. “Being a double gold medalist is some-

thing I have worked towards since freshman year.”

Despite finishing ninth in the Long Jump at the Outdoor Meet of Champions last spring and fifth at the Indoor Meet of Champions this past March, Tozduman never won the state sectional in the event.

On Saturday, she did so with plenty of distance to spare, finishing a full six and a half inches ahead of runner up Amanda Dean of Parsip-

Angel Cruz-Fletcher knows firsthand the difficulty of mastering the triple jump. It took three years, but not only has the Bloomfield junior finally got the technique down pat, she is now excelling in the event.

On Friday in Clifton, Cruz-Fletcher became Bloomfield’s first ever girls sectional champion in the Triple Jump as she leaped 35-02.50 to win the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 1, Group 4 title.

Cruz-Fletcher, who hit the winning mark on her last jump, is the first Bengals girl to win a sectional title in any event since Kaela Edwards won the 55 Meter High Hurdles in the 2017-18 indoor season.

“We tried her out as a triple jumper as a freshman and sophomore and she just didn’t take to it,” Bloomfield head coach Terry Iavarone said. “This year, we tried again and she was increasing her PR almost each meet. Last week she got third in Essex County and we thought that if she can hopefully have the same jumps, she’ll have a chance to win it.”

Cruz-Fletcher, an accomplished sprinter and long jumper before, has made several strides in the triple

jump, highlighted by a personal best 36-1 in the Essex County Championships two weeks earlier.

“It really is a lot of focus, a lot of practice on the technique because you really have three different facets into this one event,” said Iavarone. “For the long jump you just have that one, but the triple jump, you have to get all three parts down. It’s very difficult, but once you get that down, which could

Photo courtesy of Kimberly Hykey, inset photo courtesy Rich Tuero

Photo courtesy Terry Iavarone Angel Cruz-Fletcher

TOZDUMAN

Continued from Page 9

The Long Jump title capped off a busy weekend for Tozduman. Shortly after winning the Triple Jump on Friday, she had to get ready for her newest event, the High Jump. Tozduman, who is competing in the event for the first time this spring, responded with

CRUZ-FLETCHER

Continued from Page 9

take years, you have something very special.”

As impressive as Cruz-Fletcher’s performance was, perhaps the most

a personal best of 5-0, which was good enough for third place and qualifies her for the overall Group 2 championships next weekend at Delsea High School.

“I tried High Jump in the beginning of the season because our high jump relay needed a third member for the Aviator Relays,” said Tozduman. “I ended up clearing 4-10 and loved the event. From that moment on, I’d train for it and compete

impressive part about the weekend was the quantity of athletes that qualified for next weekend’s Group 4 championships next Friday and Saturday at Franklin High School.

In total, six different Bengals won individual

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at meets in the high jump.

“I was so excited to qualify in High Jump because it shows how hard I have been working towards it.”

Tozduman isn’t the only Golden Bear who qualified in three events for the Group 2 Championships. Teammate Kayla Carrino continued a stellar senior season by placing third in the 800 Meter Run (2:26.93) and 3200 Meter Run (11:40.71) as well as sixth in the

medals Sophomore Mercedes Cruz-Fletcher took third place in the 100 Meter Hurdles with a time of 15.54 and Albina Frangu finished third in the Shot Put with a throw of 34-04.50.

Samyah Wilson finished fourth in the 100 Meter Dash (12.90) and Bloomfield advanced two in the Discus as Sarah Hartland took fifth (101-08.00) and Kaitlyn Toro took sixth (99-06.00). Also advancing is the 4x800 Meter Relay team of Ashley Toro, Kaitlyn Adams, Olivia Adams and Audrey McLaughlin, which took fifth with a time

1600 Meter Run.

Sophomore Yasemin Ugurlu also medalled in two events, taking second in the Javelin with a throw of 114-02.00 and fourth in the Triple Jump at 34-04.00. Another sophomore, Asya Akar took sixth in the Discus with a throw of 9009.00.

As a team Lyndhurst took fifth place in the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2 team standings.

of 10:16.27.

As a team, Bloomfield took fifth in the team standings.

“This is probably our best overall girls team, at least in memory, for the girls side absolutely,” Iavarone said. “It’s probably the biggest contingent we’re taking to the next level for the group championships.”

Bloomfield will also have a heavy contingent on the boys side as well. Cristian Armstrong placed third in the Triple Jump at 43-04.25 and reigning Essex County champion Charles Lisa finished fifth in the Pole Vault

On the boys side, Lyndhurst had four different medalists who are moving on to the Group 2 championships next weekend. Two of those qualifiers were in the High Jump as Rilwan Olunlade placed third with a jump of 5-10.00 and Jose Baca took fourth at 5-08.00. Anthony Santana finished third in the Long Jump at 2006.00 and Tyler Wise finished sixth in the 400 Meter Dash at 51.15.

at 12-00.00. Kalel Deimedici took sixth in the 400 Meter Hurdles with a time of 57.52 and Christopher Francois Jr. placed sixth in the Discus with a throw of 133-01.00.

In addition, the 4x400 Meter Relay team of Armstrong, James Fields, Deimedici and Nathaniel Brown took sixth with a time of 3:24.98.

Kearny also had two Group 4 qualifiers on the girls side as Gabriela Pifano took fourth in the Discus with a throw of 105-06.00 and Kaela Cicchino finished sixth in the 1600 Meter Run with a time of 5:28.80.

Dr. Prakash J. Doshi

Dr. Hector Aguilar

pany.

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

Harrison, Bloomfield advance to boys volleyball sectional finals

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

At a time when most teams are in the physical and mental grind of the state tournament, Harrison’s boys volleyball team got a chance to rest.

Due to earning a first round bye in the NJSIAA North Jersey, Group 1 Tournament, the Blue Tide went 10 days without a match between their Hudson County final against Kearny and their first state game, a quarterfinal against Montclair Immaculate. According to Harrison head coach Nick Landy.

“I think we were a little bit beat up, a little bit tired. I think it gave our bodies a little bit of a rest,” said Landy. “That week before where we played Kearny, then McNair, North Bergen and Kearny in the Hudson County Tournament. That was like enough volleyball for two weeks. That was a lot of work. I think we were able to use that time off to help us out.”

The benefits of such a break were on display when the top-seeded Blue Tide swept Montclair Immaculate 25-16, 25-9 in the quarterfinals this past Wednesday on May 31. Two days later, Harrison knocked off NJIC rival Bergen Charter for the third time this year with a 25-17, 25-15 victory, extending its winning streak to 13.

n the two wins, Guilherme Queiroz had 16 kills, while Adrian Jimenez and Adrian Vivanco added 12 and 10 respectively.

Jose De La Cruz had 38 assists with 17 digs, Anthony Narvaez added seven digs and against Bergen Charter, Luiz Silva added three kills with two blocks.

The Blue Tide, ranked No. 4 in the state, will take a 27-2 record into Wednesday’s North Jersey, Group 1 final when it hosts second-seeded Passaic Charter on Wednesday, June 7 at 4:30 p.m.

Harrison is considered the favorite to come away with a third state sectional champion and a

win would send the Blue Tide to the Group 1 state final against the McNair-St. John Vianney winner on Saturday at South Brunswick High School.

But while a state championship has been one of Harrison’s goals since the start of practice, Landy isn’t ready to look ahead that far.

Said Landy, “I always tell them we have to look at the match that’s facing us, not the next match (after).”

Also, on Wednesday, Bloomfield (17-8) will be vying for a North Jersey, Group 4 title when it hosts fifth-seeded Bridgewater-Raritan.

The Bengals had one of their best performances of the season on Friday, when it swept a strong Westfield team, 25-15, 25-19 behind six kills and five blocks from sophomore middle block Desmond Comer. Senior outside hitter Esaias Edwards had six kills with five digs, Ellis Gomez-McPherson added three kills with four blocks, and Jacob Moreno chipped in 16 assists with six digs.

Two days earlier, Bloomfield outlasted West Orange, 25-17, 23-25, 25-19, as Moreno had 36 assists and Comer and Edwards added 13 and eight kills respectively.

Wednesday’s final could prove to be Bloomfield’s greatest challenge as Bridgewater-Raritan, ranked No. 11 in the state, reached the final by sweeping a Livingston team that defeated the Bengals three times this season. The winner will face the winner of the South Jersey, Group 4 final between No. 1 ranked Old Bridge and No. 3 Southern.

In North Jersey, Group 3, Kearny’s season came to an end when it suffered a 25-18, 25-18 defeat at Randolph in the quarterfinals. Nutley also saw its historic season come to an end as it lost to Ramapo, 25-21, 25-15 in the North Jersey, Group 2 quarterfinals to finish 20-5.

Photo by Jason Bernstein

Harrison Cancer League raises $14K at tricky tray

The Harrison Cancer League raised more than $14,000 at its April tricky tray, organizers say.

Recently, the league hosted it major fundraiser at OLC Church for Earth Day with more than 180 people in attendance.

Some 200 baskets were raffled.

Shelly Mulrenan, vice president of the Harrison Cancer

League and chairwoman of the event, was thrilled with the overwhelming generosity of the community in support of the event.

Donations also came from local businesses, other charitable organizations and individuals.

Joan Michaelson, president, says the Harrison Cancer League is in its 51st year, provides direct support to Harrison families who are battling

cancer, with necessities such as rent/mortgage payments, food, gas/electric bills, etc.

“We provide an annual scholarship to a high school student or students of Harrison and East Newark who are seeking to further their education in the medical field,” Michaelson said. “We have donated a treatment chair to St. Michael’s Medical Center in Newark. We are partnering with St.

Michael’s to provide breast screenings to the uninsured women from Harrison and East Newark. We participate annually in the Valerie Fund Walk in Verona and we make contributions to other organizations.

“It takes a village is an expression that means many people must cooperate to achieve a goal. Usually quoting ‘it takes a village’ is used to

indicate that one is acknowledging other people’s role in the success of a project. In this instance, the village behind tonight’s event is you and your love of the Harrison Cancer League.”

Those interested in learning more about the Harrison Cancer League or becoming a member may contact league by writing to P.O. Box 741, Harrison, N.J. 07029.

Belleville man, 48, dies in tragic jet ski collision

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

A48-year-old Belleville man died May 27 as the result of the crash of

two jet skis in the Hudson River in Upstate New York, the New York State Police said.

According to the NYSP, another man, of Saddle -

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brook, was operating a jet ski with a passenger, and a resident of Lodi was also operating a second jet ski with a passenger. Both were traveling north along the Hudson River in Newburgh, New York, when they collided.

As a result of the collision, Sanchez, a passenger on one of the skis, was thrown from it to into the Hudson.

Boaters at the local marina treated all four of the aforementioned men and two were later taken to St. Luke ’ s Hospital. It was

there that Sanchez ultimately succumbed to his injuries. The NYSP made it clear alcohol did not play any part in the crash.

The NYSP continues to investigate the incident.

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

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

OBITUARIES

Jennie Donovitch

Jennie Donovitch, (nee Turre), 95, died peacefully on Thursday, May 25, 2023, while surrounded by her loving family at home in Kearny.

A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s R.C. Church, Kearny. Interment was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. The Thiele-Reid Family Funeral Home, Kearny, was in charge.

Jennie was born in Harrison to James and Maria Turre on May 4, 1928. She will be remembered as a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Some of her favorite things in life were spending time with her grandchildren at the Jersey Shore and cooking for her family and friends. Jennie was an avid walker, taking daily walks around town and never too shy to converse with her neighbors as she was an amazing soul.

Jennie was predeceased in death by her loving husband, Joseph Donovitch. She is survived by her children, Stanley Donovitch, Diane Fixter and devoted son-in-law, Bob Fixter; grandchildren Bobby Fixter, and his spouse Michelle Fixter, Beth Alvarez and her spouse Billy Alvarez, Brian Fixter and his spouse Lauren Fixter. She also leaves her great-grandchildren, Kayla, Owen, Emma, Liam and Wescott along with many loving nieces nephews and friends.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to the Pheonix Center, 16 Monsignor Owens Place, Nutley, N.J. 07110 http:// thephoenixcenternj.org

The family of Jennie Donovitch wishes to extend its sincere thanks to Dr. Edward Killilea for taking great care of Jennie.

Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Smith

Elizabeth “Betty” Smith (nee Burns), 86, died Saturday, May 27, 2023 in Paramus.

A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s R.C. Church, Kearny. Interment was Holy Name Cemetery in Jersey City. The Thiele-Reid Family Funeral Home, Kearny, was in charge.

Betty was born in Jersey City to Timothy and Elizabeth Burns on Aug. 20, 1936. She lived in Kearny for over 50 years before moving to Paramus four years ago.

A faithful member of St. Stephen’s R.C. Church, she will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Her happiest times were spent surrounded by her family. Her favorite hobby was fishing along with her husband. She especially enjoyed when her children and grandchildren joined them on their boat, “The Lucky 7.”

Betty was predeceased by her loving husband, Francis Smith and brother, John Burns. She is survived by her children, Elizabeth Ann Chieffo (John), Thomas Smith (Linda), Frances Connolly (Michael), James Smith (Christine), Edward Smith (Cathy), Carolyn Maguire (Robert) and Teresa Corso (Roy); her grandchildren, Jason Smith (Kelly), Kara Connor (Kevin), Brittany Smith, Stephen Chieffo (Amy), Joseph Chieffo, Robert Maguire, Kyle

Connolly, Justin Smith, Amanda Maguire, Nadine Smith and Roy Corso Jr. and her great-grandchildren, Liam and Fiona Smith. She is also survived by her brothers, Timothy Burns and Edward Burns and by her sister, Patricia Course. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Judes Children’s Hospital or Autism Speaks

Claire Marie Yakabofski Claire Marie Yakabofski, 81, of Kearny, died June 1, 2023.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation for Marie at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove

A Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary (Never Known to Fail)

O Most Beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me here. You my Mother, O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succor me in my necessity: (make request) There are non that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 Times). Say this prayer 3 consecutive days then you must publish and it will be granted to you. N.M.

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Drive, Kearny, on Tuesday June 6 from 4-8 p.m. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Cecilia Church in Kearny Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

Born in Kearny, Marie was a lifelong resident. She helped operate Pathways to Independence in Kearny for over 40 years. She was also a past member of the Kearny Democrats and President of the Rotary Club from 2005 to 2006. A sweet woman with a heart

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

of gold, Marie was selfless. No one had a bad word to say about her. She most cherished time spent caring for her family.

Predeceased by her parents James and Claire Marshall, Marie was the beloved wife of the late Ben Yakabofski; loving mother of Mark and Glenn Yakabofski; dear sister of Butch Marshall and his wife June Buchanan; and special aunt to Christopher Marshall and his wife Amanda, Nich -

See OBITS, Page 19

Mulligan Funeral Home

331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison

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

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visit us at: www.mulliganfh.com

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

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

Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home 596 Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032

(201) 991-0657

USNA

Continued from Page 3

and even having us drive him to USNA seminars, and down to Annapolis several times.”

encouraged him

to find out what it took to get in.”

Getting in? Well, let’s just say it’s ultra-competitive. In fact, recent figures show only 7% of all applicants are admitted.

“But he worked hard those three years of high school,” mom says. “Maintaining an ‘A’ average in all his rigorous coursework, being part of athletic teams at Kearny High School (varsity swim and captain of the men’s crew team), doing community service, playing bagpipes

As competitive as the acceptance process is, so, too, is the application.

In fact, “the application itself took about two years to complete, and it entails not only essays and the usual applications, but he had to pass a Candidate Fitness Assessment and receive at least one nomination from a member of Congress,” mom says.

In November of his Junior year at his last candidate visit weekend in Annapolis, he was called up to the stage by the Superintendent of the

Naval Academy, Vice Adm. Sean Buck, and was awarded a Letter of Assurance. Only about 3% of all applicants receive this letter, which

states the Naval Academy wants to have him as a midshipman — but he must first be medically qualified by the Department of Defense and gather his nomination from a member of Congress.

In December of that year, Mikael not only received a nomination from U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, D-9, but he also received one from U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez, D-Harrison. Once he was cleared by the Department of Defense, he received his appointment to the Naval Academy earlier this year, Jan. 12 to be precise.

“Mikael has been dedicated and always focused on helping and serving others,”

Josie says. “That’s why I know he will make an excellent Midshipman and future Ensign. Both (dad) Mike and I are beaming with pride and are humbled and honored he chose this difficult path. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for him at the Naval Academy. Whatever it is, I know that he will be successful and will make anyone proud to have him serving our country in the United States Navy.”

Mikael will study aerospace engineering come the fall and he hopes to become a Naval aviator.

He will have to serve eight years after designation, plus two years of flight school.

KPD

Continued from Page 4

a simple assault charge. She was later released with a summons.

On May 22 at 5:22 p.m., Officers Chris Medina, Ellesse Ogando and Sgt. Jack Grimm responded to Marshalls store where a loss-prevention associate accused Joselyn A. Gutierres, 24, of Newark, of shoplifting $205.84 worth of clothing and lingerie.

Officers charged Gutierres with shoplifting and later released her with a summons.

On May 23 at 5:06 p.m., Officers Alvaro Goncalves, Chris Medina, Travis Witt and Sgt. Jack Grimm were sent to a domestic dispute at a residence. A 38-year-old crying resident met the officers and complained her 45-year-old boyfriend had kicked her in the back of her thighs and pulled her hair during an argument.

Finding the victim in pain, officers arrested the boyfriend for simple assault.

He was later released with a summons.

On May 25 at 11:47 a.m., Officers Mat Lopez and Paul Duran were dispatched to Walmart where several employees were following an alleged shoplifter. When confronted by officers near the exit doors, the accused thief allegedly dropped his shopping bags to the floor.

Store staff advised cops those bags contained $153.67 worth of merchandise stolen from the store. The officers also seized a glass crack pipe from a cigarette pack on the suspect’s person.

The suspect was later identified as William H. Minitee, 50, of Newark, who was held at the Hudson County Jail on charges of shoplifting and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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The West Hudson Arts & Theater Company (WHATCo) is bringing the Bard to West Hudson.

In a unique collaboration with the Teaneck New Theatre (TNT) in association with the Hackensack Performing Arts Center (HACPAC), WHATCo will present Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “Othello” this summer with outdoor performances at HACPAC. Then in September, performances will return to the WHATCo stage in Harrison marking the first production in our area of these classic works in recent memory.

The opportunity to work with HACPAC was presented to TNT President and WHATCo Artistic Adviser Beatriz Esteban-Messina, who recognized sharing resources and introducing new performers could be valuable to both theaters.

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“It’s an amazing opportunity and completely aligns with our ongoing commitment to bring new and dynamic events to our West Hudson audiences,” Esteban-Messina, who will also be directing Othello, said.

The undertaking has prompted WHATCo to create and launch several new initiatives surrounding the performances here in West Hudson.

Since the collaboration has been underwritten in whole by HACPAC’s annual Shakespeare in the Park series, WHATCo will implement a special “Pay What You Choose” ticketing structure for its September performances.

“It’s our mission to ensure that live theater is available to everyone in our community. For some, these productions may be their first experience with a live Shakespearean perfor-

Continued on the next page

KEARNY N.ARLINGTON

Continued from previous page

mance,” WHATCo President Brandi-Leigh Miller said.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream director and WHATCo Board member Matt Masiello said, “to fully appreciate Shakespeare, it’s best to see the plays live on stage … and most students in our area only study his plays out of books.”

For its September run, WHATCo will reach out to middle and high schools in East Newark, Harrison and Kearny to provide a variety of correlative education tools including lesson plans and activities for classroom use to complement its West Hudson performances as well as incentives for students to attend the production.

WHATCo will also launch a new “Education Spotlight” series during the local performances, which will serve as primers that will not only be short power-packed synopses of the plays at the WHATCo theater, but that will also highlight significant themes, discuss ties to pop culture and identify recognizable quotes.

“We know that Shakespeare can be intimidating, so we want to give our audiences both background and context to help them enjoy the performance even more,” Miller said. “It might even give those familiar with the Bard an opportunity to share knowledge or learn new fun facts.”

Production dates at HACPAC, 102 State St., Hackensack, are July 12, 19 and 26 for “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and Aug. 9 and 16 for “Othello.” All outdoor performances are at 7:30 p.m. Performances at the WHATCo Theater, 15 Frank E. Rodgers Boulevard S., Harrison, are set for Sept. 23, 24, 29 and 30.

GRANT

Continued from Page 4

distributors that produce litter-generating products.

“Local litter abatement

programs are more important than ever as we strive to prevent roadway litter from getting into our waterways,”

Gemenden said. “Clean Communities grants provide local governments with critical

funds to help create a Litter Free NJ.”

NJCCC operates public awareness campaigns to educate the public, primarily youth, about the adverse environmental impacts of litter,

especially on waterways.

The organization also helped facilitate the transition away from single-use plastic and paper bags with its Litter Free NJ campaign, using public service announcements

and other outreach to remind residents to bring their own reusable bags when shopping, and to recycle plastic bags. These efforts have helped to significantly reduce the amount of plastic pollution in the state by an estimated 8 billion single-use bags per year. Litter comes from many sources, such as people who carelessly toss away their trash, overflowing and uncovered garbage cans and construction sites. Litter is often dispersed by the wind and carried into stormwater collection systems, where it can clog drains causing flooding, harm wildlife and degrade the quality of the state’s surface waters.

Knights hosting b-day BBQ June 20 at Club Hall

To celebrate the 72nd anniversary of serving God, country and church and the local community, the Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus will host a BBQ Tuesday, June 20, at 6 p.m., at the Columbian Club Hall.

On the menu are hot dogs, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, sausage (hot and sweet), lemon-peppered chicken, potato and macaroni salad, pickles, refreshments and dessert.

The Knights will offer gluten-free hot dogs, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, sausages and lemon-peppered chicken cooked on a dedicated grill.

The cost is $25 per adult and $15 for kids under 12.

Reservations must be made by calling (201) 988-0183 by Thursday, June 15.

CORPUS

Continued from Page 1

to us in the Eucharist at Mass. The Corpus Christi procession is one of a number of ways that we express our devotion to Christ. A procession of the Blessed Sacrament involves the priest carrying the consecrated Host in a special container called the Monstrance. Parishioners will follow singing hymns and praying together.

Q: Why should one participate in the Corpus Christi procession?

Fr. Joe: The annual procession on the feast of Corpus Christi has a special importance and meaning for the pastoral life of the parish and the town. When the Eucharist is carried through the street in a solemn procession, our parishioners not only will follow behind singing hymns and praying together in a public witness of our faith in Jesus Christ’s presence with us, but it will also be an opportunity for us to pray for the local community and its needs.

Q: What is the National Eucharistic Revival all about?

Fr. Joe: The National Eu-

OBITS

Continued from Page 13

olas Marshall, Tim Sherry, Carrie Buchanan, Elizabeth Buchanan and Coleen Rossi and her husband Dean. She was also the adoring greataunt of Ryan, Gianna, Nina and Tate.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations made in her name to Pathways to Independence, 60 Kingsland Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032.

charistic Revival, sponsored by the U.S. Catholic bishops, began a three-year initiative in 2022 beginning with the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, or Corpus Christi, and has as its mission to “renew the Church by enkindling a living relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist.”

Sponsored by the U.S. bishops, the revival aims to inspire people to encounter Jesus in the Eucharist.

Mary M. Gleason

Mary M. Gleason (nee Mulraney) died May 28, 2023 at the age of 91.

Born at 39E Kippen St., Airdrie, Scotland, to James and Hannah Mulraney (nee Kerr), Mary immigrated to the United States in 1952, arriving in Newark, where she met her husband, Edmund Gleason, at a dance at McGovern’s before settling in Kearny for the duration of their 53 year marriage.

Mary moved to the Job Haines Home in Bloomfield in 2012.

A licensed beautician, Mary worked at the Chantry Salon

The Eucharistic Revival aims to inspire, educate and unite. In a world where not many people know Jesus intimately, the revival is meant to show everyone what wonders the true presence of Jesus can do to heal the soul. Through a carefully planned timeline of events, after three years, the U.S. bishops hope to change the lives of many Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

Q: Why are the U.S. bishops

in Bamberger’s, Newark, and later Shear Magic, Kearny. As a licensed realtor, Mary worked for Borgos and Borgos, Kearny, and in retirement as an aide in Garfield School, Kearny.

Mary gave her time to many organizations, most specifically the Literacy Volunteers of America and West Hudson Hospital for more than 20 years, the last 10 of which she spent volunteering in the LongTerm Care Unit. A talented artist, Mary was also known for her world-renowned shortbread.

Mary was predeceased by her

faith — his Real Presence in the Holy Eucharist.”

It’s a time to confront the hardships that face people in everyday life. The National Eucharistic Revival is a powerful, uplifting way to rise to this challenge.

Q: How does the Eucharistic Revival work at the parish level?

doing this?

Fr. Joe: Great question. The current world is hurting and straying far from God. According to Pew Research Center, only 31% of Catholics even believe in the true presence of Christ in the Eucharist. It is up to that 31% to spread the truth to all. As the revival website says, “We all need healing, yet many of us are separated from the very source of our strength. Jesus Christ invites us to return to the source and summit of our

husband, Edmund R. Gleason Jr., sons Michael E. Gleason and Brian J. Gleason (Hyunmi Im), an infant daughter, Patricia Gleason, her sister, Anne Tierney Armitt and brother, James Mulraney.

Mary is survived by her children, Ann Dowie (John), Kathleen Dwiatek (Richard), Thomas Gleason (Laura) and Peter Gleason (Meghan). Mary was “Nana” to Catherine Dowie (EJ Harris), Jonathan Dowie (Rebecca), Ryan Dwiatek (Kelsey Heckmann), Erica Dwiatek, Sydney Gleason, Reilly Gleason and Dylan Gleason.

Fr. Joe: On the Solemnity of Corpus Christi this year, June 11, 2023, we will be begin the parish Eucharistic Revival year (June 2023-July 2024). This year promises to be an impactful phase of the multi-year response. For the Eucharistic Revival to be successful, parishes must fulfill their key role in boldly proclaiming the Gospel. The purpose of the Year of Parish Revival is to discern how we might “heal, form, convert, unify and send” our parishioners through a “rekindled relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist.”

Thank you Fr. Joe for your time and we look forward to hearing more about the initiative in the coming year.

Fr Joe: Thank you for taking the time to hear about the Solemnity of Corpus Christi and the exciting initiative on the Eucharistic Revival.

Mary is also survived by her brother, David Mulraney, sisterin-law, Maureen Mulraney and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A memorial service will take place Saturday, June 24, 2023, at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., followed by a Mass at St. Cecilia R.C. Church, 120 Kearny Ave., Kearny, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the New Jersey State Library Talking Book & Braille Center (TBBC) or to the charity of your choice.

Contributed photo

An overhead look at the interior of St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny, at a previous Corpus Christi Sunday liturgy.

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